I was given the opportunity to join salomon Xtrail run when my name was picked during race briefing of Pilipinas Akyathlon last February. I originally opted to run the 32K event but I requested to downgrade from 24K since I have a suceeding race this May. A few minutes before gunstart, I found out I had to run 32K since the admin was not informed of the downgrade and that it was too late already. Since I know I can finish the race, I decided to run the 32K. There were around 250 runners during gunstart. As we descended the stony single track trail, a runner from a lower distance tripped behind me causing me to fall and hit face front on the rocky trail ground. Upon seeing blood on my left eye, she whistled for first aid or Marshall but no one came for help. I stood up, dabbed my eye and decided to run to the next aid station. After 2kms, I reached an aid station, but there was no medics. I sat down and iced my eye while I repeatedly asked the Marshall to contact the nearest medics. After 20 minutes, still there was no medics. The Marshall informed me that the ambulance was 4-5kms down the highway. Since there was little bleeding from my wound, I ran further the bike trail down the highway for medics. When I reached the highway, there were only Marshalls but still no medics nor first aid kit. Apparently, the Marshalls did not have any idea of their location and that they weren't coordinated with any medics and other marshalls.While I waited for the medics, another runner came complaining of dizziness. I had to call (via mobile)my Optha (from Baguio) to ask advise on my wound.
The route was highly technical but there were no kilometer markers. The small Salomon flaglets were poorly visible (they're color white) to tired and hungry runners. Asking directions from the marshalls didn't help either. They didn't have any idea how far or how long is the location or turnabout.
Most of the terrain were downhill along loose gravel with a handful of ropes to hold on to. Most of the time, runners either slide hands-free or take the risk of clinging onto tiny or thorny plants or shaky vines. We were like Jane and Tarzan clinging on to what ever we could hang on. Not to mention the vines and cable wires that would literally trap your foot no matter how high your stride is.
With almost one hour delay and despite the throbbing pain and my clouded vision, I was determined to finish the race no matter what. I was able to make it to the midway cut-off. Together with a few runners, we moved on to finish line. Along the route, we spotted some runners who decided to give up and backtracked, some clamoring for a drop of water, some for medics and most for the sweeper to pick them. I reached the finishe line 30minutes after the cut-off time. I went straight to the medics, surprisingly they didn't have any ointment for the minor cut so I had no choice but to ice it again. I had to get back immediately to BGC for medical attention.
I've been running several mountain trail runs and I can say that I had fair training esp. with the mountain trails of the Cordillera yet I had no single incident. I can say that although the trail runs in the Cordilleras are tough, I laud to the fact that it is safe enough for runners. Tall grasses are cut, visible markers are set and the trails are cleaned prior to race day. You'll have villagers offering you water and food and cheering you on.
I am NOT a whiner nor a quitter and I am very much aware of that I should be responsible for my own safety but I guess it is equally the responsibility of the organizers to prioritize the safety of runners. This can be done by providing MEDICS and ENOUGh water in all stations and well-trained and informed directional marshalls. (It's a wild jungle out there!)
Unofficial results present that for 32KM, only 35+runners out of 300 made it to finish line within cut-off; while barely 17 runners were able to make it in the 24KM event! (How unrealistic is the cut-off time?)
For the first time, I felt real scare when it dawned on me that the Salomon Xtrail race almost cost my left-eye vision and perhaps a life changing circumstance in my running career.
Back in Baguio city, I went to see my Optha first thing in the morning. After thorough screening, I was declared clear from any eye impairment leaving me with a minor cut exactly on the dent of my left eyelid and several bruises on my knees and elbows. I still have to worry about the black eye in the next few days though...and of course no running for a few days or so.
I will definitely go back to Hamilo Coast to enjoy the view and the beach but NOT to join another inadequately organized XTrail Run...
(Surprisingly, the organizers SEEM very QUIET about such issues!)
Accidents happen and when they do, it will make you wish you were with someone to pull it through... I thank the runners who somehow helped me go through such ordeal. Thank you also Rain or Ren for accompanying me in the last few miles along the rocky beach side towards the finish line...Of course, to the guidance and enduring love and care of the Supreme...
