Hey…how’s your Halloween?! ☺

Have a spooky fun Halloween!

Filipina defends title in adidas King of the Road Finals Malaysia

Pinay Champ Mary Grace delos Santos of the Philippines

Petaling Jaya, – Filipina runner Mary Grace Delos Santos was recently crowned Queen of the Road in the final leg of the adidas King of the Road (KOTR) South East Asia last October 20th, clocking in 1 hour and 3 minutes for the 16.8km distance.

Passion and determination filled the air when 11,000 runners came together in Malaysia to participate in the last leg of this year’s adidas King of the Road. Held along the New Pantai Expressway Highway, the run marks the 15^th edition which was officially flagged off by Y. Bhg. Dato’ Mohd Shafiq B. Abdullah of the Ministry of Works.

The run, which has a unique elevated route across three key districts – Subang Jaya, Petaling Jaya and Kuala Lumpur, also played host as the final leg of the prestigious running event

The top two reigning champions from the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia came together to compete for this year’s Regional adidas KOTR run, with the crown going to Sgt Boonthung Srisung of Thailand who completed the 16.8K SEA men’s category run in 52 minutes and 35 seconds and Delos Santos of the Philippines for the women’s category.

Delos Santos earned her ticket to the finals by being the defending champion of last year’s adidas KOTR Southeast Asia in Singapore. Fellow Filipinos Eduardo Buenavista and Mary Joy Tabal also joined her in the 16.8K run by being the first place finishers in their respective categories in the Philippine leg of the KOTR this year. Tabal finished strong, only a minute behind Delos Santos.

Sgt Boonthung Srisung of Thailand and Mary Grace delos Santos of the Philippines are this year’s adidas King and Queen of the Road

The theme for this year’s race is ‘Boost your run’, inspired by the latest adidas BOOST™ foam innovation which has revolutionized the running world with its debut in the market earlier this year. The new adidas BOOST™ range features groundbreaking cushioning technology, which provides the highest energy return in the running industry.

adidas has a long standing history in running and athletics dating back to 1928 when its founder, Adi Dassler, supplied Una Radke with a handmade pair of spikes to wear during the Olympic Games in Amsterdam. Many more heroes of athletics have followed including Jesse Owens, Emil Ziltopek, Al Oerter, Bob Beamon, Daley Thompson, Grete Waitz, Heike Henkel and Haile Gebrselassie.

Congrats Mary Grace….a well-deserved win for the Philippines! 

Post-it® Notes and Design Thinking: The Creative Problem-Solving Technique That May Change theWorld

So you think a Post-it® Note is only good for reminding you what to do or what to buy? Think again.

Post-it® Notes are at the very heart of Design Thinking — the multi-faceted approach in management circles that helps solve problems and conquers challenges. Business schools around the globe are now adding it to their list of courses. And business professors are writing books about it.

“Design thinking is a way of thinking about the world, and a way of approaching problems, with the human at its center”, explains Arriane Serafico co-founder of Designing.PH, the Wanderrgirl herself who helped draft The Philippine Design Competitiveness Act that aims to establish a national design policy for the country.

The 25-year-old good governance advocate says design thinking can be applied for both the private and public sectors. “Design thinking can allow businesses to create products and services that are more unique, engaging, and environmentally friendly. It can enable governments to be more forward-looking. It can push creativity and innovation for a country to stay globally competitive.”

Simply put, design thinking is a practical, creative resolution to solve problems or address issues to produce an improved future result. The approach blends EQ and IQ together to solve situations and achieve success.Design thinking harnesses the power of teams to work on a wide range of issues that can be applied at work, in various industries, your own life goals or even thinking up a way of designing a better Philippines.

Armed with Post-It Notes, markers and a whole lot of ideas design thinkers dare to re-design the world. Recently, 45 individuals (young and old) came up with proposed solutions to the challenge: How to Improve the Manila Tourist Experience. The 2-day Design Thinking Bootcamp looked like a “Post-it Party” as Arriane herself said, with ideas posted everywhere in the unique space of Meridian International (MINT) College, a “not your ordinary college” where “creativity, ingenuity and responsibility come together”.

“Any profession can benefit from design thinking,” Arianne adds.“And it’s not just some fancy new term of brainstorming. Ideation starts with the problem, instead of going straight to thinking about the solutions.”The first step is to start with empathy, to understand the problems from the end user’s perspective, then come up with the solution. This means listening to the concerns of clients and audiences — a stage often bypassed by teams and organizations”.

For design to be relevant, the designer must go outside the “drawing room” and experience the users’ situations and experiences. Assumptions and stereotypes won’t do. “It’s about human-centeredness, listening, observing, and being genuinely curious about the stories and values of users,” says Arianne.

Only after drawing insights from real-life observations can the next step of design thinking begin: Ideation. It is the process of brainstorming possible solutions to address the challenges faced by the users. Solving problems the same way, or by using a time-tested template won’t always work. Arriane recommends “divergent thinking” — looking at different perspectives to solve a problem, and an optimistic mindset that believes ideas will work despite signs of difficulty.

Prototyping, or bringing ideas to life, is the next step. Drawing from her three years of government experience, Arriane emphasizes the importance of letting people try an idea first and do modifications later. “I’ve seen a lot of projects which sounded good on paper, but when they are offered to the public, people don’t actually use them.”

Arianne says design thinkers must be ready to embrace modifications and accept the failure of a prototype. The key is to keep persisting and keep coming up with new ideas that will eventually solve problems from the end user’s perspective. When ideas start taking shape, a breakthrough isn’t far away, she says.

Arianne says the ideation process must be very tactile and visual. That’s why Post-It® Notes are ideal for design thinking. These multi-colored sticky papers are a staple in design thinking activities all over the world, and a favorite office and creative tool.

“My favorite part as a facilitator is letting my team members attack a wall on their own to rearrange Post-It® notes and move group ideas around while discussing them. These help form connections and allows them to build on each other’s ideas.” says Arriane.

The Play & Innovate bootcamp, in true design thinking fashion, is also one of the first prototypes for Designing.PH. To learn more about design thinking, log on to http://designing.ph/ and like them on Facebook: http://facebook.com/Designing.PH.

Post-it® is a trademark of 3M. For more information about the Post It® brand, visit www.post-it.com.ph and like 3M Philippines on Facebook for news and updates.

About 3M Philippines

3M captures the spark of new ideas and transforms them into thousands of ingenious products. Our culture of creative collaboration inspires a never-ending stream of powerful technologies that make life better. 3M is the innovation company that never stops inventing. With $30 billion in sales, 3M employs about 88,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 70 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com/ph or like 3M.Philippines on Facebook for news and updates.

 

DRose TV Ad: “Basketball Is Everything” — The Making

Soleus Watches & Running More Fun in the Philippines!

Manila missed you Mr.Soleus ☺

It is not everyday one gets to mingle and converse with a corporate executive, moreso if that person is the brains behind the sports watch brand Soleus aka David Arnold.

Mr. Arnold who was in Manila two years ago, met up with an intimate group of bloggers last October 15 at 100 Miles Cafe. Many thanks to the gracious invite of Sales & Markting Manager Ms.Judith Staples who’s tireless efforts help propel Soleus Philippines in its favorable track. The day before, he happily met with the rest of Team Soleus’ running group. David was very candid to note in remembering familiar faces and excited to meet new friends. “It doesn’t exactly feel like two years ago but 
I’m happy to be back! There’s also been a lot of improvements (with Soleus) from the last time I was here.” he shares.

Humble beginnings in Austin, Texas

Despite stiff competition from other notable brands, Soleus has slowly made its presence felt in the running and sports community since its humble inception in Austin, Texas a few years ago thanks to a re-positioned global marketing strategy and gracious word of mouth from happy and satisfied users. Putting up his own sports watch via Soleus after being an executive of a popular sports brand of 15 years was the biggest and best career decision he has embarked on and never looked back.

“We encourage our consumers to make their own major moments, a sense of accomplishment. Your Soleus moment!” — David Arnold, Founder & CEO

He is proud to note, “We are a consumer-focused brand and that’s what separates us from the competition. And we very much appreciate it when people give us feedbacks on our products. In fact, we have someone in our office and what she does is monitor and read all the comments sent in, compiles it and forwards it to us.”

And speaking of products, David Arnold gave us a general presentation on how Soleus has stayed on top of its game and what is in store for its loyal consumers and converts. For the last quarter of the year, they have released several exciting and new models in their existing line of gps, running, fitness and cycling segments.

The GPS FIT 1.0 is the new bestseller from its predecessor GPS 1.0

CHICKED has a 30 lap memory, 5 interval timers, dual time and is 100m water resistant among its features.

Category/Models:
GPS: GPS Mini, Vibe, Cross Country, Tour, Fit
Running: Dash, Chicked, Stride
Fitness: Tempo, Pulse HRM, BlueFit HR (heart rate monitor)
Cycling: GPS Draft

Running watch model Chicked for example is doing very good, selling well and is considered a widely-accepted watch and it is very nice to match with a colorful running get up especially for women. Soleus is not to be left behind with fashion even in running.

GPS VIBE include gps receiver, pace/speed, calories burned, data upload, ventilated strap, 30m water resistant

DASH has a 30 lap memory, 10 run data storage, interval timers, 50m water resistant

PULSE HRM includes a heart rate monitor feature, optical sensor, daily step target, pace, distance, calories burned

Perfect for long distance runners ULTRA SOLE provides 100 HR Chronograph, hydration alarms, lap memory, run data storage, PU Comold strap, dual time

GPS DRAFT for cycling enthusiasts gets a gps receiver, convertible display, speed, distance, ride data storage, bike mount kit USB data upload among others

The GPS watch lines are their consistent top sellers and credit goes to its affordability and compact user-friendly features. The non-gps units are as accurate and functional to use. Was able to ask Mr.Arnold what his favorite model watch to date and he replied,

“It would be FIT 1.0. That’s the one I’m using now. We’ve added lots of colors and
it’s doing very well.”

Mr.Arnold sporting the GPS FIT 1.0 who’s design is China-exclusive

He also added, that being on top of his job requires him to try out many models and test them on the road. In terms of impressive sales and marketing in Asia, Mr.Arnold was very quick to point out Philippines as the top leader (with special commendation to Ms.Judith Staples and her team’s dedication and hardwork) followed by Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia and Australia. Well done, Ms.Judith!

Sample Soleus AD in Malaysia and Dubai

Happy Soleus fans in Singapore

More on the GPS Fit 1.0, which has the breathable blue strap was the result of an online voting contest. This cool model picks up from the GPS 1.0 released two years ago which opened more doors at Soleus for product expansion.

“You have more races and weekly runs now in the Philippines. A lot of people now
are very passionate with running. We want you to have a sense of occomplishment.
When you run, when you finish a race. The feeling of I did it! It’s all about making
moments!”

SQUIFFS are words and thoughts of inspiratioon found at the back of selected models. Presented only by Soleus!

A former football player, this executive is humble to admit he has not ran any marathons. He indicated, “I’m more of the shorter distance type. So 10K 
is fine with me. I’m a fitness runner not a serious runner. My wife is into fitness too but she prefers to walk. My younger daughter Julie is a football player she’s really good and she sends me photos of our watches out there.” More Soleus moments!

My very first sports watch –the Soleus P.R. February 2012 – sleek!

A year after my first GPS watch – GPS FIT 1.0 who’s value is much higher now because of David Arnold’s personal autograph on it! Thank you Ms.Judith and David ☺ My sweet Soleus moment! October 2013

Listening and learning from Mr.Arnold’s latest product presentation for an hour was like attending a Soleus Town Hall Meeting in Austin! Felt surreal! Here’s a CEO travelling thousands of miles away from home and his headquarters to personally oversee corporate obligations and reports from distributors. Super! That same day Tuesday he was en route to check on with his Hongkong associates and goes back Stateside 48 hours after.

Mr.Soleus flanked by Jeff Lo of Pinoyfitness.com and Race Director Coach Edward Kho while checking out the latest ish of PF Magazine

Yours truly striking a watch pose with Soleus Founder David Arnold — very grateful I am!

All together now! We love So–le–us!!! A glance of the bloggers with LTimeStudio’s Ms.Judith Staples who had a whooping fun time with CEO David Arnold in his recent Manila business trip. Picture-taking more fun in the Philippines! PHOTO credit: Cheapanggang Diva Rikki Suarez

Before wrapping up his presentation, Mr Arnold emphasized,  “There’s a full range of products right now. We will continue to work on as a company and our GPS  more functional and affordable. We love your feedbacks. It’s been a fun ride these four years. It’s not running the race but making your moments!” 

And amen I say to that! Soleus may still be a new kid in the gps and non-gps running and fitness watch block, challenges will be learning experiences but with a continuous determined, and passionate leadership at the helm, it will go on being consumer-focused and will not rest at its laurels just yet.   

Don’t have a Soleus watch yet? Check out its exciting line-up and I guarantee there is a model that perfectly suits you! 

Special read: As one of the BEST running watches: http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-running-watches-8656264.html

*To keep updated with the latest on Soleus and its products, visit their website at http://www.soleusrunning.com. Like their FB page /soleus.running. Follow them on Twitter @soleusrunning. 

**Soleus watches PH are available at LTimeStudio boutiques at major shopping malls. Visit their website http://www.ltimestudio.com/sports. 

***Many, many thanks Ms.Judith Staples and Mr.David Arnold for making this fun & precious #SoleusMoment so possible! 

When it rains autographs it really pours! Here’s another memento message from Mr.Arnold. This and the GPS FIT 1.0 won’t be auctioned off at E-bay sir, don’t you worry! ☺

Rexona’s #RunToYourBeat Race Kit Winner

Hi fellow Rexona runners! Many, many thanks for joining our race kit giveaway. In fairness, everyone has very interesting songs in their playlist. Clap clap! That also gave me an idea what to upload next in my MP3, nice! 

Congrats congrats to: 

♪♫  RIZALINA FERNANDEZ  ♪♫

Fame – Irene Cara
Black and White – Michael Jackson
Born This Way – Lady Gaga 

Please stand by for my text message on how to claim your prize. 
See you guys this Sunday, October 20 at the Mall of Asia Grounds and let’s partey-partey with Sandwich, DJ Mia Ayesa, Callalily, Elmo Magalona, Rico Blanco and a whole lot more! 
Get to run with Rexona #DoMore Ambassadors Bianca Gonzales Phil Younghusband along the route! 

*Many thanks again to Mr. Mar Corazo of Rexona for the FREE kit. #DoMore #RunToYourBeat

♥ Until the next contest and raffle giveaways ♥

Carrie 2013 – Thank You Stephen King

Based on Stephen King’s very first bestseller, originally released in 1976 and directed by Brian de Palma starring Sissy Spacek, this was the very first foreign horror film I’ve seen in a moviehouse. Was probably between the ages of 9-10?! Wow! Perhaps I was already too tall for my age that’s why theater management back then allowed me to watch with my mom and dad, haha! 

Those were the early movie theater years! #HorrorLover