Summary for week of 13-19 May 07

ICT week.

• Sunday, 13 May: Spent most of the day clearing work and packing. Decided against going for the NB Pacesetters 15km the next weekend, as OC Troop informed that the troop has shrunk in size as many have completed their 10 year ICT cycle.
• Monday, 14 May: Reported for ICT. True enough, only 20 troopers reported for duty in Troop 2.
• Tuesday, 15 May: IPPT day. Passed and will strongly consider re-taking to claim the monetary reward.
• Wednesday, 16 May: Live shoot. Managed to attain marksmanship again, for the 4th consecutive year. 1 round went astray by the way.
• Thursday, 17 May: Long training day.
• Friday, 18 May: Booked out and had a sumptous dinner.
• Saturday, 19 May: Reported back to camp. Can't mention here the reason why. But in between shifts, i managed to squeeze in 3 laps from carpark B to Armoury and back. The road to armoury is uphill. Reason why i did this run is to make up for the NB15km pacesetter run that i will miss. Played street soccer with the guys after the run.

Another ICT completed, next year will be the last.

In-Camp Training 14 - 21 May 07

Under-went my 8th year KINS training. It was a 5 day residential. The last time we had to stay in was in year 4. I was happy to see my fellow troopers; Malik, Reuben, Sharil, Jufri, Risal, Mohsiadi, Chua, Nasir, Yaakob, Jason, Baker, Chan, Wong, Bryan, Neo, Kevin, Tang, Lau, Allen, Zul and Martin. Was rather sad that others were not around; Cikgu, Eric, Ansouri, Dicky etc.

Anyway, not much difference this training as compared to the previous in-camps. Weapon training, IPPT, Range shoot, Fibua etc. Managed to clear my IPPT: 50 sit ups, 0:00:10:04 for shuttle run, 224cm for standing broadjump, 4 chin ups and 0:11:53 for 2.4km. No $$ reward though. I did receive $$ reward for shooting, managed to gun down 29 targets out of 30, same score as last year. Wonder where the other round went to.

1 more in-camp to go before i ORNS, provided no policy change by the government.

Summary for week of 6 - 12 May

Rushing for everything.

• Sunday, 6 May: Ipoh Centennial Run. Grandma passed away today.
• Monday, 7 May: No runs, limping away.
• Tuesday, 8 May: No runs.
• Wednesday, 9 May: No runs.
• Thursday, 10 May: No runs.
• Friday, 11 May: Started packing for ICT. No runs.
• Saturday, 12 May: Had to go to Bintan for a site visit.

No way am i ready for IPPT. Will surely struggle to pull 3 chin ups and jump 216cm.

Ipoh – Singapore: The rush home

The Ipoh leg of the trip has been a rush. Firstly, we rushed to Alor Star bus terminal after Larian Bendang, not having breakfast and lunch. When in Ipoh, we settled for the first halal food shop we found instead of having what Ipoh is famous for. We then rushed to Ipoh 88 bus terminal after the Centennial run, having rushed through our washing up process in the hotel.

However, the biggest rush was when we reached Yong Peng, 2 hours away from JB. I checked my handphone and realized that I had many missed calls and messages. The first one I read crushed my heart. My cousin Yana sent a message which read “nenek dah meninggal at 1010am” (grandma passed away at 1010am). My granny has been sick for a very long time. It took a while for that to settle in but when I realized what that meant, I also felt very helpless since I was so far away. Instead, I called Yana to confirm and she told me something that gave me a bigger headache. She said that she couldn’t reach my dad. I tried calling my dad but to no avail. I called my stepmum and also received no answer. I messaged my mum, sister and brother and informed them. Tried calling my dad again and this time he answered. That provided some relief.

All I could do the 2 hours journey back was pray that I could make it on time, since the burial has been planned after the mid-afternoon prayer. If the bus made it back by 430pm, I still had a chance.

Like an act of god, the bus did reached Woodlands at 430pm. Not knowing what to do, I called my mum and she told me to go to my aunt’s place where she was at, and drive her to meet the rest of the family at the cemetery. I reached my aunt’s place at 5pm and drove to the cemetery at Lim Chu Kang. Unfortunately for me, my granny has already been buried by the time I arrived. Not to be disheartened, I made my way to her grave and offered some prayers. It was then explanation time as I had to face every member of the family and hoped they will not ask why was I not at the wake?

All this made me realized that God planned and decide everything. If I had not taken the 10am bus, I would have missed the whole funeral. Then again, if I had not finished my run in 2:08, I might not have made the 10am bus anyway. Then again, if Kak J has not been injured and Clinton had not pulled out from the trip, the possibility of me going back at 10am will not be discussed in the first place. Then again, if I had not gone for this trip, I would have been able to attend her funeral and maybe even be by her side before she died. Then again, then again, then again……….

Ipoh Centennial Celebrations Run – 6 May 07

Got up at 445am. After shower, applied NEAT Cream to abrasion-prone areas as well as plasters where required. I then put on my Mizuno white vest and black shorts, Adizero SN Red and USK-filled race belt before swallowing 2 capsules of Amino Acid.

NL and me then headed out to the start point. After registration, we did our customary stretches before the GOH arrived to flag us off for our 21km run.

The first 5km or so was run within the town. NL and me did a slow run, partly because we were nursing sore limps and muscles after the Larian Bendang, partly because we needed to encourage each other to finish the race in 2:30 latest so as to catch the 10am bus home.

The first waterpoint appeared circa the 5km mark. The route then continued on for about 8km on each side of Jalan Kuala Kangsar. Though my legs were tired and the muscles were sore, I could continue running had it not been for the other sore limps of the body. I ran slow and brisk-walked the rest of the route, stopping at the 12km and 17km mark for water. I eventually finished the run in 2:08.

Not exciting this run, the route was rather boring, much unlike PD or Bidor, or Putrajaya. Even Petaling Jaya 21km was more interesting. Though the water points have sufficient water, sponging stations would have been appreciated. I am now reconsidering going for the Ipoh International run a week after Penang Bridge, if the route is similar.
Collected my medal and goodie bag. Terrance was around to congratulate us. He seemed more relieved than we were now that we are able to make it for the 10am bus. Met Yeehua who finished 2nd in the women’s category. Congratulations to her. Also runwitme appeared and informed me about him missing the Bendang run because slept through the Alor Star bus-stop. A cup of water later and NL and me were on our way back to the hotel. We stopped by a pasar tani, selling everything like what Sungei Road does and bought Nasi Lemak and the tarik.

Distance: 21km (Though I seriously doubted so)
Shoe: Adizero SN Red
Time: 2:08

Summary for week of 29 Apr – 5 May

Rain, rain go away.

• Sunday, 29 Apr: No runs, went back to office to clear some work.
• Monday, 30 Apr: No runs, collected my new handphone.
• Tuesday, 1 May: Labour Day. Missed the May Day HSP run. It was raining anyway.
• Wednesday, 2 May: Did a light circuit training at the fitness corner near the office. 2 sets of 50 sit-ups, shuttle runs, hang at the chin-up bar, flat-feet tuck jump etc.
• Thursday, 3 May: Left for Alor Star, Kedah.
• Friday, 4 May: Arrived at Alor Star.
• Saturday, 5 May: Larian Bendang.

Good week, could have been better if not for the rain. But then, rain is good.

Ipoh, Perak – 5 May 07

After washing up and a short rest, the group assembled at the hotel’s lobby, waited while Vincent checked us out. Kak J appeared with bandaged palms and elbows. She told us that she will not be joining us to Ipoh and will be taking a flight back to JB instead. Kak J then told us about her mishap; fell and injured her palms, elbows and knees at the 10km to go mark. I gave her my good wishes as the taxis came to bring us to the bus terminal, and we arrived in no time. By 12, we were on our way to Ipoh. In the bus, Vincent and Terrance informed NL and me that we can join the rest of the group on the 10am bus back to SG from Ipoh, if we can complete our 21km run within 2:45, since there are 2 extra tickets due to Kak J and Clinton’s withdrawal. With soreness everywhere, I felt it was a daunting task. I was more interested in addressing my hunger, not having breakfast or lunch after the run. I replied that we will try to make it. 10am bus will do us much good as compared to the 10pm we were scheduled to leave by.

At 430pm, we arrived at Ipoh. A few of us made our way to the race pack collection centre, the office of Perak Chinese Chamber of Commerce, the race organizer while the rest headed for the hotel. Yeehua called and requested my assistance in collecting her group’s race pack, since they may not arrive by the 5pm cut off time.

Having collected all the race pack, we met Yeehua and gang before leaving for the hotel, a good 15mins walk away. After check in, NL and me left with Terrance, Vincent and Kevin and walked to the famous bean sprout fish place. Doubted the place serves halal food, NL and I opted for a Malay coffee-shop selling Nasi Kandar instead, and had a simple meal of rice with omelette, fried chicken, vegetables and curry fish.

After dinner, we walked around the area, where a pasar malam was being set up, and bought a bowl of bean curd each. By 730pm, we headed back to the hotel. After cleaning up and preparing for the run the next day, we watched Man Utd beat Man City 1-0 before headed to dreamland.

Larian Bendang – 5 May 07

Got up at 5am. After shower, I applied NEAT Cream to abrasion-prone areas as well as plasters where required. I then put on my SGRunners vest, Adidas tights and cap, Adizero SN Red and USK and camera-filled Nathan Waist wallet before swallowing 2 capsules of Amino Acid. Having forgotten to bring Myoplex Protein Shake and Powergels, I had to rely on just the Amino Acid to see me through the run.

Left and met the rest of the crew at the hotel’s lobby before walking towards the stadium. Within 15 minutes, we arrived. I did my customary stretches before taking pictures. Having not made any preparation for the race (been busy with work since PD Half Marathon), I decided to take this as a sight-seeing run, and equipped myself with my Lumix FX-8.

Just before 7am, the GOH, the princess of the Kedah Sultanate, appeared and flagged off the 21km runners. I did a slow jog, and NL was already a distance away from me by the time I left the stadium. Soon, I past Nezz, who told me she arrived from KL the evening before. I was looking out for Runwitme, but to no avail. About 25minutes into the run, we came into the more rural part of Alor Star. I could see to many beautifully designed kampong houses on either side, but was more interested in looking out for water-points. Instead, I saw a butcher stall, with what looked like cows hanging from hooks.

Soon, padi fields appeared on my left. A short while later, a group of traffic wardens channeled us into a road, flanked on either side by padi fields. The first water point soon appeared and I took the opportunity to take some pictures. I then continued running and chatted with Nezz, who caught up while I was snapping some pictures, and a runner from Padang Besar in Perlis. We passed a distance marker indicating we had 13km to go.

After turning left, then right and left again, we came across another water point. However, this time the water point was running out of water. I was fortunate to get half a cup of water. With 7km to go, another water point appeared, this time with more water.

Soon, I ran past the 5km to go marker, and saw many runners zooming at hyper speed. I soon realized they were running the 10km race. Trying hard not to be influenced by their speed, I kept to my slow pace and soon, had 2km to go. A lady runner caught up. From her accent and attire, I could tell that she was not local. There were only a handful of lady runners in the 21km category. Though I guessed she came from KL, this runner was actually from Singapore. She caught sight of my SGRunners vest, and introduced herself as Eliza, also a SGRunner. We ran the last 2km together, chatting away about other runs. I finished my run in 2:18, not a personal best, but who cares.

Good run, good route, but bad organization. The first water point could have been nearer and sponging stations would have been much appreciated. Nevertheless, Alor Star is a place I enjoy and would not hesitate to make a return visit. 6 cups of Milo and 8 cups of 100plus later, NL and me limped our way back to the hotel after buying a Kedah football team t-shirt at one of those pasar malam stalls.

Distance: 21km (felt more like 19-20km)
Shoe: Adizero SN Red
Time: 2:18

Alor Star, Kedah – 4th May 2007

After dinner with Ed, NL and I met the group led by Vincent and Terrance at Golden Mile. Uncle Chan, the 77-year-old runner who I tend to meet each time there is a run, was also part of the group. Vincent informed me that one runner, Clinton, pulled out at the last hour. Nevertheless, at 845pm, we got on Grassland’s bus and left for Alor Star.

After a grueling 12 hour bus journey, we arrive at the Alor Star bus terminal at about 8am. Had a light breakfast after buying the bus tickets to Ipoh. Left for hotel after that. Vincent and Kak J managed to check us in. I took a nap before waking up for Friday prayers at the nearby Masjid Zahir.

After prayers, walked past the hotel again, looking for a makan place. Took a wrong turn and ended up heading towards the stadium. Came across a place called Old Town White Coffee. I had chicken curry with rice and a delicious white coffee.

Having been given directions towards the town area of Alor Star, NL and me walked for 5 minutes towards a shopping centre. Half an hour later, we decided to go back to the hotel after having a tea break at a road-side stall.

Upon reaching the hotel, bumped into the rest of the group, who planned to go to the stadium for the carnival. Apparently, the half marathon is only part of the whole carnival. So we left the hotel and walked towards the stadium, passing by a banner informing about the carnival, and that we can expect to see Malaysian celebrities like Awie and Sharifah Zarinah. I would have preferred to meet the whole cast of Gol and Gincu.

Anyhow, 15 minutes of walking later and we arrived at the stadium. Pasar malam style stalls were set up, selling anything from t-shirts, bags, kacang puteh, drinks, foot reflexology services etc. Some competitions were held; sepak takraw, futsal, x-treme skateboarding and stunt bikes.

Collections of automobiles were also on display at the carnival. Being a fan of old cars, I took photos of all the VW Beetle and Vans on display.

After having a disappointing version of Nasi Padprik for dinner at the hawker centre near the stadium, we left for the hotel. Having cleaned up and prepare the necessary for the race the next day, I closed my eyes and slept.

Hahahaha........

Had a drink at Compasspoint Starbuck's a few days ago and i saw this:

Summary for week of 22 - 28 April

Busy, busy week.

• Sunday, 22 April: Gave up on the Mount Faber race, had to clear some work at the office.
• Monday, 23 April: No runs.
• Tuesday, 24 April: Travel day, no runs.
• Wednesday, 25 April: Lots of work to clear, no runs.
• Thursday, 26 April: Final preparations before ISO Audit, no runs.
• Friday, 27 April: Too tired to run after work.
• Saturday, 28 April: Gave up on Real Run Terrain Race, had to travel.

No runs this week, too much work to clear. 1 week to the back to back half marathons at Alor Setar and Ipoh, and 2 weeks to IPPT.

Summary for week of 15 - 21 Apr 07

Lazy, lazy week.

• Sunday, 15 Apr: No runs, still sick.
• Monday, 16 Apr: No runs, watched 2 movies, Turistas and Smokin' Aces. There seems to be a wide selection of gory movies nowadays.
• Tuesday, 17 Apr: CBD Run.
• Wednesday, 18 Apr: No runs. Wanted to do a simple circuit training at the fitness station near office, but rain spoiled my plans. Watched another movie, The Hills have Eyes 2.
• Thursday, 19 Apr: Travel day, no runs.
• Friday, 20 Apr: No runs, again, watched 2 movies, The Red Cockatoo and Fracture.
• Saturday, 21 Apr: Went to JB with Ed. Rain prevented us from having goreng pisang, but we watch a rather lousy show in Zombie Kampong Pisang.

CBD Run - 17 April 2007

After being sick for the last week, i was delighted when Tuesday arrived. Left office and made my way to CBD. On arrival, I put on my Asics Cumulus, having already donned my Mizuno Orange top and black shorts earlier at the office.

No baggage service this time so Tiwazz volunteered to be security. That also meant no one to lead the way to Mt Faber, so i volunteered to show a new route, which was up Sheares Bridge from Sundial and down at Marina Promanade before going back up at Promenade and exit back at Sundial.

Running along Maxwell Road, the group headed towards ECP and turned left into the underpass towards Marina South. We then ran at the pavement and into Marina City Park towards the sundial. Walking slowly below the Sheares Bridge, we got to the proposed IR site and climbed up the stairs and then ran on the bridge towards Marina Promenade. The fumes from vehicles plying the bridge caused us to pick up pace. Reaching Marina Promenade side, we climbed down the stairs and made a loop to the opposite site of the bridge. Climbed the stairs and ran slowly back towards Marina South. Climbed down the stairs and walked on the grass, towards Sundial.

We ran by the rockwall towards the barrage construction linking Marina East and South, turned right to soccer field and right again once we reached the seafood centre. From there, i slowed down and ran with Piglet, ST and Ronnie, who was nursing a knee injury. Slowly, we made our way back to the start.

Shoe: Asics Cumulus

Distance: 10.33km (based on previous run)

Summary for week of 8 - 15 Apr 07

Down with flu and buried with work.

• Sunday, 8 Apr: Down with flu. Stayed home all day until Ed dragged me out for dinner.
• Monday, 9 Apr: Lots of work to do, no runs. Didn't want to take medicine, couldn't afford to get drowsy.
• Tuesday, 10 Apr: Still down with flu, and had the ISO auditor to entertain. Wanted to drop by CBD and share my flu germs with the runners but rain spoiled my plan.
• Wednesday, 11 Apr: Travel day, had a meeting in Bintan. Had to get back to office upon reaching SG, clear some work. No runs.
• Thursday, 12 Apr: Another travel day, meeting the guys from Jakarta, coming over to Bintan to discuss and iron out issues concerning the hospitality school. Brought my gear along but no time for runs or any forms of work-out.
• Friday, 13 Apr: Still in Bintan, still working, still sneezing.
• Saturday, 14 Apr: Got back to SG in the mid-afternoon. Watched Wild Hogs with Ed. Probably one of the funniest show i've watch for sometime.
• Sunday, 15 Apr: Rested all day, had tea with Ed at Caffe Beviamo at Tanglin Mall. The sticky date pudding is something to die for. Soy latte good too.

So now runs this week, still recovering from flu. 1 week to Mt Faber run and 1 month to IPPT.

Summary for week of 1 - 7 Apr 07

Started with running in the rain, ending with flu

• Sunday, 1 Apr: PD Half Marathon.
• Monday, 2 Apr: No runs.
• Tuesday, 3 Apr: CBD Run.
• Wednesday, 4 Apr: Refused to run.
• Thursday, 5 Apr: Watched 2 movies with Irwan, "The Reaping and Shooter".
• Friday, 6 Apr: Had to forgo the Northern Run organised by Jamessoh.
• Saturday, 7 Apr: Went to JB, had goreng pisang. Then watched a scary movie "Jangan Pandang Belakang". Scary, good plot but they could have done better with the ghost, looked like a mannequin. Though was sneezing all day, i still stayed up late and watched Man Utd lose to Portsmouth.

Will take the following week to rest, before starting intensive training for IPPT and Mt Faber race.

Crazy or what???

Kak J called me up... "Eh Shut... a group of us going to Alor Setar in May... u wanna go?". My first reaction was... where is Alor Setar. Scanning my brain, i realised that Alor Setar is in Kedah, the second-most northern state in Peninsular Malaysia. Kak J then continued "the run will be on road for the first 3km... then we run at the padi fields..." . I started to laugh, not just because i've started to get interested, but also because i imagined myself being cramped up in a bus, sitting for 12hrs, dying to reach Kedah. But the ultimate laughter came when Kak J said "after the run we'll go down to Ipoh and run in the Centennial run the next day".

I was in 2 minds about saying yes. Firstly, i will need to take leave on Friday since we'll be leaving on a Thursday night. Secondly, 12hr journey by bus is no joke. And no toilets? Lastly, it would mean another weekend away from Ed.

Thinking about running through padi fields, i asked Ed what she thought and surprisingly she replied, "i think you should go for it." What more can i say......

Checked my leave when i got back to office on Monday and saw that i have a meeting the Friday, when i would probably be in Alor Setar. Checked with BG Lim and he said... "go lah, go lah, just change the meeting, what's the big deal?".

So, i am going to Alor Setar and Ipoh. The Alor Setar run is on the Saturday and the Ipoh one is the day after, both are 21km. Can i do it?? Doesn't matter.....

Sorry seems to be the hardest word

Why do we have difficulty saying "sorry"? It is that hard........??

Was in JB last Saturday.... at a shopping mall... and a woman knocked her trolley into me, hitting my right thigh. I called her a woman and not a lady because of her reaction...... though i honestly think that the incident was truely an accident, the woman was... not woman enough to simply apologise. Instead she immediately said.... "not my fault... he cut into my lane".... Humans.....

What's next??

Can't believe it is April, how time flies?

I've completed:

• A 30km race - GE Pacesetters 30K
• A full Marathon - KL Marathon
• A half Marathon - Port Dickson Half

So what now? Let's see.....

• continue running but concentrate more on short and fast runs: I need to work on my speed, especially if i want a decent timing during IPPT, which is less than 1.5months away.
• strength training: Got to start pumping iron and hang if i want to get monetary rewards during IPPT. My weak stations have always been standing broad jump and chin-up, though i remember failing 2.4km after passing all the other stations, once, long time ago.
• swim: Not that i can't swim, i was dubbed the "Gold Medal Swimmer" by my squadmates during PA. Can't remember where i kept my Survival Gold pin. Still, forward crawl is what i need to practice nowadays, since i can survive on frog-style.

As for races:

• Mizuno Mount Faber race is coming up: that reminds me, i need to orientate myself with the route.
• Real Run Terrain Race: 2 rounds round Bedok Reservoir, what a bore. Then again, hope the t-shirt is good.
• Ipoh Centennial Celebration Half Marathon: Can i not go??
• NB Pacesetters 15km: Just got clearance from OC Troop to go ahead with this. Yaahhooo...
• Bintan Triathlon: Need to see the coach and my teammates soon.
• World Harmony Run: Might as well join, get some mileage.
• Penang Bridge...... we'll talk about this later. Now got to go makan.

CBD Run - 3 Apr 07

The day we went up Fort Canning

With Marina South undergoing facelift due to the IR, CBD runners had to look for new running routes. This week, the group headed for Fort Canning.

Reached startpoint just after 6. Stopped by Coffee Bean and bought one whole cheezcake, partly as punishment for running faster than JT and Charlotte 2 weeks ago, partly because i just felt like bringing something, to liven up the now-seemed-very-dull-and-sien CBD Run. (photo courtesy of Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf - i was too lazy to zap some pictures)

We got going just after 7. I was in my Mizuno blue vest and shorts, NB1060 and USK attached to my racebelt. The route will take us from Maxwell Rd to Shenton Way down towards Esplanade. A u-turn and down under the bridge will swing us to the direction of Empress Place, Riverfront and Clarke Quay. Crossing the overhead bridge to bring us to the other side of the road, we'll run against traffic flow and turn right towards Clemenceau Ave before turning right again into Fort Canning. Running up the slopes and round the hill before eventually ending up at the same overhead bridge near the Reverse Bungee station at Clarke Quay. From there, back to the start.

I started fast, as the case after every races. The PD Half caused me sore quads and calf muscles but i knew for sure that i badly needed a recovery run. I shuttled from back to front, trying to save my legs for what the run was all about, the climb up Fort Canning. After some confusion at the overhead bridge, we eventually settled for running along River Valley Rd towards Clemenceau Ave and run up from there.

The slope was not too steep, nothing compared to the double hills at KL. Cokiee was leading and Fennel took over before long. I felt tired and took my time, running slow. As most were unfamiliar with the route, we waited at every intersections, ensuring that nobody got lost.

The run back was uneventful, less me trying to get JT to finish the race in style. SV reminded me about getting some sit-ups, after i told him that my IPPT is coming near. With his assistance in holding my ankles, i managed to do 50, before feeling cramps at the stomach, thigh and calves.

Can't remember who brought the H2O, but the cheezcake was good.

Distance: 9.68km

Shoe: NB 1060

Port Dickson International Half Marathon - 1 April 2007

No sub-2hr but a PB nonetheless

I got up at 5am, couldn't really sleep. Poor city boy not used to sleeping in a kampong house. After shower, applied NEAT Cream to abrasion prone areas and put on my SGRunners running vest, urban survival kit, Adidas cap and black shorts. Having checked everything in place, NL and me left for the startpoint, praying that the weather will hold.

Joining Mr and Mrs IMD at the start point after i put on my Adizero SN Red, i did my customary warm up stretches while waiting for registration to start. The weather however, had other plans. Drizzle turned to heavy rain by the time the VIP flagged off the 21km runners.

I couldn't believe the organisers allowed the race to proceed. However, at that point, i had another thing to worry about. The cold from the rain meant i had to pee, and trying to be the considerate foreigner, i held off my bladder and waited for the right opportunity. We got to the main road by the beach. Yeehua was slightly behind me at first but overtook when i stopped for my first pee break.

Rain probably turned to a slight storm and visibility was poor. I chatted with a runner from Malacca, who liked my SGRunners vest. We u-turned at the 7km mark and collected a ribbon to add to the one given during registration. Running back towards the startpoint, i adhered to my walk at every waterpoints routine, although there weren't anyone at the waterpoints. I felt tired as, opposed to the slight raise of feet for normal runs, running in ankle deep waters at part meant having to raise your feet higher and land harder for grip.

The fatique subsided as i reached the 10km point. Checking traser, i realised that i completed the first 10km in 55minutes. Sensing an opportunity for a good performance, i felt renewed vigour and continued running, a left turn towards the Armour camp, but not before another pee break. I passed by a stall selling pisang goreng but decided against buying some.

Reaching the intersection to the highway, where i needed to make a right turn and collect another ribbon, i continued at my 5-6mins/km pace. I past a runner who told me that he is currently the 90th in the "A" category, meaning we will get the finisher's medal if we complete the race. He waved me on after realising that he couldn't match my pace. I was more concerned for my timing. I missed finishing in 2hr at Putrajaya Half last year because of a miscalculation.

Reaching the round-a-bout, i collected another ribbon before turning right towards the startpoint. Distance markers indicated 2km to go. I tried to push myself but by the time i get to the last left turn towards the Marina, i knew 2hrs was beyond me. I continued on, knowing that i can still better my PB and finished the race in 2:02, cutting 3mins off my best timing.

After surrendering the ribbons, i collected my certificate and medal, got a few gulp of Milo and 100plus, and chatted with Nezz from Pacesetters. NL, who finished in 1:52, and me then left for breakfast. Good run, first time ever running in the rain for me, but an experience i will cherish for life.

Distance: 21.2km

Shoe: Adizero SN Red

Timing: 2:02

Summary for week of 25-31 Mar

No runs.... was out of town most of the week.

• Sunday, 25 Mar: No runs.
• Monday, 26 Mar: Left for Jakarta.
• Tuesday, 27 Mar: Still in Jakarta. Should have brought my running and swimming gear, the gym and pool facilities were excellent.
• Wednesday, 28 Mar: Got back in the evening and watched Ed's badminton game. No happy ending though.
• Thursday, 29 Mar: Wanted to swim but the weather did not permit. Watched two movies instead.
• Friday, 30 Mar: Watched another movie after carbo-loaded with La Mien from Banquet Harbourfront.
• Saturday, 31 Mar: Left for Port Dickson with NL and IMD. Upon arrival, collected registration pack and bought 24 packs of Powergel at RM4/pack. God knows when i will finish all that. Left for NL's granny's house, a kampong house, where we put up for the night. Went out again after that, first to Pasar Tani, the night market; then for dinner at warong Mak Mah, where i had a not-so-nice version of Nasi Padprik; and lastly to another makan place where we watched Man Utd beat Blackburn 4-1. Before we found the last makan place, i called another NS friend, Sharil to give me SMS updates each time a goal is scored and at half and full time. The funny thing was, the makan place received the live game about a minute later than viewers in Singapore. So i knew whenever a goal was scored even before it was shown on TV. Funny!!

Learning point for the week: Bring sports gear wherever i go.

Summary for week of 18-24 Mar 07

The week after KLIM... achings everywhere!!

• Sunday, 18 Mar: KL Marathon.
• Monday, 19 Mar: Reached home at 9am, took a short nap. Got up and rushed to Blood Bank, only to discover the place closes on Monday.
• Tuesday, 20 Mar: CBD Run.
• Wednesday, 21 Mar: No runs, watched Ed easily beat her opponents in her badminton game again.
• Thursday, 22 Mar: Travel day. Got back and visited Granny at the hospital before hopping to another hospital, the Blood Bank, to donate blood for the 45th time.
• Friday, 23 Mar: No runs, watched Ed's badminton game again. Though her tag-team partner was not her usual, they still won.
• Saturday, 24 Mar: Was on duty at NATAS Fair at Suntec. Then went on a makan and movie spree with Irwan.

1 week to Port Dickson Half Marathon.

CBD Run - 20 Mar 07

Still partially limping due to KL Marathon over the weekend, i braved myself for the CBD run, hoping it could serve as my recovery run. Left office just after 6pm, having changed into my white/blue Mizuno vest and blue shorts. Stopped by Tanjung Pagar market to get a comb of banana, JT and Le_charlotte complained about being hungry.

Most of the runners were already at scene by the time i arrived. After exchanging hellos, i put on my Asics Cumulus and organised my urban survival kit. Tiwazz briefly briefed the group on the route we are going to take; Along Maxwell Road before turning left down Shenton Way towards Esplanade. Then it will be under the bridge, bringing us to towards Victoria Concert Hall, Empress Place, Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay and Kim Seng. From there, we have to make our way along Outram Road, Cantonment Road before turning into Lim Teck Kim Rd. After that, a left turn into Anson Rd and we'll be back to the start point.

I started the run at the back of the pack, together with IMD. Chatting away, we realised that the group was running at a rather fast pace. Then again, i wasn't feeling tired or any soreness when i was running, a total reverse from when i walk. By the time we reached Clarke Quay, i slowed down and accompanied Orange Tee, who was the last runner. Along Outram Rd, Tiwazz took over the sweeper's role while i joined the front gang, having promised to run with JT.

Lim Teck Kim Rd was dark and so i dropped back and ran with Piglet. Soon, we reached the start and ending point, where Philip and a gang of Nike people were ready to show us their new technology.

According to Tiwazz, the route was 7km. It feels like 7km but the Nike people though, using their technology, claimed that it was 10.9km, which made many runners quietly happy.

Good recovery run, just what i need.

Distance: 10.9km (can't argue with technology, can i?)

Shoe: Asics Cumulus (still rather stiff, and hard at the forefoot area)

KL International Marathon - 18 Mar 07

Got up when the alarm sounded at 2am. Had a quick shower and applied lubricant to abrasion prone areas. I then donned my SGRunners vest and Adidas black shorts. Forced myself to drink the Myoplex protein shake as replacement for breakfast and gulped down 2 capsules of Amino Acid. I then put on my Adizero SN Red and made sure i feel comfortable in the shoe. Just before 3am, i grabbed my urban running kit and Creative MP3-filled nathan Waist wallet, Adidas white cap and left for the lobby.

Realrunner was already waiting. I did my preliminary stretches while the others appeared, one by one. Babumouse gave me 2 salt tablets. Though i would breach the rule of no experiments during raceday, i felt that salt tablets are handy aids to prevent cramps. We left for Dataran Merdeka as soon as everyone arrived. It took us about 5 minutes to reached the event location. I called Tey from Pacesetters and met him to pass his Ultramarathon finisher's tee. After exchanging best wishes, i deposited my luggage and looked for a toilet with Balasing and Benruth. Saw some familiar faces along the way, Kayano, Burnz, TLR from SGRunners. I also saw Hayley from Pacesetters, she looked super hot but calm and composed.

After being ushered into the reporting zone, i did another set of stretches and got to know a new friend in Steven. Before i knew it, the race started. I did a slow run with Balasing. Yeehua was nearby and overtook us somewhere near the 5km mark. After a pee stop, i ran faster and left Balasing, knowing that he will catch up as the distance increases.

I reached the 10km mark in 1:07. Not too bad, as i aimed to cover 9km/hr. Burnz appeared and after having my first pack of powergel, i continued on. I drank at every water stations. At 15km, i took my first capsule of salt tablet. I wasn't feeling tired or any pains. Saw Andy who was complaining of pains in his foot. I gave him some words of encouragements and moved on.

At 2:15, i reached the 20km point. Took another pack of powergel and looked around for familiar faces from the 10km stop. That way i can more or less judge who runs in similar speed as me. I saw Burnz and another Malaysian runner. We exchanged best wishes and continued on.

We reached Bukit Bintang before turning right towards Concorde Hotel, where a group of Adidas cheerleaders were chanting "Impossible is nothing", god knows what that meant. I came across Lim Kok Wing University Gallery, which sounded familiar and i realised it to be what i saw on "Gol and Gincu the series".

Being bored, i got frustrated when i didn't see the 22.5km water point where i felt it should have been. I then realised that i must have slowed down. Feeling a bit tired and a little irritation on the right knee (must be the old injury from the football match), i continued on and passed by a shop in the vacinity of Masjid India, selling Nasi Kandar. I stopped and took a deep breathe, enjoying the aromatic smell of curry fish head probably, before continuing on. Saw some 21km runners zooming past before the sight of Dataran Merdeka appeared. I knew that there will be a turn somewhere, that will take us another 18km or so, so i tried hard not to get excited.

I stopped for another pee break at a toilet, the keeper was nice enough not to demand 20sen from me. I continued on and reached the 28km water station. After that, my strides felt slower and the route feels longer. I came across a junction with a traffic controller on duty. I realised that i was alone. It was an amazing feeling when the controller commanded all traffic to stop and wait for a slow me to cross the road. I knew for sure that that will never happen should the race be held in Singapore. Thumbs up to the warden and the motorists.

I then passed by Chow Kit Road, not before nearly taking a wrong left turn when i should have gone straight. Thankfully a passerby called out and pointed me to the right direction. The support and understanding of the people was pretty amazing. Finally, i reached the 30km mark, where a fella with a casted hand enthusiastically gave out powergels. I took one and that was my third pack, washing it down with plain water. The next 5km was a run-walk, mainly walking. Balasing overtook me and i was looking over my shoulders for Burnz. Perhaps i looked too often as i had a very painful cramp of the left shoulder at 34km. Applying some heaty massage oil, courtesy of the medics at the waterpoint, i also took my last capsule of salt tablet before walking slowly.

The cramp subsided when i reached 35km where i heard a call for "Shut". I turned around and saw SV, who then called me a slacker. Fair enough. SV got me to go on a slow jog with him, and i constantly reminded him not to increase his pace, not wanting to get anymore cramps. Until then, a personal best was within reach. However, sub-5hr was realistically beyond us. SV and me decided not to "chiong" back and continued our slow jog. Got to the 36 or 37km waterpoint (the 6 and 5km to-go markers were less than 20 metres apart) and took a good sip before peeing behind a truck. It was then a slow jog to the u-turn point and back up for the final 4km.

Caught up with Steven, who looked dead tired. I motioned for him to follow us and he did. Got to the 40km waterpoint at about 5:05 and saw Babumouse, who complaint of knee pains. Babumouse, SV and me walked the next km, talking about anything under the sun. Mythos ran past after waving at SV. I then remembered that SV and me were wearing SGRunners vests. No way can we be walking back to the finishline, it will be so embarassing. So with 1km to go, i dragged SV for a slow jog. A couple of runners who have completed their races lined the pavements leading to the finish line, cheering us on. I advised SV against increasing his pace. The painful cramps i got from SCSM for "chionging" the last 200m or so served as a good lesson. Slowly, we reached the finishing line in 5:20, 8 minutes slower than SCSM for me.

I collected my finisher's pack containing finisher's tee and medal, and returned my timing chip, recovering the RM20 deposit. I then took out another RM30 from my urban survival kit and registered for the Penang Bridge Full Marathon in June. Just finished a torturous marathon and there i was registering for another one.

I guess the PB will have to wait. No worries though, as i thoroughly enjoyed this race. Organisers were great, people were great, I love running in Malaysian races. Next stop is Port Dickson Half Marathon on 1st April.

Distance: 42.195km

Shoe: Adizero SN Red

Timing: 5:20

Summary for week of 11-17 Mar 07

The week before KL Marathon.

• Sunday, 11 Mar: LSD at Coastal Rd.
• Monday, 12 Mar: No runs.
• Tuesday, 13 Mar: No runs.
• Wednesday, 14 Mar: Planned for a short 10-13km but had to forgo due to travel. Watched Ed's badminton game when i got back. I have known her for more than 10 years but never have i seen her that lively. For the record, she played doubles and won the match straight sets. Well done babe!!
• Thursday, 15 Mar: Too late for any runs. Visited granny at the hospital instead and started packing for KL when i returned home.
• Friday, 16 Mar: Ed played in another game. Though the team lost in the end, her doubles pair won their match straight sets. Carbo loaded after that.
• Saturday, 17 Mar: Left home very early to join a group of SGRunners at Golden Mile for the journey up to KL. Bus left at 730am and my stomach was not feeling good. Reached KL at 1pm, and Yeehua came by to hand us our race packs. Had lunch at Kenny Rogers and dinner at Nando's. After preparing gears for the run the next morning, i was on the bed by 10 but could only sleep at 11. Next day is race day!!

I am not as prepared for KL Marathon as i was for SCSM. I hope everything will work out fine.