CLARK FREEPORT – The 2024 Tata Consultancy Service (TCS) Clark Animo International Marathon, the 14th edition of the longest established and largest running event in this freeport was a resounding success last March 3.
Originating in 2009 as a fun run orchestrated by the Pampanga regional unit of the De La Salle Alumni Association (DLSAA) with just 600 participants, the event aimed to promote a healthy lifestyle while generating funds for community projects under the DLSAA-Pampanga Chapter.
Over the years, the Clark Animo Fun Run’s popularity grew rapidly, attracting up to 5,000 participants and prompting DLSAA-Pampanga to reintroduce a more competitive marathon format within the freeport in 2013, following a five-year hiatus. The number of participants reached a pinnacle prior to the pandemic, soaring to 10,000 runners.
TCS, a global leader in IT services, consulting, and business solutions, served as the title sponsor for the 2024 edition of the annual marathon. TCS has a track record of sponsoring prestigious sporting events worldwide, including the New York Marathon, London Marathon, and Mumbai Marathon.
Paw Bangsil, current president of the DLSAA-Pampanga, highlighted the marathon’s distinction as an International Amateur Athletics Federation – World Athletics Internationally Certified Marathon Course. This accreditation ensures accurate course measurement, adhering to the stringent qualifying standards of elite marathons worldwide.
Shiju Varghese, TCS Philippines country head, underscored his company’s commitment to community service, particularly in environmental initiatives, aligning with the advocacy of DLSAA-Pampanga. The seven-year partnership between TCS and the marathon is envisioned to be mutually beneficial for both community and organizational goals.
Proceeds from the 2024 marathon benefited the Angeles City Watershed Project and the La Salle Botanical Garden (LSBG) at Alviera in Porac, Pampanga, supporting reforestation efforts and scientific research on native flora, respectively.
The event was hosted by Clark Global City, Clark Development Corp., Bases Conversion Development Authority, and the Clark International Airport. Major sponsors included GCash, Hausland Group, Cherifer, JDN-NEPO Center, and Converge FiberX.
Other sponsors are Angeles Power/ Raslag Corp., Nissan Clark, Ford Clark, inbox store/iBook, Lasik Surgery Clinic – AUFMC, and PAGCOR. Gratitude was extended to partners such as Nike Clark (Official Sports Gear partner), Gatorade Philippines (Official Hydration Partner), Titan Watches (Timing Partner), Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort & Park Inn by Radisson Clark (Hotel Partners), and Clark Water (Hydration Partner-Water). E-Derm Centers (dermatology and aesthetic partner), Genesis Transport Service Inc. (Transport Partner), and Stretch Lab Ph (Recovery Partner) also played significant roles. Donors include Aquapacs, Wagyu Garden Hotpot Friendship Angeles, Kopiko, and Le Minerale, as well as media partners CLTV 36, Skramble Media, and 105.5 UFM/ Pep TV, were acknowledged for their contributions. Press release
