FRONTRUNNER Philippines

 

 

 

 

Four Lakes 100k and Old Spanish Trail 50k Trail Ultramarathon

Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines

 

http://www.ultratrailmb.com/

Qualifying Race for 2016 UTMB, 3 Points

 

 

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

Start: Kayapa Town Hall 

Finish: Kayapa Central School

Date and Time: March 28, 4:00 AM – March 29, 2014, 8:00 AM 

Race Briefing, Drop Bag Collection and Race Kit distribution: 2:00 PM, March 27 Kayapa Central School*

*(A duly-signed and -accomplished medical certificate not older than fifteen days from date of issuance(Med Cert) must be submitted in hard copy(NO soft copies, in any form, will be accepted) upon claiming of race kits. Failure to do so will mean non-inclusion in the race without the benefit of a refund. There will be no exemptions.)

 

 

REGISTRATION PROCEDURE

• Bank Deposit: Bank of the Philippine Islands 2379 0362 39 under the account name of Constante C Mendoza Jr
• Write name and shirt size(Asian sizing) AND qualifying race on the deposit slip, scan and email deposit slip to frontrunnermag@gmail.com (Subject: 2015 FL100 or OST50)
• Foreigners may pay their fees through http://www.ultrasignup.com
• NO slot reservation allowed
• 

 

 

REGISTRATION FEES

• 100k: PHP 3500.00 for locals / USD 100.00 for foreign entrants (Inclusive of TrailFees, Pre-race Snacks and Post-race Meal, Event Long-sleeves Shirt and Finisher’s Shirt, Medal and Trophy)
• 50k: PHP 2000.00 (for locals) / USD 60.00 for foreign entrants (Inclusive of Trail Fees, Pre-race Snacks and Post-race Meal, Event Long-sleeves Shirt and Finisher’s Shirt, Medal and Trophy)
• Foreign runners may register through http://www.ultrasignup.com
• Registration starts on NOVEMBER 1, 2014 and on March 16, 2015. There will be no extensions. 
• No slot reservations allowed.
• No event-switching(downgrading of distance) is allowed once the race is in progress. It is allowed only and strictly BEFORE gun start.
• THERE WILL BE NO TRANSFER OF ENTRY FEES(event or person) AND NO REFUNDS(full or partial).  “Finally – please remember that there will be NO refunds – NO transfers – NO exceptions. Do not ask for a refund or a transfer to another date or event – the answer is a polite NO. There will be no refunds even if your cat ate your homework or your dog ate your cat or your grandmother ran over your dog or your grandfather ran over your grandmother or you can’t find a babysitter or your girlfriend is cheating on you or you are cheating on your girlfriend or you get shot in the head during an unfortunate piñata incident, or if you become injured or if you don’t have time to train or if you contract poison oak, syphilis, herpes simplex, chapped lips, or any other communicable disease or you get bit by a lizard, you have a hangover or you got shot in the neck with a poison dart or your trailer gets destroyed by a tornado or you get deported or your daughter gets married, or any other reason – your registration will not, under any circumstances, no way, no how, ain’t gonna happen, be refunded. Comprende? Don’t like that idea? Don’t register.” – Luis Escobar of Born to Run Ultra Marathons in California

 

ENTRY GUIDELINES

(adapted from Hardrock Hundred and edited to suit local conditions)

1. FL prospects must have finished, within the official cutoff time, at least one 50-kilometer or more ultramarathon*(road or trail) in the inclusive period indicated, February 2013 – May 22, 2015. Results must be verifiable in the internet. For OST, at least one road or trail marathon finished officially.

*Fat Ass 24-hour event results are acceptable for as long as the participant finished at least 50 kilometers(the more, the better) in 10 hours or less. Results must be verifiable in the internet.

*Multi-sport official finishes regardless of distance covered are NOT acceptable

*Official Finish at the 2013-2014 Clark-Miyamit 50 Miles Ultra(CM50)

2.   Participant must be 18 years of age at the time of the event.

3.   Official finishers of 2013-2014 Pulag and Four Lakes 100 and Old Spanish Trail 80 are automatic qualifiers.

4.   Previous Official Finishers of H1, regardless of the year, are automatic qualifiers.

 

 

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

2012: 

2013:

2014:

 

 

 

COURSE RECORDS

FOUR LAKES 100k: Matthieu Rabiller(FRANCE), 13:35:10(2014)

FOUR LAKES 100(Women): Katja Fink (SWITZERLAND), 19:57:55(2013)

 OLD SPANISH TRAIL 50k: N/A

 OLD SPANISH TRAIL 50k(Women): N/A

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VK9axymIEfU&feature=plcp

 

 

THE RACE

If you want freedom and love the outdoors, this race is for you. If you want solitude, serenity, peace and quiet, this is it.

NO FRILLS. Just lifetime memories, bliss and blisters, and a peaceful, easy feeling. Personal satisfaction guaranteed.

Here, you don’t have to worry about toxic car fumes, bully drivers and incessant car horns blowing in your face. There are no man-made obstacles to obstruct your path. Instead, indulge in an all-natural setting which offers fresh, unpolluted air, majestic views of pine tree-filled mountains, vegetable gardens set in terraces, switchbacks, open, single track trails, and rocks, fallen pine trees and slippery trails that will serve as natural obstacles. Cliché as it may sound, you only have the sounds of the wind, your footsteps and breathing, and insects to provide the melody as you go along.

Here, you breathe the natural scent of pine trees and free yourself from the confines of a cramped, artificially pine-scented, air freshener-filled car whose smell seemingly clings eternally to your clothes, and choking smog, you get to relive your lost youth and once again, embrace the wide and open world, and yesteryears you once truly enjoyed.

WHILE WE WILL EXERT EFFORTS TO MAINTAIN THE CLEANLINESS AND PRE-RACE CONDITION OF THE ROUTE, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT EACH PARTICIPANT DO HIS OWN SHARE BY BEING A RESPONSIBLE TRAIL RUNNER. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THE ADAGE, TAKE NOTHING BUT PICTURES AND LEAVE NOTHING BUT FOOTPRINTS.

Not only will the organizers and locals truly appreciate your efforts but also Mother Nature herself. Be kind to everyone and everything along the path.

And for a better appreciation of trail running etiquette, you may want to look at this link; http://baldrunner.com/2012/01/18/trail-running-101-part-2-rules-on-the-run/.

And where else can this trailblazing endurance event be appropriately held but in a town aptly named, KAYAPA!

Experience sweet, uncomplicated satisfaction right here. It’s time to feed your senses.

 

 

CUTOFF TIMES

• 100k: 8:00 AM, March 29(28:00:00 hours)/CUTOFF 1 @ Kayapa Proper East Market ~35k (8:00:00 hours)   CUTOFF 2 @ DAYAP Aid Station ~ 56k (14:00:00 hours)
• 50k: 6:00 PM, March 29(14:00:00 hours)/CUTOFF 1 @ Kayapa Proper East Market ~35k (8:00:00 hours)   

 

 

THE ROUTE

For technical data, additional references and race reports;

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/320314627#.UafQWbWkLvM.facebook  Old Spanish Trail 65

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/318667029 Four Lakes 100

http://jon-ultra.blogspot.com/2013/05/four-lakes-100k-race-report.html

http://anappetiteforrunning.wordpress.com/2013/06/13/four-lakes-100km-race-day/

notes to four lakes 100k/old spanish trail 60k

https://www.facebook.com/notes/leslie-ho/four-lakes-100-ultramarathon-kayapa-philippines-25-may-2013/10151380932626594

 

 

ROUTE MAPS

 

 

Race Route on youtube(by Jacob Ong)

Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O44YqmM-ok0&noredirect=1

Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Q-Sn6Udpg8

 

 

(Elevation Profile and Race Photos by KOTM participants Aldean Lim, Rodelyn Guidaben, George Javier, Leslie Ho, Lai Fong Sang, Yim Heng Fatt, Jun Kagaoan)

The race starts at the Kayapa Town Hall (1121 masl) and ends at the Kayapa Central School.

For the 100k event, there will be four summits and four lakes to conquer, not to mention endless climbs and descents. The 50k event passes through the picturesque Old Spanish Trail.

Runners start by heading towards the trailhead in Talecabcab(photos by joe/edith salazar, toto mina, jun kagaoan and cheryl bihag. thanks!) and proceed farther and pass through a mix of dirt/gravel/muddy(if rainy) roads and intermittent stretches of concrete tire paths with views of vegetable gardens. The intial section is an eight-kilometer ascent towards Indupit.

Natural spring water is our ONLY water supply source (it’s the town’s, too!) so if it is not your thing, make sure to bring your own water or tablet purifier.

PLEASE MIND YOUR TRASH AT ALL TIMES. And to further reduce trash, NO cups of any kind will be available in any of the water stations. All runners are advised to bring their own cups. Garbage bags will also be available in each water station. It won’t take too much of an effort to drop your trashes into it properly, thank you.

In some sections of the route, runners will run along single track slippery trails covered with leaves, pine tree needles and cones, and under canopies of trees. Beware of the grounds which barely see sunshine due to the heavy overhead foliage. The ground and rocks are full of moss(hence, the name) which makes them slippery. Also, beware of hanging overgrowth of vines, ferns, bamboos and other forest plants, protruding roots, loose rocks and ravines cleverly covered by thick forest growth. AND MAKE SURE TO CHECK YOUR LEGS FOR BLOOD-SUCKING CREATURES (limatik, small but very terrible). Simply remove them and clean with antiseptic or rub with salt. It sometimes gets messy but no need to worry. This is true when it is raining.

Slower runners are advised to step aside for overtaking runners. And since this is an open, public trail, you will meet a few locals and day hikers along the route as well. Take time to greet them. PRACTICE TRAIL COURTESY. There will be dogs, wild pigs, goats, cows and horses, too. Be careful.

You shall be passing through gates so please close them after going through each time, thank you.

The climb ends where the INDUPIT JUNCTION/ANSIPSIP foot trail is and starts (1866 masl). Proceed to the next landmark.

Next landmark is BUNDAO (1835 masl, ~10 kilometers) which is marked by 2 structures, a shed and house.

BUNDAO is where the FIRST aid station will be located. Trail food will be available. The open, flat, single track trails stretch farther ahead and the views get only better. It’s pine trees and super nice views galore onwards.

BUNDAO station is your LAST aid station until you reach SADDLE/DOMOLPOS station (~7 kilometers of trails away) so it is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that you fill up your bladders/bottles and eat.

Next landmark will be the ANSIPSIP WAITING SHED/ELEMENTARY SCHOOL marker (1935 masl, 15 kilometers). More mountain side, open, flat, single track trails greet the runner. There will be lots of downhill running and switchbacks here as well, and the summit turnaround will be seen from here for as long as no fog will obstruct the view. As usual, ultra nice trails to die for.

DOMOLPOS Village (1700 masl) where locals reside, is the next landmark. From here, runners run up a single track trail until the SADDLE.

SADDLE/DOMOLPOS WAITING SHED JUNCTION (1763 masl, ~ kilometers) is where the SECOND aid station is located. At this junction, spring water/trail food will be served. It is advised that runners refill and eat. A very appropriate message is written on the shed’s wall. Be sure to take time to read it. Can’t miss, the shed is painted in pink.

From the aid station above, runners will proceed for about 3 kilometers towards the LUSOD AREA/BACUYAN JUNCTION (marked, 1770 masl, ~ kilometers) via a single track trail. At BACUYAN, make a sharp left turn towards the MT. UGO SUMMIT MARKER via a 2-kilometer climb.

MT. UGO SUMMIT MARKER(2170 masl,~ kilometers) is where a marshal shall record the names or bib numbers and times of each runner. You may want to take your picture at the marker. This is the FIRST SUMMIT.

From the summit, runners will proceed towards the SADDLE/DOMOLPOS WAITING SHED exit via a steep downhill dotted with switchbacks for another 2 kilometers, refill or eat again at the said aid station.

After passing by the SADDLE/DOMOLPOS WAITING SHED again,  all runners will take to the picturesque OLD SPANISH TRAIL, a 11-kilometer long trail (mostly downhill) that will lead them to the next aid/hot food/drop bag station 1 located at the KAYAPA PROPER Market (vehicle accessible). This is CUTOFF 1(8:00:00 Hours) for the 100k and 50k runners. ALL RUNNERS ARE STRONGLY ADVISED TO EAT, DRINK AND REFILL HERE FOR THE LONG GRIND AHEAD. This is also the last food station until Dayap. You have been forewarned.

There are a number of hanging bridges along the way. Take the necessary precautions when crossing one.

From this point, runners will pass by rice paddies and a hanging bridge on their way to Barangay AMELONG LABENG which is marked by its Barangay(village) Hall, school, worship place and basketball court. You will be passing through a cellular phone site tower which is the SECOND SUMMIT.

Runners will then exit at the Nueva Vizcaya-Benguet Road, turn left  and proceed uphill on a concrete road to the entrance of CASTILLO VILLAGE(vehicle accessible) which is marked by a huge welcome sign,waiting shed and a World War 2 Memorial. Water will be available here. At this point, 50k runners will take the concrete road of about four kilometers in distance going to the finish line.

From the village trailhead, 100k runners will trek up for about two kilometers to BUACA LAKE (Lake 1) and a few hundred meters away will be the second lake (if not dry). This is your THIRD SUMMIT.

 

On the way to DAYAP, runners will pass by the house of spouses ENWAY and PASIONA TOMAS, a few hundred meters away from BUACA LAKE.

From the house, runners will proceed to DAYAP PRIMARY SCHOOL(vehicle accessible). It is mostly uphill after you reach a garden/farm along the way at a “saddle” area. DAYAP PRIMARY SCHOOL is the 2nd drop bag station. Hot food/water will be available.

This is also the Cutoff Point 2 for the 100k  runners. A cutoff time of  FOURTEEN HOURS (14:00:00) will be implemented here where runners not able to meet the said time will be considered DNF (did not finish). A vehicle will be provided to ferry runners to the finish line.

Qualified 100k runners will turn RIGHT towards the twin NAYAO LAKES (Lakes 3 and 4) and the trail that leads farther up AMBASA/BANAO (FOURTH SUMMIT).  The turnaround will be at the Banao Elementary School(water/trail food station) where  names and bib numbers shall be recorded.

Upon reaching DAYAP PRIMARY SCHOOL again (LAST AID STATION going to the finish), 100k runners will proceed for about 3 kilometers towards PANGAWAN/BOUNDARY trailhead , enter the trail that leads to INDUPIT Village Junction and from this point, take the TALECABCAB TRAIL towards the finish line.

In total, there are only a few hundred meters of concrete road for FL100 and about  four kilometers for OST.  The rest of the route is all dirt roads/trails. There is significant altitude gain and loss as well.

There will be eight aid stations (100k) and five aid stations (50k), and one drop bag station(Dayap) for FL only. Drop bags will be ready for retrieval at the finish line after the race.

All waiting sheds/junctions/forks will be marked by ribbons or manned by marshals. Whenever you reach a junction/fork, make sure to look for ribbons tied on grass, trees or fences, and proceed from there. If you happen to enter a junction/fork and you do not see a confidence marker after running about 300 meters, return to the area where you last saw a ribbon and locate the area where subsequent ribbons are. Additionally, there will be paint markers on stones, rocks, trees and the ground in critical junctions.

NO time credits will be given for any runner lost. It is the personal responsibility of each runner to familiarize himself with the route. BE ATTENTIVE to markers, listen intently during the race briefing and carry the official map during the race proper.

Again, to help preserve the area, please DO NOT LITTER nor TAKE/CUT ANYTHING except pictures. The only “authorized” trashes are horse and cow dung which are abundant along the route so beware. If you need to go, there are lots of grassy areas and tree trunks are wide enough to cover your behind. Beware of staying too close to ravines, though. Dispose off your wet wipes properly. All energy gel/food packs/bottles must be thrown in the garbage bags provided for at each food station and if you happen to be taking such where no adequate disposal is available, please keep the wrappers with you until such a time that a garbage bag is available.

Drop bags must be properly marked with name, bib number and event and will be collected during the briefing. They must be properly secured. Breakages will not be the responsibility of the organizer.

Strong winds buffet the area from time to time and the weather is unpredictable, so it is wise to bring warm and dry clothing/accessories.

For best traction, trail shoes are highly advised.

Cellphone signals exist(Smart, Sun and Globe) but are intermittent. You may contact these numbers for any concerns; 0917 803 0664, 0922 822 9342 and 0999 998 7654.

Music players are allowed but NOT recommended. Cameras are! The designated cutoff times are such that runners may be afforded the luxury and time to take pictures and savor the moment and surroundings.

NO registration fee refunds or transfers will be given for WHATEVER reason.

NO unregistered pacers, guides and bandits allowed.

NO cheating, please. I sincerely wish that this will be the last race ever that I will be reminding participants of this matter. After all, we are all decent, mature and responsible individuals, aren’t we? Besides, the route was designed in such a way that any “shortcuts” will only make the route longer.

Any complaint on cheating must be made WITHIN one hour after crossing the finish line and must be made in writing, signed and submitted to the RO/RD for proper action. This must also be accompanied by a visual proof/s of the alleged cheating. Any complaints after the one-hour period will NOT be entertained.

The Race Organizer and Director reserve the right to modify race rules and cancel the remainder of the race while it is in progress at any time for the benefit, safety and welfare of the participants.

 

 

RECOMMENDED GEAR for all events 

1. Cellular phone (fully charged and with load)
2. Light jacket or arm warmers and head covers
3. Functioning flashlight or headlamps
4. At least 1.5 liter capacity hydration bag or belt bottles
5. Whistle
6. First aid kit(antiseptic, band aid, cotton, salt, loperamide tablets)
7. Extra food or energy gels
8. Wet wipes
9. Light poncho

Trekking poles allowed but NOT mandatory.

 

 

ROUTE LANDMARKS

Kayapa-Mt Ugo-Kayapa via Indupit/Ansipsip/Domolpos/Kayapa Proper/Amelong Labeng/Castillo Village/Dayap/Ambasa/Banao/Pangawan/Indupit/Talecabcab

(Distances are based on GPS measurements)

 

 

How to get there: KAYAPA

Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya is a small and quaint, peaceful and serene, and vegetable-producing mountain town nestled about 1121 meters above sea level, 80 kilometers away and a comfortable 2-hour drive from Baguio City through the Benguet-Nueva Vizcaya Road (also known as Ambuklao Road).The town is located at the boundary between Benguet and Nueva Vizcaya and is the gateway to Region 2 if coming from the west.

The zigzag road is completely paved and offers spectacular views of Ambuklao and Binga Dams, rivers, lakes, pine tree-clad mountain sides, vegetable garden terraces and very cool and unpolluted weather. In fact, the abundance of pine trees will give you the chance to breathe real pine tree-scented air.

If you are flying to the Philippines, the main entry point to Manila is the Ninoy Aquino International Airport(NAIA) and from there, you may take the VICTORY regular and air-conditioned buses with terminals in Pasay, Cubao, Caloocan and Sampaloc in Metro Manila. Take those bound for Baguio or Nueva Vizcaya. Buses are available on a 24-hour basis.

Alternatively, you may fly in via Diosdado Macapagal International Airport(DMIA) in Clark Field, Pampanga and take any bus bound for Baguio at the Dau Terminal.

From Baguio, you may take the buses and vans that regularly ply the route. Old school buses (Bambang/Belance/Dupax-bound) and vans are either located at the Dangwa Terminal or Slaughter House compound. Bus trips start at 8AM up.  Fares vary from 115php to 150php.

Should you miss the regular trips, you may hire a van or taxi for a ride to Kayapa.

Car rentals are also available from NAIA/DMIA to Baguio/Kayapa.

If you are traveling by car, take the North Luzon Expressway(NLEX) then merge with the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway(SCTEX) and the Tarlac Pangasinan La Union Expressway(TPLEX). Proceed to the Rosales exit and take the main highway(MacArthur Highway) all the way to Baguio via Kennon Road, a 4-hour drive or through San Jose City(Maharlika Highway), the historic Dalton Pass, Sta. Fe, Aritao.

From Aritao, Kayapa is less than an hour away via a 29-kilometer concrete zigzag drive, the Benguet-Nueva Vizcaya Road which connects the 2 provinces. Ample road directions guide the travelers.

Aritao is about 220 kilometers and 5 hours away from Manila through NLEX, SCTEX, TPLEX  via San Jose City or Bulacan(Plaridel)/Nueva Ecija(Gapan-Cabanatuan-San Jose City) if exiting at Santa Rita in NLEX.

Another option is to stop in Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya which is 15 kilometers after Aritao and take the buses or vans bound for Baguio at the bus parking area near a gasoline station along Maharlika Highway. From Bambang, Kayapa is an hour or so away.

There are only a few bed and breakfast type lodgings, homestays to be exact, (Barangay Pangpang Hall-0929 844 8481, Edna Camilo-0928 989 9608, Kayapa Parish Hall-0909 675 4618 and Boulevard Inn-0910 444 3123) in Kayapa which offer only basic necessities. Rates start at 200php per bed and cooked meals of your choice may be arranged with the landlord. You may want to reserve EARLY by contacting the said numbers directly as there are only limited bed spaces. Room-sharing is the norm. All are walking distances to the starting and finish line.

Or you may want to camp out for free at the Parish Church area where you can also park your vehicles some 200 meters away from the start or even sleep inside Kayapa Town Hall, also for free, provided you bring your own beddings.

Food is not a problem as there are a number of small eateries at the town center. There are also a number of stores from where you can buy bottled water, snacks and other food, and other personal necessities. Practically everything you will need is within walking distance.

And before you head for home, be sure to buy fresh produce at giveaway farm prices and local products at the market.

There are NO water refilling stations, cable television and internet connections in Kayapa. An FM radio signal from Baguio exists.

Lastly, a strict NO SMOKING policy exists in ALL of Nueva Vizcaya, You have been forewarned.

Again, please respect the environment, locals, rules and guidelines at all times, thank you.

I am hoping that some runners will find Kayapa to their liking, enough to make it their kind of refuge and Eden. Perhaps, not a few will be coming back for a private visit.

Kayapa is perfectly isolated somewhat but in a nice way.

Kayapa is my kind of town. Make it yours, too.

P.S.

And with all due respect, the Race Organizer’s and Director’s word is final.

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2015 HARDCORE HUNDRED MILES TRAIL ULTRAMARATHON (H1)

Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines

Finisher’s Buckle

Finisher’s Trophy

 

  http://www.ultratrailmb.com

Qualifying Race for 2016 UTMB, 4 Points

 

2013 Hardcore Hundred Miles finisher Jonnifer Lacanlale’s race testimony as published in frontRUNNER Magazine

 

Race route pictures/images, courtesy of  KOTM participants Nick Pasiken, Lai Fong Sang, Leslie Ho, Rodelyn Guidaben, George Javier, Yim Heng Fatt

1) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ooVQ2h7Iug

2) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJrXYMJQN1o

 

The Pioneers

 

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

START: Kayapa Town Hall

FINISH: Kayapa Central School(H1)/Dayap Primary School(P1)

DATE: May 22-23, 2015

Start Time: 12:01 AM, Friday, May 22, 2015(H1 and P1)

Cutoff Times: 40:00:00 Hours Saturday, May 23(H1)/26:00:00 Hours Saturday, May 23(P1)

Race Briefing and Race Kit distribution: 10:00 AM, Thursday, May 21 Kayapa Central School*

*(A duly-signed and -accomplished medical certificate not older than fifteen days from date of issuance(Med Cert) must be submitted in hard copy(NO soft copies, in any form, will be accepted) upon claiming of race kits. Failure to do so will mean non-inclusion in the race without the benefit of a refund. There will be no exemptions.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VK9axymIEfU&feature=plcp

 

 

REGISTRATION PROCEDURE

• Bank Deposit: Bank of the Philippine Islands 2379 0362 39 under the account name of Constante C Mendoza Jr
• Write name and shirt size(Asian sizing) AND qualifying race on the deposit slip, scan and email deposit slip to frontrunnermag@gmail.com (Subject: 2015 Hardcore Hundred Miles)
• Foreigners may pay their fees through http://www.ultrasignup.com
• NO slot reservation allowed
• 

REGISTRATION FEES

• H1-Locals 6,000 Php (Inclusive of Race and Pacer bibs, Trail fees, Race map, Event Long-sleeved shirt, Pre-race Snacks and Post-race Meals. Official Finishers will receive a Medal, Buckle, Trophy and Shirt.)
• H1-Foreign Entrants 200.00 USD (via http://www.ultrasignup.com)
• PULAG 100-Locals 3,500 Php((Inclusive of Race bibs, Trail fees, Race map, Event Long-sleeved shirt, Pre-race Snacks and Post-race Meals. Official Finishers will receive a Medal, Trophy and Shirt.)
• PULAG 100-Foreign Entrants 100.00 USD (via http://www.ultrasignup.com)

• Registration period starts on November 1, 2014 and ends May 2, 2015. There will be NO extensions.

THERE WILL BE NO TRANSFER OF ENTRY FEES(event or person) AND NO REFUNDS(full or partial).  “Finally – please remember that there will be NO refunds – NO transfers – NO exceptions. Do not ask for a refund or a transfer to another date or event – the answer is a polite NO. There will be no refunds even if your cat ate your homework or your dog ate your cat or your grandmother ran over your dog or your grandfather ran over your grandmother or you can’t find a babysitter or your girlfriend is cheating on you or you are cheating on your girlfriend or you get shot in the head during an unfortunate piñata incident, or if you become injured or if you don’t have time to train or if you contract poison oak, syphilis, herpes simplex, chapped lips, or any other communicable disease or you get bit by a lizard, you have a hangover or you got shot in the neck with a poison dart or your trailer gets destroyed by a tornado or you get deported or your daughter gets married, or any other reason – your registration will not, under any circumstances, no way, no how, ain’t gonna happen, be refunded. Comprende? Don’t like that idea? Don’t register.” – Luis Escobar of Born to Run Ultra Marathons in California

 

 

ENTRY GUIDELINES

(adapted from Hardrock Hundred and edited to suit local conditions)

1. H1 prospects must have finished, within the official cutoff time, at least one single stage 100-kilometer or more ultramarathon*(road or trail) in the inclusive period indicated, February 2013 – May 22, 2015. Results must be verifiable in the internet. P1 prospects must have officially finished any one ultramarathon(road or trail) within the prescribed period aforementioned.

*Fat Ass 24-hour event results are acceptable for as long as the participant finished at least 100 kilometers(the more, the better) in 24 hours or less. Results must be verifiable in the internet.

*Multi-sport official finishes regardless of distance covered are NOT acceptable

*Official Finish at the 2013-2014 Clark-Miyamit 50 Miles Ultra(CM50)

2.   Participant must be 18 years of age at the time of the event.

3.   Official finishers of 2013-2014 Pulag and Four Lakes 100 are automatic qualifiers.

4.   Previous Official Finishers of H1, regardless of the year, are automatic qualifiers.

 

 

 

ROUTE

(P1 participants will take the same route and observe the same cutoff times at the designated stations-Babadak/Dayap-as H1, but finish in Dayap)

 

 Race Route on youtube(by Jacob Ong)

 

 

 

 

 

 

START: Kayapa Town Hall(Km 0/1121 masl)

 –  Talecabcab

–  Indupit(1866 masl)

–  Pangawan/Boundary(Km14/1484 masl)

–  Dayap

–  Ambasa

–  Banao Elementary School(Km28)

 –  Cabayo Elementary School

–  Napo/Tuyak Integrated School(Km44)

 –  Mount Pulag Grasslands(Km50/2747 masl)

–  Babadak Ranger Station(Km62)

–  Balete Barangay Hall(Km74/1531 masl)

–  Cabayo Elementary School

– Banao Elementary School(Km 91)

–  Ambasa

–  Dayap Primary School(Km102/1596 masl)*P1 Finish Line

–   Castillo Village Waiting Shed(Km109/1283 masl)

 –  Amelong Labeng(Km122/1431 masl)

 –  Kayapa Proper East Market(Km125/890 masl)

 –  Domolpos Waiting Shed(Km136/Km143/1763 masl)

 –  Mount Ugo Summit(Km141/2150 masl)

– Domolpos Waiting Shed(Km143/1763 masl)

–  Domolpos Village

–  Ansipsip Waiting Shed(1935 masl)

–  Bundao Waiting Shed(Km151/1835 masl)

 –  Indupit

–  Talecabcab

FINISH: Kayapa Central School (Km 160/1121 masl)

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• 2013 Official Results:  https://frontrunnermagph.wordpress.com/2013/05/09/official-results-2013-hardcore-hundred-miles-trail-ultramarathon-h1/
• 2014 Official Results:  https://frontrunnermagph.wordpress.com/2014/02/24/official-results-2014-hardcore-hundred-milespulag-100-trail-ultramarathon/

 

COURSE RECORDS

Hardcore Hundred: Marcelo Bautista(PHILIPPINES) 32:08:24, 2014

Hardcore Hundred(Women): Maria Josephine Liao(PHILIPPINES) 38:25:34, 2014

Pulag 100: Dino Mantilez(PHILIPPINES) 17:49:00, 2014

Pulag 100(Women): N/A

 

 

 

 

 

AID STATION Locations

*Hot noodle soup, Peanut Butter/Strawberry Sandwiches, Water, Coffee, Chocolate drinks, Chocolates, Boiled Eggs, Fresh fruits, Electrolyte drinks and soda drinks will be alternately served in aid stations. Hot rice meals will be served in 3 selected stations. Final station contents will be announced during the race briefing.

1. Pangawan/Boundary Km 14
2. Banao Elementary School Km 28
3. Napo/Tuyak Integrated School Km 44
4. Babadak Ranger Station Km 62 DROP BAG/CUTOFF STATION-16:00 hours Friday, May 22, 2015 *Hot rice meal will be served
5. Balete Barangay Hall Km 74
6. Banao Elementary School Km 91
7. Dayap Primary School Km 102 DROP BAG/CUTOFF STATION- 26:00 hours Saturday, May 23, 2015 *Hot rice meal will be served
8. Castillo Village Waiting Shed WATER STATION ONLY Km 109
9. Kayapa Proper East Market Km 125  DROP BAG STATION*Hot rice meal will be served
10. Domolpos Waiting Shed Km 136
11. Domolpos Waiting Shed Km 143*Last Aid Station until the Finish Line 

 

OTHER ROUTE INFORMATION

• Highest Elevation of the course-2747 masl-Mount Pulag  Grasslands(KM 50)
• Lowest Elevation of the course-890 masl-Kayapa Proper East Market(KM 125)
• Other Notable Elevations-2150 masl-Mount Ugo(KM 141)
• Temperature Range-12 degrees Celsius(possibly lower at the Mount Pulag area) to 30 degrees Celsius
• Elevation of Start/Finish – 1121 masl –Kayapa Town Hall/Kayapa Central School
• Elevation Gain ~ 11,000 meters
• Elevation Loss ~ 11,000 meters
• Three drop bag stations(H1)/Two drop bag stations(P1)
• The route is a mix of single track trails, dirt paths, loose gravel paths, concrete tire paths, muddy paths, hanging bridges and dry stream beds. In total, there is only less than a kilometer of concrete road in the entire course
• For some area and route pictures, please go to this link; https://frontrunnermagph.wordpress.com/2012/06/13/2013-four-lakes-100kold-spanish-trail-60k-ultramarathon/

 

 

ADDITIONAL REFERENCES

1). Race Director’s Report: https://frontrunnermagph.wordpress.com/2014/02/25/the-call-of-the-wild-from-this-side-of-the-ultra-trail-world-race-directors-report-2014-h1p1/

2. http://jon-ultra.blogspot.com/2013/02/hardcore-100-race-report-unedited.html (The author has already done GNW 100 in Australia, Western States 100, UTMB, TNF100 and Big Horn 100. He was the 2013 H1 first runner up,  2012 BDM 102 champion and first runner up of the 2011 BDM 160 among many other conquests)

3. Technical Data(courtesy of 2014 Finisher, Mark Jolin, USA) http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=2676953

4. For some area and route pictures, please go to this link; https://frontrunnermagph.wordpress.com/2012/06/13/2013-four-lakes-100kold-spanish-trail-60k-ultramarathon

 

 

GUIDELINES

1. While the organizers have exerted their best efforts to mark the course, it is the participant’s responsibility to be familiar with the route and is REQUIRED to carry with him the official race map at all times during the event. This will be provided in the race kit.
2. Drop bags will be collected starting at 8:30 AM up to 12:00 PM ONLY on May 21 at the Kayapa Central School. This is to be strictly followed as the drop bags bound for Babadak will have to be transported no later than 1:00 PM, May 21.
3. The race is conducted in high elevation areas. Participants are strongly advised to bring and wear the proper clothing.
4. Support crews/vehicles are allowed in Babadak, Dayap, Castillo Village and Kayapa Proper East Market only.
5. No porters, guides or unregistered pacers allowed. Violation will mean outright disqualification. Registered pacers are only allowed from DAYAP PRIMARY SCHOOL Km 102 onwards. 
6. Cutoff stations will be located at BABADAK RANGER STATION(KM62-16:00 hours) and DAYAP PRIMARY SCHOOL(KM102-26:00 hours). Cutoff times in Babadak and Dayap shall apply to P1 participants. H1 and P1 participants NOT able to meet the designated times at these points will be declared Did Not Finish(DNF) and brought to the finish line. No one is allowed to bargain with the designated Cutoff  “terminators”. The only official time recognized is the Race Director’s time.
7. There will be bib and time recorders at the different aid stations so all participants must report to the stationed race marshal to have his name and bib recorded.
8. Participants must take extra caution and care when passing through rice terraces/paddies and vegetable gardens.
9. Participants must close all gates along the route after passing.
10. Participants are strictly prohibited to run in all the hanging bridges and must pass each bridge maintaining at least a 30-meter gap between participants.
11. Participants must observe and apply the Leave No Trace(LNT) principle at all times.
12. Given the distances between and inaccessibility to motorized vehicles of most aid stations, all runners are REQUIRED to have at least a 1.5-liter capacity hydration bladder(more capacity, the better) or its equivalent in handheld bottles including enough food to last the distance/time between aid stations. Potable spring water sources along the route will be properly identified. These sources are self-service.
13. Evacuation costs for runners who will declare themselves as DNF(Did Not Finish)will be at the said runner’s account/expense.
14. Participants must conduct themselves properly at all times and are requested to treat all marshals with utmost courtesy.
15. Runners who will declare themselves as DNF must contact the Race Director or nearest race marshal informing him of such status.
16. Some of the areas along the route have hamlets so everyone is encouraged to say a word or two of greetings to the locals. Steer clear of animals especially those with their young.
17. There will be NO registration fee refunds for whatever reason, legitimate or imagined. Said fee is not transferable to another person and event. This is strictly implemented so please do not contact the Race Director for any consideration regarding this matter.
18. The Race Director, at any given time, reserves the right to modify and alter the race rules and course or cancel the event for the benefit of the participants.
19. Absolutely No Whining.
20. And with all due respect, the Race Director’s decision is final, thank you.

MANDATORY GEAR

1. Cellular Phone (fully charged and with load)
2. Functioning flashlights or headlamps(extra batteries suggested)
3. Whistle
4. First Aid kit (antiseptic, bandage, cotton, salt, loperamide tablets)
5. Extra food or energy gels
6. Wet wipes
7. Light poncho or Waterproof jacket
8. Official Race Map

 

HOW TO GET THERE: KAYAPA, Nueva Vizcaya

(For some area and route pictures, please go to this link; https://frontrunnermagph.wordpress.com/2012/06/13/2013-four-lakes-100kold-spanish-trail-60k-ultramarathon/)

Kayapa is a small and quaint, peaceful and serene, and vegetable-producing mountain town(valley) nestled about 1121 meters above sea level, 80 kilometers away and a comfortable 2-hour drive from Baguio City through the Benguet-Nueva Vizcaya Road(also known as Ambuklao Road).

The zigzag road from Baguio to Kayapa is completely paved and offers spectacular views of Ambuklao and Binga Dams, rivers, lakes, pine tree-clad mountain sides, vegetable garden terraces and very cool and unpolluted weather. In fact, the abundance of pine trees will give you the chance to breathe real pine tree-scented air.

Kayapa is in the northern part of the Philippines in the island of Luzon and lies in the vast Cordillera mountain range. The town is located at the boundary between Benguet and Nueva Vizcaya and is the gateway to Region 2/Cagayan Valley if coming from the west.

Its upland location provides for cool temperatures on a yearlong basis.

If you are flying to the Philippines, the main entry point to Manila is the Ninoy Aquino International Airport(NAIA) and from there, you may take regular and air-conditioned buses with terminals in Pasay, Cubao, Caloocan and Sampaloc in Metro Manila. Take those bound for Baguio or Nueva Vizcaya. Buses are available on a 24-hour basis.

Alternatively, you may fly in at the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport(DMIA) in Clark Field, Pampanga and take a bus bound for Baguio at the Dau Terminal.

From Baguio, you may take the buses and vans that regularly ply the route. Old school type buses (Bambang/Belance/Dupax-bound) and vans are either located at the Dangwa Terminal or Slaughter House compound. Bus trips start at 8AM onwards.  Fares vary from 120php to 150php.

Should you miss the regular trips, you may hire a van or taxi for a ride to Kayapa.

Car rentals are also available from NAIA/DMIA to Baguio/Kayapa and from Baguio to Kayapa.

If you are traveling by car, take the North Luzon Expressway(NLEX) then merge with the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway(SCTEX), Tarlac Pangasinan La Union Expressway(TPLEX), take the Rosales exit, MacArthur Highway, then proceed all the way to Baguio via the historic Kennon Road, a 4-hour drive in total.

Another option to Kayapa is via Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya by passing through the Maharlika Highway and the historic Dalton Pass in Santa Fe, Nueva Vizcaya. This, after exiting in Rosales and going to San Jose City.

Aritao is about 220 kilometers and 6 hours away from Manila through NLEX, SCTEX, TPLEX and Nueva Ecija(Guimba-SanJose City) or Bulacan(Plaridel)/Nueva Ecija(Gapan-Cabanatuan-San Jose City) if exiting at Santa Rita in NLEX.

From Aritao, Kayapa is an hour or so away and a 29-kilometer zigzag drive up via Benguet-Nueva Vizcaya Road which connects the 2 provinces. Ample road directions guide the travelers.

Another option, if traveling by bus, is to alight in Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya which is 15 kilometers after Aritao and take the buses or vans bound for Baguio at the bus parking area near a gasoline station alongMaharlika Highway. From Bambang, Kayapa is an hour or so away.

There are only a few bed and breakfast type lodgings, homestays to be exact, (Barangay Pangpang Hall-0929 844 8481, Edna Camilo-0928 989 9608, Kayapa Parish Hall-0909 675 4618 and Boulevard Inn-0910 444 3123) in Kayapa which offer only basic necessities. Rates start at 200php per bed and cooked meals of your choice may be arranged with the landlord. You may want to reserve EARLY by contacting the said numbers directly as there are only limited bed spaces. Room-sharing is the norm. All are walking distances to the starting and finish line.

Or you may want to camp out for free at the Parish Church area where you can also park your vehicles some 200 meters away from the start or even sleep inside Kayapa Town Hall, also for free, provided you bring your own beddings.

Food is not a problem as there are a number of small eateries at the town center. There are also a number of stores from where you can buy bottled water, snacks and other food, and other personal necessities. Practically everything you will need is within walking distance.

And before you head for home, be sure to buy fresh produce at giveaway farm prices and local products/souvenirs at the market.

There are NO water refilling stations, cable television and internet connections in Kayapa. An FM radio signal from Baguio exists. This is a perfect set up so you can rest well before the race.

Lastly, a strict NO SMOKING policy exists in ALL of Nueva Vizcaya, You have been forewarned.

Again, please respect the environment, locals, animals, rules and guidelines at all times, thank you.

I am hoping that some runners will find Kayapa to their liking, enough to make it their kind of refuge andEden. Perhaps, not a few will be coming back for a private visit.

Kayapa is perfectly isolated somewhat but in a nice way.

Kayapa is my kind of town. Make it yours, too.

 

FOR INQUIRIES

Call: 0917 803 06 64 / 0999 998 7654 / 0922 822 9342 / 0632 843 2487

Email: frontrunnermag@gmail.com (Subject: Hardcore Hundred)

Race Organizer and Director: Jonel Mendoza

Technical Director and Head Marshal: Isko Lapira

Technical Adviser: MGEN Jovenal Narcise AFP (Ret) aka Bald Runner

Race Management: Frontrunner Magazine