RUNRIO Inc. organizes the Galaxy Watch Cebu Half Marathon on November 24

CEBU CITY – RUNRIO Inc. is inviting all runner enthusiasts in Cebu to join the “Galaxy Watch Cebu Half Marathon” scheduled on November 24, 2024 as a celebration of Cebu’s vibrant running culture and to highlight the scenic route across the iconic Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), offering runners the chance to experience one of Cebu’s most stunning landmarks, interested participants can register via the official website: https://cebuhalfmarathon.com.

“We believe the running community in Cebu is already ready in terms of the distance because I notice there has been lots of races happening in Cebu, actually almost every week.  The reason we have this Cebu Half marathon is to mark the launching of the Philippine Half Series, a nationwide race initiative set to debut next year,” RUNRIO CEO and founder, Coach Rio de la Cruz told media/content creators in a press conference on September 5 at the City Di Mare at SRP, Cebu City.

De la Cruz bared that Cebu City has seen the surge of races and the enthusiasm of local runners is undeniable, so the organizers want to launch the Philippine Half Series through this event in Cebu because they already have launched the Galaxy Watch Manila Half Marathon scheduled on October 27, at the same time, they want the runners to experience the iconic CCLEX bridge.

The Galaxy Watch Cebu Half Marathon is poised to captivate Cebu's running community on November 24, 2024, with the event offering 21K, 10K and 5K race categories, with registration fees ranging from P1,600 to P2,600. Participants will also receive race gear and post-race refreshments, including Gatorade, Le Minerale water, burgers, ice cream, and taho, according to de la Cruz.

Objectives of the Half Marathon

According to Coach Rio, the Cebu Half Marathon aims to showcase the natural beauty and cultural landmarks, highlighting the unique features of each host city. The event generates revenues for local businesses and communities, boosting tourism and economic activities and supporting the “Love the Philippines” campaign of the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The event also serves as a platform for runners to challenge themselves, encourage physical activity to promote health and wellness and to foster community engagement through collaboration with various local government units, residents, businesses and organizations.

“We also want to highlight Cebu City and celebrate the cultural heritage of the cities in the Philippines with local cuisine, music, and arts. All the participants of the Marathon are afforded the chance to refuel and experience the flavors of the local food of the host city,” Coach Rio added.

Coach Rio said that RUNRIO is dedicated to make the event both challenging and enjoyable, while showcasing Cebu as a sports tourism hub. Collaborating closely with CCLEX management, the organizers aim to minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth race experience.

To maintain a clean route, garbage bins are strategically placed in the route areas.  More than just a competitive race, the Galaxy Watch Cebu Half Marathon is a celebration of Cebu’s vibrant running culture and a platform for global recognition.

“RUNRIO’s long-term goal is to produce world-class running events in the Philippines and to attract elite international runners, making the event a cornerstone of Cebu’s sporting calendar. The race is supported by key partners, including Samsung, Gatorade, Le Minerale, City Di Mare, CCLEX, and Grab, with the backing of the DOT, positioning it as a major sports tourism event,” Coach Rio said. (Photos: MBCNewman)