It's time for the mid-year report.
First and foremost, there are a few people I would like to thank.
My family is definitely top on the list.
Thanks for allowing me to train and take part in races.
Thanks for your never-ending support.
You made it extra special by being there at the Aviva Ironman 70.3 Singapore Finish Line. =)
Thanks to Joyce, Tekko and Eugene.
You are my mentors.
Giving me advice and encouragement throughout these two years.
Special thanks has to be extended to Shutehelup and SupCon.
Although I was determined to sign up for Aviva Ironman Singapore 70.3, your words are what woke me up.
Raihan's words "One cannot excel in all three disciplines in a triathlon" is the advice that I gave to my fellow triathletes who is uncertain if they can complete a triathlon.
Two world class examples would be Chrissie Wellington and Craig Alexander, both current Ironman World Champions.
Chrissie is a swimmer, but she is never tops when it comes to the 3.8km swim. But her bike and run leg is what is excel in.
Craig? He does not excel in his swim and bike.
But if you wanna beat him, you better make sure that you have a size-able lead going into your run and pray hard that he left his afterburners at home.
Ask Chris Lieto and you will know why.
Read this => http://www.slowtwitch.com/Features/The_Alexander_-_Lieto_Duel_869.html
So if you are undecided, sign up and train hard for it.
If you can do each discipline individually, there is no reason why you cannot complete Ironman 70.3.
Ok, on with the mid year report.
2009 marks a fine sporting calendar year for Singapore. We had a bumper crop of sporting events in the first half of the year.
With Aviva IM 70.3 S'pore moved forward to March to avoid any Formula1 inconvenience, it is a wonderful timing for me.
The year started with MR25 Progressive Run 10km.
(If things worked out, I should be following the whole series and get myself a T-shirt while working towards my first Full marathon.
But things dun always work out as planned. Most of the Progressive Runs get overlapped by other races.)
Took a wrong route and was lucky that other non-racing runners guided me along the correct path. Thanks, guys.
Reach base to find that the organisers has already packed up and left. =D
So much for my introduction to MR Progressive Runs. =D
Next Run is the inaugural Safari Zoo Run.
I have not been to the Zoo for a very long time, thus I wasn't aware that the first part of the run was done in the Night Safari.
Thought the organisers keep the animals away, in case we frighten the animals. =D
Stacy kept me company for most part of the run. Thanks, Stacy. =)
First race of the year, Tribob Sprint Aquathlon.
I missed last year's race, but given the good feedback, I was keen to find out.
Had a good race.
Submitted my first and last SGRunners Race Report. =D
(Dunno how to write in a report format. I still prefer my own candid and very personal style. =p )
Next up, Newton Active Run.
No real reason for signing up...
Just felt that last year's Punggol Run was nice, so wanted to do it again.
Alas, the route was changed this year to SengKang...
Nonetheless, it was still a good run. =)
Maybe I will sign up as bike marshall next year. =D
Singapore Biathlon is next.
This is an annual event that I will not missed.
It was the first multi-sports event that I signed up and kick start my passion in triathlons. =)
Had a good race.
Timing was worse than last year.
But it does not really matter.
This is my training for the real event of the year.
4th race in four consecutive weeks.
TriBob Sprint Duathlon.
This race is part of the Singapore Sprint Series and is held in my own backyard.
With the promise of better cycling experience, I was keen to find out. =D
I was not disappointed.
They closed an entire stretch of road, so we have 1.5 lanes to cycle either way. =)
Right after the event, I promptly signed up for Aviva Ironman 70.3 Singapore.
2 days before HIM, I did my first Clementi loop to experience the race route.
Wow... it was a wonderful experience.
I am excited to see how race day will progress.
My family promised to wait for me at the Finish Line, making me more excited to complete the race.
Aviva Ironman 70.3 Singapore.
My BIGGEST race ever...
I have kept calmed my nerves since Friday...
All the training has been completed.
Now is just a matter of finishing the race within the cut-off time.
When I stand at the Start Line, I did not have the usual pre-race jitters.
Pretty scary stuff. The BIGGEST race of my life and I am not nervous at all?
The race got underway...
Had a great swim. Was able to draft two swimmers during the second lap. =D
Completed the swim in less than an hour... Within target time. =D
In transition, I had two GU gels and a 750ml of Accelerade before commencing on my bike leg.
Darn... my cyclometer is missing, most probably stolen...
I will be riding blind for the race...
Ride was good...except that I carried a 3L of water in the hydration pack during the whole race. =/
I din feel the need to drink much during the race.
Probably the Accelerade and the cloudy weather surpress the urge.
Just treat it as training lor... Who knows I may be able to clock a better bike time next year. =D
Another grouse for the bike leg is that my front deraileur come loose at the start of the 3rd lap.
I was forced to ride in my small chain ring with my front deraileur clink-clanking on my gears throughout the 30km!!!
I count myself lucky that I still have some leg power to climb the slopes on the small chain rings. =D
Completed the Bike Leg within 3:30 hrs. Again within target time.
That gives me 4 hours to complete my half-marathon. =D
Barring any major issues, I should be able to complete the race within the cut-off time. =D
Completed the run in 3:30hrs...
Completed the race looking very fresh, according to wifey. =D
Celebrate the completion at Carls Jr before proceeding home.
12th April 2009 TriFam Sprint Triathlon.
Why did I sign up for the race?
Cos it is cheap. =D
And it looks like a whole bunch of JoyRiders are taking part.
Started the swim and saw the YellowFishes zooming ahead.
Managed to catch a few fishes during the bike leg, but still finished the race at the rear after being overtaken by scores of runners...=D
19th April 2009 TriBob Sprint Triathlon.
The last race of the Tribob Sprint Series.
Again I missed last year's race, so I am very keen to see how good this race really is. =D
Did a sub-20min for 750m swim, which I suspected is shorter than that.
After a long run to the transition point, I was dismayed to find my cyclometer missing yet again.
2 missing cyclometers in a space of 6 weeks!!! Haiz...
Cycled blind again...
Was pleased to clock a first-ever >30kmh official timing during a Bike Leg of a race. =D
26th April 2009 Raw Duathlon
Inaugural Duathlon organised by Hi-Velocity.
Raw means basic.... No medal, no race certificate.
But most of us finished the race with a wealth of experience.
The race was conducted at Aviation Road where it is no tree cover.
The first 10km Run was bearable...
40km Bike was fun.
The last 10km was the real test.
The sun was up and it was a cloudless day.
All of us are at the sun's mercy.
Daniel Gan decided to call it a day after completing 2km...
Wise move.
He has more than 9 years of racing under his belt, when it is time to quit, one has to be brave and smart enough to quit.
Lin was 500m from the Finish Line when she collapsed due to severe cramps.
I find myself lucky that I manage to complete the race without any major issues.
3rd May 2009 Tri Factor Swim
The first of a 4-part series organised by Orange Room.
The 3km swim was conducted at Tanjong Beach, Sentosa.
The swim was conducted during low tide, so some of the swimmers who were tempted to walk 50-100m to the turning point...=D
A first for most swimmers who get swim in very shallow waters.
30th May 2009 Adidas SunDown Night Marathon
My very first marathon.
Again, I was very calm when I stand at the Start Line...
Started the race running at a pretty good pace, but started to slow after 1km.
Manage to run for about 8km before I started walking.
Downside of the race was the terrible first few water stations during the race.
The water stations was too small to accommodate too many runners.
The rest of the race was a challenge.
One to keep awake.
Two to complete the distance.
There was a shortcut during one stage of the marathon, but I could not bring myself to do it.
No way I could live with the truth if I ever done it.
Complete the race in 9 hours without any major issues. =)
14th June 2009 Tri Factor Bike
2nd Race of the Tri-Factor Series.
60km Pure Cycling.
Looking forward to the race, but with no target set.
Just wanna see how hard I can push myself for 60km.
Starting out at 38kmh, the speed dropped to 36kmh...
36kmh...I hope I can sustain this speed for the entire race.
Less than a few kilometers, the pace dropped further.
Speed fluctuate between 30-33kmh.
I should have strategise... draft all the way and not try to take the lead at all.
Complete the race with an average speed of 32kmh.
Should have been glad with the timing, but somehow I beat myself up for that.
21st June 2009 National Runway Cycling
First time I am doing this event.
But it shall be the last time as well.
The first lap is nice, but subsequent laps where we merged with the rollerbladers, the route is simply horrendous.
Oh well... I did not finish the mid-year on a high note.
Anyway, this is my mid-year report.
Hope you have a good time reading it. =)
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Running Challenges
This is in response to the 2 challenges that SGRunners has created in 2008.
I decided to keep a record just for fun. =D
Sprint Challenge
============
Punggol Central Run, 5km (Bib 75) - 31m 54s
Pearl Izumi Pure Run, 12km (Bib 267) - 1h 21m 23s
Mizuno Wave Run, 10km (Bib 1419) - 1h 17m 20s
Pearl Izumi Pure Run, 20km (Bib 049) - 2h 33m 19s
Run NUS, 10km (Bib 0046) - DNS
Army Half Marathon, 21km (Bib NO538) - 3h 33m 54s
Swing KPE (Bib MO2501) - 1h 33m
New Balance Real Run, 15km (Bib MO4616) - 2h 21m 47s
Newton Active Run, 10km (Bib 1119) - 1h 24m 29s
Endurance Challenge
===============
Army Half Marathon, 21km (Bib NO538) - 3h 33m 54s
Pearl Izumi Pure Run, 30km (Bib 151) - DNS
Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon, 42.195km (Bib 11585) - DNS
Adidas Sundown Marathon, 42.195km (Bib 1118) - 9h 01m 14s
I decided to keep a record just for fun. =D
Sprint Challenge
============
Punggol Central Run, 5km (Bib 75) - 31m 54s
Pearl Izumi Pure Run, 12km (Bib 267) - 1h 21m 23s
Mizuno Wave Run, 10km (Bib 1419) - 1h 17m 20s
Pearl Izumi Pure Run, 20km (Bib 049) - 2h 33m 19s
Run NUS, 10km (Bib 0046) - DNS
Army Half Marathon, 21km (Bib NO538) - 3h 33m 54s
Swing KPE (Bib MO2501) - 1h 33m
New Balance Real Run, 15km (Bib MO4616) - 2h 21m 47s
Newton Active Run, 10km (Bib 1119) - 1h 24m 29s
Endurance Challenge
===============
Army Half Marathon, 21km (Bib NO538) - 3h 33m 54s
Pearl Izumi Pure Run, 30km (Bib 151) - DNS
Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon, 42.195km (Bib 11585) - DNS
Adidas Sundown Marathon, 42.195km (Bib 1118) - 9h 01m 14s
Monday, June 29, 2009
2XU Compression
Been using 2XU Compression for quite a while.
Initially I was pretty skeptical about it.
I cannot imagine why anyone would plonked $190 for a pair of long compression tights.
But when SCSM 2008 swings around the corner, I am gamed for anything that will help minimise the pain, given the minimal preparation that I had done for the full marathon.
Putting it on for the first time , I am sold!
Muscles aches and Delay Onset of Muscle Soreness (DOMS) become a thing of the past. =D
It also started my addiction with 2XU.
Suddenly, the rest of the triathlon stuff seems second-rated.
When my trusty 1.5 year-old New Balance tri-tights started giving me saddle sore, I know it is high time I get a new pair of tri-tights.
I am lost. I do not have any brand of tri-tights in mind.
2XU triathlon tights was out of the question.
It is just too expensive.
A few weeks later, I chanced about an article reviewing the new 2009 2XU Endurance Series Tri Tights.
It featured Kinetic Compression lycra having the ability to reduce muscle fatigue.
Hmm... this is definitely worth a try.
Mens - http://www.2xu.com/triathlon/mt1118b.html
Womens - http://www.2xu.com/triathlon/wt1224b.html
I was ready to get impressed by MT1118b.
Little did I know how much relief it will bring to my cycling.
Usually, I can feel the burn in my thighs when I push hard.
With MT1118b, you can still feel a dull burning sensation, but the Kinetic Compression fabric kick into action immediately.
The aches are numbed and easily forgotten.
MT1118b is something that I recommend to all my friends who asked.
You really have to try it to know its benefit.
It is definitely worth every penny.
1118 is a significant and memorable number to me too.
It is my bib number for Sundown Marathon. =)
It will be extra special to me if I wear the 2XU tri-tights for Sundown, but I know that the long compression tights is better in that department. =)
For the record is one thing, but you do not use stupidity to achieve it. =)
Initially I was pretty skeptical about it.
I cannot imagine why anyone would plonked $190 for a pair of long compression tights.
But when SCSM 2008 swings around the corner, I am gamed for anything that will help minimise the pain, given the minimal preparation that I had done for the full marathon.
Putting it on for the first time , I am sold!
Muscles aches and Delay Onset of Muscle Soreness (DOMS) become a thing of the past. =D
It also started my addiction with 2XU.
Suddenly, the rest of the triathlon stuff seems second-rated.
When my trusty 1.5 year-old New Balance tri-tights started giving me saddle sore, I know it is high time I get a new pair of tri-tights.
I am lost. I do not have any brand of tri-tights in mind.
2XU triathlon tights was out of the question.
It is just too expensive.
A few weeks later, I chanced about an article reviewing the new 2009 2XU Endurance Series Tri Tights.
It featured Kinetic Compression lycra having the ability to reduce muscle fatigue.
Hmm... this is definitely worth a try.
Mens - http://www.2xu.com/triathlon/mt1118b.html
Womens - http://www.2xu.com/triathlon/wt1224b.html
I was ready to get impressed by MT1118b.
Little did I know how much relief it will bring to my cycling.
Usually, I can feel the burn in my thighs when I push hard.
With MT1118b, you can still feel a dull burning sensation, but the Kinetic Compression fabric kick into action immediately.
The aches are numbed and easily forgotten.
MT1118b is something that I recommend to all my friends who asked.
You really have to try it to know its benefit.
It is definitely worth every penny.
1118 is a significant and memorable number to me too.
It is my bib number for Sundown Marathon. =)
It will be extra special to me if I wear the 2XU tri-tights for Sundown, but I know that the long compression tights is better in that department. =)
For the record is one thing, but you do not use stupidity to achieve it. =)
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Burnout
Over the past weeks, a few of us suffered burnout.
Rynn and I were the first affected and both of us started battling to find answers for something that we have never encountered before.
Luckily both of us are now back riding and are much happier riders. =D
Evelyn and Daniel Yong were to suffer the same fate the week after.
It wasn't hard to diagnose the problem.
Hopefully they will be up and running this week. =)
*****
Hmm... why does cyclists suffer burnout and runners don't?
I may be wrong, but I have yet to hear a case of a runner complaining about burnout.
*****
Sometimes it just dun make sense.
Joyce has been riding for decades with hardly a long break, but she dun suffer any burnout.
Rynn and I were the first affected and both of us started battling to find answers for something that we have never encountered before.
Luckily both of us are now back riding and are much happier riders. =D
Evelyn and Daniel Yong were to suffer the same fate the week after.
It wasn't hard to diagnose the problem.
Hopefully they will be up and running this week. =)
*****
Hmm... why does cyclists suffer burnout and runners don't?
I may be wrong, but I have yet to hear a case of a runner complaining about burnout.
*****
Sometimes it just dun make sense.
Joyce has been riding for decades with hardly a long break, but she dun suffer any burnout.
Cycling 27th June 2009
Woke up at 2.30am...
Geez, I beat the clock by a huge margin this morning...
Hehe... is this what happened after burnout?
You get to beat the clock day after day?
Or rather you are more keen to do what you have been doing on a regular basis...
Dilly dally and I made it out of the house at 5am.
Was at the void deck when I realise I forgot my shades...
Argh... when did I get so forgetful.
Went up to get the shades.
Cannot imagine 2-3 hours of cycling without them.
Reached Longhouse at 5:31am to see the last few riders rolling out from Longhouse.
Oh boy, the group sure is early today.
Heard later that there are no newbies, thus the early start off.
Waited for Sandy, who arrived at 5:36am.
Will we be able to catch the train...
There is a chance we might...
Sadly, that was not the case.
Sandy still have a lot of brushing up to do for her riding.
Given that she can only ride twice a week, that is a commendable effort.
When we rolled into Mandai Shell, there are only a few riders left.
Kampung Boy Calvin Boo, Rejoice Henry, E-Beam FangJie, Chan Kilo and a few others.
Just when we are about to roll off, Viv roll in...
Haha... she was late and is chasing the group the whole distance. =D
Chan Kilo, FangJie, Sandy, Viv and I took the Kranji route while the rest turned left.
Haha... if Chan Kilo has not waited for us, there will only two Western riders... =D
I took the lead till the Kranji bridge where I took over the role as rear marshall.
Out onto Lim Chu Kang Road, I started to sprint ahead again.
Hmm... could it be the ride yesterday or was I just plain tired?
I could only muster 36km/h for 1km, 33km/h for the next km and hover just above 30km/h for the rest of the way to Lim Chu Kang's last bus stop.
Argh... this really sucks...
We reached the Choa Chu Kang in pretty good time.
7:05am to be exact.
The group just get faster and faster each time.
The kopi auntie is disappointed to see only five of us.
Oh well, I guess part of the reason is that this is the last weekend of the school holidays.
Over brekkie, we were chatting about everything under the sun.
One interesting question pops up.
What will you be doing when you are above 40?
Chan Kilo has his own practice, so he is good.
But he can sensed that the employment market is biased for people above 40 years old.
This will be an answer that I will be able to find out in a few years' time.
Geez, I beat the clock by a huge margin this morning...
Hehe... is this what happened after burnout?
You get to beat the clock day after day?
Or rather you are more keen to do what you have been doing on a regular basis...
Dilly dally and I made it out of the house at 5am.
Was at the void deck when I realise I forgot my shades...
Argh... when did I get so forgetful.
Went up to get the shades.
Cannot imagine 2-3 hours of cycling without them.
Reached Longhouse at 5:31am to see the last few riders rolling out from Longhouse.
Oh boy, the group sure is early today.
Heard later that there are no newbies, thus the early start off.
Waited for Sandy, who arrived at 5:36am.
Will we be able to catch the train...
There is a chance we might...
Sadly, that was not the case.
Sandy still have a lot of brushing up to do for her riding.
Given that she can only ride twice a week, that is a commendable effort.
When we rolled into Mandai Shell, there are only a few riders left.
Kampung Boy Calvin Boo, Rejoice Henry, E-Beam FangJie, Chan Kilo and a few others.
Just when we are about to roll off, Viv roll in...
Haha... she was late and is chasing the group the whole distance. =D
Chan Kilo, FangJie, Sandy, Viv and I took the Kranji route while the rest turned left.
Haha... if Chan Kilo has not waited for us, there will only two Western riders... =D
I took the lead till the Kranji bridge where I took over the role as rear marshall.
Out onto Lim Chu Kang Road, I started to sprint ahead again.
Hmm... could it be the ride yesterday or was I just plain tired?
I could only muster 36km/h for 1km, 33km/h for the next km and hover just above 30km/h for the rest of the way to Lim Chu Kang's last bus stop.
Argh... this really sucks...
We reached the Choa Chu Kang in pretty good time.
7:05am to be exact.
The group just get faster and faster each time.
The kopi auntie is disappointed to see only five of us.
Oh well, I guess part of the reason is that this is the last weekend of the school holidays.
Over brekkie, we were chatting about everything under the sun.
One interesting question pops up.
What will you be doing when you are above 40?
Chan Kilo has his own practice, so he is good.
But he can sensed that the employment market is biased for people above 40 years old.
This will be an answer that I will be able to find out in a few years' time.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Cycling 26th June 2009
Woke up 3.40am.
Keke, I am making progress.
Today, I'm only 5 mins earlier than the alarm clock.
Meet Eugene at 4.30am.
Not used to riding to Longhouse.
Forgot my gloves, helmet and shades. =p
Luckily I am just a few steps away from the house and went back to get those items. =D
It was a fast paced ride to Longhouse.
As usual, I could not keep up with Eugene upslopes. =(
Quite a couple of MIA riders riding today.
Kam Meng (usually train alone) and Nick (cannot wake up) were present for today's ride.
Stefano is the special star today. This is his second ride after the Aviva IM 70.3 incident.
Haha, looks like Stefano will appear if I managed to start from Longhouse. =D
The train zoomed out from Longhouse.
Relaxed Friday is truly a thing of the past. =D
Managed to keep pace with the riders up Prata Hill.
Feeling good, I proceed to follow them up Sembawang slopes...
Haiz.... disaster strikes again.
I lost the group halfway up the slope. Again...
By the time we turn into Mandai, the group is nowhere to be seen...
I am getting from bad to worse. =(
Kinda lonely ride to Mandai Shell.
After SLE Flyover, I took note of my pace.
Pace is pretty much what I do on this stretch of road.
So the crucial factor is that I lost the group after Sembawang Slopes.
If I am able to sustain that distance and pace up to SLE Flyover, I should be good.
Hmm... gotta work hard on that.
Reaching Mandai Shell, it did not take long for the train to get moving again...
Yeah... I was the third from last rolling into Mandai Shell... =(
Kelvin Tham stopped at the traffic light going towards Kranji.
"No one, not a single one?"
Everyone has turned left and Kelvin is forced to follow. =D
Haha...it reminds me of the day when Baoying did the same thing a few months ago. =D
It was a fast-paced ride to Bukit Timah.
So much for Relaxed Friday Ride...
Along Bukit Timah, James Kona lead the draft.
James and Mika seems to be training for some races...
Eugene caught up near the end of Bukit Timah and the training begins. =D
Up Lornie Flyover, Prata Hill and Sembawang slopes we went.
"Cadence cadence, forget about speed!"
This is the hardest climb I had ever done.
The heart is pumping so hard, the heart felt as if it will pop out anytime. =D
After completing Sembawang slopes, I decided to give it another go.
It is not everyday that I have Eugene breathing down my neck. =D
Down Mandai Road -> Old Mandai Road we went.
It is time for Sembawang Slopes again...
This time, I am pretty sure the heart has popped out and dropped onto the roads.
Will have to go back and retrieve it later. =D
When the deed is done, Eugene asked "Do you know the pace you did just now?"
"Nope" I said.
"30km/h" Eugene replied.
Hehe... I was too tired, too shagged to acknowledged the fact.
Thanks, Eugene!
Keke, I am making progress.
Today, I'm only 5 mins earlier than the alarm clock.
Meet Eugene at 4.30am.
Not used to riding to Longhouse.
Forgot my gloves, helmet and shades. =p
Luckily I am just a few steps away from the house and went back to get those items. =D
It was a fast paced ride to Longhouse.
As usual, I could not keep up with Eugene upslopes. =(
Quite a couple of MIA riders riding today.
Kam Meng (usually train alone) and Nick (cannot wake up) were present for today's ride.
Stefano is the special star today. This is his second ride after the Aviva IM 70.3 incident.
Haha, looks like Stefano will appear if I managed to start from Longhouse. =D
The train zoomed out from Longhouse.
Relaxed Friday is truly a thing of the past. =D
Managed to keep pace with the riders up Prata Hill.
Feeling good, I proceed to follow them up Sembawang slopes...
Haiz.... disaster strikes again.
I lost the group halfway up the slope. Again...
By the time we turn into Mandai, the group is nowhere to be seen...
I am getting from bad to worse. =(
Kinda lonely ride to Mandai Shell.
After SLE Flyover, I took note of my pace.
Pace is pretty much what I do on this stretch of road.
So the crucial factor is that I lost the group after Sembawang Slopes.
If I am able to sustain that distance and pace up to SLE Flyover, I should be good.
Hmm... gotta work hard on that.
Reaching Mandai Shell, it did not take long for the train to get moving again...
Yeah... I was the third from last rolling into Mandai Shell... =(
Kelvin Tham stopped at the traffic light going towards Kranji.
"No one, not a single one?"
Everyone has turned left and Kelvin is forced to follow. =D
Haha...it reminds me of the day when Baoying did the same thing a few months ago. =D
It was a fast-paced ride to Bukit Timah.
So much for Relaxed Friday Ride...
Along Bukit Timah, James Kona lead the draft.
James and Mika seems to be training for some races...
Eugene caught up near the end of Bukit Timah and the training begins. =D
Up Lornie Flyover, Prata Hill and Sembawang slopes we went.
"Cadence cadence, forget about speed!"
This is the hardest climb I had ever done.
The heart is pumping so hard, the heart felt as if it will pop out anytime. =D
After completing Sembawang slopes, I decided to give it another go.
It is not everyday that I have Eugene breathing down my neck. =D
Down Mandai Road -> Old Mandai Road we went.
It is time for Sembawang Slopes again...
This time, I am pretty sure the heart has popped out and dropped onto the roads.
Will have to go back and retrieve it later. =D
When the deed is done, Eugene asked "Do you know the pace you did just now?"
"Nope" I said.
"30km/h" Eugene replied.
Hehe... I was too tired, too shagged to acknowledged the fact.
Thanks, Eugene!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Cycling 25th June 2009
Woke up at 4am without the assistance of an alarm clock.
Argh, there goes my beauty sleep.
The weather is nice and cooling.
The temptation to sleep in is extremely high.
Decided to get up and JUST DO IT!!!
Out of the house at 5am, I made my way down to Mandai Shell.
Din have to wait long before the train arrives.
After taking Mandai's attendance, Peter asked if I am going Bukit Timah.
Receiving my affirmation, he said "Let's go!"
The trio Peter, Mike and I rode at a steady pace with Peter pulling the group.
I took over the lead at Bukit Panjang. After getting an earful from Peter, I maintained my pace at 29km/h. =p
Mike took over at Bukit Timah.
This is the best co-ordinated ride I had done so far.
Once again, I skipped Lornie Road and rode back home with Mike through Novena.
Passing Castle Green, the cyclometer reads only 31km (Dun ask me how and why), so I took Yio Chu Kang and Sembawang Road home. =p
Argh, there goes my beauty sleep.
The weather is nice and cooling.
The temptation to sleep in is extremely high.
Decided to get up and JUST DO IT!!!
Out of the house at 5am, I made my way down to Mandai Shell.
Din have to wait long before the train arrives.
After taking Mandai's attendance, Peter asked if I am going Bukit Timah.
Receiving my affirmation, he said "Let's go!"
The trio Peter, Mike and I rode at a steady pace with Peter pulling the group.
I took over the lead at Bukit Panjang. After getting an earful from Peter, I maintained my pace at 29km/h. =p
Mike took over at Bukit Timah.
This is the best co-ordinated ride I had done so far.
Once again, I skipped Lornie Road and rode back home with Mike through Novena.
Passing Castle Green, the cyclometer reads only 31km (Dun ask me how and why), so I took Yio Chu Kang and Sembawang Road home. =p
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Cycling 22nd June 2009
Woke up at 3.30am.
Hmm... why is it always 30 minutes before the alarm clock goes off...
The sky is filled with lightning.
Called STP and she still insisted on riding. =)
Good gal.
Both of us need this ride to get rid of the post race blues.
Haha... if she has not insisted , I probably would have gone back to sleep.
Both of us had a good ride doing the short loop before we carry on with our day.
Thanks, STP. =D
Hmm... why is it always 30 minutes before the alarm clock goes off...
The sky is filled with lightning.
Called STP and she still insisted on riding. =)
Good gal.
Both of us need this ride to get rid of the post race blues.
Haha... if she has not insisted , I probably would have gone back to sleep.
Both of us had a good ride doing the short loop before we carry on with our day.
Thanks, STP. =D
National Runway Cycling and Skating (NRWCS)
Woke up at 4.30am.
Hmm... why is it that I will always wake up 30 minutes before the alarm clock is supposed to go off.
My bike is fully loaded this morning.
AeroDrink plus 3 full water bottles.
I feel like I am riding a market bike to Paya Lebar Air Base (PLAB).
Lentor Ave > AMK Ave 6 > AMK Ave 3 > Hougang Ave 2 > Hougang Ave 3.
Reached PLAB at 7am and there were already long queues going through security.
Mingle around with friends before proceeding to the Start Line at 7:45am.
Chatted at length with Donna and Derricky while waiting for the event to start.
Haha, the race has yet to start and I had already drained two water bottles.
The event was flagged off at 8am.
500m on, I was feeling good, thus I went ahead to pull the group.
Keke... the feeling is shiok...
Just the lead vehicle in front of me. =p
Manage to held onto the lead for the next 5km.
My pace has dropped steadily from 40km/h to 36km/h... =p
Wayne must have felt short-changed and decided to take over the lead.
The lead group of 6-8 riders surged ahead.
Again, I got no answer for their surge.
Boo hoo hoo... I just do not know how to handle my cycling.
Cycling with the lead group, I always feel the need to surge in front to pull.
But I will always drop off after a few kilometers.
Was disppointed when I see the lead vehicle turn left onto the service road.
This will be disastrous during the second lap when we meet up with the back markers.
On the service road, we have to negotiate through numerous road humps.
This really sucks lor.
This shall be my first and last NRWCS.
I was steadily losing the front pack, but there is no one catching up with me. =(
When a Cervelo P2C rode past, I quickly took his draft.
Unfortunately, it only last for a few hundred meters.
P2C dropped his water bottle and have to backtrack to retrieve it.
Rode alone for another few kilometers before a pack of 3 rode past.
The four of us took turns to pull.
Reaching the Lap Count Lane (LCL), I slowed to a crawl, but I still did not succeed in lifting my hand to grab the rubber band.
Passing the LCL without a rubber band, a JR with blue Rudy Project Aero helmet exclaimed "Daniel, you rode so fast and dun wan your lap count?!?!"
(Jeez, this really gotta sucks. Recently, people start calling me by my name and I had no inkling who they are. Sorry, guys!)
Sadly, it is not that I do not want my lap count. I am still quite unsteady when it comes to one handed cycling.
Passing the Start Line, I went into aero position.
With the wide runway, it was pleasant riding in aero.
Unfortunately, we hit the back markers and I was forced to revert to normal cycling position.
Going into the Service Road was a nightmare.
It was packed full with cyclists and rollerbladers.
You literally have to thread your way through.
Less than 300m later, I decided to call it a day.
No point sacrificing my bike.
After all, this event is for me to redeem myself for an un-satisfactory last week's Tri-Factor Bike performance.
(Am I pushing myself too hard? I still cannot stop feeling disappointed about Tri-Factor Bike.)
(In fact, I felt bad about Sundown Marathon too. =( )
Cross over to the 15km Leisure route and met up with Charles and his family.
Marcus and his kids came over to join us as well. =)
Chat for a while before Marcus's son exclaimed that he did not have enough and would like to go for another lap.
I volunteered to babysit his kid.
So off we went...onto the Endurance route?!?!
Ain't we doing the Leisure route?
Geez, what have I gotten myself into.
I had just escaped the jaws of the Service Road and I am going back there to be hammered?
This is so dumb... but I have already given my word to the kid...
Just grit my teeth and thread through the crowd again.
Out onto the 2-lane service road, the kid gave me a scare when he tried to drink while riding.
Cos his bike is darn wobbly and he is very near to the bike in front.
But he assured me "I can do it, Uncle Daniel."
"Ok" is my only response.
A JR (Sorry, I really dun recognise you.) rode past and exclaimed "Daniel, bringing your family out for a ride?"
I quickly responsed "Looking after someone's kid" =D
Back out onto the runway, the kid is still keen to do another lap.
Checking back with Marcus, Marcus he gave the kid the go ahead.
So back onto the runway and service road we went.
The service road has less traffic now and it is much enjoyable to ride.
Eliza came along and both of us chat while looking after the kid.
Haha... I think we looked like parents bringing the son out for a ride. =D
Eliza is the craziest adrenaline junkie I have met so far. =D
All the best for your races, Eliza!
Marcus's kid is getting tired. He is pedallng and stopping.
I agree with what Eliza said "For a 9-year old to cycle 45km is an incredible feat."
We finally completed the 3rd lap and Eliza proceed to collect her 45km Endurance Challenge certificate while I brought the kid back to his dad.
Without much after-race entertainment, I proceed to KeyPower International Great Singapore Sales before riding home. =D
On my way home, both my tires went into a gap and I came to a shudderng halt!
OMG, I am going to crash!!!
Luckily I regain control and is able to ride out of the gap unscathed.
Riding through Thomson Road, I got caught in the rain.
Geez, I really hate riding in the rain right now.
The Continential tires are holding well, but I just dun feel confident anymore.
Sigh... every single crash has an adverse effect on my confidence.
Will take a long while before I get back to cycling without much worries. =(
Hmm... why is it that I will always wake up 30 minutes before the alarm clock is supposed to go off.
My bike is fully loaded this morning.
AeroDrink plus 3 full water bottles.
I feel like I am riding a market bike to Paya Lebar Air Base (PLAB).
Lentor Ave > AMK Ave 6 > AMK Ave 3 > Hougang Ave 2 > Hougang Ave 3.
Reached PLAB at 7am and there were already long queues going through security.
Mingle around with friends before proceeding to the Start Line at 7:45am.
Chatted at length with Donna and Derricky while waiting for the event to start.
Haha, the race has yet to start and I had already drained two water bottles.
The event was flagged off at 8am.
500m on, I was feeling good, thus I went ahead to pull the group.
Keke... the feeling is shiok...
Just the lead vehicle in front of me. =p
Manage to held onto the lead for the next 5km.
My pace has dropped steadily from 40km/h to 36km/h... =p
Wayne must have felt short-changed and decided to take over the lead.
The lead group of 6-8 riders surged ahead.
Again, I got no answer for their surge.
Boo hoo hoo... I just do not know how to handle my cycling.
Cycling with the lead group, I always feel the need to surge in front to pull.
But I will always drop off after a few kilometers.
Was disppointed when I see the lead vehicle turn left onto the service road.
This will be disastrous during the second lap when we meet up with the back markers.
On the service road, we have to negotiate through numerous road humps.
This really sucks lor.
This shall be my first and last NRWCS.
I was steadily losing the front pack, but there is no one catching up with me. =(
When a Cervelo P2C rode past, I quickly took his draft.
Unfortunately, it only last for a few hundred meters.
P2C dropped his water bottle and have to backtrack to retrieve it.
Rode alone for another few kilometers before a pack of 3 rode past.
The four of us took turns to pull.
Reaching the Lap Count Lane (LCL), I slowed to a crawl, but I still did not succeed in lifting my hand to grab the rubber band.
Passing the LCL without a rubber band, a JR with blue Rudy Project Aero helmet exclaimed "Daniel, you rode so fast and dun wan your lap count?!?!"
(Jeez, this really gotta sucks. Recently, people start calling me by my name and I had no inkling who they are. Sorry, guys!)
Sadly, it is not that I do not want my lap count. I am still quite unsteady when it comes to one handed cycling.
Passing the Start Line, I went into aero position.
With the wide runway, it was pleasant riding in aero.
Unfortunately, we hit the back markers and I was forced to revert to normal cycling position.
Going into the Service Road was a nightmare.
It was packed full with cyclists and rollerbladers.
You literally have to thread your way through.
Less than 300m later, I decided to call it a day.
No point sacrificing my bike.
After all, this event is for me to redeem myself for an un-satisfactory last week's Tri-Factor Bike performance.
(Am I pushing myself too hard? I still cannot stop feeling disappointed about Tri-Factor Bike.)
(In fact, I felt bad about Sundown Marathon too. =( )
Cross over to the 15km Leisure route and met up with Charles and his family.
Marcus and his kids came over to join us as well. =)
Chat for a while before Marcus's son exclaimed that he did not have enough and would like to go for another lap.
I volunteered to babysit his kid.
So off we went...onto the Endurance route?!?!
Ain't we doing the Leisure route?
Geez, what have I gotten myself into.
I had just escaped the jaws of the Service Road and I am going back there to be hammered?
This is so dumb... but I have already given my word to the kid...
Just grit my teeth and thread through the crowd again.
Out onto the 2-lane service road, the kid gave me a scare when he tried to drink while riding.
Cos his bike is darn wobbly and he is very near to the bike in front.
But he assured me "I can do it, Uncle Daniel."
"Ok" is my only response.
A JR (Sorry, I really dun recognise you.) rode past and exclaimed "Daniel, bringing your family out for a ride?"
I quickly responsed "Looking after someone's kid" =D
Back out onto the runway, the kid is still keen to do another lap.
Checking back with Marcus, Marcus he gave the kid the go ahead.
So back onto the runway and service road we went.
The service road has less traffic now and it is much enjoyable to ride.
Eliza came along and both of us chat while looking after the kid.
Haha... I think we looked like parents bringing the son out for a ride. =D
Eliza is the craziest adrenaline junkie I have met so far. =D
All the best for your races, Eliza!
Marcus's kid is getting tired. He is pedallng and stopping.
I agree with what Eliza said "For a 9-year old to cycle 45km is an incredible feat."
We finally completed the 3rd lap and Eliza proceed to collect her 45km Endurance Challenge certificate while I brought the kid back to his dad.
Without much after-race entertainment, I proceed to KeyPower International Great Singapore Sales before riding home. =D
On my way home, both my tires went into a gap and I came to a shudderng halt!
OMG, I am going to crash!!!
Luckily I regain control and is able to ride out of the gap unscathed.
Riding through Thomson Road, I got caught in the rain.
Geez, I really hate riding in the rain right now.
The Continential tires are holding well, but I just dun feel confident anymore.
Sigh... every single crash has an adverse effect on my confidence.
Will take a long while before I get back to cycling without much worries. =(
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Cycling 20th June 2009
Woke up at 3.30am...
Hmm... why do I keep awaking up before the alarm clock this week?
Took my own sweet time to prep for the ride.
First thought of the day?
Will I be able to make it out of the house today? =/
It was 5:30am before I haul my ass out of the house.
Incredible. 2 hours to prep for a ride. =S
Rode at a good pace to Mandai Shell.
The bike is carrying three water bottles today, but it does not feel as heavy as Thursday.
Probably I am looking forward to meeting old friends...
Reached Mandai Shell. Sandy is nowhere to be seen, so I proceed to cycle along Woodlands Road, looking forward to cycle with her back to Mandai Shell.
Caught her just under the KPE flyover and we rode back together.
When JR Express came, we hop onto the Kranji train.
The pace is getting faster and faster for the pack.
Along Neo Tiew Road, I started pulling the group.
Finding that I cannot sustain a good pace for the group to follow, I decided to drop back and become a sweeper.
Out onto Lim Chu Kang Road, I start to sprint ahead, taking everyone by surprise.
It is just me and the road ahead. A surreal feeling.
Reached the last bus stop. Turn around and was pleasantly surprised to find Chan-Kilo and Sandy about 100m behind.
Wow, Sandy has really improved a lot.
Sandy, you bluffed me about being the weakest rider during last week's ride.
Along Old Choa Chu Kang Road, the group did a pretty good pace to Choa Chu Kang.
Just before we passed below KJE, I noticed a golf course on the left side of the road.
Oh boy, I have been concentrating too much on my cycling to check out my surroundings.
I should probably slow down my pace and enjoy the scenery.
At a traffic junction, Chan-Kilo did not release his cleats.
I ask him to un-cleat.
Told him that it is not possible to sustain till the light turns green without stopping.
He went on to show us how to handle the bike while waiting for the light to turn green. =D
Had a hearty breakfast and talk before proceeding home.
Noticed a lot of durian pickers along Mandai Road.
Keke... this reminds me of my army days when civilians invaded military training grounds just to pick the King of Fruits.
Hmm... why do I keep awaking up before the alarm clock this week?
Took my own sweet time to prep for the ride.
First thought of the day?
Will I be able to make it out of the house today? =/
It was 5:30am before I haul my ass out of the house.
Incredible. 2 hours to prep for a ride. =S
Rode at a good pace to Mandai Shell.
The bike is carrying three water bottles today, but it does not feel as heavy as Thursday.
Probably I am looking forward to meeting old friends...
Reached Mandai Shell. Sandy is nowhere to be seen, so I proceed to cycle along Woodlands Road, looking forward to cycle with her back to Mandai Shell.
Caught her just under the KPE flyover and we rode back together.
When JR Express came, we hop onto the Kranji train.
The pace is getting faster and faster for the pack.
Along Neo Tiew Road, I started pulling the group.
Finding that I cannot sustain a good pace for the group to follow, I decided to drop back and become a sweeper.
Out onto Lim Chu Kang Road, I start to sprint ahead, taking everyone by surprise.
It is just me and the road ahead. A surreal feeling.
Reached the last bus stop. Turn around and was pleasantly surprised to find Chan-Kilo and Sandy about 100m behind.
Wow, Sandy has really improved a lot.
Sandy, you bluffed me about being the weakest rider during last week's ride.
Along Old Choa Chu Kang Road, the group did a pretty good pace to Choa Chu Kang.
Just before we passed below KJE, I noticed a golf course on the left side of the road.
Oh boy, I have been concentrating too much on my cycling to check out my surroundings.
I should probably slow down my pace and enjoy the scenery.
At a traffic junction, Chan-Kilo did not release his cleats.
I ask him to un-cleat.
Told him that it is not possible to sustain till the light turns green without stopping.
He went on to show us how to handle the bike while waiting for the light to turn green. =D
Had a hearty breakfast and talk before proceeding home.
Noticed a lot of durian pickers along Mandai Road.
Keke... this reminds me of my army days when civilians invaded military training grounds just to pick the King of Fruits.
Inspiration
I am greatly humbled by the three-worded sentence "You inspire me/us."
I am doing what I love.
I really did not know that my actions have the power to motivate others.
I am glad that I made a difference. =)
I am doing what I love.
I really did not know that my actions have the power to motivate others.
I am glad that I made a difference. =)
Friday, June 19, 2009
Tri-Factor Bike 60km Results
Lap 1 (15km) 25m 40s
Lap 2 (30km) 26m 01s
Lap 3 (45km) 29m 28s
Lap 4 (60km) 27m 59s
Total Time 1h 49m 08s
Time behind Winner 21m 23s
Ranked 72 out of 155 (Top 47%) of Men's Open 60km Finishers
Lap 2 (30km) 26m 01s
Lap 3 (45km) 29m 28s
Lap 4 (60km) 27m 59s
Total Time 1h 49m 08s
Time behind Winner 21m 23s
Ranked 72 out of 155 (Top 47%) of Men's Open 60km Finishers
Cycling 18th June 2009
Woke up at 3.30am.
Prep for the ride.
Today I shall go without my AeroDrink, but carry 3 water bottles instead.
Again I feel like abandoning my ride, but managed to drag my ass out of the door.
On the roads, the bike feel like a ton of bricks.
Is it the 3 bottles or my legs are sleeping?
I should retire liao.
No point forcing myself to bike, if the heart is not there.
It is pure torture .
Miraclously, I managed to reach Mandai Shell.
The JR Express came and went.
Spotted Donna and YKK riding in.
Rode with them for a bit before I pulled ahead. I just feel don't feel like talking today.
While YKK and Donna proceed towards Clementi, I rode alone along Bukit Timah.
Rode towards Newton Road before turning back North.
Oh boy, I missed Carol.
She will make sure I do Lornie Flyover, Prata Hill and Sembawang Hills.
Carol, where are you?
Did a pit stop at the top of Prata Hill.
Two bottles down, the bike felt lighter and I feel that I am spinning faster.
A check on the cyclometer?
My VERY FAST spinning pace translate to 26km/h!!!
The engine truly needs an overhaul. =(
Am I facing a burnout? If so, why???
Prep for the ride.
Today I shall go without my AeroDrink, but carry 3 water bottles instead.
Again I feel like abandoning my ride, but managed to drag my ass out of the door.
On the roads, the bike feel like a ton of bricks.
Is it the 3 bottles or my legs are sleeping?
I should retire liao.
No point forcing myself to bike, if the heart is not there.
It is pure torture .
Miraclously, I managed to reach Mandai Shell.
The JR Express came and went.
Spotted Donna and YKK riding in.
Rode with them for a bit before I pulled ahead. I just feel don't feel like talking today.
While YKK and Donna proceed towards Clementi, I rode alone along Bukit Timah.
Rode towards Newton Road before turning back North.
Oh boy, I missed Carol.
She will make sure I do Lornie Flyover, Prata Hill and Sembawang Hills.
Carol, where are you?
Did a pit stop at the top of Prata Hill.
Two bottles down, the bike felt lighter and I feel that I am spinning faster.
A check on the cyclometer?
My VERY FAST spinning pace translate to 26km/h!!!
The engine truly needs an overhaul. =(
Am I facing a burnout? If so, why???
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Mid June Thoughts
Tuesday
=======
Woke up at 4am.
Turn off the alarms and went back to sleep.
I am not tired at all, just that the riding soul is missing.
*****
Wednesday
=========
Woke up at 3.30am.
Pumped the tires, filled up the water bottles.
Had brekkie and proceed to wash up.
Stared at the door, stared at the bike.
I dunno what is bothering me recently, but the feelings are worse than last week.
Even with Tri-Bike and National Runway Cycling on consecutive weekends, there was no motivation to train for the races.
Wednesday is my favourite weekday ride, but today just dun feel right.
Went back to bed.
Woke up later in the day without regrets on missing the ride.
What is wrong with me?
=======
Woke up at 4am.
Turn off the alarms and went back to sleep.
I am not tired at all, just that the riding soul is missing.
*****
Wednesday
=========
Woke up at 3.30am.
Pumped the tires, filled up the water bottles.
Had brekkie and proceed to wash up.
Stared at the door, stared at the bike.
I dunno what is bothering me recently, but the feelings are worse than last week.
Even with Tri-Bike and National Runway Cycling on consecutive weekends, there was no motivation to train for the races.
Wednesday is my favourite weekday ride, but today just dun feel right.
Went back to bed.
Woke up later in the day without regrets on missing the ride.
What is wrong with me?
Tri-Factor Bike 60km
Hitched a ride from Adrian to the race venue.
Reaching Changi Ferry Terminal Car Park at 6:30am, the car park is fairly empty.
Parked the car and slowly prep for the race.
Just when we were about to leave for race site, the Pink-mobile pulled up beside us.
Ahh... Damo is racing for CycleWorx while Jeanette will be the supporter.
Jeanette is all decked out in running gear, so I guess she may take the chance to put in a run. =)
Kinda weird that I could not get around to say hi to the celebrity couple. =/
Reaching the race site, we were surprised to see the car park pretty deserted.
30 minutes to road closure and most of the competitors are not here yet?!?!
Cycle around and spot only a few familiar faces.
Alvin, Kel and Wai Jia will be the bike marshalls supporting the HAS riders today. Well done, guys!
Met FrootLoops.
He is enjoying the last few months of his freedom before he get enlisted.
But he has BIG plans to ride every weekend after that. Good for you, mate. =D
After a short briefing, the race starts promptly at 8am.
The pack pulled away pretty fast.
I tried to keep up, but could not hang on to their draft. =(
Checking my cyclometer. 38.1km/h!!!
Wah...are these guys really serious? Are they going to keep to this pace for the whole race?
Turning out onto Changi Coastal Road, I managed to catch up with the second pack.
(The first pack of 4-6 riders were way in front.)
The second pack is losing steam.
Feeling good, I went ahead to pull the second pack.
Is that a wise decision to pull that early in the race?
It is a decision I live to regret.
Well, you learn from your experiences.
3km later, the group started overtaking me.
My legs got no answer for their surge!
Very quickly, I got left behind without draft.
My pace dropped to 34km/h. =(
After the U-turn, I made an assessment on the Wave 1 riders.
Hmm... I should be in the top half of my Wave. =)
Lap 1 , I managed to maintain a consistent 34km/h pace.
Passing the Start Point, we can see that they are more waves that have yet to start.
A lot of cheering and photographs were taken.
Passing over a red carpeted square, I am wondering why the timing mat is so small.
Ouch...they are using the thin carpets to cover the drain covers!!!
Going on my second lap, my pace has dropped to 33km/h. =(
Turning out onto Changi Coastal Road, I caught the tail of the 6th Wave riders and drafted for a while. =)
Drinking on the move poses to be a problem which I never realised.
I can either drink or pedal.
I cannot do both at the same time, no matter how hard I tried. =(
Suddenly, the speed strips appeared in front of me.
Geez... I dun have time to slot back my bottle into the bottle cage.
Holding onto the bottle with 2 fingers while steering the bike, I am losing grip of bottle.
"Lose your bottle or lose your bike."
The answer is straight forward, but but... it is my favourite water bottle. =p
Managed to keep both at the end of the speed trap stretch. =D
Making the U-turn, my pace started dropping to 30km/h...
This really sucks BIG TIME...
It just makes matter worse to see your average speed dropping as well. =(
Returning to the Start Point for the second time, there are still a lot of cameras clicking away.
Will make an effort to go aero for a nice photo shoot during the next lap. ;p
Third lap will be my most crucial lap.
It will be my refuelling lap.
Although I am not very pleased with it, I realised that I just could not push beyond 30km/h for sustained periods of time without a draft. =(
Had a gel at 35km.
Decided to play safe and had a 2nd gel at 40km.
My whole stash of water is gone by now.
I will have to survive without water for the next 20km!!!
Next time, I shall load the 4th water bottle as well.
Passing the 40km U-turn point, the 2nd-placed 40km rider blantly rode into our lane, resulting in shouts from us.
Dumb fellow... he risked his placing just for that little extra speed on the U-turn.
The water aid station sucks lor.
They hand out small cups of water.
They refill water from a office type water cooler!!!
And the aid station are located on the right hand side, which means I will have to stop and drink. =/
Back at the Start Point, I proceed to go down on aero, ready for my photo to be taken.
A lady rider veers from the extreme right lane to ride in front of me, forcing me to slow down and come out from my aero position.
Argh... the photo taking opportunity is gone. =(
Going into my final lap, I am feeling good, despite the lack of fluids.
At the final U-turn, HohoRunner caught up with me and I took his draft.
Stuck to his draft for 2km before he surges and pulled away.
Passing the Start Point for the final time, I went down onto aero position.
But sadly, I din see much photographers around anymore. =(
Right after the Start Point, it is a final dash to the Finish Line.
Passed the Finish Line in a time of 1:49:xx.
Proceed to have 2 bottles of Boost.
After mingling around for a while, we proceed home.
A good organised race. Thanks, Tri Factor. =)
Reaching Changi Ferry Terminal Car Park at 6:30am, the car park is fairly empty.
Parked the car and slowly prep for the race.
Just when we were about to leave for race site, the Pink-mobile pulled up beside us.
Ahh... Damo is racing for CycleWorx while Jeanette will be the supporter.
Jeanette is all decked out in running gear, so I guess she may take the chance to put in a run. =)
Kinda weird that I could not get around to say hi to the celebrity couple. =/
Reaching the race site, we were surprised to see the car park pretty deserted.
30 minutes to road closure and most of the competitors are not here yet?!?!
Cycle around and spot only a few familiar faces.
Alvin, Kel and Wai Jia will be the bike marshalls supporting the HAS riders today. Well done, guys!
Met FrootLoops.
He is enjoying the last few months of his freedom before he get enlisted.
But he has BIG plans to ride every weekend after that. Good for you, mate. =D
After a short briefing, the race starts promptly at 8am.
The pack pulled away pretty fast.
I tried to keep up, but could not hang on to their draft. =(
Checking my cyclometer. 38.1km/h!!!
Wah...are these guys really serious? Are they going to keep to this pace for the whole race?
Turning out onto Changi Coastal Road, I managed to catch up with the second pack.
(The first pack of 4-6 riders were way in front.)
The second pack is losing steam.
Feeling good, I went ahead to pull the second pack.
Is that a wise decision to pull that early in the race?
It is a decision I live to regret.
Well, you learn from your experiences.
3km later, the group started overtaking me.
My legs got no answer for their surge!
Very quickly, I got left behind without draft.
My pace dropped to 34km/h. =(
After the U-turn, I made an assessment on the Wave 1 riders.
Hmm... I should be in the top half of my Wave. =)
Lap 1 , I managed to maintain a consistent 34km/h pace.
Passing the Start Point, we can see that they are more waves that have yet to start.
A lot of cheering and photographs were taken.
Passing over a red carpeted square, I am wondering why the timing mat is so small.
Ouch...they are using the thin carpets to cover the drain covers!!!
Going on my second lap, my pace has dropped to 33km/h. =(
Turning out onto Changi Coastal Road, I caught the tail of the 6th Wave riders and drafted for a while. =)
Drinking on the move poses to be a problem which I never realised.
I can either drink or pedal.
I cannot do both at the same time, no matter how hard I tried. =(
Suddenly, the speed strips appeared in front of me.
Geez... I dun have time to slot back my bottle into the bottle cage.
Holding onto the bottle with 2 fingers while steering the bike, I am losing grip of bottle.
"Lose your bottle or lose your bike."
The answer is straight forward, but but... it is my favourite water bottle. =p
Managed to keep both at the end of the speed trap stretch. =D
Making the U-turn, my pace started dropping to 30km/h...
This really sucks BIG TIME...
It just makes matter worse to see your average speed dropping as well. =(
Returning to the Start Point for the second time, there are still a lot of cameras clicking away.
Will make an effort to go aero for a nice photo shoot during the next lap. ;p
Third lap will be my most crucial lap.
It will be my refuelling lap.
Although I am not very pleased with it, I realised that I just could not push beyond 30km/h for sustained periods of time without a draft. =(
Had a gel at 35km.
Decided to play safe and had a 2nd gel at 40km.
My whole stash of water is gone by now.
I will have to survive without water for the next 20km!!!
Next time, I shall load the 4th water bottle as well.
Passing the 40km U-turn point, the 2nd-placed 40km rider blantly rode into our lane, resulting in shouts from us.
Dumb fellow... he risked his placing just for that little extra speed on the U-turn.
The water aid station sucks lor.
They hand out small cups of water.
They refill water from a office type water cooler!!!
And the aid station are located on the right hand side, which means I will have to stop and drink. =/
Back at the Start Point, I proceed to go down on aero, ready for my photo to be taken.
A lady rider veers from the extreme right lane to ride in front of me, forcing me to slow down and come out from my aero position.
Argh... the photo taking opportunity is gone. =(
Going into my final lap, I am feeling good, despite the lack of fluids.
At the final U-turn, HohoRunner caught up with me and I took his draft.
Stuck to his draft for 2km before he surges and pulled away.
Passing the Start Point for the final time, I went down onto aero position.
But sadly, I din see much photographers around anymore. =(
Right after the Start Point, it is a final dash to the Finish Line.
Passed the Finish Line in a time of 1:49:xx.
Proceed to have 2 bottles of Boost.
After mingling around for a while, we proceed home.
A good organised race. Thanks, Tri Factor. =)
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Weekend Thoughts
Brought the kids to the swimming pool.
Manage to do 4 laps. 2 free, 2 breast.
I am suffering during my freestyle lap.
I just could not rotate my body as easily as I could do it in the sea.
And I am kicking way too much to stay afloat. =(
I really need to buck up on my swimming strokes.
*****
While waiting for the kids to come out from the showers, I started wondering how did I managed to complete races without swim training?
Would I fare better if I did swim training?
How did I even complete 1.9km Open Water Swim without training???
*****
Went to Novena Square to collect my Tri-Bike Race Pack before proceeding to Orchard Central.
Wanted to see what triathlon stuff did Mercury 180 carries. =)
Met up with Marc.
Hehe, dear old friend is now working for C. Good for ya, mate. =)
Manage to do 4 laps. 2 free, 2 breast.
I am suffering during my freestyle lap.
I just could not rotate my body as easily as I could do it in the sea.
And I am kicking way too much to stay afloat. =(
I really need to buck up on my swimming strokes.
*****
While waiting for the kids to come out from the showers, I started wondering how did I managed to complete races without swim training?
Would I fare better if I did swim training?
How did I even complete 1.9km Open Water Swim without training???
*****
Went to Novena Square to collect my Tri-Bike Race Pack before proceeding to Orchard Central.
Wanted to see what triathlon stuff did Mercury 180 carries. =)
Met up with Marc.
Hehe, dear old friend is now working for C. Good for ya, mate. =)
Friday, June 12, 2009
Cycling 12th June 2009
Woke up at 4am and am out of the house at 5am.
Truth be told, I just hate slopes.
Waking up at 4am, I have plenty of time to make it down to LH, but...
Legs are feeling fine today...
I should be able to achieve a good time at this Sunday's Tri-Bike. *Cross fingers*
Reached Mandai Shell and there is only Rocky Chris waiting at the re-grouping point.
Wah....where are all those Mandai Shell regulars?
Moving off along Woodlands Road, the pace is erratic.
24km/h??? And who are the leaders?
Dinah and another CWX rider...
After chionging along Mandai Road, the chiongsters had decided to do a easy ride now...
The point of group rides has totally been missed.
Time to make a difference.
I moved ahead to start pulling the group.
With Dinah and the CWX rider right behind me, no one is following my pace.
No worries. I just keep my pace constant at 26km/h.
It would seems like I am the crazy rider pushing the pace, but hey... I am doing only 26km/h!
At the KJE Flyover, Evelyn rode up and both of us did a nice steady pace ride.
Passing Rail Mall, an OCBC jersey rider suddenly upped the pace.
I mentioned to Evelyn, "He is pushing the pace, he is pushing the pace..."
Evelyn got the hint and we both maintained our constant 28km/h pace.
After a while, Evelyn decided to drop back...
Six riders overtook her, but none of them are pulling...
Evelyn ended up riding beside me again. Keke...
Evelyn sighed "I'm tired. I dun wan to pull the group liao, but seems like I have no choice."
Hell broke loose going up Hume Avenue.
This is understandable.
I am just glad that I managed to keep the group in check up to this juncture.
Riding along Bukit Timah, I know I am in for a sprint.
Baoying went into aero position and everyone started drafting her.
Vics were already way ahead of us, so I decided to give chase. Keke...
Vics is a relatively new to JoyRiders, but he is a very strong rider.
I could not catch up with him.
Never mind, that is not my agenda for the day. =)
Rode with Carol along Lornie Road and Thomson Road.
I decided not to ask the dumb question and quietly did Prata Hill and Sembawang Hills. =p
Bid Carol farewell and I proceed to do a Mandai mini-loop before proceeding home. =)
Truth be told, I just hate slopes.
Waking up at 4am, I have plenty of time to make it down to LH, but...
Legs are feeling fine today...
I should be able to achieve a good time at this Sunday's Tri-Bike. *Cross fingers*
Reached Mandai Shell and there is only Rocky Chris waiting at the re-grouping point.
Wah....where are all those Mandai Shell regulars?
Moving off along Woodlands Road, the pace is erratic.
24km/h??? And who are the leaders?
Dinah and another CWX rider...
After chionging along Mandai Road, the chiongsters had decided to do a easy ride now...
The point of group rides has totally been missed.
Time to make a difference.
I moved ahead to start pulling the group.
With Dinah and the CWX rider right behind me, no one is following my pace.
No worries. I just keep my pace constant at 26km/h.
It would seems like I am the crazy rider pushing the pace, but hey... I am doing only 26km/h!
At the KJE Flyover, Evelyn rode up and both of us did a nice steady pace ride.
Passing Rail Mall, an OCBC jersey rider suddenly upped the pace.
I mentioned to Evelyn, "He is pushing the pace, he is pushing the pace..."
Evelyn got the hint and we both maintained our constant 28km/h pace.
After a while, Evelyn decided to drop back...
Six riders overtook her, but none of them are pulling...
Evelyn ended up riding beside me again. Keke...
Evelyn sighed "I'm tired. I dun wan to pull the group liao, but seems like I have no choice."
Hell broke loose going up Hume Avenue.
This is understandable.
I am just glad that I managed to keep the group in check up to this juncture.
Riding along Bukit Timah, I know I am in for a sprint.
Baoying went into aero position and everyone started drafting her.
Vics were already way ahead of us, so I decided to give chase. Keke...
Vics is a relatively new to JoyRiders, but he is a very strong rider.
I could not catch up with him.
Never mind, that is not my agenda for the day. =)
Rode with Carol along Lornie Road and Thomson Road.
I decided not to ask the dumb question and quietly did Prata Hill and Sembawang Hills. =p
Bid Carol farewell and I proceed to do a Mandai mini-loop before proceeding home. =)
Aviva Ironman 70.3 Singapore 2010 Registration Opens
Interested to do the race again.
But first reaction from family is "What for?", "NO!".
Haha... shall have to KIV the race for now. =D
If you guys are interested, just sign up.
I will probably see you there.
Either as a competitor or spectator. =D
But first reaction from family is "What for?", "NO!".
Haha... shall have to KIV the race for now. =D
If you guys are interested, just sign up.
I will probably see you there.
Either as a competitor or spectator. =D
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Cycling 11th June 2009
Woke up at 1am and toss around in bed.
Could only catch forty winks for the next few hours before the ride.
The weather is just too warm and humid to get a good night's sleep.
After receiving Eugene's SMS that he won't be able to ride with me to LH, the ever-slacker me decided to ride to Mandai instead. =p
Along Mandai Road, I was able to maintain a high cadence.
Surprising, cos I have not ride for the past 6 days.
JR Express arrive not long after.
7 of us turned left, while the rest of the riders rode towards Kranji.
Being the last rider, I have some catching up to do.
YKK was about 50m in front of me, but no matter how I chase, I just could not close the gap!!!
My Tri-Bike race is finished... Done... even before it begin. =(
Oh boy, this is truly de-moralising...
Looking down at my cyclometer, I was surprised to see it registering 31km/h...
Keeping a steady pace, YKK keep pulling away!!!
Wah... this is a different YKK I am seeing today!
YKK is wearing cleats today!
I lost him under the KJE Flyover.
Count my lucky stars that I managed to catch up with the group at the Bukit Panjang cross junction.
Peter and Mike were nowhere in sight, they must have flew ahead of the group.
Riding with me were Grace, Mika, YKK and Vics.
Riding past Rail Mall, I found my legs and sprinted ahead.
Ahh... this is more like it.
Managed to maintain the lead until Bukit Timah where I caught up with Peter and Mike.
I was not ready for the second surprise of the day.
Along Bukit Timah straight, I wasn't able to keep up with Peter and Mike's pace!!!
In fact, they keep pulling away from me.
Wow, it looks like everyone is doing an ITT this morning.
Checks on my cyclometer showed 36km/h along the entire stretch!!!
Decided to give Lornie Road a miss and joined Peter and Mike on Dunearn Road.
Bidding Peter farewell as he continued towards town, Mike and I rode through Newton Road and Novena Road, back up north.
Mike is training for his Desaru LD Tri and IMWA.
All the best for your race, Mike!
While Mike turned towards Bishan, I proceed straight home.
With so little training, I truly hope I dun disappointmyself this Sunday. =(
Could only catch forty winks for the next few hours before the ride.
The weather is just too warm and humid to get a good night's sleep.
After receiving Eugene's SMS that he won't be able to ride with me to LH, the ever-slacker me decided to ride to Mandai instead. =p
Along Mandai Road, I was able to maintain a high cadence.
Surprising, cos I have not ride for the past 6 days.
JR Express arrive not long after.
7 of us turned left, while the rest of the riders rode towards Kranji.
Being the last rider, I have some catching up to do.
YKK was about 50m in front of me, but no matter how I chase, I just could not close the gap!!!
My Tri-Bike race is finished... Done... even before it begin. =(
Oh boy, this is truly de-moralising...
Looking down at my cyclometer, I was surprised to see it registering 31km/h...
Keeping a steady pace, YKK keep pulling away!!!
Wah... this is a different YKK I am seeing today!
YKK is wearing cleats today!
I lost him under the KJE Flyover.
Count my lucky stars that I managed to catch up with the group at the Bukit Panjang cross junction.
Peter and Mike were nowhere in sight, they must have flew ahead of the group.
Riding with me were Grace, Mika, YKK and Vics.
Riding past Rail Mall, I found my legs and sprinted ahead.
Ahh... this is more like it.
Managed to maintain the lead until Bukit Timah where I caught up with Peter and Mike.
I was not ready for the second surprise of the day.
Along Bukit Timah straight, I wasn't able to keep up with Peter and Mike's pace!!!
In fact, they keep pulling away from me.
Wow, it looks like everyone is doing an ITT this morning.
Checks on my cyclometer showed 36km/h along the entire stretch!!!
Decided to give Lornie Road a miss and joined Peter and Mike on Dunearn Road.
Bidding Peter farewell as he continued towards town, Mike and I rode through Newton Road and Novena Road, back up north.
Mike is training for his Desaru LD Tri and IMWA.
All the best for your race, Mike!
While Mike turned towards Bishan, I proceed straight home.
With so little training, I truly hope I dun disappointmyself this Sunday. =(
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
FOOLED!!!
No surprise that I missed today's ride again...
The alarm clocks were ringing, but the sound were even softer than that of a mouse squeak... =S
Changing the batteries this evening....
The alarm clocks were ringing, but the sound were even softer than that of a mouse squeak... =S
Changing the batteries this evening....
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Soul of the Marathon
The truth has finally sink in...
One cannot run a marathon without training for it...
I cycle and dun run, thinking that by maintaining my stamina, I will be able to pull through a full marathon.
I did what is best for my heart and legs, but I missed out on the soul.
Complete a marathon I did...
First few days, I had the satisfaction of completing a marathon...
But as the days goes by, I start getting the post race blues...
Deep inside, I know that I did not do a good marathon...
If only.... well, these are the past and I shan't dwell in those thoughts.
How will I be training for my next marathon?
*****
Now that I know where the problem lies...
Is that a good or bad thing?
One thing is for sure.
If I din cycle as much and as hard as I did, there is no way I can complete the marathon.
The training rides push me over the finish line, but only just...
Now that I know that the major problem is in my foot strides, I really have to focus on maintaining small strides.
One cannot run a marathon without training for it...
I cycle and dun run, thinking that by maintaining my stamina, I will be able to pull through a full marathon.
I did what is best for my heart and legs, but I missed out on the soul.
Complete a marathon I did...
First few days, I had the satisfaction of completing a marathon...
But as the days goes by, I start getting the post race blues...
Deep inside, I know that I did not do a good marathon...
If only.... well, these are the past and I shan't dwell in those thoughts.
How will I be training for my next marathon?
*****
Now that I know where the problem lies...
Is that a good or bad thing?
One thing is for sure.
If I din cycle as much and as hard as I did, there is no way I can complete the marathon.
The training rides push me over the finish line, but only just...
Now that I know that the major problem is in my foot strides, I really have to focus on maintaining small strides.
HICCUP!
Major Disaster!!!
Today was supposed to be a fun ride...
All my training buddies SMS-ed me last night.
First time, it ever happen.
Eugene, Weijie, Adrian, STP and me... it is going to be a blast.
And I have to OVERSLEEP!!! =S
Worse still, when I woke up at 5am, my body is still screaming for more sleep.
Think my body needs a long break.....
Strangely, I look forward to every ride, just that I can now sleep beyond two alarm clocks ringing by my ears....
Today was supposed to be a fun ride...
All my training buddies SMS-ed me last night.
First time, it ever happen.
Eugene, Weijie, Adrian, STP and me... it is going to be a blast.
And I have to OVERSLEEP!!! =S
Worse still, when I woke up at 5am, my body is still screaming for more sleep.
Think my body needs a long break.....
Strangely, I look forward to every ride, just that I can now sleep beyond two alarm clocks ringing by my ears....
Monday, June 8, 2009
1st Weekend of June 2009
Saturday
Given the good weather, I proceed to do a 20min run.
Intention is to complete a 10km run, but had to abort the run due to the shoes.
Somehow New Balance MR768 (Size 10.5) just dun seems to fit my feet well.
Will be selling the shoes in the forum.
If you know anyone who is interested in the shoes, do let me know.
Will give them a better price. =D
Sunday
While the kids were taking their afternoon nap, I prep myself for another run.
Alas, the weather has other plans and it started to pour. =(
Monday
Supposed to ride with STP this morning. But I snoozed the alarm clock and missed the ride.
Re-discovering Running
The calves still hurts today, but I think I have re-discovered my running.
The strides feels more natural and the knees do not hurt as much.
But I feel the need to run with compression tights and lightweight trainers.
Please dun let me lose this feeling....
Given the good weather, I proceed to do a 20min run.
Intention is to complete a 10km run, but had to abort the run due to the shoes.
Somehow New Balance MR768 (Size 10.5) just dun seems to fit my feet well.
Will be selling the shoes in the forum.
If you know anyone who is interested in the shoes, do let me know.
Will give them a better price. =D
Sunday
While the kids were taking their afternoon nap, I prep myself for another run.
Alas, the weather has other plans and it started to pour. =(
Monday
Supposed to ride with STP this morning. But I snoozed the alarm clock and missed the ride.
Re-discovering Running
The calves still hurts today, but I think I have re-discovered my running.
The strides feels more natural and the knees do not hurt as much.
But I feel the need to run with compression tights and lightweight trainers.
Please dun let me lose this feeling....
Lazy Saturday
Purposely did not set the alarm clock last night to see if I can skip today's ride.
Woke up at 5:30am.
Should I run or should I sleep? I chose sleep.
Woke up at 8am, I feel tired and lethargic. =S
The legs feel very tired too. It has been 4 days since I am out of my compression tights.
These tights really make a huge difference to your recovery, no matter what sports you take part in.
Woke up at 5:30am.
Should I run or should I sleep? I chose sleep.
Woke up at 8am, I feel tired and lethargic. =S
The legs feel very tired too. It has been 4 days since I am out of my compression tights.
These tights really make a huge difference to your recovery, no matter what sports you take part in.
Cycling 5th June 2009
Woke up at 4am.
Out riding at 5am. Making my way down to Mandai Shell...pace is good.
Looks like any residual effect of Sundown Marathon is well and truly gone.
Passing Mandai Hill Camp, a group of 5 CycleWorx riders rode past.
After a mundane ride, it will be kinda good to suck wheel for a while.
Decided to give chase.
Ended up overtaking the whole lot. =p
Not surprisingly, can spot one shadow right on my tail. =D
It was a nice sprint to the last bus stop before Mandai Shell. Wonderful workout for the heart, which sent the heart rate into the 80-95% zone. =D
After re-grouping, most of us turn left with a few brave souls turning right.
I find it hard catching up with the group and staying at their pace.
The legs must have not recover yet. =(
After a while... I felt that something is not right and looked down at the cyclometer. 34km/h?!?!
No wonder! The pace is insane...
Looking forward, I am not surprised to see who are the culprits.
The pullers are CWX riders.
Just after Rail Mall, they started slowing down, forcing the entire group to overtake them on the 2nd lane.
Geez, I really hate these CWX riders.
Up Hume Ave, I got dropped like a hot potato.
Argh... i am so not used to being dropped going up this slope.
Along Bukit Timah, we all rode at our own pace. I know Carol will catch up. =)
It did not take long for her to come alongside me after Lornie Flyover.
Joking and laughing up Thomson Flyover, I started to realise why I drag yourself out of bed at 4am in the morning.
You love what you are doing and you enjoy the camadiere that comes along with it.
Along Thomson Road...
"Do you wanna go by Old Upper Thomson Road?" I asked.
"You hate slopes, right?" Carol replied.
"Then let's climb!"
"Orh. =S"
Up Prata Hill and Sembawang Hills, we went. Bid Carol farewell and did another loop of Sembawang Hills before rolling home.
****
I started to wonder if one can do another race a week after a marathon?
I have quite a number of friends who completed Bintan OD Tri and race Sundown marathon the week after.
What if the race schedules are reversed?
Out riding at 5am. Making my way down to Mandai Shell...pace is good.
Looks like any residual effect of Sundown Marathon is well and truly gone.
Passing Mandai Hill Camp, a group of 5 CycleWorx riders rode past.
After a mundane ride, it will be kinda good to suck wheel for a while.
Decided to give chase.
Ended up overtaking the whole lot. =p
Not surprisingly, can spot one shadow right on my tail. =D
It was a nice sprint to the last bus stop before Mandai Shell. Wonderful workout for the heart, which sent the heart rate into the 80-95% zone. =D
After re-grouping, most of us turn left with a few brave souls turning right.
I find it hard catching up with the group and staying at their pace.
The legs must have not recover yet. =(
After a while... I felt that something is not right and looked down at the cyclometer. 34km/h?!?!
No wonder! The pace is insane...
Looking forward, I am not surprised to see who are the culprits.
The pullers are CWX riders.
Just after Rail Mall, they started slowing down, forcing the entire group to overtake them on the 2nd lane.
Geez, I really hate these CWX riders.
Up Hume Ave, I got dropped like a hot potato.
Argh... i am so not used to being dropped going up this slope.
Along Bukit Timah, we all rode at our own pace. I know Carol will catch up. =)
It did not take long for her to come alongside me after Lornie Flyover.
Joking and laughing up Thomson Flyover, I started to realise why I drag yourself out of bed at 4am in the morning.
You love what you are doing and you enjoy the camadiere that comes along with it.
Along Thomson Road...
"Do you wanna go by Old Upper Thomson Road?" I asked.
"You hate slopes, right?" Carol replied.
"Then let's climb!"
"Orh. =S"
Up Prata Hill and Sembawang Hills, we went. Bid Carol farewell and did another loop of Sembawang Hills before rolling home.
****
I started to wonder if one can do another race a week after a marathon?
I have quite a number of friends who completed Bintan OD Tri and race Sundown marathon the week after.
What if the race schedules are reversed?
5 days after a Marathon
Lost 3 kg and 1% fat.
No change in diet.
It did not drop right after the race.
When I weigh myself, I am still 101kg.
I feel bloated every morning too.
Are all the symptons common after a marathon?
No change in diet.
It did not drop right after the race.
When I weigh myself, I am still 101kg.
I feel bloated every morning too.
Are all the symptons common after a marathon?
Friday, June 5, 2009
Empty Feeling
Do you wake up in the morning asking yourself "What's next?"
It happen to me the last few mornings and the feeling truly sucks.
I wanna to stop taking part in races, stop signing up for more races.
I want to wake up late every morning.
I want to wake up thinking that I do not need to race next week. =(
It happen to me the last few mornings and the feeling truly sucks.
I wanna to stop taking part in races, stop signing up for more races.
I want to wake up late every morning.
I want to wake up thinking that I do not need to race next week. =(
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
The Journey
2.5 years ago, when I first start on this journey, I never thought I would have come this far.
Yes, I have set large targets along the way, but I think I am sensible enough to scale them down whenever I feel that I am not ready for the challenge.
Dreaming and achieving are two entirely different things.
2009 has been a good year for me...
I started a brand new year with a brand new strategy.
Do what I do best.
Cycling!
I targeted to do lots of cycling to compensate for my lack of swimming and running.
I know that without any training runs, I am going to suffer during my races.
But I am certain that I will not suffer as much if I just build up and maintain my stamina with lots of cycling.
I did morning rides to such an extent that I got emails from friends "Daniel, you rode again today?"
Races was part of the strategy. =)
Kinda of lucky that they have so many multi-sports races in the first half of the year.
After a failed MR25 Ultra Marathon 2007 and an un-satisfactory Let's Take A Walk 2008 (both races, I dropped out at the 32-33km mark), Sundown will be my third attempt at breaching the 40km mark in any running/walking events.
As with Aviva IM 70.3, I started SunDown with a clear mind.
Only target to complete, thus no anxiety.
How I managed that clear state of mind, I surprised even myself.
There is nothing during the start of both races that could made my heart beat that little faster.
It turns out to be a good thing, as I kept my focus on completing the race.
So what is next?
Full Ironman and Ultra-Marathons are not for me.
Thanks but no Thanks, LT. I know my limits.
I will keep on taking part in races and enjoy my races.
With my new found "like" for running, I will probably start incorporating running into my training.
Hopefully, I will be able to do just that and eventually PB all my races. =)
Right now, I will just sit back and enjoy the idyllic life. =)
*-*-*
When I first started on my journey, I weigh 108kg and looked like a 9-month pregnant man.
Although I am unable to lose my weight along the way, due to my insatiable appetite, I do look a whole lot better and definitely feel a lot better.
I enjoyed the full support of my extended family which I am thankful for.
I also had the encouragement of my friends who pushes me beyond where I thought it is possible.
Thanks, guys. =D
Yes, I have set large targets along the way, but I think I am sensible enough to scale them down whenever I feel that I am not ready for the challenge.
Dreaming and achieving are two entirely different things.
2009 has been a good year for me...
I started a brand new year with a brand new strategy.
Do what I do best.
Cycling!
I targeted to do lots of cycling to compensate for my lack of swimming and running.
I know that without any training runs, I am going to suffer during my races.
But I am certain that I will not suffer as much if I just build up and maintain my stamina with lots of cycling.
I did morning rides to such an extent that I got emails from friends "Daniel, you rode again today?"
Races was part of the strategy. =)
Kinda of lucky that they have so many multi-sports races in the first half of the year.
After a failed MR25 Ultra Marathon 2007 and an un-satisfactory Let's Take A Walk 2008 (both races, I dropped out at the 32-33km mark), Sundown will be my third attempt at breaching the 40km mark in any running/walking events.
As with Aviva IM 70.3, I started SunDown with a clear mind.
Only target to complete, thus no anxiety.
How I managed that clear state of mind, I surprised even myself.
There is nothing during the start of both races that could made my heart beat that little faster.
It turns out to be a good thing, as I kept my focus on completing the race.
So what is next?
Full Ironman and Ultra-Marathons are not for me.
Thanks but no Thanks, LT. I know my limits.
I will keep on taking part in races and enjoy my races.
With my new found "like" for running, I will probably start incorporating running into my training.
Hopefully, I will be able to do just that and eventually PB all my races. =)
Right now, I will just sit back and enjoy the idyllic life. =)
*-*-*
When I first started on my journey, I weigh 108kg and looked like a 9-month pregnant man.
Although I am unable to lose my weight along the way, due to my insatiable appetite, I do look a whole lot better and definitely feel a lot better.
I enjoyed the full support of my extended family which I am thankful for.
I also had the encouragement of my friends who pushes me beyond where I thought it is possible.
Thanks, guys. =D
Surreal
Staring out the MRT windows, the feeling is surreal.
In 3 months, I have completed two of my most coveted races.
Here I am...a morbid obese person completing two races which took at least 8 hours each to complete.
The most rewarding part of these races is that I enjoyed every part of both races and faced no major post-race problems that plagued other competitors.
Will I do either races again?
Well, the fingers ain't itchy for another punishing race anytime soon.
We shall wait and see.
Comparing HIM and FM, I find the HIM more fulfilling.
I guess the main attribute is that for HIM, I spend less time pounding the roads.
If anything good is to come out from Sundown, it is that I dunhate dislike running anymore.
It is just my least liked discipline. =)
In 3 months, I have completed two of my most coveted races.
Here I am...a morbid obese person completing two races which took at least 8 hours each to complete.
The most rewarding part of these races is that I enjoyed every part of both races and faced no major post-race problems that plagued other competitors.
Will I do either races again?
Well, the fingers ain't itchy for another punishing race anytime soon.
We shall wait and see.
Comparing HIM and FM, I find the HIM more fulfilling.
I guess the main attribute is that for HIM, I spend less time pounding the roads.
If anything good is to come out from Sundown, it is that I dun
It is just my least liked discipline. =)
Recovery Ride 1st June 2009
Woking up at 2am, I know I have to do this ride.
This is the only way I know how to deal with the muscle aches, post marathon.
Intention is to do a 24-25km/h pace, but was surprised that I could kept going at my constant JR pace along Mandai Shell.
Rating : Good Ride.
Tried to attack Hume Avenue but failed miserably.
The leg power are deserting me today.
Plan of the day, quit all the slopes and take the flattest route home.
Travelled along Dunearn Road, Newton Road and Thomson Road before hitting MaryMount Road for the home straight.
Turning into Newton Road, the left leg immediately started to heat up, I feel like I am about to cramp!!!
Hammer the thigh while cycling and did it all the way till I reached Marymount Road. =D
Rating : Nice Ride
It has been a long time since I felt my muscles aching while cycling. =D
In fact, it has been a long time since I have muscle aches!!!
Keke... I had not been having DOMS for a long long long time.
The magic potion? 2XU =D
It may not work for everyone, but it worked extremely well for me. =)
Sham always refers to it as Jodan 2XU internal system. =D
My wife noticed that I spent more time in 2XUs than I spent in my underwears. =D
Rating : Wonderful Ride.
****
Now I understand the importance of a solo ride after a major race.
You have no group pace to follow. It is just you and the roads.
Thanks to the two drivers that did not honk at me, but flash their headlights instead.
Sirs, you made my day.
This is the only way I know how to deal with the muscle aches, post marathon.
Intention is to do a 24-25km/h pace, but was surprised that I could kept going at my constant JR pace along Mandai Shell.
Rating : Good Ride.
Tried to attack Hume Avenue but failed miserably.
The leg power are deserting me today.
Plan of the day, quit all the slopes and take the flattest route home.
Travelled along Dunearn Road, Newton Road and Thomson Road before hitting MaryMount Road for the home straight.
Turning into Newton Road, the left leg immediately started to heat up, I feel like I am about to cramp!!!
Hammer the thigh while cycling and did it all the way till I reached Marymount Road. =D
Rating : Nice Ride
It has been a long time since I felt my muscles aching while cycling. =D
In fact, it has been a long time since I have muscle aches!!!
Keke... I had not been having DOMS for a long long long time.
The magic potion? 2XU =D
It may not work for everyone, but it worked extremely well for me. =)
Sham always refers to it as Jodan 2XU internal system. =D
My wife noticed that I spent more time in 2XUs than I spent in my underwears. =D
Rating : Wonderful Ride.
****
Now I understand the importance of a solo ride after a major race.
You have no group pace to follow. It is just you and the roads.
Thanks to the two drivers that did not honk at me, but flash their headlights instead.
Sirs, you made my day.
Post Marathon
12 hours after the marathon.
Muscles are feeling tight now, applied large doses of Counterpain before going to bed.
24 hours after the marathon.
Walking pretty normally to work.
36 hours after the marathon.
Bring it on!
I am ready for another marathon. =D
Post Marathon Thoughts
As expected, after every marathon someone has to bring up the cut-off timing issue.
Very nice of LT to respond.
Very nice of LT to respond.
Thanks, Tigger!!! =D
The forummers are getting very complex right now.
Some mentioned that those completing beyond 6hours are undeserving winners of the finisher medal and finisher tee.
Others debate about the terrible pacing by the pacers.
Haiz...are triathletes and runners really so different?
This is my observation.
I think most of you should have notice it too if you subscribe to both SGRunners and Trifam.
After every race, Trifammers always congratulated each other for a job well done.
No one ever broached the cut-off timing issue.
In SGRunners, the slower finishers ALWAYS come under fire.... WHY???
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Adidas Sundown Marathon Result
0-10km 1:31:06.34
10-20km 2:29:31.20
20-30km 1:59:14.65
30-42km 3:10:22.11
Total Time 9:10:14.30
10-20km 2:29:31.20
20-30km 1:59:14.65
30-42km 3:10:22.11
Total Time 9:10:14.30
Monday, June 1, 2009
Adidas SunDown Marathon
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!!
The Full Marathon is the last on my "To Do Races" list.
Much as I dislike running, this is a race that I have to do. =p
Am I glad with the timing? Well....NO!!!
Am I glad that I completed the race? Hell....YES!!!
I know that many marathoners dislike walkers like me, (Got a lot of feedback from the ultra-marathoners during the race.) but I won't let those negative comments deprive myself from enjoying the completion of the race.
The end results is even sweeter.
No cramps, No abrasions, No blisters and No black toes.
Hopefully I won't have DOMS and everything will be perfect. =D
Now for the race report.
Hitched a ride from Patricklsp and we were at the event site at around 10.30pm.
Since Alck's pace is comfortable for me, I decided to walk and chat with him.
Crossing the bridge into Kembangan Park Connector is like deja vu for me.
This was the route I took many moons ago in my attempt to cycle home from East Coast Park using the Park Connectors.
I know where the subsequent bridges and slopes are and the thought do not appeal to me at all.
Chatting with Alck distract me a lot from those negative thoughts.
Reached the first SGRunners support station in Kembangan PCN.
Waved hi and goodbye, only to be stopped for a photo. =)
HoHoRunner mentioned "You must try this!".
I relented and took the drink.
Aah...it is barley! Thanks, guys!
Moving on, we soon hit the second support station at Bedok Town Park.
While I treated myself to the longans, Alck decided to carry on. Thanks for the company, Alck.
Ohh...got to add...with company, the distance markers seems to pass by relatively fast. =)
Before moving on, DreamRunner insisted that I take a sng pao along. Thanks, guys!
Moving on, it is Bedok Reservoir.
Walking in the loose sand is tough, hopefully we do not need to cover three quarters of the loop.
(Served me right for not studying the route map. =p)
Met Yankee and Fennel at BR.
Walked together for a while before they decided to carry on running.
Stopping for a toliet break, I decided to have a rest at the bench.
Past Hendon Camp, a "Run to Eat" supporter told me 1km more.
Less than 100m away, a volunteer told me "Sir, 800m more"
Oh boy, how I wish they never tell me the distance left.
It does nothing but to disappoint you.
I know the final distance is probably 2km more.
Every building ahead looks like the Civil Service Club, so it is demoralising to know that CSC is a few blocks more. *Cry*
This last stretch of the marathon is getting really tough.
Was glad when the "real" Civil Service Club came into view.
Walking along, I hit the pedestrian bridge.
Wondering if the finishers would be kind enough to let me through first, I was surprised to find out that I had to make a huge detour reach the Finish Line.
"So near yet so far" has never sounds much clearer till now!!!
You can see the Finish Line across the bridge!
Making the final 400m walk, Zco ran past and shouted "Come on, Jodan!"
Thanks, mate. I shall try to walk this out. =D
Cos I fear I cramp if I run. =p
50m from the Finish Line, ST and LT were there to urge me on.
Haha, the Too Family seems to be everywhere along the course today. =D
Picking up courage, I make an easy 50m run to the Finish Line.
Lifting my arms up high, I wanted to have a nice photo taken of my first and last Full Marathon. =)
Proceed to collect the Finisher medal and Finisher Tee, before going to Changi Village for a well deserved breakfast with the Too Family.
After breakfast, LT gave me a lift to Pasir Ris where I took a bus home.
Thanks, LT.
The Full Marathon is the last on my "To Do Races" list.
Much as I dislike running, this is a race that I have to do. =p
Am I glad with the timing? Well....NO!!!
Am I glad that I completed the race? Hell....YES!!!
I know that many marathoners dislike walkers like me, (Got a lot of feedback from the ultra-marathoners during the race.) but I won't let those negative comments deprive myself from enjoying the completion of the race.
The end results is even sweeter.
No cramps, No abrasions, No blisters and No black toes.
Hopefully I won't have DOMS and everything will be perfect. =D
Now for the race report.
Hitched a ride from Patricklsp and we were at the event site at around 10.30pm.
Thanks, Patrick. =)
Trying something new for this race.
My improvised Wright-Injinji Socks. =D
After my DNF during "Let's Take A Walk" last December, I am not keen to get blisters again.
Coated my feet with a thick layer of Vaseline before putting on 2 pairs of socks.
I will be wearing my K14 for this race, after figuring out what went wrong during AHM last year.
Prep for the race before depositing my bag at the Baggage Deposit Counter.
To make this race an enjoyable experience, I am ready to go kiasu.
1) Vaseline to prevent chafing at the armpits.
2) Shades, in case of rain.
3) Halo Headband
4) UD race belt (1 pouch for gels, 1 pouch for phone cum MP3 player)
5) Fanny pouch for extra gels and basic emergency kit)
6) 2XU Long Compression Tights
7) Insect Repellant
Met Donna and we proceed to the Start Line together.
ST and Tao were right behind us.
11:59pm, the horn sounds and off we go.
Haha... no anxiety, no BIG moment feeling... Is this good or bad? =D
In the first km, I was feeling good and I start to run away from the three ladies.
I know this is not good, but somehow I just do not know how to slow down.
The trio eventually overtook at the 1km mark.
The first water point is at the 4km mark.
There are only 2 tables available.
Aiyoh, why do they never learn their lesson?
There was a lot of feedback last year about the insufficient tables at the first few aid stations.
The volunteers has a hard time coping with the flood of runners getting to their drinks.
It makes more sense to have longer rows of tables at the first few aid stations and shorter rows of tables thereafter as the runners would have spread out after the first 10km.
Slowly see the 4:30, , 5:00, 5:30, 6:00 pacers ran past me.
Demoralising man... =D
But what more can I expect when my training mileage looks like a hard boiled egg. =p
Swollen hands after 5km.
Trying something new for this race.
My improvised Wright-Injinji Socks. =D
After my DNF during "Let's Take A Walk" last December, I am not keen to get blisters again.
Coated my feet with a thick layer of Vaseline before putting on 2 pairs of socks.
I will be wearing my K14 for this race, after figuring out what went wrong during AHM last year.
Prep for the race before depositing my bag at the Baggage Deposit Counter.
To make this race an enjoyable experience, I am ready to go kiasu.
1) Vaseline to prevent chafing at the armpits.
2) Shades, in case of rain.
3) Halo Headband
4) UD race belt (1 pouch for gels, 1 pouch for phone cum MP3 player)
5) Fanny pouch for extra gels and basic emergency kit)
6) 2XU Long Compression Tights
7) Insect Repellant
Met Donna and we proceed to the Start Line together.
ST and Tao were right behind us.
11:59pm, the horn sounds and off we go.
Haha... no anxiety, no BIG moment feeling... Is this good or bad? =D
In the first km, I was feeling good and I start to run away from the three ladies.
I know this is not good, but somehow I just do not know how to slow down.
The trio eventually overtook at the 1km mark.
The first water point is at the 4km mark.
There are only 2 tables available.
Aiyoh, why do they never learn their lesson?
There was a lot of feedback last year about the insufficient tables at the first few aid stations.
The volunteers has a hard time coping with the flood of runners getting to their drinks.
It makes more sense to have longer rows of tables at the first few aid stations and shorter rows of tables thereafter as the runners would have spread out after the first 10km.
Slowly see the 4:30, , 5:00, 5:30, 6:00 pacers ran past me.
Demoralising man... =D
But what more can I expect when my training mileage looks like a hard boiled egg. =p
Swollen hands after 5km.
This was the first time I had swollen hands and it felt really uncomfortable.
The rest of the race, I was raising my arms occasionally to ease the pain.
Caught KenMailBox1 resting at one of the Changi Coastal Road bench.
The chap is doing his 2nd loop and is taking a rest. Well done, man.
At the 9km mark, I was feeling good and I was estimating that I should be able to complete the race within 7 hours.
Stop at 10km to chit chat with Raphael and Cherylene.
HUGE Mistake for the day.
The momentum is totally gone.
With the engine coming to a full stop, things are a whole lot tougher.
Not long after, BFG caught up with me.
We chat about his Bintan Tri experience.
Got to know from him that Bintan Tri slow finishers do not get finisher's medal?!?!
DISCRIMINATION!!!
Oh well, that is another race. Won't let the new finding affect me. =D
Now I just need to finish THIS race. =D
After a while, I feel the need to walk, so I told BFG to go ahead.
Nice talking to you, BFG. =D
Things got real tough after 15km, the legs are aching and I am starting to wonder if I can carry on for another 27km.
Oh boy, this is one of the toughest run I have ever encountered.
Somehow, last year's AHM dun seems so bad anymore.
The rest of the race, I was raising my arms occasionally to ease the pain.
Caught KenMailBox1 resting at one of the Changi Coastal Road bench.
The chap is doing his 2nd loop and is taking a rest. Well done, man.
At the 9km mark, I was feeling good and I was estimating that I should be able to complete the race within 7 hours.
Stop at 10km to chit chat with Raphael and Cherylene.
HUGE Mistake for the day.
The momentum is totally gone.
With the engine coming to a full stop, things are a whole lot tougher.
Not long after, BFG caught up with me.
We chat about his Bintan Tri experience.
Got to know from him that Bintan Tri slow finishers do not get finisher's medal?!?!
DISCRIMINATION!!!
Oh well, that is another race. Won't let the new finding affect me. =D
Now I just need to finish THIS race. =D
After a while, I feel the need to walk, so I told BFG to go ahead.
Nice talking to you, BFG. =D
Things got real tough after 15km, the legs are aching and I am starting to wonder if I can carry on for another 27km.
Oh boy, this is one of the toughest run I have ever encountered.
Somehow, last year's AHM dun seems so bad anymore.
Pushing on, I am glad that the 2XU is working great.
It really relieve the legs of the pain and aches.
But it brought on a whole new set of problems.
I realised that I could not hold my water intake and feel the need to relieve myself a kilometer after every water point.
In East Coast Park, it is not a huge problem, but once the route goes out of East Coast Park, I know I am in BIG trouble.
Took my first rest at the 16km mark.
Took the time to check myself out.
Everything seems to be A-okay...
It really relieve the legs of the pain and aches.
But it brought on a whole new set of problems.
I realised that I could not hold my water intake and feel the need to relieve myself a kilometer after every water point.
In East Coast Park, it is not a huge problem, but once the route goes out of East Coast Park, I know I am in BIG trouble.
Took my first rest at the 16km mark.
Took the time to check myself out.
Everything seems to be A-okay...
Other than the swollen hands, the thighs, calves and feet ain't giving me any problems. *Cross fingers*
At the 18km mark, Kelvin and Desmond shouted out for me coming from the return leg.
They told me that there is no timing mat at the Big Splash U-turn.
Kelvin and Desmond tempted me to turn around early, but I know I won't be at peace with myself if I cheated, so I bid them goodbye and soldier on. =)
Did the U-turn at Big Splash.
While running towards the 21km mark, saw Prata running with a huge plastic bag at blazing speed.
Geez...dun tell me he is covering the marathon distance as a supporter!
Just before the 21km mark, Alck caught up with me.
He is doing his second loop of his second Sundown Marathon. Well done, mate.
He is encountering some pain and has decided to walk for the next half-marathon distance.
Personal Note : Worse 21km ever ran/walk.
At the 18km mark, Kelvin and Desmond shouted out for me coming from the return leg.
They told me that there is no timing mat at the Big Splash U-turn.
Kelvin and Desmond tempted me to turn around early, but I know I won't be at peace with myself if I cheated, so I bid them goodbye and soldier on. =)
Did the U-turn at Big Splash.
While running towards the 21km mark, saw Prata running with a huge plastic bag at blazing speed.
Geez...dun tell me he is covering the marathon distance as a supporter!
Just before the 21km mark, Alck caught up with me.
He is doing his second loop of his second Sundown Marathon. Well done, mate.
He is encountering some pain and has decided to walk for the next half-marathon distance.
Personal Note : Worse 21km ever ran/walk.
Reset my expectation to do a sub-9hr now.
At the pace I am going, Sub 8:30 feels highly attainable.
Since Alck's pace is comfortable for me, I decided to walk and chat with him.
Crossing the bridge into Kembangan Park Connector is like deja vu for me.
This was the route I took many moons ago in my attempt to cycle home from East Coast Park using the Park Connectors.
I know where the subsequent bridges and slopes are and the thought do not appeal to me at all.
Chatting with Alck distract me a lot from those negative thoughts.
Reached the first SGRunners support station in Kembangan PCN.
Waved hi and goodbye, only to be stopped for a photo. =)
HoHoRunner mentioned "You must try this!".
I relented and took the drink.
Aah...it is barley! Thanks, guys!
Moving on, we soon hit the second support station at Bedok Town Park.
While I treated myself to the longans, Alck decided to carry on. Thanks for the company, Alck.
Ohh...got to add...with company, the distance markers seems to pass by relatively fast. =)
Before moving on, DreamRunner insisted that I take a sng pao along. Thanks, guys!
Moving on, it is Bedok Reservoir.
Walking in the loose sand is tough, hopefully we do not need to cover three quarters of the loop.
(Served me right for not studying the route map. =p)
Met Yankee and Fennel at BR.
Walked together for a while before they decided to carry on running.
Stopping for a toliet break, I decided to have a rest at the bench.
Unknowingly, I dozed off!!!
Got woken up by a shout "Daniel! Daniel!"
Looking around I do not see anyone.
Okay, I am spooked.
"Behind you lah".
Turning around, I still see no one.
My blood starts to run cold.
Looking around I do not see anyone.
Okay, I am spooked.
"Behind you lah".
Turning around, I still see no one.
My blood starts to run cold.
"Right behind you!"
This time, I jumped up and looked around.
Ahh... It is Kelvin standing outside the toilet.
This is his pit stop where he got a change of clothes and socks.
Thanks for waking me up.
If not, I am pretty certain that I will be seeing daylight when I wake up. =)
Moving on, I am looking forward to see the guys at the Tampines Shell support station.
Passing Tampines Central, I am hoping that they are still there. (It is almost 7am.)
Seeing the Shell station but not seeing the support table, I start feeling down.
Can't blame them though.
It has been an extremely long night.
Imagine my delight when I spotted them further down the PCN...
My first thoughts?
This time, I jumped up and looked around.
Ahh... It is Kelvin standing outside the toilet.
This is his pit stop where he got a change of clothes and socks.
Thanks for waking me up.
If not, I am pretty certain that I will be seeing daylight when I wake up. =)
Moving on, I am looking forward to see the guys at the Tampines Shell support station.
Passing Tampines Central, I am hoping that they are still there. (It is almost 7am.)
Seeing the Shell station but not seeing the support table, I start feeling down.
Can't blame them though.
It has been an extremely long night.
Imagine my delight when I spotted them further down the PCN...
My first thoughts?
I want to hug each and everyone of you.
You guys are angels!!!
Had a cup of black coffee and a bar of Snickers before moving on.
Hoplng passed me another Snickers for me to conquer the Loyang slopes.
"Eat this before the slope and you can chiong up the slope" Hoplng said.
Thanks for everything, guys.
Immediately after the support table, I found the legs to run till the bridge.
Hmm... maybe race organisers can seriously consider offering black coffee at aid stations in the future. =p
Met Burnz in Pasir Ris PCN.
How this guy train for the Ultra and study for his exams, I got no clue.
Kudos to you, mate.
Moving on, I reached Pasir Ris Drive 3.
Brokie house is straight ahead.
Had a cup of black coffee and a bar of Snickers before moving on.
Hoplng passed me another Snickers for me to conquer the Loyang slopes.
"Eat this before the slope and you can chiong up the slope" Hoplng said.
Thanks for everything, guys.
Immediately after the support table, I found the legs to run till the bridge.
Hmm... maybe race organisers can seriously consider offering black coffee at aid stations in the future. =p
Met Burnz in Pasir Ris PCN.
How this guy train for the Ultra and study for his exams, I got no clue.
Kudos to you, mate.
Moving on, I reached Pasir Ris Drive 3.
Brokie house is straight ahead.
Hmm... will she be offering her BHB like what she did during LTAW last year.
Sadly, she is not at the bus stop. =(
Hehe, I admit...I am asking for too much. *Smack head* =p
Just before the Loyang slope, I am surprised to see that the Kembangan support team has shifted base here!
You guys are wonderful.
Had a milo before moving on.
While sipping on my Milo, Piglet asked "How many marathons have u done?"
Was met with a raised eyebrow when I answered "First Marathon"
"But I thought you did races like HIM", she said.
"Oh...that is different", I responded. =p
LT readily agreed with me.
Keke, being one of my loyal blog readers, LT knows how I train for races. =D =p
Geez, My experience for my 40km Route March is much better than this. =D
The pace is a lot faster as well.
Haha... if only I was 15 years younger. =p
Up till this point, the legs is just aching, there is no cry for CounterPain. which I find surprising. =p
Must go for Recovery Ride to loosen the muscles on Monday though.
After conquering the Pasir Ris slope, we turned into Loyang Ave.
I thought it should be easier from now on, cos it is mostly downhills or gentle slopes.
How wrong can I get?
The last 4km turned out to be the hardest part of the whole race.
One really need that mental strength to pull it through.
The end seems so near, yet the Finish Line seems so unreachable.
8 am, my Garmin decided to call it a day.
Darn, why do Garmin battery test have to be that accurate.
How I wish FR405 could just last an hour more. =(
I am walking blind now. =(
Sadly, she is not at the bus stop. =(
Hehe, I admit...I am asking for too much. *Smack head* =p
Just before the Loyang slope, I am surprised to see that the Kembangan support team has shifted base here!
You guys are wonderful.
Had a milo before moving on.
While sipping on my Milo, Piglet asked "How many marathons have u done?"
Was met with a raised eyebrow when I answered "First Marathon"
"But I thought you did races like HIM", she said.
"Oh...that is different", I responded. =p
LT readily agreed with me.
Keke, being one of my loyal blog readers, LT knows how I train for races. =D =p
Geez, My experience for my 40km Route March is much better than this. =D
The pace is a lot faster as well.
Haha... if only I was 15 years younger. =p
Up till this point, the legs is just aching, there is no cry for CounterPain. which I find surprising. =p
Must go for Recovery Ride to loosen the muscles on Monday though.
After conquering the Pasir Ris slope, we turned into Loyang Ave.
I thought it should be easier from now on, cos it is mostly downhills or gentle slopes.
How wrong can I get?
The last 4km turned out to be the hardest part of the whole race.
One really need that mental strength to pull it through.
The end seems so near, yet the Finish Line seems so unreachable.
8 am, my Garmin decided to call it a day.
Darn, why do Garmin battery test have to be that accurate.
How I wish FR405 could just last an hour more. =(
I am walking blind now. =(
Past Hendon Camp, a "Run to Eat" supporter told me 1km more.
Less than 100m away, a volunteer told me "Sir, 800m more"
Oh boy, how I wish they never tell me the distance left.
It does nothing but to disappoint you.
I know the final distance is probably 2km more.
Every building ahead looks like the Civil Service Club, so it is demoralising to know that CSC is a few blocks more. *Cry*
This last stretch of the marathon is getting really tough.
Was glad when the "real" Civil Service Club came into view.
Walking along, I hit the pedestrian bridge.
Wondering if the finishers would be kind enough to let me through first, I was surprised to find out that I had to make a huge detour reach the Finish Line.
"So near yet so far" has never sounds much clearer till now!!!
You can see the Finish Line across the bridge!
Making the final 400m walk, Zco ran past and shouted "Come on, Jodan!"
Thanks, mate. I shall try to walk this out. =D
Cos I fear I cramp if I run. =p
50m from the Finish Line, ST and LT were there to urge me on.
Haha, the Too Family seems to be everywhere along the course today. =D
Picking up courage, I make an easy 50m run to the Finish Line.
Lifting my arms up high, I wanted to have a nice photo taken of my first and last Full Marathon. =)
Proceed to collect the Finisher medal and Finisher Tee, before going to Changi Village for a well deserved breakfast with the Too Family.
After breakfast, LT gave me a lift to Pasir Ris where I took a bus home.
Thanks, LT.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)