What does it take to keep running strong at 61? During the Manila leg of the Philippine Half Marathon Series, veteran runner Greg Garcia proved it’s all about consistency, community, and the joy of every stride.
In a sport where many chase faster times and new personal bests, Greg Garcia reminds us that the real victory in running is longevity — the strength to keep going, year after year.
At 61 years old, the proud runner from San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan clocked an impressive 1:37:55 finish, claiming first place in the 21km 60–64 male category at the Philippine Half Series 2025.
But beyond medals and rankings, what truly stands out is how running has become his lifelong companion — one that keeps him active, disciplined, and full of energy.
[ALSO READ: Simon Enriquez, Maricar Camacho top Manila Half Marathon 2025]
With 15 years of running experience and eight consecutive National Milo Marathon qualifications, Greg proves that consistency pays off more than anything else.
“Nag-e-enjoy po, takbo-takbo lang po, parang may konting benefits sa katawan,” he shared.
“Tuloy-tuloy po ‘yung pagiging masigla ko. Nakikita rin po ng iba, dire-diretso lang po ang training.”
Greg Garcia clinched 1st place in the 21km 60–64 male category at the PUMA Philippine Half Series 2025.
Greg’s philosophy is simple but powerful — show up, stay consistent, and run with a community that fuels your motivation.
“Mag-tiyaga lang po kahit may nararamdaman. Basta dapat consistent. Consistent sa training, may program. Tapos sasama sa mga kaibigan, may community. Tapos mag-join sa mga running events, ‘yun po ang pinakamaganda.”
For many runners, Greg’s story is a reminder that the finish line isn’t the end goal — it’s the lifestyle that comes with running.
It’s waking up early for a jog when others are still asleep, training even when the legs feel heavy, and celebrating every kilometer as a gift.
His daughter Pau, 29, who also runs regularly, says Greg’s dedication has shaped their family’s values.
“Priority sa family namin ang health. In the long run, alam namin na magbe-benefit kami,” she said.
“My dad, every morning, naco-complete niya ‘yung mga training niya. From that pa lang, very motivated kami.”
Greg Garcia's daughter, Pau.
Greg’s journey teaches us that running isn’t just about speed — it’s about staying strong, healthy, and happy as we grow older.
Because while fast runners may grab the headlines, consistent runners like Greg inspire the rest of us to keep going, no matter the pace or age.
The PUMA Philippine Half Series 2025 continues to carry this message across the country, celebrating health and community through 21K, 10K, and 5K categories open to runners of all levels.
Next races:
- Davao – October 19, 2025 | Azuela Cove, Davao City
- Cebu – October 26, 2025 | City Di Mare, Cebu City
- Cagayan de Oro – November 23, 2025 | Centrio Mall, Cagayan de Oro City
- Iloilo – November 30, 2025 | Megaworld, Iloilo Business Park
- Clark – December 14, 2025 | Filinvest Mimosa, Clark Freeport
Each leg offers not only finisher memorabilia and race kits but also the chance to experience every city’s unique landmarks and local flavor — proving that wherever the road takes you, running will always be a journey worth taking.
[ALSO READ: Go Wild across the Philippines: Half Marathon series 2025 kicks off ]
Watch the interview here:
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Inna Mina is a sportswriter with a passion for telling stories that go beyond the scoreboard.
She covers running, athletics, and other major Philippine sporting events, while also following grassroots sports, athlete journeys, and women in sports. Her work also includes lifestyle stories on health, fitness, and community.