A time to review my sporting calendar. I was hard-pressed to find significant achievements or moments in 2008, given that 2007 was quite a stellar year for me. In comparison, 2008 was a year of extreme firsts and injuries.
I kicked off the year with an uneventful GE Pacesetter 30km run in January. Then I ran a pleasantly unexpected PB timing at the HK Stanchart Marathon (4:08h) in February. March saw a spectacular tumble on my MTB during the Sabah Adventure Race, scrapping my chin and getting stitched up for the first time in my life. April was spent clocking back-to-back weekend mileage for Sundown Ultra-marathon, earning myself a nickname of Mileage Queen. And a nagging back-hip pain as a result. Friends and I proudly completed the inaugural Sundown 84km in May, the longest distance I had ever ran, battling the sleep monsters in the dark. The City Duathlon a week later in June was a letdown, one of the most poorly organized local races in my memory.
The 2nd half of 2008 was a very busy period and had its equal share of ups and downs. I survived my first ever OD-triathlon in Port Dickson in July, happy as a fish in water. An irony description because I swam only because I had to. On a triathlon high, I went for the Desaru Half-ironman in August, somewhat ambitious with a new tri-bike and a looming 2km sea swim target. The open sea was described by friends watching from the shore as being tossed in a washing machine. There was some truth in that. Completion was ultra-sweet, never mind my 7h timing. One could walk with a slight swagger when one was half-iron. *grin*
The annual Army half-marathon a week later was a recovery run following Desaru. It was also the start of a series of knee injuries, health issues, dropped races and declining run times for the rest of the year. In the midst of plummeting self-confidence, I signed up for swim and run coaching sessions to improve my performance. September was essentially a wasted month as I combatted an uncooperative knee, reluctantly obeyed instructions by KM to lay low and enviously watched friends peak for various upcoming marathons. It was also a financially bad month as I spent heavily on recovery treatments - physio, sports doctors, acupunctures, massages - I tried them all. Desperate measures for desperate times. In October, I travelled to Sabah again with friends for the first Borneo International Marathon. I changed categories from 42km to 21km to eventually 10km. An uncanny stroke of luck gave me a trophy for 2nd placing in the 10km Women's Open category, even if the timing (53min) was average. My first trophy!
The next week, I made my first trip to Switzerland where I ran the 2nd Lucerne International Marathon with a not-fully recovered knee. The views and experience were awesome, and so was coming in last before the cut-off at 5:30h. The Europeans were awfully fast, and I was mentally flat. The race pictures told a compelling story. Still somewhat in the European time zone a week later, I took a 9h bus ride with friends in November for Powerman Malaysia in Perak. As expected, my timing was worse than 2007, slowed down by the 2nd run segment. We returned to FatBird marathon pacing trainings in the lead-up to Singapore Stanchart Marathon. I missed my 5h pacer target and returned 45min off. It was the first time in 5 years that I did not bother to check my official timings or photos. I had a plane to catch the next day and did not want to kill my legs. I took off a day after the marathon with my climbing mates for an expedition to Nepal, Naya Kanga (5,846m). It was my first climb since July 2007, and I looked forward to being in the snow again. The trip was exciting in itself, with unexpected twists and turns of events.
It was a long and tiring 2008. I hope 2009 will be a better sporting year, with new goals and fewer injuries. Happy new year!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Lazy Swim
It was half-day in the office today. Boss treated the whole department to lunch. I had no plans in particular, so I returned to the office to sort out emails. In the evening, I went to Safra for a swim. I wonder if I still remembered how to swim after 3 weeks' break.
The gym closed early but the pool was still opened. There were a number of swimmers but I could still squeeze into a lane for laps. Lazily, I did 20 laps. Arms and back ached a little. Those muscles had gone to sleep for 3 weeks too. Took a lazy shower and headed to Ya Kun for runny eggs (which I missed so much in Nepal).
I was so tired in the night, I slept through the TV's live telecast of fireworks during the countdown. Not much of a party for me. I felt a flu creeping in. Sniff.
The gym closed early but the pool was still opened. There were a number of swimmers but I could still squeeze into a lane for laps. Lazily, I did 20 laps. Arms and back ached a little. Those muscles had gone to sleep for 3 weeks too. Took a lazy shower and headed to Ya Kun for runny eggs (which I missed so much in Nepal).
I was so tired in the night, I slept through the TV's live telecast of fireworks during the countdown. Not much of a party for me. I felt a flu creeping in. Sniff.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Recovery Run
I went to Safra for a recovery run. My first run in 3 weeks since Stanchart marathon and my return from Nepal. I did a slow run with Adam and Heng in Canterbury estate. Legs felt fresh after a long rest, lungs ok. But sweat pores were still unopened and the humidity wrapped around my skin like Glad-wrap plastic. It was nice to catch up with the runners over dinner.
Monday, December 29, 2008
The Sine Curve of a Climb - Naya Kanga (5,846m), Nepal
NAYA KANGA (5,846m), NEPAL
(8 – 27 DEC 2008)
http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/NayaKangaNepal827Dec2008#
http://www.slideshare.net/Pheisunn/naya-kanga-thoughts-presentation/
The 3-week adventure was to climb Naya Kanga (5,846m) in the Langtang region, Nepal, and traverse the valley (instead of back-tracking the same route). During my last climb in Mustagh Ata (7,546m/ 2007) in Xinjiang, China, I described the acclimatization process as painting the mountain face - every brush swoosh going longer and higher than before. This time we turned mathematicians, tracing sine curves along the way. On the map, our route resembled a giant "question mark". Imagine drawing a "?" with a dancing sine wave, gently rolling over the throes of the Himalayan ranges and valleys. There was no standalone mountain and to access any required days of trekking and traversing the crests of the ranges.
The Beginning
The journey began with a public bus ride from Kathmandu to the Langtang region. Our team comprised 5 climbers, 3 guides and a kitchen-porter crew of 18. The 10h ride took us over winding rocky mountain roads on dodgy tires that held up surprisingly well. Often, the bus had to reverse and slowly maneuver its way up the slopes, with a steep cliff drop-off to the side. A typical public bus in a developing country, it was cramped, crowded, and over-loaded. People filled the aisles and open upper deck. Occasionally, one would witness a shower of food bits splattering on the windows, as passengers threw up from the deck above. The strategy to surviving the journey was to keep one’s windows and eyes tightly shut, and sleep through the ride.
Living Conditions
We started our 6-day trek-in to the base camp for our climb. It was a relatively comfortable trip compared to my previous expeditions. We stayed in teahouse lodges for the first 6 days up to 3,900m, and it was a luxury to shower and wash my hair daily. Outside temperatures ranged from 10degC in the sun, to 2-4degC in the shade. Shower water was solar-heated and dependent on the amount of sunshine each day. Sometimes it was chilly water, which meant a quick 5-min wash – hold your breath, bravely expose body part by part (hair, arms, legs, torso), heart rate increases rapidly from cold water but persevere! – before wriggling back into the same set of warm thermals.
Meals were either bought from teahouses or prepared by our competent kitchen crew – Kumar the cook, an assistant cook and 2 kitchen helpers. There must be a monopoly printer because all the teahouses had identical menus with different prices. Teahouse operators even displayed tourism certificates that announced their training in managing small lodges. While my friends loaded up on garlic soup, fried rice and dhal baht, I often had egg noodle soup (aka instant mee) and masala (spicy) tea or hot chocolate.
At some teahouses, the owners grew their own vegetables. As we placed our orders, they would pluck plump, fresh leaves from the plots. One could taste the wholesome sweetness of the organic vegetables in the dishes. Having one’s meal framed against picturesque valleys and mountains was such a privilege. I savoured the fresh and unpolluted air as much as I could. Fresh meat was lacking in the higher altitudes and there was limited canned meat. We simply turned vegetarians for two weeks. For breakfast, our cook would prepare rice porridge (Teochew porridge style), fried or hard-boiled eggs and toast. My favourite was rice porridge with Marmite and two sunny-side-ups, and I had that for breakfast and dinner almost daily. Marmite was such comfort food, reminiscent of childhood days. On inspired occasions, Kumar would whip up an apple pie, cakes, cheese strudels, and pizzas. All that, over two portable kerosene stoves.
Acclimatization
Kyanjin Gompa (3,900m) was our acclimatization point for 3 days. It was the last permanent settlement in the Langtang valley and there was a cheese factory founded by the Swiss in 1955. Yak cheese was produced there and sent to Kathmandu for sale. Fermented from yak milk, it tasted fresh and cheesy with a slight hollowness and chewy texture. For acclimatization, we climbed two nearby peaks from our lodge – Kyanjin-Ri (4,700m) and Tsergo-ri (4,984m), and rested a 3rd day. Then we set off for base and high camps. The rest of the trip was a camping arrangement.
They say that mountaineers are a special breed. One required the finesse of a rock climber and trekker to skip around the scree and rocks, the confidence of an ice-climber to kick the crampons into snow, the lungs of an endurance athlete to last the duration, and the strength of a gym-builder to carry loads at altitude, held together by mental tenacity to go the distance. That was the ideal climber. I was far from that. We usually carried backpacks of 7-10kg, comprising an extra fleece or outer-shell jacket, drinking water, food, and headlamp. I was typically 15min/ 800m behind my team-mates, and often without a pack. It was quite demoralizing to see them far ahead on the next mountain range or slope. My ever-helpful guide deemed me too slow to be burdened by a pack. He solemnly proclaimed that I needed more fats to be stronger, and regularly took over my load. Our porters were as impressive. They carried an average of 30-40kg each and sped ahead of us in their mock-Croc sandals or sneakers. They could very well fit me in a basket and carried me!
13h Summit Attempt
High camp was situated in the snow at 4,900m. I shared a tent with Joanne and the temperature inside was -4degC in the evening. Summit day was a blessing with clear skies and no wind. We set off before 5am for the long trudge up the peak. It was a test of balancing skills on crampons as we crossed a mixed terrain of ice/ snow, giant rocks and scree before hitting pure snow line. It was good to be on compact snow. Front-point, side-step, front-point, side-step, and up we go. Daylight was breaking and our surroundings came alive.
Along the way, I munched on kit-kats and ClifBars. We clipped ourselves into the fixed rope and used our jumars to ascend the steep slopes. We had to cross several slopes before reaching the Northeast Ridge that led to the summit. The Ridge resembled the sharp end of an axe blade, and Joanne and I were climbing on it without any ropes. The summit loomed ahead, alluring, teasing. 100-200m vertical height from us and another 30min-1h climb. On either side of us, the ridge sloped steeply into the valleys.
Unfortunately, our guides underestimated the length of rope required. It was a tedious process for them to repeatedly bring up the ‘used’ ropes from behind, and rush ahead to anchor them. That cost us unnecessary waiting times and also the summit. It was 1pm, we had overshot our turnaround time and there was not enough time to haul up ropes for the last stretch. Joanne decided to turn back and begin our descent. At that rate, we would likely have to descend in the dark and cold. Nepali guides and porters are known for their excellent strength and service. That afternoon, some of our porters showed up at the base of the snow line, waiting with hot lime juice. We returned to High Camp at 6-7pm. Kumar had baked a cake, but our mood was hardly celebratory after a 13h climb and a missed summit.
Ganja-la High Pass
On a normal expedition, the summit day was usually the climax. For us, it was the start of many adventures and the expedition was just beginning. The next morning was a challenging trek over the Ganja-La High Pass (5,120m). It was a terrain of rocks and snow, up steeply towards a narrow ridge and pass, before descending over the other side. It took us 3h just to cross the Pass, and another 3h to descend to our next campsite, a lovely field beside a flowing river. We moved out of High Camp because it was warmer and better to rest at lowered altitudes. Our crew did not have enough warm clothing it was a harsh environment camping in snow. More crucially, we were using up precious kerosene because there was no running water and it took more energy to melt snow for water.
11h Trek in Search of Water
Sunshine and water are the source and sustenance of life. Electricity betters it. Basic needs that we take for granted are magnified in the mountains. Our next campsite was a 6-7h trek away. We crossed countless of mountain belts, descending a mere 50-100m every 2h before ascending again. The hide-and-seek continued for 7h, as one’s emotions roller-coastered from frustration, anger, to resignation and blank. And then the bombshell. The intended campsite had no water source nearby and there was no way to set up camp. The kitchen crew had thus gone ahead to find alternative grounds. We continued walking. The sun was setting and the prospects of trekking aimlessly in the dark sank in. It was soon 7pm and I was desperately praying hard for a solution, for everyone’s safety and hopefully no mutiny. In less established countries, porters were notorious for walking out on clients or extorting money during a crisis.
From afar, we saw a beeping red beacon to signal the crew’s location. We headed towards it, expectantly. Alas, it was not a campsite, but a landslide! We waited with the porters as some went ahead to clear a path. Everyone was hungry, tired and thirsty. The crew had trekked since morning with little food and no water. I had only two muesli bars and one kit-kat for the entire day. We shared the remaining of our drinking water with some of the guides and porters. Silently we trekked in the dark, mentally prepared to walk through the night if necessary. I had no idea where we were, except that we passed various scents – juniper fragrance filled the air, followed by crisp pine. No water source in sight. At one point, we passed a deep puddle of water amongst the roots. The crew thirstily crouched around and drank from it.
We reached a used campsite and rested. There was a makeshift shed, someone lit a fire and we crowded around it. The kitchen crew had ran ahead to scout for water. Finally, news returned that they found water an hour from the campsite. With great relief, we pitched a giant dining tent for 5 of us to sleep in. As we settled down and prepared to sleep, our remarkable cook produced piping hot thermos flasks of tea, popcorn, tomato soup and pasta. At 1am! We were speechless.
The Finishing
The rest of the expedition involved relatively easy but long 6-7h treks into villages as we made our way out of the Langtang valley and finally back to Kathmandu. It was an eclectic city, the colourful Thamel stretch overflowing with shops and touts catering to tourists’ whims. Power cuts had increased from 2h to 8h each night compared to when we first arrived. The supply of hot showers was questionable depending on where one stayed. Food options were plentiful, ranging from cheap local meals to pricier international cuisines. Even so, I was starting to miss the comforts of home and Singapore hawker food.
Every expedition, I would mentally bemoan the associated hardships and lack of creature comforts. Yet after days of urban recovery, I would eagerly look forward to the next trip. Would I gripe? Sure. Would I do it again? You bet. Bring on the climbs!
(8 – 27 DEC 2008)
http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/NayaKangaNepal827Dec2008#
http://www.slideshare.net/Pheisunn/naya-kanga-thoughts-presentation/
The 3-week adventure was to climb Naya Kanga (5,846m) in the Langtang region, Nepal, and traverse the valley (instead of back-tracking the same route). During my last climb in Mustagh Ata (7,546m/ 2007) in Xinjiang, China, I described the acclimatization process as painting the mountain face - every brush swoosh going longer and higher than before. This time we turned mathematicians, tracing sine curves along the way. On the map, our route resembled a giant "question mark". Imagine drawing a "?" with a dancing sine wave, gently rolling over the throes of the Himalayan ranges and valleys. There was no standalone mountain and to access any required days of trekking and traversing the crests of the ranges.
The Beginning
The journey began with a public bus ride from Kathmandu to the Langtang region. Our team comprised 5 climbers, 3 guides and a kitchen-porter crew of 18. The 10h ride took us over winding rocky mountain roads on dodgy tires that held up surprisingly well. Often, the bus had to reverse and slowly maneuver its way up the slopes, with a steep cliff drop-off to the side. A typical public bus in a developing country, it was cramped, crowded, and over-loaded. People filled the aisles and open upper deck. Occasionally, one would witness a shower of food bits splattering on the windows, as passengers threw up from the deck above. The strategy to surviving the journey was to keep one’s windows and eyes tightly shut, and sleep through the ride.
Living Conditions
We started our 6-day trek-in to the base camp for our climb. It was a relatively comfortable trip compared to my previous expeditions. We stayed in teahouse lodges for the first 6 days up to 3,900m, and it was a luxury to shower and wash my hair daily. Outside temperatures ranged from 10degC in the sun, to 2-4degC in the shade. Shower water was solar-heated and dependent on the amount of sunshine each day. Sometimes it was chilly water, which meant a quick 5-min wash – hold your breath, bravely expose body part by part (hair, arms, legs, torso), heart rate increases rapidly from cold water but persevere! – before wriggling back into the same set of warm thermals.
Meals were either bought from teahouses or prepared by our competent kitchen crew – Kumar the cook, an assistant cook and 2 kitchen helpers. There must be a monopoly printer because all the teahouses had identical menus with different prices. Teahouse operators even displayed tourism certificates that announced their training in managing small lodges. While my friends loaded up on garlic soup, fried rice and dhal baht, I often had egg noodle soup (aka instant mee) and masala (spicy) tea or hot chocolate.
At some teahouses, the owners grew their own vegetables. As we placed our orders, they would pluck plump, fresh leaves from the plots. One could taste the wholesome sweetness of the organic vegetables in the dishes. Having one’s meal framed against picturesque valleys and mountains was such a privilege. I savoured the fresh and unpolluted air as much as I could. Fresh meat was lacking in the higher altitudes and there was limited canned meat. We simply turned vegetarians for two weeks. For breakfast, our cook would prepare rice porridge (Teochew porridge style), fried or hard-boiled eggs and toast. My favourite was rice porridge with Marmite and two sunny-side-ups, and I had that for breakfast and dinner almost daily. Marmite was such comfort food, reminiscent of childhood days. On inspired occasions, Kumar would whip up an apple pie, cakes, cheese strudels, and pizzas. All that, over two portable kerosene stoves.
Acclimatization
Kyanjin Gompa (3,900m) was our acclimatization point for 3 days. It was the last permanent settlement in the Langtang valley and there was a cheese factory founded by the Swiss in 1955. Yak cheese was produced there and sent to Kathmandu for sale. Fermented from yak milk, it tasted fresh and cheesy with a slight hollowness and chewy texture. For acclimatization, we climbed two nearby peaks from our lodge – Kyanjin-Ri (4,700m) and Tsergo-ri (4,984m), and rested a 3rd day. Then we set off for base and high camps. The rest of the trip was a camping arrangement.
They say that mountaineers are a special breed. One required the finesse of a rock climber and trekker to skip around the scree and rocks, the confidence of an ice-climber to kick the crampons into snow, the lungs of an endurance athlete to last the duration, and the strength of a gym-builder to carry loads at altitude, held together by mental tenacity to go the distance. That was the ideal climber. I was far from that. We usually carried backpacks of 7-10kg, comprising an extra fleece or outer-shell jacket, drinking water, food, and headlamp. I was typically 15min/ 800m behind my team-mates, and often without a pack. It was quite demoralizing to see them far ahead on the next mountain range or slope. My ever-helpful guide deemed me too slow to be burdened by a pack. He solemnly proclaimed that I needed more fats to be stronger, and regularly took over my load. Our porters were as impressive. They carried an average of 30-40kg each and sped ahead of us in their mock-Croc sandals or sneakers. They could very well fit me in a basket and carried me!
13h Summit Attempt
High camp was situated in the snow at 4,900m. I shared a tent with Joanne and the temperature inside was -4degC in the evening. Summit day was a blessing with clear skies and no wind. We set off before 5am for the long trudge up the peak. It was a test of balancing skills on crampons as we crossed a mixed terrain of ice/ snow, giant rocks and scree before hitting pure snow line. It was good to be on compact snow. Front-point, side-step, front-point, side-step, and up we go. Daylight was breaking and our surroundings came alive.
Along the way, I munched on kit-kats and ClifBars. We clipped ourselves into the fixed rope and used our jumars to ascend the steep slopes. We had to cross several slopes before reaching the Northeast Ridge that led to the summit. The Ridge resembled the sharp end of an axe blade, and Joanne and I were climbing on it without any ropes. The summit loomed ahead, alluring, teasing. 100-200m vertical height from us and another 30min-1h climb. On either side of us, the ridge sloped steeply into the valleys.
Unfortunately, our guides underestimated the length of rope required. It was a tedious process for them to repeatedly bring up the ‘used’ ropes from behind, and rush ahead to anchor them. That cost us unnecessary waiting times and also the summit. It was 1pm, we had overshot our turnaround time and there was not enough time to haul up ropes for the last stretch. Joanne decided to turn back and begin our descent. At that rate, we would likely have to descend in the dark and cold. Nepali guides and porters are known for their excellent strength and service. That afternoon, some of our porters showed up at the base of the snow line, waiting with hot lime juice. We returned to High Camp at 6-7pm. Kumar had baked a cake, but our mood was hardly celebratory after a 13h climb and a missed summit.
Ganja-la High Pass
On a normal expedition, the summit day was usually the climax. For us, it was the start of many adventures and the expedition was just beginning. The next morning was a challenging trek over the Ganja-La High Pass (5,120m). It was a terrain of rocks and snow, up steeply towards a narrow ridge and pass, before descending over the other side. It took us 3h just to cross the Pass, and another 3h to descend to our next campsite, a lovely field beside a flowing river. We moved out of High Camp because it was warmer and better to rest at lowered altitudes. Our crew did not have enough warm clothing it was a harsh environment camping in snow. More crucially, we were using up precious kerosene because there was no running water and it took more energy to melt snow for water.
11h Trek in Search of Water
Sunshine and water are the source and sustenance of life. Electricity betters it. Basic needs that we take for granted are magnified in the mountains. Our next campsite was a 6-7h trek away. We crossed countless of mountain belts, descending a mere 50-100m every 2h before ascending again. The hide-and-seek continued for 7h, as one’s emotions roller-coastered from frustration, anger, to resignation and blank. And then the bombshell. The intended campsite had no water source nearby and there was no way to set up camp. The kitchen crew had thus gone ahead to find alternative grounds. We continued walking. The sun was setting and the prospects of trekking aimlessly in the dark sank in. It was soon 7pm and I was desperately praying hard for a solution, for everyone’s safety and hopefully no mutiny. In less established countries, porters were notorious for walking out on clients or extorting money during a crisis.
From afar, we saw a beeping red beacon to signal the crew’s location. We headed towards it, expectantly. Alas, it was not a campsite, but a landslide! We waited with the porters as some went ahead to clear a path. Everyone was hungry, tired and thirsty. The crew had trekked since morning with little food and no water. I had only two muesli bars and one kit-kat for the entire day. We shared the remaining of our drinking water with some of the guides and porters. Silently we trekked in the dark, mentally prepared to walk through the night if necessary. I had no idea where we were, except that we passed various scents – juniper fragrance filled the air, followed by crisp pine. No water source in sight. At one point, we passed a deep puddle of water amongst the roots. The crew thirstily crouched around and drank from it.
We reached a used campsite and rested. There was a makeshift shed, someone lit a fire and we crowded around it. The kitchen crew had ran ahead to scout for water. Finally, news returned that they found water an hour from the campsite. With great relief, we pitched a giant dining tent for 5 of us to sleep in. As we settled down and prepared to sleep, our remarkable cook produced piping hot thermos flasks of tea, popcorn, tomato soup and pasta. At 1am! We were speechless.
The Finishing
The rest of the expedition involved relatively easy but long 6-7h treks into villages as we made our way out of the Langtang valley and finally back to Kathmandu. It was an eclectic city, the colourful Thamel stretch overflowing with shops and touts catering to tourists’ whims. Power cuts had increased from 2h to 8h each night compared to when we first arrived. The supply of hot showers was questionable depending on where one stayed. Food options were plentiful, ranging from cheap local meals to pricier international cuisines. Even so, I was starting to miss the comforts of home and Singapore hawker food.
Every expedition, I would mentally bemoan the associated hardships and lack of creature comforts. Yet after days of urban recovery, I would eagerly look forward to the next trip. Would I gripe? Sure. Would I do it again? You bet. Bring on the climbs!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Day 1 in Kathmandu
We arrived in Nepal Kathmandu yesterday. It was my 3rd trip here, but the place looked the same. We stayed in this dinghy place called Potala Tourist Home. It was anything but a home. First there was no hot water. The lady in charge looked at the window and commented 'with this weather (cloudy), there's no water'. And that was it! Luckily our other room had a gas canister heater, so I managed to get a shower in the afternoon. The rest were not so lucky, as they waited til evening to wash up. By which time, there was a power cut (every zone had a 2-3h power cut every day), and then the water supply started becoming erratic too. So they either washed in the cold, or had the water stopped in the middle of the shower. *shake head* We skipped dinner I slept around 7pm.... all the way until the next morning 7am. Shiok!
Today we went around the shops to get our equipment etc. Breakfast and lunch were both satisfying. At least the food here was good and cheap. My strategy was to get back to the room while there was still light, and wash my hair, pack my stuff etc. True enough, today's power cut started at 5pm and lasted til 8pm. Which explains why I'm using the internet only after power resumed.
Tomorrow we are off. A 10h bus ride to the start of our trek. We leave early at 6am to take a local bus (ie. public, ie. crowded and dirty and totally uncomfortable).
Today we went around the shops to get our equipment etc. Breakfast and lunch were both satisfying. At least the food here was good and cheap. My strategy was to get back to the room while there was still light, and wash my hair, pack my stuff etc. True enough, today's power cut started at 5pm and lasted til 8pm. Which explains why I'm using the internet only after power resumed.
Tomorrow we are off. A 10h bus ride to the start of our trek. We leave early at 6am to take a local bus (ie. public, ie. crowded and dirty and totally uncomfortable).
Monday, December 8, 2008
Screwed
It was a hopeless & messy marathon for me today. Had a bit of a personal disaster, so in the end I did not start with my pacer group. By the time I squeezed through the pen, I crossed the starting mat very late. I spent 20km trying to catch up with my group, and gave up by 26km. So I took off my pacer shirt so as not to mislead runners, and continued with my own run. This was one marathon where I (a) drank the most at drink stations, and (b) ate the least power gels (only 2!).
In any case, it was a pretty screwed up run. I'm just glad 2008 is drawing to a close and SCSM was the last run for the year. Time to retire my legs....
In any case, it was a pretty screwed up run. I'm just glad 2008 is drawing to a close and SCSM was the last run for the year. Time to retire my legs....
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Last Stairs and a Silk Liner
My last day of training before marathon and expedition. Should I be happy that I could rest for a few days, or anxious that the events are ticking close? I did the same as before, 8 sets at TB flat. My backpack seemed heavier - maybe the packing and weight distribution was not ideal. The wonders of the human body to adapt to a differen training routine. Legs were definitely conditioned by now to the demands of stair climbing with load. So unlike the first time a month ago when I started and ached for a few days. The 8 sets were still a boring routine, but at least it passed rather soon. Alber was waiting to have dinner so I had inspiration to rush through the last set. *pant pant breathe*
Now to go home and dig out my silk sleeping bag liner. Last night I experimented with one, sleeping in my air-con room inside the liner. Then I felt cold, and pulled over my silk blanket. My arms were directly cocooned by the blanket and were nice and warm. My toes though were wriggling inside the liner and kinda cool. Hmmm... maybe the liner was not 100% silk. Ok, it really was not, given how cheap it was. So tonight I am going to experiment again with my pure silk liner and see if there is a difference.
Now to go home and dig out my silk sleeping bag liner. Last night I experimented with one, sleeping in my air-con room inside the liner. Then I felt cold, and pulled over my silk blanket. My arms were directly cocooned by the blanket and were nice and warm. My toes though were wriggling inside the liner and kinda cool. Hmmm... maybe the liner was not 100% silk. Ok, it really was not, given how cheap it was. So tonight I am going to experiment again with my pure silk liner and see if there is a difference.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Yellowfish Swim Class
It began raining at the start of the class at Mountbatten pool today. Brrr..... the water was cold. Underwater, I could hear the rain splatter, in addition to my arm splashes. I thought the rain might get heavier, given the dark clouds looming overhead. Thankfully it stopped after 15min.
Class was kind of tough today. Well, Monday's class was faster than Friday's, so I ended up back in Lane 1 (no complaints though). We did quite a lot of drills too.
4-6 laps of freestyle kicks (cos can't remember the exact laps)
2-4 laps of front crawl arms only (buoys between legs)
Easy 200m swim
6-12 sets of 50m sprints
Recovery 200m
6-12 sets of 50m sprints
Long swim moderate pace 400m (other lanes 500m)
100m butterfly/ front-crawl
2 laps of catchup drills
2 laps of one-arm pull (alternate side)
2 laps of fist-swim
2-3 laps of any-style swim (literally 'free' style)
Wow, that was a long agenda. I was quite bushed after class. And cold..... so cold that I wore my jacket in the car after the (cold) shower, and drove off in search of dinner. A bowl of nice hot soupy stuff was comforting. :) I drove to NUS prata stretch. First, I had a ban mian from the Taiwanese shop - I quite liked the place. Then I went next door for a prata-kosong. Nicely warmed up and satisfied. :)
Class was kind of tough today. Well, Monday's class was faster than Friday's, so I ended up back in Lane 1 (no complaints though). We did quite a lot of drills too.
4-6 laps of freestyle kicks (cos can't remember the exact laps)
2-4 laps of front crawl arms only (buoys between legs)
Easy 200m swim
6-12 sets of 50m sprints
Recovery 200m
6-12 sets of 50m sprints
Long swim moderate pace 400m (other lanes 500m)
100m butterfly/ front-crawl
2 laps of catchup drills
2 laps of one-arm pull (alternate side)
2 laps of fist-swim
2-3 laps of any-style swim (literally 'free' style)
Wow, that was a long agenda. I was quite bushed after class. And cold..... so cold that I wore my jacket in the car after the (cold) shower, and drove off in search of dinner. A bowl of nice hot soupy stuff was comforting. :) I drove to NUS prata stretch. First, I had a ban mian from the Taiwanese shop - I quite liked the place. Then I went next door for a prata-kosong. Nicely warmed up and satisfied. :)
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Sea Swim & Trails
I was late for this morning's sea swim. Oops. Too tired from last night's outing. I missed a few laps and only did 1 warm-up lap of the 250(?)m triangular loop. Then we were grouped into 2, 3, and 4 loops. Coach instructed us to try all sorts of 'stunts' - backstroke, sighting, overtaking etc - while doing the loops. We ended with relay sprints in teams of 4 swimmers. My group had a really young Sec 2 boy who was very very fast. I swam first, then 2 others, and he took the last slot. While we were around 3rd placing, he managed to propel us to 1st spot each time. He was not even sprinting nor panting. The way he cut and glided through the water was so effortless, it was a joy to watch from the shore. He took his time to breast-stroke and once clear of the crowd around the buoy, he took off into front crawl. It was like watching a musical symphony, in harmony, smoothly executed. While the other swimmers were furiously pumping arms into the water, he just cut ahead. Wow.
Late in the afternoon, I went to BT for trail training. As usual, 3x SRJ paths. Pack felt heavier even though the items were unchanged from before. It was almost dark when I finished my training. Had to rush back for a wedding dinner.
Late in the afternoon, I went to BT for trail training. As usual, 3x SRJ paths. Pack felt heavier even though the items were unchanged from before. It was almost dark when I finished my training. Had to rush back for a wedding dinner.
Night Safari Visit
I had a couple of corporate passes to Night Safari this weekend. So we went for a visit tonight - Heng's family, Eddie's family, Alber and I. The evening started off with a very nice home-cooked dinner at Heng's place, thanks to Eve's cooking skills. :) We brought a cheesecake and 2 tubs of new-flavoured B&Js ice-cream (One Cheesecake Brownie & Cake Batter). B&Js never failed me, and those were no exception. The ice-cream was rich, creamy and ooooh. The Breadtalk cheesecake was not up to my expectations though, more like fluffy whipped cream-cheese.
We made it to Night Safari, hopped on the tram and took a ride around the enclosures. It was a good experience for the children. Some of the animals were pretty close to the tram, grazing on the grass or sleeping, and generally ignoring the human visitors. We took a short stroll in the trails, and ended with a Nights of the Creature animal show. Pretty decent stuff and great visitor experience overall. :)
We made it to Night Safari, hopped on the tram and took a ride around the enclosures. It was a good experience for the children. Some of the animals were pretty close to the tram, grazing on the grass or sleeping, and generally ignoring the human visitors. We took a short stroll in the trails, and ended with a Nights of the Creature animal show. Pretty decent stuff and great visitor experience overall. :)
Saturday, November 29, 2008
MR Trail Test-of-Reflexes Run
I love running in the trails. Back at MR this morning (well, it was more like noon) in the blazing heat. There was a new carpark in construction, it looked really big and would be a great help to easing the parking limits at MR. I decided to run to Pierce toilet and back.
It was certainly a test of my reflexes. I almost stepped on a sunbathing grass snake, which was brown and looked like a twig. It slithered away fast and furious before I even lifted my foot over it. I was more shocked than it. The monkeys were out in a troops today, seldom saw so many in MR. I kept slapping my thighs to create 'warning' noise (lest they attacked), and almost missed a giant monitor lizard in the middle of the path. Had to jam-brake! As I was afraid to jump over it, I had no choice but to jog on the spot and wait for it to slowly crawl across the path. A little further up, I saw another monitor lizard again. Gosh! Met Chairman and a Safra lady runner as I was finishing my run. Hmmm, clocking mileage at this stage of marathon training?
The run was good, legs felt bouncy. Love the softness of grass and trail. :)
It was certainly a test of my reflexes. I almost stepped on a sunbathing grass snake, which was brown and looked like a twig. It slithered away fast and furious before I even lifted my foot over it. I was more shocked than it. The monkeys were out in a troops today, seldom saw so many in MR. I kept slapping my thighs to create 'warning' noise (lest they attacked), and almost missed a giant monitor lizard in the middle of the path. Had to jam-brake! As I was afraid to jump over it, I had no choice but to jog on the spot and wait for it to slowly crawl across the path. A little further up, I saw another monitor lizard again. Gosh! Met Chairman and a Safra lady runner as I was finishing my run. Hmmm, clocking mileage at this stage of marathon training?
The run was good, legs felt bouncy. Love the softness of grass and trail. :)
Friday, November 28, 2008
Yellowfish Swim - Conned to Sprint
I had a good tui-na yesterday. After the kneading on my neck and entire spine, I could breathe much easier today. Consequently, swim class was a lot more productive and manageable (compared to last week's heaving and puffing and blocked nose full works).
I was late and reached only at 7pm, and missed 15min of drills. :( I joined in for some side rolls and then some 50m of back-stroke, breast-stroke, butterfly, front crawl, before we started on training laps. There was a weird soreness in my left biceps/ shoulders. Could it be the effect of my Tetanus jab yesterday? Sure it was not that lasting.... but the muscle around the jab prick was really sore. I could sort of rotate my arm, but not really 'pull' the water.
We did 450m, 350m, 250m, 200m. Then 50m sprints. Coach said 8 sets for lanes 3-4, and 6 sets for lanes 1-2. After the 1set however, he claimed we were very disorganized, so not counted and restarted from zero. Wah seh, kenna conned! Haha. So we dutifully did 6 more sets. Then another con. He said rest for 2min and do another set of 6 sprints. *blink* Mental calculation - that meant 12 sprints?!? Breath got faster. Maybe Coach was teasing us, and after some protests, he ended after 3 sprints. Whew....
I was late and reached only at 7pm, and missed 15min of drills. :( I joined in for some side rolls and then some 50m of back-stroke, breast-stroke, butterfly, front crawl, before we started on training laps. There was a weird soreness in my left biceps/ shoulders. Could it be the effect of my Tetanus jab yesterday? Sure it was not that lasting.... but the muscle around the jab prick was really sore. I could sort of rotate my arm, but not really 'pull' the water.
We did 450m, 350m, 250m, 200m. Then 50m sprints. Coach said 8 sets for lanes 3-4, and 6 sets for lanes 1-2. After the 1set however, he claimed we were very disorganized, so not counted and restarted from zero. Wah seh, kenna conned! Haha. So we dutifully did 6 more sets. Then another con. He said rest for 2min and do another set of 6 sprints. *blink* Mental calculation - that meant 12 sprints?!? Breath got faster. Maybe Coach was teasing us, and after some protests, he ended after 3 sprints. Whew....
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
TB Stairs
I did 8 sets of TB stairs tonight. I was slower, but legs definitely felt more conditioned for stairs than my last 2 trainings. I met Lihui in the stairs, the girls had a media launch this morning. My knee hurt a little on some steps. Hmm....
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Run Alone
I did a run by myself from Safra to Portsdown, Buona Vista, Queensway and back. 14km route. It took me forever. I decided not to wear the patella guard today. So knee started hurting after 8-10km. Sigh. The 14km took me a long long time to complete. Felt so disgusted with myself. Totally envious of those who can run fast and pain-free. :((
Monday, November 24, 2008
Climb or Not?
Felt well-rested today (slept a lot yesterday). Did RPM Challenge tonight, but was very distracted. I was planning several things in my mind, and did not feel like pushing hard. Oh well. The class was full, I almost could not get a bike.
Friends were planning another major climb next year. Contemplating if I should join them or not. Times are bad, cash is tight, USD is expensive. Maybe I should decide after my year-end climb and judge my condition. La-li-la...
Friends were planning another major climb next year. Contemplating if I should join them or not. Times are bad, cash is tight, USD is expensive. Maybe I should decide after my year-end climb and judge my condition. La-li-la...
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Disastrous Sunday Run
This morning's FatBird pacer run was a disastrous. The penalty of being at BT trails yesterday. My legs felt like lead, I was reminded of the Gatorade ad where the chap was running and swimming with chains on feet. Absolutely dragging. It did not help that I spent the first 6km trying to catch up and overtake the pacer groups in front of me (I started 1-2min later). Either I was very very slow, or they were way over their target pace! My watch registered an average of 6:30min pace (and I should be at 7:00min target). If they were ahead of me, yet pacing a slower timing, then what pace were they at? Befuddled.
Met many along the way. First saw the Tampines Safra runners at Big Splash - the very skinny but fast lady, Sam and others. Then met Gabor, Michelle etc around B2/C1. Ahh, so KM was having the group's Sunday training at ECP too. He was on a bike with a huge stopwatch chaperoning the runners. How charming. At F2, Yellowfish gang was there doing a Nike Lunar shoe trial. Coach led the group on the run. Saw Eddie, Sandy, Kenneth, Kristal, Ronnie, Richard.... just about the folks who went up to Powerman.
Vincent joined me around the Changi PCN (he was also 5h pacer but had gone ahead with the 4:45h group). We made our way to the u-turn point at the 2nd hut along Coastal Road. I saw Dom cycling, and I think Alex too. The run started going downhill after the u-turn. Legs were getting heavier. I was wearing my new Asics GTs (a cool pastel pink! Awfully sweet!) and they were pounding heavily on the road. Sigh.
I made it to the toilet at G2. The weather was hot today, I drank a lot. Then I half-ran, half-walked to the next toilet at F2. Yellowfish folks had finished their run and were having drinks & bananas there. Jancy and Vincent ran ahead. Passion half-strolled, half-jogged with me to the hawker centre where she bought 100-plus. I kept asking her to go ahead and run back, but she very kindly walked with me instead. We stopped again near MacDonalds bike rental - I got a Pocari, she got an A&W rootbeer. I was near empty now, my fuel gauge was low low low. We walked and chatted all the way from hawker centre back to Big Splash! And took forever to reach. She had gone for the DSO lab tests too so we compared notes. We made plans for our de-kah (pork trotters) binge outing. :) When we reached Big Splash, it was almost 3:30h. Most people have left already. Oops. I felt so bad for spoiling her run.
Alber and I drove to BT market for brunch. I was famished and hot. Downed an entire plate of chicken noodles. Plus an ice-cold Ribena (and I normally did not take cold drinks). It was heavens. Kept gulping water after I reached home, and still felt super tired with a slight headache. Hit the sack and snoozed for a few hours. Awoke feeling much better, but hungry. Alber said my life was a constant sleep, eat, workout, sleep, eat, workout cycle. Haha.
Met many along the way. First saw the Tampines Safra runners at Big Splash - the very skinny but fast lady, Sam and others. Then met Gabor, Michelle etc around B2/C1. Ahh, so KM was having the group's Sunday training at ECP too. He was on a bike with a huge stopwatch chaperoning the runners. How charming. At F2, Yellowfish gang was there doing a Nike Lunar shoe trial. Coach led the group on the run. Saw Eddie, Sandy, Kenneth, Kristal, Ronnie, Richard.... just about the folks who went up to Powerman.
Vincent joined me around the Changi PCN (he was also 5h pacer but had gone ahead with the 4:45h group). We made our way to the u-turn point at the 2nd hut along Coastal Road. I saw Dom cycling, and I think Alex too. The run started going downhill after the u-turn. Legs were getting heavier. I was wearing my new Asics GTs (a cool pastel pink! Awfully sweet!) and they were pounding heavily on the road. Sigh.
I made it to the toilet at G2. The weather was hot today, I drank a lot. Then I half-ran, half-walked to the next toilet at F2. Yellowfish folks had finished their run and were having drinks & bananas there. Jancy and Vincent ran ahead. Passion half-strolled, half-jogged with me to the hawker centre where she bought 100-plus. I kept asking her to go ahead and run back, but she very kindly walked with me instead. We stopped again near MacDonalds bike rental - I got a Pocari, she got an A&W rootbeer. I was near empty now, my fuel gauge was low low low. We walked and chatted all the way from hawker centre back to Big Splash! And took forever to reach. She had gone for the DSO lab tests too so we compared notes. We made plans for our de-kah (pork trotters) binge outing. :) When we reached Big Splash, it was almost 3:30h. Most people have left already. Oops. I felt so bad for spoiling her run.
Alber and I drove to BT market for brunch. I was famished and hot. Downed an entire plate of chicken noodles. Plus an ice-cold Ribena (and I normally did not take cold drinks). It was heavens. Kept gulping water after I reached home, and still felt super tired with a slight headache. Hit the sack and snoozed for a few hours. Awoke feeling much better, but hungry. Alber said my life was a constant sleep, eat, workout, sleep, eat, workout cycle. Haha.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Toxic Bt Timah
I was so zonked last night, I slept all the way til noon today. The sun was bright and hot outside. I dragged my lazy body out of bed and got ready for another afternoon in BT trail steps training. Good golly, I found my (misplaced) trekking poles! Oops.... and I had just received a brand new pair last week. :( Now I felt bad that my friends had to spend money to buy that for me. *guilty pout* No matter, the old pair was a little stiff to the turn but still usable. They had served me faithfully for 5 years. I would use them for local trainings or lend them to friends, and bring my nice new Ultralight pair on the expedition! :)
Training:
3x Spath
3x Rpath
3x Jpath
Over! Happiness!
I made the mistake of over-tightening my shoulder straps, and suffered big time on the first two sets of steps at SR-paths. Could not breathe properly as the entire weight pressed down on my shoulders. Luckily I had some sense to readjust the straps and what a huge difference that made for my last set of J-path. But still, shoulders were aching. A group of uncles were at Rengas and commenting on my gear by the sideline, guessing the weight of my pack and how come my boots were not Timberland (?!?). I took a sip on my hydration tube, and heard one proudly telling his friend that it was water and I was drinking (from that device). Haha. It was like having a live commentary by my side. Today I did not see any creepy crawlies (last week a huge monitor lizard crawled lazily into my path). Instead I saw many squirrels bounding across the steps and amongst the trees. Cute. I finished the sets drenched in sweat, as usual. Every part of my gear was totally wet with perspiration, no matter how 'dri-fit' or wicking the material was.
A well-rewarded dinner - fresh sashimi overload with Alber at our favourite Sakuraya hideout. Double slabs of salmon belly, maguro, scallops (shiok!), cuttlefish, octopus, chuka hotate, grilled saba, sticky rice and green tea ice-cream. Heavens. The two of us ate more than a table of 5 next to us. They had the same amount of sashimi orders but for 5. Gosh!
Training:
3x Spath
3x Rpath
3x Jpath
Over! Happiness!
I made the mistake of over-tightening my shoulder straps, and suffered big time on the first two sets of steps at SR-paths. Could not breathe properly as the entire weight pressed down on my shoulders. Luckily I had some sense to readjust the straps and what a huge difference that made for my last set of J-path. But still, shoulders were aching. A group of uncles were at Rengas and commenting on my gear by the sideline, guessing the weight of my pack and how come my boots were not Timberland (?!?). I took a sip on my hydration tube, and heard one proudly telling his friend that it was water and I was drinking (from that device). Haha. It was like having a live commentary by my side. Today I did not see any creepy crawlies (last week a huge monitor lizard crawled lazily into my path). Instead I saw many squirrels bounding across the steps and amongst the trees. Cute. I finished the sets drenched in sweat, as usual. Every part of my gear was totally wet with perspiration, no matter how 'dri-fit' or wicking the material was.
A well-rewarded dinner - fresh sashimi overload with Alber at our favourite Sakuraya hideout. Double slabs of salmon belly, maguro, scallops (shiok!), cuttlefish, octopus, chuka hotate, grilled saba, sticky rice and green tea ice-cream. Heavens. The two of us ate more than a table of 5 next to us. They had the same amount of sashimi orders but for 5. Gosh!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Yellowfish Swim Class
Swim class was a torture tonight. Did not feel well, nose blocked, sore throat. We did the usual drills for the first half - catch-up drills - eeks, I still could not execute that for a full 50m without running out of breath. :( Even 400m moderate swim was a challenge for me tonight. 400m, 300m, 200m, 100m, 200m, 300m (well, our lane was so slow, we skipped the last 300m). We did 2x 50m sprints (only!) tonight. Last week we did 8 sets, and I survived. But not tonight. I bailed out the last 10m of the 2nd set, almost cramped. Oh dear..... Super tired....
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Lactate Threshold & VO2max Tests
Part of the DSO-marathon study required us to undergo a medical screening (to certify that we were in ok shape to partake in the study), and a lactate threshold and VO2max test. My ECG and 2D-echo and battery of blood tests were normal, musculo-skeletal (aka a series of rotations and limb movements) was functioning too. So I showed up at the DSO physio lab. Two army recruits were out on threadmills in the sun, in full combat gear and doing some tests, breathing into face masks. How interesting.
First, I had to do a fat-pinch measurement. The researcher (I think he's German or Swiss) marked litte crosses on my biceps, triceps, waist, quads and calves. Then he had a caliper device to pinch the flesh on those areas and measured them. He repeated 2-3 times.
Next up, lactate threshold treadmill test. I put on a face mask that measured the amount of oxygen intake (or something). The aim was to run for 3min intervals. Every 3min, I would straddle the treadmill while a researcher pricked my little finger to get 2 lactic acid readings, and another upped the speed by 0.5kmh. There was also an exertion chart that I pointed at to indicate the level of hardness of my workout. The aim was to find the point of inflexion where the amount of lactic acid in the body started to spike, a sharp increase. I started at 8.5kmh and gradually went up to 12 or 12.5kmh (can't recall). I think my threshold point was around 11.5/ 12kmh. Then I rested for 15min. On average, I used more oxygen than the previous test candidates. (cos iron deficient)
The last test was VO2max. That involved running on the treadmill at a constant speed, but the elevation would be increased by 1.0 every (I think) 1-2min, until the point of surrender. It was meant to be a tough test, pushed to the limit. The researchers were shouting encouraging remarks throughout the test. I managed to hit 6.0 or 7.0 (didn't see clearly) before cutting the test. At which point I was really huffing and puffing. Whew!
We would not be getting the test results until after the marathon. Can't wait to see what my report card says!
Anyway, off to a quick shower and meet Lee for a belated birthday dinner at Hooha Cafe off Pasir Panjang Village. It was well known for its succulent steak, and it certainly did not disappoint. :)
First, I had to do a fat-pinch measurement. The researcher (I think he's German or Swiss) marked litte crosses on my biceps, triceps, waist, quads and calves. Then he had a caliper device to pinch the flesh on those areas and measured them. He repeated 2-3 times.
Next up, lactate threshold treadmill test. I put on a face mask that measured the amount of oxygen intake (or something). The aim was to run for 3min intervals. Every 3min, I would straddle the treadmill while a researcher pricked my little finger to get 2 lactic acid readings, and another upped the speed by 0.5kmh. There was also an exertion chart that I pointed at to indicate the level of hardness of my workout. The aim was to find the point of inflexion where the amount of lactic acid in the body started to spike, a sharp increase. I started at 8.5kmh and gradually went up to 12 or 12.5kmh (can't recall). I think my threshold point was around 11.5/ 12kmh. Then I rested for 15min. On average, I used more oxygen than the previous test candidates. (cos iron deficient)
The last test was VO2max. That involved running on the treadmill at a constant speed, but the elevation would be increased by 1.0 every (I think) 1-2min, until the point of surrender. It was meant to be a tough test, pushed to the limit. The researchers were shouting encouraging remarks throughout the test. I managed to hit 6.0 or 7.0 (didn't see clearly) before cutting the test. At which point I was really huffing and puffing. Whew!
We would not be getting the test results until after the marathon. Can't wait to see what my report card says!
Anyway, off to a quick shower and meet Lee for a belated birthday dinner at Hooha Cafe off Pasir Panjang Village. It was well known for its succulent steak, and it certainly did not disappoint. :)
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Procrastinating Stairs
I admit, I procrastinated. I doodled and pottered around office and basically procrastinated on my stairs training. When I finally dragged myself to the much dreaded Blk 21, it was almost 830pm. I started on the steps, painfully, wearily. Today's sets took, on average, longer than last week. By the 4th set, I was quite poofed. Luckily I bumped into Joanne on the 5th set, so we did our last few sets together. We completed 8 sets. Whew! It certainly helped to have company nearby, or I would have bailed out after 6 sets. *sheepish grin*
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Bt Timah Trail Sauna
I took my pair of brand new Leki Makalu Ultralite anti-shock trekking poles to Bt Timah Nature Reserve (BTNR) for training. They were my birthday present from a bunch of great friends, and really came in handy now because I misplaced my existing ones.
It was my first time back at BTNR in 1.5 years, gosh! I hoped I remembered the routes and circuits. To save time (because it was already noon, oops!) and up the intensity, I decided to do 3 sets of the same steps, followed by a loop. I had a new Halo headband on my forehead and it did a terrific job of keeping away the sweat and hair from my face. The amount of perspiration from stairs and trek training was amazing (coming from someone who sweats minimally). I was toxically drenched in no time.
Training
Summit Path x 3sets - Fresh and perky
Rengas Path x 3sets - Lactic started to set in, legs turning into jelly
Jungle Fall Path x 3sets - Low sugar, legs turning into stone
Dairy Farm Loop - More wooden steps!
My legs were jellied and shoulders ached by the end of it all. My 15-16kg backpack now felt like a 18-20kg pack, pressing down against my shoulder blades and back. My Marmot pack hip belt was tightened to the max, and so were the shoulder straps. Ouch, there was a slight abrasion on my hip.
It was my first time back at BTNR in 1.5 years, gosh! I hoped I remembered the routes and circuits. To save time (because it was already noon, oops!) and up the intensity, I decided to do 3 sets of the same steps, followed by a loop. I had a new Halo headband on my forehead and it did a terrific job of keeping away the sweat and hair from my face. The amount of perspiration from stairs and trek training was amazing (coming from someone who sweats minimally). I was toxically drenched in no time.
Training
Summit Path x 3sets - Fresh and perky
Rengas Path x 3sets - Lactic started to set in, legs turning into jelly
Jungle Fall Path x 3sets - Low sugar, legs turning into stone
Dairy Farm Loop - More wooden steps!
My legs were jellied and shoulders ached by the end of it all. My 15-16kg backpack now felt like a 18-20kg pack, pressing down against my shoulder blades and back. My Marmot pack hip belt was tightened to the max, and so were the shoulder straps. Ouch, there was a slight abrasion on my hip.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
FatBird Pacer Training
This morning Alber and I joined in the FatBird pacer training for a 28km run at ECP Big Splash. I donned my Asics shoes (had to continue Thursday's shoe trial experiment) and led the 5hr runners. There were 2 guys, and the 3 of us ran as a group all the way. During the run, I did a quick mental calculation. 5hr = 7min pace = 196min (3:16h) for 28km = 98min at the 14km u-turn point. I was not wearing my footpod and went by feel. The run started off nice and comfortable. I think our pace was just nice, we had 1-2 mis-turns on some of the forked paths, but managed to reachthe u-turn point along Coastal Road with about 10min to spare for some stretching. I saw various people along the way - Swee Kheng, Henry (Kops), Fennel, Hee Shen & his wife, Lixia, and KC on his bike.
We continued on our way back, and stopped again at Carpark G toilet to refill water. We were still on schedule with about 7 - 7.5km to Big Splash. When we reached F2 (the bougainvilla garden), one of the guys dropped back and asked us to go ahead. The 5:15h pacers were too fast and were beside us, so we got their help to accompany the guy. So I ran with the remaining guy and we paced each other all the way back. We had to pick up speed a little as there was no buffer left for breaks. I think the guy could have gone faster, but he held back a little for my sake. At 25km, my left knee felt a warm flush of pain so I could not speed up. Yet I could not stop either. We finally made it back to Big Splash. 3:21h. I guess the pace was just about right, taking away the traffic lights and stretch breaks. Time for a good warm down stretch and brunch at Old Airport Road to refuel.
We continued on our way back, and stopped again at Carpark G toilet to refill water. We were still on schedule with about 7 - 7.5km to Big Splash. When we reached F2 (the bougainvilla garden), one of the guys dropped back and asked us to go ahead. The 5:15h pacers were too fast and were beside us, so we got their help to accompany the guy. So I ran with the remaining guy and we paced each other all the way back. We had to pick up speed a little as there was no buffer left for breaks. I think the guy could have gone faster, but he held back a little for my sake. At 25km, my left knee felt a warm flush of pain so I could not speed up. Yet I could not stop either. We finally made it back to Big Splash. 3:21h. I guess the pace was just about right, taking away the traffic lights and stretch breaks. Time for a good warm down stretch and brunch at Old Airport Road to refuel.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Swim class
Swim class today had relatively few attendance. We did buoy-kick, side rows several times, punches, and then sprint 50m x 8 times. Whew. We ended with 400m and 300m slow swim. The sprints were quite a killer. So cold and famished after that. Brrr.......
Thursday, November 13, 2008
FatBird iRun & Nike Air Zooms
I joined Fatbird for the i-Run tonight at River Promenade (outside the Fat Bird statue). It was the first time I joined in their run. Esther (Passion), Ronnie, Anthony, DO, and Roslyn were there. Good to see them again!
My main purpose was to test my pacer Nike shoes tonight. I was issued a pair of Nike Structured Triax, with Air Zoom soles. When I used them last week at Canterbury loop, my hip felt really strained. I had to stop several times to stretch my right ITB. My left knee was also inflammed after the run.
So I had to do a controlled experiment to verify if it was the shoes or me (having just returned from a long flight). I managed to race through Powerman that weekend with my Mizuno runners. On Tuesday, I wore my Asics for another trial around Canterbury. My quads and calves were aching big-time from Powerman, yet knee and hip felt ok after run, and there was little inflammation.
Today I decided to test the Nikes again. I had a physio session in the afternoon, so I was all 'set' rightly. After 26min, my hips felt strained and my knee ached again. Then the pain eased. But at 50min, it returned. Hmmm.... I had a similarly bad experience with a pair of Nike Elite Air Zoom shoes 5 years ago. My ITB would tighten after 5km without fail on each run. I dunked those shoes. Since then, I dared not use Nike running shoes (Nike tennis shoes were ok). Until now. And the prognosis still looked bleak....
My main purpose was to test my pacer Nike shoes tonight. I was issued a pair of Nike Structured Triax, with Air Zoom soles. When I used them last week at Canterbury loop, my hip felt really strained. I had to stop several times to stretch my right ITB. My left knee was also inflammed after the run.
So I had to do a controlled experiment to verify if it was the shoes or me (having just returned from a long flight). I managed to race through Powerman that weekend with my Mizuno runners. On Tuesday, I wore my Asics for another trial around Canterbury. My quads and calves were aching big-time from Powerman, yet knee and hip felt ok after run, and there was little inflammation.
Today I decided to test the Nikes again. I had a physio session in the afternoon, so I was all 'set' rightly. After 26min, my hips felt strained and my knee ached again. Then the pain eased. But at 50min, it returned. Hmmm.... I had a similarly bad experience with a pair of Nike Elite Air Zoom shoes 5 years ago. My ITB would tighten after 5km without fail on each run. I dunked those shoes. Since then, I dared not use Nike running shoes (Nike tennis shoes were ok). Until now. And the prognosis still looked bleak....
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Staircase Training
I finally resumed my long deferred staircase training. I am officially in panic mode, with my climbing expedition less than a month away. Gosh! I packed my backpack last night, stuffed it about 14-15kg. It had been more than 1 year since I last climbed staircase. Deja vu! The 30-storeyed Tiong Bahru flats, with the familiar bicycles and laundry in the stairwells. There was a family on the 3rd floor cooking dinner. First round, the wafts of freshly steamed rice assailed my nose. Second round, I sniffed fried fish.
There were 2 stairwells, so our common training practice was to alternate the stairwell so that we would not be 'turning' on the same leg all the way. I spied 2 large bottles of ice cold mineral water bottles on the 30th floor. Ahh, one of the girls should be training as well. True enough, I bumped into Jane and Yihui. It was nice to see some faces on the boring stairs!
It rained non-stop and the weather was thankfully cool tonight. By my 2nd round, I was totally drenched in sweat. It was like being in a sauna! I managed 8 sets of stairs tonight, and was super famished. Time to head home for a warm dinner.
There were 2 stairwells, so our common training practice was to alternate the stairwell so that we would not be 'turning' on the same leg all the way. I spied 2 large bottles of ice cold mineral water bottles on the 30th floor. Ahh, one of the girls should be training as well. True enough, I bumped into Jane and Yihui. It was nice to see some faces on the boring stairs!
It rained non-stop and the weather was thankfully cool tonight. By my 2nd round, I was totally drenched in sweat. It was like being in a sauna! I managed 8 sets of stairs tonight, and was super famished. Time to head home for a warm dinner.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Recovery Run & Bday Dinner #1
I went to Safra for a recovery run. Legs were so sore and aching from Powerman. I must be getting worse...... taking so long to recover from a race?! I did a very very slow Canterbury loop and returned from Henderson.
Eddie, Alvin, Karen came for the run, so we hastily arranged a dinner after the run with Sumiko and JD as well. It turned out to be great company. Karen got a chocolate ice-cream cake from Swensons, and a bright orange balloon! We had overdose of tze char food at Holland Village, and Henry and his wife, Lucille, joined in too. Everyone was talking excitedly about the recent Powerman and trading past race 'war stories'. Hilarious.
Eddie, Alvin, Karen came for the run, so we hastily arranged a dinner after the run with Sumiko and JD as well. It turned out to be great company. Karen got a chocolate ice-cream cake from Swensons, and a bright orange balloon! We had overdose of tze char food at Holland Village, and Henry and his wife, Lucille, joined in too. Everyone was talking excitedly about the recent Powerman and trading past race 'war stories'. Hilarious.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Powerman Malaysia 2008
Powerman Malaysia, Lumut, Perak (9 Nov 2008)
http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/PowermanMalaysia9Nov2008#
Pre-race
We reached our hotel, Oriental Star, in Lumut earlier this year, as compared to last year. The unloading of bicycles and wheels was a lot more systematic too, having gained experience the last round. We had breakfast, checked-in, and washed up. As before, Melody from the organizers came to our hotel to issue our race packs and conduct the race briefing. Then we had 2 buses to bring us to the stadium race site, to look at the race expo and start/ transition area. That was followed by a heavy seafood lunch, and a trip to Giant supermarket to buy our breakfast, water and so forth. At night we met Snr Chua and Sok Hwa, and we drove to Kg Cina (where we went in the morning, and where all the Chinese restaurants were) for dinner. We chose a restaurant nearby our lunch venue, and saw other groups of Singapore racers there. Even the race organizers were there as well! The food was fresher and nicer than lunch.
Race-Day
We met at 5.45am to load our luggage and then rode off around 6.30am to the start point. It was a 8km leisure ride, and many were in the transition area when we arrived. I was apprehensive and jittery about my run/ knee. Oh well, just grit through the race. Sandy's transition pit was next to mine, our surnames (Siew & Sim) ensured we were usually near each other during races.
First 11km run. I ran fairly fast by my standard, 1hr exactly. It was cloudy and shady, good weather for now. I spotted couples running together, side by side. How sweet. Jessica and Ken. Sylvia and can't-remember-his-name. I entered the bike transition, Eddie was slightly behind but he rode out faster. I took my time to change my shoes and munch on the powerbar. Argh, the ankle timing chip strap caused abrasion and it bled onto my sock and shoe.
Cycle 64km. It was the same route as last year. 2 loops of 32km (or 4 sets of 16km up and down the same road). There were 3 bridges to clear. The first was a baby one, then a slightly longer and steeper one, and finally the last one that loomed in your face even from afar. Weird, I did not really feel the bridges last year, they did not seem as imtimidating.... Anyway, look down, change gear, keep pace and climb the slopes. I felt so unconditioned for the ride. My left problematic knee felt more acute pain on the ride, than run. Now I wondered which triggered the injury - run or bike? By 45km (just before the last u-turn) climbing the 3rd long bridge, my thighs almost cramped. Ok that was no good. It meant I would suffer on the run. Easy easy, would be disastrous if I cramped on an upslope and fell off. The last 16km of the ride went by slowly, trying not to cramp.
Run 10km. Two loops of 5km. The run was bad. 5min out of transition on the road, and both quads cramped. I could not move, and just stood on the road and massaging my legs. It hurt. I could not recall the last time I had a cramp and forgot what it felt like. :( Many familiar faces passed me, and they were on their 2nd run laps already. Grace, Jess & Ken, Kristal, Sok Hwa, and so many. Oh damn. After 15min of slow walk, I could finally trot again. I took 45min to clear the first 5km. Argh. The sun was out and it was terribly terribly hot. I was mentally so lazy to run the 2nd loop, strolling a lot. Li Xia overtook me too, I tried to keep sight of her, but she just went non-stop. Then I spotted Chin Yeh walking in front of me. By then, the aim was to budget my time exactly so that I could get back just under the 5h cut-off. Races this year end were no good at all. Each event barely scrapping the cut-off time limit. Last year I had a lot of time clearance to spare, and did not even feel as tired. Every part of the legs threatened to cramp - quads, calves, shins, toes....
Finally made it in 4:58h. Hmmm, maybe the 2nd race was always worst than the first time? It was delightful to get a cold wet towel and ice-cold water after the race. But sadly, they did not have decent finisher tees. What was it with races that made all the tees look like over-sized pyjamas, which one would not even wear to bed?! We showered at the public changing rooms at the stadium, ahhh that was the best part of the race. The post-race award lunch was much better this year in terms of quality and quantity (last year, they ran severely out of food). The buses were late and we waited for a long time at the car park. One of the participants, Li Xia, had heat exhaustion and was sent to the hospital for saline drip. Luckily she recovered in time and returned to join us for the bus ride home. By the time we loaded everything and left the stadium, it was 4pm. We stopped at MacDonalds to pack some food before the start of the long ride.
We reached Singapore Lavender terminal around 1.45am. Gosh, such a long day. Unloading the bicycles and driving home took some time. By the time I unpacked and got to bed, it was 4am. Yawn.... why go through the pain of the journey and race at all, when all I did was scrap the cut-off time? Such gluttony for pain.......
http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/PowermanMalaysia9Nov2008#
Pre-race
We reached our hotel, Oriental Star, in Lumut earlier this year, as compared to last year. The unloading of bicycles and wheels was a lot more systematic too, having gained experience the last round. We had breakfast, checked-in, and washed up. As before, Melody from the organizers came to our hotel to issue our race packs and conduct the race briefing. Then we had 2 buses to bring us to the stadium race site, to look at the race expo and start/ transition area. That was followed by a heavy seafood lunch, and a trip to Giant supermarket to buy our breakfast, water and so forth. At night we met Snr Chua and Sok Hwa, and we drove to Kg Cina (where we went in the morning, and where all the Chinese restaurants were) for dinner. We chose a restaurant nearby our lunch venue, and saw other groups of Singapore racers there. Even the race organizers were there as well! The food was fresher and nicer than lunch.
Race-Day
We met at 5.45am to load our luggage and then rode off around 6.30am to the start point. It was a 8km leisure ride, and many were in the transition area when we arrived. I was apprehensive and jittery about my run/ knee. Oh well, just grit through the race. Sandy's transition pit was next to mine, our surnames (Siew & Sim) ensured we were usually near each other during races.
First 11km run. I ran fairly fast by my standard, 1hr exactly. It was cloudy and shady, good weather for now. I spotted couples running together, side by side. How sweet. Jessica and Ken. Sylvia and can't-remember-his-name. I entered the bike transition, Eddie was slightly behind but he rode out faster. I took my time to change my shoes and munch on the powerbar. Argh, the ankle timing chip strap caused abrasion and it bled onto my sock and shoe.
Cycle 64km. It was the same route as last year. 2 loops of 32km (or 4 sets of 16km up and down the same road). There were 3 bridges to clear. The first was a baby one, then a slightly longer and steeper one, and finally the last one that loomed in your face even from afar. Weird, I did not really feel the bridges last year, they did not seem as imtimidating.... Anyway, look down, change gear, keep pace and climb the slopes. I felt so unconditioned for the ride. My left problematic knee felt more acute pain on the ride, than run. Now I wondered which triggered the injury - run or bike? By 45km (just before the last u-turn) climbing the 3rd long bridge, my thighs almost cramped. Ok that was no good. It meant I would suffer on the run. Easy easy, would be disastrous if I cramped on an upslope and fell off. The last 16km of the ride went by slowly, trying not to cramp.
Run 10km. Two loops of 5km. The run was bad. 5min out of transition on the road, and both quads cramped. I could not move, and just stood on the road and massaging my legs. It hurt. I could not recall the last time I had a cramp and forgot what it felt like. :( Many familiar faces passed me, and they were on their 2nd run laps already. Grace, Jess & Ken, Kristal, Sok Hwa, and so many. Oh damn. After 15min of slow walk, I could finally trot again. I took 45min to clear the first 5km. Argh. The sun was out and it was terribly terribly hot. I was mentally so lazy to run the 2nd loop, strolling a lot. Li Xia overtook me too, I tried to keep sight of her, but she just went non-stop. Then I spotted Chin Yeh walking in front of me. By then, the aim was to budget my time exactly so that I could get back just under the 5h cut-off. Races this year end were no good at all. Each event barely scrapping the cut-off time limit. Last year I had a lot of time clearance to spare, and did not even feel as tired. Every part of the legs threatened to cramp - quads, calves, shins, toes....
Finally made it in 4:58h. Hmmm, maybe the 2nd race was always worst than the first time? It was delightful to get a cold wet towel and ice-cold water after the race. But sadly, they did not have decent finisher tees. What was it with races that made all the tees look like over-sized pyjamas, which one would not even wear to bed?! We showered at the public changing rooms at the stadium, ahhh that was the best part of the race. The post-race award lunch was much better this year in terms of quality and quantity (last year, they ran severely out of food). The buses were late and we waited for a long time at the car park. One of the participants, Li Xia, had heat exhaustion and was sent to the hospital for saline drip. Luckily she recovered in time and returned to join us for the bus ride home. By the time we loaded everything and left the stadium, it was 4pm. We stopped at MacDonalds to pack some food before the start of the long ride.
We reached Singapore Lavender terminal around 1.45am. Gosh, such a long day. Unloading the bicycles and driving home took some time. By the time I unpacked and got to bed, it was 4am. Yawn.... why go through the pain of the journey and race at all, when all I did was scrap the cut-off time? Such gluttony for pain.......
Friday, November 7, 2008
Swim and Lumut, Here we come!
I went for swim class tonight. My 1st swim after 2 weeks' break, it was super refreshing. Very delighted that I could sustain a 4-breath-1-pull for a lap (I normally breathe on every 2 strokes). We did some drills. Too long never swim, forgot how to do side kick. Oops. We did 4-breath, then we did 2-4-6-breath-1-pull. That was quite fun. Then we did 6 sets of 100m moderate, and 6 sets of 50m sprint. It was supposed to be 8 sprints, but we negotiated for a discount. :)
There were not many people in class today. Most were going up to Powerman tonight, so they did an earlier class in the week. I could not do a make-up class, having just returned from Europe. Anyhow, the plan was to rush home at 9pm, grab 2 bicylces, load up and drive to the coach terminal in Lavender by 10pm. Ambitious. In-between that, I was stuffing in mouthfuls of rice and lup-cheong (chinese sausages). Mental flash - why do I keep packing stressing myself like that?
I made it to Lavender a little late. My dad drove the car back, but I had forgotten to unload the bicycle pump and my house keys from the car! So he had to drive around again. Many passengers were there already and we quickly loaded the bicycles and gear. We had more than doubled our group size this year. Last year we went in 2 buses. This year, a total of 5 buses! I was surprised to see an entire busload of Yellowfish swim-mates. Soon we were on our way..... that annual 9h 'pilgrimage' to Powerman.
There were not many people in class today. Most were going up to Powerman tonight, so they did an earlier class in the week. I could not do a make-up class, having just returned from Europe. Anyhow, the plan was to rush home at 9pm, grab 2 bicylces, load up and drive to the coach terminal in Lavender by 10pm. Ambitious. In-between that, I was stuffing in mouthfuls of rice and lup-cheong (chinese sausages). Mental flash - why do I keep packing stressing myself like that?
I made it to Lavender a little late. My dad drove the car back, but I had forgotten to unload the bicycle pump and my house keys from the car! So he had to drive around again. Many passengers were there already and we quickly loaded the bicycles and gear. We had more than doubled our group size this year. Last year we went in 2 buses. This year, a total of 5 buses! I was surprised to see an entire busload of Yellowfish swim-mates. Soon we were on our way..... that annual 9h 'pilgrimage' to Powerman.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
9h Bus Ride
I went for Andrew's RPM Challenge tonight. Everyone commented that I'd lost weight. I think the Europe trip did some damage and accounted for a 2kg loss. Just stick me (or anyone else) in a cold climate with rabbit nibbles for 10 days and I guarantee a visible effect.
Hip and back were not feeling great. Probably the result of 12hours cooped in eco-no-my return flight. Back strain pulled on the hip. Felt a discomfort during Tuesday's run. OMG, this year is indeed turning out to be an injury-prone year, as predicted by my Chinese horoscope. Really?
Wanted to go for acupuncture, but the clinic was closed by the time I rushed over. Drats. And I had another long journey this weekend up to Perak for Powerman race. 9h cooped on the bus, albeit slightly bigger than plane seats. But hey, I always preferred the plane seats, more attuned to my size. Anyhow, 9h.... it suddenly dawned on me that I could have gone beyond Japan, and 3/4-way to Europe in that time! Coupled with the return 9h, I would have reached San Francisco! Right..... [PS muses to herself and stares dreamily at the world map......]
Hip and back were not feeling great. Probably the result of 12hours cooped in eco-no-my return flight. Back strain pulled on the hip. Felt a discomfort during Tuesday's run. OMG, this year is indeed turning out to be an injury-prone year, as predicted by my Chinese horoscope. Really?
Wanted to go for acupuncture, but the clinic was closed by the time I rushed over. Drats. And I had another long journey this weekend up to Perak for Powerman race. 9h cooped on the bus, albeit slightly bigger than plane seats. But hey, I always preferred the plane seats, more attuned to my size. Anyhow, 9h.... it suddenly dawned on me that I could have gone beyond Japan, and 3/4-way to Europe in that time! Coupled with the return 9h, I would have reached San Francisco! Right..... [PS muses to herself and stares dreamily at the world map......]
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Recovery Run
It was good to be back in the company of running friends after a long break. I did a slow run with Alber in Canterbury estate, while the rest had their Labrador interval training. It was a really slow jog for him, he had to wait several times for me to stretch along the way. My knee had not fully recovered, it was visibly swollen below the knee cap after an hour's run. Hmmm.... Obviously there was still some internal irritation that caused the slight inflammation.
We went for dinner at Henderson. Had a good time catching up and chatting with the runners. Ahh, it was good to be home.
We went for dinner at Henderson. Had a good time catching up and chatting with the runners. Ahh, it was good to be home.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Back in humid Singapore
Back to Singapore last night. The weather kicked me in the face at Changi Airport. The blast of humid dense air made it difficult to breathe, after the crisp cool air in Helsinki. The return flight was full, which meant I was stuck to an upright chair in the Economy sardine class for a straight 12h. Thankfully it was an SQ flight and not a Lufthansa operated one, so the seats had a slightly wider pitch, and service was good. I drank some wine and tried to sleep. Amazingly, it was the first time on a flight that I had difficulty falling asleep.
Today, my car air-con was turned full-blast. Walking out for lunch, I was convinced that we would not have that quality of life X-factor that Singapore so aimed for as long as the hot and humid weather was in our face. A huge contrast to the four seasoned-weather in Switzerland and Finland, where even children's playground looked more enjoyable, and people walked everywhere and used the public transport simply because it was efficient, reliable and comfortable. Heavens forbid that a bus ride should feel cold in winter! Incidentally, I rode in my friend Sylvia's BMW in Zurich. The heater warms up the seat delivers a nice comfortable gradual warmth to one's important bottom. Lovely!
I went for RPM Challenge tonight. Legs were fresh after 1 full week's rest after Lucerne Marathon. The air was rich but somehow the lungs felt like it required extra effort to filter out the oxygen. Met KM, Michelle and KC for dinner and catch-up about training for marathon. I must try to sleep early tonight and overcome the delayed jetlag.
Today, my car air-con was turned full-blast. Walking out for lunch, I was convinced that we would not have that quality of life X-factor that Singapore so aimed for as long as the hot and humid weather was in our face. A huge contrast to the four seasoned-weather in Switzerland and Finland, where even children's playground looked more enjoyable, and people walked everywhere and used the public transport simply because it was efficient, reliable and comfortable. Heavens forbid that a bus ride should feel cold in winter! Incidentally, I rode in my friend Sylvia's BMW in Zurich. The heater warms up the seat delivers a nice comfortable gradual warmth to one's important bottom. Lovely!
I went for RPM Challenge tonight. Legs were fresh after 1 full week's rest after Lucerne Marathon. The air was rich but somehow the lungs felt like it required extra effort to filter out the oxygen. Met KM, Michelle and KC for dinner and catch-up about training for marathon. I must try to sleep early tonight and overcome the delayed jetlag.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
On Women and Values
The middle-aged (30ish) to elderly (60ish) women I had met on this Europe trip were very interesting. Most of them were fiercely independent, valued their freedom (should I say guarded it zealously) and had little or no intention to get married. Different women had told me in essentially the same words - Do what I want, when I want, without having to wait for or answer to others.
Almost all of them had been married before, and they told me that nonchalantly, as one would announce the number of sibling one has. Most had live-in male partners, and happy with that no-strings-attached arrangement. Many were 'cougars' - older independent women dating younger men. Only one was planning a wedding next year, after living with her much-older partner for 7 years. I was told that in Finland, children borned to 'unmarried' couples were legally recognized and 'tied' to the natural father who would be responsible for them.
And then, there was another group of women. Women of leisure, married or living with rich old tycoons. These well-maintained ladies lived a jet-setting lifestyle of luxury, courtesy of their partners who travelled a lot for business. For this group, the art of subtle deference, playing the perfect hosts with small talk that made one feel like long lost friend, making gently intelligent conversations without usurping their partners, lovingly nudging their partners.... it was an art that captured their strong feminity yet vulnerability, and I was sure men were enchanted by that. So too, I met a couple of much older men who were living with younger women.
I was enthralled by what I observed during my short stay and through conversations with the residents in a non-tourist interaction. There was a part of the new womenomics movement that appealed to me. And then there was a more traditional women culture that fascinated me.
Almost all of them had been married before, and they told me that nonchalantly, as one would announce the number of sibling one has. Most had live-in male partners, and happy with that no-strings-attached arrangement. Many were 'cougars' - older independent women dating younger men. Only one was planning a wedding next year, after living with her much-older partner for 7 years. I was told that in Finland, children borned to 'unmarried' couples were legally recognized and 'tied' to the natural father who would be responsible for them.
And then, there was another group of women. Women of leisure, married or living with rich old tycoons. These well-maintained ladies lived a jet-setting lifestyle of luxury, courtesy of their partners who travelled a lot for business. For this group, the art of subtle deference, playing the perfect hosts with small talk that made one feel like long lost friend, making gently intelligent conversations without usurping their partners, lovingly nudging their partners.... it was an art that captured their strong feminity yet vulnerability, and I was sure men were enchanted by that. So too, I met a couple of much older men who were living with younger women.
I was enthralled by what I observed during my short stay and through conversations with the residents in a non-tourist interaction. There was a part of the new womenomics movement that appealed to me. And then there was a more traditional women culture that fascinated me.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Futuring Work in Finland
Meetings in Helsinki were helpfully arranged by Leena Imola, a partner at Fountain Park. She had an on-going project with us in Singapore and helped to set up various meetings within the Finn futuring community - public administration and academics. It was unfortunate that we did not manage to secure meetings with the private companies - many were too coy and humble about their futuring/ foresights efforts. I met with SITRA, TEKES, TEM (Finnish Ministry of Employment and Economy (equivalent of my unit)), Finland Futures Research Centre, and a senior advisor to the Parliamentary Committee for the Future, and some research work done by Fountain Park.
In essence, Finland has a well-entrenched and structure futuring model. It was started by a few champions, who introduced the concept to the government, which was later endorsed into a permanent structure within the Finn Parliamentary system. Their public administration has many trained and qualified futurists, examining and churning out reports on various aspects of society, as directed by the government. Finland also has a growing community of private sector futuring companies/ consultants, and company-based activities supported by various industry associations. The academia and volumes of research work bridges the two sectors, and there is a thriving network of foresights practitioners interacting with one another.
Much of the Finn foresights work focuses on innovation, science and technology. As Leena observed, the Finns' output was largely positive, highlighting opportunities, unlike say UK, which focuses more on risk assessments. Singapore was in some ways similar, looking ahead to the future in search of new opportunities rather than focusing on threats. However, the Finns' futuring perspective was typically more inward-looking (tackling societal issues, integration of S&T with culture, youth values etc), rather than casting a global view.
In essence, Finland has a well-entrenched and structure futuring model. It was started by a few champions, who introduced the concept to the government, which was later endorsed into a permanent structure within the Finn Parliamentary system. Their public administration has many trained and qualified futurists, examining and churning out reports on various aspects of society, as directed by the government. Finland also has a growing community of private sector futuring companies/ consultants, and company-based activities supported by various industry associations. The academia and volumes of research work bridges the two sectors, and there is a thriving network of foresights practitioners interacting with one another.
Much of the Finn foresights work focuses on innovation, science and technology. As Leena observed, the Finns' output was largely positive, highlighting opportunities, unlike say UK, which focuses more on risk assessments. Singapore was in some ways similar, looking ahead to the future in search of new opportunities rather than focusing on threats. However, the Finns' futuring perspective was typically more inward-looking (tackling societal issues, integration of S&T with culture, youth values etc), rather than casting a global view.
Helsinki in 3 Days
http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/EuropeTripHelsinki29Oct1Nov2008
Helsinki weather was grey and gloomy. Sunshine was 8am to 4pm daily. It was really depressing when it got dark, and cold. The winds were so strong on one night that I had to fight it really hard to walk forward.
So for 3 evenings, all I could do was hit the malls after my meetings ended and it was pitch dark. Luckily most of the shops close at 9pm so there was still life and buzz after office hours (unlike Lucerne, which fell asleep after 6pm). I checked out the shops and compared prices. Things were still expensive, despite the fall in Euro. I had wanted to buy a pair of Oakley snow goggles for mountaineering use, but alas the shop assistants could not find the key to unlock the display cupboard! In the end I got a pair of much cheaper Bolle. I guess they would work as well.
Winter gear was in full display at the shops. I had to greatly resist the temptation to buy yet more winter jackets, of which I would have absolute no use for in Singapore. Zara had nice contemporary designs. Ecco leather boots were more much expensive than in Singapore. And many local and European labels were found in Helsinki.
Food was a nightmare. Cheapest was MacDonalds, seriously. Next was cold sandwich (panini or some baguette bread, with cold cut ham and cheese). Then came kebabs and Chinese takeouts, at least those were hot food. Followed by the dine-in restaurants of course. Finn cuisine was a LOT of smoked everything..... fish was the hot favourite. Due to the cold winters, where things could be kept fresh for a long time, there was little need to use spices to season the food and musk any dour tastes. Rather, put salt or smoke them and they would keep fine.
Thankfully on the last day, the weather cleared up and there was some sunlight. It was nice to feel the warm rays on my face, while the wind blew up a substantial wind chill. Leena took me for a stroll by the coastal marina - I think I had been there before. Well, on my 1st visit to Helsinki, I pretty much walked 20km around the entire city. After she left me for the day, I continued my exploration to familiar sights. I was pleased that I still knew my way around the city. A new place I went to during this trip was a cemetery park by the sea. It was a tranquil place, befitting of an ancestral resting grounds. Today was All Saints' Day - a day to remember ancestors. So all the shops were closed, and there were many observances at various cathedrals. Tombstones were dutifully cleaned, and candles lit. Reluctantly, I ended my stroll in Helsinki. There were still so many lakes and parks to absorb, but it was time to go home.....
Helsinki weather was grey and gloomy. Sunshine was 8am to 4pm daily. It was really depressing when it got dark, and cold. The winds were so strong on one night that I had to fight it really hard to walk forward.
So for 3 evenings, all I could do was hit the malls after my meetings ended and it was pitch dark. Luckily most of the shops close at 9pm so there was still life and buzz after office hours (unlike Lucerne, which fell asleep after 6pm). I checked out the shops and compared prices. Things were still expensive, despite the fall in Euro. I had wanted to buy a pair of Oakley snow goggles for mountaineering use, but alas the shop assistants could not find the key to unlock the display cupboard! In the end I got a pair of much cheaper Bolle. I guess they would work as well.
Winter gear was in full display at the shops. I had to greatly resist the temptation to buy yet more winter jackets, of which I would have absolute no use for in Singapore. Zara had nice contemporary designs. Ecco leather boots were more much expensive than in Singapore. And many local and European labels were found in Helsinki.
Food was a nightmare. Cheapest was MacDonalds, seriously. Next was cold sandwich (panini or some baguette bread, with cold cut ham and cheese). Then came kebabs and Chinese takeouts, at least those were hot food. Followed by the dine-in restaurants of course. Finn cuisine was a LOT of smoked everything..... fish was the hot favourite. Due to the cold winters, where things could be kept fresh for a long time, there was little need to use spices to season the food and musk any dour tastes. Rather, put salt or smoke them and they would keep fine.
Thankfully on the last day, the weather cleared up and there was some sunlight. It was nice to feel the warm rays on my face, while the wind blew up a substantial wind chill. Leena took me for a stroll by the coastal marina - I think I had been there before. Well, on my 1st visit to Helsinki, I pretty much walked 20km around the entire city. After she left me for the day, I continued my exploration to familiar sights. I was pleased that I still knew my way around the city. A new place I went to during this trip was a cemetery park by the sea. It was a tranquil place, befitting of an ancestral resting grounds. Today was All Saints' Day - a day to remember ancestors. So all the shops were closed, and there were many observances at various cathedrals. Tombstones were dutifully cleaned, and candles lit. Reluctantly, I ended my stroll in Helsinki. There were still so many lakes and parks to absorb, but it was time to go home.....
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Over to Helsinki
Sylvia made me breakfast. Sunny-side up eggs! How lovely. Everything was either home-made (organic) or fresh from the farms. The eggs had such nice cheerful runny yellow yolks. The jam was made by Sylvia using her own garden harvest. The butter was made directly in the farm using very fresh ingredients. Drool!
I rushed to the train station thereafter to collect my luggage, and then took a train to the airport for my flight to Helsinki. After much frantic airport shopping and checking in, I made it to the plane. Whew.
The weather was wet and gloomy in Helsinki. I guessed I would not have any chance to jog around the lake on this trip. Sunlight was from 8am - 4pm and it soon turned pitch dark.
I rushed to the train station thereafter to collect my luggage, and then took a train to the airport for my flight to Helsinki. After much frantic airport shopping and checking in, I made it to the plane. Whew.
The weather was wet and gloomy in Helsinki. I guessed I would not have any chance to jog around the lake on this trip. Sunlight was from 8am - 4pm and it soon turned pitch dark.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Back in Zurich
http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/EuropeTripZurichLucerne2429Oct2008#
I took a train to Zurich after the conference ended. Unfortunately, Sylvia's heating system in the house had broken down - no heated rooms and no hot water shower, and she was apologetic that the place would be cold. Everything that ensued was unplanned. She asked Bob to pick me from the train station. Then Bob took me to the public lockers to deposit my luggage (instead of dragging them around half the town), and we went grocery shopping. He was having a surgery tomorrow and had to buy meals for the next few days. We then took a bus to meet his friends - David and Litas - whom we were having dinner with. They lived in a very very old, conserved apartment building that was built in the 14th century. Even the wooden beams that ran across the ceiling were preserved and very old. The apartment was in the Old Town part of Zurich and very conveniently located to many shops. However, it did not have any lifts. David lived on the highest floor (4th?), so imagine having to lug all the suitcases up and down tiny wooden steps every time they made a trip, which was very very often.
We met Sylvia for dinner at a nice restaurant. All of them knew each other, and belonged to different parts of the funds and banking industry. I sensed a lot of old rich money, and a lifestyle that I merely read about, but was not privy too. Yet they were very humble and down-to-earth people, despite having much wealth and sophisticated tastes for the good life. That night, I left my luggage at the train station (having to return anyway the next morning). I slept on a lamb's wool base padding, put on one of Sylvia's old cashmere sweater, and covered myself with two thick duvets. And I snoozed like a log in the warmth while it rained outside.....
I took a train to Zurich after the conference ended. Unfortunately, Sylvia's heating system in the house had broken down - no heated rooms and no hot water shower, and she was apologetic that the place would be cold. Everything that ensued was unplanned. She asked Bob to pick me from the train station. Then Bob took me to the public lockers to deposit my luggage (instead of dragging them around half the town), and we went grocery shopping. He was having a surgery tomorrow and had to buy meals for the next few days. We then took a bus to meet his friends - David and Litas - whom we were having dinner with. They lived in a very very old, conserved apartment building that was built in the 14th century. Even the wooden beams that ran across the ceiling were preserved and very old. The apartment was in the Old Town part of Zurich and very conveniently located to many shops. However, it did not have any lifts. David lived on the highest floor (4th?), so imagine having to lug all the suitcases up and down tiny wooden steps every time they made a trip, which was very very often.
We met Sylvia for dinner at a nice restaurant. All of them knew each other, and belonged to different parts of the funds and banking industry. I sensed a lot of old rich money, and a lifestyle that I merely read about, but was not privy too. Yet they were very humble and down-to-earth people, despite having much wealth and sophisticated tastes for the good life. That night, I left my luggage at the train station (having to return anyway the next morning). I slept on a lamb's wool base padding, put on one of Sylvia's old cashmere sweater, and covered myself with two thick duvets. And I snoozed like a log in the warmth while it rained outside.....
European Futurist Conference (27-28 Oct 2008)
I spent the last 2 days at the European Futurist Conference in Lucerne, which was the main purpose of my trip. The conference was a good platform to network with interesting futurists from the universities, public adminstration and private companies. Most of them were from Europe, with a handful of us from Asia.
Day 1 of the conference was rather mundane, the only spark being a presentation on The Illicit (Deviant) Economy by Nils Gilman from Monitor Group. The BRIC presentations in the morning, IMHO, were rather superficial and merely sketched an overview of the economies. Perhaps it was because we in Singapore were very familiar with China, India, and to a smaller extent, Brazil and Russia. The sessions could have been better called BRIC 101 instead of offering any keen analytical insights. However, many co-attendees found the BRIC sessions very interesting.
Day 2 was much better. We started with a session on Europe consumers 2030 and their perceptions on values, products, income, education, security and so forth. The survey results were tracked by European countries. I got the sense that whilst Europeans were aware (and acknowledged) the fast growth of developing countriest, the competitive threat was less imminent than what we feel in Singapore (being in the hotspot of Chinese and Indian growth). There was a certain 'yes I know China products are everywhere, but I'm not overly concerned about the rise of Chinese economy'. This confidence (or misplaced nonchalance?) was also felt strongly when I chatted with some Swiss bankers. They were very certain that there was no way China or India would overtake Europe (Switzerland) for many years to come. Those economies, in their view, had a lot more to learn and catch up in terms of quality of growth and products and services, before surpassing Europe.
Day 2 also saw some practical sharing of foresights work in established companies. Of particular mention was the presentation by Bayers Materials AG, and how it continuously used foresights research to innovate new products. Google shared on its innovation culture (the 20% free development time, hard-nosed evaluation by numbers, peer-based reviews). Those steps were well-documented in HBR articles, so nothing new there. What was interesting, though, was that Google managed to re-create the same innovation culture in Switzerland/ Europe, as that in Mountain View, USA.
Day 1 of the conference was rather mundane, the only spark being a presentation on The Illicit (Deviant) Economy by Nils Gilman from Monitor Group. The BRIC presentations in the morning, IMHO, were rather superficial and merely sketched an overview of the economies. Perhaps it was because we in Singapore were very familiar with China, India, and to a smaller extent, Brazil and Russia. The sessions could have been better called BRIC 101 instead of offering any keen analytical insights. However, many co-attendees found the BRIC sessions very interesting.
Day 2 was much better. We started with a session on Europe consumers 2030 and their perceptions on values, products, income, education, security and so forth. The survey results were tracked by European countries. I got the sense that whilst Europeans were aware (and acknowledged) the fast growth of developing countriest, the competitive threat was less imminent than what we feel in Singapore (being in the hotspot of Chinese and Indian growth). There was a certain 'yes I know China products are everywhere, but I'm not overly concerned about the rise of Chinese economy'. This confidence (or misplaced nonchalance?) was also felt strongly when I chatted with some Swiss bankers. They were very certain that there was no way China or India would overtake Europe (Switzerland) for many years to come. Those economies, in their view, had a lot more to learn and catch up in terms of quality of growth and products and services, before surpassing Europe.
Day 2 also saw some practical sharing of foresights work in established companies. Of particular mention was the presentation by Bayers Materials AG, and how it continuously used foresights research to innovate new products. Google shared on its innovation culture (the 20% free development time, hard-nosed evaluation by numbers, peer-based reviews). Those steps were well-documented in HBR articles, so nothing new there. What was interesting, though, was that Google managed to re-create the same innovation culture in Switzerland/ Europe, as that in Mountain View, USA.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Lucerne Marathon (26 Oct 2008)
2nd LUCERNE MARATHON (26 Oct 2008)
Lucerne, Switzerland (http://www.lucernemarathon.ch/)
(For pdf version with pictures, http://www.slideshare.net/Pheisunn/2nd-lucerne-marathon-review-presentation/)
It is not often that one gets to write about being last. The Lucerne Marathon was all plans gone wrong, but what an incredible turn of events and experience it became.
PRE-RACE DAY
I registered for the marathon a couple of months ago, hoping to do a good timing. All the enabling conditions were present - great weather, relatively flat and scenic route, fantastic supporters and well-organized event. Except for an unexpected factor – an injured runner who had laid off for 1½ months.
I showed up in Lucerne on the eve of the marathon. Race number collection at the Schweizerhof Hotel (one of the most expensive) was a breeze. There were sponsor booths selling race gear, as well as a free pasta meal for all participants. I bought myself a nicely designed long-sleeved black race shirt. Over 7,000 people registered for the run this year, compared to 5,800 in its inaugural event last year. All the race information was in German and I could hardly figure out the instructions. It took me a while to realize that the start point was not at the hotel, and I had to take a free shuttle cruise from the main railway station across Lake Luzern.
RACE DAY
Race starts at 9:00am (9:06 for those over 4hrs). I got up at 7:00am for a hearty breakfast at the hotel. There were a number of sporty-looking guests in the dining hall, presumably going for the marathon as well. I tried to gauge the weather and spy what they were wearing. It was clear skies today, a respite from the foggy wet weather in the past days.
A quick stroll to the railway station and I boarded the cruise with many runners. A few wore short tights, but the majority was in long tights with a light wind breaker. I was wearing a most un-photogenic combination of double tops and bottoms – a bright pink Nike long-sleeved top over another, and a navy blue Nike Capri tights over black 2XU longs.
The cruise reached the opposite shore at the starting area near the Museum of Transport (Verkehrshaus). I was almost late, and still had to find the bag deposit tent. After wasting 10 precious minutes and a futile search, I desperately approached some race officials. It was 2min to race time, and Swiss punctuality was renowned. I was all ready to simply dump my bag somewhere and head off. Seeing my angst, one of the officials found me some public lockers at a nearby theatre, and even paid the CHF2 locker fee for me! Merci! I joined the start line, surrounded by race tags that looked like the half-marathoners. There were only a handful of full-marathoners around, so I guessed the main pack had already been flagged off. The clock stated 9min as I crossed the starting mats.
What a carnival it was! Lucerne was a small touristy town. The marathon closed off roads in the main section of the town centre and everything came to a standstill that morning. Crowds lined the streets and supporters made a party out of the event. Everywhere we ran, there were many people cheering “Hoppe-hoppe” or “Super”. The marathon route was a 2x 21km loop that took us around the bank of Lake Luzern, major landmarks, and into the scenic neighbourhoods of St. Niklausen, Kastanienbaum, and Horw. The average Luzern altitude was 400-500m asl, and the course was relatively flat except for 2-3 sections that had rather steep and long rolling hills.
Twenty-one musical bands lined the route (almost every kilometer) and added to the festive cheer. The bands ranged from formal ensemble decked in traditional garb, or traditional instruments, to recreational groups that jammed together for a fun time. I ran with a bottle of Endurance drink and power gels in one hand, and my camera in the other. I was constantly distracted by the bands and scenery, pausing ever so often for quick snaps. I must have taken about 2-3 shots per kilometre!
There were 3 race categories – Marathon (full), Halbmarathon (half), and Schnupperlauf (13km). The cut-off times were 2:45h (21km mark), and 5:30h (42km). I had eased off running for many weeks following a knee injury, and the longest I did was 2h a week before the race. And I paid the price today with unconditioned legs. The first 5km was a breeze, high from the excitement and relatively fresh legs. But the Swiss and Europeans were strong runners. Even old ladies trotted along steadily and faster. Many people ran in organized teams and clubs. I spotted a group of T-shirts that read “Desperate Housewives. For Charity”! I ran ahead of the 4:30h pacers (they were called “pacemakers” and carried a bunch of blue balloons), and chugged up the unexpected slopes. But by 10km, the balloons were in front of me and I felt tired already. We crossed the finishing mats for the Schnupperlauf, and I eyed them with envy. By 15km, I was low on sugar and my nose was constantly running ahead of me. Perhaps it was the cold, coupled with my unconditioned state, I was perpetually hungry. Power gels did not help. Thankfully the aid stations were well-organized and stocked with water, Endurance drinks, bananas and cut-up pieces of Powerbar.
As I neared 18km, the 3h-ish marathoners were already coming in the opposite direction on their second loop. Running into the u-turn zone, the men’s podium winners came up behind me in around 2:30h. I u-turned with an English girl who instantly identified my Singaporean accent (having studied in Singapore before) and we ran together for a while. The women’s champion returned around 3:00h as we headed a distance into our 2nd loop. We were amongst the last few in the full marathon, and the streets were quieter now. However, kudos to the encouraging supporters in the 25 – 35km zone, who were clearly enjoying their parties in the nice sunshine. Each time a runner ran by, they would start smiling broadly and shout Hoppe-hoppe in earnest. Mothers pushing prams would stop and cheer, little girls perched on their daddies’ shoulders joined in the shouting, old couples flashed genuine smiles and clapped along. Most of the bands were resting, but as each of us approached, they would drum up a few notes to keep the cheer going. The festive mood was awesome. Each time I pointed my camera at them, the supporters would be momentarily surprised before posing gamely.
Despite the cheering, it was a painful run for me, both physically and mentally. Hungry, cold and miserable. My legs were aching and almost cramped.by 30km. I stopped many times to walk. Suddenly at 33km, I spied a convoy of bicycles riding slowly behind me. I thought they were cleaning the streets of discarded cups. Then it dawned on me that they deliberately stayed back and were escorting me! Unlike the podium finishers who each had one cyclist with a flag stating their rankings (1, 2, or 3), I had a group of 6-7 bicycles merrily chatting away behind me, and an ambulance. It was utterly hilarious! I was very tickled and started taking photos. One of the cyclists took my camera, rode ahead and snapped pictures of me on the run. Then another held on to my camera and promised to take my finishing shots, urging me to keep going in the last 3-5 km. It was pressurizing though, to have so many people staring at my back.
Being last (or nearly last) had its privileges. As I alternated the “last” spot with another guy, the bicycles faithfully kept their distance behind the last runner. The finishing line seemed forever and so far away. At 38km, they fed my bib number to the main control, and I kept hearing my name over the public speakers. I did not understand the announcements, except these words – my mispronounced name in the wrong sequence, Singapore, and Welcome to Lucerne. As I neared the finishing mats, a guy with the finisher medal grabbed my hand and ran with me across the line with raised arms. I think I was the last or 2nd last to make it under the cut-off time. The (rather cute) guy introduced himself as the Vice-President of the marathon organizers, and had me shake hands with the President as well.
I posed for a shot on the finishing bridge, kissing my hard-earned medal. The Lucerne Marathon was a race that eventually ended well, for all the wrong reasons. Now, pardon me while I hobble around on a bad knee for the next few days.
Lucerne, Switzerland (http://www.lucernemarathon.ch/)
(For pdf version with pictures, http://www.slideshare.net/Pheisunn/2nd-lucerne-marathon-review-presentation/)
It is not often that one gets to write about being last. The Lucerne Marathon was all plans gone wrong, but what an incredible turn of events and experience it became.
PRE-RACE DAY
I registered for the marathon a couple of months ago, hoping to do a good timing. All the enabling conditions were present - great weather, relatively flat and scenic route, fantastic supporters and well-organized event. Except for an unexpected factor – an injured runner who had laid off for 1½ months.
I showed up in Lucerne on the eve of the marathon. Race number collection at the Schweizerhof Hotel (one of the most expensive) was a breeze. There were sponsor booths selling race gear, as well as a free pasta meal for all participants. I bought myself a nicely designed long-sleeved black race shirt. Over 7,000 people registered for the run this year, compared to 5,800 in its inaugural event last year. All the race information was in German and I could hardly figure out the instructions. It took me a while to realize that the start point was not at the hotel, and I had to take a free shuttle cruise from the main railway station across Lake Luzern.
RACE DAY
Race starts at 9:00am (9:06 for those over 4hrs). I got up at 7:00am for a hearty breakfast at the hotel. There were a number of sporty-looking guests in the dining hall, presumably going for the marathon as well. I tried to gauge the weather and spy what they were wearing. It was clear skies today, a respite from the foggy wet weather in the past days.
A quick stroll to the railway station and I boarded the cruise with many runners. A few wore short tights, but the majority was in long tights with a light wind breaker. I was wearing a most un-photogenic combination of double tops and bottoms – a bright pink Nike long-sleeved top over another, and a navy blue Nike Capri tights over black 2XU longs.
The cruise reached the opposite shore at the starting area near the Museum of Transport (Verkehrshaus). I was almost late, and still had to find the bag deposit tent. After wasting 10 precious minutes and a futile search, I desperately approached some race officials. It was 2min to race time, and Swiss punctuality was renowned. I was all ready to simply dump my bag somewhere and head off. Seeing my angst, one of the officials found me some public lockers at a nearby theatre, and even paid the CHF2 locker fee for me! Merci! I joined the start line, surrounded by race tags that looked like the half-marathoners. There were only a handful of full-marathoners around, so I guessed the main pack had already been flagged off. The clock stated 9min as I crossed the starting mats.
What a carnival it was! Lucerne was a small touristy town. The marathon closed off roads in the main section of the town centre and everything came to a standstill that morning. Crowds lined the streets and supporters made a party out of the event. Everywhere we ran, there were many people cheering “Hoppe-hoppe” or “Super”. The marathon route was a 2x 21km loop that took us around the bank of Lake Luzern, major landmarks, and into the scenic neighbourhoods of St. Niklausen, Kastanienbaum, and Horw. The average Luzern altitude was 400-500m asl, and the course was relatively flat except for 2-3 sections that had rather steep and long rolling hills.
Twenty-one musical bands lined the route (almost every kilometer) and added to the festive cheer. The bands ranged from formal ensemble decked in traditional garb, or traditional instruments, to recreational groups that jammed together for a fun time. I ran with a bottle of Endurance drink and power gels in one hand, and my camera in the other. I was constantly distracted by the bands and scenery, pausing ever so often for quick snaps. I must have taken about 2-3 shots per kilometre!
There were 3 race categories – Marathon (full), Halbmarathon (half), and Schnupperlauf (13km). The cut-off times were 2:45h (21km mark), and 5:30h (42km). I had eased off running for many weeks following a knee injury, and the longest I did was 2h a week before the race. And I paid the price today with unconditioned legs. The first 5km was a breeze, high from the excitement and relatively fresh legs. But the Swiss and Europeans were strong runners. Even old ladies trotted along steadily and faster. Many people ran in organized teams and clubs. I spotted a group of T-shirts that read “Desperate Housewives. For Charity”! I ran ahead of the 4:30h pacers (they were called “pacemakers” and carried a bunch of blue balloons), and chugged up the unexpected slopes. But by 10km, the balloons were in front of me and I felt tired already. We crossed the finishing mats for the Schnupperlauf, and I eyed them with envy. By 15km, I was low on sugar and my nose was constantly running ahead of me. Perhaps it was the cold, coupled with my unconditioned state, I was perpetually hungry. Power gels did not help. Thankfully the aid stations were well-organized and stocked with water, Endurance drinks, bananas and cut-up pieces of Powerbar.
As I neared 18km, the 3h-ish marathoners were already coming in the opposite direction on their second loop. Running into the u-turn zone, the men’s podium winners came up behind me in around 2:30h. I u-turned with an English girl who instantly identified my Singaporean accent (having studied in Singapore before) and we ran together for a while. The women’s champion returned around 3:00h as we headed a distance into our 2nd loop. We were amongst the last few in the full marathon, and the streets were quieter now. However, kudos to the encouraging supporters in the 25 – 35km zone, who were clearly enjoying their parties in the nice sunshine. Each time a runner ran by, they would start smiling broadly and shout Hoppe-hoppe in earnest. Mothers pushing prams would stop and cheer, little girls perched on their daddies’ shoulders joined in the shouting, old couples flashed genuine smiles and clapped along. Most of the bands were resting, but as each of us approached, they would drum up a few notes to keep the cheer going. The festive mood was awesome. Each time I pointed my camera at them, the supporters would be momentarily surprised before posing gamely.
Despite the cheering, it was a painful run for me, both physically and mentally. Hungry, cold and miserable. My legs were aching and almost cramped.by 30km. I stopped many times to walk. Suddenly at 33km, I spied a convoy of bicycles riding slowly behind me. I thought they were cleaning the streets of discarded cups. Then it dawned on me that they deliberately stayed back and were escorting me! Unlike the podium finishers who each had one cyclist with a flag stating their rankings (1, 2, or 3), I had a group of 6-7 bicycles merrily chatting away behind me, and an ambulance. It was utterly hilarious! I was very tickled and started taking photos. One of the cyclists took my camera, rode ahead and snapped pictures of me on the run. Then another held on to my camera and promised to take my finishing shots, urging me to keep going in the last 3-5 km. It was pressurizing though, to have so many people staring at my back.
Being last (or nearly last) had its privileges. As I alternated the “last” spot with another guy, the bicycles faithfully kept their distance behind the last runner. The finishing line seemed forever and so far away. At 38km, they fed my bib number to the main control, and I kept hearing my name over the public speakers. I did not understand the announcements, except these words – my mispronounced name in the wrong sequence, Singapore, and Welcome to Lucerne. As I neared the finishing mats, a guy with the finisher medal grabbed my hand and ran with me across the line with raised arms. I think I was the last or 2nd last to make it under the cut-off time. The (rather cute) guy introduced himself as the Vice-President of the marathon organizers, and had me shake hands with the President as well.
I posed for a shot on the finishing bridge, kissing my hard-earned medal. The Lucerne Marathon was a race that eventually ended well, for all the wrong reasons. Now, pardon me while I hobble around on a bad knee for the next few days.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Lucerne
I took a morning train from Sylvia’s place at Tiefurbunnen to Zurich HB and then Lucerne. I was totally charmed by Swiss hospitality. I had asked for directions from a lady waiting at the train platform. We took the same train to Zurich HB and started chatting. She lived in the Philippines for 5 years and liked Asia. She was on her way for a day hike in Bern. With 30min to spare, she kindly brought me to the correct platform for Lucerne, before continuing with her journey! I was so thoroughly touched, a stranger’s gesture that was timely and unassuming.
I was meeting Qi at the train station and going to Mt Pilatus with her. She was a friend of Sylvia, and had recently worked in Singapore for a year. She was with UBS and poised to head the Shanghai office, until the financial crisis struck. We found our way to my hotel, left my luggages, and headed out.
First, we went to Hotel Schweizerhof for my marathon race pack collection. I bought a black dri-fit long-sleeved souvenir tee. Then we took a bus to Mt Pilatus cable station, bought a very expensive ticket (CHF64) for a cable ride all the way up the mountain. It was very foggy today, and many locals commented that we would not be able to see anything. Nonetheless we took a risk and hopped on. Mid-way up the mountain, the cable car was totally ensconced in thick fog and we could only see white fluff. It was rather surreal, like in heaven. As luck would be, the fog cleared up as we went higher, and we were greeted by brilliant sunshine. The panaromic view was awesome. We took a few scenic short hikes to nearby peaks and soaked in the sun and views.
I left before Qi, who wanted to stay on and enjoy the sunshine. I found my way back to Hotel Schweizerhopf, in time for the free marathon pasta. I was famished! Then I wandered around the Old Town of Lucerne, wooden bridge, and took many photos along the way. I managed to figure out my way back to my hotel. I still felt hungry and wanted to go to the hotel reception to buy an ice-cream. By chance, I bumped into a guy at the lift lobby. He was a student staying long-term at hotel. His girlfriend was visiting and they cooked a huge tray of beef lasagne. He generously invited me to join them. What a perfect timing for the delicious offer! So there, my second encounter of Swiss hospitality!
I returned to my room and prepared my gear for the race the next day. It was officially the start of winter and all clocks were tuned back an hour. Happy that I gained an extra hour. The bed beckoned….
http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/EuropeTrip24Oct2Nov2008#
I was meeting Qi at the train station and going to Mt Pilatus with her. She was a friend of Sylvia, and had recently worked in Singapore for a year. She was with UBS and poised to head the Shanghai office, until the financial crisis struck. We found our way to my hotel, left my luggages, and headed out.
First, we went to Hotel Schweizerhof for my marathon race pack collection. I bought a black dri-fit long-sleeved souvenir tee. Then we took a bus to Mt Pilatus cable station, bought a very expensive ticket (CHF64) for a cable ride all the way up the mountain. It was very foggy today, and many locals commented that we would not be able to see anything. Nonetheless we took a risk and hopped on. Mid-way up the mountain, the cable car was totally ensconced in thick fog and we could only see white fluff. It was rather surreal, like in heaven. As luck would be, the fog cleared up as we went higher, and we were greeted by brilliant sunshine. The panaromic view was awesome. We took a few scenic short hikes to nearby peaks and soaked in the sun and views.
I left before Qi, who wanted to stay on and enjoy the sunshine. I found my way back to Hotel Schweizerhopf, in time for the free marathon pasta. I was famished! Then I wandered around the Old Town of Lucerne, wooden bridge, and took many photos along the way. I managed to figure out my way back to my hotel. I still felt hungry and wanted to go to the hotel reception to buy an ice-cream. By chance, I bumped into a guy at the lift lobby. He was a student staying long-term at hotel. His girlfriend was visiting and they cooked a huge tray of beef lasagne. He generously invited me to join them. What a perfect timing for the delicious offer! So there, my second encounter of Swiss hospitality!
I returned to my room and prepared my gear for the race the next day. It was officially the start of winter and all clocks were tuned back an hour. Happy that I gained an extra hour. The bed beckoned….
http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/EuropeTrip24Oct2Nov2008#
Friday, October 24, 2008
Zurich
My flight to Zurich was relatively empty and many of us could afford a 3-seat lie down and a decent sleep. I arrived at Zurich airport, and before the passengers even got off, I heard an announcement paging for my name. Turned out that Sylvia had left a message for me with the SQ ground staff. Swiss efficiency! I was very impressed.
I took a train to Sylvia's place and she picked me from the Tiefurbrunnen station. Her house was a villa in the very exclusive and expensive part of Zurich called "Gold Coast", overlooking the Zurich lake. Nothing but the very best for her consumption and residence. It was a lovely place, so tranquil and comfortable. According to Sylvia, the villa had 13 rooms (but I did not see so many). Philippe had connected me with Sylvia who very generously put me up at her place, and arranged a day's programme for me! Her friend Yvette showed me around the entire Zurich, on public transport.
The transportation system in Switzerland is really world-class: precise, efficient and clean. Trains, buses and trams arrive and depart on the dot. 9:02 means 9:02, not a minute ahead or late. Well, if it was not on time, it was probably only 1 min off!
Enroute, we stopped at Helen's boutique. Helen had just returned from a purchasing trip in Milan. I posed for a shot in one of the new season's lilac sporty jacket with shiny ‘scales’ outside the shop. Apparently a customer drove by, saw us, and drove back to buy the jacket!
At night, Sylvia cooked and had a cosy little dinner party at her house - Yvette, Helen, Bob. Both Bob and Sylvia had businesses in Singapore, and they were ardent supporters of our country. They each spent considerable time in a year living in Singapore. Bob said the humidity and weather was good for his old bones. J Sylvia whipped up a pot of lovely fresh-water mussels simmered in an alcohol-based stew. Very very fresh and good. There was no shell or fishy smell at all. Considering that I never ate shell-fish in Singapore, I polished off a decent serving. Sylvia had a garden and grew her own herbs and fruits. She made an aromatic pilaf, with veal stewed in ‘quinces’ – a fruit that looked like a small pear and was supposedly very good for health. The freshness and organic taste of the food was evident. I had a good rest that night. Sylvia apologized that the room was not luxurious, but it was already very comfortable for me.
http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/EuropeTrip24Oct2Nov2008#
I took a train to Sylvia's place and she picked me from the Tiefurbrunnen station. Her house was a villa in the very exclusive and expensive part of Zurich called "Gold Coast", overlooking the Zurich lake. Nothing but the very best for her consumption and residence. It was a lovely place, so tranquil and comfortable. According to Sylvia, the villa had 13 rooms (but I did not see so many). Philippe had connected me with Sylvia who very generously put me up at her place, and arranged a day's programme for me! Her friend Yvette showed me around the entire Zurich, on public transport.
The transportation system in Switzerland is really world-class: precise, efficient and clean. Trains, buses and trams arrive and depart on the dot. 9:02 means 9:02, not a minute ahead or late. Well, if it was not on time, it was probably only 1 min off!
Enroute, we stopped at Helen's boutique. Helen had just returned from a purchasing trip in Milan. I posed for a shot in one of the new season's lilac sporty jacket with shiny ‘scales’ outside the shop. Apparently a customer drove by, saw us, and drove back to buy the jacket!
At night, Sylvia cooked and had a cosy little dinner party at her house - Yvette, Helen, Bob. Both Bob and Sylvia had businesses in Singapore, and they were ardent supporters of our country. They each spent considerable time in a year living in Singapore. Bob said the humidity and weather was good for his old bones. J Sylvia whipped up a pot of lovely fresh-water mussels simmered in an alcohol-based stew. Very very fresh and good. There was no shell or fishy smell at all. Considering that I never ate shell-fish in Singapore, I polished off a decent serving. Sylvia had a garden and grew her own herbs and fruits. She made an aromatic pilaf, with veal stewed in ‘quinces’ – a fruit that looked like a small pear and was supposedly very good for health. The freshness and organic taste of the food was evident. I had a good rest that night. Sylvia apologized that the room was not luxurious, but it was already very comfortable for me.
http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/EuropeTrip24Oct2Nov2008#
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Last Spin
My last RPM Challenge class before I fly off tomorrow. In a bit of a frenzy and panicky state as I had not packed, nor gotten all my things ready! Breathe breathe.
Rodney audited KL's class today. Then there was a foreign trainee guy on stage shadowing KL, and kept being teased by KL for looking like Batman (George Clooney) or James Bond. Me, my mind was wandering off, mentally ticking off a checklist of things to do and buy. Last minute my winter coat went missing. Turned the house upside down for 2 days, and nil coat. :( Had to frantically go out and shop for one within a day.
Rodney audited KL's class today. Then there was a foreign trainee guy on stage shadowing KL, and kept being teased by KL for looking like Batman (George Clooney) or James Bond. Me, my mind was wandering off, mentally ticking off a checklist of things to do and buy. Last minute my winter coat went missing. Turned the house upside down for 2 days, and nil coat. :( Had to frantically go out and shop for one within a day.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Yellowfish Swim Class #4
I went for swim class tonight as I would be flying off on Friday. Monday's Lane 1 swimmers were faster than our Friday's. Coach made us do the following:
Warm up drills
6x50 FR, BR
kick 4x50
pull 6x50 fist
finger swim 2x50
back scull
Lane1
3x200 Ez
2x100Ez
4x50 moderate
4x50 Hard
Treading water 5min
Warm up drills
6x50 FR, BR
kick 4x50
pull 6x50 fist
finger swim 2x50
back scull
Lane1
3x200 Ez
2x100Ez
4x50 moderate
4x50 Hard
Treading water 5min
Sunday, October 19, 2008
A Happily Misguided Run
Did not manage to wake up for Safra run. So I went for a long run in the evening at ECP instead. Well, attempted long run for as far as my knee could go. I had no target, it was like a blank cheque. I managed to go from B1 to Changi Coastal Road and part of the PCN. It was quiet at ECP after the rain. I was happy that I could run for such a long distance, my longest since the last 2 months. And I u-turned. But by then I was starting to get hungry and low on sugar. I managed to trot back to Safra resort chalets. And then walked, and walked, and walked... There was no cab in sight, not til the hawker centre. I must have walked forever..... before getting one. Oh so starving... yet happy with the run.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Run & Ride
Went to ECP early in the morning to get the Nike pacer shoes from Anthony. My plan was to test run the shoes for a short distance, and also to see if my knee was better after Philippe's physio. First thing was to clear a longer mileage, before introducing new variables like new gear.
The Nike Triax Structure had a lower ankle profile than my Asics, so the shoes felt like they were slipping off. Hmmm, will have to re-do the laces to loop it round ankles. The shoes felt slightly stiff, perhaps because it was a first run. In any case, I was distracted by my knee to really notice the shoes. I guess the shoes were ok.
Managed to run from B1 to C4 carpark and back. Saw many people along the way, Fennel, Henry (Kops), and then a group of my ex-WDA colleagues at a run clinic conducted by Eddie & KPI! They were testing the Newton shoes.
Chris cycled past me as I was nearing BigSplash. I returned to B1 in time to meet him and KC for a ride. We rode from B1 to Coastal Road (11km), looped around at Safra Ferry Terminal (8km each way) and went along the main road leading back to East Coast Service Road, the park and out to Coastal Road again. We did 2 loops that Coastal Road sequence before stopping at the hawker centre for lunch. The return trip to B1 totalled 62km ride for the day.
I went to the acupuncture clinic near my house for a tui-na. Perhaps it was the way I used the patella guard, the front of my knee hurt during the run. Sigh. The tui-na guy did a very very thorough and painful run on both legs and back. Ouch...
The Nike Triax Structure had a lower ankle profile than my Asics, so the shoes felt like they were slipping off. Hmmm, will have to re-do the laces to loop it round ankles. The shoes felt slightly stiff, perhaps because it was a first run. In any case, I was distracted by my knee to really notice the shoes. I guess the shoes were ok.
Managed to run from B1 to C4 carpark and back. Saw many people along the way, Fennel, Henry (Kops), and then a group of my ex-WDA colleagues at a run clinic conducted by Eddie & KPI! They were testing the Newton shoes.
Chris cycled past me as I was nearing BigSplash. I returned to B1 in time to meet him and KC for a ride. We rode from B1 to Coastal Road (11km), looped around at Safra Ferry Terminal (8km each way) and went along the main road leading back to East Coast Service Road, the park and out to Coastal Road again. We did 2 loops that Coastal Road sequence before stopping at the hawker centre for lunch. The return trip to B1 totalled 62km ride for the day.
I went to the acupuncture clinic near my house for a tui-na. Perhaps it was the way I used the patella guard, the front of my knee hurt during the run. Sigh. The tui-na guy did a very very thorough and painful run on both legs and back. Ouch...
Friday, October 17, 2008
Treatment and Swim
Had an appointment with my 'manipulator' physio, Philippe, this morning. Such a charming European old gentleman. He was Swiss, and when he heard that I was going to Lucerne for a run next week, he was rather apologetic that he did not manage to fix me right previously. More cracks, and this time, we focused on the butt muscles, ankle and neck.
There was no swim class this week. So I went to Safra pool in the evening. My first swim in the week. Perhaps the break was refreshing, because I managed to do 40 laps decently (and felt good for more) in an auspicious timing of 59:59min. Haha.
Went for acupuncture for back and legs after my swim. Ok, sense of desperation. Tomorrow I shall try running and see how it goes.
There was no swim class this week. So I went to Safra pool in the evening. My first swim in the week. Perhaps the break was refreshing, because I managed to do 40 laps decently (and felt good for more) in an auspicious timing of 59:59min. Haha.
Went for acupuncture for back and legs after my swim. Ok, sense of desperation. Tomorrow I shall try running and see how it goes.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
RPM "Elite"
Andrew took the RPM Challenge today, non-stop 10 tracks, and really smashed it. The class was loud, fast and full of energy. *Gasp* Andrew had his brand new tri-bike in the studio, right in front of me. Staring at it was enough motivation for me. A full carbon Trek, with super sleek parts. Had a chat with Andrew, who showed me his speeds for previous rides. A whopping max 76kmh and average of 43kmh, no kidding! That was almost like a vehicle! Whoa....
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
RPM Challenge
Went for KL's RPM Challenge. Gym has started a new registration system as the class is often full-house. Did not manage to get my usual bike, and had to keep adjusting the 'new' one. Ride was ok. There was a trainee instructor, and none of us could hear her over the music. Her cues were mis-timed and it was quite disastrous.... Luckily she only took 1 track, and KL did the rest.
Met KC and Dom for dinner after class. Had to pass Dom his Sabah Tea boxes. We were discussing next year's races and trips. But oh darn, can't plan for anything in advance now with my knee like that.... Sigh.
Met KC and Dom for dinner after class. Had to pass Dom his Sabah Tea boxes. We were discussing next year's races and trips. But oh darn, can't plan for anything in advance now with my knee like that.... Sigh.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Safra Run
I joined Safra for part of their run tonight. I did a slow Club - Ridley - Tanglin Road route, it took me almost 1:22h. Knee hurt intermittenly through the run, and I stopped several times to stretch. But strangely, it felt ok, not strained, after the run, unlike previously. Hmmm, could not understand the mystery to my knee.
Over dinner, a few of us discussed if we should go for the HK marathon next year. It remains one of my favourite marathons, because the post-race R&R was fabulous. Great weather, loved the rolling slopes.
Over dinner, a few of us discussed if we should go for the HK marathon next year. It remains one of my favourite marathons, because the post-race R&R was fabulous. Great weather, loved the rolling slopes.
Borneo International Marathon (Post-Race)
Post-race (13 Oct 2008)
We had a full day to spare today before our return flight. TTG went for a Thai massage, highly recommended by Eliza. Alber and I drove to town to jalan-jalan. Not much of a shopping scene there. We met Fiona after our hotel check-out, and she brought us to a Chinese dessert shop for tong-shui. The barley beancurd skin was nice and thick, and an assortment of other desserts. The cake was disappointing though, I think they should just stick to their strengths in traditional tong-shui
Next we picked up Ting Kwang from the church, and he drove us a long way to a recently discovered Taiwanese restaurant famous for braised pork trotters. The owner was a fiesty, fierce lady, who refused to let us order more food lest we could not finish! When Alber asked if she sold beer since there was an alcohol license, she retorted that she did not feel like selling alcohol! Whoa....
The braised trotter was really good though. Worth the wait and scolding. Haha. It was done so soft and succulent, the meat tore off from the bone upon the touch. The cartilage around the bone joint was the loveliest. Oh, I could imagine Ah-Chua and Adam loving that stuff.
We had a full day to spare today before our return flight. TTG went for a Thai massage, highly recommended by Eliza. Alber and I drove to town to jalan-jalan. Not much of a shopping scene there. We met Fiona after our hotel check-out, and she brought us to a Chinese dessert shop for tong-shui. The barley beancurd skin was nice and thick, and an assortment of other desserts. The cake was disappointing though, I think they should just stick to their strengths in traditional tong-shui
Next we picked up Ting Kwang from the church, and he drove us a long way to a recently discovered Taiwanese restaurant famous for braised pork trotters. The owner was a fiesty, fierce lady, who refused to let us order more food lest we could not finish! When Alber asked if she sold beer since there was an alcohol license, she retorted that she did not feel like selling alcohol! Whoa....
The braised trotter was really good though. Worth the wait and scolding. Haha. It was done so soft and succulent, the meat tore off from the bone upon the touch. The cartilage around the bone joint was the loveliest. Oh, I could imagine Ah-Chua and Adam loving that stuff.
Borneo International Marathon (Race Day)
Marathon Race Day (12 Oct 2008)
Photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/BorneoInternationalMarathon12Oct2008#
The pickup for full marathon was at 3.45am for Alber, TTG and Gene. Eliza took my half marathon pickup slot for 4.45am. As for me, Fiona kindly offered to give me a ride to Likas stadium at 6.30am. The sun rose very early in KK, by 6.30am it was bright and sunny outside. I saw marathoners running past our hotel. The 10km was starting at 7am and I got to the start line just in time by 6.55am. The men's champion (Kenyan) for the full marathon ran into the stadium just as we were about to start our event, finishing in 2:25h.
The 10km was flagged off. I started at the back, unsure if I was able to run after an entire week of rest. There were many recreational joggers at the back, and I began weaving my way to the front. Legs were light and refreshed. We began the route along the scenic coast line. I spied red 'cones' on the road lane markings and wondered how come the traffic cones had such weird shapes. On closer inspection, they turned out to be big red plastic cups, overturned and filled with some sand/ cement to keep them grounded! No wonder I spotted a couple of squashed ones, ran over by cars. Haha.
Gradually I overtook many people and could see the starting group of the 10kmers. Around the 4km mark, I saw a purple Nike tee in front and made a mental note to catch up with the runner. It turned out to be TTG! Haha, she called me when I ran past her. I saw the 10kmers u-turning and tried to count if there were any female runners ahead. I spotted only 1. Ah-ha! I could try to catch up with her, which I did after the u-turn point. On the return loop, I saw Uncle Soon and waved at him.
For the last few km into the stadium, I just focused on not slowing down and not letting the other lady catch up with me. There was a tall caucasian who entered the stadium with me. We had about 200m loop to the Finish banner. I picked up pace, but could only match his rather relaxed long strides. And then there was applause. Ahh. I crossed the line, 55:12min (according to my watch, official time 55:18min). I think I won something. :) Turned out I was 2nd for the Women's Open category. The lady that I overtook belonged to the Local Closed category. I guessed since many of the good female runners were out at the half and full marathons, the 10km was less competitive. Ah-ha! My first time ever winning anything at a running event, and my first trophy! What an amusing and amazing turn of events. :)
Fiona lent us her car, and we drove to town for lunch. The stalls at the Sunday Market were packing up and closing when we reached. Alber, TTG, Gene and I popped by a coffeeshop selling ban-mian (noodles) and we ordered 4 different types of noodles to share. Then we strolled around Hyatt and the malls, and tried to find Ah-Chua and Sok Hwa at the hotel. After 1-2hours of walking, our legs were protesting, and we plonked ourselves into the nice sofas at a Hk cafe. We finally bumped into Ah-Chua and Sok Hwa at Hyatt in the late afternoon, and we made an elaborate plan to ferry 7 people in 1 car to catch sunset and seafood dinner. It was an amazing feat, a tribute to all 5 slim female runners in the back seat. Haha. We brought Ah-Chua, Sok Hwa and Eliza to the same coconut pudding stall, en-route to the beach. Alber was happy he found his drinking buddy. Apparently the guys could not find any coffeeshops selling beer in town.
The sunset at Shangri-la Rasa Ria was lovely. There was a wedding reception on the beach, and deck chairs for people to lounge around. There were some clouds in the horizon, so the sun peeked intermittenly behind the puffy cover.
Photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/simsps/BorneoInternationalMarathon12Oct2008#
The pickup for full marathon was at 3.45am for Alber, TTG and Gene. Eliza took my half marathon pickup slot for 4.45am. As for me, Fiona kindly offered to give me a ride to Likas stadium at 6.30am. The sun rose very early in KK, by 6.30am it was bright and sunny outside. I saw marathoners running past our hotel. The 10km was starting at 7am and I got to the start line just in time by 6.55am. The men's champion (Kenyan) for the full marathon ran into the stadium just as we were about to start our event, finishing in 2:25h.
The 10km was flagged off. I started at the back, unsure if I was able to run after an entire week of rest. There were many recreational joggers at the back, and I began weaving my way to the front. Legs were light and refreshed. We began the route along the scenic coast line. I spied red 'cones' on the road lane markings and wondered how come the traffic cones had such weird shapes. On closer inspection, they turned out to be big red plastic cups, overturned and filled with some sand/ cement to keep them grounded! No wonder I spotted a couple of squashed ones, ran over by cars. Haha.
Gradually I overtook many people and could see the starting group of the 10kmers. Around the 4km mark, I saw a purple Nike tee in front and made a mental note to catch up with the runner. It turned out to be TTG! Haha, she called me when I ran past her. I saw the 10kmers u-turning and tried to count if there were any female runners ahead. I spotted only 1. Ah-ha! I could try to catch up with her, which I did after the u-turn point. On the return loop, I saw Uncle Soon and waved at him.
For the last few km into the stadium, I just focused on not slowing down and not letting the other lady catch up with me. There was a tall caucasian who entered the stadium with me. We had about 200m loop to the Finish banner. I picked up pace, but could only match his rather relaxed long strides. And then there was applause. Ahh. I crossed the line, 55:12min (according to my watch, official time 55:18min). I think I won something. :) Turned out I was 2nd for the Women's Open category. The lady that I overtook belonged to the Local Closed category. I guessed since many of the good female runners were out at the half and full marathons, the 10km was less competitive. Ah-ha! My first time ever winning anything at a running event, and my first trophy! What an amusing and amazing turn of events. :)
Fiona lent us her car, and we drove to town for lunch. The stalls at the Sunday Market were packing up and closing when we reached. Alber, TTG, Gene and I popped by a coffeeshop selling ban-mian (noodles) and we ordered 4 different types of noodles to share. Then we strolled around Hyatt and the malls, and tried to find Ah-Chua and Sok Hwa at the hotel. After 1-2hours of walking, our legs were protesting, and we plonked ourselves into the nice sofas at a Hk cafe. We finally bumped into Ah-Chua and Sok Hwa at Hyatt in the late afternoon, and we made an elaborate plan to ferry 7 people in 1 car to catch sunset and seafood dinner. It was an amazing feat, a tribute to all 5 slim female runners in the back seat. Haha. We brought Ah-Chua, Sok Hwa and Eliza to the same coconut pudding stall, en-route to the beach. Alber was happy he found his drinking buddy. Apparently the guys could not find any coffeeshops selling beer in town.
The sunset at Shangri-la Rasa Ria was lovely. There was a wedding reception on the beach, and deck chairs for people to lounge around. There were some clouds in the horizon, so the sun peeked intermittenly behind the puffy cover.
After the sunset, we drove to nearby Salut Seafood for dinner. The way in was a dark and bumpy road, lit only by a few random bulb sticks to guide us into the kelong compounds. The seafood was fresh, and we selected whatever we wanted for dinner - prawns, fish, crabs, and shells. I think it was too much indulgence for me considering I only ran 10km! Of course the joy was in the raucous company, drinking and eating heartily after a good race. :)
Borneo International Marathon (Pre-race)
Pre-marathon Day (Saturday 11-Oct 2008)
The pickup at 430am and ride to Senai airport was uneventful. We arrived at the airport and saw the TPY Safra runners. There was a big group of them going to Kota Kinabalu for the run, and they had camped overnight at the airport. We saw Bev's father, Uncle Soon, and his elderly kakis too. My gosh, some of the uncles looked like they had trouble walking, but they were still bravely going for the full marathon. Wow. I slept blissfully throughout the flight, vaguely aware of some announcements of turbulence and seat belts....
It turned out that Uncle Soon and us were staying at the same hotel. We had to ask the bus to pick up Genevieve along the way. She was Chin KK's friend, a last minute adoption into my group of 3. She needed accomodation, and TTG had a single room to herself. We reached the new 1Borneo Hypermall, where our hotel Best Western Courtyard was. The rooms were not ready, so we went to roam the mall and had KFC. When we finally got our rooms, we realised that the hotel was not fully completed and there was some renovation and construction work on-going. Other than the slight mess along the corridor, it did not bother us. At least the hotel was brand new so most things were in working order.
Fiona and Ting Kwang picked us up for lunch. We went to a coffeeshop along Gaya Street selling claypot chicken rice and beef soup. The chicken rice was really delicious, using drumstick meat. We ordered a few pots of different stuff to share. Next we went to Likas stadium to collect our race packs. There was a minor error, and my category had not been changed to half marathon. The organizer said it was easier to put me into the 10km category instead because there was no champion chip timing. Which worked out well since I was apprehensive about running 21km anyway. The race tee was an addidas blue running vest (like our Stanchart vest), but in men's sizing only. Sigh...
Fiona wanted to bring us to Shangri-la Rasa Ria resort to see the sunset, but the weather looked like it was going to storm. Along the way, we stopped by a wooden makeshift hut for an amazing coconut pudding and barbecued giant clams. The pudding was very interesting because it was coconut juice and pulp somehow converted into a pudding texture, scooped back into the coconut. It was very refreshing, and amongst the 3 girls, we ordered 4 coconuts!
We headed back to the hotel for an early rest. TTG and Gene knocked out quite early by 5pm. Alber and I went to the mall for a quick dinner, and bumped into Eliza. She was staying at the new budget Tune hotel next to us! So we 'adopted' her as well and we all went for dinner together.
The pickup at 430am and ride to Senai airport was uneventful. We arrived at the airport and saw the TPY Safra runners. There was a big group of them going to Kota Kinabalu for the run, and they had camped overnight at the airport. We saw Bev's father, Uncle Soon, and his elderly kakis too. My gosh, some of the uncles looked like they had trouble walking, but they were still bravely going for the full marathon. Wow. I slept blissfully throughout the flight, vaguely aware of some announcements of turbulence and seat belts....
It turned out that Uncle Soon and us were staying at the same hotel. We had to ask the bus to pick up Genevieve along the way. She was Chin KK's friend, a last minute adoption into my group of 3. She needed accomodation, and TTG had a single room to herself. We reached the new 1Borneo Hypermall, where our hotel Best Western Courtyard was. The rooms were not ready, so we went to roam the mall and had KFC. When we finally got our rooms, we realised that the hotel was not fully completed and there was some renovation and construction work on-going. Other than the slight mess along the corridor, it did not bother us. At least the hotel was brand new so most things were in working order.
Fiona and Ting Kwang picked us up for lunch. We went to a coffeeshop along Gaya Street selling claypot chicken rice and beef soup. The chicken rice was really delicious, using drumstick meat. We ordered a few pots of different stuff to share. Next we went to Likas stadium to collect our race packs. There was a minor error, and my category had not been changed to half marathon. The organizer said it was easier to put me into the 10km category instead because there was no champion chip timing. Which worked out well since I was apprehensive about running 21km anyway. The race tee was an addidas blue running vest (like our Stanchart vest), but in men's sizing only. Sigh...
Fiona wanted to bring us to Shangri-la Rasa Ria resort to see the sunset, but the weather looked like it was going to storm. Along the way, we stopped by a wooden makeshift hut for an amazing coconut pudding and barbecued giant clams. The pudding was very interesting because it was coconut juice and pulp somehow converted into a pudding texture, scooped back into the coconut. It was very refreshing, and amongst the 3 girls, we ordered 4 coconuts!
We headed back to the hotel for an early rest. TTG and Gene knocked out quite early by 5pm. Alber and I went to the mall for a quick dinner, and bumped into Eliza. She was staying at the new budget Tune hotel next to us! So we 'adopted' her as well and we all went for dinner together.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Yellowfish #4
Class went ok today. We used the swim buoys in our drills today. My arms were still dropping though. We stopped our long distance swims and focused on 200m-intervals. Coach said 200m was the best distance to train for swimming, incorporating both aerobic and anaerobic training. 3 sets of easy 200m, followed by 3 sets of fast 200m, ending with 1 set of 100m sprint. Rushed home to pack, had to leave for Sabah early in the morning.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
RPM Challenge
Went for acupuncture this morning. It was my second time. No promises, just kept hoping that it would speed up recovery. Finally had a chance tonight to attend KL's RPM Challenge class. It was a full class, fun. I gained weight from all the rich feasting and no workouts.... Sigh... Hope to be able to start my trekking training soon. Time was running out.
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