■ Harley F. Palangchao
Ultra-runner policeman, S/Sgt. Miguel Carranza of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-CAR, started the year right when he clinched the top podium in the 75-kilometer division of the 2024 Malico Grand Ultra in San Nicolas, Pangasinan on weekend.
Carranza finished the grueling race with an official time of 15 hours, 39 minutes, and 40 seconds to earn points for international ultra races scheduled this year.
The police officer has hurdled tough terrains that posed great challenge to fellow runners, who came from different parts of the country.
Carranza, in a post-race social media post, thanked the organizers and the BarrCamp co-founder Frankie Abubo and his training buddy Don Santillan for the support leading to race day.
The 2024 Malico Grand Ultra also featured the 42K, 21K, and the 10K, which drew young and old participants.
Last week’s event was part of Carranza’s preparation for possible slots in international races set this year.
Carranza said he is aiming to join international events this year such as the 2024 Hardcore Hundred Miles-Philippines in May and The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, which is touted the most competitive ultra-trail marathon in the world being held in Chamonix, France.
The city government of Baguio has recently commended Carranza for winning a gold and a bronze medal in the 2023 World Police and Fire Games in Winnipeg, Canada.
Carranza won a gold in the cross country and a bronze medal in the 10-kilometer track and field during the 2023 WPFG held from July 28 to Aug. 6.
“The outstanding performance of S/Sgt. Miguelito Carranza portrays an unwavering commitment to discipline and sports excellence, cultivated over years of relentless training and dedication,” reads the resolution of commendation handed over to the police officer by city officials led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan, and Rep. Mark Go.
