At 49, Filipina ultrarunner Maricel Mendoza Oliva is rewriting history in the world of competitive running. Originally from Sta. Maria, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, Maricel has become the first Filipina to break into the Top 10 of the National Gran Prix and earned a remarkable 2nd place finish at the Gran Prix Criterium Centro Sud 2024 in Italy.
Migrating to Italy in 2004, Maricel’s journey began with simple one-hour daily walks before progressing to 5K run-walk routines over three years. Over the years, her passion for running grew stronger, and in 2019, with the support of her now-husband Gennaro Oliva, she dedicated herself to intense training, running four times a week to prepare for long-distance races.
In 2021, she stepped into the world of ultramarathons, conquering grueling races of up to 100KM! Her hard work has paid off with a string of notable achievements. In 2024 alone, she completed 18 ultramarathons, securing podium finishes in several races across Italy.
Among her achievements in 2025 are securing 4th place overall at the 8-hour Ultra Palmensi and completing the 6-hour Ultra Maremma in January.
Last year, she also bagged 2nd place overall at the 8-hour Barletta, 3rd place overall at the 8-hour Paglieta, 3rd place in the AC category at the Latina Marathon, 3rd place overall at the 24-hour Ultra Città di Lavello, and finished the 100KM Passatore.
At the recently held 30th Acea Run Rome Marathon, Filipino participants gathered for a Meet and Greet dinner, a chance to bond and celebrate their shared accomplishments. During the same event, the Filipino International Pacers honored Maricel as the “Best Female Ultrarunner” for her exceptional achievements in sports, demonstrating not only excellence but also setting the standard for leadership with purpose and passion.
Despite the demands of being a wife, runner, and competitor, Maricel maintains a balanced diet and stays mentally tough. Her mantra? Stay focused, stay strong, and run with passion! — Alona Cochon
