Thursday, April 26, 2012
25th April 2012 Gym
3km Run.
Did not keep track of timing.
Kinda like it, cos it makes the gym session a lot more relaxing.
Did some weights too. Gotta ache. Lol.
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Haha, time to get some thoughts out of the way.
Some JR past that I never shared before.
Shared some thoughts with J about donning a JR jersey if one wanna register to be a JR member.
Took a while, but I guess she got enough feedback to finally implement it.
Proud to say that everyone is donning the jersey with pride on weekends. =)
When J was in the running for POSB Everyday Champions for Sports Award, I wasn't too excited about it.
But I am glad she won it. =)
The added attention meant that the group will be expanding quickly.
If we have cooperative cyclists, it will be fine.
But we all know that there are always rogue riders out there.
Anyway, I am delighted with how JR is doing these days.
Lot of helpers willing to help out meant things are within control.
I was surprised when J started the Guardian Angel's (GA) Ride. =)
It happened soon after my Ride with Kai. =)
I love the idea, but I was not able to stay long being a GA as I was training for my first Half-IM race.
How GA has evolved.
They are now 2 groups.
Angel Hearts and Newbie Rides.
Initially, there were Angel Hearts.
But the speed was too fast for some riders that a few riders stood up to the plate and started leading Newbie Rides.
Kudos to them.
Was surprised how closely knitted the Newbies are when I joined them for a ride weeks ago.
A significant group of them are actually on WhatsApp Chat!
I know J feels sad when she saw her riders riding with other groups, but I guess she knows it is inevitable.
All I can say is that I am proud of J for what she has achieved both in Singapore and Malaysia. =)
Unknown to many, Joyce co-founded a popular sports club up North. =)
Monday, April 23, 2012
22nd April 2012 Cycling
Determine not to let the same thing happen during Ipoh, I decide it is time to ride.
Out on Mandai Road, I realised it is already 5:32am!
Gosh, the guys should be some distance in front.
Passing Mandai Camp, I can see the unmistakeable Modrain jersey.
Did a U-turn and the group is no way in sight!
Decided to make a U-turn at Old Mandai Road and wait for the guys @ Mandai Shell.
After waiting for a few minutes and did not see the guys, I decided to take a breather.
Guess what? They past by Mandai Shell when I am stuck in no man's land. O_o
Pang recognise me thru the BnB jersey and asked me if I were waiting for Greg.
I told him I was and he told me the group just passed by. :)
Thanked him and I started chasing again.
Once again, I decided to U-turn at Old Mandai Road to wait for the guys @ Mandai Shell.
While Alan and Greg proceed home, Ivan, Kelvin, Michelle, Dennis and me proceed with the day's plan.
At the junction of Upper Bukit Timah Road-Dairy Farm Road, we have the traffic light in our favour for the past 15 seconds, but that does not stop the 8 cars from turning right into Dairy Farm Road just as we are crossing the junction.
All of us were cautious, especially after hearing what happened to Vertex Eugene the day before.
Disaster was averted, cos all of us literally stopped in the middle of the junction.
Right after that incident, we talked about the callous behaviour of drivers towards cyclists.
At RRR, I was surprised I managed to do 14.9km/h when I previously do <10km/h.
I attributed it to a GOOD day. =p
Not a lot of runners on the tarmac today.
2nd loop, I finally see familiar faces. Adri and Sham. =)
Rode past a couple who looks very familiar.
Witness how a poor Sunday Duty army boy lost his brekkie to two ferocious monkeys.
They looked menacing when approaching him.
One clawed at his plastic bag and the bag just split open, dropping the pack of noodles on the floor.
The other monkey grabbed it and hold it close to his chest.
They did not ran away immediately but looked to be challenging the guy to snatch it back from them.
Rode past the couple. Oh, it is Charles and Kelly!
Wow, I have not seen them in over 2.5 years!
Time really flies.
Went for a 3rd loop while Michelle proceed home.
Slowed to chat with Charles on the way out.
My ride is done after 3 loops.
Dennis and Ivan egged each other on and completed 5 loops!
Haha, Ivan kept lamenting about IM Regensburg.
I realised how lucky I was.
With only 2 FOTRs doing IMR, Ivan does not have a real training buddy.
Whereas for IMWA 2011, a large group of us were going, we had each other for company for almost an entire year!
Ivan rode with me till end of Adam Road before turning back home.
Thanks, Ivan!
I proceed to LH for brekkie before proceeding home. =)
Sunday, April 22, 2012
21st April 2012 Musings
The mind can be such a powerful weapon.
Have Faith.
Believe in Yourself.
Lose faith in yourself and you lose the battle.
It does not take a bad day to ruin your day.
Kuantan Century Ride told me the truth.
I basically defeated myself when I hit the metric century.
I kicked myself in the butt when I realised how the rest of the team fared.
Going into the Ironman, I am stepping into the unknown.
I do have my past performances to make an estimate.
But the odds are heavily stacked against me.
For the swim and bike, I have never done the full distance in training.
Using extrapolation is a dangerous sum.
1:40h for 3.2km swim meant that I will meet the swim cut off time.
6:00-6:30h for 155km bike on a extremely good day during Bike and Blade meant that I will fail the bike cut off time.
With less than 8hrs on the exact clock to complete my marathon, my 3 times marathon personal best time of 8:20 meant that I will fail miserably in my mission.
Somehow all these figures did not faze me.
I just Believe that I Can Do It.
I trust myself that I can Complete the Deed. =)
FAITH....
Thursday, April 12, 2012
First Encounter of the Ironman
I can remember the day like it happened yesterday. =)
The full encounter blog entry should have been written long ago.
Haha, that is why I re-iterated why I cannot write a article for the masses as I prefer to include ALL the boring details. =D
While my roomies prefer to play it safe, I had McD dinner with my sister and friends at 8pm.
Plonked off to bed at 10pm.
Woke up at 2am after a deep sleep.
Had brekkie and put on my wetsuit.
Had Snickers and Daniel's homemade ham sandwich in my Run's Special Needs Bag.
Making doubly sure that we have everything, we made our way to the Race Start.
Prep the bike and went to do a final Royal Rumble.
Then we were off to the Swim Start.
Had a few photos.
Everyone looks calm...
Why??? BIGGEST race of our lives and everyone is so calm?
I had lousy preparation for the race and I know it.
But there is no turning back now.
"SUCK IT UP!" (Yes, this was the actual thought that went through my mind that morning. =D)
I pushed all the lack of preparation thoughts out of my mind.
Focus on the task ahead and hope to see the Finish Line.
Okay... now I know why everyone looks so calm...
Being nervous will not help the cause and I think all of us have been through enough races to quell the butterflies in the stomach.
The Boss gathered everyone and had our photo taken.
It was only after the race that I realised that we have all the FOTR-ers in the photo! =)
The pros start the race and we kept on chatting. =D
I kept my eyes off the pro racing.
No points making your heart beat any faster.
When the horn sounds for the Age-Groupers Start, we started walking into the water.
We figure if we need those extra seconds to finish the race, we are in deep shit. =p
I turned to my right and said to Sean "This is IT!"
"This is IT!" he responded and we both plunged into the cold morning sea for our swim.
After 500m, the swim group started to thin.
No thanks to my lack of swim training.
Another 100m and I can recognise Genevieve swimming to my left.
Haha, fancy finding a friend in the deep blue sea.
1km into the swim, I am almost hitting the jetty pillars.
The currents has pushed me so far eastwards without me realising it.
Decided to swim breaststroke to combat the currents.
Had not walk/run the jetty before, I do not know how the end of the jetty looks like.
Saw the flags. Is that the turning point?
Saw the small huts. Is that the turning point?
With only a few lone swimmers in front of me, I feared the worst.
I do not wanna DNF-ed the swim.
Finally saw the buoys.
Gosh... it is still a long way off to the U-turn.
I am glad when I finally made it past the 3 buoys at the U-turn.
I can barely made out the land in the horizon.
I do not see much swimmers in my view of sight.
Great! We have all DNF-ed the race.
Sooner or later, we are going to get sweep off the course.
Or I hope they will at least let us finish our swim.
Looking down, I can see the sea bottom.
Pretty cool! For a short moment, I reminisce my scuba diving days. =)
With nothing much in sight, I look up at the jetty once in a while.
There are still some supporters walking along the jetty.
Took comfort to have supporters with you all the way, even if the end is a DNF.
With a km to go and the Swim Exit in sight, it get depressing.
I have not seen anyone exited the swim for quite some time.
Gosh, I know I have been in the water for a long time, but I never thought I was in the water for this long.
I din wanna look at my watch, in case it send my pulse racing.
I wonder how bad I am faring as compared to my average 55mins 1.9km swim.
500m to go...
Suddenly, like a scene from a Special Operations movie, I see 10-20 swimmers emerging from the sea at the same time.
I was elated. Gosh, the feeling that flushes over me is indescribable.
There is HOPE!
I took time to find the scene amusing too. =D
Probably the first time I am smiling to myself since the past hour or so.
Some swimmers are emerging so far to the left and right of the Swim Exit, you wonder how far off course they have gone.
I started counting down the buoys to the Swim Exit.
Each buoy felt harder to reach. But I am sure I will make it. =)
The last 100m took forever.
When I am finally out of the water, I am not sure how to feel.
There are still quite a large number of supporters on the shore.
It is unlike the scenario I am used to in Singapore, where there are little supporters left when I had my Swim Exit.
I am still pretty sure that I will be stopped just before the Timing Mat by the officials.
The supporters are clapping, the officials are not stopping anyone.
A look at my watch... 1:48h!
Wahoo!!! I swear I could have jumped for joy, right there right now!
But there are more urgent matters on hand. =p
I could not wipe off that smile for the next minute to the Transition Tent.
I made it! One down, Two more to go.
I still have no idea how the day will end.
Never count the chicken before they hatch, I told myself. (Yes, exact thoughts again. =D)
Took off my Garmin, stripped off the upper half of my wetsuit and put the Garmin back on.
A sequence I tried once on Saturday with horrible results, today everything went through smoothly. =)
Had a short chat with Andrew as we proceed to the tent together.
This really feels like home. =D
You really start to forget that you are thousands of miles away from home. =D
To all my supporters in Singapore, this swim is for you. =D
I finally tag myself on IronManLive.com.
You guys finally have something to do for the next 15+ hours. =D
Just as I was entering the transition tent, Ivan is running around frantically looking for his watch. I wished I could have been able to help. =(
Sitting down at the Transition Tent, a volunteer ripped the wetsuit off me.
He did it so efficiently, it is pretty amazing to watch. =)
Okay, this will have to wait for another IM to watch again. =D
I stripped, trying my best to cover myself with my jersey.
I must have embarassed the female volunteer, one of the four volunteers around me, that she walked away. Sorry, gal.
(I thought it was normal, based on the talks I had with fellow IMs, but I guess it is not. =p)
(If you guys really like to know, go check out IM Swizterland. ;p)
With only a volunteer hovering around me, I got him to lather me with lots of sunblock while I got dressed.
Not an easy task I must say. Thanks, mate!
I took the Prof's advice and put on my biking shorts.
The race is just too long to use a tri-suit.
Once again, if I need those precious seconds, I am in deep shit.
I put on my FOTR long-sleeved jersey for the bike. =)
Dun try anything new on Race Day. Gotcha! =D
I walked to my bike. The legs felt 'dead'.
Gosh, I have to start pumping life into those legs soon.
Got onto the bike with some difficulty, but it is truly awesome to have the crowd cheering you on.
Hmm... I hope they are cheering me on, cos the Pros are just starting to come riding past. =D
Even before we hit out of town, there was the first Aid Station.
The cookies looked tempting, but I must resist...
I am pretty sure my stomach won't hold the cookie.
Turning right out of town, Luke McKenzie overtook me right after the turn!
Cool! The only Pro I recognise from the Pro Start List and I get to see him so early in the race! =)
There is a whole bunch of Pros (based on the Race Bibs) overtaking me right after the turn, but what I find amazing is that none of the Pros trailing right behind me made a single sound when I slowed to make the right turn out of town.
Again, this is something I am not used to in Singapore.
No screeching braking sounds, whatsoever.
A lot of families have their lounge chairs out to spectate.
The cars are at a virtual standstill at every traffic junction. =)
You really start to Live the Moment. =)
Just out of town, I had four to five cyclists ahead of me.
I had to make the decision now.
Picked them off one by one or took them down in one swoop.
50m is a fairly long distance to overtake on the move.
I am surprised I had the legs to overtake!
Overtook one, the cyclist is not falling back fast enough and I am now in the draft zone of another cyclist.
Out of nowhere, an official bike appear. WTF!
Cranked a little harder to overtake the second cyclist.
Once again, I am in another draft zone.
Another official bike appear! Where did they come from! And why two official bikes in such close proximity!
Cranked a lot harder to get out of the draft zone.
Picked off another cyclist and an official car appear! WTF!!!
Three official vehicles just when I am doing my overtaking! *Faintz*
Decided to just complete the deed and overtake the entire group.
(Now that I am writing this, I think the official vehicles are following the Pro Females.)
Seriously, the swoop is not by choice!!!
But I am glad I did.
I am prepared to be overtaken anytime now. =p
Reached the roundabout and one dumb-assed Asian overtook me right at the roundabout. He almost hit the kerb and took me down with him.
After the roundabout, it can get pretty depressing as there won't be much supporters on the course. It is just you, your fellow competitors and the road.
Turning into Coast Road, it feels great to see Sean and BFG.
Seeing Kia Liang and Andrew on the outleg, I started hatching a game plan.
Hunt them down! =D
They will overtake me on the Run anyway, so why not have some fun! =)
Game ON!
The cool thing about having so much friends on your maiden voyage is that you have lots of company for the long arduous journey.
But it also meant that you know who your preys are. =p
I started doing the Mathematics.
This is a 5km in, 5km out stretch.
I probably need to make up 20 minutes to overtake KL.
This plan definitely put some life into the legs.
It is pretty awesome to see the 5-hour bike trainer speciaist on the race course.
I would have gone mad riding stationary for 5 straight hours.
How KL did that for an entire year is anyone's guess.
Having mapped the distance from point-to-point from the Bike Course Drive on Saturday, I started count down the miles to the next junction.
Out on Tuart Drive, it feels awesome to see riders streaming back on the return leg.
You do not feel so lonely. Saw Michelle, Kristal, Ivan, Sean, BFG, Andrew and KL.
I did not recall see Chris nor YP during the Bike. They must have put on some awesome camoflague to avoid detection. ;}
Stopped to top up the Gatorade at the Aid Station on Tuart Drive.
I am running super dry, barely 35km into the Bike.
At the 45km mark, I took a bottle on the move.
The volunteers were awesome, it is as though they have trained for this all their life!
Reaching back to town, I did the silent countdown.
One DOWN, TWO to go.
The Sun is taking a toll out of everyone, but the crowd is just as enthusiastic.
No one is shying away from supporting!
Past the Aid Station and was offered cookies again. =(
Out on Coast Road, I know I had made up some miles on the quartet.
Andrew has already overtaken KL.
Andrew has a really quick transition while I took my time. =p
With a target in sight, I pushed a bit harder.
Saw a runner out along Layman Road! O_o
Took a toliet break at the Aid Station. Not that I need it, but to ease my butt after 85km on the bike. =)
No point just standing around, right?
Might as well do something useful. =D
Took an unpeeled, uncut banana from the volunteers.
The two volunteers watch in amazement as I stuff the entire banana into my mouth in a single go. =p
I did not know I have such a BIG mouth till today.
Overtook KL on the return leg on Tuart Drive.
By now, I am sick of Gatorade.
Too sweet for my liking although I did have it for my training rides.
The cold flat coke taste awesome in the sweltering heat.
Had flat coke for the remaining miles on the bike. =)
Chased down Andrew on Layman Road.
There was a short, light drizzle.
Nice!
Another 60km to go. How am I going to fare?
I have no idea. The furthest I have ever rode is 155km during Bike and Blade.
Keeping my fingers crossed.
Entering Coast Road for the final time, I am surprised to see Sean trailing BFG.
How could it be? Hope Sean is okay.
Watched in awe as Kristal took the huge lead from Michelle.
Kristal is simply awesome. From our first Desaru Ride where she was struggling at the back of the pack to her current form. On her aluminium Obrea no less! =)
Impressive! =)
A kind lady held my bike as I proceed on my 2nd toliet break along Tuart Drive.
Again, I need the butt break more than anything else.
155km. This is the longest distance I have ever reached.
Anything more is a bonus. =)
Daniel Ng and I tag each other a couple of times along Tuart Drive.
I finally won the upper hand during the last 15km when DN stop responding.
Hunting down DN, I took quiet satisfaction in overtaking one of his team mates.
No offence, DN. I just hate your fellow team mate for putting me down time and again.
Saw Siew Ling and Elisa on the other side of the road.
They should have enough time to complete the ride, but it will be pretty close.
The lone runner is picking up the race bottles. =)
170km. The feeling is surreal.
Just like the swim, I did not glance at the watch once.
I was so glad when I passed Busselton Village for the final time.
Reaching the final straight, Pete Murray announced that Luke McKenzie has completed his race in 10th place!
Cool! I have completed the 2nd stage of my race in probably less than 9 hours!
Haha, I can only tell you that I probably complete in 8:55h, cos I did not take a look at the watch! =D
Pass the bike to the Bike Catcher.
Haha, feels like a pro! Cheap Thrill! =p
Seriously speaking, it did not feel like 9hrs. More like 3 hours.
The crowd has been out here as long as we had!
The supporters are awesome!
The whole race feels like a carnival! =)
Just before reaching the transition tent, Eliza called out to me wishing me "Best of Luck" for my race!
I am truly surprised! I smiled and waved back to her but thousand of thoughts were racing through my mind.
How is it possible? I have seen her only 10km ago and there are at least 2hrs on the clock till the bike cut-off when we passed each other.
How come she got swept off the course? How about Siew Ling who is 500m ahead of her?
I truly hope she is not swept off too.
Moreover, I did not see any truck ferrying the riders back.
I felt sad for Eliza and hope that Siew Ling will not be a casualty too.
This race is their second attempt at the IM.
While changing into my running gear, BFG came over to check on me.
I am truly surprised again! He was so far ahead on the bike.
I really fear that he had waited for me and jeopardized his own race.
He assured me that he did the last few kilometers at a slower pace.
(Prof, now that I check the results, I kinda of believe you. =p)
This time I made sure that there are no female volunteers near me when I change =p.
Put on my JoyRiders jersey.
My show of loyalty to my two awesome clubs. =)
Out on the run, it is impossible to walk.
Your legs are still spinning as if you were on the bike.
Haha... 7 hours of circular motion, it is perfectly normal, I guess.
Had a good slow jog for the first 2km.
First lap was uneventful.
It is about familiarising myself with the race route.
Saw the The M.Dot man =)
Saw the runner from the bike course! O_o
The second lap is more fun.
FuLing has braved the sun to take photos of us. =)
Just when I was about to reach FL's location who were to come by but KL himself! =D
Both of us slowed for a photo. =D
See what I meant? All my bike advantage has been wiped out within 10km. =(
Just when we were about to pass FL, Ivan came along! =D
We had fun running in a trio for a short while.
Running along Geographe Bay Road, someone shouted out from behind.
"What's your name, JoyRider?"
"Daniel", I replied.
"Hi Daniel, I'm Lindsay!"
While we were having a chat, Greg came along and Lindsay introduced me to her hubby. =)
Passing the Goose Cafe, someone called out "Uncle Daniel!"
It is YP's kids!
It truly helps to have supporters who knows you. =)
There were tons of encouragement on the pavement and most of us ended up reading all of them. =)
"GO DANIEL GO!" Haha, okay this is for me! =D
Every time I see a Daniel/Dan, I will take it that it is meant for me. =D
A guy was puking his gut out.
Walking towards him, I feel like puking too, but I dun have much in me to throw out.
During the third loop, I start doing a system check.
What is that in my left back pocket?
My Timex watch!!! Ouch, I have cleanly forgotten about it!
I could have passed it to Ivan earlier! Sorry, mate!
(I have kept the Timex watch in my Run bag as I feared that my Garmin won't survive the long journey.)
Vegemite bread is now available for the night runners.
While the guys have tried it back at the hotel for the past 2 days, I decided to give it a pass.
If only I knew that it is being offered at the Aid Stations. =p
Near the U-turn, I noticed that the timing mat is supported by two small dry cell battery packs.
I wonder if the batteries can last the whole race?
The M.Dot man is still on the course, sans the dot.
It has been a long day and it must have been terrible to be suited up in such thick clothing. Kudos to the guy.
The Bike Course runner is still on the course!
"Long day for you, mate!" I said.
"You guys have a longer day than me", he smiled.
Starting on my fourth lap, my sister found me!
They were so worried when my timing stopped on IronManLive.com after 21km.
She ran around asking volunteers where the DNF people are being taken to.
Luckily she found Ivan who told her that he just saw me on the run course not too long ago.
My sister walked with me for the entire 10km.
Hehe... kiasu me kept asking my sister not to walk too near to me when there are people around. =p
Scared kena DQ-ed in case the officials appear and red carded me for having a pacer.
After the U-turn, three kids came running towards me.
They are checking out my bib number which I was wearing on my rear. =p
They reported back the number to their family.
I was wondering what was it for?
They held up a string of X'mas lights for me to walk through.
"Daniel Cheng, You are an Ironman", the lady on the laptop announced.
How sweet! =)
I could not accept the title yet. I still have 9km to go.
(Haha, I only figured out why the kids is checking my number after the race. =p
My mind is truly tired at that point, it is a total blank.
The only thought running through then is that I wanna make it to the Finish Line.
Even if I have to crawl, I will DO it!"
Oh, the lady is checking for my name on IronmanLive, cos our bibs does not carry our names.)
A runner past me and said "Keep going, Jodan"
The mind is too tired to figure out who the runner is.
It feels good to have my sister for company for the remaining of the journey.
Just past the tennis courts, I can hear Pete Murray announced "Siew Ling Tan, You are an Ironman!"
Cool! Siew Ling was not dragged off the course!
Oh, she was the runner who past me just now! =D
Haha... with the PA system on full blast, I can hear Pete Murray's plan for the next Ironman Finisher.
"I shall say 'You are an' and you (the crowd) will echo 'Ironman'!) =D
Turning past the transition tent for the fourth and last time, I gladly collect my black wrist band and trotted to the Finishing Straight.
The moment you enter the Finishing Straight, the moment is magical.
After being in the darkness for the past 2-3 hours, you are suddenly the highlight of the event.
The last 50m is so well lit, you feel like walking down centerstage.
I did not see any outstretched hand (so disappointing) so I continued running.
(It is only after the race, I realised that I could have just stretched out my hands and high fives will come automatically! =p)
Passing Pete Murray, I hear the magical announcement
"Daniel Cheng, You Are an" he said.
"Ironman!" the crowd echoed! =)
Past the Finish Line, a elderly lady congratulate me and put on the precious Finisher's medal.
A volunteer draped the Finisher Towel over me.
Two volunteers guide me to the medical tent where I tried to seek help to pop the blisters which has been bothering me for most part of the run course.
My feet were so tender and soaked that the blisters did not look all that bad.
The medical personnel told me to rest the feet and pop the blisters when I am feeling slightly better.
Met my sister and her friends outside the medical tent and took some photos. =)
After that we say our goodbyes and I continue to colllect my Finisher T.
I was in no condition for supper, thus I proceed to have my Finisher Photo taken and proceed back to the transition tent.
Daniel has been waiting for me and promptly drove over to pick me up so that I do not need to walk too much.
Thanks, bro!
We were all so tired that I was contemplating whether to bathe. =p
"No way", they warned.
Haha, all of us were so tired that none of us took out racing gears to rinse.
Especially the wetsuit which all of us deemed too precious to allow it to soak in sea water for long periods (just before the race =D). I guess all of us figured that if we had allow the wetsuit to soak for the past 17 hours, it won't harm to let the wetsuit soak for a few hours more. =D
Had a deep sleep where my room mates mentioned that I was actually groaning the whole night. =p
Sorry, guys!
Overall, doing an Ironman is an Awesome Experience!
The full encounter blog entry should have been written long ago.
Haha, that is why I re-iterated why I cannot write a article for the masses as I prefer to include ALL the boring details. =D
While my roomies prefer to play it safe, I had McD dinner with my sister and friends at 8pm.
Plonked off to bed at 10pm.
Woke up at 2am after a deep sleep.
Had brekkie and put on my wetsuit.
Had Snickers and Daniel's homemade ham sandwich in my Run's Special Needs Bag.
Making doubly sure that we have everything, we made our way to the Race Start.
Prep the bike and went to do a final Royal Rumble.
Then we were off to the Swim Start.
Had a few photos.
Everyone looks calm...
Why??? BIGGEST race of our lives and everyone is so calm?
I had lousy preparation for the race and I know it.
But there is no turning back now.
"SUCK IT UP!" (Yes, this was the actual thought that went through my mind that morning. =D)
I pushed all the lack of preparation thoughts out of my mind.
Focus on the task ahead and hope to see the Finish Line.
Okay... now I know why everyone looks so calm...
Being nervous will not help the cause and I think all of us have been through enough races to quell the butterflies in the stomach.
The Boss gathered everyone and had our photo taken.
It was only after the race that I realised that we have all the FOTR-ers in the photo! =)
The pros start the race and we kept on chatting. =D
I kept my eyes off the pro racing.
No points making your heart beat any faster.
When the horn sounds for the Age-Groupers Start, we started walking into the water.
We figure if we need those extra seconds to finish the race, we are in deep shit. =p
I turned to my right and said to Sean "This is IT!"
"This is IT!" he responded and we both plunged into the cold morning sea for our swim.
After 500m, the swim group started to thin.
No thanks to my lack of swim training.
Another 100m and I can recognise Genevieve swimming to my left.
Haha, fancy finding a friend in the deep blue sea.
1km into the swim, I am almost hitting the jetty pillars.
The currents has pushed me so far eastwards without me realising it.
Decided to swim breaststroke to combat the currents.
Had not walk/run the jetty before, I do not know how the end of the jetty looks like.
Saw the flags. Is that the turning point?
Saw the small huts. Is that the turning point?
With only a few lone swimmers in front of me, I feared the worst.
I do not wanna DNF-ed the swim.
Finally saw the buoys.
Gosh... it is still a long way off to the U-turn.
I am glad when I finally made it past the 3 buoys at the U-turn.
I can barely made out the land in the horizon.
I do not see much swimmers in my view of sight.
Great! We have all DNF-ed the race.
Sooner or later, we are going to get sweep off the course.
Or I hope they will at least let us finish our swim.
Looking down, I can see the sea bottom.
Pretty cool! For a short moment, I reminisce my scuba diving days. =)
With nothing much in sight, I look up at the jetty once in a while.
There are still some supporters walking along the jetty.
Took comfort to have supporters with you all the way, even if the end is a DNF.
With a km to go and the Swim Exit in sight, it get depressing.
I have not seen anyone exited the swim for quite some time.
Gosh, I know I have been in the water for a long time, but I never thought I was in the water for this long.
I din wanna look at my watch, in case it send my pulse racing.
I wonder how bad I am faring as compared to my average 55mins 1.9km swim.
500m to go...
Suddenly, like a scene from a Special Operations movie, I see 10-20 swimmers emerging from the sea at the same time.
I was elated. Gosh, the feeling that flushes over me is indescribable.
There is HOPE!
I took time to find the scene amusing too. =D
Probably the first time I am smiling to myself since the past hour or so.
Some swimmers are emerging so far to the left and right of the Swim Exit, you wonder how far off course they have gone.
I started counting down the buoys to the Swim Exit.
Each buoy felt harder to reach. But I am sure I will make it. =)
The last 100m took forever.
When I am finally out of the water, I am not sure how to feel.
There are still quite a large number of supporters on the shore.
It is unlike the scenario I am used to in Singapore, where there are little supporters left when I had my Swim Exit.
I am still pretty sure that I will be stopped just before the Timing Mat by the officials.
The supporters are clapping, the officials are not stopping anyone.
A look at my watch... 1:48h!
Wahoo!!! I swear I could have jumped for joy, right there right now!
But there are more urgent matters on hand. =p
I could not wipe off that smile for the next minute to the Transition Tent.
I made it! One down, Two more to go.
I still have no idea how the day will end.
Never count the chicken before they hatch, I told myself. (Yes, exact thoughts again. =D)
Took off my Garmin, stripped off the upper half of my wetsuit and put the Garmin back on.
A sequence I tried once on Saturday with horrible results, today everything went through smoothly. =)
Had a short chat with Andrew as we proceed to the tent together.
This really feels like home. =D
You really start to forget that you are thousands of miles away from home. =D
To all my supporters in Singapore, this swim is for you. =D
I finally tag myself on IronManLive.com.
You guys finally have something to do for the next 15+ hours. =D
Just as I was entering the transition tent, Ivan is running around frantically looking for his watch. I wished I could have been able to help. =(
Sitting down at the Transition Tent, a volunteer ripped the wetsuit off me.
He did it so efficiently, it is pretty amazing to watch. =)
Okay, this will have to wait for another IM to watch again. =D
I stripped, trying my best to cover myself with my jersey.
I must have embarassed the female volunteer, one of the four volunteers around me, that she walked away. Sorry, gal.
(I thought it was normal, based on the talks I had with fellow IMs, but I guess it is not. =p)
(If you guys really like to know, go check out IM Swizterland. ;p)
With only a volunteer hovering around me, I got him to lather me with lots of sunblock while I got dressed.
Not an easy task I must say. Thanks, mate!
I took the Prof's advice and put on my biking shorts.
The race is just too long to use a tri-suit.
Once again, if I need those precious seconds, I am in deep shit.
I put on my FOTR long-sleeved jersey for the bike. =)
Dun try anything new on Race Day. Gotcha! =D
I walked to my bike. The legs felt 'dead'.
Gosh, I have to start pumping life into those legs soon.
Got onto the bike with some difficulty, but it is truly awesome to have the crowd cheering you on.
Hmm... I hope they are cheering me on, cos the Pros are just starting to come riding past. =D
Even before we hit out of town, there was the first Aid Station.
The cookies looked tempting, but I must resist...
I am pretty sure my stomach won't hold the cookie.
Turning right out of town, Luke McKenzie overtook me right after the turn!
Cool! The only Pro I recognise from the Pro Start List and I get to see him so early in the race! =)
There is a whole bunch of Pros (based on the Race Bibs) overtaking me right after the turn, but what I find amazing is that none of the Pros trailing right behind me made a single sound when I slowed to make the right turn out of town.
Again, this is something I am not used to in Singapore.
No screeching braking sounds, whatsoever.
A lot of families have their lounge chairs out to spectate.
The cars are at a virtual standstill at every traffic junction. =)
You really start to Live the Moment. =)
Just out of town, I had four to five cyclists ahead of me.
I had to make the decision now.
Picked them off one by one or took them down in one swoop.
50m is a fairly long distance to overtake on the move.
I am surprised I had the legs to overtake!
Overtook one, the cyclist is not falling back fast enough and I am now in the draft zone of another cyclist.
Out of nowhere, an official bike appear. WTF!
Cranked a little harder to overtake the second cyclist.
Once again, I am in another draft zone.
Another official bike appear! Where did they come from! And why two official bikes in such close proximity!
Cranked a lot harder to get out of the draft zone.
Picked off another cyclist and an official car appear! WTF!!!
Three official vehicles just when I am doing my overtaking! *Faintz*
Decided to just complete the deed and overtake the entire group.
(Now that I am writing this, I think the official vehicles are following the Pro Females.)
Seriously, the swoop is not by choice!!!
But I am glad I did.
I am prepared to be overtaken anytime now. =p
Reached the roundabout and one dumb-assed Asian overtook me right at the roundabout. He almost hit the kerb and took me down with him.
After the roundabout, it can get pretty depressing as there won't be much supporters on the course. It is just you, your fellow competitors and the road.
Turning into Coast Road, it feels great to see Sean and BFG.
Seeing Kia Liang and Andrew on the outleg, I started hatching a game plan.
Hunt them down! =D
They will overtake me on the Run anyway, so why not have some fun! =)
Game ON!
The cool thing about having so much friends on your maiden voyage is that you have lots of company for the long arduous journey.
But it also meant that you know who your preys are. =p
I started doing the Mathematics.
This is a 5km in, 5km out stretch.
I probably need to make up 20 minutes to overtake KL.
This plan definitely put some life into the legs.
It is pretty awesome to see the 5-hour bike trainer speciaist on the race course.
I would have gone mad riding stationary for 5 straight hours.
How KL did that for an entire year is anyone's guess.
Having mapped the distance from point-to-point from the Bike Course Drive on Saturday, I started count down the miles to the next junction.
Out on Tuart Drive, it feels awesome to see riders streaming back on the return leg.
You do not feel so lonely. Saw Michelle, Kristal, Ivan, Sean, BFG, Andrew and KL.
I did not recall see Chris nor YP during the Bike. They must have put on some awesome camoflague to avoid detection. ;}
Stopped to top up the Gatorade at the Aid Station on Tuart Drive.
I am running super dry, barely 35km into the Bike.
At the 45km mark, I took a bottle on the move.
The volunteers were awesome, it is as though they have trained for this all their life!
Reaching back to town, I did the silent countdown.
One DOWN, TWO to go.
The Sun is taking a toll out of everyone, but the crowd is just as enthusiastic.
No one is shying away from supporting!
Past the Aid Station and was offered cookies again. =(
Out on Coast Road, I know I had made up some miles on the quartet.
Andrew has already overtaken KL.
Andrew has a really quick transition while I took my time. =p
With a target in sight, I pushed a bit harder.
Saw a runner out along Layman Road! O_o
Took a toliet break at the Aid Station. Not that I need it, but to ease my butt after 85km on the bike. =)
No point just standing around, right?
Might as well do something useful. =D
Took an unpeeled, uncut banana from the volunteers.
The two volunteers watch in amazement as I stuff the entire banana into my mouth in a single go. =p
I did not know I have such a BIG mouth till today.
Overtook KL on the return leg on Tuart Drive.
By now, I am sick of Gatorade.
Too sweet for my liking although I did have it for my training rides.
The cold flat coke taste awesome in the sweltering heat.
Had flat coke for the remaining miles on the bike. =)
Chased down Andrew on Layman Road.
There was a short, light drizzle.
Nice!
Another 60km to go. How am I going to fare?
I have no idea. The furthest I have ever rode is 155km during Bike and Blade.
Keeping my fingers crossed.
Entering Coast Road for the final time, I am surprised to see Sean trailing BFG.
How could it be? Hope Sean is okay.
Watched in awe as Kristal took the huge lead from Michelle.
Kristal is simply awesome. From our first Desaru Ride where she was struggling at the back of the pack to her current form. On her aluminium Obrea no less! =)
Impressive! =)
A kind lady held my bike as I proceed on my 2nd toliet break along Tuart Drive.
Again, I need the butt break more than anything else.
155km. This is the longest distance I have ever reached.
Anything more is a bonus. =)
Daniel Ng and I tag each other a couple of times along Tuart Drive.
I finally won the upper hand during the last 15km when DN stop responding.
Hunting down DN, I took quiet satisfaction in overtaking one of his team mates.
No offence, DN. I just hate your fellow team mate for putting me down time and again.
Saw Siew Ling and Elisa on the other side of the road.
They should have enough time to complete the ride, but it will be pretty close.
The lone runner is picking up the race bottles. =)
170km. The feeling is surreal.
Just like the swim, I did not glance at the watch once.
I was so glad when I passed Busselton Village for the final time.
Reaching the final straight, Pete Murray announced that Luke McKenzie has completed his race in 10th place!
Cool! I have completed the 2nd stage of my race in probably less than 9 hours!
Haha, I can only tell you that I probably complete in 8:55h, cos I did not take a look at the watch! =D
Pass the bike to the Bike Catcher.
Haha, feels like a pro! Cheap Thrill! =p
Seriously speaking, it did not feel like 9hrs. More like 3 hours.
The crowd has been out here as long as we had!
The supporters are awesome!
The whole race feels like a carnival! =)
Just before reaching the transition tent, Eliza called out to me wishing me "Best of Luck" for my race!
I am truly surprised! I smiled and waved back to her but thousand of thoughts were racing through my mind.
How is it possible? I have seen her only 10km ago and there are at least 2hrs on the clock till the bike cut-off when we passed each other.
How come she got swept off the course? How about Siew Ling who is 500m ahead of her?
I truly hope she is not swept off too.
Moreover, I did not see any truck ferrying the riders back.
I felt sad for Eliza and hope that Siew Ling will not be a casualty too.
This race is their second attempt at the IM.
While changing into my running gear, BFG came over to check on me.
I am truly surprised again! He was so far ahead on the bike.
I really fear that he had waited for me and jeopardized his own race.
He assured me that he did the last few kilometers at a slower pace.
(Prof, now that I check the results, I kinda of believe you. =p)
This time I made sure that there are no female volunteers near me when I change =p.
Put on my JoyRiders jersey.
My show of loyalty to my two awesome clubs. =)
Out on the run, it is impossible to walk.
Your legs are still spinning as if you were on the bike.
Haha... 7 hours of circular motion, it is perfectly normal, I guess.
Had a good slow jog for the first 2km.
First lap was uneventful.
It is about familiarising myself with the race route.
Saw the The M.Dot man =)
Saw the runner from the bike course! O_o
The second lap is more fun.
FuLing has braved the sun to take photos of us. =)
Just when I was about to reach FL's location who were to come by but KL himself! =D
Both of us slowed for a photo. =D
See what I meant? All my bike advantage has been wiped out within 10km. =(
Just when we were about to pass FL, Ivan came along! =D
We had fun running in a trio for a short while.
Running along Geographe Bay Road, someone shouted out from behind.
"What's your name, JoyRider?"
"Daniel", I replied.
"Hi Daniel, I'm Lindsay!"
While we were having a chat, Greg came along and Lindsay introduced me to her hubby. =)
Passing the Goose Cafe, someone called out "Uncle Daniel!"
It is YP's kids!
It truly helps to have supporters who knows you. =)
There were tons of encouragement on the pavement and most of us ended up reading all of them. =)
"GO DANIEL GO!" Haha, okay this is for me! =D
Every time I see a Daniel/Dan, I will take it that it is meant for me. =D
A guy was puking his gut out.
Walking towards him, I feel like puking too, but I dun have much in me to throw out.
During the third loop, I start doing a system check.
What is that in my left back pocket?
My Timex watch!!! Ouch, I have cleanly forgotten about it!
I could have passed it to Ivan earlier! Sorry, mate!
(I have kept the Timex watch in my Run bag as I feared that my Garmin won't survive the long journey.)
Vegemite bread is now available for the night runners.
While the guys have tried it back at the hotel for the past 2 days, I decided to give it a pass.
If only I knew that it is being offered at the Aid Stations. =p
Near the U-turn, I noticed that the timing mat is supported by two small dry cell battery packs.
I wonder if the batteries can last the whole race?
The M.Dot man is still on the course, sans the dot.
It has been a long day and it must have been terrible to be suited up in such thick clothing. Kudos to the guy.
The Bike Course runner is still on the course!
"Long day for you, mate!" I said.
"You guys have a longer day than me", he smiled.
Starting on my fourth lap, my sister found me!
They were so worried when my timing stopped on IronManLive.com after 21km.
She ran around asking volunteers where the DNF people are being taken to.
Luckily she found Ivan who told her that he just saw me on the run course not too long ago.
My sister walked with me for the entire 10km.
Hehe... kiasu me kept asking my sister not to walk too near to me when there are people around. =p
Scared kena DQ-ed in case the officials appear and red carded me for having a pacer.
After the U-turn, three kids came running towards me.
They are checking out my bib number which I was wearing on my rear. =p
They reported back the number to their family.
I was wondering what was it for?
They held up a string of X'mas lights for me to walk through.
"Daniel Cheng, You are an Ironman", the lady on the laptop announced.
How sweet! =)
I could not accept the title yet. I still have 9km to go.
(Haha, I only figured out why the kids is checking my number after the race. =p
My mind is truly tired at that point, it is a total blank.
The only thought running through then is that I wanna make it to the Finish Line.
Even if I have to crawl, I will DO it!"
Oh, the lady is checking for my name on IronmanLive, cos our bibs does not carry our names.)
A runner past me and said "Keep going, Jodan"
The mind is too tired to figure out who the runner is.
It feels good to have my sister for company for the remaining of the journey.
Just past the tennis courts, I can hear Pete Murray announced "Siew Ling Tan, You are an Ironman!"
Cool! Siew Ling was not dragged off the course!
Oh, she was the runner who past me just now! =D
Haha... with the PA system on full blast, I can hear Pete Murray's plan for the next Ironman Finisher.
"I shall say 'You are an' and you (the crowd) will echo 'Ironman'!) =D
Turning past the transition tent for the fourth and last time, I gladly collect my black wrist band and trotted to the Finishing Straight.
The moment you enter the Finishing Straight, the moment is magical.
After being in the darkness for the past 2-3 hours, you are suddenly the highlight of the event.
The last 50m is so well lit, you feel like walking down centerstage.
I did not see any outstretched hand (so disappointing) so I continued running.
(It is only after the race, I realised that I could have just stretched out my hands and high fives will come automatically! =p)
Passing Pete Murray, I hear the magical announcement
"Daniel Cheng, You Are an" he said.
"Ironman!" the crowd echoed! =)
Past the Finish Line, a elderly lady congratulate me and put on the precious Finisher's medal.
A volunteer draped the Finisher Towel over me.
Two volunteers guide me to the medical tent where I tried to seek help to pop the blisters which has been bothering me for most part of the run course.
My feet were so tender and soaked that the blisters did not look all that bad.
The medical personnel told me to rest the feet and pop the blisters when I am feeling slightly better.
Met my sister and her friends outside the medical tent and took some photos. =)
After that we say our goodbyes and I continue to colllect my Finisher T.
I was in no condition for supper, thus I proceed to have my Finisher Photo taken and proceed back to the transition tent.
Daniel has been waiting for me and promptly drove over to pick me up so that I do not need to walk too much.
Thanks, bro!
We were all so tired that I was contemplating whether to bathe. =p
"No way", they warned.
Haha, all of us were so tired that none of us took out racing gears to rinse.
Especially the wetsuit which all of us deemed too precious to allow it to soak in sea water for long periods (just before the race =D). I guess all of us figured that if we had allow the wetsuit to soak for the past 17 hours, it won't harm to let the wetsuit soak for a few hours more. =D
Had a deep sleep where my room mates mentioned that I was actually groaning the whole night. =p
Sorry, guys!
Overall, doing an Ironman is an Awesome Experience!
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
11th April 2012 Running
After much persasion from my colleague, I decided to ditch the treadmill and went for a run at BG.
Less than 500m, the two guys dropped me.
Took me time to reach BG MRT, but both of them weren't in sight.
Did a U-turn and completed the 4km in about 30-35 minutes.
Probably going to do more such runs in the future. =)
Less than 500m, the two guys dropped me.
Took me time to reach BG MRT, but both of them weren't in sight.
Did a U-turn and completed the 4km in about 30-35 minutes.
Probably going to do more such runs in the future. =)
10th April 2012 Cycling
Trying to make a change on my BIG day.
Without second thoughts, I prep and went out for my ride.
Hmm... 4 days and my front tire is 0 psi?
I did a simple check but did not find any puncture.
I managed to pump it up to 110psi without issue.
Hopefully it can last me throughout the entire ride.
Any idea what is wrong?
Reached Mandai Shell and was told that Angel Hearts has gone to Kranji and the Newton group has left.
Gosh, that sucks.
Less than a minute later, the newbie group rode in!
Haha, I have company! =)
Even before I have a chance to say "Hello", Daphne and her bud hopped across the road to try out a new route. =)
Just before we left Mandai Shell, YKK and I spot a red Specialized resting on the sign post.
Both of us weren't even aware that anyone was on our left.
While YKK rode off to sweep the riders, I stay behind to see who the bike belongs to.
After two minutes of waiting and still no sign of anyone appearing, I decided to take leave and hope nothing happens to the bike. =(
While waiting at the Bukit Panjang traffic junction, YKK and I were still puzzled who the mysterious owner is when he rode up to us.
Knowing that the gal is in safe hands of YKK, I rode with Philippe to Longhouse where we stopped for a drink.
After brekkie, I did a mini Old Mandai loop before riding home =)
Without second thoughts, I prep and went out for my ride.
Hmm... 4 days and my front tire is 0 psi?
I did a simple check but did not find any puncture.
I managed to pump it up to 110psi without issue.
Hopefully it can last me throughout the entire ride.
Any idea what is wrong?
Reached Mandai Shell and was told that Angel Hearts has gone to Kranji and the Newton group has left.
Gosh, that sucks.
Less than a minute later, the newbie group rode in!
Haha, I have company! =)
Even before I have a chance to say "Hello", Daphne and her bud hopped across the road to try out a new route. =)
Just before we left Mandai Shell, YKK and I spot a red Specialized resting on the sign post.
Both of us weren't even aware that anyone was on our left.
While YKK rode off to sweep the riders, I stay behind to see who the bike belongs to.
After two minutes of waiting and still no sign of anyone appearing, I decided to take leave and hope nothing happens to the bike. =(
While waiting at the Bukit Panjang traffic junction, YKK and I were still puzzled who the mysterious owner is when he rode up to us.
Knowing that the gal is in safe hands of YKK, I rode with Philippe to Longhouse where we stopped for a drink.
After brekkie, I did a mini Old Mandai loop before riding home =)
6th April 2012 Cycling
With no plans in mind, I put on a netural jersey and set out.
First time putting on the IMWA jersey, tons of thoughts flow through my mind.
Reached Mandai Shell and did a U-turn.
Decided to go to Old Mandai Road and do loops.
While descending the steep slope, a bunch of 30 odd JoyRiders rode past.
Decided to tag along for the ride. =)
While pausing at Mandai Shell, I thought I saw BFF on her hybrid.
Hmm... she definitely looks familiar.
Could she be my long lost friend?
Before I could approach the lady, they rode off!
I sweep the last group.
Along the way, I realised that the two guys were actually sweeping the two gals.
Took off when we hit Lim Chu Kang Road.
At the re-group point, I look out for the lady on the hybrid.
Yes, it is Daphne!
Wow, after almost 3 decades!
The power of FaceBook and JoyRiders. =)
Saw the newbies watched in awe as a huge stream of Round Island JoyRiders rode past.
I believe that most of them are thinking "One day, I wanna join them!" =)
Chris told me that we are doing the Kranji Route and breaking off at Ten Mile Junction.
Along Brickland Road, I rode past the traffic light with two other chaps while the rest of the group got stuck.
Daphne rode up and ask me if I would like to join them for brekkie.
I gladly obliged.
Another rider rode up and told me that we were supposed to stop for brekkie and he thinks that we have missed the turn!
Holy Molly! They are telling me this now!
One guy suggested making a U-turn.
I say it is too dangerous for such a big group to do a U-turn and suggest do multiple left turns instead.
Aik stopped to call and informed Chris while I lead the group to where I think the brekkie point is.
"Follow the Ironman and you will never go wrong" one rider said. O_o
We reached the coffeeshop where the Kranji gangsters used to have brekkie and was surprised to find it empty.
Someone mentioned that he heard a group of JoyRiders shouting out to us earlier.
We did the U-turn and join the group for brekkie.
While breakfasting, I think I noticed a blossoming friendship.
I really wish the best for both of you! =)
After brekkie, some of us rode off together and split at Ten Mile Junction to continue our journey home.
First time putting on the IMWA jersey, tons of thoughts flow through my mind.
Reached Mandai Shell and did a U-turn.
Decided to go to Old Mandai Road and do loops.
While descending the steep slope, a bunch of 30 odd JoyRiders rode past.
Decided to tag along for the ride. =)
While pausing at Mandai Shell, I thought I saw BFF on her hybrid.
Hmm... she definitely looks familiar.
Could she be my long lost friend?
Before I could approach the lady, they rode off!
I sweep the last group.
Along the way, I realised that the two guys were actually sweeping the two gals.
Took off when we hit Lim Chu Kang Road.
At the re-group point, I look out for the lady on the hybrid.
Yes, it is Daphne!
Wow, after almost 3 decades!
The power of FaceBook and JoyRiders. =)
Saw the newbies watched in awe as a huge stream of Round Island JoyRiders rode past.
I believe that most of them are thinking "One day, I wanna join them!" =)
Chris told me that we are doing the Kranji Route and breaking off at Ten Mile Junction.
Along Brickland Road, I rode past the traffic light with two other chaps while the rest of the group got stuck.
Daphne rode up and ask me if I would like to join them for brekkie.
I gladly obliged.
Another rider rode up and told me that we were supposed to stop for brekkie and he thinks that we have missed the turn!
Holy Molly! They are telling me this now!
One guy suggested making a U-turn.
I say it is too dangerous for such a big group to do a U-turn and suggest do multiple left turns instead.
Aik stopped to call and informed Chris while I lead the group to where I think the brekkie point is.
"Follow the Ironman and you will never go wrong" one rider said. O_o
We reached the coffeeshop where the Kranji gangsters used to have brekkie and was surprised to find it empty.
Someone mentioned that he heard a group of JoyRiders shouting out to us earlier.
We did the U-turn and join the group for brekkie.
While breakfasting, I think I noticed a blossoming friendship.
I really wish the best for both of you! =)
After brekkie, some of us rode off together and split at Ten Mile Junction to continue our journey home.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
4th April 2012 Gym
Did a 10min 2km run on the treadmill.
10 min exercise on the elliptical trainer.
Weights training. =)
10 min exercise on the elliptical trainer.
Weights training. =)
Sunday, April 1, 2012
1st April 2012 Musings
Been wanting to write this entry for a while.
I feel so lucky to join the fraternity.
After the conclusion of every IM race, I realised that it is not easy to be an IM.
Despite all the training, all the stars have gotta to be aligned for the moment to happen.
The magical moment felt a lot magical now.
I started to replay the last 100m in my mind.
All along, I always felt that if one can complete an OD, a IM 70.3, being an IM will be easy-peasy.
It is just a matter of doubling the distance of IM 70.3.
At least that is how I felt when I cross the IM Finishing Line.
My first thought was 'This is it?', much like my first IM 70.3
On reflection, an IM is a really awesome affair.
A Kona competitor missed the cut-off by 4 seconds
3 friends DNF-ed in 2011 IM races prior to IMWA 2011.
A friend's friend who barely met the cut-off timing for IMNZ 2011 blitzed the run leg to complete the race.
A friend DNF IMWA 2011.
A friend missed the cut-off by 4minutes.
All these never made my moment felt any different.
I guess it is just like my first IM 70.3, where I 'programmed' myself to ignore all permutations and just 'focus'?
Just that instead of 3 months 'programming', I did a year's worth of coding? =D
Same input == Same outcome? ;/
The first thought that cross my mind when IMNZ got canned is 'It is not easy to be an IM'.
And when a friend DNF-ed IMM 2012, the whole moment just feel so surreal.
I do feel for the guys. I really do.
Especially for the IMM DNF-er...
He has to DNS a few IM races due to work and studies.
To be posting on FB barely 3 hours into the race is definitely not something that we all hope to do.
To the best to all IMs for your future races!
I feel so lucky to join the fraternity.
After the conclusion of every IM race, I realised that it is not easy to be an IM.
Despite all the training, all the stars have gotta to be aligned for the moment to happen.
The magical moment felt a lot magical now.
I started to replay the last 100m in my mind.
All along, I always felt that if one can complete an OD, a IM 70.3, being an IM will be easy-peasy.
It is just a matter of doubling the distance of IM 70.3.
At least that is how I felt when I cross the IM Finishing Line.
My first thought was 'This is it?', much like my first IM 70.3
On reflection, an IM is a really awesome affair.
A Kona competitor missed the cut-off by 4 seconds
3 friends DNF-ed in 2011 IM races prior to IMWA 2011.
A friend's friend who barely met the cut-off timing for IMNZ 2011 blitzed the run leg to complete the race.
A friend DNF IMWA 2011.
A friend missed the cut-off by 4minutes.
All these never made my moment felt any different.
I guess it is just like my first IM 70.3, where I 'programmed' myself to ignore all permutations and just 'focus'?
Just that instead of 3 months 'programming', I did a year's worth of coding? =D
Same input == Same outcome? ;/
The first thought that cross my mind when IMNZ got canned is 'It is not easy to be an IM'.
And when a friend DNF-ed IMM 2012, the whole moment just feel so surreal.
I do feel for the guys. I really do.
Especially for the IMM DNF-er...
He has to DNS a few IM races due to work and studies.
To be posting on FB barely 3 hours into the race is definitely not something that we all hope to do.
To the best to all IMs for your future races!
29th March 2012 Wedding
Attended the Babe's wedding. =)
So happy for the couple. =)
So much have happened since I met her at JoyRiders.
From being her Guardian Angel to see her getting married.
Hmm... a rider who dropped her Guardian Angel on her first ride... =D
Congratulations, Babe!
Have a blissful marriage! =)
So happy for the couple. =)
So much have happened since I met her at JoyRiders.
From being her Guardian Angel to see her getting married.
Hmm... a rider who dropped her Guardian Angel on her first ride... =D
Congratulations, Babe!
Have a blissful marriage! =)
25th March 2012 Kuantan Century Ride
This post took a lot longer than usual... Cos I am still in denial mode. =D
Went up North with FOTR on Saturday.
Stayed at the Official Hotel for the Ride, MS Garden.
Was pleasantly surprised how convenient the hotel is and how huge the room and bathroom were!
The day of the ride did not start off well.
The whole team was waiting for me as I went for my second painful bombing run of the morning...
Sorry, guys!
Reaching the Start Point at 7:05am, we have plenty of time to spare before the Flag off at 7:30am.
Rewind...How I got into this ride...
I skip the registration pretty much on purpose.
Never a fan of hill climbs and the painful thought of Tour de Bintan (TdB) still lingers.
Tinge of regret when the registration closes, cos I will do the ride with the FOTR camaraderie more than anything else.
Told myself I will sign up if any of the riders were to pull out.
As luck will have it, Sidney pulled out due to work commitments and Rider 787 was born.
TdB aside, I sign up brimming with confidence that I can complete the ride.
Even after doing the mathematics during the ride briefing, I am totally confident that I will surivive.
Fast forward...
The ride start off at the quick pace.
So much for the 14kmh speed for the first 4km...
(Hmm, Garmin Connect shows 14kmh for the first km =D)
All the way from start till the first climb, I was barely keeping up with Jason.
First 30km was in the 33-38kmh range.
It is easy to keep up as there were 780 riders and draft pack were aplenty.
The first climb over the flyover was easy. I even overtook some FOTR guys.
I cannot say the same for the second climb, a long gradual climb up another flyover.
That was the last I saw of the FOTR riders.
The ride before the KOM was a bit tricky.
(KOM does looks intimidating just before the flyover)
We have just past the flyover but I was struggling down the flyover!!!
Hmm... I am not the only one pedalling hard coming down the flyover!
This portion of the ride is one strange illusion.
I just cannot place a finger to it.
It looks downhill to me, but there is a possibility that the endless bend is warping our vision.
When we hit KOM and reach the summit, I was wondering... This is it?
This looks more like Rifle Range Road than an actual KOM.
I am doubly confident I will survive the ride.
Reaching CP1, 45km at 9:10am (Cut off time 9:30am), a rider exclaim "We barely made it, better get going"
Reaching CP2, 75km at 10:30am (Cut off time 11:30am), I was thinking "Wow, I will survive!"
At the 97km mark, I was struggling.
Came off the bike for a breather.
Felt a little better and hop on the bike.
3km later, we were on the highway!
According to the map, the last 60km are totally flat.
But I was not feeling elated.
The hot scorching sun was taking its toll.
(In case you wonder how hot the sun is... My laundry dried within an hour after washing. Except for the woollen socks. But there were 90% done)
My other worry is the speed and close proximity of the cars zooming past.
We do not have the luxury of a draft pack or police escort to give up any cover.
Turning right onto another highway, I was looking forward to CP3.
Time to top up the bottles and re-evaluate my options.
As the distance dragged on, my speed started to slow.
Not a good sign, especially now that I am on flat roads.
Reached CP3 at 12:10pm.
No more water!!! No 100-Plus too!!!
Argh... With only a water bottle for the next 35km, I am not going to make it.
Not in this hot scorching weather.
A volunteer came over from the provision shop with two 1.5L bottles of 100 Plus and passed it around.
"Abas", he told a rider who wanted to cross the highway to get more 100 Plus.
I knew I was not going to ride anymore, so I did not take a single drop.
Was perturbed with this guy who drank and fill up his water bottles when he hop on the 3-tonner later.
Without any second thought, I sat around with the rest of the riders to wait for the pickup.
After half an hour, a 3-tonner came.
We hopped onto the 3-tonner and were on our way back to town. Or so we thought.
After making the U-turn, it went back to the junction where we came out from the hills and we continue the long ride to look for riders who wanna give up.
Soon we are back at CP3 again. O_o
Continuing past CP3, I was awed by the determination of the riders who are still riding.
Make me ashamed to be on the 3-tonner. :(
These guys are not going to make the cut-off, but that is not stopping them from continuing.
With only a slot left in the overly-packed 3-tonner, we stopped beside a lady just after CP4.
She looks like Judy (It really is Judy!) and she looks terrible.
But she is still continuing. Way to go, girl!
Hitting town, I saw Jason and Peter still riding strongly.
In fact, Jason looks extremely fresh....
Wonder what is his secret?
Reaching the end point, we were unceremoniously off loaded and stripped of our timing strip.
I came in together with Jason and Peter, making everyone thought that I finished the race.
It did not feel so bad, knowing I quit for the right reasons.
I did not wanna reach the Finish Line putting my life on the line.
But it really took a hit in the gut when I realised that Judy finished the race although I can see her suffering so badly after CP4.
Should I have at least attempt?
I was the only FOTR to quit the race. =(
Ipoh, I shall take my revenge... Rawr!!!
Went up North with FOTR on Saturday.
Stayed at the Official Hotel for the Ride, MS Garden.
Was pleasantly surprised how convenient the hotel is and how huge the room and bathroom were!
The day of the ride did not start off well.
The whole team was waiting for me as I went for my second painful bombing run of the morning...
Sorry, guys!
Reaching the Start Point at 7:05am, we have plenty of time to spare before the Flag off at 7:30am.
Rewind...How I got into this ride...
I skip the registration pretty much on purpose.
Never a fan of hill climbs and the painful thought of Tour de Bintan (TdB) still lingers.
Tinge of regret when the registration closes, cos I will do the ride with the FOTR camaraderie more than anything else.
Told myself I will sign up if any of the riders were to pull out.
As luck will have it, Sidney pulled out due to work commitments and Rider 787 was born.
TdB aside, I sign up brimming with confidence that I can complete the ride.
Even after doing the mathematics during the ride briefing, I am totally confident that I will surivive.
Fast forward...
The ride start off at the quick pace.
So much for the 14kmh speed for the first 4km...
(Hmm, Garmin Connect shows 14kmh for the first km =D)
All the way from start till the first climb, I was barely keeping up with Jason.
First 30km was in the 33-38kmh range.
It is easy to keep up as there were 780 riders and draft pack were aplenty.
The first climb over the flyover was easy. I even overtook some FOTR guys.
I cannot say the same for the second climb, a long gradual climb up another flyover.
That was the last I saw of the FOTR riders.
The ride before the KOM was a bit tricky.
(KOM does looks intimidating just before the flyover)
We have just past the flyover but I was struggling down the flyover!!!
Hmm... I am not the only one pedalling hard coming down the flyover!
This portion of the ride is one strange illusion.
I just cannot place a finger to it.
It looks downhill to me, but there is a possibility that the endless bend is warping our vision.
When we hit KOM and reach the summit, I was wondering... This is it?
This looks more like Rifle Range Road than an actual KOM.
I am doubly confident I will survive the ride.
Reaching CP1, 45km at 9:10am (Cut off time 9:30am), a rider exclaim "We barely made it, better get going"
Reaching CP2, 75km at 10:30am (Cut off time 11:30am), I was thinking "Wow, I will survive!"
At the 97km mark, I was struggling.
Came off the bike for a breather.
Felt a little better and hop on the bike.
3km later, we were on the highway!
According to the map, the last 60km are totally flat.
But I was not feeling elated.
The hot scorching sun was taking its toll.
(In case you wonder how hot the sun is... My laundry dried within an hour after washing. Except for the woollen socks. But there were 90% done)
My other worry is the speed and close proximity of the cars zooming past.
We do not have the luxury of a draft pack or police escort to give up any cover.
Turning right onto another highway, I was looking forward to CP3.
Time to top up the bottles and re-evaluate my options.
As the distance dragged on, my speed started to slow.
Not a good sign, especially now that I am on flat roads.
Reached CP3 at 12:10pm.
No more water!!! No 100-Plus too!!!
Argh... With only a water bottle for the next 35km, I am not going to make it.
Not in this hot scorching weather.
A volunteer came over from the provision shop with two 1.5L bottles of 100 Plus and passed it around.
"Abas", he told a rider who wanted to cross the highway to get more 100 Plus.
I knew I was not going to ride anymore, so I did not take a single drop.
Was perturbed with this guy who drank and fill up his water bottles when he hop on the 3-tonner later.
Without any second thought, I sat around with the rest of the riders to wait for the pickup.
After half an hour, a 3-tonner came.
We hopped onto the 3-tonner and were on our way back to town. Or so we thought.
After making the U-turn, it went back to the junction where we came out from the hills and we continue the long ride to look for riders who wanna give up.
Soon we are back at CP3 again. O_o
Continuing past CP3, I was awed by the determination of the riders who are still riding.
Make me ashamed to be on the 3-tonner. :(
These guys are not going to make the cut-off, but that is not stopping them from continuing.
With only a slot left in the overly-packed 3-tonner, we stopped beside a lady just after CP4.
She looks like Judy (It really is Judy!) and she looks terrible.
But she is still continuing. Way to go, girl!
Hitting town, I saw Jason and Peter still riding strongly.
In fact, Jason looks extremely fresh....
Wonder what is his secret?
Reaching the end point, we were unceremoniously off loaded and stripped of our timing strip.
I came in together with Jason and Peter, making everyone thought that I finished the race.
It did not feel so bad, knowing I quit for the right reasons.
I did not wanna reach the Finish Line putting my life on the line.
But it really took a hit in the gut when I realised that Judy finished the race although I can see her suffering so badly after CP4.
Should I have at least attempt?
I was the only FOTR to quit the race. =(
Ipoh, I shall take my revenge... Rawr!!!
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