Finding a shared goal at the BPI #BestLifeRun Corporate Race

A challenging 1.3-kilometer hike in Baler was the unexpected spark for Unibanker Renz Adalin’s running journey. Now gearing up for his third consecutive BPI #BestLifeRun Corporate Race, Renz sees the race as a powerful tradition of personal growth and shared purpose.

Renz shares his story from that mountain trail to the finish line, along with essential tips for new runners ready to start their own "running phase."

How did you first get into running? What challenges did you face when you were just starting out?

If there was one incident that led me to running, it was during one of the trips I had the last few years. I was with my then-girlfriend (we’re married now!), and we joined a tour to visit a waterfall in Baler, which entailed some hiking in it.

The hike shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes traversing 1.3 kilometers. The hike was a bit uphill, but two-thirds in the trail we literally fell on our backs, and we almost passed out.

Pagkabalik namin from that trip, first day back in Manila, nag-walking kami agad sa Ayala Triangle. When we started to frequently run in the area, na-engganyo kami dun sa mga runners around the area. Na-entice kami to join the groups running in the area.

The very first challenge is finding the time to do it. Because I’m in Operations, I never got to have work-from-home set-up. To someone who physically reports onsite five days a week, finding the time is really challenging. The other is having to commit. You really must find the discipline to commit to the change you’ve made.

What made you join the Best Life Run in 2024?

When it was announced that there’s a Best Life Run, enticing siya because may involvement ng one of the top running organizers na which was RunRio.

You’ve joined this event for the past two years—what keeps you coming back? How would you describe the atmosphere or community during these runs? 

Well, some races stay with you forever — BPI #BestLifeRun is one of those. It really stays with you forever. It doesn’t just shape the runner but also shapes the community.

Maganda kasi with Best Life Run is naging bonding siya ng corporate because you have to enter as a team, hindi lang siya individual. And that’s the beauty of it. Pero pag dating dun sa race day, lahat kayo magkakakampi. All of you share the same goal which is to cross that finish line. I’ve never experienced another sporting event where yung lahat kayo same ng end goal.

How do you usually prepare leading up to the Best Life Run race? 

Well, no distance is a joke. Whether it’s 1k, 3k, 5k, or 21k, regardless of the race, I highly suggest that people prepare. It doesn’t have to be intensive, na may coach ka. Just go out, jump ka lang, walk ka lang, basta may preparation. On race day, mag-stretch ka lang, just so you don’t surprise your muscles. You’re preparing your body and your muscles for the activity you will be doing. It is important also to hydrate and eat well the day before.

What would you say to someone who’s thinking about joining the BPI #BestLifeRun but feels hesitant?

Ibabalik ko yung question – what’s stopping you? This is being offered na by your company, your friends are gonna be there, magaling yung organizers, yung race kits idedeliver na sa office. Basically, wala ka nang iisipin pa. If you’re looking for an entry into the running phase, I highly suggest you go with the Best Life Run. And even if wala ka masyadong kakilala, I still highly suggest you join the Best Life Run. Marami kang mami-meet sa races who will root and cheer for you! It’s fun.

Why do you think people should sign up for this year’s run? 

Siguro let’s start by saying that BPI organizes Best Life Run and this year is BPI’s 175th anniversary. And for 175 years, it has been one of the top players in nation building. And the Best Life Run is no different. This is an avenue of BPI to get people together—for a lot of people to join and engage in a very healthy and active activity that promotes wellness and camaraderie particularly at this time. To do that with your colleagues, friends, and family on a very nice platform like Best Life Run is too good of an opportunity to miss.