WITH a lot of races on the same course layout in Hagåtña and Tumon, runners will be presented with a unique opportunity to run on a golf course in the Onward Mangilao Golf Club Fun Run.
The run meanders along the best nine holes of golf in the Pacific including the infamous 12th Hole. The runners get to see a spectacular sunrise in the midst of running along the beautiful lush greenery of the golf course and the natural beauty of the limestone forest and the ocean view.
The first run took place in 2000 and has become popular over the past years. The course does have some hills but volunteers are on the course cheering on the runners and providing water for them. Participants can run, jog or walk.
The idea is mainly to enjoy the natural beauty of Guam’s eastern shorelines. It’s been named as “The Most Spectacular Run” by the Guam Running Club.
This year, the organizers decided to include a shorter 2,200-yard run to attract younger runners and participants who prefer a flatter course.
Part of the proceeds of the event benefit the Guam Junior Golf League who will also be the volunteers on the course during the run. In addition, several of the employees of Onward Resort & Golf also volunteered their time to make this event a success.
Most road races are measured in kilometers and miles but since the run is on a golf course where distances are measured in yards, the distances have been broken down – 5,500 yards is about a 5K while 220 yards will be about a 2K.
Runners will receive a race T-shirt, top six finishers in each category receive medals for their achievement, and first-place male and female runners receive a trophy which are given out at the after-race party where light refreshments are served. Each year, the organizers design the T-shirts based on the golf club bag tags.
Runners do not have to worry about cars, traffic or boonie dogs.
The entry fees are $5 for those under 18 and $10 for adults.
Registration forms are available at Hornet in Tamuning, Onward Mangilao Golf Club or via www.mangilaogolf.com. Race director is Rose Aquino.
(Information obtained from a press release)
