By Alona Cochon
ITALY – Ireland-based Filipino ultrarunner Jivee Tolentino has again proved his endurance after hurdling 160.8 kilometers in 24 consecutive hours at the Backyard Ultra Livata held in Subiaco, Italy from May 31 to June 2.
The 47-year-old Ilonggo native finished 15th out of the 146 international ultrarunners in one of the most grueling tournaments that has a unique format, where there is no set finish line. Only the participant running is considered the finisher.
The rest, regardless of the distance, are considered DNF or Did Not Finish.
“I’m grateful to be part of Backyard Ultra Livata,” Tolentino said.
Tolentino is ranked 13th in the world, highlighted by his record-setting 81 loops (534 km) at the 2023 Backyard Ultra World Championships.
He is also the first Filipino and first Asian to finish the legendary Phidippides Ultra 490K, covering the ancient route from Athens to Sparta and back, a feat that showcases both endurance and legacy.
Jacob How, a 43-year-old overseas Filipino worker from Plaridel, Bulacan, and now living in Rome with his family, said he drew inspiration from Tolentino as he completed 14 loops, covering a total of 93.8 kilometers.
“I was just happy to run alongside legends like Jivee. Their stories really inspire me to keep going,” he said.
Daniele Lissoni of Italy claimed the title as “the last man standing” in Backyard Ultra Livata.
Tolentino said he would possibly return to the World Championships in Tennessee later this year. (Alona Cochon/PNA)
