Roger Espe: From Tennis Courts to Marathon Tracks

At 73 years old, Roger Espe’s journey into the world of long-distance running is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Originally a tennis enthusiast, Roger’s transition to running was unplanned but serendipitous. His story began when his tennis friends started to run, a trend he initially resisted. However, curiosity got the better of him, leading to his first official run, the Milo Marathon in Dagupan City in July 2010, where he completed a 5 km race and found a new love.

The Early Struggles

Transitioning from tennis to running wasn’t without its challenges. Roger found waking up early to train particularly difficult, and the first few kilometers of any run required significant effort. The pandemic posed an additional hurdle when senior citizens were prohibited from leaving their homes. Despite these obstacles, Roger’s love for running kept him going.

“The difficulties are insignificant when you love what you are doing,” Roger says, reflecting on his journey.

Embracing the Simplicity of Running

Roger’s advice to aspiring runners is straightforward: “Get a pair of running shoes and start running. It’s free.” For Roger, the simplicity and accessibility of running are part of its charm. He emphasizes that the only significant cost comes from participating in official events, yet he believes the investment is worthwhile.

Roger runs not for competition but for health. His primary goals are to finish events injury-free and within the cutoff time, with personal records being a delightful bonus.

Learning and Growing

Without formal training or attendance at running seminars, Roger has relied on the support and advice of friends. These friends have offered invaluable tips on posture, form, and techniques, helping him improve his running over the years.

Given his age, Roger’s focus has always been on maintaining health and enjoying the sport rather than competing with others. This approach has allowed him to participate in numerous running events ranging from 5k to ultramarathons, both locally and internationally. His achievements are a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport.

International Marathons: A Global Journey

Roger’s running journey has taken him across the globe. His track record includes prestigious international marathons:

• Nike Melbourne Marathon, Australia: 15-Oct-23, 42k
• Sydney Marathon, Australia: 17-Sep-23, 42k
• FujiSan Marathon, Japan: 24-Nov-19, 42k
• Run Akron, USA: 29-Sep-18, 42k
• BMW Berlin Marathon, Germany: Multiple years
• Run in Lyon, Lyon France: 1-Oct-17, 42k
• Blackmores Sydney Marathon, Australia: 28-Aug-16, 42k
• Movistar Lima 42k, Peru: 29-May-16, 42k
• Rio Maratona Caixa da Cidade, Brazil: 1-May-16, 42k
• City to Surf WA Marathon : Perth Western Australia: Multiple Years
• Vancouver Marathon, Canada: 11-Oct-15, 42k
• BA Chicago Marathon, USA: 2015
• Osaka Marathon, Japan: 26-Oct-14, 42k
• Standard Chartered Hongkong Marathon: Multiple years

These events have not only allowed Roger to explore different parts of the world but also to meet fellow runners and experience diverse running cultures.

Local Marathons: Commitment to Community

Roger’s commitment to running extends to local marathons, where he has consistently participated and inspired others:

• Bacolod City Marathon, Negros Occidental: 16-Jun-24, 42k
• Cebu Marathon, Cebu City: Multiple years
• Kadayawan Run, Davao City: 21-Aug-22, 42k
• National Milo Marathon Finals: Multiple locations and years
• Antique Marathon, Sibalom: 1-Aug-17, 42k
• Lang-ay Marathon, Bontoc: 2-Apr-17, 42k
• Cordillera Mountain Marathon, Benguet: Multiple years
• Condura Skyway Marathon: Multiple years
• Pilipinas Akyathlon Sky Marathon Itogon, Benguet :5-Feb-17 , 42k
• MF42 Trail Marathon Pampanga :2-Oct-16 ,42k
• Nat Geo Earth Day Run BGC :17-Apr-16 ,42k
• Mount Ugo Marathon Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya :22-Feb-15 ,42k
• Benguet Gold Rush Itogon, Benguet :16-Nov-14, 42k
• Run United Philippine Marathon SM Mall of Asia :5-Oct-14, 42k
• Rice Terraces Marathon Hungduan, Ifugao :8-Jun-14, 42k
• 1st Mount Ugo Trail Marathon Kayapa, Nueva Vizcaya :1-Apr-12 ,42k

Roger’s participation in these events highlights his dedication to the running community and his role as an inspiration for runners of all ages.

Ultramarathons: Pushing the Limits

In addition to marathons, Roger has also participated in numerous ultramarathons, proving that age is no barrier to pushing physical and mental limits:

• Elyu 100k Ultra Marathon: 21-Nov-21, 100k
• Baguio City Ultra Marathon: 21-Jan-18, 50k
• Highest Point by TP Ultra Marathon: 14-Apr-19, 50k
• Agoo to Baguio 50k Ultra Marathon: 17-Feb-19, 50k
• Baguio to Highest Point 50k Ultra: 29-Apr-18, 50k
• 10th BDM Ultra Marathon: 27-Jan-18, 102k
• Mayon 360 Albay Ultra Marathon: 12-May-17, 80k
• Gat Tayaw 60k Ultra Marathon: 8-Apr-17, 60k
• Ambaguio Warrior 50km Ultra Marathon: 25-Mar, 50k
• Tagaytay2Maragondon 50k Ultra: 25-Feb-17, 50k
• Clark-Miyamit 60k Ultra: 30-Nov-16, 60k
• Hero to Hero 50k Ultra Marathon: 27-Dec-14, 50k
• Sungay Challenge 50k Ultra Marathon: 13-Jul-14, 50k
• The North Face 100: Various years
• La Union Unity Marathon (LUUM): Multiple years
• Shall Return Ultra Marathon: 25-Aug-12, 50k

Roger’s involvement in these ultramarathons showcases his extraordinary stamina and determination, making him a role model for endurance athletes worldwide.

Volunteerism and Community Support

Beyond running, Roger has also contributed to the running community through volunteer work, such as at the TCS New York City Marathon in 2015. His volunteerism reflects his commitment to giving back and supporting the sport he loves. Currently, Roger is volunteering to assist runners in the Hoka Trilogy Run Asia Series in Baguio City 2024.

Running as a Lifelong Passion

Roger Espe’s journey from the tennis courts to marathon tracks is a compelling story of passion, resilience, and dedication. At 73, he continues to inspire others with his love for running, demonstrating that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing one’s passion. His advice to runners is simple yet profound: “Love what you are doing, and everything will come naturally.”