Fitness
How the running community in the Philippines continues to grow
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For many running enthusiasts and athletes, sportscaster and event host Rizza Diaz is a familiar face in some of the biggest race events in the country.
And this former UAAP courtside reporter for the National University Bulldogs has seen the immense growth of the running community in the Philippines.
GMANetwork.com got the chance to interview Rizza Diaz at the sidelines of the EastWest Dream Run 2026 media launch last July 2 at the Electric Garden in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
Hosting these big marathons and running events really puts a smile on her face. She also feels inspired and energized when she sees people pushing themselves to cross that finish line.
Rizza told GMANetwork.com, “It is very inspiring and I know you see me on every weekend basis. Sa dami ng events, sa dami ng runs. But I tell you each and every run has a different feel. [It] has a different vibe, different character.
“But all together, each one is at the end very inspiring. Kasi, you will see runners of all levels, of different goals. But everyone is trying to finish and cross that finish line.
“So as someone who has been given this opportunity you know to send them off sa gun start and to meet them sa race village, when they finally claim the medals, and we are going to do the awarding ceremony, it's an overwhelming joy and inspiration na kahit hindi mo sila kilala, you are happy for them.”
INSET: Rizza Inside
IAT: Rizza Diaz working as a host in a race event xx Source: diaz_rizza (IG)
An occasional runner herself, Rizza shared why running has become this popular especially with the help of the community that further fueled its growth.
“It's a good start to get you moving. You don't have advanced skills--- everyone knows how to walk, everyone knows how to run. So, you could start with running, walking, and jogging.” Rizza noted.
“Now in the event marami na rin run clubs, it's a perfect venue to get started again regardless of your fitness levels, because there is a very welcoming and supportive community na tutulong din sa'yo.”
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Asked how she prepared for an early morning event for RUNRIO, the host answered, “Kami sa RUNRIO our call time, ay way ahead of your gun start. There's no sleep, barely any, before races.
“But that's okay, it's a minor sacrifice that we make to make sure of course everyone is ready.'
With a smile, she added that a good cup of coffee also helps. “Personally, I have adjusted my body clock on weekends. I already know how to pace myself with the help of coffee and adrenaline.”
Check out some of the moments at the EastWest Dream Run media launch below.
