THE PUNISHER Ultramarathon returns in its 12th Edition, bringing in challenging and scenic routes for participants, which will launch on May 30-31 at the Botanical Garden, Island Garden City of Samal.
This year’s race will offer four categories of 15K, 25K, 50K, and 80K with routes going to Mt. Puting Bato, the highest peak in the island. Participants will also traverse a jungle trail, waterfalls along the course, and a natural spring.
The 50K and 80K distances will require runners to have at least a 21K finisher (50K) and 42K finisher (80K) as well as a medical certificate, while the 15K and 25K distances are designed for beginners, kids, and seniors.
Race director Doi Calbes said that more than 100 participants have registered out of the targeted 150 since the registration began last Jan 15, 2026. The race will also expect those coming from other countries, such as France and Japan.
A mandatory checklist will include a hydration pack (at least 1.5 liters), headlamp with extra battery, headwear, medkit, and other essentials.
Initiated in 2014 and organized by Vertical To Sky Sports Management, the annual Punisher Ultramarathon is part of the Asia Trail Master (ATM) Championship series.
Athletes who finish the 80K and 100-mile categories will earn one point for the “Grandmaster Quest,” which requires them to finish six different races outside of their resident country on the ATM calendar within a period of two years.
