James Licauco breaks down what makes running so rewarding
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Athlete-influencer James Licauco explains why he got into running and what it was like doing a half-mary in Melbourne, Australia.
Former Ateneo de Manila University volleyball star and influencer James Licauco scratched off an item from his runner bucket list after he recently competed in the 21KM category of the Run Melbourne 2026 event last July 19.
The younger brother of Kapuso star David Licauco posted some highlights on Instagram, when he finished his half-mary in Melbourne, Australia. According to him, “Wow I just finished my first half marathon!"
“Goal was a sub 2 turned to a sub 1:50 to a maybe I could run a bit faster. I had the worst HRV, sleep, and training readiness scores entering the race so trust that I didn't know if I could make it out alive.”
During the grand launch of the new Pepsi Extra Fizz at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on July 25, GMANetwork.com caught up with James, wherein he gladly talked about his experience running a 21K in Australia.
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“I think it's very different kasi unang-una malamig sa Melbourne, winter time ngayon dun,” James told GMANetwork.com. “And I think most especially 'yung vibe rin e, ang ganda nung greenery. Ang daming parks sa Melbourne it's a very new experience.”
James admitted that he only recently started taking running seriously and it is vastly different from his previous training as a volleyball player.
“Recently lang ako nag-seryoso sa running journey ko and it wasn't easy, my problem was injuries, tuhod ganiyan. Masakit katawan ko.”
He added, “Pressure sa tuhod iba e sa pagtakbo. But I really recommend it kasi one thing na na-stuck sa utak ko the louder you run, the quieter the mind. So 'yun yung parang motto ko when I run na if magulo ang utak, ang dami ako iniisip takbo na lang ako. That's why I recommend it.”
With other running enthusiasts hoping to cross the finish line for their upcoming 21K race or even doing a full marathon, James shared valuable advice on how runners can prepare for race day.
“I think number one talaga training. Very important na mag-prepare ka for it, kasi baka bigla magulat ka biglang iba 'yung course dun, iba 'yung feeling. So, important na ready ka for whatever is coming.
“Tsaka, before race day kumain kayo ng marami. Carb load!”
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