Multisport: 2015 October

STOP RUNNER'S TROTS IN ITS TRACKS

MULTISPORT

SWIM BIKE & RUN

O C TO BE R 2015

ST A F N SSIE PRO RU KE AU

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LI BETTEN SAM

KICKS TO P UMP UP YOUR R UNS

SS O R C TRIPATHIRN OUGH

TO R MPETITION THE CO

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I ELL C I D UI CO A G ANCIS I G R GIO NNA FR JOA

NIK KO H REA UEL D BRE Y FOR A GA AKTH BIGG S R E OUG

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MULTISPORT

C O N T E N T S OCTOBER 2015

editor in chief Patrick Joson

03 04 OUTRUNNING NUMBER TWO NEW KICKS ON THE BLOCK

editor at large Kaye Lopez managing editor Eric Nicole Salta editorial assistant Romeo Moran graphic artist Mona Yeena Tan copy editor Joy Rojas staff photographer Patrick Segovia contributors Nina Beltran, MD | Sabrina Gonzalez | Sam Betten | Pat Mateo | Xander Angeles

Five fresh run shoes, road-tested and reviewed

What to do when your stomach gets the better of you on the road

executive board chairperson Alexandra Prieto-Romualdez finance advisor & treasurer J. Ferdinand De Luzuriaga vp/ hr group head Raymund Soberano vp/chief strategy officer Imelda Alcantara svp and group sales head, inquirer group of companies Felipe Olarte group publisher Bea Ledesma creative director Niña Muallam

12 CROSS-TRAINING 14 RACE STRONGER

The right way to approach off-season workouts

sales avp for sales Ma. Katrina Mae Garcia-Dalusong key accounts specialist Angelita Tan-Ibanez senior account executive Thea Ordiales | Abegail Ginaga account executives Andie Zuñiga, Sarah Cabalatungan, Charm Banzuelo, Liza Jison sales support assistants Rechelle Endozo | Karen Aliasas

Pro Sam Betten dishes tips to chase down new PRs

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MOMENT OF RECKONING

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FRONT ROW RUNNING

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HEALTH FIX

business development business development manager Moby Aragones business development associate Kyla Arce social media associate Jeanne Pineda

Nikko Huelgas steps into the big stage with a hunger for bigger wins

distribution business and distribution manager Rina Lareza circulation supervisor for freezines Vince Oliquiano distribution specialist Inoue Aurelio subscription specialist Joan Matienzo distribution assistants Nancy Baybay | Angela Carlos-Quiambao subscription assistant May Ann Dayang merchandisers Rosito Subang, Jr. | Ronil Ano-os | Ramon Briones

Fashion designer Joanna Francisco wants to take on the 2016 Tokyo Marathon

marketing marketing associate Erle Mamawal | Jannelle Turija marketing graphic artist JR Larosa | Lee Caces

Giorgia Guidicelli fuses her hunger for sports and proper nutrition PHOTO BY PAT MATEO

custom publishing sales supervisor Polo Dagdag associate managing editor Pam Brooke Casin | Angela Velasco graphic artists Roi De Castro | Tej Tan | Yayie Motos | Jayceline Soriano | Janine Alcantara senior account executive Shanna Maling account executives Ina Mateo | Gene Perez editorial assistants Pauline Miranda | Pamela Jean Carlota | TJ Billones | Christelle Tolisora | Rica Erlano production production manager Noel Cabie final art supervisor Dennis Cruz production assistant Maricel Gavino final art assistant Kristine May Paz

EDITOR’S NOTE

IT network systems engineer Kyle Billote | Romeo Gargullo

HOME STRETCH It’s important to put into perspective the bigger picture of why we swim, bike, and run. We need to know what motivates us as well as what fuels our flame to still go out and train each day when most of us would just sit back and relax.

Our issue this October is something to hold you a bit back on the partying—with the Christmas season ramping up—while most of us are on the latter part of our race season. These individuals have set their sights and locked on to their goals to achieve higher heights for themselves and for the country.

Nikko Huelgas gave us our second SEA Games gold medal for triathlon in Singapore last June 7. He shares his insights to what happened that morning and what it took him to win that gold medal. He pays tribute to his coach George Vilog and the people that brought him to where he is now.

Presyler Francisco, and she shares how she is preparing for her Tokyo marathon.

Australian professional triathlete Sam Betten also shares with us five easy to remember 21K race strategies to make sure we break our PR on our next 70.3 race. To add on to the valuable race tips, Giorgia Guidicelli emphasizes the importance of nutrition in sports, while Dr. Nina Beltran shares her knowledge on digestion and fueling right during racing and training.

We’re hitting the last quarter of the year, where time is valuable. Train smart, and keep safe everyone!

hr hr director- shared services Chuchi Gracia hr manager Lenlen Gabrieles hr assistant Reynalyn Fernandez finance & admin finance & admin manager Maria Cecilia Balitaan executive assistant Nathalie Presillas admin assistant Jullia Pecayo general accountant Renato Ramirez collection assistant Rosalie Cataneo billing analyst Marilyn Galvan disbursement analyst Zosimo Lim accounting assistant Marnelle Nool messenger/collector Ramonito Dumayaca

ALL CONTENTS COPYRIGHT 2015, RESERVED FOR HINGE INQUIRER PUBLICATIONS, INC. No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced in whole or in part, without the express written permission of HINGE INQUIRER PUBLICATIONS. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of HINGE INQUIRER PUBLICATIONS. Mail correspondence to Multisport Philippines, 4/F Media Resource Plaza Mola St. corner Pasong Tirad, Brgy. La Paz, Makati City. For comments, feedback, and advertising inquiries, contact: (632) 403-8825 Email: multisportphilippines@gmail.com, multisport@hip.ph

The world of fashion and sports is now so intertwined that there are a number of fashion icons who are seriously taking up the active lifestyle. One of them is Joanna Patrick Joson editor in chief

multisportphilippines@gmail.com

WHERE TO FIND US

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MULTISPORT G E A R Zoot Ali’i P9,000

GOOD FOOT

PUTTING FRESH KICKS THROUGH THE PACES Photos by Patrick Segovia

The Ali’i is lightweight and flexible, which makes you feel like you’re running barefoot. (However, don’t actually run barefoot in this; if you don’t wear socks, you might easily get blisters.) It also sports easy lace adjustments and a good cushion for your sole, but it isn’t advisable to run with it on a slippery surface due to a slightly lax grip. There’s also some slight muscle tension when running with it. –Mona Tan, MultiSport graphic artist

Mizuno WAVE Sayonara 2 P5,400 It's low to the ground, making for a more responsive run, and the weight makes for a faster turnover.

It's a highly engineered shoe with seamless design. You will be surprised with the natural movement of the shoe and how it feels so stable even for its minimalist design and weight. Perfect for more experienced runners looking for a serious race or training shoe. –Patrick Joson, MultiSport editor in chief

Skechers go run 4 P4,995 This shoe's midfoot strike zone promotes natural running, indeed being light and cushy. Its technology is smart, in a sense, that it gives the right amount of cushion and sense of feedback you get from the ground. The Go Run 4 is perfect for someone with good running technique and wants a fast trainer for 21k to 42k. –Patrick Joson, MultiSport editor in chief

Adidas Ultra Boost P8,295 The super-lightweight and flexible Ultra Boost is a treat for any runner, although you can only take it out on the road and indoors. It has a great cushion for your sole, and protects your feet from blisters with a padded back. Beyond that, it has normal laces and provides no muscle tension. –Mona Tan, MultiSport graphic artist

Saucony ISO Triumph P6,750 The highest of Saucony’s neutral trainer with its PWRGRID+ makes for the plushest ride, and the ISO fit creates a hugging feel on the foot.

This shoe is the plushest shoe I have ever tried. It just cradles your foot from strike to recovery, while the ISO fit allows for a sock-like feel of the upper. This shoe is perfect for longer races and people who want a softer ride. –Patrick Joson, MultiSport editor in chief

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N U T R I T I O N MULTISPORT GUT FEEL The best steps to outrun the trots Avoid milk products, fiber, high fat, and high protein 24 hours before competition and during exercise.

During the race, consume different sources of energy (powerbars, gels, sports drinks) to minimize taste fatigue leading to nausea or vomiting.

Avoid nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as your simple pain relievers, as they can irritate the stomach lining.

SKIP THE STOPS

Pre-meals should be timed four hours to 30 minutes prior to exercise to allow complete gastric emptying.

TRAIN YOUR GUT TO AVOID NUMBER TWO ON RACE DAY Words by Nina C. Beltran, MD | Photo by Brendan Smialowski / AFP There are a lot of things to be nervous about during race day, and a hyperactive stomach should be the least of them. Some have dramatically coined this condition as “exerciser's plague,” while athletes call it “runner's trots,” a generic term for lower gastrointestinal (GI) distress, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea.

But runners don't have sole claim on this queasy condition.

Triathletes suffer the same fate, too.

The stories are endless: There's one who had to dig in the sand to make a potty just

WHAT CAUSES TROTS? GI problems of athletes are multifactorial and highly individualized. But here are the common culprits.

before the swim leg of a race last year. There's a runner who had to use his sock as tissue at a portalet during a race. There was also a coach who had to stop at the side of the road with nothing but tall grass as his makeshift toilet during a cycling leg. We fear trots during race day because the symptoms can be very uncomfortable, forcing us to abandon the race altogether, or worse, embarrass ourselves by soiling our shorts.

Studies have shown that almost all endurance athletes are affected by trots. The Sports

Science Journal (2013) reported that long-distance athletes (road and trail runners, century cyclists, and triathletes) who competed in extreme conditions demonstrated up to 93 percent of at least one GI symptom.

More alarming was that 43 percent of triathletes have serious GI problems, and seven percent abanoned the race because of thees GI issues. Quitting a race because of an upset stomach has to be the worst feeling. These factors are beyond our control but a nervous stomach is something that can be prevented.

REDUCED BLOOD FLOW TO THE GUT During maximal exercise, blood flow to the GI tract is reduced by up to 80 percent to provide sufficient flow to the active working muscles, heart, lungs, and skin. In turn, gut digestion and food transit are compromised. This makes us vulnerable to experience abdominal pain, heartburn, and diarrhea.

MECHANICAL CAUSES The repetitive high-impact mechanics of running may contribute to lower GI symptoms such as passing gas, diarrhea, and an urgency to pee or poop.

Meanwhile, cyclists' super aero or aggressive position increases pressure on the abdomen and causes upper GI symptoms.

Try different foods and see what works for you. Practice nutrition strategies with your exercise at least once a week.

Never try anything new on race day.

Nina C. Beltran, MD is an avid marathoner and triathlete from team Tribe. She's the key speaker on nutrition for endurance athletes for the Philippine College of Physicians and a practicing doctor specializing in internal medicine and pulmonology in her free time.

NUTRITIONAL CAUSES Food that takes a longer time to digest like fiber, fat, protein, lactose, gluten, and fructose have all been associated with greater risk for trots. Dehydration may worsen symptoms.

MULTISPORT

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

NEED FOR SPEED VERMOSA LAUNCHES ITS MOTOCROSS TRACK AND MOUNTAIN BIKE SKILLS TRACK AT THE ACTION-PACKED VERMOSA SPEEDFEST Start fast, and start strong. Vermosa, Ayala Land's newest, sportscentric community, kicked off its development with the Vermosa Speedfest, a Mountain Bike Skills Clinic and Motocross Challenge last October 24 and 25.

The Mountain Bike Trail Skills Park's series of pump tracks, berms, rollers, wooden bridges and drops

set the stage for the Mountain Bike Skills Clinic for beginner and advanced cyclists on the first day of the event. The clinic was facilitated

by UCI National Commisaire Parabanne Mendoza.

The second day featured the first Ayala Land Motocross Challenge, featuring 15-time Philippine MX Champion and 2003

Asian Motocross Series champion Glenn Aguilar. Over two hundred motorcycle enthusiasts competed in the tournament spanning eighteen categories. The Vermosa MX Tracks were designed by Aguilar.

The launch also featured activities such as acrobatic motor stunts, lectures, driving and riding courses, and safety seminars hosted by Honda.

2015 10 27 Vermosa Advertorial.indd 2

There's something to keep everyone on their feet at Vermosa, and this is all just the beginning.

For more information, visit the Vermosa page on Facebook at www. facebook.com/VermosaPH and the website at www.vermosa.ph.

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T R A I N I N G MULTISPORT

THE GAINS OF CROSS-TRAINING

TO RUN WELL, YOU HAVE TO RUN MORE, RIGHT? TRY CROSS-TRAINING INSTEAD Words by Sabrina Gonzalez | Photo by Martin Bureau / AFP The principle of sport-specific training is common sense: in order to improve your running performance, you should train by running. Although there are no comparable alternatives to endurance training for endurance athletes, there are other workout options that runners should consider. That’s where cross-training comes in. Dabbling in different disciplines that complement running can boost your potential for greater success.

1.Strengthen other muscle groups. Crosstraining allows you to focus on and strengthen other muscle groups, which can help support you when running. Various workouts can increase your stride power, resulting in wider stride length. Your body becomes more balanced, and you are able to achieve increased overall fitness.

2. Run faster. A number of researches have shown the benefits of resistance training for runners, citing an increase in running economy and improved performance. Training with an elliptical ensures the maintenance of VO2 max while high power cycling can help runners increase their speed when going uphill. A recent study done in Sweden also revealed that plyometrics improved speed, which is vital in competitive running.

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3. Prevent injuries. Cross-training helps prevent injuries by reducing repetitive movements during running, and replacing them with other lower impact activities.

For example, cycling also focuses on lower extremity muscles, but as opposed to running, is not weight bearing. By strengthening and exercising opposing muscle groups, such as the quadriceps and the hamstrings, joints become more stable. Imbalances in muscle strengths, such as overpronation or weakness of the hips, can likewise be addressed, producing a more balanced stride.

4. Speed up recovery. Trading in part of your running time for other exercises with lower impact allows your muscles to rest and recover, while minimizing de-training. Cross-training is also the ideal alternative for injured runners.

Aerobic workouts keep you in shape while giving your body enough time to heal. Pool running is another good low-impact option.

5. Free yourself from boredom. Adding some variety to your regimen avoids monotony and can serve as extra motivation to train. At the same time, too much running can also cause overtraining, leading to fatigue and declining performance. By changing up your routine, overtraining and burnout are minimized.

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BOREDOM BUSTERS THE BEST APPROACH TO RUNNING BETTER? VARYING YOUR OFFSEASON WORKOUTS Basic push-ups are the building blocks of upperbody strength.

Reinforce the back muscles with simple yet challenging pull-ups.

Build up that thunder thigh power and endurance with squats.

Stabilize and temper the core with sit-ups and other ab exercises.

MULTISPORT T R A I N I N G

FAST

FORWARD NAIL YOUR NEXT 70.3 HALF MARATHON LIKE AUSTRALIAN PROFESSIONAL TRIATHLETE SAM BETTEN

Words by and photos courtesy of Sam Betten

After a 1.9km swim and 90km ride, the Ironman 70.3 triathlon all comes down to the final 21.1km run. This last leg is often the make-or-break part of your race, so it is important to be confident in the way you attack the half marathon.

Having done my fair share of Ironman 70.3 events, I now have a plan of how I break down each section of the 21.1km run. Here are a few tips and tricks that will help you run faster in your next 70.3 half marathon.

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a time per kilometer and 1 Plan stick to it

Pacing the half marathon correctly is crucial to running a good time.

When training for an Ironman 70.3, you should get an idea of a time per kilometer which you can hold consistently over the entire 21.1km.

A big mistake that I see many people make is going out on the run leg at a pace that is far too fast for them to maintain. Sure enough, their pace slows with each kilometer and fatigue sets into the body.

From my own research on how to best attack a half marathon, I have read and seen countless athletes' data from races which show that the best way to run a half marathon is to do so with an evenly paced 21.1km. A runner's watch with a GPS and pacing per kilometer can really help you stay on track.

does not become energy-depleted or dehydrated. It has been shown that if you are just one percent dehydrated then this can have an adverse effect in your sporting performance. Clinical dehydration is when an athlete experiences a three percent loss in body weight (due to the lack of fluids). This can result in increased body temperature to dangerous levels, which could lead to physical and mental exhaustion as well as heat stroke.

“ ” Don’t be discouraged by people overtaking you, as many times those who start out too fast pay for this mistake towards the end. By staying focused on your own race, you can run your half marathon your way.

and hydrate adequately cool 2 Fuel After your swim and bike you 3 Stay With many triathlons starting should be starting the run leg

adequately fueled and hydrated.

It is very important during the run leg to keep up your hydration and fueling to ensure that your body

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this comes the need to stay cool.

Hydration helps keep your body cool, as do these accessories. A run hat or visor shades your face from the sun. Sunglasses with a dark lens have proven to “trick” your mind and body into thinking that it is cooler than it really is. (This is something I heard from an Olympic marathon runner who swore by this mental trick.) Personally, I find that wearing a triathlon suit with a front zipper and sleeves has helped

early, tackling the run leg of the race may not begin until later in the day. This means that temperatures have risen considerably and with

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me stay cooler during races. The sleeves on my Scody A.I.R. triathlon suit shield me from the sun and the large front zipper allows me to undo the front of my suit.

Holding ice, which you can get from the aid stations during the run

course, also helps keep your body temperature down.

Focus on your own race plan During the half marathon, it is very important to focus on your own running. Don’t be discouraged by people overtaking you, as many times those who start out too fast pay for this mistake towards the end. By staying focused on your own race, you can run your half marathon your way.

Hold good run technique All of the great triathletes know that the results come from the process so by focusing on the process (rather than the final result) you can break down the half marathon into smaller steps. By doing so, you will find that running a half marathon becomes much less of a mental task. I often think about running with a good tall posture as well as high arms and a good leg turnover/cadence. By focusing on technique and thinking about what you are doing, you will find that you run a lot more efficiently on race day.

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GET TO KNOW MORE ABOUT SAM BY VISITING HIS WEBSITE SAMBETTEN.COM OR HIS BLOG SAMBETTEN.BLOGSPOT.COM

T R A I N I N G MULTISPORT

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C O V E R S TO R Y MULTISPORT

A NATION’S ASPIRATIONS

IF NIKKO HUELGAS WANTS TO GET INTO THE OLYMPICS, HE’D BETTER BEAT THE REST OF ASIA FIRST 10

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Words by Eric Nicole Salta | Photos by Pat Mateo

F

or someone who’s taken the long road to triathlon, Nikko Huelgas hasn't changed much—if anything, his lean frame and highly telegenic face now show a bit more experience, and he's wearing his battle scars and bruises like badges of honor.

And rightly so. Huelgas’ tussle at the 2015 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Singapore was both a battle of attrition and affliction.

“It’s not physically tiring but mentally tiring,” he says. “Five days before the race, I couldn’t sleep every single night, and the only things that crossed my mind were the ‘what if?’ moments.”

“What if?” turned out to be one of the oft-asked questions of his young career. What if he hadn’t picked himself up after a terrible swim start and a slip at just 100 meters into the bike leg? What if he hadn’t won the NAGT race in Ayala Alabang in October 2009 and met his coach George Vilog?

What if he hadn’t joined a fun run on a whim that same year and got spotted by former national team coach Rick Reyes?

But none of that mattered on a gloomy Monday morning in the MultiSport studio, where Huelgas seems to be having fun firing back at formidable questions thrown at him. Minutes later, he’s shirtless and soaking wet, but isn’t fazed one bit. Barely weeks from his impending return to Portugal to train for another three months, Huelgas has spent some time off in the Philippines after an encouraging breakthrough at the SEA Games. That so-called “time

off” includes coming to terms with his newfound celebrity status.

Huelgas hardly agrees. “I don’t really see myself as a celebrity.

I’m just another guy who still bikes around Metro Manila (laughs). I get to do what I love.

I don’t get to feel stressed or unhappy about the things I do even if they're simple.”

TASTING HELL As he approaches the sixth anniversary of his triathlon debut, Huelgas finds himself in a moment of transition. At 24 and currently ranked 303rd in the world, he’s trying to get into peak shape to crack the Top 200, cement his viable contender status, and, with any luck, earn a slot in the Olympics. Long-time coach Vilog believes he has “the potential, talent, and eagerness to excel.” Their partnership, which includes training three to four times a day, six days a week as well as unavoidable disputes and heat-of-the-moment exchanges, has proved invaluable in shaping Huelgas into the controlled, methodical athlete he is now.

“He's very frank with me. He tells me what I need to hear even if it hurts so much. May mga times na nagsasagutan na kami.

Nagsisigawan na kami at minsan nagmumurahan na,” he says matter-of-factly. “But that’s how it is. In the end, everything we did was for our best interest.”

He credits his coach for orchestrating his inspiring yet punishing run to the SEA Games gold medal. During the race itself, Huelgas withstood a slew of maladies. “The current was really heavy. I think most of us felt a little dizzy after we got out of the water,” he says.

“From there, I waited for my teammate Jonard [Saim] because apparently I was 10 seconds away from him. Tapos I jumped onto the bike, which was pretty slippery kasi kakatapos lang ng ulan. Medyo aspalto pa so ang dulas, eh may tight turn after the

first 100 meters lang, after the first 30 seconds, biglang nadulas ako.” Hobbled by bruises on his right thigh, Huelgas drew from experience and determination and scrambled back on his bike.

“Hinintay ako ni Jonard and when we were together, I just drafted with him all the way until we caught up with the main group. After 10 kilometers, that’s when it sunk in: I might get this gold. Without Jonard, I wouldn’t have won. This shows the great teamwork that we had, and that’s what triathlon is about, especially for draft-legal races.”

HIGH TIME

By Huelgas’ own admission, recapturing his championship form on a consistent basis for bigger races like the Asian Games, major ITU events, and the World Cup proves elusive. When asked if he has reached a point where the Olympics is no longer just a dream but a reality, Huelgas acknowledges that he (and the Philippines, for that matter), still has a way to go before he gets to that level.

“Ang daming malalakas eh but we have the chance especially for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics… if we consistently train, have a good budget, and get full support from public and private sponsors,” he says, citing that the Europeans and Australians are the toughest competitors out there while the Japanese top Asia. Triathletes live and die on the strength of the support they receive. Once they get it, they are able to dig deep and tap into their real potential.

Theoretically, Filipinos do have a chance at making a dent in triathlon, given that height—as in the lack of it—isn’t a liability.

Still, a strong argument can be made on how training conditions and practices here do not always result in quality performances from athletes. As proof, the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) has invested in Huelgas, along with SEA Games

WIN YOUR FIRST TRIATHLON LIKE NIKKO SECRETS TO THIS SEA GAMES MEDALIST’S SUCCESS

1

Invest in swimming for the first few months, about four to five times a week, preferably with a group or swim team. Always take every workout seriously and focus on your technique.

2

Always stretch after every workout and avoid too many sweets and oily food. Consume a protein shake after a tough workout.

Your biggest investment is not the weight of your bike, but your body. Study how you can reach your maximum potential.

3

Consistency is key. The way you train can be as close to the way you race.

Never complain on how tough the workout is and take it as an opportunity to progress.

The results will come later on.

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On race day, it's 10 percent physical, 90 percent mental. You've done the hard work weeks before the race. It's how you deal with the race that will determine your result.

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It will always be about coaches... The big problem is, after you’ve sent them abroad, what happens here? They make it a business rather than passion.

silver medalist Kim Mangrobang to train in Portugal, among others.

For his part, Huelgas needs to hone his body more into a weapon, and improve his swimming skills because, despite his background, he is admittedly far from challenging Asia’s best in the water. It takes the right combination of strength, conditioning, and nutrition to take charge of one’s talent. As the quality of opponents gets better, athletes need to train smarter to keep up with them—which is why his time in Portugal, a stark contrast from the Philippine setting, will be good in the long run.

“We have an Olympic coach who knows so much about the sport.

He’s very confident in taking you to where you should be, to where you want to be. And the healthy food is available and affordable,” he says. “The little things make a huge difference. Everybody trains hard but the little things that people tend to ignore are the ones that actually make a huge leap to getting to that good result.”

A SENSIBLE SIDE Listening to him now, there is no confusing today’s Huelgas with the 15-year-old prodigy who dreamed of becoming a national athlete. The 2015 Huelgas is mature beyond his years yet shows skepticism and dark introspection, especially when it’s about what needs to be done to yield better results without resorting to international training.

“It will always be about coaches,” he confesses. “We need to train coaches and send them abroad for seminars so they can be able to expand. The big problem

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is, after you’ve sent them abroad, what happens here? They make it a business rather than passion.

Rather than promoting the sport, it’s all about money-making and it’s sad.”

This kind of honesty takes plenty of bravery to admit in a medium where it’s usually candylacquered, ignored, or neglected.

And while he has never been an overhyped media magnet, Huelgas speaks with such wideeyed and articulate authenticity that makes you want to root for him, candid predilections and all.

“You have to send athletes away from the city and to an isolated area, hire world-class coaches to train them, and then install track ovals and a covered pool so there are no excuses when it rains,” he says, in his best approximation of a possible future career in TRAP, which he's considering.

That rawness is what separates Huelgas from his contemporaries who also seek to duplicate their success. But his SEA Games win dance on the line between an impressive feat and a tall order anchored by the gripping reality that Southeast Asia is a small pond. What he does when he steps into the bigger stage, such as the looming Asian Games, where stronger Japanese, Chinese, and South Korean triathletes are in the mix, is entirely up to him. If his composure to ride through the heavy deluge that came hammering down right after this shoot is any indication, dipping his toes in unfamiliar waters is a decent start.

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SOURCE OF STRENGTH NIKKO HUELGAS TURNED TO COACH GEORGE VILOG TO GIVE HIM AN EDGE

What training do you do with him and how has that developed over the years?

We do training three to four times a day, six times a week in Cavite. We have target races in a year. Through the years, we improved on his weakness(swim) for ITU events.

How hard is it to keep him motivated yet grounded?

Always with good intentions. I am at all times transparent and straightforward to him.

INVEST IN THE SWIM! NIKKO HUELGAS SAYS THAT TRIATHLETES ARE FOCUSED ON THE WRONG THINGS

You have always maintained that people should start with swimming because it is the easiest way to get into the sport.

Yes, especially with what we’ve been seeing now na maraming naka-cut-off during the swim leg pa lang in a 70.3. If you don’t make the cut-off, tapos na laban mo. People are investing in the wrong things. It shows. You’re investing more in the bike and run, when it should start with the swim.

That’s true, especially during this year’s Ironman 70.3 in Cebu where a lot of people were cut off despite the extension.

It’s the hardest because they’re not training for it. But if they were training for it, the hardest would be the bike because it’s the longest. That’s why people are investing so much on it. But the thing is, the swim is very critical.

Why is the swim neglected?

People don’t like to swim, that’s one, kasi most people are not good swimmers. The way I see it, we’re not talented in swimming compared to running and cycling. It’s cheaper to bike and run. You don’t have to pay for pool fees or go all the way to swimming facilities unlike paglabas mo sa bahay you can run and bike. Which I truly understand but that’s the challenge we try multisportphilippines @multisportph 13 to face as triathletes.

T R A I L S MULTISPORT

LEADING THE PACK FOR DESIGNER AND RETAILER JOANNA PRESYLER FRANCISCO, RUNNING IS NOT A FAD

By Eric Nicole Salta | Illustration by Sainté James Tan | Photo courtesy of Joanna Preysler Francisco

Once on the fringes of running, Joanna Presyler Francisco is now so woven into the fabric of the sport that her children call her sessions “runeoke,” part running and part trading verses that sounds like blissful nights and shooting stars.

Looking nothing like her 46 years, Francisco, the lady behind upscale boutiques Tint and Carbon, brings a comfortable sense of cool to the sport. Though she's fascinated with the idea of moving forward— whether in retail or running—she says speeding on a bike intimidates her from even considering a triathlon. A relay or duathlon is more to her liking. “That’s pretty up there to get started on a whole new discipline, but I’m willing to give it a shot!” she exclaims.

For now, it's the Tokyo Marathon 2016 for this runner, who plans to show up in the starting line with a Garmin on her wrist and the Philippine flag on her chest.

Your husband Raul also runs. Did you two start at the same time?

Raul is a natural athlete, and has been athletic his whole life. We started running together, but now I eat his dust! We also play tennis once in a while, and he has been convincing me to get back into scuba diving.

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Do you ever get competitive just to spice things up?

Raul excels in everything he does. I have yet to find a sport where I can beat him! He runs faster, is a better tennis player, and is a stronger swimmer.

I think the only thing I can potentially beat him at is if Name That Tune becomes a sport.

Given your swimming and tennis backgrounds, did running come naturally to you?

Yes. It hasn't always been easy. Sometimes I get really tired and slacking becomes the easier option. But when I don't run, I don't feel good about myself. I need it mentally and physically. I enjoy the time alone and the space in my head when I run. I get lost in my thoughts, listen to my music, and the best runs I have is when I am focused on the here and now.

What do you find to be the most rewarding thing about running?

Being able to eat and not feel

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guilty! Feeling fit, capable, and strong. I think fit is the new sexy.

Fashion seems to be inspired by running these days. There's the athleisure trend, and personalities like Vanity Fair's editor at large Derek Blasberg, Hugo Boss PR manager Tamara Klien, and fashion PR Elle Hankinson running marathons. To what do you attribute fashion's fascination for running?

People are going back to basics. There are so many "fad" workouts and trends, but running is our most primal instinct. Much as it is fun to join group classes, many busy people need the alone time to smell the fresh air, see the sights, and feel the vibe of the urban life that surrounds them. This is where I get my inspiration and I'm sure it's the same for many people. It's a great way to enjoy your personal space while in the outdoors and get in a workout at the same time—at the time and place of your choice.

What have you learned from running that you are able to apply in your profession?

I've learned that anything is possible with proper training, preparation, and focus. In running, as in life, there are times when things seem insurmountable or overwhelming so I've learned to manage my expectations, know what I can and can't do, but I don't lose heart. Life, after all, is a marathon, not a sprint.

So we also have to respect the distance and enjoy the journey.

When's your next marathon, and have you figured out what you're going to wear?

Tokyo 2016! I still need to see what the weather will be like, and I will build my gear from there. For sure I'll have my Garmin, my water bottle, my iPhone, and I will wear the Philippine flag on my chest.

A family run at Condura 21K with husband Raul and children Mio and Monica

MULTISPORT E V E N T S

ABOITIZ TRI 2015 Unlike this year's Tri United 2, the sunny weather at Pico Beach permitted the 1.5km swim leg of the race to happen. After the swim, athletes transitioned to their bikes and headed out for the steep uphill trail towards the highest point of Pico de Loro Cove.

Upon reaching the top, the athletes did three more loops along the Nasugbu-Ternate highway to complete the 40km ride and then head back to the transition area at the Marina. Unfortunately, a number of the athletes’ bikes broke down in the middle of the trail due to the challenging terrain.

Transitioning to the 10km run, athletes went through a scenic view of plains, tree-less avenues, rolling

hills, and a steep descent going back to the main resort area where the finish line awaited them.

Mervin Rencel Santiago of Sante Barley emerged as this year’s champion with a record of 2:21:18 followed by Peter Gonzales of Bike King who came in 10 minutes later.

John Omar Paredes of Herbalife snagged 3rd place as he arrived another four minutes after Gonzales.

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The Aboitiz Cycling Team composed of Edwards James Roque, Kristian Reyes, and Jose de Jesus also bagged the title of champion in the relay division. Top individual race finishers were awarded P10,000, P6,000, P4,000, and medals, while relay finishers were awarded medals.

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01 The challenging uphill terrain plus the length of the bike loops make this one of the most difficult bike routes in Philippine triathlon 02 The event's champion, Mervin Santiago of Team Sante Barley 03 This participant doesn't yet know what awaits him in the bike leg 04 Competitors from as far as Mexico participated in the event

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SALOMON CITY TRAIL

The Salomon CityTrail Run Manila 2015 was held on September 6 at the much esteemed and culturally rich site of Intramuros, Manila.

Participants of this event were varied, men and women of different ages who wanted to experience Salomon’s goal to “elevate your run” in an urban landscape.

Unlike your average road runs, this race provides unconventional challenges like running up the stairs; bridges and ramps are included to simulate the different foot strides that one encounters in trail running.

Together with Intramuros’ landscape and rich heritage, the Salomon City Trail Manila took urban dwellers through the country’s history by running and touring simultaneously.

This race was a green run, meaning no disposables were given throughout the duration of the race.

The top three finishers in the men’s and women’s divisions were awarded accordingly. The cut-off time was

two hours, and despite the tired look on the runners’ faces, the smiles at the finish line proved that all very much enjoyed the scenery and the experience of Salomon City Trails in Intramuros.

ROX BIKE FAIR 2

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01 Hundreds of runners participated in the event.

02 Surprisingly, a city setting could make for a suitable simulation and substitute for an offroad trail.

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For four years now, R.O.X. has been holding its highly-anticipated Bike Fair, which showcases various activities lined up for a whole month that promotes the sport andl likewise nurtures the community. An=d this year is no different as R.O.X.’s Bike Fair returned to take things to a whole new level as it added more exciting events and activities to its month-long biking affair. Held from July 15 to August 16, the Bike Fair featured a roster of educational and recreational activities throughout different parts of the country including special sales, biking events, and a bike donation drive.

But apart from being the usual friendly competition which gathers

bikers from all corners of the metro in celebration of their mutual love for the sport, this year’s Bike Fair also served as a platform that gathered biking enthusiasts to collectively give back and empower the community through the 4th Bike For A Cause event, which was held during the last Sunday of the month-long event at Marquee Mall, Pampanga City.

This year’s R.O.X. Bike For A Cause event garnered 1000+ registered participants who all came together to ride it out for a good cause.

02 01 A whole host of cyclists and bike enthusiasts turned up at last year's fair.

02 Turnover of Bike Racks to students of Concepcion Integrated School of San Simon Pampanga with R.O.X. Team and Bikes for the Philippines

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B Y T H E N U M B E R S MULTISPORT

GIORGIA GUIDICELLI, 24 FORD FORZA TRI

Words by Eric Nicole Salta | Photo by Xander Angeles graduate of California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, CA, Giorgia Guidicelli has always been into sports, immersing herself in horseback riding, tennis, and soccer before eventually embracing triathlon. While in junior high, she came upon nutrition and developed a passion for it as serious as her love for sports.

“I knew I wanted to be in the health field, but being a doctor or a nurse just sounded too intense for me,” she says. Of course, that was before she spent some considerable time training and competing in triathlon, which is a far more extreme interest. Three years on, Guidicelli has effectively incorporated the two practices in Ford Forza Tri, a squad that is decidedly more focused on helping out than attaining team success. Perhaps more intriguing about Guidicelli is the way a nutritionist-triathlete approaches fueling for herself. “Training nutrition should mirror racing nutrition,” she says. “When I train, I take my energy gels as well as my electrolytes. This way I learn what my stomach can tolerate and the optimum amount and time to drink and fuel up.”

It’s a different thing outside of triathlon, though. “As a family, we don’t really eat out much. So when we do, it’s more of a treat,” she says.

“It’s all about balance—have a cheat meal once, make sure you eat clean the next three meals.”

Not surprisingly, the best part about having a nutrition background is knowing how to make over otherwise guilty pleasures. Maybe she should seriously consider putting up a consultancy company soon. “I don’t offer formal nutrition consultancy. However, many people come to me and ask for advice, and I give it!”

AVERAGE TRAINING MILEAGE EVERY WEEK

7KM 150-200KM 30-35KM SHE TRAINS A MINIMUM OF

14 HOURS PER WEEK

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FIVE NINE COLLEGIATE RACES TRIATHLONS

FOR GENERAL NUTRITION ONE SHOULD GET AN AVERAGE OF:

7-10 0.8 GRAMS GRAMS OF PROTEIN KG BODY WEIGHT

CHOOSE CHOCOLATE THAT IS IN COCOA CONTENT

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OF CARBOHYDRATES KG BODY WEIGHT

70%

READ THE FULL INTERVIEW ON MULTISPORT.PH

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