Every trail tells a story, and on race weekend, the rugged lands of Mapawa opened its pages once again. Runners from all over the region gathered at the foothills of Cagayan de Oro with one purpose—answer the call of the Ultra Trail Mapawa (UTM). Organized by Merge Production, this edition delivered everything trail runners dream about: breathtaking views, unforgiving climbs, rolling heat, and a finish line that meant more than just a medal.
A Race Built for the Bold
UTM has long been known as one of Mindanao’s most scenic and toughest trail gatherings, and this year reminded everyone why. Participants were greeted with a mix of single tracks, steep ascents, technical downhills, open ridges, and forest canopies that tested every runner’s pacing and grit. The morning sun didn’t wait to show its intensity either—it rose early and stayed merciless, turning several sections into blazing gauntlets.
Athletes chose from multiple categories such as the 50KM, 25KM, 15KM, and 6KM distances, each offering a taste of the terrain’s character. It didn’t matter what you signed up for; Mapawa had a challenge ready.
The Heartbeat of the Trail Community
To the ordinary eye, racing looks simple: run, sweat, finish. But anyone who witnessed—or participated in—UTM would know that trail running is a community breathing together.
First-timers anxiously eyed the map at the starting line, while veterans calmed them down with stories of previous races. Parents ran beside kids. Friends cheered relentlessly. Volunteers at aid stations clapped and shouted encouragement with the energy of a concert crowd. And supporters… well, they ran their own race too—snapping photos, handing out cold drinks, and shouting runners’ names like they were champions.
It’s moments like these that remind everyone: in trail running, you’re never really alone.
The Elements Became the Enemy—and the Mentor
If there’s one thing runners will never forget about this edition, it’s the sun. Open ridgelines exposed them to direct heat, forcing hydration strategy to become the day’s biggest priority. On the flip side, shaded forests offered sweet moments of recovery, only to lead into climbs that demanded mental strength.
But the scenery made up for the struggle. Wide landscapes painted with greens and golds created postcard-worthy views. Waterfalls and streams provided welcome cool-downs. Every turn rewarded runners with something new to marvel at—if they had enough energy to notice.
Stories from the Dirt
Every medal at UTM comes with a journey carved into it. Some runners were celebrating personal comebacks from injuries; others were chasing their first trail finish. A few even trained for months, balancing work, family, and late-night hill repeats.
At the finish line, we witnessed tears, laughter, cramping legs, collapsing bodies, and the beautiful moment when runners hug the person who paced them through doubt. One finisher said, “It wasn’t the trail I conquered—it was the voice in my head saying I couldn’t.”
And that’s the truth of trail running: the real competition is internal.
Volunteers: The Unsung Heroes
No event lives without its backbone, and UTM’s backbone showed up big.
From marshals guiding runners through confusing forks and safety checkpoints, to paramedics ready for emergencies, to hydration station crews handing cold sponges like lifelines—every individual offered more than their duty. They offered heart.
Many didn’t just provide water; they provided belief.
Partner Brands that Powered the Race
UTM was made stronger by partner brands who contributed hydration, nutrition, equipment, recovery services, race logistics, and prizes. Their presence elevated the runner experience from a simple race to a full community celebration. Merge Production extends gratitude to every brand that saw the value in supporting the trail movement.
Responsible Trails: Leave No Trace
One of UTM’s biggest statements this year was its advocacy to care for the environment. Runners were constantly reminded to throw trash only at designated zones and to respect wildlife. Merge Production continues to champion environmental stewardship—because if we want to run these trails forever, we must protect them today.
And the participants responded: aid stations remained clean, checkpoints were tidy, and the finish line stayed organized. This is the kind of culture we want to keep alive.
The Finish Line: More Than a Banner
When runners turned the final corner and saw the arc with the UTM branding, something shifted. Exhaustion became adrenaline. Pain became purpose. Suddenly, legs found power. Cameras came out. Cheers got louder.
Crossing the UTM finish line meant:
✓ You survived the heat.
✓ You conquered the climbs.
✓ You listened when your body shouted “stop” and answered, “not yet.”
That moment stays with you.
The Aftermath: Sore Legs, Full Hearts
Hours after the final runner finished, conversations echoed across the venue about favorite segments, unexpected cramps, beautiful views, and the next race. That’s the magic of trail running—you finish tired, but you crave more.
Social media posts exploded with photos of dusty shoes, muddy calves, sunburnt arms, and medals held proudly. And everyone seemed to agree on one thing:
Ultra Trail Mapawa left its mark.
What Comes Next
Merge Production isn’t slowing down. The trail community continues to grow, and events like UTM fuel that passion. Rumors are already floating about the next edition—maybe new distances, fresh features, or surprise elements. One thing is sure: if you missed this year, don’t miss the next.
UTM isn’t just a race. It’s a pilgrimage for runners willing to test themselves against nature, terrain, and doubt. It’s where friendships form, confidence grows, and the wild welcomes you home.
And as every finisher learned:
When the trail calls, you answer.