No ordinary runner

Running has never been this hip in the country –  Coach Rio dela Cruz could be one of the reasons why. With his curls, enviable tan, and ready smile, he easily commands attention even when among a sea of bright jerseys. But more than his looks, it's his passion for running that has made him the poster guy for the sport.

Recently, Safeguard Active teamed-up with the running guru for a running event like no other, #BeatCoachRio. It was a perfect match! Coach Rio is an active force in running competitions while Safeguard Active is the brand's newest line of defense against body odor. Providing 12-Hour Odor Protection, Safeguard Active drives Filipinos to exceed their athletic limitations by promoting good hygiene. It keeps them fresh and allows them to focus on beating their personal best – definitely a thumbs up for sports enthusiasts!

Coach Rio himself is no stranger to taking on new challenges. Just recently, he tested his limits when he ran against a plane!



After witnessing the outcome of this man vs. a machine contest, would anyone dare challenge Coach Rio in his own game? Hundreds tried at the #BeatCoachRio event held last June 5, 2012. They ran against the image of a running Coach Rio on an LED Billboard and took a shot at beating his recorded time of 2.3 seconds for a 20-meter dash. Those with the best time had the chance to compete against Coach Rio in person at a 20-meter dash race. Can a race get any cooler than this?

The epitome of cool himself, Coach Rio is hopeful that the #BeatCoachRio event and the entire Safeguard Active campaign will inspire more Filipinos to embrace an active lifestyle,  put on their running shoes and hit the track. "Being an athlete is not how fast you run or how high you jump, it’s about facing your fear, believing that you can do it," he said.
 
So, did anyone succeed in beating Coach Rio’s running record? Find out in this video: