SOME 1,300 runners have signed up for the I run for Integrity Towards a New Philippines slated on Feb. 5 at the Ayala Terraces which is more than the numbers they expected.

Initially, organizers were only preparing for 1,000 runners to join the cause-oriented program but overwhelming response in the registration might even get them to 1,500 runners.

The bulk of the participants are from private companies, non-government offices and BPOs that are supporting the race advocacy. Currently, Marco Polo is fielding the biggest number of runners with 92.

Before the race, the runners will recite a pledge to uphold a life of integrity.

“We want them to remember that there would always be ethical ways of doing things,” said Cahea Ang of European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines.

The top finishers will be awarded with cash and medals at the end of the race

The best finisher in the 12K men’s and women’s open will receive P4,000, while the 6K and 3K winners will take home P2,000 and P1,000 respectively.

“We are not giving big cash prizes because this run is more on creating awareness among runners,” said Ang.

Registration had been extended until tomorrow at the Ayala Active Zone and Chris Sports SM.

Source: Sun Star Network; News; 02 February 2012