Monday, May 31, 2010
Biggest Loser Matt Hoover finishes Ironman Triathlon
Whenever you feel down and out, there is always another inspiring story to spur you on.
Sundown Marathon Official Results
10km - 01:27:59 ( 8:48 min/km)
21km - 03:38:03 (13:00 min/km)
30km - 05:41:44 (12:22 min/km)
Full Marathon - 08:32:33 (14:00 min/km for the last 12km)
Sad or Happy?
Sad - Was hoping for a better timing
Happy - Met the cut-off time.
Again, there is a flood of complaints against walkers.
Haiz... why dun these guys go and organise and run their own marathons.
If wanna complain, then dun join.
If wanna join, then dun complain.
I cannot believe that some Ultra-marathoners are in the mix as well.
Ain't the ultra journey more important and satisfying than complaining about the full marathoners?
21km - 03:38:03 (13:00 min/km)
30km - 05:41:44 (12:22 min/km)
Full Marathon - 08:32:33 (14:00 min/km for the last 12km)
Sad or Happy?
Sad - Was hoping for a better timing
Happy - Met the cut-off time.
Again, there is a flood of complaints against walkers.
Haiz... why dun these guys go and organise and run their own marathons.
If wanna complain, then dun join.
If wanna join, then dun complain.
I cannot believe that some Ultra-marathoners are in the mix as well.
Ain't the ultra journey more important and satisfying than complaining about the full marathoners?
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Sundown Marathon 2010
NIL SINE LABORE.
How apt.
Grim remainder that there is no shortcut to success.
Without training, I was still hoping to achieve a good time for my third marathon.
Fat Hope!
After taking my wife's 爱心晚餐, I proceed to Pasir Ris to take the shuttle bus to the race site.
It was a long wait and we were on the 4th or 5th bus.
Reached race site with some time to spare.
Some final preparation, I am good to go.
ST really knows how to snake through the crowd and we got ourselves quite a nice spot in the middle of the pack.
After crossing the Start Line, everyone started running and I follow suit.
Was looking out for my friends coming in for their Half-Marathon.
Turns out to be a good thing, as it distracted me and I paced myself quite well.
Managed to run the first 5km without stopping. Surprise!!!
5km to 21km was a run-walk strategy.
Kinda of work out well for me.
First hydration station is plain water.
Second hydration has both 100-Plus and plain water.
Never had I expected that it would be the last hydration station where I will see 100-Plus!!! OMG!!!
It din bother me though, cos I had stitches after downing the 100-Plus.
Hmm... my body is rejecting 100-Plus for races this year... Wonder why...
Spotted Tigger with Ray and Aili as his pacers.
Haha, got complained for walking, so I started running. =D
Anyway, my walking pace cannot match theirs, so running seems a better option.
Entering East Coast Park , I spotted Raihan.
Was surprised when Raihan started running backwards.
Turned out, Raihan is trying to take my photo.
Thanks, bro!
Spotted the SGRunners Support Station at CarPark F2, but I din stop.
For fear that if I did, the engine may die...
Waved to them and soldier on...
Spotted Baoying. She is way ahead of the rest of the pack!
Baoying and Rachel (think I got the right person) wore the same look. Their focused blank stares look scary at times.
Next came Gia Yee, Jac (Ultra), Rynn, Kia Liang and Brian.
Brian looks to be suffering pretty badly though.
Think GY and I spotted each other, but given the bad lighting, it was too late when we tried to greet each other.
Jac? I din see her till someone else shouted out to her. =D She could even pose for the cameras! =D
The good thing about East Coast Park is that you know what lies ahead.
Everyone has run up and down the park so often that we can judge the distances pretty well.
Din smell much of the oil slick fumes till there was a sea breeze around Burger King.
Oh boy, it sure stink....
The smell is soon forgotten after we got used to it. Is that a good sign or bad, I dunno.
I was so glad when I completed 21km.
It is now a matter of counting down the distance.
A PB looks in sight.
After a sub-10min/km pace for the first 21km, I am full of hope.
4.5 hours to clear the next 21km.
Soon after the U-turn, I was assessing my position.
I am looking good. A lot of runners still behind me.
Even more runners than SCSM 2009. But SCSM 2009, I started 30 minutes late, so it could be a similar grouping.
Seeing friends on the opposite end gives me hope.
Roland, Victor, BFG (Ultra), Chris (Ultra), Chris and Lek Meng in that order.
I know all of them will pass me before the Finish Line, it is just a matter of where and when. =p
A feel of my hands and they were fine.
No water retention problem after 21km.
Even after consuming 4 cups of water per station, I was pleasantly surprised that I am skipping all port-a-loos. Interesting...
Haiz... sometimes things are better left unspoken...
Swollen hands hits after the 22km mark.
Major catastrophe struck at 22km!
The thighs started complaining...
Argh... what could be happening?
The WALL? The dreaded Wall?
Feel like giving up there and then.
I am not going to complete another 18km in this state.
Serves me right for no training. *Kicking myself in the butt*
It wasn't till the 23km that I realise what happened... Grr....
I forgot to consume my GU gel!!!
Argh... such an important thing... How can I forget?
Sleepiness, tiredness? Haha, still can find energy to place blame. =d
Thighs are complaining, but my calves ain't.
Keke... seems like my compression-in-compression strategy is working.
Moreover, the Booster calf-guards are not irritating my skin, which is a wonderful sign!
Haha... another new item? A running tee for a full marathon.
I got so much faith in the brand that I know it will pull me through.
It will disperse the heat and retain the warmth well.
The sleeves din work too well though, and I got it rolled up after 8km.
And the best advantage of all? It will look good for the cameras. =p
Cannot finish fast, but can look good right? =D
My timings are screwing up big time.
15min/km... Gosh... this is horrendous.
Tried to do a 12min/km pace but unable to so.
Started counting my odds of completing within the cut-off time.
I have to keep going at 15min/km pace for the rest of the journey and I would have 15 mins to spare.
So I can afford total break times of no more than 15mins.
Checking the pace on the watch is nerve wrecking. I switch to watch mode after 30km.
This second half of the marathon is truly mental.
Coupled with mental fatigue, it took me a while to know where I am.
I missed almost all the East Coast break stations.
The shoes are holding well.
Haha... only last year, I am lamenting how runners can wear Newtons to do a full marathon.
Yet today, I am one of them and I see a lot more runners doing the same thing. =D
30km station, I had a banana.
Unexpected but nice.
Overheard a volunteer saying "This is a hard-earned $30"
When you are mentally tired, nothing else seems to matter.
You just wanna get it over and done with.
The gazebos along Changi Coastal Road are a more accurate distance indicator than the !@#$%^ distance markers.
Each gazebo is set 1km apart.
I keep forgetting the last distance marker I crossed and have to rely on my watch.
The entrance into Aviation Road will mark the last 2km of the arduous journey.
My pace has been good for the last 2km and I intended to keep it that way.
Past quite a number of walkers along the way.
Overtook another walker along Aviation Road and started a chat.
Anything to keep your mind off the distance is a good thing and 1.5km past by very quickly.
Seeing that Neo intended to run to the Finish Line, I said my byes and urged him ahead.
About 50m to the Finish, I started my own jog and am glad and relieved to pass the Finish Line. =)
Quickly collected my bag and went to queue up for the Shuttle Bus.
With 1 hour to spare before Shuttle Bus cut-off, I am not optimistic.
Given the bloody cost-cutting measures that Hi-Velocity takes, we may not even have a shuttle bus after an hour.
Chatted with Zco and D-minus while waiting for the bus.
Think we took the last bus out of Changi Exhibition Center and there is still about 3-4 bus loads to handle.
I wonder how Ben is going to handle this.
Reached White Sands and the recovery journey started.
The steps down from the bus is painful and the walk to the bus stop is slow but rewarding.
Slept most of the way on the bus and is lucky not to miss my alighting bus stop.
After a hot shower, system went into shutdown mode. =D
Overall, a painful marathon.
A marathon that gives me more reason to give up my Ironman Dream...
How apt.
Grim remainder that there is no shortcut to success.
Without training, I was still hoping to achieve a good time for my third marathon.
Fat Hope!
After taking my wife's 爱心晚餐, I proceed to Pasir Ris to take the shuttle bus to the race site.
It was a long wait and we were on the 4th or 5th bus.
Reached race site with some time to spare.
Some final preparation, I am good to go.
ST really knows how to snake through the crowd and we got ourselves quite a nice spot in the middle of the pack.
After crossing the Start Line, everyone started running and I follow suit.
Was looking out for my friends coming in for their Half-Marathon.
Turns out to be a good thing, as it distracted me and I paced myself quite well.
Managed to run the first 5km without stopping. Surprise!!!
5km to 21km was a run-walk strategy.
Kinda of work out well for me.
First hydration station is plain water.
Second hydration has both 100-Plus and plain water.
Never had I expected that it would be the last hydration station where I will see 100-Plus!!! OMG!!!
It din bother me though, cos I had stitches after downing the 100-Plus.
Hmm... my body is rejecting 100-Plus for races this year... Wonder why...
Spotted Tigger with Ray and Aili as his pacers.
Haha, got complained for walking, so I started running. =D
Anyway, my walking pace cannot match theirs, so running seems a better option.
Entering East Coast Park , I spotted Raihan.
Was surprised when Raihan started running backwards.
Turned out, Raihan is trying to take my photo.
Thanks, bro!
Spotted the SGRunners Support Station at CarPark F2, but I din stop.
For fear that if I did, the engine may die...
Waved to them and soldier on...
Spotted Baoying. She is way ahead of the rest of the pack!
Baoying and Rachel (think I got the right person) wore the same look. Their focused blank stares look scary at times.
Next came Gia Yee, Jac (Ultra), Rynn, Kia Liang and Brian.
Brian looks to be suffering pretty badly though.
Think GY and I spotted each other, but given the bad lighting, it was too late when we tried to greet each other.
Jac? I din see her till someone else shouted out to her. =D She could even pose for the cameras! =D
The good thing about East Coast Park is that you know what lies ahead.
Everyone has run up and down the park so often that we can judge the distances pretty well.
Din smell much of the oil slick fumes till there was a sea breeze around Burger King.
Oh boy, it sure stink....
The smell is soon forgotten after we got used to it. Is that a good sign or bad, I dunno.
I was so glad when I completed 21km.
It is now a matter of counting down the distance.
A PB looks in sight.
After a sub-10min/km pace for the first 21km, I am full of hope.
4.5 hours to clear the next 21km.
Soon after the U-turn, I was assessing my position.
I am looking good. A lot of runners still behind me.
Even more runners than SCSM 2009. But SCSM 2009, I started 30 minutes late, so it could be a similar grouping.
Seeing friends on the opposite end gives me hope.
Roland, Victor, BFG (Ultra), Chris (Ultra), Chris and Lek Meng in that order.
I know all of them will pass me before the Finish Line, it is just a matter of where and when. =p
A feel of my hands and they were fine.
No water retention problem after 21km.
Even after consuming 4 cups of water per station, I was pleasantly surprised that I am skipping all port-a-loos. Interesting...
Haiz... sometimes things are better left unspoken...
Swollen hands hits after the 22km mark.
Major catastrophe struck at 22km!
The thighs started complaining...
Argh... what could be happening?
The WALL? The dreaded Wall?
Feel like giving up there and then.
I am not going to complete another 18km in this state.
Serves me right for no training. *Kicking myself in the butt*
It wasn't till the 23km that I realise what happened... Grr....
I forgot to consume my GU gel!!!
Argh... such an important thing... How can I forget?
Sleepiness, tiredness? Haha, still can find energy to place blame. =d
Thighs are complaining, but my calves ain't.
Keke... seems like my compression-in-compression strategy is working.
Moreover, the Booster calf-guards are not irritating my skin, which is a wonderful sign!
Haha... another new item? A running tee for a full marathon.
I got so much faith in the brand that I know it will pull me through.
It will disperse the heat and retain the warmth well.
The sleeves din work too well though, and I got it rolled up after 8km.
And the best advantage of all? It will look good for the cameras. =p
Cannot finish fast, but can look good right? =D
My timings are screwing up big time.
15min/km... Gosh... this is horrendous.
Tried to do a 12min/km pace but unable to so.
Started counting my odds of completing within the cut-off time.
I have to keep going at 15min/km pace for the rest of the journey and I would have 15 mins to spare.
So I can afford total break times of no more than 15mins.
Checking the pace on the watch is nerve wrecking. I switch to watch mode after 30km.
This second half of the marathon is truly mental.
Coupled with mental fatigue, it took me a while to know where I am.
I missed almost all the East Coast break stations.
The shoes are holding well.
Haha... only last year, I am lamenting how runners can wear Newtons to do a full marathon.
Yet today, I am one of them and I see a lot more runners doing the same thing. =D
30km station, I had a banana.
Unexpected but nice.
Overheard a volunteer saying "This is a hard-earned $30"
When you are mentally tired, nothing else seems to matter.
You just wanna get it over and done with.
The gazebos along Changi Coastal Road are a more accurate distance indicator than the !@#$%^ distance markers.
Each gazebo is set 1km apart.
I keep forgetting the last distance marker I crossed and have to rely on my watch.
The entrance into Aviation Road will mark the last 2km of the arduous journey.
My pace has been good for the last 2km and I intended to keep it that way.
Past quite a number of walkers along the way.
Overtook another walker along Aviation Road and started a chat.
Anything to keep your mind off the distance is a good thing and 1.5km past by very quickly.
Seeing that Neo intended to run to the Finish Line, I said my byes and urged him ahead.
About 50m to the Finish, I started my own jog and am glad and relieved to pass the Finish Line. =)
Quickly collected my bag and went to queue up for the Shuttle Bus.
With 1 hour to spare before Shuttle Bus cut-off, I am not optimistic.
Given the bloody cost-cutting measures that Hi-Velocity takes, we may not even have a shuttle bus after an hour.
Chatted with Zco and D-minus while waiting for the bus.
Think we took the last bus out of Changi Exhibition Center and there is still about 3-4 bus loads to handle.
I wonder how Ben is going to handle this.
Reached White Sands and the recovery journey started.
The steps down from the bus is painful and the walk to the bus stop is slow but rewarding.
Slept most of the way on the bus and is lucky not to miss my alighting bus stop.
After a hot shower, system went into shutdown mode. =D
Overall, a painful marathon.
A marathon that gives me more reason to give up my Ironman Dream...
Saturday, May 29, 2010
6 hours to D-Day
Forced to make some tactical changes.
Given the impending rain forecast, I decided to change my shoe selection.
Out goes Kayanos, Hello Newtons.
The reason is simple.
If it rains, the weight of the shoes is going to be a significant issue.
Of my 3 pairs of shoes, Newtons is the only pair that does not retain much water.
Also my eyes hurt, so out goes the contact lenses...
The ankles hurt after the Vesak Day outing, but after an afternoon nap, it felt much better.
Given the impending rain forecast, I decided to change my shoe selection.
Out goes Kayanos, Hello Newtons.
The reason is simple.
If it rains, the weight of the shoes is going to be a significant issue.
Of my 3 pairs of shoes, Newtons is the only pair that does not retain much water.
Also my eyes hurt, so out goes the contact lenses...
The ankles hurt after the Vesak Day outing, but after an afternoon nap, it felt much better.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
48 hours to D-Day
Have you ever wonder if one MRT station is too near to travel by train?
Would you rather walk the distance?
Did just that a while ago and I am glad I did.
Started walking and I have time to clear my mind and reflect on the past and think of the gruelling challenge ahead.
Do you notice that I tends to draw a parallel between my army life and my triathlete pastime?
I guess both functions in pretty much the same way.
Both requires physical tasks and when poses with a challenge, you either quit or soldier on.
That is when mental toughness plays a part and we have this "MIND OVER BODY" syndrome.
Leaving the army after 2.5 years of active life, I have to admit I had grown soft physically and put on 30% more weight.
Mental toughness ebbs away as well...
Lack of mental toughness made me DNF my races.
1) Singapore Biathlon 2006
2) MR25 Ultra-Marathon 2007
3) Let's Take A Walk 2008
4) Tri-Factor Tri-Swim 2010
2009 proves to be my most successful year. I have to agree that I was prepared physically and mentally for the first half of 2009 and it manages to push me through the second half of the year.
(Hmm... I almost DNF SCSM 2009 =p)
[Hmmm... Does that mean that I have used up my allocated DNF for 2010?]
Reflecting on 1) and 4), could jellyfish sting has an adverse effect on me? 2006 is definitely a horrific experience... I had to DNF in the middle of the ocean.
2) and 3), 30km proves to be the bugbear.
If I had not done so many races over the years, the most recent DNF would have swallow me whole.
I won't even think of attempting the arduous journey ahead.
Mental toughness had developed over these racing years and it has definitely give me an advantage.
I stand to gain from technological advances as well, but when all things fail... it is your will and desire to succeed that will push you through...
Wish me luck.
I see you guys tomorrow. =)
Would you rather walk the distance?
Did just that a while ago and I am glad I did.
Started walking and I have time to clear my mind and reflect on the past and think of the gruelling challenge ahead.
Do you notice that I tends to draw a parallel between my army life and my triathlete pastime?
I guess both functions in pretty much the same way.
Both requires physical tasks and when poses with a challenge, you either quit or soldier on.
That is when mental toughness plays a part and we have this "MIND OVER BODY" syndrome.
Leaving the army after 2.5 years of active life, I have to admit I had grown soft physically and put on 30% more weight.
Mental toughness ebbs away as well...
Lack of mental toughness made me DNF my races.
1) Singapore Biathlon 2006
2) MR25 Ultra-Marathon 2007
3) Let's Take A Walk 2008
4) Tri-Factor Tri-Swim 2010
2009 proves to be my most successful year. I have to agree that I was prepared physically and mentally for the first half of 2009 and it manages to push me through the second half of the year.
(Hmm... I almost DNF SCSM 2009 =p)
[Hmmm... Does that mean that I have used up my allocated DNF for 2010?]
Reflecting on 1) and 4), could jellyfish sting has an adverse effect on me? 2006 is definitely a horrific experience... I had to DNF in the middle of the ocean.
2) and 3), 30km proves to be the bugbear.
If I had not done so many races over the years, the most recent DNF would have swallow me whole.
I won't even think of attempting the arduous journey ahead.
Mental toughness had developed over these racing years and it has definitely give me an advantage.
I stand to gain from technological advances as well, but when all things fail... it is your will and desire to succeed that will push you through...
Wish me luck.
I see you guys tomorrow. =)
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
The Stage is Set
The stage is set for my worst prepared race of my life.
Ill-prepared as I am, but with some experience under my belt, I am prepared to slug it out...
Inch by inch, foot by foot, I willtry to(Do or do not, There is no Try - Yoda) cross the finish line.
Experience does bring you some benefit.
U do not go into the race like a dumb-ass, not knowing what to expect.
At least, I will play safe and have my gel every 7km...
Spare gels are required for rainy days...
I will be trying the compression-in-compression stuff.
Will let you guys know how it worked out after the race.
Call me crazy, but I guess you guys are already used to me doing unorthodox things on race day.
The never-try-new-stuff-on-race-day theory has long been threw out of the window.
Try it out and suffer the benefits or consequences of your experiment.
The route this year will provide some relief to my H20 system.
Last year, I had hell when the 2nd part of the marathon was in the neighbourhood.
Water points wise...
There were be less hydration stations due to the out-and-back route.
For runners like me, we will be in a fix if the organisers do what they do best... DEPRIVE slow runners of their much needed water.
If you have been lamenting about the lack of water during the later part of Ironman 70.3 Singapore, do remember that this race organiser's is exactly the same. ARGH...
Socks-wise... The ever reliable sock-in-sock solution that has worked wonders.
See ya guys this Saturday...
Ill-prepared as I am, but with some experience under my belt, I am prepared to slug it out...
Inch by inch, foot by foot, I will
Experience does bring you some benefit.
U do not go into the race like a dumb-ass, not knowing what to expect.
At least, I will play safe and have my gel every 7km...
Spare gels are required for rainy days...
I will be trying the compression-in-compression stuff.
Will let you guys know how it worked out after the race.
Call me crazy, but I guess you guys are already used to me doing unorthodox things on race day.
The never-try-new-stuff-on-race-day theory has long been threw out of the window.
Try it out and suffer the benefits or consequences of your experiment.
The route this year will provide some relief to my H20 system.
Last year, I had hell when the 2nd part of the marathon was in the neighbourhood.
Water points wise...
There were be less hydration stations due to the out-and-back route.
For runners like me, we will be in a fix if the organisers do what they do best... DEPRIVE slow runners of their much needed water.
If you have been lamenting about the lack of water during the later part of Ironman 70.3 Singapore, do remember that this race organiser's is exactly the same. ARGH...
Socks-wise... The ever reliable sock-in-sock solution that has worked wonders.
See ya guys this Saturday...
Vibram Five Fingers Bikila
Got the link from T@z blog... =)
If I were to get my next pair of shoes, this should be it.
Haha... you probably won't be hearing me getting a new pair of running shoes for a long time.
All my running shoes have not seen much daylight...
I am also getting very selective with my shoes.
List of shoes that I will consider :-
1) Asics Kayanos
2) Newtons Stability Trainers
3) VFF Bikila
That's it, folks... No other choices...
I am so glad that I din try to purchase the Nike LunarGlide after the shoe trial.
Good as it is, it truly pales in comparison to the Newtons. =p
Thanks, Tekko for talking sense into me. =)
Main intention of getting the VFF?
Let's Take A Walk 2010.
It is definitely nice to walk in VFF than in Crocs. =D
Till today, I still cannot believe that I covered more than 30km in my Crocs Athens. =D
Personally, if Crocs ever comes out with a pairs of shoes that can easily be worn to run, I will get it...
After walking >30km in a pair of Crocs slippers and still feeling great, I have no doubt that Crocs will pull me through a full marathon...
If I were to get my next pair of shoes, this should be it.
Haha... you probably won't be hearing me getting a new pair of running shoes for a long time.
All my running shoes have not seen much daylight...
I am also getting very selective with my shoes.
List of shoes that I will consider :-
1) Asics Kayanos
2) Newtons Stability Trainers
3) VFF Bikila
That's it, folks... No other choices...
I am so glad that I din try to purchase the Nike LunarGlide after the shoe trial.
Good as it is, it truly pales in comparison to the Newtons. =p
Thanks, Tekko for talking sense into me. =)
Main intention of getting the VFF?
Let's Take A Walk 2010.
It is definitely nice to walk in VFF than in Crocs. =D
Till today, I still cannot believe that I covered more than 30km in my Crocs Athens. =D
Personally, if Crocs ever comes out with a pairs of shoes that can easily be worn to run, I will get it...
After walking >30km in a pair of Crocs slippers and still feeling great, I have no doubt that Crocs will pull me through a full marathon...
Sunday, May 23, 2010
The Sign
00900
The sign could not have been clearer...
Our lives are governed by numbers and I have always been fascinated by them.
I always like "symmetrical" numbers... Can't blame me, it start from birth. =D
Ill-prepared I may have been for this race, I will still take the risk.
Went for a 4.5km run in my Newtons this evening...
The feeling of running again is great!
Having a PYT as a pacer during the run is a bonus. =D
Now comes the question. What shoes should I wear for the marathon?
1) First choice - The ever reliable Asics Kayanos. This pair of shoes took me through 2 marathons. It is a heavy pair of shoes though and I tends to kena black toes...
2) Second choice - Current favourite Newtons... This seems the logical choice. I have no issues with them for 21km... But a full marathon is twice the distance!!!
I also sayang the shoes, dun wanna see it kena tortured for 42km... =p
It is a light pair of shoes and is well ventilated...
3) Third choice - Asics Noosa Tri. This pair of shoes came into mind during the run.
Light weight, I will offer me the benefit of the Newtons during the race.
It is as durable as my Kayanos. I have the best of both worlds.
The longest distance that this pair of shoes have seen is 10km though...
It is a pair of racers...
But since I dun land hard on my heels any longer, my knees should be fine without the heel support.
It is 0.5 size smaller and will support only 1 pair of socks...
For marathons, I always wear 2 pairs of socks...
2 pairs of socks - A lesson well learnt from my army route marches. A combination of Injinji and WrightSock... Again, a best of both worlds combi which has served me well through my 2 marathons... Cannot say the same thing for the socks though. =D
Given the beating that the socks take, can I afford to go with only 1 pair of socks?
I need advice!!! Thanks!!!
The sign could not have been clearer...
Our lives are governed by numbers and I have always been fascinated by them.
I always like "symmetrical" numbers... Can't blame me, it start from birth. =D
Ill-prepared I may have been for this race, I will still take the risk.
Went for a 4.5km run in my Newtons this evening...
The feeling of running again is great!
Having a PYT as a pacer during the run is a bonus. =D
Now comes the question. What shoes should I wear for the marathon?
1) First choice - The ever reliable Asics Kayanos. This pair of shoes took me through 2 marathons. It is a heavy pair of shoes though and I tends to kena black toes...
2) Second choice - Current favourite Newtons... This seems the logical choice. I have no issues with them for 21km... But a full marathon is twice the distance!!!
I also sayang the shoes, dun wanna see it kena tortured for 42km... =p
It is a light pair of shoes and is well ventilated...
3) Third choice - Asics Noosa Tri. This pair of shoes came into mind during the run.
Light weight, I will offer me the benefit of the Newtons during the race.
It is as durable as my Kayanos. I have the best of both worlds.
The longest distance that this pair of shoes have seen is 10km though...
It is a pair of racers...
But since I dun land hard on my heels any longer, my knees should be fine without the heel support.
It is 0.5 size smaller and will support only 1 pair of socks...
For marathons, I always wear 2 pairs of socks...
2 pairs of socks - A lesson well learnt from my army route marches. A combination of Injinji and WrightSock... Again, a best of both worlds combi which has served me well through my 2 marathons... Cannot say the same thing for the socks though. =D
Given the beating that the socks take, can I afford to go with only 1 pair of socks?
I need advice!!! Thanks!!!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Gimme a Sign...
Should I swap my 42km slot with 21km?
Or should I give it up totally?
Most of you would know that I am one who dun do much training runs and yet proceed to take part in running races.
This time round, I just cannot imagine how I am going to complete the race.
Previously, I have my training rides to pull me through.
Recently, I have many weeks of inactivity.
I have a lot of negativity going for the races, but I am glad that I managed to survived and enjoyed each race.
What spooked me was the Tri-Swim...
I cannot recall when was the last time I DNF-ed.
To be the only one in your category to DNF-ed on a great day truly sucks...
By taking part in Sundown Marathon, I may pull through it, I may DNF-ed.
DNF really scares me...
Blisters and aches have not brought me down the way my fighting spirit let me down last Sunday...
Or should I give it up totally?
Most of you would know that I am one who dun do much training runs and yet proceed to take part in running races.
This time round, I just cannot imagine how I am going to complete the race.
Previously, I have my training rides to pull me through.
Recently, I have many weeks of inactivity.
I have a lot of negativity going for the races, but I am glad that I managed to survived and enjoyed each race.
What spooked me was the Tri-Swim...
I cannot recall when was the last time I DNF-ed.
To be the only one in your category to DNF-ed on a great day truly sucks...
By taking part in Sundown Marathon, I may pull through it, I may DNF-ed.
DNF really scares me...
Blisters and aches have not brought me down the way my fighting spirit let me down last Sunday...
Monday, May 10, 2010
Tri-Swim 2010
Reached race site an hour early and took my time to do body marking, baggage deposit and mingle with friends.
Have generous application of sun screen, thanks to Dermalogica.
This race is not for the weak hearted.
See a couple of elite tri-suits, speed-suits and one guy even have a speed-suit that closely resembles Speedo LZR Racer.
Body system says "GO"...
Nothing seems out of sorts.
Tried out the brand new blue-tinted googles.
As my previous post suggested, colours really looks different, red becomes purple, yellow becomes green.
I can sight the buoys though. So I am good.
Haha... another first... My Orca tri-suit.
Where got chance to test it, only during races. =D
Learnt a little tip standing at the Start Point while seeing the first wave starts.
Take the most direct route to the first buoy, forget about the map.
Just past the first buoy, I feel like I am swimming alone.
Swimmers do past me by once in a while, but I am swimming alone most of the time.
Not too bad... Just that it does not feel like a race anymore.
To kill the boredom, I start counting the Lane Line Floats (LLF).
One stroke per 0.9 float for freestyle.
One stroke per 1.3 float for breaststroke!
There comes a stage whereby I am quite certain I am swimming at the same spot. =p
(Rewind : Tri-Swim 2009 where a swimmer literally swim in the same spot for freestyle and only progress when he switches to breaststroke.)
Was a tad disappointed when I see that we are not going on to the shore to do the turn-around at the second buoy.
Completed the first lap feeling pretty good.
Quite certain that my first lap is faster than last year too.
Past the first buoy on my second lap, things started to fall apart.
My nostrils and hard palate are burning...
Energy is sapping at a very fast rate.
I can feel myself perspiring for a moment, I swear.
Morale is slowly ebbing away.
The burning sensation never seems to go away...
Past the breakwater, I felt a pain sting on my left leg.
First thing I saw was a lady in elite tri-suit with her draw-string.
It can't be the draw string acting as a whip, right?
Anyway, if it does, the pain should subside soon.
Just hope that it din draw any blood.
Could it be a jellyfish? But the pain is stretching across the entire calf...
(Rewind: Singapore Biathlon 2006. The jellyfish sting took me out of the race. Is this a repeat?)
I cannot kick much with my left leg. The pain is overbearing but tolerable. (Haha, dun make sense, right? =D)
Stopped every few strokes to rub the painful spot.
Making the U-turn at the second buoy, I noticed that my swim is getting slower.
This is definitely not a good sign.
The jellyfish sting is all but forgotten.
Should I continue, or should I stop?
In my heart, I have already decided to call it a day.
There is always another 3km swim for another day.
Running onto the sand, I wobbled across the timing mat.
This is the final straw.
There is no point being a hero and ending up a zero.
Instead of popping back into the sea, I make my way out.
Threw the timing chip into the pail, collected my bag and went for a shower.
Haha, the good thing about early showers is that you do not need to wait and fight for shower lots.
There are all there for you to choose. =D
Have a nice long shower before making my way back to the end point to meet the guys.
Had a short chat before making my way home.
Have generous application of sun screen, thanks to Dermalogica.
This race is not for the weak hearted.
See a couple of elite tri-suits, speed-suits and one guy even have a speed-suit that closely resembles Speedo LZR Racer.
Body system says "GO"...
Nothing seems out of sorts.
Tried out the brand new blue-tinted googles.
As my previous post suggested, colours really looks different, red becomes purple, yellow becomes green.
I can sight the buoys though. So I am good.
Haha... another first... My Orca tri-suit.
Where got chance to test it, only during races. =D
Learnt a little tip standing at the Start Point while seeing the first wave starts.
Take the most direct route to the first buoy, forget about the map.
Just past the first buoy, I feel like I am swimming alone.
Swimmers do past me by once in a while, but I am swimming alone most of the time.
Not too bad... Just that it does not feel like a race anymore.
To kill the boredom, I start counting the Lane Line Floats (LLF).
One stroke per 0.9 float for freestyle.
One stroke per 1.3 float for breaststroke!
There comes a stage whereby I am quite certain I am swimming at the same spot. =p
(Rewind : Tri-Swim 2009 where a swimmer literally swim in the same spot for freestyle and only progress when he switches to breaststroke.)
Was a tad disappointed when I see that we are not going on to the shore to do the turn-around at the second buoy.
Completed the first lap feeling pretty good.
Quite certain that my first lap is faster than last year too.
Past the first buoy on my second lap, things started to fall apart.
My nostrils and hard palate are burning...
Energy is sapping at a very fast rate.
I can feel myself perspiring for a moment, I swear.
Morale is slowly ebbing away.
The burning sensation never seems to go away...
Past the breakwater, I felt a pain sting on my left leg.
First thing I saw was a lady in elite tri-suit with her draw-string.
It can't be the draw string acting as a whip, right?
Anyway, if it does, the pain should subside soon.
Just hope that it din draw any blood.
Could it be a jellyfish? But the pain is stretching across the entire calf...
(Rewind: Singapore Biathlon 2006. The jellyfish sting took me out of the race. Is this a repeat?)
I cannot kick much with my left leg. The pain is overbearing but tolerable. (Haha, dun make sense, right? =D)
Stopped every few strokes to rub the painful spot.
Making the U-turn at the second buoy, I noticed that my swim is getting slower.
This is definitely not a good sign.
The jellyfish sting is all but forgotten.
Should I continue, or should I stop?
In my heart, I have already decided to call it a day.
There is always another 3km swim for another day.
Running onto the sand, I wobbled across the timing mat.
This is the final straw.
There is no point being a hero and ending up a zero.
Instead of popping back into the sea, I make my way out.
Threw the timing chip into the pail, collected my bag and went for a shower.
Haha, the good thing about early showers is that you do not need to wait and fight for shower lots.
There are all there for you to choose. =D
Have a nice long shower before making my way back to the end point to meet the guys.
Had a short chat before making my way home.
Tri-Swim 2010 Results
Daniel Cheng
Lap 1 - 00:19:03.35
Lap 2 - 00:21:54.60
Lap 3 -
Lap 4 -
Overall Results - Did Not Finish
The results says it all...
3 minutes variance between the 1st lap and 2nd lap does tells me something I like to know.
I am glad I made the correct call. =)
I can always swim 3km another day. =)
What I feel sad about though is that I am one of the only two 3km swimmers who DNF-ed on a very fine day for swimming.
Lap 1 - 00:19:03.35
Lap 2 - 00:21:54.60
Lap 3 -
Lap 4 -
Overall Results - Did Not Finish
The results says it all...
3 minutes variance between the 1st lap and 2nd lap does tells me something I like to know.
I am glad I made the correct call. =)
I can always swim 3km another day. =)
What I feel sad about though is that I am one of the only two 3km swimmers who DNF-ed on a very fine day for swimming.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Don’t use blue tinted Goggles for Triathlon Swim
http://www.triathlontrainingblog.com/post/dont-use-blue-tinted-goggles-for-triathlon-swim/
Interesting stuff.
Will try it out this Sunday. =)
Interesting stuff.
Will try it out this Sunday. =)
ISM Adamo Breakaway
http://www.ismseat.com/products_breakaway.htm
A new 2010 saddle.
Should I give it a try?
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Timex Ironman Global Trainer
http://forum.slowtwitch.com/Slowtwitch_Forums_C1/Triathlon_Forum_F1/timex_ironman_global_trainer_bodylink_system_P2745244-2
After reading all the comments about the watch and seen the Facebook photos, I think I will not even consider it when it is released in the States.
This is the first time that Timex is venturing into a GPS integrated watch, while Garmin has been doing it for ages.
Looking at the specifications of the watch, it is comparable to Garmin ForeRunner 310XT.
Looking at the watch size, it seems similar or even bigger than 310XT.
Software wise, it looks like Timex has a couple of bugs to squash.
Although I am not happy with my current Garmin software version, as long as it does not give me any major problems during races, I am fine. =D
Have managed to sort out the issues and do all the necessary stuff before a race to ensure that it is running fine. =)
In fact, I was looking at the 310XT before the Tribob Sprint Triathlon race and noted to myself that I love this watch.
Why? Cos it allows me to record the entire race timing with GPS tracking included!
Something that no watch has ever been able to do. =)
Garmin is a first and I am glad that I owned the technology. =)
Many people have fumed over its size.
I am not an aesthetic person, I prefer function over looks. =)
Much as I like to have the actual swim distance recorded, I am cool without it as long as it reflects the distance accurately on land.
One can have the best things of everything. =)
(Did a Google search and it is confirmed that GPS cannot work underwater.)
I did notice something with my swim with 310XT though.
If you do purely freestyle, you get a fairly accurate picture of the path taken, although the distance is way off.
I have read about triathletes who would place their 305 in their swim cap but no one has ever commented on the distance travelled. =/
Another reason why I love 310XT?
I wear it as a dress watch after a race, something that 205 dun provide.
405? It is good for a single discipline race, not for anything more.
After reading all the comments about the watch and seen the Facebook photos, I think I will not even consider it when it is released in the States.
This is the first time that Timex is venturing into a GPS integrated watch, while Garmin has been doing it for ages.
Looking at the specifications of the watch, it is comparable to Garmin ForeRunner 310XT.
Looking at the watch size, it seems similar or even bigger than 310XT.
Software wise, it looks like Timex has a couple of bugs to squash.
Although I am not happy with my current Garmin software version, as long as it does not give me any major problems during races, I am fine. =D
Have managed to sort out the issues and do all the necessary stuff before a race to ensure that it is running fine. =)
In fact, I was looking at the 310XT before the Tribob Sprint Triathlon race and noted to myself that I love this watch.
Why? Cos it allows me to record the entire race timing with GPS tracking included!
Something that no watch has ever been able to do. =)
Garmin is a first and I am glad that I owned the technology. =)
Many people have fumed over its size.
I am not an aesthetic person, I prefer function over looks. =)
Much as I like to have the actual swim distance recorded, I am cool without it as long as it reflects the distance accurately on land.
One can have the best things of everything. =)
(Did a Google search and it is confirmed that GPS cannot work underwater.)
I did notice something with my swim with 310XT though.
If you do purely freestyle, you get a fairly accurate picture of the path taken, although the distance is way off.
I have read about triathletes who would place their 305 in their swim cap but no one has ever commented on the distance travelled. =/
Another reason why I love 310XT?
I wear it as a dress watch after a race, something that 205 dun provide.
405? It is good for a single discipline race, not for anything more.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Tribob Sprint Triathlon 2010 Results
Keke... another PB. *Faint* =D
Swim 16:50
T1 : 3:52
Cycle : 38:25
T2 : 2:58
Run : 38:21
Overall : 1:40:28
Tribob Sprint Triathlon 2009
Swim 750m - 19m 21s
T1 - 3m 09s
Bike 20km - 37m 03s
T2 - 3m 56s
Run 5km - 41m 13s
Overall 1h 44m 42s
Swim 16:50
T1 : 3:52
Cycle : 38:25
T2 : 2:58
Run : 38:21
Overall : 1:40:28
Tribob Sprint Triathlon 2009
Swim 750m - 19m 21s
T1 - 3m 09s
Bike 20km - 37m 03s
T2 - 3m 56s
Run 5km - 41m 13s
Overall 1h 44m 42s
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Tribob Sprint Triathlon
Drove to Changi Coastal Road.
Gosh... everyone is early today.
All the carparks are full!
Went back to Changi Village...
Haiz.... no more free parking...
Decided to park at CSC.
Cycling to the race site, I was not even out of Changi Village when my legs started complaining.
Serves me right for not training for the race. O_0
Reaching the race site, everyone is walking to the Swim Start.
Gosh... 30mins to spare and I am fashionably late. =D
As it is free racking for this race, I found a nice spot, only to realise later that I am a bike away from Kia Liang and Daniel Cheng. =D
Set up transition, did my body marking and proceed to the Swim Start.
As I reached the Swim Start, my wave was ushered into the Start Point. =D
A lot of familiar faces. A few handshakes later, we are off.
Haha... it is a relaxed mood... No one is running, everyone walked and chatted.
Less than 100m into the swim, I tried to stand up and manage to do so.
Turned around to tell Kia Liang about it and it really cracked him up. =D
While swimming towards the first buoy, I got slapped on the ankle.
I looked around... Gosh... the spot where I was swimming was so clear (30m radius of free territory) and this guy has to swimming behind me. O_o
Was able to swim and talk to Kia Liang as we approach the swim buoy (That is how relaxed the swim was). =D
Looking past the 2nd buoy, I was amused.
Less than 50m after the 2nd buoy was Moses, Moses and Moses....
Everyone is walking on water!!!
How? I will soon now.... =D
Tried to switch to breaststroke a couple of times.
Gosh... it is so tiring to swim BreastStroke....
Looking forward to be like Moses. ;-)
Uneventful swim till the point where the water is so shallow that walking is faster.
I guess we are still 150m from the shore where everyone starts to walk.
Everyone tried different methods to walking... Dolphin jumps, but swimming against the currents in the shallow waters is totally crap, thus it is wading time towards shore. =D
Looks unglam and disgusting to the photographers and supporters on the shores, but you really need to try to swim the shallow waters to realise that it is futile. You are not moving at all!
Reaching shore, it is a 200m walk-run to the transition area.
The transition really sucks. The ground is so uneven with thorny seeds that everyone had a really painful foot massage before we reached our bike.
Suggested to Kia Liang to wear booties if we were to race here next year. =D
Kia Liang did an ultra-fast transition and commented "I am sure you will catch me on the bike"
Everyone seems to be in and out of the transition area in double-quick time and there I am slowly drying myself, putting on my gear, having a drink before proceeding to Bike Out. =p
Once on the roads, I have a hard time spinning up to speed.
Truly serves me right for not training... 活该.
Decided to go aero.
Hmm.... I no longer have to go down left first, then right when going aero.
Is the demon truly exorcised? I truly got no idea.
I can go down on my drop bars, another position that was not familiar to me.
Cool! Can crank out 1 or 2km/h more just going aero.
And being able to stay aero for a while longer means that catching the front rider is much easier.
Remember Kia Liang's challenge, thus I set out to catch him. =D
Spotted him on the 5km U-turn.
Even though he is not too far ahead of me, it was almost impossible to catch Mr Fua.
Quiet ride until I heard carbon crunching coming not far from the back.
Gosh, the sounds truly sucks...
Turned around and only see a heap in the distance.
At the 10km U-turn point, spotted Coach and shouted out to him.
So pai say to be so far behind in the bike leg, I immediately went into aero mode and spin up...
Wow, the feeling is shiok....
I managed to catch sight of my target.... Cross-hairs turned from yellow to green. =)
A group of riders rode up beside me.
"Nice wheels", the leader said.
Haha.... Adrian - the culprit who psycho-ed me into getting the Zeros. =D
The train passed by quickly.
Gamed for a fight, I overtook the train. =D
Needless to say, the thrill is short-lived. =D
Managed to overtake my target by the 15km mark.
But the hunter soon become the hunted.
I go passed by Kia Liang soon after the U-turn.
Tried to catch Kia Liang, but he is just too strong for me.
Getting slower and slower, I blamed it on my insufficient training.
Hunger pangs strike and I realised that I have not taken anything after the swim.
Glupped down on GU Gel and hope that the tank filled up fast.
Reached the end of the Bike Leg with Kia Liang, Adrian and Train long gone.
Went into T2 and along came Daniel Cheng.
Hmm... how come he comes into T2 only during at this time?
He should have been way ahead by now...
Onto the run route and there is Coach snapping photos, shouting encouragements.
Less than 500m later, I am walking...
The pace is just too fast for me.
This is a crazy race... Everyone is just chionging here and there.
I guess everyone will tell me this is what a Sprint Triathlon is all about... It is a SPRINT!!! O_o
The walking din last long though...
So pai say to run when almost everyone is sprinting. =p
Was glad when the U-turn came into sight.
The three cheerleaders are great too, cheering everyone on! Thanks, gals!
Into the last 2.5km lap, the route has already thinned...
Spotted a chirpy lady who is running and waving to the triathletes.
Hmm... HP gal named Yen Yen.
Would have been interesting if she were my ex-colleague.
Suddenly the truth hits me like a tidal wave...
HP's Yen Yen.... meant that I am looking at HP's honcho. =D
As I start on my final 1km, both Daniel and Raphael shouted out to me "Don't let me catch you!" O_o
With less than 200m to go...
A familiar voice shouted out... "Oi... U better run faster. I'm coming!"
Those un-oiled pistons are trying their best, but still got beaten by a better set of engines... =D
At the Finish Line, the commentator announced : "Here comes Daniel Gan!"
Less than 3 seconds later "Here comes Daniel Cheng!"
Would have been fun if I were just ahead of or behind Daniel Cheng =D
It will probably let the guys did a double take. =D
Went over the to HP tent to chat with the kakis.
Met Kenneth (from OSIM Tri) there.
Haha, very very small world.
Daniel Cheng started to introduce Daniel Cheng to his friends. =D
I truly envy the HP Triathlon Family.
To have a honcho initiate a triathlon craze in a small country like Singapore is truly unheard of.
One day, I do wish to be part of the HP family.
Anyone got lobang? ;-)
[In my current office, we have a grand total of 2 pure runners, 1 duathlete and 1 triathlete (me!) O_o]
After the race, all my mis-givings about attending this race is gone.
It is not the addiction that keeps me coming back.
It is the camaraderie and rapport built among fellow triathletes that kept the fire burning.
Thanks, guys!
Gosh... everyone is early today.
All the carparks are full!
Went back to Changi Village...
Haiz.... no more free parking...
Decided to park at CSC.
Cycling to the race site, I was not even out of Changi Village when my legs started complaining.
Serves me right for not training for the race. O_0
Reaching the race site, everyone is walking to the Swim Start.
Gosh... 30mins to spare and I am fashionably late. =D
As it is free racking for this race, I found a nice spot, only to realise later that I am a bike away from Kia Liang and Daniel Cheng. =D
Set up transition, did my body marking and proceed to the Swim Start.
As I reached the Swim Start, my wave was ushered into the Start Point. =D
A lot of familiar faces. A few handshakes later, we are off.
Haha... it is a relaxed mood... No one is running, everyone walked and chatted.
Less than 100m into the swim, I tried to stand up and manage to do so.
Turned around to tell Kia Liang about it and it really cracked him up. =D
While swimming towards the first buoy, I got slapped on the ankle.
I looked around... Gosh... the spot where I was swimming was so clear (30m radius of free territory) and this guy has to swimming behind me. O_o
Was able to swim and talk to Kia Liang as we approach the swim buoy (That is how relaxed the swim was). =D
Looking past the 2nd buoy, I was amused.
Less than 50m after the 2nd buoy was Moses, Moses and Moses....
Everyone is walking on water!!!
How? I will soon now.... =D
Tried to switch to breaststroke a couple of times.
Gosh... it is so tiring to swim BreastStroke....
Looking forward to be like Moses. ;-)
Uneventful swim till the point where the water is so shallow that walking is faster.
I guess we are still 150m from the shore where everyone starts to walk.
Everyone tried different methods to walking... Dolphin jumps, but swimming against the currents in the shallow waters is totally crap, thus it is wading time towards shore. =D
Looks unglam and disgusting to the photographers and supporters on the shores, but you really need to try to swim the shallow waters to realise that it is futile. You are not moving at all!
Reaching shore, it is a 200m walk-run to the transition area.
The transition really sucks. The ground is so uneven with thorny seeds that everyone had a really painful foot massage before we reached our bike.
Suggested to Kia Liang to wear booties if we were to race here next year. =D
Kia Liang did an ultra-fast transition and commented "I am sure you will catch me on the bike"
Everyone seems to be in and out of the transition area in double-quick time and there I am slowly drying myself, putting on my gear, having a drink before proceeding to Bike Out. =p
Once on the roads, I have a hard time spinning up to speed.
Truly serves me right for not training... 活该.
Decided to go aero.
Hmm.... I no longer have to go down left first, then right when going aero.
Is the demon truly exorcised? I truly got no idea.
I can go down on my drop bars, another position that was not familiar to me.
Cool! Can crank out 1 or 2km/h more just going aero.
And being able to stay aero for a while longer means that catching the front rider is much easier.
Remember Kia Liang's challenge, thus I set out to catch him. =D
Spotted him on the 5km U-turn.
Even though he is not too far ahead of me, it was almost impossible to catch Mr Fua.
Quiet ride until I heard carbon crunching coming not far from the back.
Gosh, the sounds truly sucks...
Turned around and only see a heap in the distance.
At the 10km U-turn point, spotted Coach and shouted out to him.
So pai say to be so far behind in the bike leg, I immediately went into aero mode and spin up...
Wow, the feeling is shiok....
I managed to catch sight of my target.... Cross-hairs turned from yellow to green. =)
A group of riders rode up beside me.
"Nice wheels", the leader said.
Haha.... Adrian - the culprit who psycho-ed me into getting the Zeros. =D
The train passed by quickly.
Gamed for a fight, I overtook the train. =D
Needless to say, the thrill is short-lived. =D
Managed to overtake my target by the 15km mark.
But the hunter soon become the hunted.
I go passed by Kia Liang soon after the U-turn.
Tried to catch Kia Liang, but he is just too strong for me.
Getting slower and slower, I blamed it on my insufficient training.
Hunger pangs strike and I realised that I have not taken anything after the swim.
Glupped down on GU Gel and hope that the tank filled up fast.
Reached the end of the Bike Leg with Kia Liang, Adrian and Train long gone.
Went into T2 and along came Daniel Cheng.
Hmm... how come he comes into T2 only during at this time?
He should have been way ahead by now...
Onto the run route and there is Coach snapping photos, shouting encouragements.
Less than 500m later, I am walking...
The pace is just too fast for me.
This is a crazy race... Everyone is just chionging here and there.
I guess everyone will tell me this is what a Sprint Triathlon is all about... It is a SPRINT!!! O_o
The walking din last long though...
So pai say to run when almost everyone is sprinting. =p
Was glad when the U-turn came into sight.
The three cheerleaders are great too, cheering everyone on! Thanks, gals!
Into the last 2.5km lap, the route has already thinned...
Spotted a chirpy lady who is running and waving to the triathletes.
Hmm... HP gal named Yen Yen.
Would have been interesting if she were my ex-colleague.
Suddenly the truth hits me like a tidal wave...
HP's Yen Yen.... meant that I am looking at HP's honcho. =D
As I start on my final 1km, both Daniel and Raphael shouted out to me "Don't let me catch you!" O_o
With less than 200m to go...
A familiar voice shouted out... "Oi... U better run faster. I'm coming!"
Those un-oiled pistons are trying their best, but still got beaten by a better set of engines... =D
At the Finish Line, the commentator announced : "Here comes Daniel Gan!"
Less than 3 seconds later "Here comes Daniel Cheng!"
Would have been fun if I were just ahead of or behind Daniel Cheng =D
It will probably let the guys did a double take. =D
Went over the to HP tent to chat with the kakis.
Met Kenneth (from OSIM Tri) there.
Haha, very very small world.
Daniel Cheng started to introduce Daniel Cheng to his friends. =D
I truly envy the HP Triathlon Family.
To have a honcho initiate a triathlon craze in a small country like Singapore is truly unheard of.
One day, I do wish to be part of the HP family.
Anyone got lobang? ;-)
[In my current office, we have a grand total of 2 pure runners, 1 duathlete and 1 triathlete (me!) O_o]
After the race, all my mis-givings about attending this race is gone.
It is not the addiction that keeps me coming back.
It is the camaraderie and rapport built among fellow triathletes that kept the fire burning.
Thanks, guys!
Pre- Tribob Sprint Triathlon Thoughts
Have your ever signed up for races for all the wrong reasons?
I have and this race happens to be one of them.
I have already been warned by a friend that working in my current capacity will hamper my races and preparation.
It does in a BIG way... but I guess that is where you have to decide whether each race is worth taking part.
Flashback...
1) Work till 11pm, slept 3 hours, went for OCBC Cycle...
2) Pulled the midnight shift. Went to the Aviva IM 70.3 Singapore Training Swim right after work. =)
3) Full day on Labour Day... Totally zonked out after spending 2 complete weekends in the office... My face looked so awful in the mirror, I could not recognise myself... =/
Negative thoughts started to fill my mind since Friday.
Felt like a waste of money to sign up for races yet not training for it.
Sad fact is that I have not got on the saddle nor run a single step since OSIM Triathlon 3 weeks ago!
How I am going to get through the race, I have not a single clue.
Watching the Susan Boyle Youtube video calms me down somewhat...
I have and this race happens to be one of them.
I have already been warned by a friend that working in my current capacity will hamper my races and preparation.
It does in a BIG way... but I guess that is where you have to decide whether each race is worth taking part.
Flashback...
1) Work till 11pm, slept 3 hours, went for OCBC Cycle...
2) Pulled the midnight shift. Went to the Aviva IM 70.3 Singapore Training Swim right after work. =)
3) Full day on Labour Day... Totally zonked out after spending 2 complete weekends in the office... My face looked so awful in the mirror, I could not recognise myself... =/
Negative thoughts started to fill my mind since Friday.
Felt like a waste of money to sign up for races yet not training for it.
Sad fact is that I have not got on the saddle nor run a single step since OSIM Triathlon 3 weeks ago!
How I am going to get through the race, I have not a single clue.
Watching the Susan Boyle Youtube video calms me down somewhat...
Susan Boyle - Dreams Can Come True
2nd May Nightime
104.1kg
30.7%
*****
http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/entertainment/83906812.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxPZh4AnWyk
"Susan Boyle: Dreams Can Come True" by Alice Montgomery
What I can remember on the back cover.
She went onto the stage and is met with jeers and sniggers from the audience.
Even the 3 judges did not spare her with their looks of dis-belief when Susan mentioned is going to sing "I Dreamed a Dream".
Susan was asked by Simon why she joined the contest.
Susan : "I wish to get some professional coaching. It is something I never get the chance to do before and I hope that by joining this competition things will change"
The camera flashed over to the audience where one gal literally rolled her eyes. =D
Less than a minute later, Susan had a standing ovation as the entire audience got awed by her voice.
The Youtube clip is definitely worth watching again and again.
If you dared to dream, dreams will definitely come true.
104.1kg
30.7%
*****
http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/entertainment/83906812.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxPZh4AnWyk
"Susan Boyle: Dreams Can Come True" by Alice Montgomery
What I can remember on the back cover.
She went onto the stage and is met with jeers and sniggers from the audience.
Even the 3 judges did not spare her with their looks of dis-belief when Susan mentioned is going to sing "I Dreamed a Dream".
Susan was asked by Simon why she joined the contest.
Susan : "I wish to get some professional coaching. It is something I never get the chance to do before and I hope that by joining this competition things will change"
The camera flashed over to the audience where one gal literally rolled her eyes. =D
Less than a minute later, Susan had a standing ovation as the entire audience got awed by her voice.
The Youtube clip is definitely worth watching again and again.
If you dared to dream, dreams will definitely come true.
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