Here's some of my pre-wedding photos I took of them in Crosswinds Tagaytay. It's a memorable place for them since that's where they first met. Looking forward to their wedding next year!
Showing posts with label triathlon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label triathlon. Show all posts
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Corporate Woman Meets the Triathlete: Kirs and Moi Pre-Nup photos
Kirs and I go way back in college. We've gone a long way and we practically know each other's ins and outs. I'm just so happy to see her bloom and so in looove. Though Kirs and Moi are from two different worlds--Kirs , a power dresser enterprise account manager in a huge telco, Moi, a swimming coach and champion triathlete, I know they're a great pair and they are in good hands.
Here's some of my pre-wedding photos I took of them in Crosswinds Tagaytay. It's a memorable place for them since that's where they first met. Looking forward to their wedding next year!
Here's some of my pre-wedding photos I took of them in Crosswinds Tagaytay. It's a memorable place for them since that's where they first met. Looking forward to their wedding next year!
Saturday, August 27, 2011
IronMan 70.3 Philippines 2011: Race report (from a photographer's perspective)
On its third year, Globe Telecom, who was a presenting sponsor in the Cobra Ironman 70.3 Philippines Camarines Sur, brought their triathlon team to participate in the age-group and relay categories in the country’s most prestigious triathlon event. It was certainly my pleasure to be one of the photographers of Globe Champions Triathlon (GCT) Team in this year’s race. Though I’ve already done sports photography in several triathlon events (like SubIT), it was my first time to document the IronMan event, which was like 10 times more huge and more overwhelming for me.
One of my roommates was my good friend Vanessa who was part of the GCT Team. This helped me wake up really early and get ready at 3am on the race day. I took my breakfast and brought with me a banana and peanut butter sandwich since I knew I would need that later on. By the time we reached the body markings area, it was still cool and dark. I told my photographer partner SJ to bring a black garbage bag for me to protect our camera gear—just in case it rains. SJ and I agreed to go on separate ways since we want to collect diverse photos taken in different locations. I arrived early by the big lake where the mass start would begin and witnessed the moon setting reflecting in the water. In a few minutes, everyone was getting warmed up for the swim. And in a few minutes, my guess was right, it started drizzling on and off.
Nevertheless, I started shooting my team before the gun start as they were all fresh and psyched up. I was getting warmed up myself, wondering what the day would bring.
I also zoomed in to some of the world's best traithletes who joined the event as the host introduced them to the crowd. I could hardly understand their names at that time and it was only after the competition I learned they were the pros—THE IronMan superstars: Belinda Granger, Amanda Stevens, Katya Meyers, Pete Jacobs, Jesse Thomas, Cameron Brown, et al.
Belinda Granger who eventually who won first among the women.
Amanda Stevens clocked in at second place.
1 means Pete Jacobs who grabbed his second win as the champion in IronMan Phils.
After the first man got out the water (hello, Pete Jacobs!), I rushed to the next lake where the second round of swim would take place. Bingo! I found a spot where I was on the edge of the water near where the athletes entered. For me, the location was KEY. Thanks to my telephoto lens, I've never gotten this close in the swim part.
As the adrenaline rush kicked in on me, I walked a long way to get out of the lake area. Next, I had to take the bike shots. And I meant GREAT bike shots, whatever it takes. This was where I was pressured the most as most of the team members were requesting for this. I met up with Mark, one of the avid Globe supporters (Nessa's boyfriend), and we decided to go to the highway. We rented a motorbike and rode with one of the locals to get us there. For me, it was a perfect position: It was where the bikers would turn, it had a Globe logo (it was a requirement) and some crowds on the background, and I only saw two photographers present. I guess not everyone has this frame.
I already felt the strain in my hands and arms as I held on to my heavy lens. I knew a monopod is a must but unfortunately I don't own one yet. Add to that the harsh elements of the rain! The weather was totally different from the previous years when it was extremely humid. Mark had to get one of those big picnic table umbrellas from one of the local stores in the area (with the permission of the owner of course) and we got under it to keep us dry. What a huge relief! (And little did I notice some kids going under our shelter as well...)
By the time we decided to go back to the run course, the driver of our motorbike was gone, despite telling him to wait for us in our agreed location. We couldn't blame him though because we really took our time there. We rented a pedicab going back. "Manong, pwede na kayong sumali sa IronMan (you can already join IronMan)," Mark kidded the driver as he was fast enough to bring us back.
I wanted the Mt. Isarog backdrop during the run route or the "rice cooker" fields as they call it. But then, I learned it was FAR and I wouldn't have the finish line shot. Good thing my partner SJ took care of the close up finish line photos while I took care of shooting them nearing the final stretch, giving their big exhales and all that they've got. The overcast was still there with moments of rain or the sun peeping out. My Vibrams were soaked and I hate the icky feeling so I took it off. I also had to give.
With everything that I went through, I guess my whole IronMan experience was just NOTHING compared to the athletes' 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike, and 13.1-mile run—the distance circuit of the IronMan 70.3 series. While I don't mind not earning the title of being an "IronMan," I'm proud that this race took me to a higher level in shooting sports. I felt like I was also living the IronMan mantra of “ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. ®”, anyway. :)
Congratulations again to Globe Champions Triathlon Team and all of the IronMan finishers! :)
* * *
Sunday, August 7, 2011
One week to go 'til Ironman 70.3 Philippines!
The countdown begins! This is not just any other triathlon race. From local and international triathlete participants, the vast scenery in Camarines Sur, to the festive mood of the sports party, it's the country’s mega sports event we're looking forward to. Actually, my triathlete friends have already been counting down the days to this since three months ago. At this point, it's already taper time for them.
"For them" because I'm not one of those who are going to compete! (I'm not that crazy! Kidding ;)) I'll be one of the photographers of Team Globe in Cobra Energy IronMan 70.3 Philippines. Even if I know I'll have to wake up at 3:00am for their call time, stay under the heat of sun, follow them everywhere (I have to know the strategic locations already), I know it's going to be all worth it... for the love of Globe! And sports photography. :)
It's 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike, and 42 km run. How it can you possibly do that?! Well, certainly it takes an IRONMAN and IRONWOMAN to do that. As they break new records, compete with other triathletes and themselves, and finish the race, I definitely SALUTE them. I'll follow you around, guys!
This would be my first time to shoot in that event. But to get me psyched up, here are some of the photos I took Subic International Triathlon in 2011 and 2010. :)
All roads lead to Camarines Sur Sports Complex! See you at the finish line on August 14, 2011!
"For them" because I'm not one of those who are going to compete! (I'm not that crazy! Kidding ;)) I'll be one of the photographers of Team Globe in Cobra Energy IronMan 70.3 Philippines. Even if I know I'll have to wake up at 3:00am for their call time, stay under the heat of sun, follow them everywhere (I have to know the strategic locations already), I know it's going to be all worth it... for the love of Globe! And sports photography. :)
It's 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike, and 42 km run. How it can you possibly do that?! Well, certainly it takes an IRONMAN and IRONWOMAN to do that. As they break new records, compete with other triathletes and themselves, and finish the race, I definitely SALUTE them. I'll follow you around, guys!
This would be my first time to shoot in that event. But to get me psyched up, here are some of the photos I took Subic International Triathlon in 2011 and 2010. :)
All roads lead to Camarines Sur Sports Complex! See you at the finish line on August 14, 2011!
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Uncontainable April!
The Traveling Havaianas has been on a roll this April! For me, summer ain’t complete without these essentials: Havaianas, Nikon camera, and a great sense of adventure. Here’s a taste of some my exploits that made me quite busy all throughout the month:
Davao City.
What I came for: A local trip for 3 days.
What I saw: Eden Nature Park and Resort. This 80-hectare park is just approximately 40 km. south of Davao City or 45 mins. drive going up from the city proper. It’s like going for a quick drive to Baguio. Enjoyed the cool crisp mountain air and took photos of pine trees, gardens, and peacocks. We even camped out for the day, brought and cooked food in one of the campsites in the area.
What I conquered: My fear of durian. Well, not exactly. I’ve never tasted durian because of its pungent smell (even durian candies, jams or tarts) but when I’ve tried durian coffee, I deeply recommend that this is a must in Davao. You can get one in Bluegre Café or buy last minute in the airport.
One of the peacocks in Eden Nature Park.
Aliwan Fiesta.
What I came for: The Aliwan Fiesta in Quirino Grandstand to shoot with Zone V-ers.
What I saw: Contingents from the most popular festivals throughout the Philippines vying for a million-peso stake and for the prestige of being the best of the best. I love the color, diversity, ingenuity of each province represented. To name a few, some of the festivals who competed were: Panagbenga Festival of Baguio, Kalakachara Festival of Batangas, Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo, Kadayawan Festival of Davao, and Lembuhong Festival in South Cotabato.
What I conquered: To be honest, I’ve never experienced shooting in a fiesta before this so I didn’t know how it feels like. Since it was my first time, shooting this HUGE gathering of our Philippine festivals with massive contingents of streetdancers (not to mention competing photographers!) was already a feat for me.
This is just some of the colors in the festival.
Senakulo on a Good Friday.
What I came for: The Senakulo in Cainta, Rizal to shoot with Zone V-ers.
What I saw: The devotees who depicted the Stations of the Cross and the crucifixion of Christ were almost real, with the props, colorful costumes, acting, the works. (It wasn't really like in Cutud, Pampanga where it was hot, bloody, and dusty.)
What I conquered: It was another first for me—first time to shoot this part of Filipino culture. The most challenging part here actually is rising up early to get to our meeting place at 6:00am and shooting under the heat of the sun from 7:00-10:00am which already felt like being under the highest noon.
Just so you know, Master Willie dV got his winning shot for 7 Deadly Sins from this man last year. Here's my take on him.
Skit.
Green Water Rafting.
What I came for: Went back for a relaxing time, not on the beach, but on the green water lakes of San Pablo, Laguna.
What I saw: The three out of the seven lakes of San Pablo: Pandin Lake, its twin lake Yanbo, and Sampalok Lake. We took a ride on a bamboo raft and sipped fresh buko juice as we enjoyed the refreshing hues of greens and blues in Pandin Lake. We then crossed over a plateau to see the neighboring Lake Yambo. After endless FB profile-picturing, we rested under a balete tree, which was our jump-off point for a swim in the lake. We also visited Café Lago overlooking Sampalok Lake and met with its owners Mr. Mandy Marino and his wife, environmentalist and promoter of San Pablo lakes, who would gladly tell its visitors about the story of the lake’s re-birth.
What I conquered: Being able to find those hidden serene lakes in Laguna. It was so hidden that we always get lost finding them! If you’re the type who easily gets frustrated, you need to have a lot of patience and a sense of direction and humor.
Baguio Countryside.
What I came for: Another local trip for 5 days.
What I saw: Since I’ve seen most of the tourist-y spots in the city of Baguio, I took a sidetrip to its countryside. I've always wanted to check out BenCab Museum and Tam-awan Village which are both a bit far off from the city. Not only did I visit the artworks of Benedicto Cabrera (or BenCab as he is more popularly known) and other fellow artists, I also saw and took photos of the breathtaking scenery of the gardens, forests, and surrounding mountains in the BenCab Museum. I also went to Tam-awan Village, which has become a venue of art exhibits and workshops and gives visitors a deeper understanding of the Cordillera culture. I thought I could catch some artists there (I heard they can sketch your profile right there) but unfortunately, there was none at that time.
What I conquered: I went on a solo traveler and art appreciation mode. I took an FX to Kawang rd. in Baguio market. Then I rode a jeepney in that terminal going to Km. 6 Asin Road for the BenCab Museum. A 15-20 mins. breezy ride. Then I rode another jeep going to Quezon Hill Road from Asin Road for Tam-awan Village. In short, I just commuted alone with just a map, a camera, and a bit of courage with me. No problem in commuting because of the cool breeze!
Subic International Triathlon.
What I came for: To shoot our company’s triathlon team in the Subic International Triathlon (SubIT 2011).
What I saw: Hundreds of top foreign triathletes for the Elite category and local triathlon teams for Men and Women Adult and Relay Team competition. Triathlon is indeed the fastest growing sport. The number of participants definitely grew from last year making this year’s staging more tough and exciting. Unfortunately, I also witnessed several bike accidents; a friend of mine being one of them. This event is definitely action-filled! You’ll never know what will happen!
What I conquered: Being able to wake up at the wee hours of 3:00am for the call time (2 days in a row), stay under the sweltering Subic sun, follow them everywhere, it was worth it… All for the love of my company’s team!
Whew! So that’s how The Traveling Havaianas roll, as she lives her life to the full. ‘Til the next adventure!
Davao City.
What I came for: A local trip for 3 days.
What I saw: Eden Nature Park and Resort. This 80-hectare park is just approximately 40 km. south of Davao City or 45 mins. drive going up from the city proper. It’s like going for a quick drive to Baguio. Enjoyed the cool crisp mountain air and took photos of pine trees, gardens, and peacocks. We even camped out for the day, brought and cooked food in one of the campsites in the area.
What I conquered: My fear of durian. Well, not exactly. I’ve never tasted durian because of its pungent smell (even durian candies, jams or tarts) but when I’ve tried durian coffee, I deeply recommend that this is a must in Davao. You can get one in Bluegre Café or buy last minute in the airport.
One of the peacocks in Eden Nature Park.Aliwan Fiesta.
What I came for: The Aliwan Fiesta in Quirino Grandstand to shoot with Zone V-ers.
What I saw: Contingents from the most popular festivals throughout the Philippines vying for a million-peso stake and for the prestige of being the best of the best. I love the color, diversity, ingenuity of each province represented. To name a few, some of the festivals who competed were: Panagbenga Festival of Baguio, Kalakachara Festival of Batangas, Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo, Kadayawan Festival of Davao, and Lembuhong Festival in South Cotabato.
What I conquered: To be honest, I’ve never experienced shooting in a fiesta before this so I didn’t know how it feels like. Since it was my first time, shooting this HUGE gathering of our Philippine festivals with massive contingents of streetdancers (not to mention competing photographers!) was already a feat for me.
This is just some of the colors in the festival.Senakulo on a Good Friday.
What I came for: The Senakulo in Cainta, Rizal to shoot with Zone V-ers.
What I saw: The devotees who depicted the Stations of the Cross and the crucifixion of Christ were almost real, with the props, colorful costumes, acting, the works. (It wasn't really like in Cutud, Pampanga where it was hot, bloody, and dusty.)
What I conquered: It was another first for me—first time to shoot this part of Filipino culture. The most challenging part here actually is rising up early to get to our meeting place at 6:00am and shooting under the heat of the sun from 7:00-10:00am which already felt like being under the highest noon.
Just so you know, Master Willie dV got his winning shot for 7 Deadly Sins from this man last year. Here's my take on him.
Skit.Green Water Rafting.
What I came for: Went back for a relaxing time, not on the beach, but on the green water lakes of San Pablo, Laguna.
What I saw: The three out of the seven lakes of San Pablo: Pandin Lake, its twin lake Yanbo, and Sampalok Lake. We took a ride on a bamboo raft and sipped fresh buko juice as we enjoyed the refreshing hues of greens and blues in Pandin Lake. We then crossed over a plateau to see the neighboring Lake Yambo. After endless FB profile-picturing, we rested under a balete tree, which was our jump-off point for a swim in the lake. We also visited Café Lago overlooking Sampalok Lake and met with its owners Mr. Mandy Marino and his wife, environmentalist and promoter of San Pablo lakes, who would gladly tell its visitors about the story of the lake’s re-birth.
What I conquered: Being able to find those hidden serene lakes in Laguna. It was so hidden that we always get lost finding them! If you’re the type who easily gets frustrated, you need to have a lot of patience and a sense of direction and humor.
Baguio Countryside.
What I came for: Another local trip for 5 days.
What I saw: Since I’ve seen most of the tourist-y spots in the city of Baguio, I took a sidetrip to its countryside. I've always wanted to check out BenCab Museum and Tam-awan Village which are both a bit far off from the city. Not only did I visit the artworks of Benedicto Cabrera (or BenCab as he is more popularly known) and other fellow artists, I also saw and took photos of the breathtaking scenery of the gardens, forests, and surrounding mountains in the BenCab Museum. I also went to Tam-awan Village, which has become a venue of art exhibits and workshops and gives visitors a deeper understanding of the Cordillera culture. I thought I could catch some artists there (I heard they can sketch your profile right there) but unfortunately, there was none at that time.
What I conquered: I went on a solo traveler and art appreciation mode. I took an FX to Kawang rd. in Baguio market. Then I rode a jeepney in that terminal going to Km. 6 Asin Road for the BenCab Museum. A 15-20 mins. breezy ride. Then I rode another jeep going to Quezon Hill Road from Asin Road for Tam-awan Village. In short, I just commuted alone with just a map, a camera, and a bit of courage with me. No problem in commuting because of the cool breeze!
Subic International Triathlon.
What I came for: To shoot our company’s triathlon team in the Subic International Triathlon (SubIT 2011).
What I saw: Hundreds of top foreign triathletes for the Elite category and local triathlon teams for Men and Women Adult and Relay Team competition. Triathlon is indeed the fastest growing sport. The number of participants definitely grew from last year making this year’s staging more tough and exciting. Unfortunately, I also witnessed several bike accidents; a friend of mine being one of them. This event is definitely action-filled! You’ll never know what will happen!
What I conquered: Being able to wake up at the wee hours of 3:00am for the call time (2 days in a row), stay under the sweltering Subic sun, follow them everywhere, it was worth it… All for the love of my company’s team!
Whew! So that’s how The Traveling Havaianas roll, as she lives her life to the full. ‘Til the next adventure!
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