❝ Tabios is indeed a rare Pinoy athlete who craves the thrill of competition in ultra-long distance that test the limits of one's endurance and mental strength.❞ Hawaii Filipino Chronicle - August 15, 2015
Welcome to my corner of the web! I'm Gerald Tabios, a firm believer in living life to the fullest and maintaining a well-balanced lifestyle. Born and raised in the scenic city of Malaybalay, Philippines in 1969, I embarked on an adventurous journey that eventually led me to Elmhurst, New York, where I now reside with my loving wife and two wonderful children.
My educational background includes a degree in Civil Engineering from Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, laying the foundation for my professional endeavors. In 2001, my wife, Donna, and I made the life-changing decision to migrate to New York, marking the beginning of a new chapter.
My passion for running ignited in 2004 when I tackled my first marathon, the iconic New York City Marathon. Little did I know, it was just the beginning of my extraordinary journey into the world of ultramarathons. In 2011, I embraced the challenge of a 50k ultramarathon, a feat I once thought unimaginable. The allure of the legendary Badwater 135, famously dubbed "The World’s Toughest Foot Race," captured my imagination after reading "The Ultramarathon Man" by Dean Karnazes. In July 2014, I realized my dream by conquering the grueling alternate course of the Badwater 135-mile.
Since then, I've completed the Badwater 135 eight times, each race pushing me beyond my limits and reinforcing the power of perseverance and determination. My passion for ultramarathons even inspired a documentary film, "Running for Freedom: My Journey as an Ultra Marathon Runner," directed by James Castillo which premiered at prestigious film festivals in the year 2019, showcasing my unwavering dedication and resilience.
In September 2022, I was honored to be recognized as one of the Outstanding Filipinos in America (TOFA) in sports for long-distance running, highlighting my contributions to the athletic community and my commitment to excellence.
In January 2025, I embarked on a new adventure as an author with the release of my book, Escape from Comfort: Lessons from the Road and Death Valley. This deeply personal work reflects on my journey as an ultramarathon runner, exploring the lessons I've learned through grueling races, life’s triumphs, and challenges. From the relentless heat of Death Valley to the bustling streets of New York City, the book delves into themes of perseverance, resilience, and pushing beyond the boundaries of comfort. Through these stories, I aim to inspire readers to embrace challenges, chase their dreams, and discover the extraordinary potential within themselves.
Outside of the racing world, I work as a driver for a private family in the bustling streets of New York City. Despite my demanding schedule, I prioritize fitness by incorporating running into my daily commute, logging miles to and from work five days a week.
My journey through ultramarathons has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, teamwork, and the indomitable human spirit. While my personal achievements are significant, my ultimate motivation lies in inspiring others to overcome obstacles and prioritize their health and well-being.
I invite you to join me on this incredible journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and living life with purpose. Let's push boundaries, embrace challenges, and strive for greatness together. Remember, the only limits that exist are the ones we place on ourselves. Here's to embracing the extraordinary and chasing dreams with unwavering determination!