tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65580851564293667932024-03-13T03:34:54.636-07:00Impossible is Nullrun forest...run...yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.comBlogger241125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-81937485717799748292014-01-08T23:55:00.001-08:002014-01-08T23:55:23.999-08:00Everest Sky Race 2013Moments of ESR<br />
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After months of email correspondance with Bruno Poirier, the race, I felt, was finally confirmed, with his words "Hope to run with you on the paths of heaven..."<br />
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Prior to the flights, was preoccupied with work, and making sure everything is OK. This left me in a state of almost total mental breakdown. It lasted through the next day after arrival.<br />
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Race day T-2. It was a long and steep climb way up to the Shing Gompa lodge. Felt tired, out of breath, with the evening sun bearing down on us. Felt dizzy too. There was a sign warning tourist of the dangers of AMS. Seems like I have most of them.<br />
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Took a long stare at the night sky. We were at 3300m. Everything was clear. I couldn't identify the countless stars here. Looks very different back home. But I could make out the milky way.<br />
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Sat alone, while waiting for the sun to rise above the mountains of Gosaikund. Blissful.<br />
<br />Acclimitization run to Gosaikund pass at 4370m with Claire. I was curious to go higher to see the lakes. The lakes have a clear deep greenish tinge. Didn't stay too long at the lodge near the main lake. Ran down at full speed along the steep trails, leaping and bouncing. No mistakes here, or down you go.<br />
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Race day 1: Crossing the snowy pass of Gosaikund. The peaks now seems nearer. Was eager to descend, but also felt leaving the nice scenery, a bit too fast. Descended in dizziness, but nothing serious. Had to descend in 2 hours of darkness. Not everything is going down. Had to cross countless vertical slopes. Thank God for a team sherpa who accompanied.<br />
There was light from the finishing lodge. But the light seems so high up. How far to go? I was moving sideways, climbing up, trying just to keep it going. When I finally climbed the last few steps, I felt a bit angry to have taken so long. Then I entered the dining hall. Everyone was seated, waiting for dinner in the smoke filled room. I didn't knew if I was dreaming, or was this real?<br />
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Race day 2: Watching Phu dorjee and Upendra Rai blasting down the route with ease. They are among the best in Nepal. Reached Melamchipul after dark. I had vommited once due to exhaustion. Besides the distance was more than 40km in this mountains. Collapsed onto the bed. Couldn't eat dinner.<br />
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Race day 3: Opted for the bus. Some of the strong crazy runners did the full thing in 12 hours!<br />
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Race day 4: Felt renewed. I could race with some of the veteran french runners uphill, and also downhill. We were literally racing up steep slopes, with backpack and all. If you were to asked me if I will be doing this here, I could have said no way. It was too dangerous. Margin for error must be zero.<br />
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Nearing the Bigu Gompa (Buddhist temple), I wasn't sure of the way. A young girl guided me up. Today was good. I reached in daylight.<br />
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Race day 5: Descending for the start. I couldn't help to notice how serene and beautiful the dotting villages around here. To the north, the mountains seems like a fortress of wall, and with valleys sweeping down. The finishing lodge we stayed that night was hit by a thunder/hail storm. The sky seems angry.<br />
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Race day 6: From the start, I had trouble keeping up with the rest. Some blisters on the feet. So, I stopped, and took in the view. I was surrounded by golden millet fields, sitting on vertical terraces, all alone.<br />
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Race day 7: Simigaon was the prettiest village. The Rolwaling area up was even more so beautiful. Every turn was like a scenery painted on canvas. Turquoise streams flowing through the boulders. Mist hovering on the mountains above. Rhododendron forest with hues of green and red. Nearest to feeling of running in heaven.<br />
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Race day 8: Upon reaching the camp site, Bruno cheered for me. I was the last, but that doesn't matter. The path up to here, had been colder, rocky, snowy, icy. With altitudes above 4000m, movement was slow. Then we stayed a night in the camps. It was freezing cold. I couldn't sleep, just counting the hours to the break of dawn.<br />
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The race has to end here, due to the heavy snowfall. We couldn't progress further, so it was decided we head back. I felt disappointed, but I had to agree with Dominique "It's the rules of the montagne!".<br />
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<br />yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-81403534088582453512012-11-26T20:11:00.000-08:002012-11-26T23:28:17.401-08:00Annapurna Base Camp Trek<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Machapuchare base camp lodge</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">The Annapurna 100 race wasn't the only thing in plan. I had wanted to do the base camp trek as well. But I was really fatigued after 70km of trails with timing close to 20 hours, plus my right knee isn't that well. I didn't know how long it would take, but roughly I budgeted 5 days for it. I have an extra day just in case.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">So on 2nd of Jan, I went out to buy some trekking gear. I got a 20+ liter Deuter bag, sleeping bag, trekking poles, thermos, aluminium water bottle, gloves, and 2 pair of socks. Total price is 100 dollars. Just nice.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Later that evening, I went to a steak house to grab a large piece. The odd thing is it doesn't taste like normal steak, so I assumned it's buffalo meat. With lake Phewal view, and the mountains enshrouded by clouds, it was a beautiful sight. Warm enough with the evening sun still out in the sky.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">While walking around Pokhara, I stumbled into a jewellery shop. Chatted with the sole staff named Ramu, who seems like a chirpy guy. With no one around, having some company to talk to was comforting. The thing that attracted me was the huge colorful stones in the shop. There were the usual turquoise, diamond, ruby and jade. One particular jewellery has 5 pieces of sapphire. The bluish color was so bright it made the blue hue stood out from the rest of the pieces. A few chinese tourist went in there, and one guy bought a huge piece of ruby. He had a light to inspect it, and after some bargaining, bought it.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">While the stones were very attractive, the 'stones' that I wanted to see were far away in the mountains. The race didn't provide us with any good view, and I hoped that I could see more of it.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">After buying Ramu dinner, we parted ways, and I quickly walked back to the hotel to get some sleep in the cold night.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">---</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Day 1: Pokhara-Chomrong</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Morning came. I had my stuff ready. After leaving my main bag with the hotel owner, I left for breakfast, and then hailed for a taxi to Phedi. The driver was the same I met yesterday while strolling at the lake. The fee was 1000 rupees. I thought of bargaining with him, but then he seems like a nice guy.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Thankfully today the morning was clear. As the vehicle left Pokhara, the mountains were in full view. I was both excited, but worried. I have no guide, and I have no idea if the route I have planned seems feasible to achieve.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">As the taxi passed Hyangja, I took a glance at where the ultra runners took the turn in towards the hills.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Phedi wasn't really a town, but just a stop with a few houses. An old lady was trying to sell a walking stick, which I declined. The start of the route goes straight vertically up. Nothing but stairs for half an hour. I quickly gathered pace, and soon reached the top where a bunch of elderly koreans where in front. A few more minutes and finally I reached Dhampus, which is really a small village on the top of the ridge. I could see glimpses of the Annapurna range, shying behind the clouds.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">A dog has followed me up, which I wondered if he'll follow me to the next village. But it didn't. Dhampus seems like where he belongs. As I walked along Dhampus, I recalled seeing some familliar routes where we had ran. There were melting ice on the muddy paths as well.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Somewhere at Pothana, I handed my conservation pass for stamping. It cost USD 50 to enter this area. Then it was some more uphills to an elevation of 2000m, before descending. I stopped at Tolka for some lunch.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">The valley sweeping below was gorgeous. To the far west, there's villages dotting all over the hills, some below, some above where I was. The terrain was so hilly, that the only way to reached those places is by walking.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I was wondering how come lunch took so long. Then I learnt that chicken takes way longer time here, and cost more as well. Quickly afterwards, I walked fast to Landruk, where on the race, we had to go down the valley, and cross over to the other side, and climb up the vertical stairs up to Gandruk. Now I could appreciate how hard the route was.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Now it was heading towards my target: Chomrong. I have no idea how far it would take, but from the map it looks quite achievable. I got lost a bit finding the new bridge, by taking a left false turn down the river. Then it was quite a long climb back again. Given my legs are still hurting, it was a bummer.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">The route became a bit wild at some parts. And there wasn't much company. I passed by an Italian couple. Then just before the new bridge, a small village.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">It was some uphill to Samrung, then downhill again, crossing a river, then going up vertically to Jihnu Danda. It was already over 5pm in the evening. I asked some locals there, how long it would take to go up Chomrong, and they said 2 hours. I didn't know if I wanted to continue, then decided to. I walked uphill as fast as possible, planting the poles on the ground with gusto, and hauling up. Passed some caucasians going downhill, and they asked where I started from. When I told them Phedi, there was disbelief on their faces. I think it takes at least 2/3 days for normal hikers to get here.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">As I reached Chomrong, it started to rain. The last thing I wanted was to get wet in this cold. Chomrong is 2170m up, and plus the winter season, it was real cold. I quickly got into the lodge, which I think I was the only one. I finally got to my goal on the first day. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">That night I ordered Dhal Bhat for dinner, reflecting at the route taken for that day. One thing that struck me was how hard it was for the 100km runners who have to reach Chomrong from Gandruk! I remembered meeting a japanese guy after the race who mentioned he reached Tadapani, from Gandruk-Chomrong, at 6.30pm, which was already dark, before proceeding to cut it short by going back to Gandruk, and southwards to Birethanti.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Sleeping in this cold was a different experience. There wasn't any heater in the lodge. I covered myself in sleeping bag, and curled up trying to conserve some warmth. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Day 2: Chomrong<span style="font-size: small;">-Himalaya</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I can't remember the time I woke up. But I did remember eagerly scanning the mountain ranges, and there she was, Machapuchare or 'fish tail' mountain. Indeed the shape of the slope from this angle, it does look like one.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">There was another lodge above, so I went up to check. There I met with 3 Aussies Boaz, Jas, and Leia<span style="font-size: small;">,</span> whom were also doing trekking to ABC, with their guide Bhim. Boaz & Jaz were a couple, with Jaz being half Malaysian.They were the most fun folk<span style="font-size: small;">s</span> to be with. We had a great time chatting over breakfast, before we continued on with trekking. Since we were going the same way, I decided to stick with them after figuring out that I could still have a day to spare, which will make it to 6 days.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Chomrong is actually quite a large village. There were farms all over the place, with small houses and huts dotting. We stopped by at a local store, to get some additional stuff. I got myself a pair of mittens and gaiters. I thought I will need these when going higher up in the snow.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Our next village is Sinuwa, and we can really see it from Chomrong. But, it's a long descent down the bridge, across the small stream, and up again to the same elevation as Chomrong. From Sinuwa, Chomrong seems even more amazing. It's actually perched beside a huge vertical cliff. Sinuwa is a bit higher at 2360meters. After having another round of hot tea, we proceeded with the trek. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Our next target was Bamboo, another village. I was going a little faster, so I decided to move ahead first. Upon arriving, loads of tourist were hanging around the area. There was some American young guys, who said they hired a chopper from Pokhara to Chomrong, then managed to reached ABC and back. But the girl with them had to bailed out due to mountain sickness.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">The rest of the gang soon came in, and we had some tea again. Then we left, and our next target was Himalaya lodge. As usual, I went ahead first. Bamboo wasn't snowing much, but Himalaya, which is closed to 3000m, was experiencing heavy snowfall. I wasn't too worried, but just kept on moving. When I reached Himalaya, it was around 4pm. I quickly went in for some warmth. It was freezing outside.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Every lodge has a heater, which they heat up using gas underneath the table. And over the table, is covered a huge carpet like cloth to trap the warm air. So, one could just sit at the stools beside the table to get warm, while enjoying a cup of hot tea or food.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I looked outside the lodge, and it strucked me, that I was in a freezer. There were icicles from the roof, and a few inches of snow above the zinc. Snow was falling heavily. Outside the floor is frozen solid. I've never been in this environment before, and was kind of worried of coping with the night.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I was worried that my new friends haven't arrived as it was getting late. Somehow they did arrived, but I think it was already quite dark when they did. That night I wasn't feeling alright. I seemed to be dizzy, and not having appetite. I was afraid that I could have ascend too fast. The cold wasn't helping either. While everyone was happily chatting, I was trying to stay in good spirits, while having tea, hoping to get the dizziness away.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">That night, was the first night I spent sleeping under freezing conditions. I thought Chomrong was cold, but it wasn't so. There's no heater here. The best I could do is getting in the sleeping bag, and covering with 1 inch thick blanket. Then stay put, because rolling on your sides is cold too.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Day 3: Bamboo to Machapuchare Base Camp</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">The morning was glorious. It was clear, and the snow had stopped. Everything was whitish bright. Around us, are steep cliffs on both sides, and one has to crane the neck just to see the top.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">This part of the journey is a whole different transformation of the terrain. There's less vegetation and more rocks and cliffs along the way. It was breathtaking beyond I had imagined at every step. The more I hiked up, the more the Himalayas' grandeur revealed itself. On both sides are huge cliffs, and layers of rocks that have been pushed up by the Indian continent. Machapuchare peak seems so far up, and yet it's only 7000 meters. The highest mountain is Annapurna I, which wasn't visible from here. The fish tail part looks huge, and no longer the tiny slice from far away.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">The next stop was Deurali at 3200m, where I stopped to wait for the rest. After another round of tea andd food, we left, and as usual, I went forward alone with a good pace. I noticed clouds were gathering around the top of the peaks, and snow will soon fall. So I quickly moved, hoping to get to the destination before snow sets in.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Machapuchare base camp sits at 3700m. As I went higher up, I could feel breathless. Every step is getting slower. Finally I reached the camp, and as I glanced back, clouds have gathered, and snow fell. My friends took quite some time to reached, but reach they did under considerable heavy snow fall.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">That night we had a frenchman came by. He's probably the biggest human I've ever seen, with hands so huge, they reminded me of the neanderthals. There was also a british couple, whom the husband teaches rock climbing. As we huddled at the table for warmth, exchanging topics, I was wondering if I could survive in this. It's very cold outside. Boaz lent me his <span style="font-size: small;">wool </span>socks, which he said helps keep the warmth even if it's wet.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I took a glance at the thermometer. It showed -10c. This is beyond freezing....Another night in the freezer.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Day 4: MBC to Annapurna Base Camp, and back to Bamboo.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Somehow I woke up 4am. The british couple had mentioned they were going to leave by then! I couldn't imagine how on earth. Not only it's darn cold, one has to break snow. I woke up to see them off, still amazed at seeing them go so early.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I went back to sleep, and I dreamt seeing fishes with colourful tails swimming in a shallow pond.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Morning came, and the rest of the gang left early. I was having trouble zipping the sleeping bag, because my fingers were numb. When I went out, the cold was a shock. It was so cold, I was having trouble with breathing. The points of my fingers were in pain. I wasn't sure if this was normal, but I quickly hurried, while breaking snow, to the next lodge, which wasn't open, due to winter season, and huddled in the toilet to shield from the cold.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">After things normalized, I thought I could make it, so I started moving up. ABC is just another 2km at 4100m, another 300m elevation up. Personally I haven't been higher than 4000m, so this was actually a record. As I glanced back to MBC lodge, there it stood. Machapuchare mountain itself. I finally understood the dream of seeing the fishes swimming. It was seeing Machapuchare in all it's grandeur, together with some of the highest peaks in the Annapurna massif. I was experiencing a primal joy, the sort where you only feel when you're a young innocent child. No longer the cold was bothering me. No longer was I feeling breathless from the thin air. It was ecstasy on a higher level. It was being surrounded by pillars of rocks towering above this tiny self, and I can't help to feel so humble to be there.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">As I finally climbed the stairs to ABC, a sense of accomplishment was felt. I had doubts if I could make it here, with the race, and an injured knee. But with the company of my new friends, and their guide, it had turned possible. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">There's a point nearby where one can see Annapurna itself. It stands on a ledge, with a cliff that goes deep down with some kind of ravine at the bottom. There, one can see the whole 360 panoramic view of the massif. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Annapurna I stands at 8091meters, almost 4km towering higher than where we were standing. How some humans venture to conquer it, I have no understanding. Mountaineering is another dimension that I can't grapple. There's the elevation, the cold, the need to camp outside, and the death zone where oxygen in the air is not adequate for normal breathing. The environment is hostile for human existence. Death happens even to the best of mountaineers. There were some koreans who were paying tribute to the 3 fellow men who had perished last year in 2011, trying to summit Annapurna I. They were lost in an avalanche, and presumably dead. One of them was a well known guy who had done all 14 summits.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Perhaps this quote from Anatoli Boukreev, who was well known for part of the 1996 Everest tragedy, and perished while scaling Annpurna, will make some sense:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></b></i></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><b><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">"Mountains are not stadiums where I satisfy my ambition to achieve, they are the cathedrals where I practice my religion...I go to them as humans go to worship. From their lofty summits I view my past, dream of the future and, with an unusual acuity, am allowed to experience the present moment...my vision cleared, my strength renewed. In the mountains I celebrate creation. On each journey I am reborn."<br /><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">---</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Soon, we departed. After having lunch back at MBC, we left for Bamboo. As usual I went fast ahead alone. I reached Dovan, then waited for them. When they did finally arrived, there wasn't any empty rooms there, so it's trekking in the dark to Bamboo. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">At last, we can now spent the night in not so freezing conditions.</span></span></span>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Day 5: Bamboo to Jhinu Danda</span></span></span>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">We decided to stay a night at Jhinu Danda, which was just after Chomrong. It has the prettiest of all lodges with colourful flowers hanging all over the place. From here, it will just take us another day to reach Birethanti.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Day 6: Jhinu Danda to Birethanti</span></span></span>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The trek, though descending, was still awesome. It gave me some idea how the path was, if I had chosen to run back from Ghandruk to Birethanti. It was mostly a gradual path downwards. We reached Sayuli Bazzar, then decided to hitch a 4WD as a taxi to Birethanti. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">From Birethanti was another ride in a bus back to Pokhara. I was feeling a bit sad that it's all ending, but all things had to end. I was certainly glad to see the boss of the hotel at Pokhara again. That night we celebrated our accomplishment with food at the local steak house, then at the local bar for some drinks. Some local dude, came to our table to start chatting up, obviously abit drunk, and we didn't really like him. When I told him, it had took me 6 days to do the ABC trek, in disbelief, he claimed I was lying. Oh well, I wasn't bothered with arguing, after such an arduous journey.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">After bidding my Aussies friend's & the british couple, farewell , whom were such a good sport throughout, I left for the night back to the hotel. It was still cold in Pokhara, and I was really looking to coming home.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I have came to Nepal to run the 100km, which turned out to be 70km, but given the injury, I was really pushing it. And even without the injury, it was doubtful. Thus I was happy with that.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Then to do the trek itself under wintery conditions was, I think enough to make this whole journey successful.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I was really aiming to gathering 3 points for UTMB. But after some months (I wrote this after a long hiatus), I think I'll let it pass. The himalayas ha<span style="font-size: small;">d</span> cast a spell...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br /></span></span>yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-68446441156665579342012-01-16T22:50:00.000-08:002012-01-16T23:21:46.195-08:00Annapurna 100: The RaceRace starts at 5:30am. I was already awake at 4 sth. It was cold as usual. The major concerns that I had was the low temperature & the altitude. For top, I wore 2xu as base, and the Salomon red shirt as the secondary layer. I also wore the buff, white cap & for pants the knee length Salomon tights. As for socks I wore nike as base, and another thicker socks. I choosed the NB minimus for shoes.<br />
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As for hydration, I used the Salomon XT adanved skin 12, which was great cause I could chuck in the top thermal layer just in case. And I also brought trekking poles.<br />
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5:30am was still dark, with another hour before daylight. We were let off, and soon we were running the streets of Pokhara. The first 12km will be on tarmac. The temperature was in the sub 10 range. But once I started moving, that didn't bother much. We were running past some buildings & houses, bridges, and some minor elevation up.<br />
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I think after half an hour, my right knee pain started to creep up. Not good. Seems like the injury is still there.<br />
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By 12k, the run detoured from the tarmac, into a village called Hyangja. There were spectators cheering us on as we make our way to the first checkpoint. I stopped by to fill some water into the bladder, as I wasn't carrying any. I did bring a 600ml bottle of accelerade as well. At the checkpoint they had ramen soup, with potatoes & salt, as well as water in bottles.<br />
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The route afterwards was 10-20% gradient dirt road. I started to use my poles. I could still move on, with some pain which I could manage. It wasn't at the speed that I usually could push.<br />
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The weather was an anamoly that day. It had been cloudy from morning. Thus, we can't see the beautiful mountain range, even as we were running nearer to them now.<br />
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As I was running on the road, suddenly, a sign showed Dhampus to the right. So I followed. Then I met 2 Nepalese runners who were resting, and they asked for something to eat. So I gave each a date. I guessed they must have bonked or hadn't ate breakfast. Then we ran alongside some open rice fields, when a japanese runner ran the opposite way. I guess he was on the phone trying to find the way. Are we lost?<br />
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Seems like it. A big group of runners, including me, was running in padi fields cut off the slopes, which were kind of odd. I thought we were supposed to run on obvious tracks? Problem was there wasn't much signage from the race.<br />
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Anyway, I followed some guys, and soon we reached a village. That lead uphill where I saw Roger, and a few more meters it was the 2nd checkpoint at 23km mark.<br />
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I went off after having some potatoes, and making sure I have salt in it. The next part was gradually uphill, as we head up to Deurali, Pothana (1890m), and Pitam Deurali (2080m). I kept a fast moving pace, trying to move up the ascent as best as possible using the poles. As we went up, it got more chilly.<br />
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Then it was a really steep downhill, with rocky steps. I had to traverse slowly as downhill caused more pain on my right knee. The poles helped greatly. Else I would have been more crippled.<br />
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I noticed I was moving slowly, which took more time. The 12pm cut off at Gandruk is slowly seeping away from target. There was a Brit lady who I paced with most of the way. She had signed up for 100k, but decided to do the 50 instead. She was kind of chirpy and seemed enjoying the race.<br />
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As I moved past Tolka (1700m), I could see Mount Machapuchare among the clouds. Although it's still cloudy with no blue skies in sight, the mountain size was huge, and at that moment it felt awesome just to be running there. <br />
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It was now drizzling a litle, with cold wind sweeping by the valley. The amazing thing about the track is the sheer vertical drop on the left side, almost a few hundred meters drop. There's no railings, so if you do fell over, it could be a long way down. <br />
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After passing more houses and farms, I finally reached Landruk (37.5km) at 11:20am. Great, I still have 40 minutes to Gandruk. It was all descent with stairs down to the river. With the hampering knee pain, I have to descend slowly. After crossing the bridge, I tried my best to push the pace. I wanted to get to the top before 12. It's steps after steps vertically up. And that's 800m up to Gandruk!<br />
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Just to give you an idea, how high is that: KLCC is 450m plus the antenna. You'll have to plus another 350m. That means the whole KLCC can sit inside the valley, and still you have some space on top.<br />
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I reached Gandruk (1940m 40km) at 12:20pm, exactly an hour from Landruk with a distance of 2.5km only. I took quite a long rest, gulping down ramen & potatoes and even hot milk tea. It was now very cold at around 5c. After leaving the station, I took my thermals out and wore them as outer layer. My fingers were getting numb as well.<br />
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I decided to go for the 70km now, since 100km is out of reach. After this it's still all the way up to Tadapani (2590m). I think I reached it at 4pm, which was really slow. The wind was really blowing hard at Tadapani, and the cold just gets colder. I didn't stayed too long, as I have to move to get to Ghorepani.<br />
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It's still climbing up most of the way here. I bumped into George, and we criss crossed a few times. I couldn't passed him on the downhills, but on the uphills, I could. I was pushing the pace regardless of elevation or fatigue. As we went up to 2800, it started to snow! It was a first for me. At first it started to snow lightly, but as the altitude went up, the snow started to feel more like rain. I was elated to see snow for the first time. But daylight will soon turn into darkness.<br />
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By 5pm I reached a lodge at Banthati (I think), went in and have a hot cup of milk tea. I really needed one, as the snow fell even heavier. George came in, drank his juice, and quickly left. He wanted to get to Ghorepani asap as well. As I left the lodge, a man bid "Good luck with your madness". Well, I guess running in this weather is indeed madness.<br />
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It was some uphills a bit more, and by this time, the thickness of the groud snow has grew into inches. I was alone, and it was getting dark. I turned on my headlamps. It's now trying to see George's track in the snow.<br />
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At the top, I reached a formation of rocks. The westward wind was blowing snow all over the place. On the left & right were sheer drops of unknown depths. It was an awesome sight to behold, if not for the creeping darkness, I would have enjoyed hanging there. Soon after, it was descent.<br />
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And for this reason, I was glad to have the poles again for support and balance. It made descending in snow easier.<br />
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As I almost reached Ghorepani, a guy with a Nepalese runner "Daba" came from behind. They claimed that somebody might have lost the way. Was that George? I couldn't tell. But one of the locals took my lamp and went searching.<br />
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I was glad to reach Ghorepani (2874m) around 6pm. It's very dark now. At least there's a heater in the middle. We all sat closed to it, trying to get some warmth in. It's hard to describe how cold things were. When night sets in, that's when it gets colder by a few notches. It was snowing heavily outside, and some local kids were having fun throwing snowballs at each other. But we were all huddled near the heater.<br />
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I was now thinking if I should just stayed there, and forget about the race. To continue, it would mean going in the dark, with very low temperatures outside. Soon, a finnish couple joined us. Finally after some rest, we decided to make it all the way back to Birethanti. Walking in daylight will take 4 hours. But with the night it will take more than that. I took out my poncho and wore it.<br />
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We started the trek at 7:30pm and kept walking, chatting at some point. Daba was a bit injured in his knee as well, so the finnish lady gave him some painkillers, and their poles to help him going.<br />
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Now walking in the snow wasn't that cold. But as we descend lower, snow turned into rain, and the snow beneath turned into cold wet slurpy mud. After 2 hours, we reached a checkpoint at Banthanti.<br />
It was really pouring now, and coupled with the knee pain & cold, at times I couldn't really take it. But there's no choice to move forward in this terrain. Even if you stopped, there's no fast accessible roads to this part of the trails. The only way is to walk all the way down to Birethanti.<br />
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After resting, we went off again. I was only worried about the 3280 stone steps downwards at Uleri. The steps just kept on going and going without end of sight. It's wet and slippery so each step was cautious. For myself, the knee pain just makes things very slow. Finally the Finnish lady offered a pain killer, and I took it since we have to keep on moving.<br />
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As we descend, I could see faraway yellow lights from villages. It gave the sense of space in the darkness. We were really descending a steep slope but how steep? I couldn't tell.<br />
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Finally when we reached Sudame, things got better. I think this was the last checkpoint, before we walked on open roads still on the descent. I was getting sleepier on the walk. I have finished all my physical reserves, and all I have left was the mental part. I was moving purely on will. The pain killer was also playing havoc with my gut. I knew I could vomit anytime. <br />
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We got lost a bit as well. We should have joined the main road, but detoured abit.<br />
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Finally we reached Birethanti at 1:15am. I think the time was 19:51 for 70km. Roger & Ramesh was there to greet us. I felt a sense of relieve that we have made it. Afterwards I was too tired and cold to think about food. Not that I can eat anyway. I grabbed my bag, head to the cold lodge, changed into a new set of clothes and slept. The thing was I didn't had any blankets and socks, just a thin sheet. It was terribly cold. But I did sleep.<br />
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---<br />
Woke up in the morning with my toes numbed. Went to grab some breakfast and chatted with a few fellow runners. It seems like many has decided to stay at lodges along the path, instead of continuing in the dark.<br />
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After the breakfast, the bus took us back to Pokhara. Though the distance is short, but it took 2 hours as the bus has to move up a hill, then descend on the other side of the valley.<br />
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There was a prize giving at 11:30am, where they hand out medals & certs to the finishers, and a lunch for all the participants afterwards.<br />
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Just some thoughts about this race. NB minimus is indeed not the right shoe as most of the paths are paved with stones that can be sharp. The steps are made of stones as well, so more protection is needed. I think I have tested the minimus to the extreme by using it here. If the path has many stones, it's a better idea to get a thicker sets of shoes, cause it's easier to just step on it, and move on.<br />
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If you were wearing minimalism, one has to think where to step, which waste time.<br />
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For the steps, you'll need to train going up vertical elevation for a few hours. The limiting factor for ascent is your cardio, rather than technique. For the descent, try running down steps in quick succession. It's hard to find the same altitude in Malaysia, but mountains at 1500m should suffice.<br />
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I think this is a very hard 100k to finish within 18.5hr, but it can be done. I was racing with injury so that really slowed things down. But I still doubted I can finish the 100km even if not injured. It will take a few tries to get this right.<br />
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* Sorry no pictures on the race. Perhaps the organisers will have some soon.<br />
Links:<br />
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<b id="internal-source-marker_0.6094207593705505" style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://annapurna100.com/707/2012-route-map/"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000099; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://annapurna100.com/707/2012-route-map/</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br /><a href="http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=1282575"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #000099; font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=1282575</span></a></b></div>
<br />yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-82342279153152385492012-01-15T22:30:00.000-08:002012-01-15T22:32:25.223-08:00Annapurna 100: Ride to Pokhara<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Kathmandu valley </div>
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Descent after passing hills surrounding the valley.. </div>
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Annapurna range... </div>
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Range right of Annapurna<br />
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Stopped for fuel.<br />
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The bridge where we had to walk to get to Pokhara. <br />
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Machapuchare up close.<br />
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View of the blockade.<br />
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It's a festive atmosphere in Pokhara for new year's eve.<br />
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Registration for the race<br />
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Woke up around 4:30am. It was freezing as usual. I had the bag packed last night. The bus, coordinated by Roger, leaves Summit Hotel at 6am. Using the Hotel's request, I got a taxi to get me there. That cost 600nr.<br />
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Not many were still up when I reached. The runners who stayed there had breakfast before the ride. It seems like many participants who were joining this race have strong credentials. The french guy Sylvain Bazin, had done UTMB, and said there's harder mountain races in France apart from that. Tori, had climbed Aconcagua, a peak of 6962m in South America. Then there's the italian couple who lives in the mountainous northern region of Italy. In terms of altitude, I have yet to even reached the highest peak in Malaysia, Mount Kinabalu.<br />
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I secured a right view seat, just to get a closer look at possible mountains & valleys. As the bus heads westwards & up above Kathmandu valley, the scenes of locals minding their own morning life came into view. The outer region of the city has a few brick factories, with tall chimneys spewing up smoke, which was another source of pollution.<br />
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After reaching the top of the hills, it was descent, most of the time. It was a clear day, and some snow caped peaks were in view. They seemed distant. On the right of us, were deep vertical drops of a few hundred meters the least.<br />
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It took at least 6 hours to get to Pokhara. We've had some hiccups at a small town. Seems like the Maoist internal faction were creating trouble by blocking the main road. At one moment, a guy stormed the bus, and asked 2 locals who were in the bus, runners I assumed, to get off the bus. Tourist were actually exempted. But Roger quickly brushed them off saying they were guides.<br />
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As we reached Pokhara, the same group, this time created more blockade with some buses, parked diagonally across the streets just before a bridge. It was a ruinous moment. So, we all left the bus and proceeded to walk the next few km. We hardly walked a few hundred meters, when we boarded another bus from the other side to Pokhara. Our bags will come later.<br />
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From Pokhara, the Annapuran Massif, and Annapurna II & IV views were impressive. This was the first time for me looking at snow caped mountains up close. The idea of running there was tantalizing, yet I am still worried if I could stand the cold or the altitude.<br />
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Upon reaching Pokhara, we have to get off just before entering the city, as it was geared for new year's celebration the next day. Finally, after some walking, we reached Barahi Hotel.<br />
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I met up with Mr Yong Yuen Cheng from Singapore at the venue during registration. He wasn't the only Singaporean. Katja Fink, who stayed there, was also in the race. She was the first lady in TMBT 100k in Sabah.<br />
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The briefing was conducted by Roger Henke and Ramesh Battachan. Race starts at 5:30am There will be 2 cut off times. One at 12pm at Gandruk, and another at Tadapani at 4:30pm for the 100k runners. For 70k runners, one must reach Gandruk before 2pm before being allowed to continue up to Ghorepani.<br />
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We were given maps as well. The course were designed such that you can sign up for 100km, but if you decided to do 70km, you can just cut across to Tadapani, and if you want to do 50km only, a descent to Birethati from Gandruk for 10km will complete that. Gandruk is only 40k into the race, and according to Roger, most of runners will ultimately decide the next due course, upon reaching there. The race ends at 12midnight<br />
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After the briefing, we still have to wait for the bags to arrive. I haven't booked the hotel in Pokhara, and was a bit worried. I have met with Dana, a fast talking Australian doctor, who was doing his housemanship in Kathmandu. I managed to get a booking at the hotel (Three Sisters) he's staying. <br />
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While walking there, even his pace was fast. Upon reaching the hotel, I found out the room was given to someone else. Luckily, Mr Yong has mentioned he had a spare bed. Finally I stayed there, which was a better idea, as it was real close to the starting line. Three Sisters is a 20 minute walk.<br />
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It had been a long day, with the bus journey & briefing. Sleep wasn't easy with the sounds of new year's celebration in Pokhara's street. <br />
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<br />yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-2809741688067011812012-01-13T05:02:00.000-08:002012-01-13T05:02:33.747-08:00Annapurna 100: Flight to Nepal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Suvarnabumi Airport: looks better than KLIA<br />
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The Himalayas! </div>
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Kathmandu airport<br />
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At the top of Tibet Guest House<br />
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Prayer flags in the air...</div>
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Summit Hotel!<br />
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The view from the hotel was just spectacular. The 3 mountain range can be seen from here, a rare scene.<br />
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Temples around Thamel area.<br />
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Another view of Kathmandu in the evening.<br />
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After mr25, I got back to training mode. With 2 weeks to the event, there wasn't much time. Grace Lim graciously lent her trekking poles. I was a bit skeptical at first. But having an injured knee, and having pain, or minor discomfort, as I would like to call it, isn't a promising way to finish even the race.<br />
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So I tried them up Bkt Segar. And it was awesome. I could ascend & descend without putting more weight on my knees, which prolonged the time I could be out there. Or at least, if I was too crippled, I would just use the poles to shift my weight forward.<br />
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I tried 5 loops, ascent of 1000m, at that was quite a workout. I tried 10, but missed out on the last loop, cause I was just too tired, even using my mind to turn things around, I was barely making it out. It was a vertical ascent after all, But I was happy that at least I finished 9 loops for a total of 1872m.<br />
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All in all, I wasn't too happy with the mediocre training, but that's the most I could put up, without getting too much injured.<br />
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The flight to Nepal has a transit in Bangkok for a night. I coudn't really sleep there. It was cold as well, without any jacket on.<br />
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The next day, I was seated next to a couple who were under an NGO overseeing the Himalayas. They were grateful enough to let me seated to the window, and overlooking the Himalaya range. I coudn't contain my excitement as Everest, Lhotse, Lantang, and some other range not within my knowledge came into view. They looked like white clouds hovering above the sky. And our plane cruising altitude seems the same as the height of the mountains.<br />
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The couple did gave some advice on what to wear during winter time in Nepal. Yes, it was winter, which is also the least tourist traffic time of the year. Also, they did warned about the pollution and the safety issue in regard to water & food.<br />
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The first thing that hit me, when overseeing kathmandu is how sporadic the buildings were. Then, how simple, and small the airport in Kathmandu is, compared to Suvarnabumi in Thai.<br />
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I went through the immigration, and luggage check without much hassle. Then I tried to seek the taxi that would bring me to Tibet Guest House. Luckily the hotel said it as it was. After getting another 2 passengers from Korea, and we're off to the hotel.<br />
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Another thing that struck me was the smoggy air, and the layer of haze that just lies across the city. Then there was the shock of the terrible roads & infrastructure throughout the journey. Not to mention the garbage strewn in the waterways & all around. I had trouble breathing a few times.<br />
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Finally we reached the hotel, which was really nice. The management, however, warned us of scheduled power cuts. The room I stayed didn't have a heater, and therefore cheap, costing 24usd for 2 nights.<br />
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Soon, the low temperature hit me. I think it's around 15c. I have been to a server room at 18c, and it was terribly cold. I quickly unpacked, and went searching for winter clothing. The couple had advised to get a 'down' jacket, so I got that, with a pair of gloves. Still, I have trouble with the cold.<br />
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Had dinner, then went off to bed at 6:30pm local time. I didn't have much sleep at the airport in thailand. Sleeping wasn't that pleasant either. Everything is cold, including the bed. <br />
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---<br />
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I woke up the next day, and felt much better. It was way much colder in the morning. I went up the rooftop, and the view from there was amazing. Kathmandu is a big city, and a unique one that is. Every single building is different, with it's own design, number of floors, and color, and age. And the smoggy smell still persists, giving the air a certain permanent odour.<br />
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After having a hearty breakfast in the hotel, I went for a walk across town. I have downloaded the map on my phone, so I figured I could walk from Thamel to Kupondole, where Summit Hotel is located. I also wanted to see more of Kathmandu, so I guess walking a few hours will be a nice idea.<br />
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The interesting thing is, I was mistaken for being a Nepalese a few times. Some sellers spoke to me in Nepalese, and I have to say I wasn't able to speak. But most just ignored my presence.<br />
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I finally reached Summit hotel, after asking for directions at Kupondole. That place was just luxurious, and even has its' own pool. Roger Henke, the race director was gracious enough for a chat. We talked mostly about the race, and notably the cut off times involved. He has this kind of grin, that somehow I felt like saying "this 100km is real tough, and if you aren't a local, you have no chance of completing it". There's truth in that as I would later find out.<br />
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The race TMBT 100km in sabah was generous with 36 hours. You could walk that entire course with that time. But Annapurna 100 is 18.5 hours only. And given almost 6000m in total elevation, that is one tough one to pull off. Yet, the local runners are doing it in sub 12 hours!<br />
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After the chat, I walked back to Thamel, passing some old temples, which was kind of interesting as well. But I wasn't too focused on the sight seeing part. I knew I have to get things packing for the next day's ride to Pokhara.<br />
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<br />yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-53727641466583305362012-01-13T03:35:00.000-08:002012-01-13T03:35:21.205-08:00MR25 ultra marathon: Injured<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While training for both MR25 and Annapurna100, I tripped over a root and scraped my right knee on the trails. It was bad enough, as blood were streaming down to my socks & shoes. Worse, I could see half a cm gash deep in the knee cap, with some scraps around.<br />
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Thankfully, some passer by gave me a clean towel, which I wrapped onto the knee. Then, painfully, I walked gingerly back to my bike, and walked & cycled slowly back to my house. It was serious enough to take a trip to the clinic to get it dressed up, and got some medication.<br />
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It's a bad time to be injured. I've got a major race coming in 3 weeks time.<br />
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The first day, I walked with lots of pain. After 2 days, it felt better.<br />
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I resumed training on the 6th. I have no choice, given that I have to race MR25 ultra in Singapore. I ran 2 times around my house, and once in FRIM. But I knew it will be hard for MR25.<br />
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For the first loop of MR25, the usual pain at the right side of the knee kicked in. That slowed me down considerably. Khaliq Samat seems like injured as well.<br />
<br />The weather was pretty cooling with clouds, that rained a bit. I turned on the ipod to mask the pain.<br />
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But that's the most I could do. I quit after 5 loops. Then I felt the usual nausea, which means I will be vomitting soon. Which I did. Actually I was more depressed of the vomitting than the injured knee.<br />
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After I did some study, it dawned on me that I suffered from hyponatremia, a condition where your body loss to much salt (Sodium specifically), and couldn't balance things up. I couldn't believe that after all these years doing ultra stuff, I have neglected this basic principle.<br />
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But you learn from mistakes & injuries. Life just have to go on.<br />
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<br />yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-6671850416946006192012-01-13T02:08:00.000-08:002012-01-13T02:08:42.121-08:00Nike We Run KL: Breaking the Barrier<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Just a day after the 5km race, my sis & I joined the Nike 10km run around kl. The start was a bit confusing. How come some runners get VIP treatment? While we're waiting at the start, the usual strong guys were there, and some kenyans too.<br />
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As the start time draws near, they let us pass the front VIP pack. I inched my way to the start. Then we're let off. The first few km was just trying to get the pacing right. I noticed Jasni was way in front like 150m. Then Richard Habeya came rushing by. Oh, seems like he got the legs this time.<br />
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Anyway, as we went into brickfields, I managed to inch closer to Jasni. At moments, he was trying to push forward. Alongside us were the women kenyan runners. Running at this high speed was zen. I didn't feel like dying, nor do I feel like I could run faster. Everything just flows. I didn't want to push things so we went along together.<br />
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At 5km mark, I clocked 18 minutes. As we went along the way at Bank Negara, I passed Richard. I was actually trying to chase Ong Wei Xiang, who's putting on a fast cadence, out running both Jasni and I. I knew we have like 2km left, so I tried to bridge the gap. That was succesful. Then as we ran pass the last water station, I knew there's another hill before going down to the finishing.<br />
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I used my mind to bend reality. I imagined the hill was flat. And I went all out. By the time I reached the top, there's no more pacing or running style. It's do or die. I raced to the finishing arch in 37:24 to get 6th in my category (25 above), ahead of Jasni and Ong.<br />
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There wasn't any prize, as only top 3 were given. But it doesn't matter. For once, after working on speedwork for almost 2 years, and figuring what works and not, I've managed to break another milestone. And that's what really matters.<br />
<br />yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-35440211452775364902012-01-13T01:52:00.000-08:002012-01-13T01:52:31.043-08:00Larian Koperasi: Run like HellIt was a really short run of 5km. But somehow, it seems like all the elites are here, including lots of indian runners. Some guys looks like they have been doing track work for ages. Rumours has it, since that the kenyans aren't allowed in this race, more fast runners showed up to get a swipe at the prize.<br />
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Anyway, from the start as we were let off, lots of runners were doing sprinting work. I noticed Barry Lee went ahead too fast. Now, I always been wondering why he shoots off like that.<br />
<br />I kept my pace, as I knew we'll encounter a hill. Somehow, I managed to inched behind Jasni. We went up the hill with lots of huffing & puffing. It seems like no one is setting any pace. If you've got something left in the tank, just go.<br />
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So that's what I did. There's no pacing needed in such a short race. I managed to passed him, but I can't really remember where. All I know I was home running this.<br />
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When I was done, he had just finished behind me. For once, I've managed to beat him. But I knew 5km isn't our bread & butter. And it's not the best yardstick to predict consistent results.<br />
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Turning into the finishing.yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-52460926077648269352011-12-14T05:17:00.000-08:002011-12-14T05:17:29.634-08:00Powerman 2011: Hot Race<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A</b></span>fter a week from TMBT, I don't have much confidence in pulling off this one. Finishing yes, but racing at peak ffitness is another matter. I just managed to do 2 short runs, and one cycling course for preparation. Running an ultra drains you for a few days.<br />
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Weather was predicted to be hot. Odd thing was, in rained buckets the day before. After looking at the winners list last year, I found out a surprise. Not only Danny Feng was a strong cyclist in P2k, he also won 2nd last year. That shows he's a pretty fast runner as well.<br />
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Race day. I stood at the front while waiting for the flag off. When the gun started, I quickly went up. I wasn't that fast. I didn't think my legs were there. So I tried the faster cadence method instead with lower cardio holding. What was surprising, Chan Jun Sen from UPNM was running alongside me. With the pace we were running, it's pretty fast. Another guy wearing black from singapore was fast too. At times I was chasing him, and at times I passed him. Somehow when I passed him, he would try to attack. I tried to keep my ego down. This wasn't the time to push all out. There's still the cycling leg and another running leg. Eventually I would learned that he was the winner for aged 20-29. The first run was completed in 0:40:28.<br />
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Time for the bike. The first few km was trying to set the speed up to 40kmh. Then somehow, more and more guys bunched up in what I could say was the first non pro leading group. Chan Jun Sen was with us as well, and we're both wondering why some guys in front were obviously drafting. I did my best not to draft by staying on the sideways or some lengths behind the cyclist in front.<br />
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When we reached a small bridge, there was a slight slope that caused my bike to dipped and shoke. My water bottle fell off. I just had one. In that moment I slowed down. I was wondering if I should pick it up, or continue. That aero bottle cost 120 per piece, but I decided that I could probably win back some cash to cover it up. If I had stopped, I would have lost the leading edge.<br />
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Problem was that was my electrolyte drink as well. I didn't brought any gels, so I thought that would suffice. I resorted to slowing down at water checkpoints to get water, but I ended up with gatorade. Something that doesn't sit easily with my stomach.<br />
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On the 2nd loop, we caught up with Shahrom. He stayed until the end. I could see that he was too trying to avoid drafting. There was a marshall beside us that warned some of us who were drafting. But on the 2nd loop, things were harder. We were passing slower guys, and some parts of the lane became smaller.<br />
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I do remember on the way back, a marshall standing beside the road, yelling at us asking us to break up.<br />
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2nd run. Things were tougher. I had twice of gatorade on the bike and it wasn't sitting well. Besides, the sun was up. Luckily I got my shades and cap. Without both I would have slowed down considerably. At water stations I was walking and pouring water on my head just to cool off. The heat always slows you down. And doing a fast pace is pretty hard.<br />
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I finished with a time of 3:12:37. Given the circumstances after 100k TMBT, I was pretty ok with the timing. Then I saw Richard Tang stumbled into the tent. He was drenched in sweat and looked like he had a bloody tough race. Then to my surprise I saw Danny Feng came in later.<br />
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After some hours the race, I was glad to make it 3rd. But such was the toll of the race on my body, that I wasn't pretty coherent during prize giving. I think the heat and gatarode might be the problem. But finishing with a better time margin than last year 3:34:24 proves that all the hard work in speed has paid off. I had a better cardio engine now. It's a matter of tweaking it to any races, given the adequate time to train, to perform at peak.<br />
<br />yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-16325196914357181422011-12-04T03:17:00.001-08:002011-12-04T23:05:11.830-08:00Sabah TMBT: The Most Beautiful (Brutal) Thing 100km<br />
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The 100km route...<br />
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At the start...<br />
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After CP1<br />
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Running back to CP 7, among the padi plantation... <br />
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I've done quite a number of ultra runs on the road. But not many on trails.<br />
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100K's are always tough even on road. Put trails in, and it becomes a few times tougher. Put in the elevation and it adds up even more.<br />
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To date, I've only attempted one 100k trail which was the TNF sg last year. I DNFed at 60k after puking, which I believe was caused by gulping 2 power gels.<br />
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Sabah's TMBT was my next attempt at 100k trails. After 2 day SAC ultra run in the middle of the year, I knew before hand, the ups and downs can be horrendous.<br />
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Race day. I was bumped in with Tony Quay and Mr Chong. We woke up just after 3am. With a hazy mind we packed, then went down for the bus which will take us to Kota Belud. I seated beside Vincent Casanova, whom I had met at SAC ultra run as well. We chatted, and as the morning lights came out, the beauty of Sabah captivates us. The crocker range was clouded in mist, with hills poking up everywhere.<br />
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Finally we reached our destination. The first thing that struck me was Mount Kinabalu. I have actually forgottten the fact that this mountain is the most obvious towering object on the horizon. The view was just beautiful.<br />
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After some photo sessions, it's time for the start. We're let off the hook, and slowly I started up my pace. Jimmy Tee ran alongside, and we both made up a good pace. From the start, we both agreed on a quick pace. He was doing 50k, but I didn't mind.<br />
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There was a caucassion dude was trying to follow us, but soon lost it. I think he was the winner later. The first check point (CP1 9.5km) was reached without much hassle in 0:51:39. I took some water, and then we both shoot off.<br />
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Then Dino came from behind. I guess he's into racing mode. All 3 of us just tried our best to keep up with each other. The pace was as quick as possible. Most of the steep inclines, we just ran regardless.<br />
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Then we reached CP 2 19.5km at 1:55:35. But somehow after that, I just slowed down. Jimmy was trying to coax me to run faster. But I was wearing the NB minimus which was low profile, and slowed me down at the gravel roads, which was aplenty. Actually most of sabah road trails are made up of gravels, as they are used for 4WDs to go through. And of course, another thing is I didn't want to push the pace now. 100k is too far a distance to know if you can even survive that.<br />
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At CP3 27.5km, I could still see them from behind, but then I lost them afterwards. Reached CP 3 in 2:34:49. The locals put up some music with gongs. I thought that was nice.<br />
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There was a bridge that I had to crossed to reach (CP 3a) 3:17:01. The river passing beneath was just beautiful with crystal clear rapids. If I could have more time, I would have gone for a dip.<br />
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After CP3a, was another hanging bridge. The condition was so bad I thought any moment the planks might break. Then there was a very steep incline uphill. Luckily it wasnt too high. That descended into a river that we have to cross waist deep, but it was a very slow moving and crystal clear as well. It almost begs me to stop for a relaxing dip, but this is a race, and I've got to move on.<br />
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After more villages, and crossing a final bridge, then that's when things become tougher. I've anticipated from the map, that things will go uphill after CP3a. In fact the previous entire route is pretty flattish. I went uphills, downhills, crossing into single track trails, small streams, and then finally reaching an opening which I thought was CP 4, but wasn't. There was some drinks provided though.<br />
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A caucassion guy who was doing 50km distance passed me at this point. Then I reached a major bridge, which lead uphill for almost a few km! Had to walk that one, cause it was just mind boggling steep. It started to rain as well, so I took off my poncho and tried it on vainly. Didn't bother with it later as it stopped.<br />
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Finally reach CP4 41.5km at 4:59:46. Overall my ranking was still 2nd. Dino was first, and he had left. The call for muslim prayer had started, so I thought I might as well do the combine prayers at the nearby surau. I think that took me 10 minutes. Soon after I finished, I was surprised to see the Czech guy and Khaliq Samat came in together. Uh oh, time to shoot off again.<br />
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So I put on a descent pace, and get my legs running up to CP5. The route was indeed getting exponentially steeper with very long stretches of 30 to 45 degrees inclination. The skies was getting darker as well. I just managed to reached CP5 49.8km just before it rained very heavily. Time taken was 6:10:09. Considering the terrain, I think the timing was pretty good. There was lunch provided nearby, so I digged in. Dino has already left for the next checkpoint. With another 50km to go, one will have to eat. I remember seeing the czech guy came in and left. Then Khaliq came afterwards as I was just finishing my lunch. Ahmadul, who is quite a seasoned athlete in triathlon and adventure races, came in as well.<br />
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I think I spent around 20 minutes for lunch. As I was leaving, Ahmadul followed suit. I was determined to create a gap, so I started jogging towards the steep slope up to CP6. Then it was climbing stair case most of the way, and boy was it long. It took forever to reach the village, and finally CP6 (7:01:48).<br />
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Then it was going through a rubber plantation, hill rice fields, and reaching a dense forest that we have to loop to get through CP6a. I remember the view here was just spectacular, especially the high padi fields. At first I thought it was the usual "lalang" (tall grass), but on closer observation I could see green grains.<br />
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Running past 50km wasn't easy. So I coax my mind, saying that running 100km is a privilege as you get to see more of Sabah.<br />
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I reached CP6a at 8:03:15 after much slipping on uneven mud and undergrowth. At this point, I just regard the slipping as necessary movement, and tried the best to get fast over it. Met with Puzi and Shine coming in. I told them they have another hour to go. <br />
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When I finally reached CP7, I looked at the sheet; the leader was 40 minutes ahead. Strangely, I heard someone calling my name, asking me to sit down and have food. I didn't really cared, until I realized it was Dino. He said he was resting (due to his knee problem) and the czech guy has left a long time ago. I didn't want to delay further, so I said I'll go. He followed, but not for long. So, I just ran downhill all the way up to CP8 (same as CP 4) clocking 9:33:28.<br />
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At the rest point, I took out one sachet of electrolyte, and poured it into the bottle. Took a few sips, and I am off again. It's back to the major bridge, and then turning left for a long 4km climb! Saw Tony on his way up to CP4. He's doing 50km, so I guess he's well into target to reach CP5. At the bridge I hesitated with the direction until a british guy from HK (doing 100k) confirmed the route. So we went uphill together. The route wasn't easy as it took us more than 30min to reached the top. From some chat, he said he had done HK 100, and it's more steeper. He was carrying a Salomon bag, which I though was cool looking. <br />
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Then I felt something unwell, and I puked for the first time. Uh oh, not a good sign. But I kept going on. I have puked on too many occasions, so this time it wasn't s surprise. I was trying to pinpoint what went wrong and it could be the electrolyte I had drank at CP8. It was the same brand but different flavouring (orange).<br />
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By the time I reached CP 9 at 10:43:43, I wasn't in good shape. Dino and Ahmadul had caught up. I signed in at 3rd for 100k, but then I knew my race was over. I couldn't keep up with the duo, and it was getting darker. Dino mentioned the hills here were tough, and judging by all the past terrain, there's some truth in it. But the truth was we were running on a ridge, and it wasn't so bad. The thing that was, I was getting delirious from the purging. I purged 3 times, and ran out of water.<br />
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It was really walking & running afterwards. I stopped by at a side hut and lay there for 10 minutes, staring at the night sky, pondering how much more to go. With a tired body and mind, I pushed on further until I reached a house. I had ran out of water so I though I could get some. Turns out I was too messed up to even continute. The problem with me, was, if I puked, that's it. It's white flag. It has been at TNF sg, & MR25 last year.<br />
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The house owner, a local Dusun guy invited me to go upstairs. He was very nice to let me sleep on the sofa. His wife cooked a plate of rice and fried an omelette, and made some tea. I said I'll need to rest for the night, and they were ok with that. I tried calling Aman Avtar (organiser) to tell him where I was, but couldn't reached him. Then I messaged Raymong Ng & Tony saying I was in some house at a village. I did told them I was considering DNF, but Tony said something like it will be wasted since I wasn't too far from the fiinish. After my head cleared up a little, I recalled the cut off time was 36 hours. That means I still have 7pm the next day to reach.<br />
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I knew I couldn't run at this point, so I opted to sleep till 6am the next day. The house owner has a few dogs, and they barked whenever the runners ran past. Aman, himself came by at 12 mignight to check up on me. I was so surprised to see him. I guess he must have got the message from Tony. He thanked the house owner for letting me rest there. <br />
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Morning came, and after a good rest, I was feeling pretty good again. My gut wasn't protesting so I ate the rice and omelette, thanked the host, and left. I guess there's some good thing after all. I could now see more of Sabah's trails, instead of darkness if I had continued.<br />
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Some more steep downhills and I reached CP 10 after 23:34:37. I have rested more than 10 hours. From here on, it's running all the way down to the finishing. I passed some guys who were walking the trails. They had it rougher, as they had been up all night.<br />
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Just before reaching into Kg Pukak, I met a singaporean couple. I thought the ending was near, but we still have to go through some single track trails before crossing the last hanging bridge to the finishing.<br />
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The ending was just beautiful, with a river flowing beside a cliff, and an open field. I was just happy to see the ending. Finally it's over. Time taken was 25:13:50<br />
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This is an indeed a very well organised race. I have enjoyed most of it, and the view is just worth it. There's also 2 points to qualify for UTMB (Ultra Trail Mount Blanc), which is the top ultra trail race in France.<br />
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Another thing which I was satisfied, is that I have managed to read the entire route pretty well. After watching Kilian poured over maps in youtube, I now understand the importance of studying the map, and knowing which are the hard sections, and which are not. It's the same as Lance Armstrong, who does a rekkie of the current tour's route. <br />
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Personally I have finally finished a 100km ultra trail run. This one wasn't easy. I've done FRIM runs and the climb just pales in comparison. Total elevation given was 3450m. But I could stomach the hills. I've set my mind to overcome that. You can give me as many hills as possible, and I'll climb every single one of them. But I couldn't overcome my gut. I will still need to figure that out.<br />
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My next trail run will be MR25, then Nepal Annapurna 100km, and HK Vibrams 100km. I coudn't wait.yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-29857687089784152552011-11-30T21:43:00.001-08:002011-11-30T21:45:50.689-08:00PJ Half marathon 2011: Tough Fight<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There was an absence of strong runners in this race. Later I found out the reason was there was quite a huge number of kenyans in the field.<br /><br />I haven't been running long distance races. And it had been a long time since I raced for 21km, so the question is if I could mantain a sub 4 pace for that long. I did do a fast time in bkt aman run, with a time of 1:22, so perhaps I could last for that long.<br /><br />The race started, and the kenyans went off in a group. I tried chasing them, vainly, for the first 1km. Then Peter and Shaharuddin came passing by. Peter the french guy, commented I was too fast out from the start. <br /><br />Anyway, we ran into the adjoining Federay Highway, and I soon lose the duo. As we ran the u-turn, and back down, I was shocked the see a japanese runner in orange, ran past me with ease. He was kicking in at a higher cadence. I was dumbfounded how easily he could past me. <br /><br />Then an indian runner came by. We ran side by side for almost the entire way up to the u-turn near the subang airport, but I soon lose him. He said he was just training for PBIM.<br /><br />I could see an kenyan lady runner ahead. So that became my carrot. Without knowing if I could really pass her, I just kept on chasing. At one point, she slowed down, and that was when I passed her. At least I could say I passed a kenyan.<br /><br />The run back was a lonely one. I didn't feel I pushed too hard on the cardio, but just trying to get the pace correct.<br /><br />Came back in 12th position in 1:22:20. Was pretty happy with the sub 4 pace. At least I know I could maintain it for that long. The top 9 position was taken by kenyans. Shaharuddin was in 10th place, clocking 1:16. That was an awesome 3.5m/km pace.<br /><br />But I had sharp shoulder pain. It was bad enough to the point I couldn't lift things up.yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-54057448431711768572011-11-23T19:30:00.001-08:002011-11-23T19:33:05.218-08:00Running with Kilian Journet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVrzTttjyD4/Ts26r6pCknI/AAAAAAAACt8/VskVTYD_WPI/s1600/salomon-kilian-run-kiara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVrzTttjyD4/Ts26r6pCknI/AAAAAAAACt8/VskVTYD_WPI/s320/salomon-kilian-run-kiara.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Kilian Journet is now considered the best trail & sky runner, with impressive wins in the Western States 100m, UTMB, and with his final win in Mount Kinabalu Climbathon this year (last circuit of the sky running series).<br />
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World of Sports was gracious to host Kilian and Gregory. Both of them gave talks & shown videos on the design, and manufacturing process of their products. Makes you want to splurge on their stuff.<br />
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Then, the highlight of the day, was having a short trail run in Kiara, which was something I was waiting for.<br />
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We started cruising slowly. After awhile I ended up running behind him. I was trying to observe his running gait. I noticed lots of forefoot landing, and he's always like leaning forward during the run. He wasn't running fast, but I bet that he's just taking it easy.<br />
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We came out of the trails section to take a breather. Then it was back in for the last 2k or so. Suddenly I found myself chasing the Malaysian elites, who were chasing Gregory. We were going like 3.5min/km pace up and down the slopes. The final section has us jumping 7 feet downhill. I woudn't have done that if I were alone. <br />
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He was wearing the Salomon S-Lab Fellcross, one of the shoe that is in my list, but not out yet here.<br />
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http://www.salomonrunning.com/my/product/s-labfellcross.html<br />
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Kilian was wearing the Salomon prototype, which he wore for UTMB as well. Between the two, I would have got Kilian's.<br />
It's so much lower profile, and lighter.<br />
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Met with Jimmy Tee, who I mistaken was a Singaporean. Apparently, I wasn't far off. He studied most of his life there, hence his accent. He was going to do the TMBT (The Most Beautiful Thing) 50 as well. Judging from his 50k time in TNF SG, he's a pretty fast runner.<br />
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We ended the session with more photo sessions. It had been a great experience running with the God of trails. If only I could run as fast as him up mountains.yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-15209560175836809342011-11-15T05:44:00.001-08:002011-11-15T21:18:20.247-08:00Perhentian Island Challenge 2011: I survived<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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At the start of the elite<br />
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Perhentian Island Kecil (small)<br />
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Arriving at the big island camp site<br />
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At the finishing. <br />
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Perhentian Island Challenge is one of those race that has intrigued me for eons. It seems like you not only do running, but swimming, kayaking and some obstacles. But then that was years back. Since it was taken by a new management, the format has been slightly less complicated, but tough nevertheless.<br />
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Another reason to do this is because I haven't step foot on that place before. So, it's more or less like a holiday.<br />
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I joined the elite category, which comprised of running 9k on the big island, then swimming across 1.2k to the small island, and finally running 14km to the finishing. Novice were only required to run 14km on the small island.<br />
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The problem with this race is you've got to put on or carry the life jacket plus your gears during the swim. How you do that is up to you. Prior to the race, I was trying to figure out the best way to minimize drag. I tried swimming in a life jacket and it was really slow. Andrew Loh gave an idea of getting a trash bag, then putting in everything including the life jacket, then tie it to your waist during the swim. He got that idea from a participant who did the same last year.<br />
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Race day. The elites have to be ferried to the small island for the opening ceremony. Then back to the big island for the start. Kind of unnecessary I think. When the race started, the strong guys rushed to the front. I was just trying to get into a good pace. I didn't know the route well, and don't want to push too hard. We started at 10:15am, and it was already hot. We ran some sandy beaches section before heading into the woods.<br />
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Then things got harder. The elevation went up and down steeply, but it was something I could handle. After the worst of Tioman Eco Challenge, I could stomach this. But still I was too cautious on the footing on downhill slopes. I didn't want to risk it. One mistake and you could easily get injured.<br />
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I caught up with Razani, who was wearing the S-Lab4. We ran some sections together before getting out onto the final stretches back to the start, where we had to embark on the swim. It took me 1:06 to finish the loop.<br />
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I had put the trash bag in my back pack. I took it out, then proceeded to dump everything into it including the life jacket. Then made a knot with a string. Unfortunately I forgot to dump in the race vest and my cap. While doing all this, Cheah Mei Mei was beside observing. I didn't realized until she offered to keep my cap.<br />
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So it's off to swim! A few strokes and it wasn't easy to adjust to the awkwardness. Found it kind of hard to kick because i could tangle my legs with the string. In the end I resorted to hand pedalling more than kicking. Also I realized that the current was pushing me northwards, so I adjusted my bearings.<br />
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The swim took 40 minutes, and boy I was glad to land. I tore open the bag, then wore back the shoes & hydration bag. Cheah Mei Mei was there to returned my cap. I was really thankful for that cause I wouldn't survive without it on the next run.<br />
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The smaller island route was pretty easy on certain sections. But the open hot sandy beaches were torturous. Reminded me NOT to do desert runs like MDS. I met 2 guys without enough water, so I gave them mine.<br />
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Certain parts really had me down. I think it was due to the heat & humidity. When in the jungle, it can get pretty stuffy & humid. I was reduced to walking certain stretches. <br />
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The last stretch at the staircase gave us a beautiful view. We have to go to the bottom to get to the checkpoint, then up again to descend to the finishing. Sweetest thing about this part is I managed to pass 3 navy guys on the way up.<br />
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Then ran down as fast as possible to finish in 8th with the time of 4:22. But I was truly knocked out from the heat, trails and swim. Sitting there at the finishing, and looking back at the other island really made me wonder that I survived this. <br />
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Great thing about this race is you get to camp with the participants. Be ready to stay in tents for 2 nights. But it was fun meeting so many new friends, and not to mention swimming among the reefs nearby. I would come back again for this. <br />
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<br />yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-45576184624097379272011-10-11T02:52:00.000-07:002011-10-12T02:36:29.844-07:00KOM UCI 2011: Stuck at 2nd gear<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3vE4eBAGBtA/TpRC_ZZiAEI/AAAAAAAACpk/-8c_Oy3Cdkc/s1600/KOM-2011-start.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3vE4eBAGBtA/TpRC_ZZiAEI/AAAAAAAACpk/-8c_Oy3Cdkc/s400/KOM-2011-start.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662224288428720194" border="0" /></a><br />Lots of thoughts in my head...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NtgKQJFP90s/TpRCzDJO8-I/AAAAAAAACpc/OpuQYMD_4e4/s1600/KOM-2011-mid-chase0.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NtgKQJFP90s/TpRCzDJO8-I/AAAAAAAACpc/OpuQYMD_4e4/s400/KOM-2011-mid-chase0.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662224076296352738" border="0" /></a><br />2nd major ascent<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lSYURM-pPWc/TpRCyzdRBPI/AAAAAAAACpM/_lvnM8guL0E/s1600/KOM-2011-mid-chase1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lSYURM-pPWc/TpRCyzdRBPI/AAAAAAAACpM/_lvnM8guL0E/s400/KOM-2011-mid-chase1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662224072085406962" border="0" /></a><br />I didn't realise I was pulling so many...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LcucudHKNgA/TpRCyjknnWI/AAAAAAAACpA/uJlG2kyZSgg/s1600/KOM-2011-mid-chase2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LcucudHKNgA/TpRCyjknnWI/AAAAAAAACpA/uJlG2kyZSgg/s400/KOM-2011-mid-chase2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662224067821280610" border="0" /></a><br />Mark Cheong going for the attack, and I gave chase.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z5gvSLp2mTk/TpRDzt7PPkI/AAAAAAAACpw/OYirRF6d-48/s1600/KOM-2011-mid-chase.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z5gvSLp2mTk/TpRDzt7PPkI/AAAAAAAACpw/OYirRF6d-48/s400/KOM-2011-mid-chase.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662225187292003906" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iCproyLmS_A/TpREP2ga2KI/AAAAAAAACp8/DSKu1J-vyz8/s1600/KOM-2011-mid-chase3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iCproyLmS_A/TpREP2ga2KI/AAAAAAAACp8/DSKu1J-vyz8/s400/KOM-2011-mid-chase3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662225670631774370" border="0" /></a><br />Gear was stuck at 5th from bottom at RD.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CiSRRnVBNoA/TpRCyNNWPnI/AAAAAAAACo4/SWXKpe0DBQc/s1600/KOM-2011-finish.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CiSRRnVBNoA/TpRCyNNWPnI/AAAAAAAACo4/SWXKpe0DBQc/s400/KOM-2011-finish.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662224061818093170" border="0" /></a><br />Finished in 5th. With only one gear, nothing much I could do.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PcPLaEi-gwg/TpRCyI73G_I/AAAAAAAACoo/3p2V8FpGzwg/s1600/KOM-2011-result.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PcPLaEi-gwg/TpRCyI73G_I/AAAAAAAACoo/3p2V8FpGzwg/s400/KOM-2011-result.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662224060671007730" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RFAZ4YFTgqc/TpVfRJSaCmI/AAAAAAAACqw/5YYqGzkhKsE/s1600/cinelli-full.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RFAZ4YFTgqc/TpVfRJSaCmI/AAAAAAAACqw/5YYqGzkhKsE/s400/cinelli-full.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662536854643804770" border="0" /></a><br />Damn proud of this bike<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ahtcU5hS7pk/TpVfQ53teMI/AAAAAAAACqg/mmL6_ykFB-s/s1600/cinelli-cable-broke.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ahtcU5hS7pk/TpVfQ53teMI/AAAAAAAACqg/mmL6_ykFB-s/s400/cinelli-cable-broke.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662536850505300162" border="0" /></a><br />Cable snapped at the front shifter.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0JZlfEuhpYA/TpVfPzpmlII/AAAAAAAACqY/4BWODwjRHZI/s1600/cinelli-RD-stuck.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0JZlfEuhpYA/TpVfPzpmlII/AAAAAAAACqY/4BWODwjRHZI/s400/cinelli-RD-stuck.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662536831655646338" border="0" /></a><br />Gear stuck at 5th<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_MpQWwqoOt4/TpVfPgZwzVI/AAAAAAAACqI/hS-U1obN5ns/s1600/IMG_20110830_094646.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_MpQWwqoOt4/TpVfPgZwzVI/AAAAAAAACqI/hS-U1obN5ns/s400/IMG_20110830_094646.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662536826488933714" border="0" /></a><br />To my dad.<br /><br />With only 2 rides up to hulu langat the same week, I wasn't really hoping much from this ride.<br />I did, however, went to Edwin's shop to get racing tubulars, which cost quite a lot. But it was necessary, as the only pair of racing wheels light enough, was my Mavic Kysirium, and that was tubular.<br /><br />Mich's aunt was gracious to host us at her place in Ipoh.<br /><br />Race day. Morning came, and the rain was still pouring outside. I thought it would be cold, so I brought the 2XU compression top. Loaded the bike in the car, and we went off to the starting point.<br /><br />When I unloaded the bike off the boot, I was horrified to find out the gear cable to the rear derailleur had snapped. Raymond Ng and I was trying to figure out how to connect the braided steel wires, but we coudn't figure that out. Time was only 20 minutes to the start. So he suggested I go find Kenny to see if he could fix it.<br /><br />I quickly pumped up the tires, then cycled to the arch. Stopped to ask a guy at the van nearby if he knows anyone who could fix that. Answer was negative. Found Kenny, and he suggested that the high gear screw be adjusted to move the chain up. With a screwdriver, I managed to set it higher. Adzim helped took off the broken wiring.<br /><br />At that point, I didn't even know if I could ride this. If it's flats, it might be ok, but we are riding up to almost 1500 meters, with some steep climbs. I actually had thought this ride is gone. I stood there, waiting for the marshalls, to let us go, and thinking if the ride was even possible. Safety issue came to mind firstly. It's just a ride, and there's no point continuing if there's<br />probable risk I could harm myself & others. As I stood there listening to the fireman, reading the prayer for our safety, I prayed earnestly.<br /><br />Then they let us off. 5km to the flagoff. I tried riding as cautiously as possible, still trying to feel, if I could still ride this semi-fixie bike. Only the front derailleur is working. That's all I could play with.<br /><br />After the flag off, the speed picked up, and we were soon heading towards the first major climb. I've actually cycled this route twice before. So, I roughly know the major points of attack. The first steep climb is a 2km, bukit hantu kind of gradient. Anticipating an attack,<br />I moved my way leftwards and surged ahead. I looked back. No one followed. Odd. So, I kept pedalling. Surprisingly, I could put the power instead of cadence. I wasn't dying so I just kept pedalling until the flats alone, in front. Saw Lydia Yeow, and was quite happy to see her there.<br /><br />I thought at least, I won this first major climb. But I will be swamped by the riders soon. Or so I thought. I looked back and the peloton is still hanging in one bunch behind. Funny. No one wants to reel me in. I slowed down a little, to join them. There's no point riding this fast,<br />at this speed. So I stayed there for some time.<br /><br />Then we encounter another steep slope, that marks the beginning of some very winding & relatively steep hills. There were some attacks by others, but<br />the momentum didn't sustain. The peloton managed to reel them in.<br /><br />With only 2 gears, I needed a different strategy. I know I wouldn't be able to follow their attack, so I will have to attack early, and be ahead, rather than staying in a group.<br /><br />Then we passed the bridge, and it was a smoother climb uphill.<br /><br />I stood up, snapped the pedals, and sprint ahead, hoping someone would follow. None did. So, I continue riding in front, and was feeling quite comfortable, almost at home. Used to riding solo, I preferred that to a group. My mind wasn't with the ride. My father has passed away suddenly<br />last week tuesday. Watching him with all the life supporting machine hooking up, with the heart rate monitor kept on blinking, was really heart breaking to watch. For someone who wasn't active & he was a bit obese, his high heart rate at 190 & 180 was just incomprehensible.<br />I had ran uphills for training and 170 feels like dying.<br /><br />The peloton came by again. Somehow everyone was riding safely. I urgently need to pushed to pace. I attacked again, signalling to Kelvin Tan, riding a blue Trek, wearing the P2K jersey to follow me. He did. We went off in front, and did some work together. I chuckled when he said "This is your day Steve". How do you ride a race using only this? He did warned me that's it's only 30km, and there's still some distance to go.<br /><br />Then the peloton reeled us back again. This time, a rider wearing orange riding an Orbea, attacked. I stood up, and gave chase. He went at a furious speed, and drafted behind a support motorcycle carrying 2 extra wheels. Was that legal? Anyway, I managed to reel him back,<br />and his words were "Kat depan ada 6 lagi rider.(In front there's 6 more riders)". That's odd, I thought we are the only ones in front.<br /><br />I remember another attack by Mark Cheong, riding an awesome Look bike. I gave chase as well.<br /><br />Finally the whole group decided to attack. I tried to follow, but with only 1 light gear, I couldn't do much. I was left behind and all I could<br />do was watch the whole peloton moved past, as they snaked up the hills. Mark had an issue with his chain, and he stopped. I just kept on pedaling.<br /><br />After awhile, I looked back at my meter, and it's 37km. I was still behind. I realised if I don't chase the front pack, I will lose them once they hit the flats after 44km. So, I tried to go faster, and managed to catch up with the group after the wooden hut at the right side of the road.<br /><br />Then I went all out on attack again. I wanted to get to the flats first. It was kind of rolling, and the speed was intoxicating. As I entered the Welcome to Cameron huge words cliff, I saw Shahrin Amir, wearing a Malaysia white jersey, riding impressively on a MTB. Wow, could this guy win this whole race?<br /><br />As we reached the flats, he let me move to the front, and urged me to go faster. I had only one high gear, and that's all I could go, and it was<br />60kmh. Then the rest of the front pack attacked again, this time leaving me a bit far off.<br /><br />As we reached the second last climb, they slowed down. I looked at my meter ant it was 51km plus. Not much distance left.<br />I went for an attack again, and surged back to the front. This is now all out. I just hope they won't catch up with me.<br /><br />With one last climb to go, the marshal on the bike said there's only 800m left. Could I really win this? We finally reached the last turn up the hill,<br />and that's when everyone attacks. With only 1 gear, I could do nothing. I tried my best to follow. With less than 100m left, it's time to die.<br />I pedaled furiously and managed to fend off some guys. When I passed the finishing, I still have something in the tank. I still could breath<br />easily, and it was kind of frustrating to not be able to attack with the right gear. I got 5th placing.<br /><br />Looking back, it was a good race. I was able to chase some guys, and lead, despite using one gear. I had wanted to ride this for my dad.<br />He struggled after his watch business went sour, and we all in the family did. Despite all this, he finally managed to set up his beloved<br />business again during his last 5 years. He worked until the last day he passed on. I will always remember him as a watch repairer, which one<br />has to have lots of patience tinkering minute dials & screws.<br /><br />I started this ride with the thought:<br /><br />"Shit, I can't ride this race." to<br /><br />"Maybe, I will just ride for fun." to<br /><br />"Maybe, if I attack, I could win this."<br /><br />This ride will be my most memorable one.yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-28266359704322391792011-10-11T02:41:00.000-07:002011-10-11T02:52:23.000-07:00Siemens run: Hazy skies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l3SDTRrM3Ns/TpQRzu-Sr0I/AAAAAAAACoc/0Utrhw4WBPg/s1600/siemens-yipwt.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l3SDTRrM3Ns/TpQRzu-Sr0I/AAAAAAAACoc/0Utrhw4WBPg/s400/siemens-yipwt.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662170211991859010" border="0" /></a><br />My sis & I went for this run. We arrived early by 30 minutes. By then, they have opened the gantry for runners to go in. So we quickly went to fill the front slots. If you were to gun for position, being in front will be advantageous.<br /><br />From the start, Peter, with this tall built was sprinting out. I passed the usual suspects early in the beginning. Then I noticed Mark Williams, with shoulders hunched ran past me. He really look like hammering it. I just stuck to my own pace.<br /><br />All of a sudden, a kenyan ran past at such high speed, relatively, I thought he was sprinting and I was just walking. But the reality was, I was putting my maximum speed allowed. That was an eye opener.<br /><br />Around half way point, my shoelace came off, and I spent a few secs tying them up. It proved futile as it came off anyway. Good thing was I tied a first dead knot, so that wouldn't be a problem.<br /><br />I was trailing this indian veteran. Try as much as I can, I was never able to beat him, even to the end. His running style seem so effortless, but yet was able to keep me at bay.<br /><br />I ended up at 10th position. The top 4 were kenyans, and Ahmad Lamchannak, a Moroccan, who works here, was in 9th. My sister however missed the prize at 23th.<br /><br />The weather was hazy, and I didn't really enjoyed the run. Somehow the gloomy skies, signifies an uneasiness that I would only found out later that night.yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-42196000090497614632011-09-19T19:34:00.001-07:002011-09-19T19:49:55.928-07:00KLIUC Unity Run 2011: Half Asleep<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iiTPm5WJfls/Tnf_NREsz9I/AAAAAAAACoU/SSWRlJoZhEg/s1600/kliuc-group-photo.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iiTPm5WJfls/Tnf_NREsz9I/AAAAAAAACoU/SSWRlJoZhEg/s400/kliuc-group-photo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654268460573446098" border="0" /></a><br />Michelle, my sis, and my youngest brother.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qeYbP6XkEUo/Tnf_NKru71I/AAAAAAAACoM/DKTo-2vlpQU/s1600/kliuc-finishing.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qeYbP6XkEUo/Tnf_NKru71I/AAAAAAAACoM/DKTo-2vlpQU/s400/kliuc-finishing.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654268458858114898" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This run, wasn't ran in the best of mind. I had been working since yesterday on some technical issues with some lack of sleep, and that was right after BJCC ride to Bentong 110km in race mode. Now just a bit on the cycling ride. Leonard Lim is one tough nut to crack. It was either me chasing him, or he was hanging on my back. And all the way up Genting Sempah. And we aren't riding in leisure mode. On the way back up to Sempah, it's the same scenario. Regardless of uneven tarmac, heat, wind, it was race mode.<br /><br />So, I found myself on the starting line, quite not in the mind to race. My sister is joining as well in the B category. They let us off at first for the A, B, C category.<br /><br />As usual, hordes of sprinters in the first few hundred meters. Noticeably I saw a malay chap (Syahidan) in yellow Adidas jersey at the front. Then 2 indian guys went off with him. An african dude was hanging with them, but he soon dropped off.<br /><br />The route wasn't flat all the way. There's some hilly sections as well. I was just trying to stave off the back guys. It was quite a fast pace.<br /><br />I only started to 'wake' up after like 5km. Then at the last 3km, the winner of C (junior vet), passed me as we entered the college. I tried chasing him, but never did pass him until the end.<br /><br />Time at the finish was 38:05 in 4th position. Kind of happy, given the circumstances. My sis got 9th, which is not bad. She hardly sweat, so I told her to run faster next time.yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-37841747242849163652011-09-14T18:41:00.000-07:002011-09-14T19:02:23.290-07:00Salomon X-trail: Fun in the mud<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GY2J3vClFOY/TnFcPaMEW2I/AAAAAAAACoE/VMaaTVjHxog/s1600/salomon-x-trail-2011-running0.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GY2J3vClFOY/TnFcPaMEW2I/AAAAAAAACoE/VMaaTVjHxog/s400/salomon-x-trail-2011-running0.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652400427124415330" border="0" /></a><br />Chasing Jasni...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_RshXDIuYzc/TnFcPV-ZB3I/AAAAAAAACn8/m8_6LK0yjLI/s1600/salomon-x-trail-2011-running.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_RshXDIuYzc/TnFcPV-ZB3I/AAAAAAAACn8/m8_6LK0yjLI/s400/salomon-x-trail-2011-running.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652400425993308018" border="0" /></a><br />The last downhill section...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c2tQNbbD12A/TnFcPK7cOuI/AAAAAAAACn0/RxB7M5B5FNQ/s1600/salomon-x-trail-2011-finishing.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c2tQNbbD12A/TnFcPK7cOuI/AAAAAAAACn0/RxB7M5B5FNQ/s400/salomon-x-trail-2011-finishing.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652400423028144866" border="0" /></a><br />Sprinting for the finish...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O0H5cdk-Brc/TnFcO4R5HLI/AAAAAAAACns/O0Q_ZndEHSs/s1600/salomon-x-trail-2011-prize-giving.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O0H5cdk-Brc/TnFcO4R5HLI/AAAAAAAACns/O0Q_ZndEHSs/s400/salomon-x-trail-2011-prize-giving.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652400418022038706" border="0" /></a><br />I think they gave us too much stuff...<br /><br />This would be the first race after ramadhan. I had been doing training during fasting, but just for maintenance, rather than pushing the body. Training after break of fast, is very tough, so I opted in the morning instead. Hydration is a problem, so I figured out if I over hydrate, I could go through the rest of the day.<br /><br />As for this race, I didn't thought it would be rather technical. So I didn't opt for trail shoes. Instead I used my usual NB racer.<br /><br />At the starting line, I looked down at my chest, and my heart was beating too hard. Maybe a little nervous. The gun went off, and Jasni raced to the front. I followed suit. He wasn't going too fast at the beginning, but once out of the stadium into the main road, he attacked.<br /><br />I tried to follow. The first obstacle was the puddle of mud water. I didn't want to go in, but Jasni just zoomed it through. Oh well then...<br /><br />Certain sections were puddled from yesterday's rain, and slippery. At times I find that I had to balance before proceeding for the next step. Jasni was slowly slipping away, and then came Don Khor.<br /><br />We ran side by side for most of the trails. Then at one section of hills, he raced uphill, left me, but then turned right. He followed a person (actually a lady going in the wrong direction). At that point I had doubts, so I slowed down, looked back & forth.<br /><br />When he did finally made a u-turn, I turned back, yelled at the ladies runners to turn. I could hear Don spewing expletives at the marshall. But there was not a time to waste. I readjusted my mind instead on figuring out if some damage had been done. Actually there was. Dino was ahead by 10 meters, so I quickly chased him down.<br /><br />We went downhill at an atrocious speed. But he was breathing heavily, and I figured out I still have the final card. Once the tarmac section came, I knew I could outrun him.<br /><br />Finished in 44m24sec for 10km in 2nd placing. I think the getting lost part cost 1 minute.<br /><br />---<br /><br />It was a good race organised. The route is pretty scenic. The part I remember was a dark horse ran alongside us, when it saw we were running.yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-21849424653824682822011-08-07T20:42:00.000-07:002011-08-07T21:12:04.756-07:00Shape Run Pirate<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kMf04GC6zV4/Tj9hnAQsJ0I/AAAAAAAACm0/k05ea87vReU/s1600/pirate-shape-run-2011.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kMf04GC6zV4/Tj9hnAQsJ0I/AAAAAAAACm0/k05ea87vReU/s400/pirate-shape-run-2011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638332581203945282" border="0" /></a><br />Now, I have no idea about this run, until a friend told me. I guess with the fasting month nearing, I thought this could be the last event (PD tri is supposed to be the last..).<br /><br />The pre-race atmosphere was happening with many booths & runners all around waiting for the start. "Skins" was there as well. Thought of getting one but then I couldn't find any need for it.<br /><br />Before the start, the full 12.3km runners had to bundle up before the line. The MCs was trying their best to raise the atmosphere to party level, but I guess the runners aren't that interested. I stood a few meters ahead of the start line, waiting. Since PD, I haven't had any runs, except hills. And that morning, I cycled the usual Hulu Langat in high intensity going uphills. I have no idea how would I fare in this race.<br /><br />The gun went off, and hordes of runners were let loose. I waited for a few moments before joining the crowd. For the first few km, I was moving up. Saw the elites as usual bunched up in front. Then I saw Don Khor slightly behind. Now Don's a really fast runner. Despite his age of 50+, most of us had problem keeping up with him in races, myself included. He'll start a bit slow, but would be able to maintain a negative split at the end.<br /><br />I haven't been able to beat him. So, my objective then, was to keep as close as possible.<br /><br />I trailed him for some time, but found myself comfortable going faster, so I went off. But I know he won't be far behind. I set my guns on the guys in front. One thing about running racing at the top group is, everyone is bloody fast. So you can't go all out. That would be suicidal. I kept a constant but high intensity pace without killing myself, yet.<br /><br />The only guy I caught up with was Casey, and that was because he walked abit. Then he ran again, and we ran together. I looked back and sure enough Don was there with 2 other guys not far.<br /><br />I decided to slow down to join them. We ran together until Casey and the 2 other guys shoot off. But I decided to just run with Don. So we ran almost together until the last 3km heading back, then I decided to go for it. Now it was all guns ablaze. The 2 guys in front were still far ahead, and I guess I won't be able to better them. Now it's just keeping Don at bay.<br /><br />There was one last hill up, and then the final turn right into the finishing. I looked back. He was 50 meters back, so I knew I finally beat him. I think Tey, who taking photos, was a bit skeptical caused I wasn't wearing any bib. Anyway, I didn't go into the finishing line as the marshall diverted.<br /><br />Finished in 49min for 12.3km. I think it's 48ish, but I'll just put up 49 for some margins. I could have won 8th in mens open.<br /><br />Anyway, it's been one of the best 'pirate' race I have been. Couldn't ask for more.yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-70420423085149222052011-07-27T18:50:00.000-07:002011-07-27T19:26:16.673-07:00Port Dickson Triathlon 2011<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TNFEk-qBO98/TjDIhWMRo-I/AAAAAAAACms/jY8sQzNDjXo/s1600/port-dickson-triathlon-2011-swim.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TNFEk-qBO98/TjDIhWMRo-I/AAAAAAAACms/jY8sQzNDjXo/s400/port-dickson-triathlon-2011-swim.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634223609058796514" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZosobarEgQs/TjDIhe_MZSI/AAAAAAAACmk/Lu5aKVeIZsk/s1600/port-dickson-triathlon-2011-bike.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZosobarEgQs/TjDIhe_MZSI/AAAAAAAACmk/Lu5aKVeIZsk/s400/port-dickson-triathlon-2011-bike.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634223611419845922" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c5dUPoD-TJM/TjDIhKtI20I/AAAAAAAACmc/5K7iB_lnQ0w/s1600/port-dickson-triathlon-2011-run.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c5dUPoD-TJM/TjDIhKtI20I/AAAAAAAACmc/5K7iB_lnQ0w/s400/port-dickson-triathlon-2011-run.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634223605975407426" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Port Dickson triathlon is one of those events that you must do. It's near to KL, and most importantly, hordes of athletes will be there.<br /><br />As much for preparation, it's really not that much that I had hoped for. For swimming, I think I've gained ground. Problem was, I don't wear a watch in the water these days, so I have no idea how fast I was going. Reassuringly, I could pace with the regulars in the pool. Bike, I've done a lot of distance, but for tri position, it would just be enough. Running, I don't have much doubt. I could still put on the speed if needed.<br /><br />Another different approach to training these days, is to put more emphasis on cardio intensity. I think it does pays off. I've been doing times that I thought was impossible years back. I did a test run at bkt aman, and did the whole thing in record time 1:21. The prior best time was 1:33.<br /><br />---<br />Race Day:<br />Swim: We had to run like 50 meters into the water as it's knee deep, before we can swim. I did push but tried to stay within a comfortable range. As long as I could feel I am moving fast enough that's ok. On the way back, I had to stand up, wade through the water, then only start running back to transition.<br /><br />I heard Shahrom & Hafiz Wong names being mentioned by the MC. I couldn't be too far off then. Now, problem was I was sitting on the floor trying to get socks on. Yes, I am still not comfortable with no socks. So that took some seconds.<br /><br />Hooped onto the bike and it was time to test the new Transition bike. The early parts of the bike, I was passing everyone. I was trying to see who could make a good drafting team. The odd feeling was, where is everyone?<br /><br />After turning right from the traffics after 5km, it's another 15km to the u-turn. I did work with one guy in blue, for some time, but then he dropped off after some time. After the u-turn, I did managed to catch another dude in powerbar bib 1101. He was pretty strong, so both of us took turns to race back to the finishing. Noticed big packs of peloton was coming in the other direction.<br /><br />Now the bike was pretty fast. It's not that light with tri-spokes, but when you get it going, it does go.<br /><br />Run: Back into transition, put on the shoes, and started to run. I noticed Allan Lee just beside on the start. The first few hundred meters wasn't well adjusted, as usual. I kept a high cadence and that did the work. But weird thing is, I wasn't really pushing it, or don't feel like pushing it. I could pass most of the guys, except on the way back after the u-turn, one guy in the younger age group ran quite fast ahead. Oddly, I didn't feel like chasing. But I did kept a fast pace, but not into the bonking zone.<br /><br />Came back with the clock 2:12. Then I remembered it's minus 5, so that makes it 2:07.<br /><br /><br />Anyway, that time wasn't good enough to be in the top 10 age grouper. Position is 12th in 30-39 mens. So I was just happy I did a good time.<br /><br />---<br /><br />Summary: Training on intensity has paid off. I could push harder & longer. But one thing that irks me, was taking too much time on the bike trying to work with other guys. That fast & slow pace really did disturb the rhythm. Maybe I should have just sit in aero, and gone all out. That could have saved more time.<br /><br />I didn't pushed on the run too much. Maybe I was feeling too comfortable. Another reason was there wasn't anyone in front I could see in my age group. I think I should have raced harder instead of being happy with running just fast.<br /><br />Swim, being the most technical of all, remains a hard discipline to master. Will need to focus harder on how to swim 1.5k fast.yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-3043663205829365022011-06-20T01:16:00.000-07:002011-06-20T02:37:05.981-07:00Ultra Ride: KL-Gohtong-Fraser Peak-Tapah-Brinchang<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_tS1Zs1DzaM/Tf8Ur1duD5I/AAAAAAAACmQ/xoqKAMF_FxE/s1600/3peaks.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 356px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_tS1Zs1DzaM/Tf8Ur1duD5I/AAAAAAAACmQ/xoqKAMF_FxE/s400/3peaks.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620233603300331410" /></a><div>Cameron is very far...<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-joJ9jClvdQI/Tf8TKsVqM9I/AAAAAAAACmI/JiMnvzeknM0/s1600/IMAG0976.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-joJ9jClvdQI/Tf8TKsVqM9I/AAAAAAAACmI/JiMnvzeknM0/s400/IMAG0976.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620231934403294162" /></a><div>Route up Fraser<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A3ryh61e6GI/Tf8TKiGyytI/AAAAAAAACmA/GaO9aPZgdmw/s1600/IMAG0978.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A3ryh61e6GI/Tf8TKiGyytI/AAAAAAAACmA/GaO9aPZgdmw/s400/IMAG0978.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620231931656587986" /></a></div><div>The bike looks pretty here...<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wapTeav6Y34/Tf8TJnVbStI/AAAAAAAACl4/JmIzVgXl2es/s1600/IMAG0979.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wapTeav6Y34/Tf8TJnVbStI/AAAAAAAACl4/JmIzVgXl2es/s400/IMAG0979.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620231915880270546" /></a></div><div>Descending from Fraser Peak<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5-kW6kcpQXc/Tf8TJUwoDdI/AAAAAAAAClw/idcJ2MhzD-Q/s1600/IMAG0980.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5-kW6kcpQXc/Tf8TJUwoDdI/AAAAAAAAClw/idcJ2MhzD-Q/s400/IMAG0980.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620231910894079442" /></a></div><div>It's pretty dangerous...route towards Gap<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CuySjwyJrYw/Tf8TJKLmSdI/AAAAAAAAClo/2gPrpQ73QYY/s1600/IMAG0981.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CuySjwyJrYw/Tf8TJKLmSdI/AAAAAAAAClo/2gPrpQ73QYY/s400/IMAG0981.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620231908054419922" /></a><br /><div>Lata Iskandar...</div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jWlvwL3Gdyc/Tf8SDvUyoHI/AAAAAAAAClg/sv9akm6Lf7w/s1600/IMAG0982.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jWlvwL3Gdyc/Tf8SDvUyoHI/AAAAAAAAClg/sv9akm6Lf7w/s400/IMAG0982.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620230715434246258" /></a></div><div>Brinchang!<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xg72ZIPScU/Tf8SDFDHJiI/AAAAAAAAClY/6nf4aEBBdxI/s1600/IMAG0983.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xg72ZIPScU/Tf8SDFDHJiI/AAAAAAAAClY/6nf4aEBBdxI/s400/IMAG0983.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620230704085804578" /></a></div><div>The bike has to rest too...<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xd8MsfMBL5s/Tf8SCvldTQI/AAAAAAAAClQ/IpDDIsgUHsU/s1600/IMAG0984.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xd8MsfMBL5s/Tf8SCvldTQI/AAAAAAAAClQ/IpDDIsgUHsU/s400/IMAG0984.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620230698324282626" /></a></div><div>It's time to go home..<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ERwDRwJ1_BU/Tf8SCDAEvMI/AAAAAAAAClI/im-daqNs1aU/s1600/IMAG0985.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ERwDRwJ1_BU/Tf8SCDAEvMI/AAAAAAAAClI/im-daqNs1aU/s400/IMAG0985.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620230686356323522" /></a></div><div>Route from Ringlet downwards...pretty scenic...<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J3sGp14sfCE/Tf8SBkDFkPI/AAAAAAAAClA/b1Q-YUZJ8VA/s1600/IMAG0986.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J3sGp14sfCE/Tf8SBkDFkPI/AAAAAAAAClA/b1Q-YUZJ8VA/s400/IMAG0986.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620230678047461618" /></a><br /><i><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div>"What's the most resilient parasite? An idea. A single idea from the human mind can build cities. An idea can transform the world and rewrite all the rules. Which is why I have to steal it."...Inception</i><div><br /></div><div>The idea was to climb all 3 peaks Genting, Fraser & Cameron Highlands in one day. But due to the restricted access up Genting, I had to be happy with just climbing up Gohtong. Still, the idea is too big to fit into the daylights of a single day. No matter how you put it, you'll have to ride parts of it, either early in the morning or after the sun sets.</div><div><br /></div><div>Part of the earlier problem was there's only odd hours traffic up Fraser Peak, and even hours coming down. That adds to the time needed to finish the whole thing. Then, as I found out last week, the other route down from Fraser peak has reopened, and thus one is able to go up anytime.</div><div><br /></div><div>In my earlier calculations, one would need to start at 4am from KL. Since the Genting peak is a pass, and Fraser situation has ease, I thought starting just around near 6am from home, with some night climbs up Cameron, would be doable.</div><div><br /></div><div>---</div><div>I started at 5:53am, sped along MRR2 highway heading nortwards into gombak, reached HOA just shy of one hour, then started the climb up Sempah as the morning rays lighted up the sky. </div><div>Then it was up Gohtong, rest & eat, and then it was going downhill towards Batang Kali, KKB.</div><div><br /></div><div>At KKB, I refilled the front bottle, as I knew this would be at least 1hr 45 minutes up to Gap. It's a good 30km climb, which is kinda monotonous, though scenic. Stopped by for nasi lemak and drinks at Gap. A bunch of MTBers were also there. There was something strange about their group name. It's called "Strange" MTBers from Rawang, if I can recall correctly. </div><div><br /></div><div>I didn't stopped long. Then I proceeded to do the final 8km climb up Fraser peak, which wasn't too hard. But the downhill part was pretty dangerous. With sharp turns and certain sections strewn with pebbles, I had to be extra careful. Once as I ascended up the slope, I switched a few gears and the chain fell off. The bike stalled. There wasn't anything I could do except embrace for impact. Luckily nothing serious. I was more concerned about bike damage, which turned out ok.</div><div><br /></div><div>After Gap, it was speeding towards KKB, then joining the main road, heading northwards towards Tapah. My front rim was giving me problems again. There's an occasional screeching sound from the hub. I swear after this I'll get a fulcrum zero with ceramic bearings.</div><div><br /></div><div>Up till now, my meter was 164km. I knew Tapah is around 90km, The problem with this route is, Cameron is darn far. From Tapah, it's another 64km up Brinchang. That means half of the difficulty has just started. </div><div><br /></div><div>From now on, it's a whole new guessing game. I've done Gohtong & Fraser, so there's not much doubt, but timing. The time is now 1:50pm</div><div><br /></div><div>The ride towards Tapah was pretty warm & windy. Stopped a few times for refill. I had wanted to reached Tapah at 5pm. Instead I only reached 5:35pm. The cyclometer is now at 252km</div><div><br /></div><div>As I head rightwards towards the route up Cameron, I knew this would take more than 4 hours. I've done this route once, and it took exactly 4 hours up Brinchang. Climbing after such a long distance, plus with a bag pack, would only mean more time.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was tired, fatigue. My butt is in pain. And my speed ain't that fast. All I knew is I had to keep on pedalling. The last real meal I had was nasi lemak at Gap. After 20km, I stopped by Lata Iskandar, which is a waterfall tourist area, for iced milo & a cereal bar. </div><div><br /></div><div>Time was running out. I hopped onto the bike again, and continued. By 7:30pm, with 15km left up Ringlet, climbing up this route would need to be done in the dark. There's no street lamps at this area.</div><div><br /></div><div>It didn't get totally dark until 7:50pm. I turned on the front LED light. By then I couldn't read the cyclometer, and I didn't know how far was left. A bat struck me once, which is odd considering that they have sonar capabilities, and I was such a big target. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was now a question "Are we there yet?" over & over again. The route has lots of turns, and uneven. Once in awhile cars passed by, providing ample lighting. I had to be extra careful at where to put the front wheel. I didn't want to get the tyre puncture at this point.</div><div><br /></div><div>All around is darkness with silhouettes of trees & the night sky. It's not a place to be cycling. But I had no choice. When you have no choice, you take the only option, and keep on pedaling.</div><div><br /></div><div>The LED light wasn't getting dimmer. Must be the darn batteries. Finally I saw orange light from streetlamps that goes into Ringlet. Yes, I finally reached the big strawberry at Ringlet, and out of this darkness. It's now 8:30pm.</div><div><br /></div><div>I stopped for food at Ringlet, with mee that taste so bland, I thought it's uneatable. I was so tired I could have plonked my face into the plate. I knew I had to eat, as there's another 15km up Brinchang.</div><div><br /></div><div>I've done this part in the dark before, so I knew it's doable. Restarted at 9pm. It was chillingly cold. I pedalled just because I wanted to get the heat up. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was now a matter of calculating the KM left. After Tanah Rata, there's another 2km of climb, and that's it. </div><div><br /></div><div>When I reached Brinchang at 10:10pm, I couldn't decide what to feel. It had took months of training & work, and it's finally done. There was doubts, and now that's erased. I finally got the idea off my head, so now I could go on with my life.</div><div><br /></div><div>Although I didn't went up Genting Peak, this is still a very tough ride. But at least, it could give some future framework on how all 3 peaks can be achieved in one day. </div><div><br /></div><div>Surprisingly, I didn't feel too bonked like the last ride from KL. Checked into Brinchang Hotel. I still have to cycle back to KL the next day. Distance is 313km.</div><div><br /></div><div>---</div><div>Ride back KL was uneventful. Pretty hot, some rain at KKB. Took longer, but that's expected after such a ride prior. Distance is 218.5km, reached home at 8pm plus.</div><div><br /></div><div>---</div><div>Some thoughts. It would be nice to get a support car the next time. I had butt pain, due to the bag. Cringed every time I had to go over bumps. </div><div><br /></div><div>Time taken for the route is 16hr 20minutes from KL. This is the longest ride time I have done in a single day. Rough estimate for total distance climbing is 125km:</div><div><br /></div><div>HOA-Gohtong: 25km</div><div>KKB-Fraser Peak: 40km </div><div>Tapah-Brinchang: 65km</div><div><br /></div><div>The idea is now no longer an idea. It's real.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-38430638020107953252011-06-19T21:50:00.000-07:002011-06-19T21:55:28.727-07:00Putrajaya Ekiden Relay<div>Our team:</div><div><br /></div><div>1) Jason Loh</div><div>2) Ronnie See</div><div>3) Steven Yip</div><div>4) Michele tan</div><div>5) Chen</div><div><br /></div><div>As you see, we aren't the fastest group. I had a great time chasing Wong Kei Ming as he slowed down after half way point.</div><div>That brought us to 3rd position. Then Michele Tan (very fast girl) put us at 2nd, but in the end we ended 3rd overall.</div><div><br /></div><div>Not bad, considering we're eyeing top 5 position.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now, oddly, I missed the prize giving ceremony, so basically no pictures. </div>yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-84443056586611905642011-06-13T06:18:00.001-07:002011-06-13T06:39:00.976-07:00The Devil II Reincarnated<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0rMJyzT7_M/TfYSdZfnMfI/AAAAAAAACk4/5wnfW_TM270/s1600/specialized-transition-seat.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0rMJyzT7_M/TfYSdZfnMfI/AAAAAAAACk4/5wnfW_TM270/s400/specialized-transition-seat.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617697881460257266" /></a><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0rMJyzT7_M/TfYSdZfnMfI/AAAAAAAACk4/5wnfW_TM270/s1600/specialized-transition-seat.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Sexiest seat ever...<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cf7dC81QbRE/TfYSdKypprI/AAAAAAAACkw/AmufyP_qA7c/s1600/specialized-transition-comp.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cf7dC81QbRE/TfYSdKypprI/AAAAAAAACkw/AmufyP_qA7c/s400/specialized-transition-comp.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617697877513578162" /></a></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cf7dC81QbRE/TfYSdKypprI/AAAAAAAACkw/AmufyP_qA7c/s1600/specialized-transition-comp.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kyFansRu0vA/TfYScqTne4I/AAAAAAAACko/rF94ZUFZeeE/s1600/specialized-transition-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kyFansRu0vA/TfYScqTne4I/AAAAAAAACko/rF94ZUFZeeE/s400/specialized-transition-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617697868793478018" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kyFansRu0vA/TfYScqTne4I/AAAAAAAACko/rF94ZUFZeeE/s1600/specialized-transition-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br />For the past few months I've been scouting for a new TT bike. I had been riding the Argon 18 Mercury for the past 3 years, and the front bar is having some corrosion. So I guess it's time to break the bank for a new bike, or the frame will accidentally break? (Actually very unlikely, but that's just some excuse).<div><br /></div><div>I finally settled for the Specialized Transition. Now, it's actually not the most aero bike, but it looks gorgeous with aerofoil design in almost every part of the geometry. I bought the standard complete package, and then replaced the seat with the sexiest one I could find, red tape for the default white tap, and added an aero bottlecage. </div><div><br /></div><div>Daniel helped with some tips on the bike fitting, did the final assembly, and the result was promising.</div><div><br /></div><div>I've done 2 rides. The first was in Putrajaya, and the second using the usual hulu langat route. I noticed climbing is a bit sluggish, but perhaps that's because the back wheels is placed too near to the frame. It has ajustable back wheel position, which is great as sometimes you might have larger tyres. </div><div><br /></div><div>But on the flats & downhill, it's totally a different riding experience. </div><div><br /></div><div>On the flats, with the trispokes, cruising at 40kmh was made easier.</div><div><br /></div><div>It goes downhill so silent as if you're in stealth mode. And handling is pretty stable, so assured, that there's total confidence in cornering.</div><div><br /></div><div>But, the bike is not everything, and one still has to train. Only thing if I ride too slow, then style would be a consolation.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-36211303732205774092011-06-07T06:34:00.000-07:002011-06-07T07:05:47.764-07:00Double Gohtong & Fraser Gap<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RA9JWZ3FATc/Te4vjICA-qI/AAAAAAAACkg/N6SgKyeQI-A/s1600/IMAG0924.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RA9JWZ3FATc/Te4vjICA-qI/AAAAAAAACkg/N6SgKyeQI-A/s400/IMAG0924.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615478065875450530" /></a><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RA9JWZ3FATc/Te4vjICA-qI/AAAAAAAACkg/N6SgKyeQI-A/s1600/IMAG0924.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>At Gohtong...<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RdQbANM4_Ew/Te4viZJtrzI/AAAAAAAACkY/EufaofpNM6Q/s1600/IMAG0925.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RdQbANM4_Ew/Te4viZJtrzI/AAAAAAAACkY/EufaofpNM6Q/s400/IMAG0925.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615478053291274034" /></a></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RdQbANM4_Ew/Te4viZJtrzI/AAAAAAAACkY/EufaofpNM6Q/s1600/IMAG0925.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xth4FGVgS7I/Te4vhidYO3I/AAAAAAAACkQ/1aQff1QxANs/s1600/IMAG0926.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xth4FGVgS7I/Te4vhidYO3I/AAAAAAAACkQ/1aQff1QxANs/s400/IMAG0926.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615478038609804146" /></a></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xth4FGVgS7I/Te4vhidYO3I/AAAAAAAACkQ/1aQff1QxANs/s1600/IMAG0926.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Superbikes at the Gap<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lW9rjg6lavY/Te4vg6bq3FI/AAAAAAAACkI/J_Zhk2hqRYk/s1600/IMAG0928.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lW9rjg6lavY/Te4vg6bq3FI/AAAAAAAACkI/J_Zhk2hqRYk/s400/IMAG0928.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615478027865218130" /></a></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lW9rjg6lavY/Te4vg6bq3FI/AAAAAAAACkI/J_Zhk2hqRYk/s1600/IMAG0928.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Lepaking at Fraser Gap<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXUhW9c0cBA/Te4vgFgPpaI/AAAAAAAACkA/eSgAVesIdZA/s1600/IMAG0929.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXUhW9c0cBA/Te4vgFgPpaI/AAAAAAAACkA/eSgAVesIdZA/s400/IMAG0929.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615478013657327010" /></a></div><div>At Gohtong, 2nd time..</div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xXUhW9c0cBA/Te4vgFgPpaI/AAAAAAAACkA/eSgAVesIdZA/s1600/IMAG0929.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br />Suddenly I got this idea of climbing Gohtong twice, with fraser gap to top that up. Now climbing from HOA gombak to Gohtong is really hard, but to climb from Batang Kali a second time, is something unknown, nor have I heard anyone doing it. Could it be done? Or would I puke on the second climb. <div><br /></div><div>On the way up Gohtong, I met with Suhaimi Amy and his gang. They were stopping just after the first checkpoint from Sempah. At first we were together, but somehow he had went down to check on his friends. </div><div><br /></div><div>Downhill gohtong to batang kali is dangerous but fun. Just remember to grab the brakes tightly, but not all the time. You don't want your rims overheating, which might burst the tyres. I had this once happened after descending from Genting peak, but luckily it happened when I was near HOA car park.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then it was a boring, monotonous climb up Fraser Gap. I think the only fun I had was counting the decreasing kilometers on the cyclometer. At gap, met with 3 singaporeans who had cycled from Batang Kali. </div><div><br /></div><div>I didn't plan to go up peak, so I headed straight down KKB, took a refill at Batang Kali, and then boom, it rained cats n dogs. Have to wait another 30 minutes before I could climb up Gohtong.</div><div><br /></div><div>I wasn't worried on timing as there's ample time. As usual, climbing up this route, is mentally & physically draining. All climbs and climbs for a few km straight. The wet road made it easier, compared to if the sun was shining at your back.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally I reached Gohtong, which I so happily concluded that it's not impossible to climb it twice.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then it's all the way back HOA. </div><div><br /></div><div>I tried to roughly calculate the total ascent, and it should be around close to 2500m of climb. The view has been fantastic though, which is why I like climbing hills. The higher you get, the better the view, with sweeping valleys, and majestic mountains to accompany you.</div><div><br /></div><div>Distance ought to be close to 180km. My meter said it was 176, but it had malfunctioned the last few k down.</div><div><br /></div><div>---</div><div><br /></div><div>I'll try to go up Fraser peak on the next ride. Now if only they would allow the route up Genting Peak, the 3 Peaks could as well be double Genting Peak & Fraser Peak. Now that would be something...</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-20290953636188168392011-06-05T19:30:00.000-07:002011-06-05T19:43:24.617-07:00Nirvana Memorial Charity Run<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxJnLUnIxiA/Tew-G37n4FI/AAAAAAAACj4/xvfl3JbWV0E/s1600/nirvana-charity-run-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 269px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxJnLUnIxiA/Tew-G37n4FI/AAAAAAAACj4/xvfl3JbWV0E/s400/nirvana-charity-run-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614931123238330450" /></a><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxJnLUnIxiA/Tew-G37n4FI/AAAAAAAACj4/xvfl3JbWV0E/s1600/nirvana-charity-run-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>At the start..<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Wxt2maxH9o/Tew-GvzY7sI/AAAAAAAACjw/UfHxT5YQJ64/s1600/nirvana-charity-run-2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 269px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Wxt2maxH9o/Tew-GvzY7sI/AAAAAAAACjw/UfHxT5YQJ64/s400/nirvana-charity-run-2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614931121056313026" /></a></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Wxt2maxH9o/Tew-GvzY7sI/AAAAAAAACjw/UfHxT5YQJ64/s1600/nirvana-charity-run-2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Chasing the 2 Caucasians..<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pTid-lIAkC8/Tew-GWtPzVI/AAAAAAAACjo/7c8Cwj40d3Y/s1600/nirvana-charity-run-3.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 269px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pTid-lIAkC8/Tew-GWtPzVI/AAAAAAAACjo/7c8Cwj40d3Y/s400/nirvana-charity-run-3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5614931114319662418" /></a></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pTid-lIAkC8/Tew-GWtPzVI/AAAAAAAACjo/7c8Cwj40d3Y/s1600/nirvana-charity-run-3.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>But ended in 4th<br /><br />It's titled 5km fun run. Now this is one of the shortest run course I've ever done.<div><br /></div><div>Upon receiving the bib, not many had signed up. But on the race day itself, some fast legs were there. </div><div><br /></div><div>There was 2 Caucasians, one elderly & the other young. And some local indians. When the race started, they were off sprinting, and I had to give chase. I was tailing them for some time, before the real fast guys (2 indians) just past us like effortlessly. </div><div><br />Well, this is a 5km race, and you just had to put the hammer down. But due to my lower cadence turn over, I knew it's next to impossible to even hang on to those guys, so I just tried to go at my own pace. </div><div><br /></div><div>At the turn around, the indian pair went off even faster. I was still finding myself chasing the caucasians, whom one I eventually caught up with, the younger one. He had slowed down considerably, I think due to over pushing. </div><div><br /></div><div>Ran back in 4th position in 15:53 for a distance of 4:34 (not actually 5km), pace 3.66min/km. It's a pretty flat course. I had run my limit, but as you go faster, certain limitations will kick in. Had to improve on my cadence.</div><div><br /></div><div>---</div><div>Michelle got first in the ladies. Unfortunately no prizes is given, as it's for everyone. This ought to be rectified next year, if it's held. </div></div>yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558085156429366793.post-79965507329271545772011-05-25T02:10:00.001-07:002011-05-25T18:37:28.939-07:00Tioman Eco Challenge: Warning! For Military Personnel Only<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZPHCXGd2Ug/Td2s_wdaXXI/AAAAAAAACjc/OXCQqLYczig/s1600/tioman-jetty.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZPHCXGd2Ug/Td2s_wdaXXI/AAAAAAAACjc/OXCQqLYczig/s400/tioman-jetty.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610830922113506674" /></a><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZPHCXGd2Ug/Td2s_wdaXXI/AAAAAAAACjc/OXCQqLYczig/s1600/tioman-jetty.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>After almost 9 hours from KL, we finally arrived...<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_zJRBRA7eds/Td2s_iEsrJI/AAAAAAAACjU/uewGDyOzkss/s1600/tioman-jetty1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_zJRBRA7eds/Td2s_iEsrJI/AAAAAAAACjU/uewGDyOzkss/s400/tioman-jetty1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610830918251752594" /></a></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_zJRBRA7eds/Td2s_iEsrJI/AAAAAAAACjU/uewGDyOzkss/s1600/tioman-jetty1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>My sis's first time here too...<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IglrM-VqJe8/Td2s3rU4u1I/AAAAAAAACjM/Qe1vLm7Xx4I/s1600/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-group-photo.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IglrM-VqJe8/Td2s3rU4u1I/AAAAAAAACjM/Qe1vLm7Xx4I/s400/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-group-photo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610830783296617298" /></a></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IglrM-VqJe8/Td2s3rU4u1I/AAAAAAAACjM/Qe1vLm7Xx4I/s1600/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-group-photo.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>A group pic before the start..<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P_2_4smw_Kk/Td2s3CcLQMI/AAAAAAAACjE/0dL8EJUSTz8/s1600/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-start.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P_2_4smw_Kk/Td2s3CcLQMI/AAAAAAAACjE/0dL8EJUSTz8/s400/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-start.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610830772321337538" /></a></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P_2_4smw_Kk/Td2s3CcLQMI/AAAAAAAACjE/0dL8EJUSTz8/s1600/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-start.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>This is the easy part...<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gDWSWGmIuGg/Td2s25JKD4I/AAAAAAAACi8/ebmM67XEPhA/s1600/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-start0.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gDWSWGmIuGg/Td2s25JKD4I/AAAAAAAACi8/ebmM67XEPhA/s400/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-start0.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610830769825648514" /></a></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gDWSWGmIuGg/Td2s25JKD4I/AAAAAAAACi8/ebmM67XEPhA/s1600/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-start0.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Before the start...I noticed a lot of strong guys taking part.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kqPTwM9MrFg/Td2s2uoLNAI/AAAAAAAACi0/kuLjDe0pI9M/s1600/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-start1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kqPTwM9MrFg/Td2s2uoLNAI/AAAAAAAACi0/kuLjDe0pI9M/s400/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-start1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610830767002956802" /></a></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kqPTwM9MrFg/Td2s2uoLNAI/AAAAAAAACi0/kuLjDe0pI9M/s1600/tioman-eco-challenge-2011-start1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a>Sky divers putting on a show...<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJ6qmJ9VRm8/Td2s2nliUBI/AAAAAAAACis/5-9KI4NQFt8/s1600/tioman-hills.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJ6qmJ9VRm8/Td2s2nliUBI/AAAAAAAACis/5-9KI4NQFt8/s400/tioman-hills.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610830765112840210" /></a></div><div>Hills here are indeed steep. The highest point of Tioman is 1000 meters above sea level. </div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJ6qmJ9VRm8/Td2s2nliUBI/AAAAAAAACis/5-9KI4NQFt8/s1600/tioman-hills.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br />Despite being a Pahangnite, I haven't been to the island before. Since the Tioman Eco Challenge is held there, with a promising 30km of trail run, I thought it would be a splendid way to visit and perhaps enjoy the trails.<div><br /></div><div>Ray Ng, Mich Looi, my sis & I went in my car, with a journey that took 6 hours to reached Mersing. Then it was another 2 hours ferry ride to the island. What struck me upon reaching, was the tall & steep hills which starts almost immediately from the shores. Uh oh, this doesn't look good.</div><div><br /></div><div>We had some briefing upon registration at Berjaya Tioman Resort. The trail is divided into 5 sections A, B, C, D & E. There's 3 checkpoints for A, B, C, and 2 chk points for D, and lastly 1 checkpoint for E. Cut off time is 7 hours. I thought I could game it in 5.</div><div><br /></div><div>According to the spokesman, the path from A1 to C2 will be very hard, and if you can get to C2, the rest of the parts will be smooth sailing. Which is kind of untrue. We'll get to that part later.</div><div><br /></div><div>---</div><div>Race day. Kind of lots of fanfare with skydivers & a VIP from the military to officiate. In fact there's lots of military guys taking part. And, best of all, the route is done by them as well.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Kenyans were as usual in the international. My focus would be on Jasni, and of course superhuman Dino himself. Strategy is to just run in the front pack.</div><div><br /></div><div>Race started, and soon we ran along the nice man made path, until we hit the hills. And that's where things get from easy to tough. First it's bloody steep. No one could run up, I just sort of trying to walk up as fast as I could, or as far as the lungs can take it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Secondly, lots of thorny bushes, on the surface, or grown on trunks that you could have use your hand to hold them. Basically it's a bit of nuisance if you have to pass through them. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thirdly, almost invisible small roots that you could have tripped if you aren't careful. Yes, even while walking, many times I got my foot stuck, and had almost fallen. </div><div><br /></div><div>Needless to say, Jasni had already passed me. Dino had disappeared up front. And I was just trying to move as carefully as possible which wasn't a good idea if you want to go fast. </div><div><br /></div><div>We had to follow yellow ribbons tied as a way point from one location to the other. Sometimes, even as a group, you might missed it, and you'll have to stop & look for it. </div><div><br /></div><div>The ridiculous thing on steepness is, just imagine from start to A2, the height at A2 is 450 meters. It took me 40 minutes to reach A2. Then it was a bit of downhill, which was steep as well, and running is not a good idea. It's only before, and after A3 (at the waterfall), that you could run a bit. </div><div><br /></div><div>I think Chan Mei Mei (first local lady), passed me after A2 on the downhill. The group that she was with was going downhill quite fast, and I was too chickened to follow.</div><div><br /></div><div>The route towards B2 reached a resort at the beach. Then we have to move towards B3, and C1. Then finally go uphill (very steep as well), towards C2. While climbing the rocks near C2, I saw one guy lying on his back and resting. It taxed even the strongest guys I have seen on the trails. </div><div>I will see more of this later on.</div><div><br /></div><div>There were some rain, which made the path more slippery, which made movement more dangerous. I was just adamant of trying to get to C2, in hope that the worse is over. Finally after 4:20, I did reached C2, which was beside the beach. I sat on the stretcher, took some bar, and drank, and it was the first time I questioned if the 7 hours cut off time is doable? Cause the problem was C2 is halfway point up to the finish. </div><div><br /></div><div>Ok, the route should be easier, as the organizer had said. But easy it was NOT. We have to go back right into the wild bushes & hills, and it was quite wild. There's one section you have to climbed up a rock 4 meters high using a rope. It wasn't going up any major uphills, BUT the route looks like just newly hacked, goes up & down until you reached C3.</div><div><br /></div><div>I just couldn't believe it. I thought we would be running beside man-made paths or beach, up to the end. </div><div><br /></div><div>Finally did reached C3, which reaches Kampung Paya if not mistaken. Thoughts of DNFing was really etched in my mind. I was tired, hungry, hot, & disoriented from all the pounding up & down trails. I have got 1hr and 10 minutes left to cover 10km. Ah, this should be the easy part, so I started running.</div><div><br /></div><div>After 5km, there's some trails we need to go through again. Nevermind, I thought, this could be the last one before we reach the beach. Then I saw the orange coloured apartment complex behind Berjaya Resort, and thought, yes, I finally made it. That's another 3km more...or so I thought.</div><div><br /></div><div>Upon reaching the beach after the trails, I saw a guy sitting on a log, and he said he's quitting cause we only got 15minutes. I wondered why, until I found what the reason was: we have to go back up the trails again on the right!. And there was some uphills again! My spirit is almost broken, and I couldn't comprehend why we can't run on the beach? F**k this, hell, I would rather swim across than see another rock, tree trunk, roots. But I remembered what David Goggins said "Always open the door, which gave me a few more miles". Alrighty then, it's back to hill slugging.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally after much trail navigating insanity, I reached the final E1 checkpoint, to run up some gravel, and finally reaching the tarmac on the golf course. I couldn't be much happier upon reaching the finishing line. My sis had been waiting patiently for 2 hours more, and I didn't want to make her wait longer. This medal is so tough to get, I had thoughts of framing it up.</div><div><br /></div><div>Time taken was 7:09:00</div><div><br /></div><div>Dino got first, Jasni 7th, and most of the top 10 was won by military guys. </div><div><br /></div><div>---</div><div>Ok, compared to Sabah Adventure Challenge, this is indeed harder by a few times. I didn't thought of quitting in SAC, but I had almost quit this due to the cut off time. Definitely the wildest trail I have ever been through. I mean, I have been through thorns & stuff like that, but not in a race where you are chasing for time. Some parts are dangerous, as one mistake could be fatal. I think around 50 made it back. The rest DNF. </div><div><br /></div><div>Compared to the TNF SG? I am sorry folks, TNF SG is like a walk in the park. On a scale from 1 to 10, TNF sg is at 1 or 2, SAC around 6 and Tioman Eco challenge at 10. So if you want to kill yourself, try this.</div><div><br /></div></div>yipwthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14258422029824420483noreply@blogger.com5