Salomon X-Trail Run 2013 finds outdoor adventure in Pico de Loro

What better way to test how great a pair of trail running shoes are than actually running on, well, a trail?

Some 1,200 runners did just that last weekend during the Salomon X-Trail Run 2013, which happened in one of the most beautiful places in the country, the Hamilo Coast in Nasugbu, Batangas.

But the trail in Hamilo Coast proved to be as challenging as it is beautiful, with a route that included sharp rocks along parts of the shoreline; steep terrains on mountains; concrete paths, and soft sand. It's a highly technical trail that contrasted well with Hamilo Coast's scenery of hills, valleys, lush greeneries, and blue horizon.

Now on its 6th year, the Salomon X-Trail Run is an exhilarating display of human potential, with categories for 24k, 12k, and 6k, which participants took on with fervor. This event has been held in 60 different countries around the globe including Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Indonesia.

Created exclusively for the race, the route prompted competitors to up their game, with runners battling it out through courses of sharp and loose rocks, with roots and thick foliage. Fortunately for the runners, the sun was out. No rain means no muddy or slippery terrain.

I was invited to participate but have to, unfortunately, beg off. I mean, I went to Hamilo Coast, leaving Manila at 1:30am so we can make the 4:30am gunstart. However, I was unable to get enough rest during the 3-hour trip and decided it's better if I sit this one out.

As a runner, this truly made me sad. But we've got to choose our battles, right? Hopefully, I get to join next year.

Raffle prizes were given away during the event, which included Salomon’s XR Mission, the first-ever road-to-trail shoe designed for heightened performance.

Alongside the competition, Salomon X-Trail Pilipinas also campaigned for environmental consciousness, which tolerated no littering and irresponsibility by urging participants to bring their own provisions as no disposables were provided at the hydration stations. There were water and Gatorade stations but participants needed to bring their own tumblers.

The Salomon X-Trail Run 2013 aimed to inspire individuals to tap into their potential and maximize their physical abilities. They did just that. Through hosting events such as this, Salomon remains in the forefront of supporting runners who are bent on breaking the mold.