A Journey in the Heart of the Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup: The Unseen Heroes Behind the Scenes

As the sun still hid behind the horizon, the Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup (SEATRC) 2024 commenced in the early hours of the morning. The event, organized by PHILTRA and in partnership with Tawid Mountain Marathon, one of the longest-running trail marathon events in the Philippines, saw its first gun start at 3:00 AM (Long Trail – elite/invitational). By then, the organizers, crew, and everyone else behind the cup were already on their feet, having worked tirelessly the day before to ensure everything was in place. This spectacular gathering brought together athletes from Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia, and our very own Philippines. It was an inaugural celebration of endurance, camaraderie, and the sheer beauty of trail running. But beyond the thrilling races and breathtaking vistas, there lies a story of dedication, teamwork, and the incredible people who made it all happen.

The Team Behind the Magic

Being part of the crew for the SEATRC cup was an experience unlike any other. It wasn’t just a task; it was a journey of heart and soul. Our team was a vibrant mix of young, talented individuals mostly trail runners who understood how vigorous the sport is, poured their energy and passion into every detail of the event. From setting up the race routes, getting the race venue done, to ensuring every runner’s safety, the amount of work that went on behind the scenes was colossal. Sleepless nights were the norm, but the spirit of unity and the shared goal of creating something extraordinary kept everyone going.

The Dream Team Creative Department

One of the most exhilarating parts of my journey was working with the media team. Ensuring good livestream coverage, graphics and social media updates, sharing the thrills of what’s going on in the course and at the Finish Line, and recognizing sponsors required a special kind of dedication. Enter the Dream Team Creative Department: Justine, Amethyst, and Litlit. These young professionals brought a level of creativity and passion that was truly inspiring. Their tireless efforts meant that even those who couldn’t be there in person could still feel the energy and excitement of the event. I would like to think that our updates, videos, and live streams captured the spirit of the SEATRC cup. I couldn’t have asked for a better team to work with – their enthusiasm and dedication were contagious. Great job, The Dream Team Creative Department! Let me know if you want to hire them, aw us! **wink wink**

It Takes a Village

The success of the SEATRC cup was a collective effort, truly taking a village to bring it to life. The collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Bontoc was seamless and inspiring. Their support was instrumental in ensuring that the event ran smoothly and that all visitors, both local and international, felt welcomed and safe. The LGU worked tirelessly with us, providing logistical support and safety, securing permits, and coordinating with local authorities to manage the influx of visitors and participants.

A Symphony of Effort

Every task, no matter how small, was crucial to the event’s success. From the volunteers at the Supported Aid Stations, hydration stations to the medics ready to assist in case of emergencies, everyone played a vital role. Our team was constantly on the move, adjusting to last-minute changes, and troubleshooting unexpected challenges. The camaraderie that developed was akin to that of a close-knit family. We shared laughter, stress, sleepless nights, and the immense satisfaction of seeing our hard work pay off.

The Races

The races themselves were nothing short of exhilarating. The SEATRC featured various categories, including the Long Trail, Short Trail, Mountain Classic Junior and Senior, and the Vertical Kilometer. Watching elite runners push their limits and conquer the rugged terrains of Bontoc was awe-inspiring. Each runner brought their unique story, and witnessing their triumphs and struggles was a humbling experience.

The Tawid Mountain Marathon added another layer of excitement with its open category races. Non-elite runners took on the challenging 42km, 24km, and 12km courses, showcasing their passion for trail running and their determination to finish strong. It was a beautiful reminder that trail running is for everyone, regardless of their skill level.

Reflections

Looking back, the SEATRC cup was more than just a sporting event; it was a celebration of human spirit and perseverance. The friendships forged, the lessons learned, and the collective achievement of pulling off such a monumental event will stay with me forever. The sleepless nights, the exhaustion, and the stress all faded away in the face of the overwhelming joy and pride we felt as the last runner crossed the finish line.

In the heart of Bontoc, amidst its stunning landscapes and rich culture, we created something special. The Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup was a testament to what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision and unwavering dedication. It was an honor to be a part of this incredible journey, and I look forward to many more adventures on the trails.

To all the unsung heroes who worked behind the scenes, to the leadership of Philtra and Tawid Mountain Marathon, to the supportive LGU, to the Dream Team Creative Department – Justine, Amethyst, and Litlit, to all volunteers, marshals, and crew – and to every runner who graced the trails of Bontoc, thank you. Together, we made history.

Photo Credits: RoxRoldanPhotography / Sky_Ramoss_II / JoeCaster