Just Shutehelup

SAFRA SIngapore Biathlon, 12 Feb 11

2011-02-16T12:36:00.004+08:00

Second attempt at Biathlon. Got up late and rushed to the event area. Good thing i have packed the race essentials the night before. Drove with Ed to ECP and had to park near the Cable Ski Park before walking down to the transition area.

Earlier waves had already started and i caught glimpses of Coach Alex, Roonz and WeeSan embarking on their 10km run. Collected the race pack from registration and set up transition. Wearing red 2xu tritop and bottom, i was issued number 8062 heading out to sea on Wave 4.

Posed for a few snaps on Ed's Canon 500D before joining the queue at the startline. The swim route will take me anti-clockwise towards Changi. I've decided to stay at back of pack so not to be crawled over and as the host sounded the horn signaling the start of the race, i did just that.

Swimming perpendicular to the coast for 200m, i was sandwiched by 2 other swimmers swimming froggy. Using them as my target, i crawled forward and sighted every 10 strokes. After what felt like a long time, i reached the bouy and turned port towards Changi. The 2 other swimmers were now to my front and starboard. The sea was calm but the under-current was rather strong to my liking. Crawling my way forward, i eventually reached the u-turn point. With swimrope on my starboard and my marking swimmer half a body length on starboard bow, i crawled forward and entered the swim finish fairway towards shore. My hands touched sand with the clock at 50mins.

Jogged to transition with Ed snapping photos, i exchanged the goggle and swim cap for socks, TNF Boa blue and 2xu shades. WeeSan had already finished her race and offered me a powergel which i gladfully accepted. I then head out for the run after taking a sip of diluted 100plus.

Running at what felt like 6.5mins/km, i felt the brick feeling on my feet but persevered on. Following the twisting and turning route i u-turned at the 2.5km point, looking out for a target to follow. I found one at the 4km mark, Reuel. We ran the next 5km side by side, talking about work, training, travel, holiday while encouraging each other on. We caught up with other runners along the way and encouraged them to move on.

Upon reaching the 9km mark at the food centre, i sped up, leaving Reuel and another runner. I expected them to follow me but realised a while later that they were lagging way behind. With a continuous flow of athletes heading out of race area having completed their race to my right, i saw the finishing chute. Ed was snapping away on her Canon and i completed the race in 2:05hrs.

Collected the medal and other race goodies. Met up with the swimmer i used as marker, Muz, and got to know a few athletes from the Facebook Terai-Melayu gang.

Good race, examplary race management, definately an event i need to attempt every year.

Swam: 1.5km
Ran: 10km
Time: 2:05hrs

Muar National Charity Run 2010 - 1 August 2010

2010-08-20T10:25:00.004+08:00

5 weeks after KL Marathon with only a 10km run around Woodlands sandwiched in between, i embarked on another half marathon; this time at Muar. Didn't know much about Muar except for its proximity to Malacca and Mount Ophir. I found out later that it is also home to the best-est Mee Bandung.

Anyhow, with Ed opting to attend National Day preview, I set off driving up to Muar with IMD and Yeehua. Arrived at 5pm, collected race pack and checked-into Townview hotel. After dinner, i prepared the race essentials: Blue TNF Arnuva Boa, 2009 SCKLM vest, black mizuno shorts, socks, fastened race bib on racebelt together with USK, then went to sleep.

Got up at 5am, didn't get much sleep anyway. After shower, met up with IMD and Yeehua at the hotel lobby and realised that it was raining. Decided to drive to startpoint about 3km away. Organisers were still setting up the race area when we arrived. After much waiting, the race started at 630am with me right at the back.

Ran beside Cik Rustam, the Pacesetter president for the first 3km before deciding to slow down. I then joined a pack of 4 runners and we ran together for the next 2km. After a waterstop at 5km, i was all alone. I could see a few runners a couple of hundred metres behind me. I wasn't tired, no soreness or aches.

After turning left towards Malacca, we entered the highway portion of the race. Nice looking houses lined the side of the highway, the kind of kampong houses i would love to have. The road were deserted as i maintained my 8km/hr pace. Mok Ying Ren appeared as the first runner on the opposite side of the road, meaning he was 5km ahead of me. Soon, a marshal guided me towards an overhead bridge to cross the road.

Another marshal called out to me to enter the forested portion of the race. Palm trees lined both sides of the track and it stretched for about 2km. A waterpoint appeared halfway along the track and i took my pack of powergel.

Re-entering the highway, i spotted a runner ahead. Slow but constant steps. i caught up to him and eventually overtook. He seemed to be in pain. Crossing another overhead bridge, i entered the last 5km of the race. I remembered an Al-Ikhsan shop was due to appear on my left followed by Giant. As i passed by them, i saw the bridge towards Muar town. A marshal on bike was waiting for me at the other side. As traffic was already heavy by then, the marshal on bike personally escorted me for the next 2km.

Entering the last km, i caught up with the tail end of the 6km walkers. Coffeeshops were already lined with patrons and smells of prata and satay filled the air. I felt hungry and wanted my plate of mee bandung but continued the slow run. Before long, I approached the finishing area. Officials were still waiting for finishers then as i crossed the line in 2:49. Tired but still feeling fresh, i collected my race medal. No more soya bean drink so i took plain water instead.

Both IMD and Yeehua came in top 10 in their respective categories and received their prices on stage.

Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur Marathon, 27 June 2010

2010-06-29T19:06:00.002+08:00

Can't believe the last race i did prior to this event was the same event exactly a year ago. Then again, i have been slacking since.

Arrived in Kuala Lumpur with a tight hamstring on the right leg on Saturday morning with Teelee and Taz. Hamstring was due to a session of badminton with EG aka idiot on Friday. Anyhow, picked up the race pack at Stadium Titiwangsa before making our way to the hotel. Laid out the race essentials and started to put them into their respective places; race tag on my new TNF Arnuva Boa 50 blue, number tag on 2009 SCSM vest, urban survival kit (USK - ID, credit card, travel insurance card and cash), a pack each of powergel and deep heat rub in race belt, Road ID, Polar RS200D and 2XU visor before getting my head on the pillow to rest.

Got up to the sound of Teelee leaving for his 42km at 0430hrs. To be honest, i didn't get much sleep. After shower, applied plaster on nipples and put on race kit. With Taz, left for startpoint at 0530hrs while munching away a pack of Powerbar Triple Threat. Startpoint at Dataran Merdeka was only 3mins away.

Did some stretching and warm up before meeting ST, Ham and Wishbone and friend. I still could not believe i was doing the race. A 21km would have been breakfast for me in 2006 or 2007, but i'm nowhere near being physically fit in 2010. At 0615hrs, start flag was waved signaling the start of the half marathon. I had no choice but to follow the crowd to cross the startline.

I realised that Wishbone and friend was not going fast and rather liked their pace and used them as my pacer. We ran past the old railway station before heading towards the new one at KL Central. It was then a left turn to Jalan Travers and right on Jalan Tun Sambanthan before left again to be on Jalan Syed Putra. At 5km i realised that my pace was a 8.5min/km, which was way slower than the 6min/km i used to do in 2006. Old age perhaps.

The stretch from Jalan Maharajalela to Jalan Cheras was only 5km long but felt like eternity. I felt that Wishbone and friend slowed their pace at 7.5km waterpoint so i headed out on my own. It was 1:30 when i arrived at 10.5km; that must have been the slowest 10km that i have ran, ever. Even the run leg of Bintan Tri in 2008 was completed in 1:18hrs.

I found a new pacer at Jalan Cheras, a girl from Trengganu. She said that this is her first ever race. Brave of her. Another runner tried to follow my pace, though he was brisk walking. I was that slow.

Strangely enough, i did not feel tired or any pain anywhere. I was comfortable with the pace. Even the weather was good, cool. That didn't last though. As soon as i arrived at Jalan Bukit Bintang circa 15km, my hamstring started to tighten and feet started to hurt. I kept my breathing slow to prevent a rising heart rate. My yoga instructor Shan once said that you can fight pain by controlling your breathing, i think.

I passed by McDonalds at Bukit Bintang thinking about hotcakes but it was already 2:00hrs then. My personal worst 21km was the first 21km i ran: SAFRA Half Marathon 2003 at 2:45hrs. However, on the plus side, other than at waterpoints, i have managed to maintain running continuously at 8.5min/km. Can't expect much if you don't put in the training.

The last 5km was painful. Sore feet, tight hamstring and hunger. Jalan Sultan Ismail was downsloping but a left turn into Jalan Raja Chulan was upsloped. The right turn into Jalan P Ramlee was better and i found a new pacer in Doris from Shah Alam. We ran by KLCC before a left turn brought us past Zouk and then a right for the final 3km. I then had to walk for 2mins. Feet was too painful.

Slow jogged and brisk walking, i turned left into Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman. Doris was 100m ahead of me and the brave girl from Trengganu was to my right as i struggled the last km. Tey was snapping photos and Yeehua and IMD called out to me before i crossed the finish line at 3:01hrs.

Verdict: Crazy for me to even attempt this. The last long run i did was a 15km in early May. Short 5km runs doesn't count when you are preparing for a half marathon. The race though, was a marked improvement from 2009. Route was, though flat in Malaysian standards, was convenient and safe. Race pack collection was systematic and customer-oriented though only god and the organisers know why the venue was Stadium Titiwangsa.

Distance: 21km
Time: 3:01hrs

Summary: Week of 3 to 9 May 2010

2010-05-10T13:59:00.002+08:00

Finally got some mileage:

Mon, 3 May: 5km run; 5 1km loops at Tampines Park
Tue, 4 May: Another 5km, same 5 loops
Wed, 5 May: 7km of Fire Station-Pump Station-Utilities Office-Pump Station-Fire station route
Thur, 6 May: Rest, no training
Fri, 7 May: No training
Sat, 8 May: No training
Sun, 9 May: 15.5km on Tampines Ave 5, Pasir Ris Park, Bedok Reservoir route

Total mileage: 32.5km of running
Feeling: Pain

Smello sambal stingray

2010-05-03T14:54:00.004+08:00

Felt like eating fish and made my way to Giant Tampines. They normally have a good spread of fresh fishes but the trays on display were rather sparcely filled with not very appetising fishes. Anyhow, saw a couple of stingray steaks and immediately thought of BBQ sambal stingray. Got a 3 serving size steak and headed home with a bottle of chincalok.

Cleaned the stingray before panfrying it. I then packed it in aluminium foil and banana leaf, with a few strings of onions and many dollops of sambal. It was then sent in to the oven for 30mins of grilling.

The stingray turned out fine, except for a strong pungent smell, sort of dried fishy, thai fish sauce kind. I then thought maybe i missed a process, a cleansing kind. Vaguely remembered my late granny soaking fishes in a mixture tamarind juice and salt. Wonder if that is the solution.

By the way, i guess Ed enjoyed the fish, served with short grain brown rice and stirfried baby kailan, with chincalok at the side.

Update... hopefully a sustainable restart to my active and healthy lifestyle

2010-04-28T14:18:00.002+08:00

Since the post below (aka A Farmosa Sprint Triathlon 2008), my sports activities has been pretty much... inactive. I've gained lots of weight, indulged in what my father remarked as.... expensive food... and memorises the programme schedule on Starhub cable TV.

1) Ok, events/race wise, i've done:

A Farmosa Triathlon 2008 Olympic Distance: Came out of water 2nd last and was comfortable on the bike leg, only to get a puncture of rear tyre at KM17. Tough luck. This was the only ride where i did not equipped myself with a spare tube and pump.
New Balance Pacesetters 2008 in KL, Malaysia: I decided to go to KL for the food, rather than the race. Completed the run anyway, so slow that i managed a nice pose for IMD the cameraman at the finishing line.
Bintan Triathlon 2008 Olympic Distance: Woohoo... completed my maiden OD in 3:45. I was again.. 2nd last out of water with the whole senior management of Bintan Resorts and Nirwana waiting by the beach (i hope not for me) but managed to overtake many (about 20) racers during bike and run leg.
Powerman Duathlon Malaysia 2008 in Lumut, Perak: Thanks to Alvin, managed to get seats on bus and hotel for this race. Tough as hell (maybe) but completed in 5:30. Had an excuse though; Scotty's rear D jammed up leaving me with 2 speeds to play with for the 64km ride.
Bintan Triathlon 2009 Sprint Race: Played coach to the company's ladies relay team. Was slow but not strolling and completed the race in 2:15. Then visited the medic station for a bad case of cramp.
Tons of DNS since. 2009 was the year of DNS for me. So my KPI for 2010 is... no DNS.

2) Life and material wealth:

Followed the average married man's route towards inactivity, tummy growing and weekend slacking.
Based in Bintan, food and training opportunities are very different from Singapore. No more of post 7pm/pre 7am runs/rides, and the food.... don't get me started.... too good. Limited to 5 to 10km of climbs on the Fire station/pump station/Utilities office route, gym work and once-in-a-blue-moon 50km rides on weekends.
Having a car and a vespa means less familiarity with public transport and even lesser walking. Looking for parking lots is the sport i'm better at now.
Ed gave up her Helios 500. I took over and swapped the Ultegra gruppos and Aksium wheels from Scotty, who i gave to Ed's brother.
Got a Cannondale F5 for my 32nd hatchday. Though under-riden, i have clocked some quality KMs of offroad dirt on it so far.

Now the rot stops here. It will be slightly more than 2 weeks til Pacesetters 15km run. I hope with the old practice of recording my training in this blog will 2010 not be another year of DNS.

A Farmosa Triathlon: Sprint Distance - 10 May 08

2008-06-03T17:17:00.001+08:00

When it rains, it pours. Third event in 4 weekends and first Tri for the year. Heard lots of horror stories about the swim section of this event and Wildcat advised me to check it out.

Reached A Farmosa early and after collecting race pack, i checked into the hotel. The sprint race was scheduled at 4pm and i took an hour nap before started my preparation.

Got to race site early and set up transition. Opted for platform peddles instead of cleat due to the short race distance. Already donning my Zoot blue tritop and back thights, i placed shades and visor just beside the hooked AFD.

Did some stretching and practise swim. Water was cold and brown but taste much better than sea water. Feeling that i have scared myself enough, i waited for familiar faces like Daniel Gan and Tri_jon to appear.

Participants had to trap water as the race was a water start. Uncle Chan finally blew the horn signaling the start of the race. I then realised that i did not have my polar with me. Anyhow, i kept at the back of pack and slowly frogged my way through the course. Thankfully, there was a swim rope and i had no worries about calling for help.

After what felt like eternity, i completed the swim and headed out to transition. Put on white LAS and NB735 Red and off i went cycling. The cycle course is 2 loops of undulating 10kms. Managed to overtake some cyclists and eventually Daniel Gan.

Completed the 2 loops and back to transition. Hooked the bike, dropped the helmet and slowly made my way out for the run. Didn't want to tire myself out so i took a real slow jog-walk. Daniel overtook me before i finished the race in 1:27hrs.

Next day is OD.

Distance: 500m swim + 20km bike + 3km run
Time: 1:27hrs

Summary for the week of 28 Apr - 4 May 08

2008-05-05T11:33:00.002+08:00

Picking up the pace.

Monday, 28 Apr: Swim lessons.
Tuesday, 29 Apr: No training.
Wednesday, 30 Apr: No training.
Thursday, 1 May: Bintan on Bike.
Friday, 2 May: No training.
Saturday, 3 May: No training. Sent bike to Rodalink for half-yearly servicing and repair of rear wheel.
Sunday, 4 May: Singapore Sprint Series Duathlon.

Tribob Singapore Sprint Series Duathlon - 4 May 08

2008-05-05T11:32:00.004+08:00

Second race of the year and the second race in the Sprint Series. Got to race site early, thanks to my aunt's Lancer. Ed was there to cheer me on and provide logistical assistance. My black Scott AFD was at the Rodalink workshop so i had to use Ed's Helios 500.

Collected race chip and set up transition consisting of 2XU visor and drinks. The weather was very hot and i was gulping down lots of fluid. Wearing my 2XU red tri-thights and Adidas white vest, i did some stretching and warm ups before meeting up with Burnz, Aerosolcan, Jodan, Sanjeev and Daniel Gan.

The race started and everybody went off sprinting, everybody except for me. I did a consistent run and completed the segment in 16:33mins, not exactly race speed. Got to my bike, threw the visor down and put on LAS helmet before unhooking the bike for the slow jog to the mounting line.

Mounted and spinned on the lightest gear to acclimatise the legs. The ride section consisted of 3 loops of undulating 5kms at Old and new Mandai Rd. The route was pretty narrow so overtaking needed a lot of certainty. Completed the 3 loops in 33:02mins. Dismounted and slow jogged to the transition slot.

Hooked the bike, dropped the helmet and put on the visor. A gulp of water and i was off running, slowly to prevent cramps. Heard a lot of horror stories regarding cramps during duathlon. Eventually i fell victim to a kind circa 1.5km and had to slow down, real slow. After the waterpoint, i continued running and finished the run in 20:20mins for an overall race time of 1:13hrs.

Good race, good route, weather was extremely hot.

Distance:
Run1: 3km
Bike:15km
Run2:3km
Time: 1:13hrs

Bintan on Bike: Bintan Tri Recce Ride - 1 May 08

2008-05-05T11:31:00.003+08:00

It's May Day, a much needed public holiday, not for resting, but for last minute training for Bintan Tri. Organised a recce ride in Bintan for my friends, Eliza, Little Firefly, Yuki and Babumouse. Met some other riders from Yellowfish swim class.

Did the whole cycling route, all 40km or so, except that we started at Wisma BRC instead of Nirwana Beach Club. Compared to the race at BLR previous years, this route seems more technical. There are lesser high slopes but more lower, steep slopes, especially at Ria Bintan.

After a drink break to hide from the extreme hot weather, Eliza, Babu and i did another ride to Nirwana and back, just to make the trip worth.

When i got home, i realised there was something wrong with my rear wheel. Hhmm.... an excuse for an upgrade??

Distance: 60km

Summary for the week of 21 - 27 Apr 08

2008-05-05T11:30:00.002+08:00

Swim and ride.

Monday, 21 Apr: Re-started my swim lesson. SeaMonster commented that i can float and swim better now cos of my aero-haircut. Received bad news when i got to work. Days are numbered, i don't belong there anymore. Time to start thinking for myself.
Tuesday, 22 Apr: No training.
Wednesday, 23 Apr: L&T ride.
Thursday, 24 Apr: No training.
Friday, 25 Apr: L&T ride.
Saturday, 26 Apr: No training. Too bonked from the long ride.
Sunday, 27 Apr: Rest.

L & T rides

2008-05-05T11:29:00.002+08:00

Have been doing lots of cycling now since Lala pulled me into L&T. Can't remember my last quality long run.

Did 2 middle distance rides this week:

23 Apr: 46km from home-L&T-ECP-Guillemard-Nicoll Highway-Shenton Way-pitstop at Keppel Railway Station-Robinson Rd-Nicoll Highway-Geylang Rd-Sim Avenue-Bedok-home.

25 Apr: 81km from home-TP-Paya Lebar-Airport Rd-Bartley Rd-Braddel Rd-Thomson Longhouse-Sembawang Rd-Mandai Rd-Woodlands Rd-Bukit Timah Rd-Dunearn Rd-pitstop at Newton Circus-Novena-Lavendar St-Kallang Rd-Guillemard Rd-Fort Rd-ECP-Xi Lin-L&T-home

Good thing: mileage covered.
Not very good thing: pit stops too many and too long. But i can't remember complaining about this during the stops.

Summary for week of 14 - 20 Apr 08

2008-05-05T11:26:00.002+08:00

First event for the year!!

Monday, 14Apr: In Bintan, no training.
Tuesday, 15 Apr: In Jakarta for meeting on school.
Wednesday, 16 Apr: Still in Jakarta. Hotel had a good gym and pool. Didn't bring sports attire though.
Thursday, 17 Apr: Returned to SG too late for any training.
Friday, 18 Apr: No training.
Saturday, 19 Apr: Spent S$225 on a new 2XU tritop and tights from Kobe at Queensway. Still didn't understand why i decided to buy.
Sunday, 20 Apr: Singapore Sprint Series Biathlon.

Tribob Singapore Sprint Series Duathlon - 20 Apr 08

2008-05-05T11:25:00.001+08:00

After a week of relatively no exercise, i finally did my first event for the year. Registered for the 3 Singapore Sprint Series event and the first was the Sprint Biathlon.

Left home circa 615am and took the train to Harbourfront before hopping into the monorail to Sentosa, the race site. There was a long queue for the timing chip and i finally got mine with about 20 mins for warm up before race starts.

Put on my newly acquired 2XU red tritop and tights, swim cap and googles, arranged the transition stuff consisting of NB735 Red, socks, 2XU visor and Adidas shades before joining Burnz at the beach for warm up. Met Sanjeev and Daniel Gan.

The race started and i tried crawling forward but the current kept pushing me to the swim ropes. Switched to froggy and reached the u-turn point realising that i was second last. The ladies wave started later and the faster swimmers were already overtaking me by the time i swam past the 600m mark. Finally completed the swim in 29:41mins.

Ran up to transition to probably consolation applause of the spectators before EsKimo told me to hurry up. Threw swim cap and googles on the floor and put on socks, NB735, visor and shades before running out for the 5km run. As usual, took a while before my legs felt like running. Caught sight of Sanjeev and levelled up with him before overtaking, only to stop at a toilet for pee-break.

Had to overtake Sanjeev again before finishing the run in 35:32mins, with an overall race time of 1:06hrs. First event done, hope this sets me up for more.

Distance:
Swim: 750m
Run: 5km
Time: 1:06hrs
Shoe: NB735

Summary for week of 7 - 13 Apr 08

2008-05-05T11:24:00.004+08:00

ICT week.

Monday, 7 Apr: First day of ICT.
Tuesday, 8 Apr: IPPT. Managed to do 5 chin ups... enough for a S$100 incentive.
Wednesday, 9 Apr: Had a terrible time at the range. Enough said.
Thursday, 10 Apr: Standby day. Expected to spend 2 hours max at the office, ended up staying till 8pm.
Friday, 11 Apr: Ops day. Classified.
Saturday, 12 Apr: Another standby day. Hospitality institute agreement signed. Milestone for me.
Sunday, 13 Apr: In Bintan to follow up on the agreement signed. Did a 40km ride from Tampines-Pasir Ris-Changi-Tanah Merah-Simpang Bedok-Tampines with Ed on her new Helios 500.

ICT Year 9 - NSKU AK04

2008-05-05T11:24:00.003+08:00

Final year of ICT for me. Troop 2 shrunk to 13 troopers. Usual stuff, weapons training, IPPT, shooting. Did well for IPPT but can't say the same for shooting. Obviously something was wrong with the rifle when you have to zero it 7 times. The sight was still not straight and the trainers attributed it to fatique on my part. Anyhow, after 5 years of marksmanship, well... let's just say that i had to re-shoot... which i did pretty well.

Gonna miss the guys.

Summary for week of 31 Mar to 6 Apr 08

2008-05-05T11:17:00.004+08:00

Monday, 31 Mar: No training. Ed was sick.

Tuesday, 1 Apr: No training. IPPT in a week time and i was so unfit.

Wednesday, 2 Apr: No training.

Thursday, 3 Apr: No training.

Friday, 4 Apr: Wanted to do a slow and short run at stadium so that i can be fresh for Saturday's sea swim at Sentosa with Stazla and gang but L & T ride was too tempting to resist. Thought ride was only for 60km but ended doing 99km instead. Route taken was Tampines Ave 9, Ave 10, Old Tampines Rd, Upper Serangoon Rod, Hougang Aves 2 and 6, Compassvale, Anchorvale, FernVale, Jalan Kayu, Seletar estate, Seletar Dam, Yishun, Admiralty, Woodlands, Upper Bukit Timah rd, Dunearn Rd, Lavender Street, Kallang Rd, Guillemard Rd, ECP, Coastal Rd, Loyang Way, Tampines. Too bonked out when reached home at 3am.

Saturday, 5 Apr: Got up too late to join Stazla swim session. Spent the day slacking in front of the TV and packing for ICT instead.

Sunday, 6 Apr: Slacked all day. No training.

Summary for week of 24 - 30 Mar 08

2008-05-05T11:11:00.002+08:00

Monday, 24 Mar: No training

Tuesday, 25 Mar: No training.

Wednesday, 26 Mar: Short run + swim + run session.

Thursday, 27 Mar: No training

Friday, 28 Mar: No training, in Bintan.

Saturday, 29 Mar: No training

Sunday, 30 Mar: No training

Mini aquathlon on a Wednesday - 26 Mar 08

2008-03-26T23:45:00.002+08:00

I told myself and a few of my friends that i will be laying off training this week. What a big liar i am. The truth is, while i was nursing my dry cough and fever, my feet and hands were itching for any kind of workout.

Got back to work on Wednesday and weather was fine though dark clouds were lingering when the clock struck 5pm. Changed into my running attire of Mizuno white vest and black shorts, John Doe tag on ankle and NB 735 blue on feet. I also had with me a towel, goggles, swim cap and trunks.

Left office and headed for the 1km route to Jalan Besar swimming pool. Paid the S$1 entrance fee and changed into swimming attire. Jumped into the pool and started front crawl routine.

It must have been the toughest 8 x 50m i have ever swam in my life. Yes, close to 2 months ago i could't even swim freestyle but i should have been more relaxed. Thigh started to feel crampy by the time i hit the wall for the 4th time. Couldn't get into breathing on every 3rd stroke routine and ended up taking in air by the right only after every 2 pulls. Relaxed a while and continued another 4 laps, all with rest in between.

With 15mins to go before the clock hits 6pm, i decided i have had enough. At least i could swim continuously over 50m for 4 laps. Changed into running attire again and slowly ran the 1km back to office building.

Distance:

Ran: 2 x 1km

Swam: 8 x 50m

Retreat and re-strategise - Part 2

2008-03-26T23:27:00.003+08:00

So i've laid out what i intend to do and what i don't. Now the difficult part; training.

I've been doing jumpstart training for sometime now. Jumpstart training means starting at a level that is not the lowest, after being away from the sport through injury, busy working schedule or like me, sheer lazyness.

I know that my threshold level for a run is between 27-35km, depending on how far back the last race was. In addition, at my peak, circa June-Sep 06, i trained 5 times a week, on running. So the jumpstart training that i have been doing since February, after having been slacking for about 2 months after SCSM 07, was forcing myself to run distances like 13-22km at one go and having 4-5 workout sessions a week, sometimes at levels and pace i have never ventured before. The results: i find myself feeling depressed, having slow muscle recovery and prone to sickness like flu and fever, eventhough i take Esther-C every night.

Having acknowledged that this method of training does not seemed to be working well, i have decided to go back to basics, which is a very difficult thing to do.

Talked to one of my running sifus, Taz who is actually doing the same thing while recovering from an injury of sorts, and he shared with me his training regime. Run short distances; 4km, 6km 9.89km etc at slow, moderate, tempo and fartlek paces, increase distance gradually, once i feel comfortable.

Good advice. I shall go read up for a training regime for my fitness level. May be a little dificult with all the races coming up, mainly in May. But it shall be done. Short distance runs, long distance cycling and practice and practice on forward crawl swimming.

Retreat and re-strategise - Part 1

2008-03-25T22:04:00.003+08:00

Its late March and i have yet to compete in any event. Not in good shape to do so anyway. Took time off, thought about the events and made some decisions:

Not doing:

Kuala Lumpur International Marathon: Not many people knew i was going for this run. Have registered, reserved hotel room and bought bus tickets home. But surely not in any mental shape to attempt this. I have every confidence of finishing the run, but not hyped up to make my way up to KL for this. Choosing round the island ride instead of the SGRunners' Prata run last weekend was probably the clearest indication of where my priorities lie nowadays.
Sundown Ultramarathon: Probably registered for this event in a haste, peer pressure the main reason. No doubt i have the confidence to finish this run, all 84km of it, and as i write this, am still not too late to build up enough mileage and practice run to ensure i run with comfort on race day. Then again, just like KLIM, i am not over the moon with enthusiasm to attempt this. So i'll lose 50% of the registration fee, or i can just downgrade to the 42km run. No clear decisions on that yet. I just know that i have no interest to attempt the 84km run.
Singapore Ironman 70.3: Major disappointment. Kak J aka Harmoni pointed out that this event will be held on the 5 day of Ramadan. What a major screw up! How can they miss that fact out? Anyhow, guess i'll take it as S$335 saved instead.

Doing (I think so):

Tribob Singapore Sprint Series: All 3 events, for now. Biathlon in April, Duathlon in May and Triathlon in June
Bidor Half Marathon: Did this in 2006, event came early this year. Looking forward to the cold Red Bull at the finishing point, plus the sumptous food served while waiting for prize presentation.
A Farmosa Triathlon: Read about this in the Trifam forum. Heard so much about the swim in Milo water. Hope i will be able to make it for this!
Bintan Triathlon: Guess this is the event i have been basing my training upon. Home territory away from home. Did the run leg last year. Just need to tell myself that there is no pressure on me, no pressure.
OSIM Singapore Triathlon: Volunteered during the OD Race last year. The bike route seemed rather dangerous. Hope they make some changes this year!
Port Dickson Triathlon: Excellent event last year. Felt safe swimming. Must try the ayam percik at the pasar tani.
Tasik Kenyir Triathlon: Heard a lot about Tasik Kenyir, since my gung-ho days in SIM's ODAC. But the long travel will be a major minus point.
Desaru Long Distance Triathlon: Having decided to give up on SG 70.3, guess there is no way in heaven or hell i am not taking part in this. Will be good if i can drive there, giving more options when comes to meals.
Singapore Marathon: 3rd year attempting. Probably the only marathon i'll be doing this year.
MR25 Ultramarathon: Not really interested in doing, but need to keep in shape for the turn of the year.

Let's just hope there are no drastic changes to my life.

Summary for week of 17 - 23 Mar 08

2008-03-25T21:55:00.003+08:00

Monday, 17 Mar: 16km run at dawn followed by swim lessons after work.
Tuesday, 18 Mar: Travel day.
Wednesday, 19 May: Heavy rain spoiled my plan for 13km run. No training. Watched Ed's badminton match. My babe won her doubles match with ease.
Thursday, 20 Mar: 120km round the island ride with L & T riders.
Friday, 21 Mar: Good Friday. Butt and thigh hurt big time from the long ride.
Saturday, 22 Mar: Went around Singapore for food feast. Started at Little India for thosai and battura for lunch, Tanglin Mall for the best soy latte, Changi Village for chicken soup and satay for dinner and Siglap for cheesecake supper.
Sunday, 23 Mar: Dreamt i was running 34km. No training, other than bringing Ed for a 10km test ride on her new Polygon Helios 500.

Round the Island Ride - 20 Mar 08

2008-03-25T18:59:00.002+08:00

Lala had been bugging me to join him for rides. Finally there was one that i was available for, though it also meant i have to give up on SGRunners' Prata run, what would have been a better choice for the events that i have planned to participate in.

Anyhow, took leave from work that day and ensured that i had enough sleep. By 7pm, i was all geared up with Zoots Bike sleeveless jersey and Bike tights. Checked on Scott AFD and to my horror, the rear tyre was flat. Spent the next 10mins trying to solve the problem but the tyre just wouldn't inflate. Desperate situation calls for desperate measures, i decided to take a cab to the startpoint. So i grabbed Red Specialised helmet and put on Shimano TR-30 on the right foot and Asics Cumulus on the left.

This ride was facilitated by L & T Bike shop, somewhere at Tampines Street 44. Managed to get to startpoint just before 8. A large group had formed, in a mixture of roadies and MTB. I got the shop machanic to fix the rear wheel's problem for $7 and bought a new pair of gloves since i forgotten to bring one.

All set to go. Wan and Raja gave a briefing before i caught up with Alex Hong from Trifam with his uber cool Triton carbon bike. Before long, the ride started and I kept to the tail of the group.

The route will takes us from Tampines Street 44 - Loyang Rd - Changi Village - Coastal Rd - ECP - Fort Rd - Guillemard Rd - Nicoll Highway - Shenton Way - Keppel Rd - Telok Blangah Rd - Pasir panjang Rd - West Coast - Jurong West - Lim Chu Kang - Neo Tiew - Kranji - Mandai - Seletar - Sengkang - Hougang - Tampines, estimated to be 120km in total.

I was supposed to accompany Lala as sweeper but found him nowhere in sight by the time we left. I assumed the sweeper's role and accompanied a MTB from Loyang till we regrouped with the front pack at the entrance to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal Rd.

With Lala around, i joined the front pack, mainly made up of MTBs. We cruised our way through ECP and regrouped again at Fort Rd. Soon, the roadies caught up with us. From here, the next pit stop will be at Pasir Panjang Wholesale Market. We let the MTB proceed first and moved off after about 5mins. The roadies started slow but by the time we got to Nicoll Highway it was fast and furious time. My speedo recorded about 32-35km/h at this stretch.

As we left Keppel Rd, it was even faster, since there were no traffic. Speedo captured 37-39km/h at this stretch as i drafted behind, overtook, led and then drafted again behind fellow roadies. To my disappointment, there was no eatable read food served at the rest point so i had to settle for kaya toast and 3 cans of 100plus.

We moved off to the next Pit Stop, supposedly at Kranji Kopitiam. The group was spreadout pretty thinly and i was determined not to be among the last. As i passed Lala at Pandan Reservoir, i knew that i was not and after a couple of red lights, i caught up with the pack of MTBs and some roadies.

Lim Chu Kang Cemetary was the location for the next regroup point and as we waited for Lala the sweeper, i tested out Alex's Triton. Very responsive bike. Started to feel cramps creeping on right thigh so i did some stretching.

We then moved as a pack through Neo Tiew and stopped at Kranji Rd Kopi Tiam, where the other half of roadies seemed to have waited for sometime. Another dose of 100plus and a spray of deep heat later, i was ready to move off, until someone reminded me that i have forgotten to put on my helmet. Realised that i left it outside the toilet, the group left and i was among the last by the time i move off.

A couple of traffic light stops and the group got stretched even more thinly. As i entered Mandai Rd, i braced myself for the long upslope climb. I was probably down to my lightest gear and concentrated on continuously cycling my way up the slope. A lady MTB drafted behind and we finally got to the top of the slope after the entrance to Singapore Zoo.

A few riders were ahead and we motioned to ride as a pack as we caught up with them. At the junction of Seletar Rd, a police car attended to a road traffic accident involving 2 badly damaged cars. We proceeded on and rode across Lentor Ave to make our way to Yishum/Seletar Dam.

Looked like most of the riders were waiting for us as we arrived at the Dam. The place seemed to be a hangout for many bengs and mats racers. The police were there too. Raja mentioned that we have 10km to go to surpass 100km. My butt hurts.

We left via the road surrounding Seletar Airport and passed by Jalan Kayu. I would loved to have a plate of 2 prata kosong but wanted to finish the ride. We went through Fernvale, then Anchorvale and Compassvale before i led the group to Tampines Rd via my old playground at Hougang.

We regrouped for the last time at Tampines Rd and as soon as the group got bigger, we left for Tampines. I cycled-standing for most of the route by then, butt was sore real bad. Finally got to Tampines and i was contemplating on heading straight home but the promise of prata was too much to give up. Reached end point just before 4am.

The kopi shop ran out of prata but it was an enjoyable ride nonetheless. 120km in total, an increase of 30km from my last max of 90km at Desaru LD Tri.

Distance: 120km

Swim lesson - 17 Mar 08

2008-03-18T09:13:00.002+08:00

Venue changed to Delta pool. Very old complex. Toilet was dirty. Training pool was shallow, at 0.8m. I was tired!! No sleep, 22km run in the morning and now swim lessons at night.

Anyhow, did the usual kicking with board warmup before doing catch-up with board swim for a few laps. Revised the catch-up thumps together front crawl swimming before proceeding to normal front crawl swim. Think i found my relaxed position in thumps together front crawl as i had a very hard time swimming normal front crawl after that. Butt and legs kept on sinking. The shallower pool made me very cautious of not kicking the floor. I also had difficulty rolling over on my right (breathing left) and drank lots and lots of chlorine water (can tell by the size of my tummy after the lesson).

Coach pulled me over and said, "I got to be honest with you. I think you will take a longer time to get your swim right. You can tell for yourself. Just make sure you remain patient. There are others like you who gave up, but there are also those that completed ironman races". Think i will take that as a motivation and challenge, not a discouragement. Thanks Coach.

Batteries went flat after an hour and my shoulders were sore. Legs felt light, probably the after effects of the morning run setting in. Not a good session for me. I've seen better days.

Monday Run at Dawn - 17 Mar 08

2008-03-17T12:14:00.002+08:00

Got back from Shah Alam at 445am and headed to office as the drop off point was at Golden Mile. Ed decided to head to her parents place and i didn't want to go all the way home when i'm right in front of the office. Entered office and made my presence felt to Linda, not the first time i appeared at office in the wee hours of the morning.

Knowing that i will not be able to sleep, i changed into Adidas white tee, black shorts, NB 735 Blue, USK on race belt, white Nike cap, Zen in hand and headed out for a run. Run started at 530am. Plan was to do a return of the 26km abandoned on Friday due to the rain and time constraint.

Started rather fast this time around. Reached Esplanade for first pit stop and continued on towards Kim Seng. Felt pace was too fast so i slowed down, to save my legs for distance ahead. Stopped at Clarke Quay for the second pit stop but by then i already felt tired. Guess the intermitent sleep on the bus didn't go too well with a morning run. I should be getting some sleep instead.

Nevertheless, i continued on, going up the Esplanade bridge and turning left towards Marina South at Maxwell Rd. Time was already 7am then so i decided against doing the long route and headed straight for the pier instead. Pit stop 3 was at the pier. Didn't bring powergel and the shops were closed so i settled for tap water.

Slowly made my way back to Raffles Place, cutting into the new road that leads to Lao Pa Sat instead of using Maxwell Rd. Last pit stop was at Esplanade, but i was dead tired by then. Walked-jogged the rest of the way back to the end point at Crawford Street.

Distance covered was 22.4km, according to Mapmyrun.com.

Shoe: NB 745 Blue

Feelings: Tired. Probably a very bad idea to do this run but i needed the mileage. Legs felt like jelly.

Summary for week of 10 - 16 Mar 08

2008-03-17T12:08:00.002+08:00

Sick and travel.

Monday, 10 Mar: Swim session.
Tuesday, 11 Mar: ENR cancelled due to rain.
Wednesday, 12 Mar: No training. Had high fever at night.
Thursday, 13 Mar: On MC, Doc gave me some tablets for flu and fever and syrup for cough.
Friday, 14 Mar: Still down with flu and cough, fever's gone. 16.8km run after work.
Saturday, 15 Mar: Has' wedding at Shah Alam.
Sunday, 16 Mar: Still at Shah Alam. Took the night bus back to Singapore.

A wedding in Shah Alam - 15 and 16 Mar 08

2008-03-17T11:39:00.002+08:00

Decided to go for this as i will not be able to make it for the celebrations in Singapore come end of March. So Ed, Has' bro Sab and I took the late Friday night bus and headed to Shah Alam. The only thing i knew about Shah Alam prior to this trip was the Stadium that looked like Huddersfield Football Club's stadium. I also knew that Shah Alam has the biggest mosque in Malaysia and a velodrome.

So after close to 8 hours on the bus, including 2hours at Tuas checkpoint thanks to tri_mas, we finally reached Shah Alam bus terminal at Section 17. Took a cab to Quality Hotel and rested until lunch with Stan.

Fast forward to evening. I contributed my 2 cents worth of thinking into the planning for this wedding, all because i don't like the idea of travelling all the way there just to be a free-riding guest. Therefore, my job was to remind Has and Sab, all the small little things about the ceremony, things that people tends to forget; like arrangement of transport, copies of prayers etc.

We left the hotel just after 7 and headed to a surau near the bride's place. After Maghrib, we slowly walked to the house, with gifts in hand. The kadi arrived soon after and relatives were all excited. A microphone was placed where Has was supposed to be seated. Don't remember that being around for me. Anyhow, everything went well, groom looked calm and oath was clear.

Everything else was just like any other typical Malay wedding. A little variation from the ones in Singapore here and there but everything else was similar.

Next day, Sunday, was the "sanding" day. This is where the groom appears at the bride's place to take her back to his. I checked to ensure that Sab had the toll money (commonly used to gain passage to the stage, where the bride normally wait at). No toll was present however, probably because the bride waited and joined the groom outside the ceremony, another variation from that in Singapore. As the ceremony went into full flow, Ed and i sat around watching, making funny faces at Has everytime he looked at our direction.

Good experience this trip. The thing that impressed me most about the event, was the camaraderie of the neighbours. The bride's place was a semi-detached house, and the recemony area was on the road in front of the house. This meant that the road needed to be closed. Stations for other essentials like drinks counter, dishes washing area, music booth were also set up in the neighbours' varandah. Honestly, no way will you get that in Singapore, no way at all.

Ed and i took the late night bus back to Singapore, as neither of us took leave from work on Monday.

Congrats to Has and Yati!!

Friday Evening Run - 14 Mar 08

2008-03-17T11:14:00.002+08:00

Taking the night bus up to Shah Alam for Has' wedding so i thought a little run will help me sleep. Right on 6pm, i left office, wearing white Adidas tee, black shorts, USK in my newly acquired Nathan's bottle pouch, 2 packs of powergel, a bottle of Ultraman's recipe diluted 100plus, Creative Zen, white Nike cap and NB 735 blue. Started the run right on junction of Beach Rd and Jalan Sultan. Planned for a 26km in 3hrs, rather daunting, via the same ol' Crawford - Kim Seng but with Marina South Pier sandwiched in between.

My last run was a while ago so i decided to take this slow. Took a while before my legs warmed up and by then it was time for pit-stop 1 at Esplanade. Continued towards Kim Seng, by the river, passing by Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay and finally u-turning at Kim Seng. Choosed to go Kim Seng first as the Quays may be crowded as the moon rises and due to the weather too.

Felt a slight discomfort at Robertson Quay but slowly jogged to Esplanade, stopping by Clarke Quay toilet for pit-stop 2. Had my first pack of Powergel before continuing on. Got to Esplanade and the clouds seemed heavy. Decided to continue but turn back as soon as i feel the first drop of rain. Indeed, the sky opened up, lightly, when i reached Maxwell Rd. No Marina South today so i turned back and was contemplating on taking a bus to office when the rain got heavier. Thankfully, no need for EZLink card as the sky started to clear when i reached Raffles Place.

Thought about continuing to Marina South but ran back to Crawford as time was already 8pm. Meeting Ed and Has' brother at 945pm but i will also need to shower first. Had to slow down everytime i feel cramps creeping in on left calf.

Distance: 16.8km (according to MapmyRun.com)

Shoe: NB 735 Blue

Feelings: Good to have completed the run and distance. A little worried about the cramps on left calf, never had that before.

Man down

2008-03-12T23:18:00.004+08:00

Have not been feeling too good for a while now. Last Monday after swim class, i was really hurting. Sore muscles, fever, flu and cough. Thought i could fight it off with vitamin C and cough syrup but guess i lost that fight.

After 10 days of trying, i gave up. Took piriton for the flu. Adding that to the cough syrup, vitamin C, glucosamine and anti-histamines i have been taking regularly, and i can probably start my own pharmacy.

What went wrong? Did i over-exerted myself? Going to the doc tomorrow. Hope i can sleep tonite.

Raining cats, dogs, elephants and buffalos

2008-03-12T22:54:00.004+08:00

As the saying goes, when it rains, it pours. Rainy season started rather late this year. It has been raining cats, dog and everything that comes in between for the last 2 weeks, disrupting my training schedule.

Tuesday, 11 Mar

Was contemplating between CBD Run, yoga with the BRF gang, ENR ride or a ninja run after sending my bike to Rodalink for servicing. After much ding-dongs here and there, which i can't seem to recall much about, i decided to go with ENR.

Sky started to clear by 6pm at Beach Rd but someone posted in the Trifam forum that there was a storm at Tampines. So ride was off. No training again. Should have just gone for the Yoga.

Wednesday, 12 Mar

Took pm off. Initial plan was to get home, and bring the bike out to Rodalink, collect Ed's new Helios 500 and go for a practice ride at ECP. SKy disagreed so we collected the bike, took a taxi home and watched CSI and WWE Raw on tv instead.

Badly in need of training now, but feeling very much under the weather.

Swim lessons: 10 Mar 08

2008-03-11T16:43:00.003+08:00

Crawling forward with every pull

Good session today, though it ended rather weirdly. Got to Bishan pool at 7. It was raining cats and dogs so i guessed the water will be uber cold, and cold it was indeed.

Did the normal warm-up, then refresher of the pull and recovery with kickboard before staring on the thumbs together forward crawl. Managed to do full laps, though my legs were swaying from side to side on every pull. Breathing wasn't relaxed. Hell, i wasn't relaxed at all. More of struggling i must say.

Graduated to side strokes after that and i felt weird, even groggy. As if i'm suffering from motion sickness. Motion sickness!! Me??

Anyway, guess i need to do homework on the forward crawl and side strokes, with 2 months to go to Bintan Tri.

Summary for period of 3 - 9 Mar 07

2008-03-11T14:04:00.002+08:00

Monday, 3 Mar: Swim lessons

Tuesday, 4 Mar: Strained triceps, shoulders and back. Rest day.

Wednesday, 5 Mar: Travel day. Down with flu and cough. Physio Jai did his stuff, commenting that i seemed bigger now. Got a shock when i weighed myself at Coach Suhaimi's room; 10kg above my ideal weight. HHmm... good? bad? ugly?

Thursday, 6 Mar: Travel day again. Still suffering from flu and cough. Had a craving for Chillis.. the mexican kind... so got home, toasted then pounded some cumin, browned some minced beef, threw in onions, garlic, tomatoes and paste, roasted some potatoes and toasted bread for a nice dinner.

Friday, 7 Mar: Travelled again. Had a nice facial treatment before meeting IAS for boys-nite-out dinner.

Saturday, 8 Mar: Dreamt that i was riding at Coastal Rd. No training, still coughing. Went to Rodalink, Ed bought a Helios 500. This 10-speed bike is fitted with Shimano 105s. Guessed her bike will be better than mine? Nah.. its not the machine that matters, its the engine. Continued our shopping spree at Sim Lim. Got her a PSP for her birthday. Bad move? Verdict to be out in 2 months....

Sunday, 9 Mar: Dreamt that i was striding along ECP, waving at fellow runners coming from opposite direction, stopping at NSRCC for the sunrise. No training, still coughing. Ed's birthday, so had a family dinner, her family, after watering plants at my dad's place. About the dinner...?? Nevermind.... need some getting used to... all of us that is. Managed to end the night with a surprise for Ed. How can a birthday be a birthday without a birthday cake? That's actually just my excuse to eat a cake. The surprise...... nah.... not sharing my ideas.

Swim lessons: 3 Mar 08

2008-03-11T13:51:00.004+08:00

The day i crawled forward

Took am off and after running a few errands, got to Bishan stadium. With close to 2 hours to go before lessons begins, i did some swim of my own. Breaststroke swim. 20 laps, with rest after every lap.

Distance: 20 x 50m

Continued to swim lesson by warming up with the chin-on-water, hands-on-kickboard, kick-till-you-tire routine for 6 laps. Coach told me to continue with pull-and-recover with kickboard. I was starting to get real frustrated but remembering Coach's words [it is harder when using kickboard, but when you are ready i will take it away, and you'll swim very fast], i persevered on.

Indeed, a short while after, Coach took my kickboard and told me to swim without it, breathing after every 3 pulls [means breathing from one side then the other], thump together before every pull. I recovered my enthusiasm, and perhaps must have overdid it, as i felt strain of my triceps. Could the breaststroke swim have played a part in that?

Lessons ended with me on a high. But my kicking still sucked.

Summary for the period 25 Feb - 2 Mar

2008-03-11T13:48:00.002+08:00

Monday, 25 Feb: Swim lessons

Tuesday, 26 Feb: CBD Run

Wednesday, 27 Feb: Vertical marathon training.

Thursday, 28 Feb: No training.

Friday, 29 Feb: No training.

Saturday, 1 Mar: On duty at NATAS Fair.

Sunday, 2 Mar: Got up late for National Vertical Marathon, hence missed it. I didn't feel like going anyway.

Slacking or resting??

2008-02-29T18:55:00.004+08:00

Been doing jumpstart training for a few weeks now. I must say that i'm starting to feel a wee bit strained. Erratic behaviour, mood swings, sore muscles..... what am i training for? I dunno.....

28 Feb 08
Didn't swim today, though i got back early after work. Missed the days when i would just spend hours after hours watching TV, without a care, except for next programme on show. I tried that but even with cable TV, what good programmes can possibly be shown at 7pm?

29 Feb 08
Rest day. Had a craving for cheese on toast, good goat's cheese i mean. *slurp*

Vertical Marathon Training - 27 Feb 08

2008-02-27T18:07:00.002+08:00

Stress at work taking its toll and National Vertical Marathon is just around the corner. So i decided to forgo my by-now weekly Crawford-Kim Seng 13km loop run for some anti-gravity workout.

Meeting with GA ate into 5pm but thankfully it ended by 510pm. Rushed to my workstation and changed into SCSM07 vest and Adidas black shorts, USK and NB735 Blue. Did a short run to one of the 30 storey flats along Victoria Street, opposite ICA Building.

Did 2 sets of 30 storeys and managed to wrap everything up, which include a short run back to office, before 6pm.

Shoe: NB 735 Blue

Distance: 2 sets of 30 storeys

CBD Run: Set E - 26 Feb 08

2008-02-27T11:30:00.002+08:00

Set E is Mount Faber loops, dreadful but appetising.

Left office at 6pm and was the first few to reach startpoint. Spotted dark, heavy clouds in the sky and was in two minds about running. Nevertheless, put on NB 735 Blue and USK, having already changed to Mizuno Orange and black shorts at the office.

Soon, more runners arrived and we set off running by 7. The route was Tanjung Pagar Rd - Spottiswoode Park - Kampong Baru Rd - Mt Faber - Kampong Baru Rd - Spottiswoode Park - Tanjung Pagar. I started at the back of the pack and remained there for most of the route.

We passed by the shophouses at Everton Park on the way to Kampong Baru and saw a filming taking place. I wasn't tired yet, just that my legs and arms were sore from Monday's swim lessons. Used ST as my pacer, the girl has improved so much since the first time i ran with her.

Laserrunner was fast, and was ahead of me by the time we climbed up Mount Faber. The slope was very steep and i had difficulty slowing down my breathing. That has been a problem since i picked up Triathlon. Maybe i should do yoga again.

Got to the top of Mount Faber and went down towards Wishart Rd, seeing some cyclists along the way. Halfway down, i turned left and made my way up to the top again, with ST following close behind, and Laserrunner just ahead. Reaching the top, i felt something going into my eyes and stopped to clear. That was when i lost sight of Laserrunner. Tigger was around, asking if i want to do an extra loop, Laserrunner is just ahead. The rest of the group will be going back to startpoint.

I decided to do the extra loop, and slowly made my way down and up again. No sign of Laserrunner but Terrance and Batx caught up after completing their 3 loops. I ran down the hill with Batx but he sped off once we reached Kampong Baru. So i was left running all alone, back to the startpoint.

Didn't have my Polar with me so i had to ask for time from a passerby, just outside the Railway station. He told me it was 2040hrs. I'm sure the rest must have arrived at the end point, so i did a fast one all the way back.

Felt good, excellent route, the slopes were steep but thats probably the kind of route i should be doing.

Shoe: NB 735 Blue

Distance: 15km

Swim lessons - 25 Feb 08

2008-02-27T11:25:00.002+08:00

Monday meant swim lessons. Did the usual kicking with board as warm-ups. The difference between this lessons and others is that i can move forward, finally... though not when my head is above water.. but encouraging nonetheless.

I must have done over-water recovery for 30 laps or so, and my arms were really sore. Over-enthusiastic kicking meant my legs were tired too.

Good session... though i felt my batteries going flat after an hour. Need to spend more time in the water.

Summary for period of 18-24 Feb 08

2008-02-25T14:49:00.002+08:00

Week 2 of jumpstart training:

Monday, 18 Feb: Swim training.

Tuesday, 19 Feb: CBD Run.

Wednesday, 20 Feb: Wednesday run.

Thursday, 21 Feb: Slight flu, no training.

Friday, 22 Feb: Slow LD Swim.

Saturday, 23 Feb: Totally forgot about the Sundown Fam Run. Lepak at home instead.

Sunday, 24 Feb: Another lepak day. Watched a very touching show in "Just like Heaven". Lovely.

Good training week, though could have been better. Need to keep my enthusiasm, and sometimes the lack of it, in check.

Swim session - 22 Feb 08

2008-02-22T18:52:00.003+08:00

Took AM off just so that i can do some swim.

As usual, got up at 4am, stared at the ceiling until i decide to get up at 630am. Contemplated between swimming and biking and choosed the former. Got to the pool at 745am and did some stretching. Lifeguards on duty told me that only the deep pool is open, while the rest will have to wait till 8am.

Did a 4 x 50m warm up, using breaststroke. Moved to the 1.5m pool to revise pull and recovery with board routine as instructed by Coach AT. Didn't get the best results and decided to give up after 15mins. Sat for a while, thought about going home. I still can't kick forward.... should i give up. LSP pointed out to numbskull me on Thursday that i have only been to 5 lessons and had never swam free-style/forward crawl prior to that. That thought kept me going.

I stopped practising the routine though and did laps of breaststroke instead. The deep pool reminded me of CTE Potong Pasir at peak hour, congested with ah sohs and makciks doing their version of aquarobics on one side while a group of students monkeyed around on the other.

After 3 laps, i spotted a white space at the centre lane and staked my claim. Slowly did a 27 x 50m to add to the 3 i did earlier. Had to stop at end of every lap as the goggles fogged up. An older swimmer with belly the size of an elephant swam slowly beside me. Admired his determination though. Managed to wrap everything up by 9am.

Good session but Coach AT won't be too pleased if i don't show any improvements on Monday.

Distance:

- 4 x 50m

- 30 x 50m

Wednesday's Run - 20 Feb 08

2008-02-20T19:44:00.002+08:00

Did a 13km run at same ol' Crawford Street-Kim Seng-Crawford Street route again. Left office at 5pm after changing into my SCSM 07 Adidas blue vest and black Adidas shorts, putting on USK, plastered nipples and NB 735 Blue with Creative Zen MP3 in hand.

Did a light jog to the startpoint and started the run circa 1707hrs. Got to Marina Promenade and ran past the Singapore Flyer, Floating platform's grandstand before a toilet break at Esplanade. Then i continued on, passing by Empress Place, Clarke Quay, Robertson Walk, opposite Zouk before u-turning at Kim Seng Rd.

Took the same way back but a toilet break at Clarke Quay instead. Managed to return to startpoint at 1842hrs, meaning a 1:35hrs run. Certainly not race pace but the time is 5mins off last week's.

Felt good but tired throughout, probably due to yesterday's fast and furious CBD Run and my lack of sleep. Talking about sleep, i hope I'm not developing a wake-up-at-3am habit although waking up at 3am on Thursday morning will be good, so that i can watch Man Utd play Lyon.

Distance: 13km

Time: 1:35hrs

Shoe: NB 735 Blue.

CBD Run - 19 Feb 08

2008-02-20T09:30:00.002+08:00

Was expecting to do 13km, but ended up with just 7km.

Left office at 6pm after putting on my Mizuno Blue vest and shorts. Got to Tg Pagar and found that i was the first to arrive. More runners appeared soon after, including Yeehua, ST, stevebp and IMD. ST informed that Tiwazz was down with fever so will not be coming down, meaning no baggage security services since Coach Tigger is still overseas after running the weekend Tokyo marathon.

Ronnie came by and we discussed about the run. Stevebp volunteered to keep the bags company while IMD suggested doing a short 7km run to Marina Pier and back, so that stevebp doesn't have to wait long. I put on my newly acquired NB735 Blue and USK.

Off we went, first at a steady pace and then faster. Before long, we arrived at Marina Pier. I took a pee-break before continuing the run with ST, at what was supposed to be a slow run. Probably i was the guilty party, our speed seemed to increase with every step, and we ended the run with a semi-sprint.

Good run, short but fast.

Distance: 7km

Shoe: NB 735 Blue

Swim lesson - 18 Feb 08

2008-02-20T09:25:00.002+08:00

4th lesson and i still couldn't kick forward. Rather depressing. Coach AT probably realised and pulled me aside for a pep talk, during and after lesson.

I would liken this to the 30km stage of a marathon, where you seriously ask yourself if you have what it takes to complete the race, without knowing what the last 12km have in store for you.

Inspiration.... leading to depression??

2008-02-19T17:15:00.005+08:00

I saw 2 things that inspired me. Unfortunately these two things led me to a reflection, which could possible contribute to me feeling a little down these few days.

Observation 1:

During the 2.4km IPPT Training, AM told me about the le tour de langkawi telecast on tv. I have never found joy watching cycling races on tv but decided to give this a chance. What i saw truely inspired me. The race was from Temerloh in Pahang to Fraser's Hill. Just a few weeks a go i had a hard time driving up that hill. And the bikers seems to ease their way up, rather effortlessly. Which led me to think: What kind of training is required for a rider to do that? Should the triathlon or duathlon races be that slopy or hilly, what will be required of me to make my way to the finish line? Can i do that? Right now, no way? Not even close.....

Observation 2:

Got to Bishan pool early on Monday. None of my classmates were around so i decided to take a dip in the pool, watching some small kids swim. There was this one kid, swimming very close to me. He effortlessly glided his way in water, and breaststroked in a way i've never seen before. There was i, been swimming breaststroke for a long time, very badly i must add, but effectively nonetheless. And i see this kid swimming, i feel inspired, even tried his strokes, and realised that, even will all the survival test i've been put through, the sprint multi-sport races i've completed, i've been a crappy swimmer all these time.

Sucks.........

Summary for the period 10-17 Feb 08

2008-02-19T17:11:00.002+08:00

Easing my way back to fitness:

Sunday, 10 Feb 08: BG Run.

Monday, 11 Feb 08: Swim class.

Tuesday, 12 Feb 08: CBD Run.

Wednesday, 13 Feb 08: Wed 5pm run.

Thursday, 14 Feb 08: Swim.

Friday, 15 Feb 08: No training.

Saturday, 16 Feb 08: East West East Ride.

Sunday, 17 Feb 08: 2.4km IPPT Training with AK04.

Training for IPPT 2.4km - 17 Feb 08

2008-02-19T17:01:00.002+08:00

Throughout my entire National Service years, be it full time or reservist, i have never put in any training for 2.4km. Since the ICT i have been called up for coming April will be my last, i decided to start a training session, inviting my fellow troopers from AK4.

Only AM, OC Troop, appeared on the first day of training, where i planned to do a warm up 2.4km followed by a warm down 2.4km, just to instill confidence and get rid of distance barrier some troopers may have. However, AM has no such problem. I clearly remembered him overtaking me during the last lap of last year's IPPT 2.4km test, finishing 10sec ahead of me, though i still insist the overtaking was possible as my path was blocked by another runner.

Anyhow, another SGT, SGT Y overslept and did not appear, so it was just AM and me. We started off, as per schedule, a slow 2.4km and followed that up with an even slower closing 2.4km.

I didn't feel any problems, no pain of the ankles, no feeling of stopping or giving up. Next week will be, hopefully, a 2.4km warming up, followed by 6 sets of 200m sprint and 200m jog intervals, ending with a slow 2.4km warming down.

Distance: 2 x 2.4km

Shoe: Asics Cumulus

East - West - East Ride - 16 Feb 08

2008-02-19T16:35:00.002+08:00

Have not been putting effort for cycling, compared to running and swimming. So i got up early on Saturday, if you would call 6am early. Changed into my newly acquired Zoot cycle-singlet, cycle-tights and wore Shimano Tri-bike shoes on the right leg and Asics Cumulus on the left.

Left house just before 7am. Took Tampines Avenue 5 towards Tanah Merah Road via Xi Lin Avenue and ended up just before Coastal Rd. Was in two minds about doing a lap at Coastal but i decided to stick to the original plan of heading towards Rifle Range Rd.

Cycled to Fort Rd via ECP, adhering to the 15km/hr speed limit. I pick up speed as i entered Guillemard Rd and turned into Nicoll Highway, crossing Esplanade Bridge before having to stop due to a red light just outside One Fullerton. A historical thing happened here; for the first time since i acquired the bike from Jason, i fell. Not sure what i tried to do but somehow the centre of gravity veered towards my right, where my right foot was clipped to the pedals via the Shimano bike shoes. So i fell. I immediately got up, more embarrased and angry than hurt, mount the bike again and moved off as the lights had turned green.

I felt a slight pain on my right knee and looked down and saw blood. Managed to strugged off the pain and continued the ride, passing by Shenton Way, Keppel Road, Telok Blangah Road, Pasir Panjang Road, West Coast Road before turning into Clementi Road, weaving my way through heavy vehicles. The route has been flat throughout but at Clementi Rd, i experienced the first of many slopes. Tortoised my way uphill and used the momentum to bring me downhill, crossing AYE before another slope slowed me down. I then crossed Commonwealth Rd, continued on Clementi Rd before turning right into Holland Road. Another slope was waiting and i tortoised my way up again, turning left down into 6th Avenue for a pit stop at Coffee Bean.

Saw some more pro-looking bikers with cool looking bikes, i was salivating. After a long rest, i told myself not to return via the same way. If the East West route were filled with heavy vehicles, the route i was about to take for the return will be filled with heavy traffic, vehicles of all sizes, shapes and make.

Started at Dunearn Rd, i rode slowly down towards Little India before turning left into Race Course Road. I then entered Kitchener Road before weaving through traffic and ended up at Victoria Street. I passed by Kallang Road, entering Geylang Road, Sims Avenue before taking a pit stop at Boon Supplies, aka Soon Huat bike shop.

Got the abang machanic to loosen the platform pedals so that i can fixed the other side of Shimano Ultegra pedals. After a short break, i proceed back home, attacking the slope where Kembangan meets Chai Chee, turning into Chai Chee and headed for Tampines via Bedok Reservoir Rd. As speedo were showing 62km, i did a loop near Tampines Fire Station before completing 70km just under my block.

Good ride, though would have loved company. Next ride, to go North and return via West-East.

Distance: 70km

Swim - 14 Feb 08

2008-02-19T16:31:00.003+08:00

While learning forward crawl, i felt that i needed to keep in touch with breaststroke so i did a short swim after work.

Arrived at Tampines pool just before 8pm. Changed into Arena trunks and dived into the deep pool. Managed to do 10 sets of 100m, with a short rest in between every sets. Realised that i took less than 40mins to complete, down 15mins from the same distance i did early in the year, and 10mins from the swim session i did a week ago.

Distance: 10 by 100m

Wednesday run - 13 Feb 08

2008-02-19T16:21:00.002+08:00

Been a while since i did a Wednesday run from office and even longer while since i ran on 2 consecutive days. So Wednesday came by and i took the 5pm workout priviledge for a short 13km run.

Changed into my Orange Mizuno vest and black shorts just before 5pm. Put on TNF Arnuva Boa 50 and USK before heading out of office. After a light stretch of the muscles, did a slow jog towards the startpoint at Crawford Street.

Construction of paddock for the F1 race meant a diversion for me. I took the SCSM 39-42km route, running along Temasek Boulevard before turning in just before Esplanade. A toilet stop later and i continued my run past the River Hongbao, Empress Place, Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay, opposite Zouk before a u-turn at Kim Seng Road.

Took the same route back but felt tightness and sore of the right thigh. I managed to pull myself together and finish the run just under 1:40hrs.

Distance: 13km

Shoe: TNF Aruva Boa 50.

CBD Run - Pre Valentine's Day

2008-02-19T16:12:00.003+08:00

I remembered last year's Pre-Valentine's Day CBD Run, good short run, games and lots of food. No different this year. Left office just after 6pm. Reached the startpoint and put on TNF Boa 50 and USK, having already changed into my Mizuno Blue vest and shorts at the office. Lots of SGRunners were already at scene, including Tigger, who gave a briefing on the route before starting the run.

We ran down Shenton Way towards Esplanade and then turned under the Esplanade bridge towards Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay along the Singapore River before a pit stop just opposite Zouk. It was then a slow run back via Jiak Kim St, Outram Rd, Cantonment Rd, Tanjung Pagar Rd towards the end point.

My legs were still aching from the BG Run and Alex's swim class on Monday. Nevertheless, it was a joy seeing and running with my fellow SGRunners. Tiwazz came by the start/end point with food, while Sotong led some quiz concerning Valentine's Day. ST and Roonz came out with some lovely Valentine's Day runner's medals. Thank you Sgrunners!!

Distance: 7km

Shoe: TNF Boa 50

Botanical Garden Run - 10 Feb 08

2008-02-13T19:12:00.012+08:00

It has been a long while since i did the BG Run. It was one of the first few i did when i first joined SGRunners back in 2006.

Anyway, on run day i got up at 0530hrs, showered, applied Neat Cream at abrasion prone areas, plastered nipples, put on Adidas Orange Tee, black shorts and left the house. Took bus 67 for the long journey to Bukit Timah, old SMU.

Arrived at startpoint just before 7am, where SGRunners' Ripley, Tiwazz, Charlotte, Eliza and Ultraman were already waiting. Put on my Boa 50 and USK while waiting for Brokie and SV to appear.

Appear they did and we eventually started the run just before 715am. We headed towards Holland Road, slowly climbing the upward slope of Evans Rd. Turning right, we turned right again to a side road which led us to many, many big houses. Eventually we came out to Farrer Rd and turned right towards Serene Centre. We then crossed the road towards National JC and entered a road where there were many big houses and steep slopes. I felt comfortable climbing up the slopes but the lack of training showed in the way i pant.

We appeared outside NUSS and crossed the overhead bridge, continuing our run towards University Drive and ending the run at the startpoint.

Good run, lots of slopes. Good way to heat up the legs after months of inactivity.

Distance: 10km

Shoe: TNF Boa 50

Summary for the period 4 - 9 Feb

2008-02-13T19:12:00.009+08:00

Easing my way back to fitness.

4 Feb: swim training with Coach Alex Tung.

5 Feb: Rushed to ECP F2 to join Trifam's ENR's ride but ride got cancelled when i arrived. Showers over PA half of ECP. After a drink at Lagoon's food centre, left for a slow ride to Changi Village via Coastal Rd. Road was all dried, no sign of rain. Distance covered: 20km.

6-7 Feb: Chinese New Year Eve and Day, most places closed, including stadium and pool. No training.

8 Feb: Dragged Ed and myself out of bed at 7am for a walk to Bedok Reservoir and back. Distance covered about 7km. Surprised to find swimming pool opened. Did a revision of what was taught at Alex's lessons and then did 20laps of breaststroke without rest.

9 Feb: No training.

Good re-start.

Summary for period of 19 Jan - 3 Feb

2008-02-13T19:12:00.007+08:00

Life after marriage. Wedding, honeymoon and settling down before starting training again.

19-20 Jan: Solemnisation and wedding reception.
21-22 Jan: Cleared outstanding bills from wedding.
23-28 Jan: Honeymoon. Stucked in traffice at Johor Causeway checkpoint, so had to miss Alex's lesson.
29 Jan - 3 Feb: No training. Adapting back to working life.

Wedding and Marriage - 19 and 20 Jan 08

2008-02-13T19:11:00.005+08:00

After 10 years of courtship, we finally got married. Check-out this website for more info: http://mywedding.com/edianandraihan . Pictures will be uploaded soon.

Summary for period of 1 - 18 Jan 08

2008-02-13T19:09:00.004+08:00

Final preparations for wedding, managed to squeeze some work-out.

1 - 5 Jan: No training.
6 Jan: did a 6km run round the neighbourhood.
7 Jan: Got home early so did 20 laps at Tampines pool, with rest.
8 Jan: CBD Run. SGRunners CBD wing organised a Wedding run for IMD and Yeehua, Ed and me. Ed couldn't make unfortunately.
9-13 Jan: No training.
14 Jan: Started swim training with the legendary Alex Tung. Hope i can swim forward crawl before May comes.
15-18 Jan: Busy with wedding preparations, no training.

What 2008 should be.....

2007-12-31T23:49:00.000+08:00

2008 should be..... the year i.....

1. get married
2. do at least 2 full marathons (KL and Singapore??)
3. learn to swim front crawl
4. do at least 2 OD Triathlons (Bintan and Port Dickson??)
5. conquer either Singapore 70.3 Ironman or Desaru Long Distance Triathlon
6. do Powerman Malaysia Duathlon
7. cover at least 65km for the Sundown Double Marathon

Summary for the period 2 - 31 Dec 07

2007-12-31T23:43:00.001+08:00

Injured and stressed out for most of this month.

2 Dec 07: SCSM 07
3 - 30 Dec: No runs, no training. Instead, i spent this period screaming at my renovation contractor, carrying heavy junks from Dad's to my new place, heated arguments and discussion with parents etc.

But 2007 ended with a physical note nonetheless. Managed to lift my lazy butt to Tampines pool where i did 20 sets of 50m breast-stroke swim. Note: 20 sets and not 20 laps, difference lies in the rests in between laps.

So goodbye 2007 and hello 2008.

2007 Reflections, reasons and excuses - where did i go wrong

2007-12-27T18:29:00.006+08:00

Ok.. here goes... where did i go wrong.

Let's look back, way back to KL Marathon. I completed GE30km in January and must have slacked until early March. Then again, i did 2 half-marathon training runs and another 27km a week before the race. In addition, i failed to get PB for KL because of cramps circa 35km.

I did PD half Marathon early April and then did shorter distance trainings for the double half marathons at Kedah and Perak in early May. After that was ICT, where i must have slacked. Then again, i struggled at Bintan Triathlon 10km running leg because of the short, steep and undulating slopes and not because of lack of training.

I did slacked in June, where i truly suffered during the Penang Marathon. My longest run in preparation for that race was the World Harmony run. Triathlon fever set in as i started cycling.

I guess my slack period started in July, when i had to cover CD Manager's position for 3 months. Missed CBD runs as i had to be in Bintan mainly Tuesdays to Thursdays. At Bintan, i merely do gym work whenever coach Suhaimi was on duty. I managed to do 2 sprint triathlons though, Trifam sprint trial and PD Sprint Tri.

August was an equally slack month though i completed Adidas King of the Road and Desaru LD Tri cycle and sprint race. A rash attack and i had to miss AHM.

Handed over CD Manager position when James took over in Sept. Then again, didn't train when the fasting month sets in. Instead, Ed and I started eating more.

Renovation work started early October and the contractor i engaged didn't do Phua Chu Kang any justice. Checks on the house every evening left me too frustrated to train. This carried on until early December, when i finally moved in.

December came and i completed the SCSM. In addition to the medal and finisher tee, i also attained a personal worst marathon timing and a sore upper right quad muscle. Not sure if the injury is ITB but it sure does hurt everytime i lift up my leg. In addition, preparations for the wedding left me with much to think about. Its amazing how much things you need to think about for a wedding: politics, tradition etc, when most of these have no bearing on the marriage.

I think i'll just rest and ease my way back to fitness, gradually. I am reluctantly giving up MR Ultramarathon to rest. Let's see what 2008 brings!!

Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2007 - 2 Dec 2007

2007-12-27T18:29:00.005+08:00

Got up at 3am. Showered, applied plaster and lubricants to abrasion prone areas before putting on Mizuno white vest and Adidas black tights. Grabbed my pre-packed gears and left to meet Sassyrunner. JT swung by in a cab a few minutes later and we continued on to pick up Teelee before heading for Esplanade.

The race carnival was packed with runners by the time we arrived. Finished putting on my NB735 and USK before depositing the bag. We then left for the fountain near cetopath to meet the other SGRunners.

Balasing called and we arranged to meet at the starting point. There were tens of thousands of people at the startline, but with a handphone in hand, it was a matter of time before Balasing and I met. Andy was around too and he was delighted to see us. Andy, JT and I decided to run together.

The run started before i knew it. About 2 minutes passed before i ran over the startline, signalling the start of my race. The 3 of us ran at about 6.5mins/km pace and stopped for walk breaks after every 8 minutes. Many familiar faces passes us by, including Amanda from KL, who attempted her first full marathon. I took my first pack of powergel at the 8km waterpoint.

By the time we reached the 10km mark, i knew that our pace was too slow. So, i sped up and left Andy and JT behind, after JT waved me on. Running alone was much harder. I spotted some runners running at the pace i was comfortable with, and we had an agreement only runners understand, to pace each other.

I took my second pack of gel a short while after entering ECP, circa 18km. My legs were already hurting by now but i maintained the 8 by 2 routine. As i arrived at the 25km mark, i realised that i was about an hour off last year's timing. It didn't worry me a bit as i know that i was not prepared for this race.

Came across Tey from KL after leaving the Lagoon, heading towards the u-turn point near PA. Tey was with his darling, an SLR camera. Yen Erl, also from KL and attempting her first 42km, waved from the oncoming side, meaning she was about 2km ahead of me.

I finally reached the 27km u-turn point about 3:30 into the race. Back in January, i covered GE30km in 3:20. At the entrance to Bedok jetty, i saw JT and Andy at the opposite side. I notice a lady runner jogging very slowly, but constantly. I decided to follow her pace and did so until i reached 33km, where my feet really hurt. There was also a slight pain on my right upper quad, just off the groin. I took that as my breaking point, and decided to go even slower. I abandoned the 8 by 2 routine, and concentrated on just moving forward, at whatever pace i can.

Moving forward i did, and i reached Raffles Boulevard a few minutes after 5hrs. No more running now, not even a slight jog. My chest started to hurt but that was normal for me; it occurs whenever I attempt a marathon distance. My upper right quad still threatened to cramp up.

The last 3km seems like the longest part of the race. I walked most of it and stopped just outside Esplanade to call JT. She told me she still had some way to go and i should just finish the race. I did just that, slow jogged my way to the finish line, passing by IMD for a photo pose 2 hundred metres before the finish line.

My completion time was 6:10, which was 58 minutes longer that my PB at SCSM 06, and 25mins later than my last PW at Penang 07. Thinking i have a long time to reflect, i concentrated on not letting cramps set in. I remembered very well the really bad cramp i had after the Penang race. No way will i want another of that.

I got hold of an usher to remove the timing chip off my shoe laces and handed them in to collect my medal and finisher tee. It was then a search for Ed, who completed her 10km about an hour earlier. Poor girl had to wait under the sun for me.

A really bad race for me. Not surprising given the nearly inexistant training i put in.

Distance: 42.195km

Shoe: NB735

Summary for the period 18 Nov to 1 Dec

2007-12-27T18:29:00.001+08:00

Not the best preparation for a marathon, nowhere near.

18 Nov 2007: Demoralising run.

19 Nov - 1 Dec 2007: No runs, no training.

Demoralising Run - 18 Nov 07

2007-12-27T18:28:00.001+08:00

I requested for this run, back during the fasting month. Brokie agreed to organise one more after an earlier success... wait... every run has always been a success.... Ronnie PM-ed to remind me about it, saying if i cannot make it.. or planned not to make it... i should inform RSM now, then. But i was all geared to for the run, so i said yes. Thankfully i did.

Met Sassyrunner and KK who drove us to Changi Village. We were the first to arrive but the group got bigger as the minute passes by. I put on my NB 735 and Nathan Hydrobelt, having already worn the Adidas black tights and Mizuno white vest. Expecting a sunny morning, i had my Oakley shades on.

Brokie briefed the group just after 7. The route will take us from Changi Village to ECP via the Coastal Road and the park connector. I did the first km with Team Brokie and Hopling before the rest joined in. Knowing there was no way i can last the run with the group of fast runners, i decided to adopt the run/walk routine. Therefore, after 8 minutes of running, i started walking, to everyone's surprise.

The route was, as the title suggest, demoralising. I was rather familiar with the road, having attempted another such run a week before KL Marathon in March. In addition, i have cycled the route numerous times. I knew there will be a traffic light somewhere, and that will be about 5km from the startpoint. Gentle was around to take some pictures, then sped off in his cool looking bike.

I was alone for most of the route, less a portion near the end of Coastal where Ultraman was guiding one of his disciples in the art of running. I tried the new route connecting Coastal and ECP, which cut across the road leading to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. I saw Cobalt who was heading towards me, telling me the 10km point was a few metres ahead. Then came Doraemon_Red.

Soon i reached the NSRCC and decided my u-turn point will be at the Sailing Club's toilet, about 3km away. I reached that toilet, and replenished the water in my bottles. Ultraman arrived with his disciple, and we slow jogged the way back.

Most of the runners overtook me by the time i passed by the traffic light, signalling 5km to go. My feet has started to hurt and my 8min run/2min walk turned more into 3min run/7min walk. Anyhow, a cycling race was going on and there was a huge crowd near the Changi Ferry Terminal.

Cobalt and some other runners were waiting at the entrance to the terminal. DO handed me a bottle of ice cold water and asked if i wanted a car ride back. Car ride?? with only 2km to go?? No way... was he kidding or what?? Feet nearing numb and i still had the passion to complete the run. A good sign?? Well, at least a sign....

I walked jogged the way back and finally reached the ending point, where most of the runners were gathered, already warmed down. Someone offered me an ice-cold cup of 100-plus. I had my eyes on Doraemon_Red's Pocari jello. Delicious stuff.

Good run this was, though i must be worried about my ability to finish SCSM. Nah... i know for sure, with god's will, that finishing is not an issue. 2 weeks to SCSM.

Distance: 27km
Shoe: NB 735

Summary for the period of 3 - 17 Dec 07

2007-11-05T18:14:00.005+08:00

Ok..... lots of reasons why i have not been running.. but the fact remains... i have not been running as regularly as i should.

3 Nov 07: Tigger's Family Run
4 - 17 Nov 07: No runs, no training, unless you talking about patience.

Tigger's Family Run - 3 Nov 07

2007-11-05T18:14:00.003+08:00

Thanks to JT, i did cover some distance.

JT came round in a cab to pick me up circa 0430hrs and we then proceeded to meet the rest just outside People's Association at Kallang. Wearing Zoots Tri Tights, King of the Road Yellow Adidas vest, footpod, Nathan Hydrobelt and cap, i put on NB735 before swallowing 2 capsules of Amino Acid with some water.

Tigger explained the route before starting the run, leading the pack consisting of YankeeII, Burnz, Terence, Tao, Celebrity Bee, JT and i. At a steady pace, we did 5km and then took a pit-stop near the floating platform at the Esplanade. After a short toilet break, we continued on along Raffles Boulevard before turning into Shenton Way via the Esplanade Bridge.

We then turned left along Maxwell Rd and headed for Marina South, where we turned left passing the front of Country Club, then left and right before eventually passing by the seafood centre. It was then a left again to pass the Country Club before a final left and ending 10km at the Ferry Terminal.

After a short toilet break where i had my first pack of powergel, JT and i started our 8min run/2 min walk routine, backtracking our way back to the NTUC club at Maxwell Rd. A short rest for waterbreak later and we were off running again, passing by Shenton Way before going under the Esplanade bridge, heading for Kim Seng at 17km.

I've started to feel tired and my feet were sore by then. The 2 minutes walk breaks felt very heavenly. We passed by Clarke Quay then Robertson Quay before taking a short cut and crossing the bridge in front of Furama Riverside Hotel, trying not to exceed our planned 27km. On the way back, to our surprise, we saw Tigger and Bee waiting at Riverside Point. They were either very fast or they took a short cut. After getting a can of 100+ at 7-11, we continued our run/walk and met YankeeII and Terence in front of Victoria Concert Hall. Exchaning hellos, JT and i left for Esplanade, where we hoped our next walk break will be.

By then, JT's footpod already showed 25km. We then decided to continue for another 2km before calling it a day, and walk all the way back to the start point at Kallang. We eventually stopped just opposite Pebbles Bay and walked the rest of the route back. The rest of the guys eventually decided to return after a while. After shower, we headed for Seah Street for breakfast at Killiney Kopitiam. Thanks to JT and Tigger for this run, really needed it.

Distance: 27km

Shoe: NB735

Summary for the period 24 Oct - 2 Nov

2007-11-05T18:14:00.001+08:00

Slow build up for SCSM... too slow.

Wednesday, 24 Oct 2007: Wednesday run, Marina Promenade-Kim Seng-Marina Promenade.

25 Oct - 2 Nov 2007: No runs. Many excuses, mainly revolves around monitoring of renovation works at the new place.

Wed run - 24 Oct 07

2007-11-05T18:13:00.003+08:00

Been a long while since i ran from office on Wednesdays. Knowing that i was way behind in terms of training for SCSM, i forced myself to do this. 13km, Kallang river to Kim Seng and back. Felt very unfit, but glad i ran.

Distance: 13km

Shoes: NB 735

Summary for 9 Sep to 23 Oct 2007

2007-11-05T18:13:00.001+08:00

Fasting month covers most of this period. Then again, i ran during fasting month last year. Was just too lazy this time round.

9 - 10 Sep: No runs.
11 Sep: CBD Run.
12 Sep - 23 Oct: No runs.

Need i say more?

CBD Run - 11 Sep 07

2007-09-12T18:26:00.001+08:00

Been a while since i ran CBD. With the constructions at Marina South in full swing, i guess the group has a new route.

Left office and barely made it before the group leaves. Put on my new TNF Arnuva Boa 50, having already changed to my Mizuno blue vest and shorts.

Tigger briefed the group and then started the run. The 2 months or so i spent in Bintan hasn't done me any good in terms of running. Though i have completed some races during that period, i was afraid that i might have lost my running groove.

I followed the group though, trying my best to keep up with them. We headed along Tanjung Pagar Road and somehow made our to Spottiswood area before coming out along Jalan Bukit Merah. We then entered Kampong Baru Road and slowly ran towards the foot of Mount Faber.

Slowly, we ran up Mount Faber. My only other time running this way up was a long, long time ago, with NL. The lack of training showed as i struggled to make my way to the top. Nevertheless, i arrived at the summit where Tigger again briefed the group. We were to head halfway down towards Wishart Road but turn left to go up to the summit again just before we reach Wishart Road.

I was at the tail end of the group to ensure that i don't get influenced by their fast pace. Even going downhill was a problem for me as i struggled to stablelize my breathing. The way up was equally bad. The good thing was, i managed to run continuously to the summit. Though most of the other guys did 2 laps of the down-then-uphill, i was content with just one.

I made my way back to the startpoint along the same path i took to reach Mount Faber. It was a lonely run but i bumped into Vincent from Redhawk just outside the train station. After a short chat, i continued back to the start, meeting Tao along the way. We ran back the rest of the journey together.

Less than 3 months to SCSM and i'm totally unfit. With the high possibility of no training during the fasting month, i really wonder how am i to survive the Real Run, Powerman and SCSM.

Distance: 12km
Shoe: TNF Arnuva Boa 50.

Summary for the week of 2 - 8 Sept 07

2007-09-10T18:08:00.001+08:00

Mission accomplished. Whole week in Bintan. Ran a bit.

Sunday, 2 Sept: Missed Yaakob's wedding, had to clear some work. No runs.
Monday, 3 Sept: In Bintan. A disastrous rehearsal for the Bursary event left me with a sleepless night.
Tuesday, 4 Sept: The big day. Event completed without major screw ups. To celebrate its completion, i did a 5.6km run from Rhino statues to Fire Station along the East-West Road with BT. Then did a light workout at FSD Gym with SK.
Wednesday, 5 Sept: Big load off my shoulder. Had to remain in Bintan due to the distribution of the remaining bursaries at the village schools. Did a 5km run in the evening, from junction of Logistics towards the East West Road, a right turn on East West heading towards Bintan Lagoon, then a right turn on the junction of road towards Pasar Oleh-Oleh before a left turn at the junction of SD Tunas Bangsa-Wisma BRC, ending the run in front of the soccer field.
Thursday, 6 Sept: Whole day out at the village. Had an hour of foot reflexology at RM's new shop at POO in the evening.
Friday, 7 Sept: Back in Singapore after another long day giving out bursaries at the village schools. Ops Covering CD accomplished. Hey Boss, what's my next challenge?
Saturday, 8 Sept: Back in Bintan for a one day site visit with a Mr JTSL from CGS. OCIPs coming up.

Felt so relieved. JN has fully taken over CD. I'm back to being the CCC.

Summary for the week of 26 Aug - 1 Sept 07

2007-09-10T18:07:00.001+08:00

Feeling the heat.

Sunday, 26 Aug: Already decided against going for AHM due to rashes, so rested at home.
Monday, 27 Aug: No runs.
Tuesday, 28 Aug: In Bintan. Had a gym workout at FSD after work.
Wednesday, 29 Aug: Still in Bintan, still suffering from rashes. Gathering at LBV after GM meeting. Think i got bitten by sandflies.
Thursday, 30 Aug: Came back to Singapore late. No training.
Friday, 31 Aug: In Singapore, but lots of things to clear. No runs.
Saturday, 1 Sept: Tired, rested. No training. Watched Man Utd beat Roy Keane's Sunderland 1-0. Wonder what SAF sees in Anderson and Tevez.

Another slack week.

Summary for the week of 19-25 August 07

2007-09-10T18:04:00.000+08:00

The high of completing a triathlon.

Sunday, 19 Aug: Sprint race at Desaru LD Triathlon.
Monday, 20 Aug: Went to Bintan for a site visit on boat with NG and OBS/RJC.
Tuesday, 21 Aug: Miscomm with Ed meant i had Tuesday free. Too bad didn't have my running gears with me or i could have joined the guys at CBD.
Wednesday, 22 Aug: Went to Bintan, no runs, no gym.
Thursday, 23 Aug: Still in Bintan, no training.
Friday, 24 Aug: Left for day shopping trip in KL. Took morning bus, reached KL just after 1. Went straight to Masjid India district. Ed shopped while i provided portering services. Left for the Curve and Ikano after that, where we had Meatball at Ikea. Took the night train back.
Saturday, 25 Aug: Out of nowhere, rashes developed on my hands and back. Decided against running in SAFRA AHM.

Getting tired of traveling.

Desaru Pengerang Long Distance Triathlon - Sprint Race 19 Aug 07

2007-08-23T22:29:00.003+08:00

I was in many minds about this event. Firstly, after seeing the high waves before the LD race, i was so unsure if i could survive the swim leg. That thought was further compounded by the likening of the LD swim to that of "being in a washing machine" by someone who completed the LD race. Secondly, i was not sure if my sore bum and leg due to the LD race bike ride would recover on time.

Anyhow, i got up at 6am, trying to find every excuse known to man not to take part in the race. However, i showered and got all prepared for the race nonetheless, putting on my Zoots Tri Tights and Mizuno Orange vest. After having a bar of PowerBar Triple Threat for breakfast, i packed my stuff and left for the transition area.

At transition, i arranged my stuff according to the bike + run sequence. Among the items in the transition basket were: my Ironman socks, NB735, Adidas shades, Mizuno Orange vest, Bell Black helmet, Nike White cap, Yellow PowerBar towel from PD Tri, 1 pack of powergel, 1 powergel waterbottle filled with tap water to rinse my feet with after the swim and a bottle of 100+.

I did my customary warm ups and stretches and headed for the beach with Sassyrunner. The sea didn't look as intimidating as the day before. I put on my swim cap and googles and went into the sea for more warming ups. That didn't do any good to my confidence as the high waves made me more afraid. I started to have serious doubts about competing. I headed back to shore, thinking about important things like work, house and Ed. Don't think i want to risk my life just for a race.

Before i could think further, the MC called out all competitors to assemble and gave a short briefing. I didn't hear any of his briefing as the worries i was having blocked my hearing. Next thing i knew, the horn sounded signaling the start of the race.

Being at the back of the pack, i walked slowly into the water. My heart was beating very quickly. Soon the water reached my neck and i had to start swimming. Most of the swimmers were already at least 10m ahead by then. I swam. The wave was still high. I continued swimming, ensuring that i kept near the lifeguards on duty.

After a while, i called out to the lifeguard on the canoe. I asked if he could follow me and he replied "I'm the sweeper, i only follow the last swimmer'. I then replied "I'm the last swimmer" but to my surprise he replied "No, there are others behind you". I turned back, seeing some others struggling like me. The "sweeper" came near us though, and i stroked my way slowly towards the orange buoy.

Next i realised i reached the orange buoy and needed to turn right to swim parallel to the beach. Surprisingly, this part of the swim was a piece of cake. Before long, i reached the next buoy and needed to turn right towards shore.

The swim back to shore was so much harder. Each time the wave run me over, i glided forward but then felt the current pulling me back. After a while, i decided i couldn't get to shore. I was still a distance away from the tide mark at the beach when i decided to give up, calling for the lifeguard again, telling him that i can't go in. He approached and told me to put my feet down. Wah laa, i could feel the sand on my feet.

Walking until the water was at my knees, i started running to the transition area. The crowd which was still at the beach turned out to be my supporters; Littletigger, Balasing, cFred, Eunice, Sotong and wife etc. Armed with cameras, they took many photos of me running towards the transition area. 500m swim completed.

Got to my bike, put on my socks, shoes, vest, helmet, shades and drank the 100+ before leaving for the mounting line. Jerry from Trifam cheered me on as i left for my ride. Heading out, i had to turn right towards the gantry before left to the side road with the steep slope. Then is a right towards the second roundabout for a loop and left at the first roundabout back to the startline.

My legs were aching from the swim and my butt from the LD ride. I overtook a lady on a mountain bike who screamed at me to wait for her. I looked forward and reached the side road, where a group of Sikh seemed to be having some sort of activity. They cheered me on as i passed. I dismounted at the bottom of the steep slope and pushed the bike to the top.

At the main road, i saw a couple up ahead. This couple was just ahead of me during the swim. I tried catching up to them or at least maintain the distance. I overtook a couple of father and daughter/son team after the last roundabout before reaching the transition area. IMD and Sassyrunner had already finished their race, and stood by the side of the road cheering me on. 18km ride completed.

I hooked my bike at the transition, removed my helmet, put on the cap and took a sip of water before running out. Suddenly, the ballon gantry/banner fell towards me. It missed me but blocked my path. Without thinking too hard, i rolled on my stomach over the fallen gantry and continued my run, to the laughter of onlookers. Cfred took some pictures of me heading out (later on i found out that he accidentally ran into the cable that kept the gantry up, causing the gantry to fall towards me) while IMD joined me for the run, telling me that the run is less than the indicated 3km.

I overtook a competitor before the u-turn. Feeling a slight pain on my back, i slowed down, allowing the competitor to overtook me back. Seeing my friends near the finishing line cheering me on, i sped up and finished the race in 1:24.

A weekend well spent. I have done 2 half marathons, 1 a day apart. Now, i can add this LD relay bike ride and individual sprint, also a day apart, to the list.

Swam: 0.5m
Cycled: 18km
Ran: 2km
Time: 1:24

Summary for week of 12-18 Aug 07

2007-08-23T22:29:00.001+08:00

Was in Singapore for only 2.5 days.

Sunday, 12 Aug: Got up late so missed the Trifam Brick Training.
Monday, 13 Aug: No runs.
Tuesday, 14 Aug: In Bintan, no runs.
Wednesday, 15 Aug: Still in Bintan, did a short gym workout at FSD.
Thursday, 16 Aug: Still in Bintan, no runs.
Friday, 17 Aug: Indonesian Independence Day. Did Bintan - Tanah Merah - Home - Changi - Tanjung Belungkor in 3hrs.
Saturday, 18 Aug: Desaru Pengerang Long Distance International Triathlon. I did the cycling leg.

90km of cycling, my longest ever.

Desaru Pengerang Long Distance Triathlon - The Long Distance Race 18 Aug 07

2007-08-23T22:05:00.000+08:00

Got up at 7, showered and had breakfast at the hotel's lobby. The hotel was really dirty and rundown i wonder how they fill their rooms on normal days. Had a plate filled with scrambled eggs, 2 slices of bread, a scoop of baked beans and sausages, a cup of coffee and a glass of orange juice.

I then headed down to the race expo and bought myself a saddle pouch and a handpump from the Polygon booth, knocking me back S$40. Went back to room and got ready for the race.

Put on my Elan blue bike-tights, Mizuno blue vest, NB735 and carried my Scott AFD and other stuffs to the transition area. Hooked the bike and helmet (using Ed's black Bell instead of my usual red Specialised), i arranged my Adidas shades and gloves on the dropbar. I planned to do a full transition so took off NB735 and socks before going for body marking. Our relay race number was 902.

Followed everyone to the beach for the swim start. The sea looked very rough. I started having second thoughts about competing in the sprint race the next day. Decided i had scared myself enough, i left for the hotel lobby for a pee-break.

The race started and i returned to the transition area, where many Mat-Bikerz were all dressed up, waiting for their swimmers to pass them the baton (in this case, a hairband). I then decided to abandon the full transition idea and put on NB735, black Bell, Adidas shades and gloves and waited for Eunice at near the transition entrance.

Eunice appeared right on the hour mark. Taking the hairband from her, i ran to Scott AFD and headed out to the mounting line. The route takes me left out of the hotel before U-turning about 2km away. Then will be straight out to the gantry before left to the mainroad, u-turning at the 12.5km mark. About 8-9 km before u-turning at the round-a-bout and the rest of the trip will be riding back to the startline, completing a 30km loop. LD race required us to do 3 of those loops.

I started slow, trying not to burn out prematurely. The beautiful weather turned into a slight storm by the time i got to the mainroad. Crosswinds nearly pushed me off the road a number of times. The undulating terrain surely posed a challenge to all. My chain gave way, due to frequent meddling with the crank, somewhere along the 20km mark. I continued on with Tigger overtaking before i completed my first loop in 1:15. Slow that i was, i counted at least 13 slopes per loop.

Second loop was uneventful, other than a rider in black scolding me for blocking his way. Swore i didn't hear him calling out. My chain gave way twice during this loop. Anyhow, someone passed me a banana, already halfway peeled, and i did a circus act balancing the bike to move forward while munching on the banana, at the start of the third lap.

Tri-Jon told me before the race that there is a steep slope just before we hit the main road. I went real slow up that slope on the first 2 laps, but for the third, i decided to dismount and push the bike up that slope. Many riders behind me did the same, including this other relay "brudder", who i paced throughout the last lap. Didn't catch his name, though we constantly overtook each other, waving as we passed.

Turning back at the last roundabout, i must have cycled for about 2km before seeing IMD, Sotong, Balasing and Roonz. At the last 3km, i started to feel tightness on my left thigh. The road was rather empty by then and i could cycle for a distance without meeting anyone on either direction. Afraid that i could get cramps, bearing in mind there wasn't anybody else nearby that could hear even if i screamed, i decided to slow down everytime i feel the cramp nearing. Thankfully, i hit the intersection where i needed to turn left towards the startline.

Within a few minutes, i was already back at the transition, where Fennel was all geared up to start her running leg. I passed her the hairband, and she started running. My cycling time was 3:54, well within my aim of 4hrs. I then led my bike to my transition area, hooked it up, and continued walking, so afraid that the cramp will set in. I went up to the Milo van, and took 2 cups. Milo never tasted so good before.

I then joined Charmane and Eunice at the Bike Boutique tent, to give out ice to the runners and tucking some inside my tights. Fennel, being the good runner that she is, finished her race within 1:50.

Excellent race this event, though i must say again that unless i do the main event, i will always feel like a second class citizen. Therefore, i will do the individual LD event next year, but first, the sprint race the next day.

Cycling Distance: 90km
Cycling Time: 3:54

Ferry hopping: Bintan - Singapore - Desaru

2007-08-23T21:31:00.000+08:00

Wanted to take leave but 17 August is the Independence Day for Indonesia and as a "PR" there, it was compulsory for all else like me to be present for the Big Day observation ceremony. Rest of the guys were probably on their way to Desaru while i sat watching the red and white flag being raised.

Anyhow, having obtained permission to skip the night activities, i left for Singapore while the sun was still high. Cabbie at TMFT tried to con me by informing that a surcharge will be imposed on the trip. I told him to cut the crap, having taken taxis for 5 years from the same spot without having to pay any surcharge. So i took the next cab, who also tried to con me with the same surcharge crap at first but changed his mind once i started speaking Singlish.

I was home half an hour later and immediately gathered my pre-packed stuff and bike. Got my father to send me to Changi Ferry Terminal via his cab (no issue of surcharge this time), stopped by Changi Village to ta pao some food. Its amazing how lacking in creativity the hawkers are; 1 sells Nasi Lemak, everyone sells Nasi Lemak. One sells Nasi Ayam Penyet, everyone sells Nasi Ayam Penyet. I got myself 1 pack of Nasi Lemak with extra chicken wing, 2 fried popiah swimming with chilli sauce and 2 goreng pisang.

Reached Changi Ferry Terminal and immediately checked in. While waiting for ICA to start working, i had my feast. Cleared immigration and was on the ferry within minutes. Met some guys who went to PD with me a few weeks ago but can't remember their names.

Ferry left for a 30mins journey to Tanjung Belungkor, passing by the unnatural-looking Pulau Tekong most of the way. On arrival, cleared immigration and surrendered my bike to a transport coordinator from Golden Beach Resort. He then ushered me to a Pajero and after loading 3 other persons with me in the post-20 year old jeep, the driver started heading towards Desaru.

My last and probably only previous trip to Desaru was with SL and BT, on a study trip at the nearby fruit plantation a few years ago. Other than the fruits and the dirty hotel, i couldn't remember anything else about Desaru.

We stopped by a Petronas station to get supplies before continuing to the hotel. My worst fears came true when i saw where we were stopping; that same dirty hotel. Called IMD and Balasing and was told to head up to the briefing room. Uncle Chan was giving his briefing about the LD race. He must have been a comedian in his younger days as the crowd were laughing throughout the briefing.

Met Eunice, my team swimmer, and we headed towards the registration booth. I registered my team name as Euhan, back when i thought I could do the bike and run legs. Decided against it and Fennel asked if she could join as runner. So i guess my team name will be Euhanli (EUnice-RaiHAN-AiLI). Also registered for the sprint before remembering that i had totally forgotten about my bike. In panic, i saw my bike and thought that the Bike Boutique stall was the bike collection centre. Grace from TBB went into blur mode when i told her that i wanted to collect my bike. IMD clarified the situation.

We then went back to hotel, then to dinner where i had a special beef burger (note: not beef burger special, difference lies in the kind of egg served) and lots of mosquito bites. Went back to hotel and prepared for my 2 races.

Fennel arrived later on. By then,i was on my way to dreamland. Next day is race day.

Summary for week of 5-11 Aug 07

2007-08-12T15:06:00.000+08:00

Started with a long run, ending with a long ride.

Sunday, 5 Aug: Adidas King of the Road.
Monday, 6 Aug: Collected bike from Chapter2cycle after returning from Bintan. Rode the 5km back home.
Tuesday, 7 Aug: CBD Run.
Wednesday, 8 Aug: Day trip to Bintan. Comtemplated on going to KL for the weekend's PJ Half Marathon.
Thursday, 9 Aug: Happy National Day Singapore. Got up late for the bike ride so slacked all day. Called Hotel Noble and was told that they are full for the weekend. So PJ plan off.
Friday, 10 Aug: Took leave to slack.
Saturday, 11 Aug: With Desaru Long Distance Triathlon looming, i decided to join Teelee for a morning ride. Had goreng pisang at JB after that.

Good training week. 1 week to go to Desaru LD Tri.

Saturday morning ride - 11 Aug 07

2007-08-12T15:03:00.000+08:00

I've been itching for a ride ever since i collected my bike from Chapter2cycle. Ned did a great job in servicing the bike, changing the not-comfortable-at-all bull-horn and aerobar handle to just plain ol' dropbar with Shimano 105 STI set courtesy of Hedgehog. I also fixed Cateye Astrale 8 Cyclometer with Cadence. After spending National Day and Friday slacking, I was relieved when Saturday morning came.

Got up at 530am, showered and put on my Elan Blue bike tights, Adidas Adistar Orange tee, socks and NB105. I carried my bike down and put on my helmet, cycled out to the bus stop at St 51 to meet Teelee. Managed to buy a bottle of H2O before starting the ride at 0640hrs.

The plan was to cycle 60km, doing a Hougang to Mandai and back. We cycled at a steady 25-27km/hr until we reached Thomson Rd/Casuarina via Ang Mo Kio Ave 5. Turning right to Thomson Rd, we managed to catch sight of Freddie, Dreamrunner, DO and Cheow running along the Animiles route. The undulating hills of Thomson Road varied my speed from as slow as 20km/hr on the climb to excess of 40km/hr during the descend. We arrived at the junction of Mandai Rd with Astrale 8 showing the distance covered being 8km.

We then cycled past the entrance to Mandai Executive Golf Course and headed for Upper Pierce Reservoir. Then was the downhill road towards the Zoo, where i could have reached a max of 50km/hr had it not been for a truck driving too close for comfort. We arrive at the KJE Mandai flyover and cycled past the Police Tactical Training Camp. It was then a right turn into Woodlands Road.

The heavy vehicles plying the route after that made me pay more attention to the traffic than the road names. Next i realised was passing by Sungei Buloh Mangrove area. Teelee then mentioned to me about going via an alternative route, which he was not sure of. I was enjoying the ride so i agreed.

We cycled on and came towards Neo Tiew area, where my chain came off the crank for the first time. Luckily there wasn't any breaks and i was back riding after realigning the chain. We cycled the curvy Neo Tiew area, passing by farms after farms. After a while, i saw a sign displaying Sungei Kadut camp. I then realised that i am at Lim Chu Kang area. We passed by the Armour Camp, Cemetaries, Civil Defence Academy and NTU before entering Jurong West neighbourhood.

Taking a bus from Jurong West back to Hougang would normally take me about 1.5hrs. Cycling was a different story. As Teelee was unsure of the route, i took the lead, cycling along Corporation Rd until we reached the flyover separating Jurong West, East and Bukit Batok. We entered Bukit Batok, passing by Millenia Institute and Bukit Batok Interchange/MRT. It was then a left turn further on and we made a pit stop at a Shell station at Old Jurong Road.

I loaded my bottle cage with a new bottle of H2O and also bought a can of Red Bull, as well as a bottle of mineral water to take my powergel with. We continued our ride, heading towards Toh Yi area and then down Jalan Anak Bukit before turning left to Dunearn Rd. I had a pee-break and then continued cycling until we reached the flyover of Adam Rd Food Centre where we turned left towards Lornie Rd.

Lornie Rd was busy with traffic. I was delighted when we reached Macritchie Reservoir/Andrew Rd area. We continued on along Thomson Rd and then opted for the gradual incline at Old Thomson Rd.

By then, we had covered 60km. As i had an appointment at 1130hrs, we decided to call it a day, cycling along Yio Chu Kang Rd towards Hougang. Teelee continued on to his house at Ave 1 while i did an extra loop of my block to make the distance 70km.

Great ride on a lovely morning. Certainly beats the dull and demoralising Coastal Road.

Distance: 70km

CBD Run - 7 Aug 07

2007-08-09T23:00:00.000+08:00

My first CBD run, after a long while. Left office wearing my Mizuno white vest and black shorts. Arrived at the startpoint, seeing Tiwazz, Tigger, Tao, ST, YankeeII, Sxuanjing. Jamesoh and Charlotte joined later. Put on my NB735, with USK-filled Nathan pouch on my waist.

After a short briefing on the route, Tigger started the run. The plan was to run along Shenton Way towards Esplanade before turning right to Marina Promenade. Upon reaching the bridge above Marina Bay, we are to do 4 sets of 1km intervals at our own pace, ending at the bridge above Kallang River.

Charlotte was leading most of the way in the first part and we were joined halfway by aerosolcan. I started fast, trying to warm up and perspire as much as possible. We took a 2 minute breather before starting the first set. I started fast but soon tire out, finishing in 5:05. Subsequent timings are as follows:

Set 1: 5:05
Set 2: 5:25
Set 3: 5:45
Set 4: 5:35

We then walked and jogged back to the startpoint. May have been a work out too much for my leg still recovering from King of the Road, but feeling the amount of perspiration on my body after the run made me feel good. I still feel unfit though.

Distance: 8km
Shoe: NB735

Adidas King of the Road, Bandar Sunway - 5 Aug 07

2007-08-09T17:46:00.000+08:00

Got up at 0500hrs and showered. Applied Neat Cream to abrasion prone areas and plastered nipples. Put on my SGRunners vest, Adidas black shorts, Adidas cap, Nathan pouch with USK , Creative MP3 player and a pack of powergel, socks and NB735 before heading out to Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman to wait for Yeehua and her super red Kenari. Had a pack of Triple Threat Powerbar and 2 capsules of Amino Acid while waiting.

Yeehua arrived and drove us to Bandar Sunway, which was already packed with runners by the time we arrived. Met Runwitme at the overhead bridge on my way to the reporting line. Entered the reporting area after a pee break and was issued with a pink ribbon. Did my routine stretches and warm ups and saw Kimberley Yap and other Malaysian runners.

Dr Sammy Velu flagged off the race just after the area was blackened out courtesy of a power failure. With Creative playing Robbie Williams' "Let me entertain you", I did a slow jog and looked out for a nice place to pee. I stopped at the side of the road after coming out of the underpass for a pee-break. Continuing the run, i saw Runwitme again and picked up speed to get level with Divey, who was wearing a Safra running vest. I saw Karen, the powerbar girl, and chatted for a while.

The first drink station appeared after 5km and i took the chance to replenish lost fluid. It was a surprise that the drink station served 100plus, though semi-chilled. I continued my run and before long, saw the first group of elites on the opposite side of the highway. Soon, more familiar looking runners appeared, consisting of Bose, then Charles, then Yeehua, then Ronnie, then Renohtaram and finally Karen.

I reached the u-turn point soon after, and approached the drink station. I was surprised not to find plain ice-water as i planned to take my pack of powergel then. So i grabbed 2 cups of 100plus and continued the run, seeing Amanda, Runwitme and Ham approaching from the opposite side.

The second 10km was rather boring and i felt very tired. Feet weren't hurting, just that i felt lazy. I began to wonder if i have lost the ability to run long distance, not forgetting the fact that my last run beyond 5km was Penang Bridge Marathon, more than a month ago. I shoo-ed away the negative thought, and decided to enjoy the music on my Creative, which was playing U2's "It's a beautiful day".

Divey caught up with me and i decided to follow her pace. After a while she told me not to wait for her, and i told her that i thought she was waiting for me. We continued running together for a while until we reached the last waterpoint, about 3km to the finishing line. The time was already 2:00 by now, and i knew that i will not be breaking any records.

Elvis was singing "A little less conversation" as i approached the last km, leading to the underground tunnel. Saw some photographers including Tey at the end of the tunnel. The upslope and final stretch towards the finishing line seemed a daunting distance but Holly Valance was telling me "It's all in the mind". I decided to increase my pace and finished the run in 2:11.

The official at the finishing line did not hand out a medal to me so i guessed they ran out of it. Had a few gulps of Milo and 100plus while looking for Ronnie, Charles, Yeehua and Ham. Saw them before seeing Amanda heading towards the aid station. I caught up and was told that she fell at the start, getting scratches at the knee and palm, and yet she completed the run. Amazing. We left a while later.

Honestly, i felt unfit and unprepared. This time a year ago, i was averaging 35-40km a week. This year, i can barely get half of that. Have i bitten more than i could chew? Have i become complacent? Perhaps i have. I have long knew that i just don't have the natural fitness and thus need to train hard. Well at least i acknowledge that, and hopefully that will spur me to rectify things.

Distance: 21.1km (on paper)
Shoe: NB735
Time: 2:11

Summary for week of 29 July to 4 Aug 07

2007-08-09T17:20:00.000+08:00

Running season's here again!!

Sunday, 29 July: Volunteered at OSIM Singapore Triathlon Olympic Distance races. Was offered a role at VIP tents but requested for transition area marshall instead. Located at the overhead bridge where athletes crosses over from swimming to biking and from biking to running, i was at the thick of the action. Good point as the transition area was a mud bath. Pity those who take great pain to clean their bikes. Together with my buddy Iceman, also an SGRunner, we directed athletes up and down the bridge. Must say that less the relay cyclists, everyone of the competitors passed by my point. The elite triathletes were inspirational, while it was great to see others like Jerry, Peter, Jon, Alan etc from Trifam, as well as SGRunners like IMD, Sotong, Roonz, Littletigger etc.
Monday, 30 July: Busy at work, no training.
Tuesday, 31 July: At Bintan, plan for gym workout was shelved due to a departmental celebration.
Wednesday, 1 Aug: Did shoulders, back, abs and legs workout at FSD gym before running a 2.4km just for the heck of it. Beginning to love the NB735; the cushioning's really soft.
Thursday, 2 Aug: New Community Development Manager reported for work. Did some orientation for him before i returned to Singapore. Got home and cycled to Chapter 2 Cycle at Ang Mo Kio, where Ned recommended some work my bike needed to be put through. In detail, i will be changing to Richey dropbar with STI set donated by Hedgehog, change a new pair of brakepads for rear brakes and service the whole bike. Hope my bike will look normal after this. Had the pleasure of meeting Mr Ironman himself, Dr Siong from SGrunners. After handing over the bike to Ned, i did a 5km run back home before meeting Ed for late dinner.
Friday, 3 Aug: Cleared paperwork in preparation for ISO renewal audit. Packed for KL trip.
Saturday 4 Aug: Together with Ronnie, Ham and Charles, left for KL for the Adidas King of the Road. Collected my racebibs from Runwitme at Sunway Pyramid before having lunch at Tony Romas. Must admit that the Bountiful Beef Ribs were uber delicious. Nuah-ed at KLCC after checking in at Hotel Noble and had Maggi Goreng for dinner before retiring just before 2200hrs.

August is going to be a busy month.

Summary for week of 22 - 29 Jul

2007-07-30T18:02:00.003+08:00

More work!!

Sunday, 22 Jul: Still at PD. Cheered and took pictures during the Olympic Distance race. Saw many familiar faces including, Teelee, Sassyrunner, cfred, Runner's High aka Azwar, Kimberley Yap, Jerry, Alan etc.
Monday, 23 Jul: Back at work. Heel hurt from the race at PD. Probably due to the shoe.
Tuesday, 24 Jul: In Bintan, did some gym work at the fire station.
Wednesday, 25 Jul: Heel still hurt, so watched the soccer match between Admin and EHD. EHD won 2-1 by the way.
Thursday, 26 Jul: Returned to SG, too tired to run.
Friday, 27 Jul: Putting my Real Run Club card courtesy of KINs to good use, bought a new pair of shoes in NB735, a lightweight cushioning trainer, at a lot of discount.
Saturday, 28 Jul: Did a 20km bike and 5km run at ECP, wearing my new NB735. Felt good. The cushioning is soft and the shoe is light. Best of all, it is very cheap compared to other shoes i purchased in the past year.

1 week to Adidas King of the Road. Better start running far soon, or i'll suffer again.

Summary for week of 15 - 21 July

2007-07-30T18:02:00.001+08:00

The week i became a tri-athlete, officially.

Sunday, 15 Jul: Wasn't feeling well, so skipped the run at Toa Payoh stadium.
Monday, 16 Jul: No runs. Had family dinner, father's belated birthday.
Tuesday, 17 Jul: No runs. Too much work in Bintan.
Wednesday, 18 Jul: No runs. Still in Bintan.
Thursday, 19 Jul: No runs, still in Bintan.
Friday, 20 Jul: No runs. Returned to SG, unpacked and repacked for PD Tri.
Saturday, 21 Jul: PD Triathlon.

Another dream fulfilled, another chapter completed.

Port Dickson International Sprint Triathlon - 21 Jul

2007-07-30T18:01:00.002+08:00

My first Triathlon race. I just decided to do this as soon as i bought my bike. I was really panicking in getting transportation and accommodation sorted out. It was even more panicking for me when our coach arrived at PD just after 12, meaning less than 2 hour before race begin.

Having changed into my Zoots Tritights, i headed for the bike check in/transition area and arranged my stuff. It was very tricky as the weather was not very accommodating to us. It started with light drizzle, then got heavier. I arranged my stuff in the basket provided and covered them with a tiny plastic bag which somehow i could find.

I then made my way to the swim start and realised that i have not done my body marking. So i had to run back to the transition area. The markers had a hard time writing my number and gave up after a short while. They told me to shout out my number when i run past the recorders. I then ran back to the start point.

Not the compose pre-race preparation i expected. I managed to catch a bit of the final race briefing before the YB blew the horn, signaling the start of the sprint race. I let everyone past before entering the water, walking until the sea water reaches my chest level. There were many behind me, all, like me, lacked confidence in swimming.

I stuck close to the swim rope and was glad to reach the first buoy. I think i kicked someone, and turned around to apologise. Slowly, i stroked my way to the u-turn point and saw just a few swim caps ahead of me. The rest must have completed their swim. With confidence building in me, i completed my swim but realised that i did not start my stop watch. Hopeless me.

I did a light jog to the transition area. reaching my bike, i struggled to put on my wet socks and Adidas Adistar. The last time i wore this shoe was during run session at Toa Payoh, where i fainted. I hope it brings me better luck this time round. Anyhow, no need for shades this time, and i put on my helmet before pushing my bike to the mounting line.

No cyclometer so no idea how fast or far i've cycled. I was blocked by a car just before heading into the highway. I saw many cyclists, but all on the opposite side. Alone, i cycled to the u-turn point. On the way back, a marshall on a motorbike decided to keep me company. We managed to strike up some conversation, and he told me that i was cycling at 40km/hr at one of the sections. I was a cyclist ahead of me and decided to overtake. The cyclist turned out to be Fennel and we finished the biking leg together.

Hooking up the bike, i took off my helmet and started to run. My legs were heavy now, but i tried to maintain the cadence i used for the biking leg. After a while, Fennel and me overtook some participants before i told her to leave me behind. I managed to get into my running groove just before the u-turn point. Then on i increased pace with every steps and finished the race in 1:29.

Collected my race medal and a nice looking powerbar towel. Had some Milo-peng before heading back to the race expo, deliberating on joining the Olympic Distance the next day.

Good race, i felt like the king of the world having finished the swim leg.

The way up to Port Dickson

2007-07-30T18:01:00.001+08:00

My second trip to Port Dickson in 3 months. Could still remember running in the storm during PD Half and driving the way back on NL's car. Anyhow, got up very early and headed for Lavender Bus Terminal, courtesy of my dad, to meet Tri_Jon and gang. I barely know anyone from my bus and was happy to see Fennel, SV and Divey. Unfortunately, they will be going on a different bus.I made myself useful helping Peter and Jon load up the bikes on the bus. It is really innovative how they use the seats as a bike stand. Forgot to take pictures though. Meet new friends in Whelan, who will also be my roomie at Selesa Hotel, Amy, Kim, Peter, Colin etc.

Bus left for Tuas slightly after 7. Cleared immigration at both ends and i started to sleep. The journey took longer than i expected, even TIC the rest and toilet breaks. Anyhow, we reached PD just after 12, meaning less than 2 hours to report, collect race kit, get myself ready for the race, check in bike etc. Wonder how the race will be. Well, guess i will know in 2 hrs time.

Summary for week of 8 to 14 July

2007-07-30T18:00:00.001+08:00

Too much travels...

Sunday, 8 Jul: Trifam Sprint Trial. Cycled home with Joe aka Beckham after the race, via Still Road, Hougang Ave 3, 2, 10 and 8. Rushed to attend NL's sister's wedding, which reminded me that i need to finalise mine soon.
Monday, 9 Jul: Meeting at work. Too much to clear.
Tuesday, 10 Jul: In Bintan, had to fight fire so no time for training.
Wednesday, 11 Jul: Returned to SG late, too late for training.
Thursday, 12 Jul: Got up very early to catch the first Garuda flight to Jakarta. Upon arrival, i heard that the EU sent out an advisory against traveling via Indonesian flights due to safety issues. Busy day with meetings.
Friday, 13 Jul: Returned to SG. All these traveling made me sick, literally. I was down with fever.
Saturday, 14 Jul: Overslept when i should have been up at 430am to join Trifam riders for morning ride.

No exercise, just travels.

TRIFAM Sprint Race - 8 July 2007

2007-07-09T19:31:00.000+08:00

I only joined Trifam a week ago and Jerry suggested i take up this challenge, to provide me with experience in swimming in the sea. So, as always, i registered first and then worked out what to do and how to do. I had never swam 750m out at sea and never cycled competitively.

Got up at 5am, showered and packed my stuff. Put on my newly acquired Zoot Mesh Trifit tights and Mizuno white/orange vest. Applied some lubricants at abrasion prone areas before leaving my dad's house at 6am. Thanks to my dad who then drove me to my new apartment to collect my bike, before dropping me off at the race venue, NSRCC Sea Sports Centre.

When i arrived, only the fellas from the Bike Boutique was around. As the sun rose, more people arrived, Gentle, Paul and Jerry. The only person from Trifam i knew was Gentle, though i also knew that Gugugaga and Hedgehog will also take part. I made myself useful by helping the committee set up for the race. When my help was no longer required, i snapped some photos before Joseph the CSM called for everyone to register for the race.

I registered, paid and was given number 26, and went for body marking where number 26 was written with thick black marker pen on my 2 arms and thighs. I then followed the crowd to place my bike and stuffs at the bike stand.

Having done all the necessary, i waited for CSM Joseph to give a briefing and collected a bright colored swim cap for easy identification. Just before 0800hrs, we were all ushered to the startpoint, a ramp to the sea. I stayed at the back of the group, so as not to get kicked and not to get in the way of the fast swimmers.

The horn blew, and off we went. I had no confidence in finishing the swim leg and so did a slow start. However, that may not be slow enough as i got nervous upon approaching the first buoy. I realised that i might drown if i don't quit. Luckily, the safety swimmer was just nearby and he helped to calm me down. I rested by holding on to the buoy for about 10 seconds before continuing on. My race then was from one buoy to another. I rested for another 10 seconds upon reaching the 2nd buoy, with the safety swimmer encouraging me continuously. From then onwards, i managed to gather my courage and continued my slow breaststrokes, maintaining momentum and regular breathing. Before i knew it, i reached the u-turn point.

I focussed on the end point on the swim back, and slowly stroked my way to it. I realised that every other swimmer had finished their swim but continued on, knowing that this is not my race with them, but myself. My goggles were already fogging up by now and i realised that i've been focusing on the wrong point all the while when the safety swimmer told me to turn a little to the left. I then powered on and finished the swim, to the applause and good wishes of Joseph and Gentle. (I think they were worried that i may drown... hell, i was worried that i might drown). Someone then opened the tap and hosed me down with fresh water before i jogged towards the transition area.

Some fellas helped me put on my gear and i ran out with the bike for the biking leg. I cycled slowly towards Coastal Road, and went faster as i got under the canopies. There were many cyclists at coastal, but none of them were my fellow competitors. One appeared soon after, but on the opposite side of the road. I experimented with the gears and aerobars before reaching the u-turn point, knowing that i was still last. I had no cyclometer on the bike and i forgot to press the lap function on my Polar during transition but i felt the return trip was faster. I reached the transition area and realised that competitors like Hedgehog and Jonathan had not only arrived, but completed their race.

I put the bike on the rack, took off the helmet and put on the cap and ran straight out for the running leg. I had no idea where the route will bring me to. More runners were on the opposite side, powering to the finish point. I continued on and saw the waterpoint just up ahead. I stopped where a little fella gave me 2 cups of gatorade. After Changi Sea Sports Club, i saw Jerry who was marshalling. I realised that there was a lady competitor up ahead. I tried slowly to get to her but caught up with 2 young competitors instead, who was 12 and 13 years old. I got them to continue running, following my slow pace, while constantly trying to chase the lady runner.

I stopped for another gulp of gatorade before running slowly towards the finishing line. I received some encouragement from other cyclists. I then saw the roof of NSRCC's main building and increased my pace before finishing the race in 1:49hrs.

My only surprise was that i completed the swim leg. Good training this sprint trial. Thanks to Trifam committee for organising this race. A special mention goes out to the safety swimmer who helped me so much. I was so shacked after the swim that i didn't even asked for his name. Owe you 1 bottle of 100plus bro.

Next race, Port Dickson Sprint Tri. First, better to get more swim done.

Distance:-
Swim: 0.75km
Bike: 20km
Run: 5km
Time: 1:49hrs
Shoe: NB 1060

Summary for the week of 1 - 7 July

2007-07-09T19:17:00.000+08:00

The week i started my overseas posting.

Sunday, 1 July: MILK Run.
Monday, 2 July: On leave, lepak. No runs but went to Tiong Hin to buy rear and front blinkers for my bike.
Tuesday, 3 July: Was in Bintan. Did some gym work and a short run.
Wednesday, 4 July: Still in Bintan, wanted to swim at Nirwana Beach Club after work but my buddies decided to practice their swings at Bintan Lagoon Range, in preparation for the company's golf challenge.
Thursday, 5 July: Came home, too tired to run.
Friday, 6 July: No runs.
Saturday, 7 July: Got up late for morning ride, it was raining anyway. Watched over-the-top action movie, Die Hard 4.0 before catching up with SGRunners at their 2nd year anniversary.

Mainly I Love Kids Run - 1 July 2007

2007-07-02T16:20:00.000+08:00

1st July was supposed to be Ipoh International Run for me but the less than exciting route of Ipoh Centennial Run in May made me change my mind. So when Ed told me she has registered for MILK Run, i did the same.

Arrived at race location at 1445hrs. Changed into my race attire and met TLR who kindly offered his car as baggage counter. Left for startpoint where i met Runwitme and FBB. I realised that i was not wearing my Polar. Good excuse to slack??

Before long, the emcee and DPM flagged us off. I started the race slow, not just because of the crowded route, hot weather but also because i remember last year's disastrous run when i tired out after just a few km.

Weather was hot, though not as last year, but hot nevertheless. Bad decision to run past first waterpoint at Riverside point without drinking. Ran past Central, Boat Quay before u-turning at Fullerton bridge hoping for a waterstation. Continued running past Empress place and thankfully there was a waterpoint before Clarke Quay. Started second loop after Clarke Quay and continued running slowly, as slow as Marathon pace. No idea on finishing time but had 2 100plus and a banana while waiting for Ed, who ran the 4km Community Run with her best friend.

Distance: 8.4km
Shoe: Asics Cumulus (Not comfortable this shoe)

Summary for week of 24 to 30 June

2007-07-02T16:02:00.000+08:00

Another marathon completed.

Sunday, 24 June: Penang Bridge International Marathon.
Monday, 25 June: Zombied at work after a 11hr bus ride back to SG.
Tuesday, 26 June: CBD Run.
Wednesday, 27 June: Brick training.
Thursday, 28 June: Travel day, no runs.
Friday, 29 June: Engagement day.
Saturday, 30 June: No training. Cancelled morning ride. Watched last football match at Kallang Stadium. Singapore gave too much respect to Viduka and Kewell and lost 3-0 to Australia.

Good training week. Next race at PD Tri, 21 July.

OSIM Singapore Triathlon: Manual Timekeeping volunteers required

2007-06-29T18:44:00.000+08:00

Asked Harmoni if she needs help for the event and she said "yes, i need 20 volunteers to be manual timekeeper on 29July. You will be given a tee-shirt, 2 meals and some $$. The only problem is you'll have to report at 5am. Interested? Can you get me about 20 people?"

I've found 4.... so far.

I got posted out

2007-06-29T18:39:00.000+08:00

Got a call.... "Can you come to the meeting room, now?"

I knew what the issue was about. Someone left, job still needed to be done, so a replacement is required. My first question was, "temporary rite?" The answer was "yes", meaning "until we find the right person, when we find the right person."

My answer... "no problem boss. I'll take the job."

So from 1 July onwards, I'll be spending 3 days a week in Bintan. I'll take it as a weekly 3day 2 nights tour. Lets just see how things go.

Brick Training - for a start

2007-06-27T19:01:00.000+08:00

Having signed up for Port Dickson Triathlon Sprint event, i felt the need to train my swim as well as bike. Heard so much about brick training i.e. running after swimming. So as Wednesday came, i took the exercise-at-1700hrs priviledge granted by the boss to do just that.

Left office just after 1700hrs. With my Adidas white/red vest, Black tights, Asics Cumulus, Nathan Waist Pouch filled with USK, goggles and towel, i headed for Jalan Besar Swimming Pool. Took me about 10mins to reach the pool. Slotted in S$1 for the entry ticket and deposited my non-swimming stuff at the locker.

Jumped into the pool and started swimming, frog-style. Did 15 laps with breaks after every lap. Took about 35mins.

Having completed the 15laps/750m swim, i rushed to the locker and put on my shoes, vest and other essentials and ran out of the complex, headed towards my office building, about 1km away.

My legs certainly felt like bricks when i started running. Wonder if thats the reason why they call this brick training.

Run: 2km
Swim: 15laps/750m with rest
Shoes: Asics Cumulus

CBD Run - 26 June 2007

2007-06-27T19:00:00.002+08:00

2 days after Penang Bridge Marathon, and my legs were aching all over. Quads, hamstrings, calves, shin, forefeet, heels, they all hurt. Nevertheless, i heard that the best recovery, besides rest and massage, is a relaxing recovery run. Just in time, Tuesday meant CBD Run.

Changed to my Mizuno Blue vest and shorts and headed towards the startpoint at Tanjung Pagar MRT Station, where a group of runners such as Tiwazz, Philip, Edwinchiam, Tekko and Fennel were waiting. Put on my NB 1060 and waited for Tigger to brief on the route. He did just that, saying we'll be running Set A; our normal Marina South 10km route. TLR and FD dropped by to let the SGRunners moderators try out the new polo t-shirt. I so must get 1.

The run started soon after. I followed the last person but was soon overtaking a few ahead of me. Loneshark gave some advice about biking and the equipments i need to get. After a while, i felt the urge to pee and as we passed the Marina Bay Station, i left the group and headed for the toilet.

Continuing my run, i was all on my own, trying to catch up with the pack. Saw Tiwazz, barebodied, running back to the startpoint i assume. Caught up with Ronnie and Bee, and asked if they mind accompanying me for the longer 10km route. Bee agreed and so we set off. I followed the couple at Bee's steady pace. Before long, i felt like a lightbulb and decided to speed up, saying thank you to them.

I reached the startpoint where Tigger was on hand to offer me a cup of H2O. A good run this CBD. Unfortunately, with the IR development, the route is no longer safe for runners. However, i'm sure we'll find some other route to run at.

Distance: 10km
Shoes: NB 1060

Penang Bridge International Marathon - 24 June 2007

2007-06-27T19:00:00.001+08:00

The alarm sounded at 0030hrs. Kayano was first to the toilet, while i gave myself 5mins after another. Eventually, i got to my feet and left the room for the common toilet for a shower. A shower at 1am, not to sleep but to start running.

Applied NEAT Cream to abrasion prone areas (which reminds me, need to get Brudder Burnz to buy for me a new tube) and plasters too. I then donned my SGRunners vest, Adidas black shorts, USK, Adidas cap (by now my signature race attire), socks and NB 1060. Strange that i opted for NB 1060 instead of Asics Cumulus, i still can't recollect the reason why. Nevertheless, i had a pack of Protein Plus before heading out towards the startline by 0200hrs, just 10mins walk from the hotel.

Got to the reporting centre and was angered by the race referee and official's insistence for 2 racebibs to be put on at chest-level. I have raced numerous times, mostly in Malaysia and never once was i threatened with disqualification for not putting on 2 number bibs, at chest-levels, with safety-pins. Imagine this, a RM50 registration fee, 10 hour bus ride, got up at midnight, and disqualified because i wear 1 racebibs instead of 2. Hhhmm, ridiculous isn't it, more like chicken shit to me.

Preferring to be the victim, Teelee and i ran back to the hotel and grabbed the racebibs, and ran back to the reporting centre. The officials continued their chicken shit behavior by requesting us to put on the bibs before he let us in. We complied, put on the bib and entered the centre. I bent my frustration by peeing..... at the toilet. (gotcha hehe)

Did some stretches and warm ups before the officials opened the gate so that the runners can proceed to the startline. Said my hi to Bernard and Michelle, Mythos and Jennifer. Got hold of Balasing and tuned my stopwatch, bracing for the start.

The gun went off. I switched on my MP3 player, filled with songs selected by my best buddy Han. Crowds were lining the streets cheering us on. As always, i ensured a steady pace is maintained. Reaching the expressway towards Tesco, i stopped for my first pee break. Continuing on, i said hi to Tigger and opened up to get in line with Balasing again. We ran past Tesco and made a left turn towards the Teacher's College, where my MP3 played Elvis Pressley's "A little less conversation".

We turned left again and headed towards the startline. Stopped by the first waterpoint at the 5km mark. Saw Captain Lim of Klang Pacesetters and said hi to him. He replied by saying that I've gained weight. How nice.....!!

The crowd were still cheering us on as we passed the startline again, this time we'll be heading towards the bridge. I kept near the centre divider where the road is flat and stable. I was on the look out for the next waterpoint, where i will be taking my first pack of powergel. My race seems to be from one waterpoint to another.

Had the first pack and entered the bridge. The runners were more dispersed by now. I was running mainly with Captain Lim and another runner from SG Red Hawk. We got to the centre of the bridge, where the road slopes upwards and my MP3 playing songs by Joss Stone. I hoped for a waterpoint at the top but there was none. There was one at the end of the downslope. I had my drink but a dried fish-like bad odour was lingering. I almost puked.

My spirit was elevated when we got to the end of the bridge, signaling a u-turn. There was a waterpoint and i had my second pack of gel. Collected my second ribbon just before entering the bridge towards the island. By this time, i was already tired and i started my run-walk routine. The first 21km runner zoomed past as i reached the 20km mark. Soon, many more passed by including Juwatim. Harmoni and Vincent waved from the other side of the road. I emptied my pack of salt solution into a cup of water and drank at the last drink station on the bridge.

The sky was still dark when i reached the island. The faster 21km runners must surely have finished their race and there i was with close to 18km to go. The expressway was closed to traffic on both sides. Those ahead of me kept to the centre divider, so i followed. A powergel station came up circa 27km. I declined their offer as i still have 4 more packs in my USK. Less than half a km ahead while MP3 was playing Survivor's Eye of the Tiger, was the drink station, where i had my 3rd pack of gel.

From a distance i saw what looked like Swoop. I kept my distance, using him as a gauge. I ran past Queensbay Mall, Sports Complex, factories of every kind, before reaching the u-turn point. Collected my ribbon and continued on. Tey was at the drink station, snapping pictures of tired faces. I took my 4th pack of powergel. I planned to take 5.

By the time i got back on the opposite side of Queensbay Mall, the sun was already up. I was too tired to run and my chest was heavy. I wanted to just sit and sleep. My MP3 however, had other plans and started playing U2's "Walk On" and "It's a beautiful day". I calculated the distance against time, and suddenly felt stressed about not finishing within the 6 hours qualifying time.

I walked on in the beautiful day, chatting with every runner that i overtook and the many more that overtook me. Soon, i saw the 37.5km sign and knew that i had less than 5km to go. The time was already 5:00. I was sure i could finish 5km in an hour by walking but decided to jog just to make sure. Reached the final u-turn, collected my ribbon but felt disgusted when an official demanded a runner to put on his vest so that he could see his race bib. Ridiculous!!

After the u-turn, the group of runners surrounding me started asking me for the time. I replied and we encouraged one another. Soon, we got on the viaduct and blended in with the Fun Runners or should i say walkers. The place was crowded and i had to summoned what's left of my energy to tell them to make way. The last stretch before entering was filled with people, mainly those who have completed the run. Some cheered us on, some blocked our way. I managed to weave through and finished the race in 5:45.

I spent the next 5 minutes looking for water but there was none. Instead i had to walk to the opposite side of the road to collect my goodie bag. I walked slowly, using the time to cool down and stretch. The goodie bag minah gave me 2 bags, and they were heavy. I stopped to talk to Yen Erl, who finished her 21km race, complaining of pains of her ankle.

Getting back to the end point where my group were waiting at, i felt a sharp pain of my left shoulder. I knew i was getting cramps and headed towards the nearby first aid tent. The St John's Ambulance medic helped my to the tent, applying what little ice they have to the shoulder. When i complained that the pain is not going away, they got out the stretcher and carried me to the Medical Post. That was the first time in my life i was carried on a stretcher.

Medics at the station applied more ice to my shoulder. One even joked to the doctor that i needed CPR. All in good humour, but i knew laughing will cause more cramps. Thankfully, the pain subsided after a while, and i walked back to the finishing line, found Balasing and Teelee, and we walked back to the hotel.

A shower, 3 hour sleep, Nasi Kandar lunch, a bowl of chendol, a mug of Americano, Secret Recipe's Meatball Pasta for dinner and 10 hour bus ride later, i was back at the office, zombied.

Good run, great route, but pathetic organisation. Thumps up though to the St John Ambulance. Next is Port Dickson Triathlon.

Summary for the week of 17 - 23 June

2007-06-27T18:59:00.002+08:00

Sunday, 17 June: No runs.
Monday, 18 June: Left for a 4 day OCIP trip at Bintan with the group of "brutal" cikgus and students of CPS. Chaperone duty means no time for training.
Tuesday, 19 June: No time for runs.
Wednesday, 20 June: Still in Bintan, still no time for training.
Thursday, 21 June: Got back home, unpack and repack for Penang.
Friday, 22 June: Left for Penang after work.
Saturday, 23 June: Arrived at Penang in the morning.

10hrs bus ride and lots of good food

2007-06-27T18:59:00.001+08:00

Left office and had dinner with Ed, before returning to office for a shower. Packed my bags and headed for Golden Mile, just across the road, where the other runners in the group, Eliza, Fennel, Balasing, Swoop, Teelee and Kayano were already waiting. Soon, we boarded the Grassland bus, heading for Penang.

After clearing immigration checkpoints both at Tuas and Tanjung Pelepas, i went into sleep mode, waking up just for toilet breaks at Yong Peng and Sungei Besi. Next thing i know, we have passed the bridge and in Penang, just 2 minutes away from the bus terminal.

I looked, found and bought credits to reload my pre-paid Hotlink Malaysian handphone line from a shop at the bus terminal before calling Juwatim who left a message at my SG handphone, requesting my help to buy his return bus ticket. Lucky him, there was 1 seat left.

After a breakfast of Roti Canai and Teh Tarik, we left the terminal and headed for Anggerik Lodging. Checked into 1 of the 2 quad-share rooms we booked before heading out again towards Queensbay Mall, where we collected our race packs. A good call we made to be there early, the place was yet to be crowded. I got my pack, with racebibs number A014, 1 cotton event singlet covered with hundreds of sponsors' logo and 2 coupons for KFC and Pizza Hut. We then split and roamed the Mall.

I headed straight for the Adidas shop and found a pair of Adizero CS on display. I scanned the display further but there was no sign of my favourite shoe, Adizero SN. Saw some stuff on display and i bought myself a set of tracksuit at RM140 (after discount). Continuing my window shopping, i got tired and lepak at Dome for a bad shot of Long Black and hard apple muffin (should have just gone to Starbucks).

Next was meeting up with the rest of the group for lunch but not before i met Tey from Pacesetters, camera in hand, and another Pacesetters member holding a picture of the Pacesetter runner who recently passed away.

I ordered and paid for a plate of Fried Ee-Mee from the foodcourt at the Mall's basement, but had doubts about its halal-ness after seeing a member of the stall's kitchen staff chopping dark-pinkish colored meat just beside the stove. Refusing to think or comment, i took the plate of Ee-Mee and walked to the table my group was seating at. After explaining to them about my doubts, the group finished the dish for me.

We then left for Gurney Drive, courtesy of Fennel's cousins' cars, after i bought some packs of powerbars for Sunday's pre-race meal. Reaching Gurney Drive, i bought a giant sausage from 1901, window shopped before lepak at Starbucks with a mug of Tall 3-raw Americano and a slice of lousy chocolate cheesecake.

Met the rest of the group again and headed for the foodstreet at Gurney, where i had a bowl of Asam Laksa and a plate of rojak Pasembur. We then left for the hotel. Showered, prepared the essentials for the race, and dozed off by 2100hrs. Next day is race day.

Summary for the week of 10 - 16 June

2007-06-27T18:57:00.002+08:00

The week i bought my bike.

Sunday, 10 June: Butt hurt due to the Coastal Road ride so had to cancel my 21km run with NL.
Monday, 11 June: Brought in the second group of ACJC's Bintan 7. Can't make time for a run and had to take the last ferry home.
Tuesday, 12 June: A VVIP decided to visit Bintan and i had to bring in a group of his bodyguards who acts as his advance security team. The lingo used in my conversation with these guys make me feel like i was undergoing National Service all over again.
Wednesday, 13 June: Still in Bintan, kept swopping between the advance security team and ACJC.
Thursday, 14 June: Back at office and had lots of work to do.
Friday, 15 June: Last chance to clear work since i will be bringing another school for OCIP the week after. Sourced for a bike and found one at togoparts.com. Checked it out before paying S$1200 to bring the bike home.
Saturday, 16 June: Tested the bike at ECP, though only for a short period due to a slight drizzle.

1 week to go to Penang Bridge Marathon and i'm not prepared at all. Then again, what's new.

The bike that i bought

2007-06-27T18:57:00.001+08:00

After the 2 laps at Coastal Road on Sunday, i felt the need to get a roadbike. Furthermore, Sassyrunner mentioned about heading to Port Dickson for the Triathlon in mid July. I was at PD in April and truly enjoyed the half marathon, even though we were soaked to the skin with rain water.

I asked Ed and she gave me the greenlight to go. Then again, i don't have a road bike of my own and cycling 20km in my dad's city bike doesn't look too appetising. So i glanced through the pages of togoparts.com, searching for a bike worth within my meagre S$1200 budget. Few unsuccessful attempts before i found one posted by Jason, who was selling his full Shimano-parts Scott aluminium bike. Got Coach Suhaimi to check though the specifications before agreeing to take a look at the bike at Bedok.

The bike came with bull-horn handle and aerobars, which seemed too garang for my liking. Nevertheless, i told myself that i'll just get this bike for a start. Though Jason requested for S$1400, we managed to agree on S$1200. An hour later, the bike was on its way home, my home.

Summary for week of 3 - 9 June

2007-06-13T20:08:00.000+08:00

Long run and long ride.

Sunday, 3 June: World Harmony Run.
Monday, 4 June: Brought in the first group of OCIP for June 07, ACJC's Bintan 6.
Tuesday, 5 June: In Bintan, and left via last ferry. Brought along running/cycling gear but no chance to do any workout.
Wednesday, 6 June: Meeting with external party lasted half a day and had to rush through plans for other CIPs.
Thursday, 7 June: Lots of work but managed to squeeze in about an hour of workout at Hougang Stadium. Rushed down from Ang Mo Kio, where i bought a Specialised helmet and a pair of Adidas cycle gloves. After 1 lap of warming up round the stadium track, did 3 sets of 200m jog followed by 200m sprint before closing with 3 laps of warming down jog.
Friday, 8 June: Coordination meeting in Bintan, left via last ferry.
Saturday, 9 June: The day i started spin work. Did 2 loops of Changi Coastal Road on my father's Trek Citybike. Tried desperately to keep up with Teelee and Sassyrunner who was on their roadbike. Time to get one myself.

Good week, busy but at least i got some workout done.

World Harmony Run 2007 - 3 June

2007-06-13T20:02:00.000+08:00

I did my first run beyond 21km at last year's WHR. That was the only reason why i choose to join this year's run. With Penang Bridge looming, i had no choice but take every opportunity to do my long run.

Met FBB and left for Bukit Gombak, via Woodlands. On arrival, marked attendance and collected event singlet and t-shirt. Met Burnz, DR and Kayano at the changing room. Put on my Mizuno black shorts, WHR 07 singlet and Asics Cumulus plus USK.

After a short briefing by Thian Beng, the runners set off for the first point, circa 1.6km away, a masjid.

Summary for week of 27 May - 2 June

2007-06-13T19:54:00.000+08:00

Busy, busy week.

Sunday, 27 May: Got back from Bintan and attended OC Troop's wedding.
Monday, 28 May: No runs. Had to source for 2 sets of Kompang.
Tuesday, 29 May: Lots of work to do, and had to leave before noon for briefing at Old PA.
Wednesday, 30 May: Brought my favourite group of students, Kids for Kids, to Bintan for a day tour to Sebong Pereh.
Thursday, 31 May: Vesak Day, went to JB.
Friday, 1 June: Took leave to help out with "Uncle Amy's" wedding.
Saturday, 2 June: Help out at wedding again.

No runs, lots of work to do.