Ctrl Alt Run: Where Techies Traded Keyboards for Running Shoes

The sky was still dark when we arrived at Parqal, Parañaque, near Mall of Asia. A cool breeze swept through the starting area as runners stretched, warmed up, and exchanged excited chatter. But this wasn’t just any running event—this was Ctrl Alt Run, the first-ever race designed specifically for tech professionals in the Philippines.

Runners from all over the country had traveled to Manila for this event, ready to swap lines of code for strides on the pavement. The atmosphere was electric, a mix of nerves and excitement as participants prepared to take on their chosen distance.

The Race Begins

As the announcer counted down, we lined up for the 10K race, which had an early 5:30 AM gunstart. The 5K and 3K participants followed at 5:45 AM, filling the streets with the rhythmic pounding of footsteps. The city was just waking up, but we were already on the move.

The course was well-prepared, with water stations at key points to keep runners hydrated and emergency response teams on standby, ensuring safety for everyone. Each turn of the route brought new motivation—runners pacing together, strangers cheering each other on, and volunteers offering support with bright smiles.

More Than Just a Run

Somewhere around the halfway mark, I found myself running alongside fellow tech enthusiasts, chatting about everything from programming languages to marathon training. That’s the thing about running—it brings people together, no matter their background.

As we pushed forward, I had the chance to reconnect with Reymart Canuel from GDG Baguio, an old acquaintance from past tech events. I also met Darla S. David, a familiar name in the community. And of course, members of Open Source Software PH (OSSPH) were there, reminding me how tech and open collaboration extend beyond the digital world.

Crossing the Finish Line

The last stretch of the race was tough, but as the finish line came into view, a surge of adrenaline kicked in. Cheers erupted from the sidelines, encouraging runners to give that final push. Crossing that finish line wasn’t just about completing a race—it was about proving to ourselves that we could step outside our usual routines and take on new challenges.

Looking Ahead

After the race, as we cooled down and swapped stories over post-run snacks, it was clear that Ctrl Alt Run wasn’t just an event—it was the start of something bigger. It showed that tech professionals don’t just build software and solve complex problems; we also have the drive to push our limits, both on and off the track.

This was just the beginning. With the tech-running community growing stronger, I can’t wait to see where the next race takes us. See you at the starting line! 🔥👟

Photo Highlights from Ctrl Alt Run 📸

No race story is complete without capturing the moments that made it unforgettable. Here are some shots from the event: