Over 36,000 runners, including Filipinos mostly based in Europe, will participate in the Acea Run Rome the Marathon 2026 on March 22.

Organizers confirmed the record attendance from 130 countries during the presentation of the event at Sala della Protomoteca in The Campidoglio in Rome, Italy.

Ireland-based Filipino ultra runner Jivee Tolentino said he is ready for the 31st edition of the much-awaited annual race with the theme “One distance. Eight cities. Many cultures. One shared European identity.”

“This is my second time to participate. My mindset in this competition is to be resilient and stay focused. I accept the challenge and hardship to achieve my goal,” Tolentino said.

“My preparation for this race is that I run every morning before going to work for at least one hour and another one or two hours after my work. I eat plenty of vegetables and fruits to maintain my diet,” he added.

Italy-based Modena Joel Marasigan said excitement continues to grow.

“So excited na makita ko ang ibang runners sa Europe at sa ibat -ibang panig ng mundo (I’m so excited to see other runners in Europe and other parts of the world),” Marasigan said.

“I focus on my training kahit mahirap dahil winter sobra lamig at sa OFW (overseas Filipino worker) katulad namin, talagang dapat time management. Kelangan talaga mag-training dahil alam ko, ako din ang mahihirapan pandating ng race (I focus on my training even though it’s hard because winter was so cold, and for OFWs like us, time management is really important. I really need to train because I know that I will have a hard time when the race comes).”

Organizers said Run Rome the Marathon unites with seven other iconic European Marathons – Vienna (Austria), London (United Kingdom), Madrid (Spain), Copenhagen (Denmark), Warsaw (Poland), Lisbon (Portugal) and Frankfurt (Germany).

Aside from the 42.195-kilometer race, Filipino participants will also compete in road races and community fun runs.

Philippine Ambassador to Italy Nathaniel Imperial earlier wished the Filipino participants good luck, reaffirming the Embassy’s commitment to support endeavors that promote wellness, excellence and cultural visibility. (PNA)