Team PH seeks to rule Asia Pacific Trail Running Championships

Fourteen Filipino trail runners are set to make their presence felt when they compete against the best runners in Asia in the Asia Pacific Trail Running Championships in Ulju, South Korea slated October 23 to 27. 

The two-time Southeast Asian Games women’s marathon gold medalist and five-time Milo Marathon queen Christabel Martes mentored the Philippine Trail Running National Team and guided the team in their extensive training in Baguio City.

John Ray Onifa and Elizabeth Dangadang will banner the Filipino runners in the first edition of this prestigious continental meet where they will get to test their mettle against the best runners coming from China, Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea.

“Most of our athletes competing in the Asia Pacific Trail Running Championships will be racing overseas for the first or second time. We’ve seen how this kind of exposure helps them evolve into better athletes by facing equally tough competitors. We are well-prepared and ready for the competition," said Philippine Trail Running Association (PHILTRA) President Atty. James Roldan. 

The Korean race comes after the Philippines’ victory at the Southeast Asian Trail Running Cup in June 2024, where the team took first place and won 17 medals, including five golds, solidifying its dominance in the region. 

With the International Trail Running Association (ITRA) actively pursuing trail running's inclusion in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, the Philippines is anticipating even more opportunities as the sport continues to grow in popularity. 

The other Filipino trail runners who will see action in the tournament are Arnie Macaneras, Larry Apolinario, Roberto Cain, Rhys Pawid, Romnick Tongkaling, Godwin Mirar, Randolf Gonzales, Angelie Cabalo, Trisha Reyes, Angelica Alejo, and Noemi Fernandez. Coach Martes will also compete in the race.