On January 26, 2019, Saturday, the Diocese of Chalan Kanoa will hold its 2nd Annual 5K Walkathon as part of its activities lined up for Health Ministry this year aimed towards promoting healthy and active lifestyle among its parishioners and the community in general.
On this year’s 5K Walkathon, the Diocese invited a special guest who will talk about and lead a demonstration on the proper form and benefits of natural running to all the participants. Coach Julian I. Valencia from Cavite, Philippines is a certified triathlon as well as natural running and TRAP Level 1 community triathlon coach. A prominent figure in the field of triathlon not only in the Philippines but also in other parts of the world, he is a co-team captain of Herbalife Triathlon Team and has competed in a number of Olympic, Ironman 70.3 and Ironman 140.6 triathlons as well as bike, swim and marathon races. Coach Jay, as he is fondly called, is always a podium finisher. In February 2014 he was one of the first 2 Filipinos who successfully crossed Robben Island to Bloughberg, South Africa, a punishing 8.6 km. swim in 12-15 degrees Celsius water without a wetsuit.
As a triathlon coach for the past 6 years specializing on beginners and those working professional with very limited time for training he developed his own program based on the capability and time availability of an athlete. He has coached several athletes that successfully finished Olympic, Ironman 70.3 and Ironman 140.6 distances as well as marathon races. He also conducts run clinics and wellness talks organized by companies to help their employees enjoy a more active and healthier lifestyle.
Part of his schedule on this trip to Saipan in addition to his participation in the 5K Walkathon is to conduct a talk and demonstration to all the clergy and staff of the Diocese emphasizing on health and fitness, and on natural running. He will also conduct a presentation to beginner triathletes on island.
The Diocese of Chalan Kanoa is very much excited about this collaboration and hopes to see as many participants as possible to this event. This year’s 5K Walkathon will begin at the parking lot of Kristo Rai Church. Free health screening and other activities are available for everyone. Participants of the walkathon will be walking along Beach Road towards Quartermaster Road and back. Registration will begin at 6:00 A.M. and go-time is at 7:00 A.M.
Let us walk together for a healthier CNMI!
