A tale of ultra running friends turn ultra champs
Theirs is a friendship that blossomed out of their common passion - running.
When their paths first crossed while hitting the same gym seven years ago, they have become inseparable.
Thus, the M&M tandem was born in the Cebu running community.
And after years of training altogether under the watchful eyes of coach Jorry Ycong, they started reaping the fruits of hard work they planted.
Testament to that, Marlita Busa and Mary Luz Shimizu always have a decent finish in every race they joined, from short distance to full marathon and ultra races. Just last week, Busa and Shimizu basked in the glow of what is by far their most memorable victory after the pride of Igat Runners completed a one-two finish in the NegOr 100 Miles Ultra Marathon in Dumaguete City.
Busa topped the women's category of the grueling 160-kilometer race with a time of 31 hours, 45 minutes and 55 seconds. Shimizu came out second with a 32:54:51 clocking.
They're just a perfect blend.
"In an ultra race, it is very important to have a partner because you're much less likely to encounter trouble if you have company," said Busa. "Also, you are assured that there's someone who will take care and guide you if something goes wrong with your running form," said Busa.
That's exactly what happened in most latest challenge they conquered.
Busa narrated that when they reached kilometer 85 in Sta. Catalina, Shimizu wasn't feeling well and was drowsy.
"At that point, I decided to tag her along with me so she won't get a DNF mark (did not finish). We only parted ways in the last 30 kilometers when the route was no longer difficult to traverse," Busa said. "Given the distance of the race, it feels absolutely amazing to cross the finish line and I was doubly happy knowing that we were the top two finishers."
Their partnership has already been tested many times. Their bond now is as hard as granite.
As they look forward to their next adventure on the road, Busa and Shimizu have one loud battlecry:"Friends forever and no matter how difficult the challenge will be, we must go together."