Health protocols and security are all set in the city of Manila as the ASICS Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series kicks off on Sunday, June 19.
Princess Galura, president and general manager of Sunrise Events Inc. - The IRONMAN Group, bared that the race was divided into two sessions as part of the Covid-19 protocols.
The 5k and 10K races will be held during the morning session beginning at 5 a.m. while the 21K and the 42K (full marathon) events will fire off at 5 p.m both in front of Rizal Park.
"We didn't want people to be waiting and magkakasama sila so hiniwalay natin," said Galura during an online press conference Friday, June 17.
Participants can also join the remix race if they want to take part in either time slot.
As of this writing, there are currently 5,150 runners registered with 3,000 and 2,150 participating in the morning and evening sessions, respectively.
The 10K event earned the highest participants with 1,800, while the 21K event followed suit with 1,500. Around 650 runners will run in full marathon while 1,200 signed up for the 5K race.
In the race proper, competitors have the option to remove or keep their masks on as the course provides an open space enough for physical distancing.
The concert, however, is considered a mask-zone area.
Prior to the race, a temperature will be conducted and participants must have 37.5 degrees Celsius or lower to proceed. A five-minute rest will be required should a runner exceeds the required temperature check.
Aside from live music featuring Gracenote, Itchyworms, Elmo and Arkin Magalona with Hardware Syndrome, DJ Bling One, Moranos band and Kahilom Drumbeaters, runners can also enjoy the vicinity as they traverse Manila's best tourist spots such as the National Museum, Intramuros, Manila Bay, to name a few.
As for the security, Galura added that they have joined forces with the Manila government and the Manila Police District to ensure safety for runners and spectators alike.