Mid Life Chronicles

Moving to new blog

2009-09-30T23:50:00.003+08:00

This blog has been moved to www.shcheong2.blogspot.com

Siem Reap

2009-09-30T23:00:00.013+08:00

Decisions

2009-05-30T23:39:00.002+08:00

The discovery of facebook lead to the absence of blogging for more than half a year.

Ran 3 races this year the Malakoff 12km, GE30k and Orange run. I was the 3rd last Veteran runner to finish 30kms clocking a time of 4:16. The Orange run route was increased to 11kms, finishing 72mins. These statistic show I have slowed down considerably by 10% over the last 2 years. I have to admit I lack discipline and perseverance in training prefering more to hike during weekends.

However, I still enjoy participating races as long as I do not risk injury, health complications or road dangers when the traffic control is withdrawn.

The SCKL Marathon is around the corner and the facts say I am ill prepared. I have never skipped or dnf a race. This could be my first.

Saga Hill

2008-11-16T23:26:00.003+08:00

At ground zero.

Mee Peng and Tammy

Getting ready to ascend.

The tiny waterfall was useful to wash up after the hike.

Zig zag to the top.

View of Cheras tamans.

Map shows a route to Bukit Putih. Will attempt it the next trip.

At the summit.

A hero's welcome.

Yeoh siblings: Sylvia and Sean

Tony, Kim and niece.

The summit was rather spacious with swings and hammock.

Reward for summiting.

Carboman ran the NYC marathon

2008-11-10T18:17:00.003+08:00

Carboman aka Jamie Pang ran the New York City marathon on Nov 2.
This is the person who got me into running 5 years ago.

His discipline in training, passion for running and knowledge in this area is exceptional.

While I find running boring, Jamie can make it interesting and that is what keeps me going all these years.

Jamie finished a personal best in NYC.
Well Done Sifu !

Read all about his dream run in the following websites:

http://roadtonycm.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/friends/?ref=tn#/profile.php?id=780768898
http://www.carboman.blogspot.com/

Fire in the neighbourhood

2008-11-01T12:21:00.001+08:00

2 weeks of indolence, we finally found the courage to exercise in FRIM. After I reversed my car out from the driveway, I notice a neighbour, 4 houses away; upper storey was spewing black smoke. Mee Peng exclaimed the house was on fire and told me to stop the car.

We got out and saw an elderly Malay lady running across the road towards the opposite house screaming for help. When we got to the main gate, we could see a fire has broken on the left side of the master bedroom window. Since the design of the house is identical to ours, I suspect judging from the initial flame location, the air-cond 15A starter could have short-circuited causing ignition.

4 other persons emerged from the house: a teenager who guided an elderly man in his 70s and 2 young children probably 5-6 years old. Mee Peng took the 2 kids to safety, to the elderly lady who turned out to be their grandmother. Both their parents were not at home.

While the teenager went back and forth the house to salvage belongings, I asked the elderly man if there was anybody else inside the house. He mumbled something which I could not comprehend and wanted to go back to the house but we held him back.

I tried to look for the owner’s garden hose but could not find one.

In a matter of minutes, the house was in an inferno. The roof was completely ablaze and later collapsed.

There was a Proton Satria car parked on the lane just beside the house. The teenager probably in his late teens said it was his. Mee Peng asked me to drive his car away as she said he can’t drive.
I was very apprehensive because the house was an end-lot. The car is just next to a high vertical wall which is blazing from the top. I was afraid the wall may collapse on the car.

In the end I took his car keys and fumbled with the manual transmission as I have not driven one for months coupled with the fear of the wall falling on my head! I managed to reverse the car to safety.

The residential security guard came, bravely stood on top of the house pillar and used the adjacent neighbour’s garden hose to spray whatever water he could muster from the little water pressure.

By now a crowd had gathered and we were trying to contain the fire from spreading to the next house.

I have no experience of this sort and was in disarray as to how to douse the fire. I used the next neighbour’s garden hose to channel the water upwards but it was quite useless. The water pressure was simply inadequate.

Finally 2 fire engines and a TNB pick-up truck arrived. The powerful water hoses doused the fire in a matter of minutes.

The occupants were very lucky to escape injury.

The grandmother relayed to Mee Peng that one of her grandchildren was actually locked inside the bedroom upstairs and that was what got her terrified. With the help from a neighbour, the door was barged open and the child was rescued just before we arrive.

This incident shocked many of us residents as we have never thought a linked house could burn so easily and rapidly in a dry hot weather.

Close call

2008-10-21T23:30:00.003+08:00

After lunch at Plaza Ampang, we headed back to Ampang Park for our underground walk transit to our office. I told my 2 lunch partners: Ganesh and Newton that I need to go to the ATM to withdraw money. I left them and wasted little time as it was beginning to rain and there was a scheduled meeting at 2 p.m.

Usually, after a cash withdrawal, I would be very conscious of the people around me especially if there are people who appear to be tailing but this time I let my guard down because I was preoccupied of how to get back without getting wet.

I applied what my father-in-law would do in a situation like this. Use newspaper to shelter the head. I bought The Star newspaper from the Ampang Park LRT station and took out the classified section ready for disposal once it got soaked.

While waiting for the lift to arrive, a Malay man told a woman probably in her late 40s that the elevator was faulty. I knew it wasn’t because I have taken this lift a thousand times. True enough, the lift came and a group of people went in. I stood right at the corner to deter pick-pockets.

Within seconds, the lift reached the only level at the top. To my surprise, only 1 or maybe 2 people got out of the lift. The rest about 5-7 of them remained inside. I thought they could be foreigners who are unsure where they were going. As I made my way to the lift doors, a burly man deliberately blocked my exit.

Immediately I knew something was amiss. At the same time, someone from behind lifted my left leg slacks to grab my feet just above my ankle. This got me berserk. I have heard and read about this modus operandi before. It had happened to one of my colleagues before, in a bus.

Rage

I got into a rage and shouted “Apa ini ?!!!”. It is strange because that few seconds when the person tried to hold my leg, my mind went blank as if something was trying to cloud my mind.

I am not sure if it was panic, near hypnosis, reflex action or pure anger; like a man possessed, I pushed and jostled out of the elevator. As I exited I ran out into the rain with the newspaper on my head to the adjacent Hotel Nikko. No one followed me.

I am not sure what would have happened had I been trapped inside the lift once the doors closed.

Later, Ganesh and Newton recounted to me that they were actually outside the lift waiting for the rain to stop and saw me running into the rain but did not witness the incident.

In hindsight, the decoy where the man said the lift was faulty could be a ploy to coax me into using the escalator. 4 years ago, my neighbour had relayed to me his bad experience of being robbed a few thousand ringgit while on the escalator. He had exchange cash from a Money Changer.

How they pick-pocket on the escalator

I spoke to my neighbour this morning and here is an account of his story. It happened in Sogo Shopping Complex. As my neighbour work overseas, he had just exchanged a few thousand cash from the Money Changer and was on his way down the escalator from the 2nd floor to ground floor.

As he was approaching the ground floor, a man pretended to drop something on the floor and bent down to look for the "missing" item. The man would stretch his arms to block the escalator exit causing my neighbour to back step on the escalator steps. Unknown to him, there were already a few collaborators behind who would then pretend to hold him as he bump to them. It is at this confused "shoving", the crook(s) took the cash from his pocket.

Raub Durians

2008-08-02T18:31:00.009+08:00

I had abstained and avoided the king of fruit long enough. The opportunity to saviour this great delight came when my friend Fook Shing invited me for a "Eat all you can" durian feast in Kg. Tras, Raub, Pahang. An event organized by the Heriot-Watts club. Kenny was even more keen, not just for the durians but the sheer excitement of visiting a fruit orchard farm thrilled him. Raub was also his birthplace. 6 of us + Kuan Li the only child, fit into Shing's 7-seater Toyota Avanza.

About 8 cars parked under the durian trees amongst the trimmed down short mangosteen trees. Everybody including myself was eyeing the famed "Musang King". When I finally got to eat a piece, it wasn't that great. I preferred the other stronger flavoured thick yellow-orange flesh which I did not get to identify its species.

With no more than 15 seeds, my stomach bloated and I had to surrender. After the gluttonning, we wandered off to pick more durians. The orchard owner allowed whatever dropped on the ground can be tar-pau (take-away) back, despite protest from his wife.

We greedily collected 33 durians of various sizes and hundreds of mangosteens! Despite a stuffy stomach, we still had room to eat the famous Bentong homemade ice-cream. It has been a long while since I had this kind of food for breakfast and lunch.

The orchard owner.

Dog eating Durian.

Kuan Li's first encounter with a durian tree.

Musang King

First bite.

Famous Bentong homemade ice-cream.

Corn and vanilla ice-cream.

Cameron Highlands

2008-05-26T19:55:00.007+08:00

To my surprise, the Boh teabags that we buy are actually NOT packed in Camerons. Sacks of tea leaves are sent for repackaging in factories located outside Cameron Highlands.

Oly Apartment, Tanah Rata.

Vincent, Christine's friend was so kind to show us the famous makan shops in Ipoh.

This Coffee shop in Ipoh Old Town is believed to be the pioneer of White Coffee. It had a sourish taste, not to my liking and doesn't taste like white coffee!

Kenny attempting to swallow the fresh hydroponic tomatoes!

Janet's 51st birthday.

Kenny a diehard Liverpool fan since his school days.

Bharat Plantation Tea house.

Having tea at Sg. Palas Boh Plantation.

Giant chillis, not sure if it is pedas (spicy/hot) else it will just be another variant of capsicium.

Gunung Nuang

2008-05-19T21:59:00.008+08:00

Gunung Nuang is the highest mountain in Selangor. We have no intention of scaling the peak as it would probably take at least 8 hours to complete the journey. Physically and mentally we weren’t ready to take up this challenge.

It is said the level of difficulty at the later stage is more challenging than Mt.Kinabalu. Strong hikers can complete the journey within a day returning in the evening with torch light. It gets dark very quickly in the jungle.

My target was to reach Camp Lolo. This is a site where campers stay for a night before making the assault to the peak the following day.

The entry used to be free last year but now it is RM1 per person. I remember how muddy the track was but this time it was as dry as a desert.

This was also the area where a group of students or junior cadets got lost last year. It is believed some mountains are spiritually strong. This could be one of them. Mee Peng constantly reminds me not to make acerbic remarks while in a jungle or cave for fear of offending the spirits.

The start of the trail was wide with the heaps of tall green bamboos surrounding the forest. It was a good start and warm up, almost no steep climb but it was a very long track.

After over 1.5 hours of walking, we reached the waterfalls and took a break. To continue to the next stage, we had to cross the stream. Though it looks fairly easy but most of us were trying to do it without soaking our shoes.

From here onwards, it was a narrow uphill path all the way to the dam. There was a large rusty pipe that runs parallel and we soon found out the dam was not those that we usually find in large reservoir lakes. To my disappointment, it was a mini and disused semi-wooden dam. We met 2 hikers here and seek their advice what was ahead in Camp Lolo. They told us there was nothing much to explore between the dam and Camp Lolo.

My stopwatch displayed we had already trekked more than 2+ hours. I decided we should heed back since it had exceeded my estimated time of arrival.

On the way back, while crossing the stream, Mee Peng slipped and fell in a strange way, but luckily she escaped with no injury. Incidentally, I happened to video record the fall!

I slipped too…

Earlier, while we were hiking up the dam, I diverted from the main path and went to an obscure area along the stream to take a leak. I forgot what my parents taught me when I was a kid, to say “excuse me” in Chinese before doing the thing. While walking back to the main path, my left leg stepped on a large rock which seems perfectly safe and within a split second, my left shoe lost its grip sending my body off tangent, I slammed my right shoulder on the hard rock. I twisted my right arm, probably strained ligament. It was nothing serious but later I had trouble using my right hand to scrub my body during shower.
I inspected the rock; it had algae all over it.

We reached the base HQ just before 2 p.m, approximately 4.5 hours of trek time.

Overall, except for the minor incidents, it was a good hike. We are now more eager than before to explore new trails.

NB Pacesetters 15km

2008-05-18T23:39:00.001+08:00

I used to clip my bib, select my socks, careful diet, study the route etc., at latest the night before the race. Over time, I have slackened and only do the essentials on race day morning.

When I got up, there was only one thing that troubled me. Should I take a risk and wear the brand new untested Asics Gel-Empire 2 shoes which I bought yesterday? Temptation overcame the fact that one should never wear a totally fresh pair of running shoes in a race. I lube Vaseline all over my toes (which I don’t normally do for distances below 21kms), as a precaution to mitigate abrasion. The other 2 factors were that the US size 9.5 shoes fitted snugly and I am not a fast runner.

Mee Peng was assigned to assist at the 1st water-station. The starting point was not properly cordoned with an entry point causing several runners to look for the “out-of-stock” elastic wrist ribbon-strap.

The regulars: Choi, Jamie, Kenneth, Tey and Geraldine were there. Shortly, after the start Kenneth ran up to me and said to pace with him. I told him I may not be able to keep up.
As it turned out I ran ahead.

After passing the National Monument the 2nd time, I thought I was heading towards the finishing (I didn’t study the route) at Padang Merbok. I use all my reserves and was astonished by the impressive time I was achieving.

Ha! It turned out I had to do another loop at Bank Negara! Even though it was a downhill, my strides dwindled. I soon ran out of gas.

Kenneth eventually caught up and overtook me in the last 1 km near Bank Negara. It was also at this point, my shoes which had been performing so well in the last 14kms began to feel constrictive.

At the finishing line, my fellow faithful photographer Mr. Tey Eng Tiong was again there to snap the finishers.
I finished in 1:44:04. I am much slower this year. What is important is to keep going, for better endurance or for better health. The latter is assured.

This year's route will be different. RM15 new PACM T-shirt.

My first Asics shoes. Gel Empire 2.

The Porridge Tow-Kay. The bubur was silky smooth.

The NB 1221, Mizuno Strada and Brooks Forza are going to Charity. Fabric and insoles still in good condition.

There were quite a number of veteran photographers.

Laptops at work.

Captain Ronnie taking results.

Left is our house neighbour Ling.

Km-5 waterstation.

Bukit Putih

2008-05-11T23:05:00.007+08:00

Many parents brought their young children to tackle the slopes.

William our Guide is a resident of Cheras and a regular hiker here.

Fook Shing descending. The trees' roots formed natural steps.

The locals sell fruit, desserts and laid tables strategically right at the entrance.

Crossing a mini stream.

At the foot of the hill, a hiker had a bath here openly in public!

Level 1

Spiralling root or branch? I had seen many of these snapped by curious visitors who abused it.

Shao Lin training?

Bukit Putih aka Wangsa Hill aka Ah Pak San is a hidden escapade secret in Taman Cuepacs, Cheras. Having lived in KL for umpteen years, it was a first visit for all 5 of us. William Low was our guide, his regular weekend hike site.

Parking woes

Upon arrival the parking area right in front of the entrance to the hill was packed to the brim. William told us to wait for cars to vacate the area as there were bound to be hikers who had come earlier, leaving soon. Just as one car was about to leave, Yew Keong was getting ready to reverse his car when suddenly, out of nowhere, a car sped forward. The lady driver wound down her window (she had a wooden stick) and started flaming us. She said she had been waiting “in line” with 3 other cars behind and accused us of jumping queue.

Not wanting to squabble over such trivial matters, we relented and let her have her parking. She was still upset despite our explanation that we have no idea that there was an unwritten parking rule here. I suggested perhaps a parking numbering system could be adopted or a sign-board to inform the public of the parking procedures.

What puzzled me most was why hikers can’t park a little further (which we did eventually), after all we are here to exercise.

The hill trail was an interesting one. There is an option to choose a more difficult rope section or an easier path. Fook Shing and I went up the easier way and came down the tougher path.

Incidentally, Mee Peng and Anne bumped into the lady driver and again she started bickering over the parking issue.

We went as far as Level 5 before turning back, just under 3 hours to complete. I will be back to venture into the waterfall area which we didn’t manage to go since William advised that we should be heading back.

Next destination: Gunung Nuang.

Ketumbar Hill

2008-05-01T22:39:00.008+08:00

Ketumbar Hill is located at Taman Cheras neighbourhood, in the vicinity of Ketumbar Heights and Hill condominium. An abandoned rubber tree estate, the hike takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. Not much of scenery or flora, a moderate degree of difficulity in climbing. It is on private land, RM1 for carpark, no entrance fee and well maintained by the locals.

William Low, J, Hui Leng, Sylvia, Yew Keong, Mee Peng, Anne and Fook Shing.

Mid-way rain shelter. Many trees above became "headless" after being struck by lightning. May not be a safe shelter afterall.

Kim and Tony Lim.

Home-made cement cast dumb-bells.

Yew Keong's metal hiking pole bent.

Tony and I always meet in religious sites. There was a Chinese temple at the foot of the hill.

At a view point. Probably around 1000 feet above sea level.

BHP Orange Run

2008-04-13T22:09:00.002+08:00

My watch is deliberately set to be 5 mins faster. It showed 7:29 a.m. Kenny, Mee Peng and I coolly walked towards the Mutiara Damansara Cineplex foyer. We thought we were just in time until an official chided “Men category already started and still walking slowly some more”.

I got the message and ran towards the main road. Indeed, the race had just started; we were just in time to follow the rear pack. Usually such races would start as scheduled or late but never earlier. As the sky had darkened with a possibility of rain, I deduce the organizers wanted to get it going as quickly as possible.

The cool condition was ideal to subdue the overheating body. After 20 mins, it started to drizzle and I begin to worry for Mee Peng. Fortunately the rain stopped. After running this route for the 3rd year, familiarity helped to pace the slopes accordingly.

Towards the last meters, the ever reliable cameraman Tey was there again to snap this shot. Thank you sir!

Receding hairline!
According to Jamie’s GPS the distance was 9.89 km. I finished in 1:01:49.

There were plenty or should I say oversupply of canned beverages, hot teh tarik, and nasi lemak were distributed in abundance. There were chairs and tables thoughtfully set-up for runners to eat and drink all they can comfortably – a first I have seen. The stalls seem to overwhelm the race event itself!

Later shopped at Tesco and at the same time get free parking.

KL International Marathon 2008

2008-03-30T21:46:00.003+08:00

This year the KLIM organizers have generously added an extra hour of qualifying time for the Full Marathon, making it 7hrs. I signed-up immediately the moment I read it in the form. I believe there are many runners who are determined to finish the distance regardless of the time. The setback was once the qualifying time was over; traffic control will be withdrawn leaving the slower runners very much on their own.

Eve

12 hours before the race, we visited my mother-in-law in Klang who was feeling unwell. We paid a call on a Chinese Physician who offered me a glass of black Chinese herbal wine. I asked the Sinseh will the alcohol affect my running tomorrow. He boasted in China, Chinese athletes drink tonic to boost performance. I chuckled and gulped the bitter dark elixir.

I know how important it was to eat well especially the night before a race but somehow temptation overcame me. I drank the famous Klang Chong Kok coffee; half boiled kampong eggs, toasted butter-kaya bread and fried cucuk udang. I normally avoid caffeine in the eve of a run to avert sleeplessness.

True enough, though I went to bed at 9:30 p.m, I could not sleep until close to midnight.

2:30 a.m.

Got up and was glad I had at least a few hours sleep. Eating the banana Powerbar this time was like Fear Factor food. It was too sweat and sticky. I don’t have this problem before.

4:30 a.m.

This year the group seems larger. I mentioned to Jamie, it appears anybody can run the Marathon because you can see the runners come in all shapes, sizes, age and attire (including full Spiderman suit).
I found the weather a bit warm at this hour of the morning. As the gun went off, I trailed behind Choi and Jamie and wish them luck as we step on the electronic matt.

Somewhere at km-3, Tey passed me. A lady runner caught my attention with her teasing shorts drooping precariously. It is like those low trendy Jeans that we see very often that bares the lower back.

After the km-5 drink station, a Chinese lad probably in his late teens or early 20s runner, carried a big polycarbonate bottle with his 2 fingers and his other hand, a rollup map. I was afraid he may not know what he had got into or maybe he had unknowingly registered in the wrong category.

I reached the 10km mark in 1:16:50. I was 2+ mins faster than last year. My thoughts were to go for the next 10km one minute faster.

Somewhere along Jalan Cheras, probably km-17, I was beginning to lose pace. My tummy felt uncomfortable, it wasn’t a stomachache. The perspiration trapped around my belly wasn’t drying fast enough. Not sure if it was the Adidas vest. I quickly went to a petrol station for a leak and rejoined within seconds with a hope the situation would change but it didn't. By now the lad with the plastic bottle had overtaken me; never judge a runner by his antics – this lad can run.

A Wall too early

When fatigue and nausea manifested, fear creep into my spine because the symptoms were much more pronounced this time round than last year. My rhythm and resilience slackened. I calculated, with 25kms to go I have to tread cautiously if I want to survive. Pushing ahead and ignoring the signs may lead to DNF.

I reached the 21km mark in 2:47:37. 4 minutes slower than last year. Francis Cheng, the 74-year old runner stopped somewhere at Concorde Hotel to massage his cramped legs. I offered him my analgesic cream. I too was also beginning to develop twitches and cramps, a result of the earlier tell tale signs.

Approaching Dataran and U-turn to Jalan Raja Laut, Lim Tow Suan from Klang Pacesetters and a lady PACM cheered me on. I look ahead and behind me, there was not a single runner in sight for as far as 200 meters. I was alone.

A Mat Rempit motorbike almost hit me at a junction along Jalan Raja Muda. He tried to beat me to the crossing.

30 km

4:14:42, I am way off my mark. 11 minutes slower than last year. A mid-20s Indian runner whom I befriended while we run-walk and treaded leads for the last 10km was eager to finish within 6 hours. He asked if it was possible, I replied frankly at current pace it is unlikely and estimated finishing around 6:20. He was not wearing a watch and relied on me to time-keep. He managed to pull away eventually.

Cramps

I was shocked when I found there were at least 5 runners waiting to cross the busy Jalan Ipoh-Mahameru crossroad. This should not happen. After waving at the cars, I took the lead to sprint across, mid-way I had a severe cramp attack on my right calf. The police looked at me, smiled and gave a gesture if I was ok. I skipped with my good leg and limped across. The drivers who noticed my predicament, stopped to let me through.

Keep going!

I manage to garner a bit of speed though not much after PWTC and caught sight of the no-watch Indian, the water-bottle Chinese lad and a Malay runner who had crooked knees. The 3 of them had acquainted one another and motivating as a group to toil on.

I was closing on them in the last 5 kms but they picked up speed and were soon out of sight again.

40 km

5:56:09. I must have been doing over 10mins/km. Met Nordin who said he hit the wall at km-30. He said his lungs just gave up on him. We spoke normally with no signs of exhaustion but yet our legs couldn’t move.

Finished at last!

Photo courtesy of Tey Eng Tiong.
In a marathon, it is always a huge relief to see the finishing line.
2 buses greeted me head on, that goes to show how late I was!
It was easy to spot Mee Peng and Tey Eng Tiong by the side photographing as most of the people had left.

It felt great completing despite a much slower time.
The extra hour enabled 96 runners to finish within qualifying time.

Net time : 6:15:54
Gun time: 6:16:55

Removing the champion chip for instant refund. Good idea .

Ryan

Francis Cheng

Pacesetters Great Eastern 30km

2008-01-20T19:00:00.001+08:00

The GE30k has one of the most challenging routes, a route favored by many runners as a base to prepare for long distance races. The difficulty is offset by Pacesetters superior race organization especially in the distribution of water and sports drink. With that thought in mind, slower runners like me have less to worry.

The weather was rather humid. I ran the 1st 10km at a comfortable pace (1:27), much slower than any race before.

Along the way, somebody approached me from the opposite side and greeted, I looked up, it was Captain Ronnie, looking relax and didn’t have der trademark “Pia” facial expression. Down further, it was Dinesh, gave him a high five.
Saw Jamie too but missed out Choi.

I kept a constant check on my leg injury which I sustained in the Seremban Half-Marathon and was rather glad it did not surface after passing the 20 km mark.

On the return leg, just after the Jalan Duta Mosque, I came upon a group of 4 veteran runners. We had one thing in common, all of us were balding. We helped one another to cross the busy Jalan Duta.

Cruising confidently pass the Tennis Stadium, I had a muscle pull on my left calf that prompted me to slow to a walk. The brand new black NB shorts (RM68) I wore had a rather large zipper pocket (for a running shorts), ergonomically located by the side (not behind or front). The zipper pocket was perfect to keep things like car keys and even a handphone if weighing down the shorts is not a constraint.

I applied the home pre-packed analgesic cream Deep Heat on both my stiffening legs and pass the remainder to one of the balding runners who thought he was suppose to eat it!

Towards the last km, cars were caught in the jam along the Lake Club road. A driver wound down his car window and shouted my name. It was Jamie.

I knew how slow I had been running as towards the finishing line; many participants were already leaving, walking the opposite direction. I was a bit embarrassed when a couple of strangers cheered me on. I finished in 4:11:05. This year’s distance was probably 1 km longer.

The guy in front of me took the last finisher’s medal. I was told by the official they will post one to me. I was looking forward to the finisher’s T-shirt but this time round it was a hand towel instead.

Hanoi

2007-09-26T23:14:00.001+08:00

Cathedral

Halong Bay

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Hoan Kiem Lake.

Freshly made Vietnamese "Chee Chong Fun" for breakfast.

The French Citroens.

Typical breafast: Beef soup noodles and baguette

Vietnamese "Rojak" boiled pork with salad.

This was one trip we were not looking forward to embark. The tickets were pre-booked earlier in the year during AirAsia’s 1 million free flights promotion. It was just 3 months ago we climbed Mt.K, the thought of packing and funding the trip was disconcerting.

Our plan was to travel light, wear quick drying T-shirts that can be easily washed and reused. With the monsoon season hovering at its tail end, there was no telling if it will rain cats and dogs. The invaluable disposal raincoat has now become our permanent traveling companion.

No liquid

The new International Airlines regulation prohibits hand carry water or liquid exceeding 100ml. Water sold inside the boarding area cost 3 times more (500ml = RM5), which I felt was exploiting.

Noi Bai airport

We landed in Noi Bai airport at 7:45 p.m. Strangely, 2 young Vietnamese girls who had visa to work in a Bayan Lepas Electronics Factory were struggling to fill up the immigration form despite our reassurance that they need not do so since it is their home country. Sensing their distress, we helped them anyway to complete the forms.
The weather was no different from KL. Stars Hotel had arranged transport for us at USD10 per taxi. I anticipated the Hotel would have misspelled my name and it was the case when I saw the placard held by the cab driver.

Hooting and Flashing

I was rather taken aback by the incessant hooting and headlight flashing by the driver to signal the slower vehicles to give way. It is an acceptable mode of public road conduct, as the motorists are not offended by such gestures. Had this been in Malaysia, there would have been countless cases of road bullies and fatalities.

Stars Hotel

The hotel manager, Mr.Quang greeted us. The hotel was what I had envisaged; narrow with steep stairs leading to the bedrooms. The 4-storey building was thoughtfully crafted to optimize room space.

A typical building in the Old Town district probably measured less than 15 feet in width but its height can reach up to 6 stories! Elevators are almost non-existent.

Night Bazaar

We were given the highest floor, Level 4. The balcony gave a limited view of the Old Town district with the noise of motorbikes roaring perpetually oblivious to the locals but unsettling to first time visitors like us.

We asked Mr. Quang for recommendations to have dinner and he plotted a route on the map. I followed exactly his directions and ended in the middle of a very busy night bazaar street where peddlers sell their main commodity: Toys.

It was like a carnival, a kid’s Toyland paradise. As it turns out, the locals were doing shopping for the forthcoming Mooncake festival.

Here it is celebrated like Halloween; people wore Devil’s battery-powered red horns, impersonate Harry Porter: hat, wand and ghoulish masks. Perhaps it was a culture left behind by the previous colonial masters?

Tam Coc

Feet rowing.

Submerged limestone hills where farmers commute by small metal dinghy. An old couple rowed the boat for almost 2.5 hours, towards the last leg of the journey, the boatmen turned salesmen. They stopped rowing and begin promoting their goods. We politely declined their offer after the agreed purchase amount “suddenly” changed upon payment (we did use a calculator to show them the exact amount). Despite these tactics, we tipped them only after we got off the boat. Later, we heard from our group complaining to the tour guide that some of the boatmen refused to row unless they buy something or give tips.

Rice field graves

Traversing the countryside on the Ford minibus with bicycles and motorcycles weaving from the edge of the road, I can’t help peering through the window the rather “short” graves that were sporadically buried in the rice fields. Out of respect of the deceased, Mee Peng asked me not to photograph the subject.

The tour guide said it is customary for local peasants to bury their dead in their backyard, preferably in a damp area to accelerate decomposition. The corpse is unearthed after a period of 3 years, decomposed flesh sheared off and canistered into an urn. The urn is then re-buried in a 4-feet tomb, which explains the “shortness”.

Mens’ Drink

Cold-blooded reptiles such as snakes/cobra and lizards combined with scorpions are concocted with rice wine inside a large bottle. The local say it is a potent “men’s drink”, but I sensed it was a local brewed aphrodisiac.

Sapa

We traveled to Sapa by a night sleeper train. The journey took about 9 hours. There were 4 berths in each cabin. We shared the cabin with a friendly couple from Denmark: Niels and Helle. It was an enlightening encounter as we exchanged culture, travel experiences and chatted on various subjects for hours before retiring to bed. Later, they became our tour companions. I must say meeting new friends and foreigners was the highlight of our trip.

Niels and Helle.

The train reminded me of the thriller "Murder of the Orient Express".

We stayed at the Royal Sapa Hotel that had a long verandah with a panoramic view of the mountains.

On the day of our arrival, we trekked to the Cat Cat tribal Hmong village and visited a small hut that accommodates 20+ people.

Dan, Helle and Mee Peng inside the Hmong hut.

Corn hung on ceiling. For human consumption and animal feed.

Day 2 – Hiking

The tour guide, Dan pre-empt us that Day 2 of the hike would take 6-7 hours traversing several hills. He advised us not to respond to the locals if they followed the group or appear friendly by asking questions. The reason was these “freelancers” expect a tip and if they don’t get one, they may swear profanities. I must say Dan is one of the best and most honest tour guides that I have ever met. He earned my respect for managing the culture shock.

Our hiking group was an interesting blend; Niels from Denmark, 70-year–old Peter an Australian, Turkish by origin and later a Vietnamese, Theahm who resides in Germany.

Niels, Peter, Dan and Mee Peng

A scenic highland landscaped by terraced multi-leveled rice fields sloping gradually irrigated by the nearby waterfall. The locals resourcefully tapped the kinetic energy from the stream to
pound the paddy husk.

A ready to harvest rice-field turns yellowish green giving the landscape a colourful glaze

Cow-shit Omelette

Dan carried a bagful of baguettes (the most common bread in Vietnam, Malaysia’s roti canai equivalent) for lunch. We stopped by a hut where Dan turned Cook by frying the eggs, prepared salad and bananas.

In the midst of asking Niels to help me with a photo, I accidentally knocked the table, overturning the plate, spilling the deliciously fried omelette, on the sandy floor! Mee Peng salvaged the food by rinsing it with water.

Niels quipped we now have Cow-shit Omelette…..hehehe.
Nobody had reservation of not eating the omelette. We finished the eggs as hunger overcame cow-dung seasoning.

Afternoon nap? They slept so quietly. We did not realize their presence until later.

Buffaloes

I notice the villagers of Sapa treat their buffaloes like pets. The Sapa buffaloes are some of the coolest I have seen. They give you a stare that can mean nothing but to a tourist like me, it meant I better not make any sudden moves!

Peter negotiates with this buffalo…

Peter: “ Hello Mr.Buffalo! Why do you look so Stupid?
Can you carry me?
How much? How much? “

Kids hug the buffalo.

The Children of Sapa

Mee Peng bought a roll of Mentos but we never got to eat any as she gave it away to the children of Sapa.

The friendly kids gave Peter and Mee Peng the bamboo sticks at the start of the hike.

Yelling "Hello! Hello!". They scrambled down the hill to greet us.

Dan ask us a question:

“The farmers buy only one item when they go to town. Can you guess what is it that they buy? “

The answer was SALT.

Rice with salt water.

Hostility

Towards the last 2 kms of the trail, a group of boisterous children approached us. One of them snatched Mee Peng’s bamboo stick that was given to her earlier at the start of the hike by a hill-tribe child.
Another 2 children followed Peter like a hawk, chanting, “You take picture but you NO PAY ME!” repeatedly like an endless tape .

4WD broke down

On the way back, the Toyota Land Cruiser radiator overheated. It turned out there was no radiator cap to contain the steam. Not a problem as there was plenty of mountain water running along the road. The radiator was refilled and we were off again.

Back at the hotel I congratulated Peter for completing the entire hike. Peter said he would rather take a chance today, than risk not knowing if he would wake up alive tomorrow.
Earlier, at the start of the trek, Niels and I were a bit worried if he could sustain the entire journey.

Halong Bay

A 4 hour bus ride from Hanoi to the mainland jetty. We boarded an impressive 2-storey boat called the "Imperial Junk" and I was looking forward to a sumptuous seafood buffet.

First stop was the caves. The people believe long time ago the island was submerged in water. This is evident from the “wave” like structure inside the limestone hill cavern resembling seawater erosion.

The cave's "wave" erosion.

View from the deck.

Next stop was for snorkeling and swimming. We didn’t do any of it but instead hike up a small hill, which gave a birds-eye view of the Bay.

Sunset and sunrise were supposed to be spectacular but it was just ok for me. The photos turned out more impressive that the actual scenery probably because the digital camera enhanced the primary colours.

The blue hue and overcast was like a painting, a signature landscape of this renowned Bay.

Seafood dinner

To my slight disappointment, the lunch and dinner were not buffet style as I was looking forward to greedily rake the seafood. We dined with Dong from China, Eddy an American-El Salvadorian and Justina a Sabahan (East Malaysian). Initially all of us were rather reserved but after our meal we were energized and the group spoke enthusiastically.
Dong is part time assisting his uncle who owns a cable-manufacturing factory, to explore business opportunities in this country. She is still doing her undergraduate studies.

Dong, Eddy and Justina.

Momma (from Japan) and Dong.

The next day, the ships were seen leaving the area. I looked at the sky and it looked cloudy. Apparently there was a forecast of a storm. Upon reaching mainland, it rained. Many disappointed newly arrived tourists had to be turned back. I was told a severe storm could topple the junk ship.
We were lucky to escape the bad weather.

Perfume Pagoda

We got acquainted with Minh, 23-years of age, a local Vietnamese student through Dong. He invited us to his hometown, the famous Perfume Pagoda.

We took the public bus a distance of about 50 kms from Hanoi city costing less than VND10,000 (RM 2.50) per person. As soon as we got off from the bus, Minh’s 49-year-old dad was already waiting with 2 motorcycles. Minh took over one of the bikes, Mee Peng and I hopped in from behind and the 3 of us were off in a breeze. Sensing our apprehension of overloading, he reassured us he had good biking skills, honed from the years of childhood riding in the village.

A 1-hr boat ride similar to the type at Tam-Coc and another 1.5 hours hike up the mountain, brought us to the holy temple. On the way, we met some Israelis.

Minh making a necklace from a lotus shoot.
The name “Perfume” originated from the scent of fragrant flowers presented in the temple by worshippers.

The Perfume Pagoda temple had a very profound aura of divinity.

Minh relates to us what his grandfather told him about the place when he was a child. There was one dark section, 2 deities face each other. Couples who want children can pray to any one of the deities, each representing the sex of the child requested.

However, there was a haunting belief.

If the wish were to come true, the couple must return to the temple every year else the child will die. Minh said many foreigners, fearing the repercussions, did not dare to make the wish. However he said conversely, it is also believed the revisits can be made by representatives or none at all.

At that point, with the ambient light illuminating Minh’s face, he looked like a Messiah.
We prayed.

Dinner

Minh’s parents invited us for dinner where we had fried duck, omelette and beer. Minh’s dad reminded him not to miss the last bus to Hanoi. The whole family, his mum and 2 sisters came out to bid us goodbye. I told Minh to translate to his dad in Vietnamese that he is lucky to have a son like him.

We were worried we could have missed the bus but fortunately we didn’t.

Minh's dad and Minh.

Rushing to the bus-stop to catch the last bus.

Water Puppet Show

I am not one who enjoys live stage performances. I remember suffering in Michael Jackson’s concert years ago.
In Malaysia we have the Wayang Kulit; in the West, Puppet-on-the-String, but in Hanoi they have the theatrical Water Puppet Show.
Well-hidden underwater levers and string manipulate the puppets movements.
It was an amazing work of art and ingenious craftsmanship.

The puppet masters.

We didn’t do enough of city sight seeing. We saw Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body at a close distance. The mausoleum’s security was extremely tight. No cameras, hand phones, bags or objects were allowed.

One-legged/Pillar Pagoda

They make do with what they have and I figured it explains how they had endured the difficult early years where war and turmoil engulfed the country. Minh told us that there is a local saying, “Each Vietnamese received a total detonation of 1000kg of bomb during the Vietnam War ”.

I believe him because in the Vietnam War, the TNT used was more than WW2!

Coming Home

After 8 long days in Hanoi, we arrived KL at 1:30 a.m. Subconsciously we were still keeping a look out for motorcycles when we cross a deserted road. My sister-in-law and her husband took us to a mamak stall in Klang for a dearly missed nasi lemak. It never tasted so good.

Mizuno PaceSetters 10 km

2007-09-09T16:19:00.000+08:00

This is one event I look forward to receive my favourite Mizuno T-shirt. With Mizuno’s generous sponsorship, I feel I should reciprocate their support by wearing their blue T-shirt and of course, my faithful Mizuno shoes.
A good product will promote by itself without the endorsement from famous sports personalities.

Despite arriving rather early at 6:40 a.m, the road shoulder was fast filled with cars. While Mee Peng went to help at the base water-station, I had ample time to do shopping! Bought a Mizuno running shorts for RM40 (usual RM68) and salivated the expensive Finnish SUUNTO outdoor watches that range from RM700 – RM4000!
I must get one of these GPS gadgets one day (hopefully it gets cheaper).

Met Jamie and Kenneth at the starting line. It’s been awhile since I last ran with them. With my measly weekly mileage of 5km per week there isn’t much the body can offer. The only time I exceed a double-digit mileage is when I join the Sunday races.

This year’s participation is a record, well over 2000+ entrants. I started off comfortably but when the hills came, my under trained legs faltered. Walking came naturally on at least 3 occasions. Coming to Kementarian Pertainian, a male runner collapsed and had to be assisted by 4 runners. Tey Eng Tiong was one of the helpers (Tey relayed to me later the runner regained conscious to finish the race).

100 meters from the finishing line, there was already an unusual line of 20+ runners queuing up. I stopped my stopwatch at 1:09:10. As we walk towards the official finishing line, an official stood up from his chair, franticly punching the laptop’s numeric keypad to record the runners’ bib number.

Perhaps, Pacesetters could do a post-mortem on how to cope with the increased participation of this magnitude. I am not sure if the photographer was able to capture the photo finishing of each runner.

I went to look for Mee Peng and she appeared to be struggling with the Endurance drink. Some runners thought the Raspberry PowerBar Endurance sports drink was Syrup water! I assisted her as much as I could.

Met Francis Cheng a 72-year-old Marathoner who will be going to the NYC Marathon in Nov 4. It was inspiring to see a man of his age with a physique of an athlete. Inspiring indeed.

After wrapping up at 10 a.m, we were off to a charity event at Taman Tasik Jaya.

Choi, Francis Cheng and Jamie.

The Powerbar drink that many thought was syrup water.

Subang Jaya Run

2007-08-26T15:47:00.000+08:00

This is another race where I bought over the bib from another runner.
Collected the bib from Ronnie’s wife, Rachel at the MPSJ stadium.

I have heard the SJ route is rather flat and many runners have posted PRs in the past. True enough there weren’t many steep inclines and I was generally able to maintain pace.

Towards the last 1-2 km, I stretched my head to look for the stadium “floodlights” landmark. When I finally saw it, I was excited because I had a good chance of finishing a historic sub-60 mins. But alas, the road does not cut into the stadium entrance, instead we had to run past the stadium to make a U-turn at the traffic junction and finally back to the stadium.

Running on the stadium track, about 200 meters from the finishing line, I heard a familiar gun shot, reminiscence of the PJ Half 2004 (I suspect it is the same group of officials!) The 60-minute qualifying time was over.

I finished in 1:00:26. Missing the qualifying time by seconds. This would be my fastest 10 km race. However, a runner GPS recorded the distance to be approximately 9.8 kms which explains the timing. So close yet so far.

Lai and Adam

PaintBall

2007-08-11T12:45:00.000+08:00

Post childhood fantasy relived in the reserved land of Ulu Gombak. I never thought I would fight in the jungles of Malaya.

On Friday night while de-stressing in my living room, Commander Lifemou called at 9:30 p.m. to report for duty next morning.

I never knew there were parks behind Zoo Negara. Isi Rimba was the Paintball service provider.

As debriefed by the organizer, the apparatus was called a “Marker” and not a “Gun” since it is meant to be a non-violent. Originated from cattle owners who used the device to mark their livestocks, it eventually became a game when they playfully start shooting at one another!

Wearing jeans and a collared T-Shirt, I was ready to be peppered and bruised by squashing balls. Newton suggested I be the team leader but honestly I have no idea how to strategize a platoon into combat.

We had a few rounds of combat, one in an enclosed netted arena and the other in the jungle. The arena was quite straightforward, capture the flag in the opposite direction or be shot by the enemy.

I was totally worked out and tensed after the first game. Hands trembling and voice quivering, I took the game far too seriously, as if it was a life and death situation. I settled down after that.
The jungle game play was a disaster as most of us could not see through the fogged goggles. Those who wore spectacles compounded the fogging. I could not see where I was going and end up hiding behind the bush like a helpless sheep.

I risked injury by raising my safety goggles just above my glasses exposing my chin. Used my palm to protect my nose and lips. In this way, I was able to at least see where I was shooting.

In the 6 hours, I was hit thrice: on the arm, direct splat on the front goggles and the most painful on my neck. This was nothing compared to some of the bruises sustained by my braver comrades.

This game is by no means a child’s play. The compressed air propels the spherical dye-filled pellet as far as 200 feet with enough velocity to bruise the skin. There was a case a finger bled. Another hit on the cheek, narrowly missing his eyeball by cms despite wearing the safety googles (?).

I personally felt better safety measures and marshalling should be employed. For instance, anti-fog goggles; gloves, body armour and usage of a loudhailer would have made the game a far more enjoyable and less painful experience.

Overall, it gave a perspective of how soldiers had to contend with fear, fatigue and trauma in a real battlefield.

Thanks to Lifemou for the invitation - to flashback my childhood thrill.

NPE Adidas King of the Road Run

2007-08-05T21:50:00.000+08:00

NPE Adidas King of the Road run was held in front of Sunway Pyramid. I bought over somebody’s 10km Men Open bib and later exchanged it with my cousin Jo Ee who was wrongly registered in the Veteran category by his friend.

It was good to race 10k again. There is less risk of aggravating my injury sustained in the Seremban Half. Jo Ee and his group of friends helped to swap and pin our bibs just mins from the start.

YB Datuk Samy Vellu flag off the start. Boy, his belly must be at least 40”. I can’t help but wondered whether YB will charge the runners toll at the plaza.

After making the 5km U-turn, I gave Jo Ee a yell from the opposite direction. Exiting the tunnel, I pushed the last 100 meters to the finish with a time of 1:01:50.
Position: 120th + medal.

My 2 nieces age 11 and 7 came to watch his Po-Dei (Uncle in Hainanese) in action and were getting really bored until Spiderman appeared.

The younger one complained it was “raining”; actually it was the trickling sweat from runners that was splashing on her! Surprisingly, they said they wouldn’t mind waking up early again to witness the race event.

Seremban Half Marathon

2007-07-15T21:43:00.000+08:00

Pre-race winners?

It is intriguing to run an unknown route where one does not know what lies ahead. On Saturday afternoon I decided to run this event with Ben Lim after TM Wong offered us 2 spare bibs. It’s been years, since I last visited Seremban.

By 6:15 a.m. we were at the Seremban Municipal Hall, ample time before the race starts with Choi, Ronnie, Lai, Ryan, Tey, Geraldine and TM Wong participating as well.

There was no barricade at the starting line. Choi helped me to hand in the registration card. I have not run a distance of more than 7 km since NB Pacesetters 15km. This run will certainly force me to go the distance.

The start was a quiet one with no announcement or speech. Paced with TM Wong and we chatted about hiking. The first 10km was rather flat with many petrol stations offering toilet breaks.

RM1 water

I was puzzled why there were people by the roadside selling water at RM1 per500ml bottle. At the official water-stations, I wondered suspiciously why the “drinking” water was scooped from a large pail (like those used to wash dishes in coffee shops.) and redistributed into paper cups.

Strong sulfuric acid odour permeated the air from the nearby latex producing rubber plantation factories. At one stretch I could smell pesticide spray!

12 km

After making the turn back to town, I struggled to maintain pace on the hilly zigzag road. My left tibia problem had resurfaced. I thought I could get away with it, as it was bearable in GE30k and KLIM07 but not this time.

The pain worsened as the perpetual hills continue to torment. With every 2 kms, my pace dropped from 6.5 to 8 to 9 to 10min/km! I was walking more than running, stopping twice to apply the analgesic cream Counterpain from Red Crescent.

I had thoughts of quitting/DNF as I was afraid forcing it may lead to permanent injury. A major intersection was unmanned and generally there was very minimal traffic control on the road. Some cars whizzed past me just inches away on the narrow trunk roads.

RM2

I have been carrying RM2 in many races and today, for the first time I finally got to use it. At km-20, I went to a Caltex petrol station to buy a refreshing bottle of water. I apologized to the cashier for the sweat drenched 2 x RM1 notes.

With the stopwatch showing past the qualifying time, I tried to run whenever I can. 2 young muscular B category runners were seen walking together in front of me and I wondered what caused them to stop. As I slowly jog past them, one of them uttered it was pointless to run as the qualifying time and medals are over.

Lost

When I finally reach the town area to a T-junction, I had absolutely no idea which way to turn. Where the hell are the Road Marshalls? I asked the schoolchildren which way and they pointed right. Then when I reach the place where we started, again I had to ask for directions where is the entry to the Padang. It was silly probably because I was not a local.

End at last

Tey spotted me walking from outside the fence and called me to run into the Padang. With his SLR clicking away, Ben was waiting for me at the finishing line to go for breakfast. The day before I SMS him he would have to wait 1 hour for me to finish but I manage to reduce it to half-an-hour….hahaha.

I clocked a personal worst of 2:47:46. Despite finishing over the qualifying time, I received a certificate and a quality Selangor Pewter medallion.

I think I would have to lay off 21kms until my mileage and legs strengthen.

Mount Kinabalu

2007-06-27T12:39:00.000+08:00

Nostalgia

After our maiden Kinabalu Park visit in Nov 2003, I had a desire to climb Mt. Kinabalu someday. It was before I pick up running. Back then; we thought the 2 km walk to Mesilau Kipuyut waterfall should not be too difficult until we gave up at 0.5 km of the trail.

4 years ago, giving up at 0.5 km.

I ride on the 3+ years of regular running as a foundation to pursue this dream but it is certainly not the only criterion as climbing attributes differ from running. Attaining a good level of fitness and physical strength alone may not be the passport for success as there are other elements that a hiker/climber has to overcome namely acclimatization and sometimes the unexpected.

The credit from the cancelled BKK Airasia flight due to the coup last Sept was used to book the flight to Kota Kinabalu. Our hearts were set to journey this together, to climb the highest mountain in South East Asia.

Training

During weekends, we have trained in FRIM, Gasing Hill, Batu Caves, Gunung Nuang and Gunung Datuk. The longest trek was 4 hours. I took note of all the advice and pointers from people who had climbed Mt. K.
Read the Mt. Everest disaster book “Into Thin Air” by John Krakauer and surfed “ Everest -Beyond the Limits" website.

While reading a mountain disaster book sounds like a bad idea since it induces negativity but then years ago I read a reverse psychology book that advocates “How to make things better by making it worse”- a paradoxical method of overcoming fear.

Anticipation

I meticulously ran through every possible situation that could go wrong during the climb and tasks that could mitigate it:

· Rain – use disposal raincoat, waterproof shoes and extra socks.
· Cold and wind – wear long johns, gloves and parka/jacket with hood.
· Altitude sickness/AMS headache – carry painkiller tablets (Paracetamol/Panadol)
· Hunger/dehydration – carry bananas, chocolates, nuts, Powerbar, gel and Endurance drink.
· Insect bites/cuts/sunburn – insert repellant, antiseptic cream, plasters and sunblock.
· Cramps – analgesic cream Deep Heat.
· Darkness – headlights and spare torchlights/batteries.
· Knee injury – Hiking poles and stick.

Apart from doubting my own ability, deep inside I was silently concerned about Mee Peng’s. I told her not to set our expectations too high as bad weather could prematurely end our mission.

Bags are packed I am ready to go……

We checked into Hotel Daya Kinabalu @ RM132 pernight, right at the heart of KK city on June 22. Visited Sanctuary Sutera office at Wisma Sabah to reconfirm our Mesilau Resort chalet, Laban Rata bunker beds bookings and booked the 2 shuttle tickets from Kinabalu Park HQ back to KK city for June 25.

As this trip was entirely arranged on our own without engaging a travel agent, we were very fortunate the climb date coincide with Tony Lim’s group who arrived a day later. The group leader Peter Lau had 2 extra seats for us in the bus and they too were staying at Mesilau Resort.

A dinner that went wrong.

Tiger fish, clams and snails.

KK is known for its famous seafood. We ate at Sri Selera Kg. Air food court and disaster struck – Mee Peng was hit by severe food poisoning. She vomited and suffered diarrhea the whole night. 3 tubes of Po Chai pills didn’t help.

Cultural show at Kg. Air food court
Next morning 6 a.m we went to a nearby 24-hr Polyclinic but the medication could not stop the diarrhea. Peter’s group was scheduled to arrive and pick us up at around 9:45 a.m. We made a revisit to the same clinic at 9:30 a.m that referred us to the Head Physician.

I explained our predicament that she will be in a bus ride for 2.5 hours and would she be medically fit to climb the next day. Dr. Jeremiah smiled “Yes, she can climb. It is only a stomach upset” and prescribed a dose of 5 tablets.

Joining the Group

While we were in the clinic Tony and Peter called and I told them of our situation. They told me not to worry and soon we joined their group of 28 trekkers in the coach. Tony and his wife Kim were the only people we know in the bus but we soon made friends with the rest.

Oh NO!

As I got acquainted with the person next to me Gary, I realized to my horror I left my 2 digital cameras inside the bag which was stored in the Hotel store room! I agonized over my absent-mindedness and attributed it to nursing Mee Peng the night before. Usually she would organize the packing but that night she was totally knocked out.

Kinabalu Park

We arrived at Kinabalu Park HQ for our shuttle transfer to the 2nd entrance Mesilau Park. Mee Peng was still throwing up and purging.

The shuttle van stopped by Kundasang village, a place famous for its vegetables and fruits. I bought 2 combs of banana for RM3.

Upon arrival at Mesilau Resort Park, we checked into the private St.John’s Peak chalet/bungalow, which was completely surrounded by thick tropical rainforest. It was a perfect place to rest and focus on her recovery.

Even if we couldn’t climb the next morning, staying here alone was already bliss. At 2000 meters above sea level, the pure clean air smelled of nothing but wood and a freshness that is unparallel to Peninsula Highlands. A cute squirrel greeted me at the entrance as if to say, “ Welcome to the Land Below the Wind. Don’t worry everything will work out fine”.

The Recovery

Tony Lim was so kind to drop by to pass us some Milo powder.
I fed Mee Peng with hot milo, oral hydration pack and chicken essence cordyceps between her naps. Her vomiting finally stopped.

Climb Day

By morning she looked stronger but the purging was still rampant. Since she had no appetite to eat anything solid, I took the gamble of passing her half a PowerBar. The night before she told me that I should go ahead and climb alone if she doesn’t improve. I said I would never leave her alone.

Peter reassured us there are flush toilets along the way at every km. That is positive news and with that we decided to ascend.

The Gate

The Koreans at Mesilau gate .

We engaged a guide, compulsory requirement by the name of Jasirin aka Gungdus. Gungdus, aged 42, has a physique of a stout body builder with a serious look. He also double up as a porter where I passed him a 7kg backpack. Each kg cost RM8 to carry to and fro Laban Rata.
Mee Peng and I carried a 3 and 6kg backpack respectively.

While Peter and Tony’s group were assembling for briefing, I informed them we are departing first and hope to meet them along the way.

With the backpacks lifted to our back, we were ready to ascend. After a few hundred meters, Mee Peng’s bag was weighing her down and I took over her bag.

KM 0.5 revisited.

We reached KM-1 in 54 mins. While I relished each km gained, Mee Peng was “racing” to visit the next toilet ahead. She made no less than 6 toilet breaks sometimes in embarrassing audible reverberations that can be heard from the nearby gazebo where trekkers rest.

Peter and a few others soon caught up with us. I offered bananas and we helped each other to snap photos. Grace a runner who trains daily by climbing 12 flights of stairs in her KLCC area condominium was in good form.

Gungdus collected rubbish even as small as sweet wrappers along the trail. That prompted us to do likewise. The locals believe they have a responsibility to keep the holy mountain clean and presentable to tourists. This is something urbanites can learn and emulate.

KM-3

My Timex stopwatch showed 2:21 hrs. I thought it was good progress covering sub-60 mins/km. We passed the Kipuyut suspension bridge and a series of steep steps awaits us. My right thigh began to stiffen and I knew a cramp is imminent. I immediately applied Deep Heat as richly as possible and massage the affected area.
This part of the muscle never gave me trouble in the past during running!
For the next 3kms the cramp lingered.

Cool forest with occasional drizzle

Wild herb

In one of the rest breaks, Gungdus plucked a few long leaves from a wild plant and said this could cure stomachache. Sensing our doubt, he took a handful and chewed the leaves. While preparing to eat some myself, I told Mee Peng in Cantonese “don’t eat too much first” since we do not know the side-effects. The leaves tasted bitter.

KM-5

We reached the km-5 pondok, a favourite spot for trekkers to break for lunch and congregate. Chatted with Tony and Ben from Klang. Tony offered Mee Peng the potent Thai anti-diarrhea powder of which she consumed without hesitation.

Ripped opened the Vanilla Powergel and shared it with Mee Peng. By now I have finished all the 15 small bananas, Kit-Kat, Cadbury Timeout, Kandos and 4 bottles of 500ml PowerBar Endurance drink that I have rationed for this leg of the climb.

We have trekked for more than 5 hours. The flora has changed to mossy low stunted plants. Though it was 2pm, the thick clouds had completely blocked the afternoon sunrays. The misty trail has a certain dreamy mystique aura like excerpt from a childhood fairy-tale storybook.

Km-5 no sun just mist and mossy plants. Gangdus and Mee Peng trekking ahead.

Earlier, Peter had hinted the weather doesn’t look good and indicated it may rain. His observation was a revelation.

Layang-Layang junction

This is where the shorter original route from Timpohon Gate meets the Mesilau Trail. Just before we reach this turnoff, it started raining, not just rain but heavy rain!
Peter had predicted correctly.

Hiking on a “Waterfall”

It could not come at a worse time because from here it was the start of a very steep uneven rocky ascend to Laban Rata. The stream of water and mud that came gushing down from the slopes like a waterfall was a shock to us!

It reminded me of the movie “Romancing the Stone” where Kathleen Turner and Michael Douglas struggled in the torrential jungles of Columbia.

I told Mee Peng we were lucky to have had bought the waterproof shoes but that virtue soon dissipated. The rain was so heavy that the water started seeping into our shoes through our socks and soon our shoes were soaked inside – so much for waterproofing.
I lamented whether a high ankle shoe would have made a difference.

Applying Deep Heat to my troubled thigh proofed futile as the splashing rain easily washed it away. Inexplicably, the cold weather somehow helped to cool down the convulsive muscle area and eventually it was cured!

The simple Poncho disposal raincoat was an indispensable heaven created clothing that not only shielded us from the wet and cold but was also large enough to cover the backpacks as well.

Mee Peng praised the Made-in-Germany telescopic Leki Hiking poles, which I borrowed from Rohaizad. The 2 poles acted like 2 extra feet and it help her tremendously from slipping in the wet as well as alleviate her weakened condition. Rohaizad was so generous to loan us the poles despite not having used them himself.

As for me, I had earlier bought a RM3 rubber wood stick that function to relieve stress on my back and knees. These are necessities especially for first time climbers.

It rained for 3 hrs.

Somewhere at km-7, giant looking bonsai plants surrounded the trail. I saw Choi’s favourite tree and Ben Lim’s Indiana Jones ridge.

From afar, we could see streams of water flowing down beautifully from the gigantic granite mountain. On the other side of the ridge, the farming villages of Kundasang can be sighted.

Streams of rainfall water flowing down the mountain. A magnificent sight.

The scenery changes by the seconds as the fog moves rather swiftly hindering panoramic views. By the time I took out my slide loaded Canon A2 camera, the view was gone.
With our raincoats on and rain pouring, it was a hassle to remove the SLR for a shot.

8 hours ….

I was feeling extremely hungry when Tony effortlessly caught up and informed us the Laban Rata Restaurant closes at 7p.m. He is forging ahead to order the food first. I jokingly told him I was so hungry I could eat a cow but ordering half-a-cow would suffice.

Laban Rata (3272 meters/ 10,700 feet)

Exactly 10 hours on my stopwatch, we finally reached Laban Rata in the almost dark dusking sky. It was a few minutes to 7p.m. I jubilated the completion of the first leg of our climb.

Our record hike of 10 hrs. Photo taken just behind Laban Rata.

The temperature at the entrance displayed 12 degrees Celsius. Peter and a few others greeted and congratulated our arrival. I was totally exhausted and hungry to the point of insanity.

Thankfully the restaurant was still opened. Advised Mee Peng to take off our wet shoes and socks to prevent blisters.

Walking barefooted, I took the RM33 buffet and whacked the beef for protein. Not much food left and the chef is not replenishing the dishes.
Mee Peng still could not eat a full meal.

After filling our stomachs and chatting with Peter and Ivan, we checked into our room upstairs consisting of 5 sets of double-deck beds. To my surprised, the occupants in the room were already in bed! It was 8:10 p.m.

I tried not to be intrusive as I gently opened the noisy plastic bags to prepare for shower. Laid the shoes and insoles next to the heater, hoping they will be dry by tomorrow. Went back downstairs to the reception to enquire if they sell/rent slippers and luckily the storekeeper had a few used ones, which he obligingly loaned at no cost.

I was advised to have the shower early in the common washroom as the hot water here can run out abruptly. Yes, the hot water was almost gone but it was bearable. I wore my newly purchased long johns and my faithful 21-year-old Adidas jumper.

Sleep is difficult

I quietly tipped toed to my upper bunker bed and was relieved to lie on my sore back. Indiglo-ed my watch and it read 8:40 p.m. Set the alarm to 1:15 a.m., closed my eyes but I could not sleep. Was it the coffee and tea?

By midnight, I was not sure if I fell asleep because I simply kept hearing noises from the wooden walls/walkway, coughs and snoring from room-mates. Watch showed 12:15 a.m, changed the alarm to 1:40 a.m.

1:30 a.m

I decided to get up and that prompted everybody in the room to get up from their beds as well.
Apparently, as I recount later, many of them could not sleep too!

Checked my shoes, alamak! Still wet.
Mee Peng had already gone downstairs to order buffet breakfast while I tried to figure how to dry the shoes quickly.
Since there were no newspapers, I grabbed a stack of serviettes and stuffed them into our shoes to absorb whatever liquid left. It worked.

Adidas Kampung

A lady from Penang who was observing my antics told me I should buy the RM5 local made “Adidas kampung” shoes, which provide better grip, instead of spending hundreds of ringgit on branded trekking shoes.

She said the branded shoes were useless! I asked her to show me the sole of her beloved shoes, it had studs similar but shorter than those found in soccer boots.

Guides wearing the "Adidas Kampung" shoes. Observe the studded soles.

The Summit Trail

After hearing from a few people how cold the final Summit Trail could be, I wore 2 T-shirts, an orange Schwarzenbach jacket over my Adidas jumper.

The RM15 water-resistant gloves were completely soaked from the previous day’s rain. Luckily I brought another pair of acrylic gloves as spares.

We left around 2:45 a.m. There were already scores of trekkers beaming their headlights like “Cyclops” in the dark. I notice the Caucasians wore smaller headlights that produced more directional and brighter lumens than our “pasar malam” China-made ones.

20 minutes into the ascent I was already feeling hot. I have over-cloth myself! Peter’s group was nowhere to be seen probably way ahead. I took deep breaths and stop for breaks as often as possible.

From as far as the eye can see, the string of lights illuminated by the scores of climbers was like a silent ritual procession. The local KandazanDusun believe the mountain is the resting place of their dead ancestors soul. The tribe believes the spirits dwell among the forbidden peaks.

After the relative easy part of multiple stairs walking, the woods disappeared and came the challenging rock section with rope.

Granite all the way….

I remember my office colleague Wong Siu told me he used the “Spiderman” technique to tackle this sector. The degree of ascent could be as much as 45%, it was synonymous to placing a plank on a stairway and walking on it using a rope as leverage.

The gloves not only provided warmth but also protection from the abrasive rope.
It wasn’t too slippery as the rock surface was rough and our Timberland and North Face shoes held well.
I reminded Mee Peng should we fall, we should lie flat on our tummy with our limbs clinging to the surface to immobilize inertia.

This had to be the highest degree of difficulty because to pull our bodies upwards, bursts of energy were required. Occasionally, I crawled using Wong Siu’s method.

Despite the nearby dark cliff, I did not feel it was too dangerous as a number of Guides coolly walked upright on our side supplementing the torch lighting where necessary. They were totally unperturbed by the dangers.

Came to think of it, it was kind of silly having to crawl like a toddler when the Guides took it like a Walk in the Park!

The Stillness of the Night

Mid-way I stopped to look back; I could see the lights from the foothills of Kundasang town. At eye-level the infinite non-blinking stars spread across the vast universe like I have never seen before.
The sky was cloudless; we were at level with the sky.

I was 12,000 feet above sea level and was rather pleased I had no symptoms of altitude sickness.

Sayat-Sayat Hut

We registered our names at the last pondok, Sayat-Sayat counter and from here onwards it was a safe but arduous 1.7 kms incline to Low’s Peak. The massive granite slabs stretched endlessly almost like walking on the moon’s surface.

This was the part where Ben Lim told me he has to stop to catch breath for every 10+ steps gained before going for another set of 10+ steps.
He was absolutely right.

As a runner, I thought I could sustain a continuous walk but not here, where the mountain rules.

South Peak

Donkeys Ears

I was surprised some climbers were already hurriedly making their way back even before sunrise – the pinnacle spectra. They do not look sick.
As dawn came, the shadows were replaced by the glow of the South Peak and Donkeys Ears appeared on our flanks.

Sun rise between St. John's and Low's Peak

Surprisingly, we saw rodent-like creatures scurrying between cracks in this non-habitatable zero vegetation land. Perhaps, they survive on the daily disposal of human food crumbs?

After passing the majestic South Peak, I could see the famous Low’s Peak about 600 meters away. Gungdus knowing that we would be slow went to join his group of friends for a chat.

Low’s Peak

I took out my camera from my bag, went up to him, told him to take care of my backpack and wait for me here while I make the assault to the peak.

I should have known better not to instruct a person who lived all his life in a territory home to them but a mystery to first time explorers.

Mee Peng made friends with everybody who was like us struggling to reach the foot of Low’s Peak. Soon Gungdus appeared carrying my backpack and followed Mee Peng guiding her through the steps. I guess he had a call of duty to look after us.

Mee Peng's new found friend, a photo enthusiast and half-marathoner.

Ears ringing…

I was about 15 meters behind them when my ear and head started humming and ringing. I thought this is normal since I suffer from permanent tinnitus. Unconsciously, I was losing my balance and attribute it to the uneven surface.

Low's Peak in the background. Many tail-end climbers gave-up and turn back here.

Gungdus had been observing me and advised Mee Peng to convince me that I do not summit the peak. “Kalau tak boleh, Jangan Paksa”. He also told her if I did, I would have trouble descending later. He offered to climb alone and help to take pictures from the summit on our behalf.

Mee Peng said my face looked green and lips pale. Gazing at the wedge shaped Peak, it looked intimidating enough to quit and turn back.
Gungdus looked at me and asked “Macam mana boss?”

Speechless, I raised my arm to point at the summit. This is the first symptom of…

AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness)

Gungdus had no choice but to ascend the steep Low’s Peak with Mee Peng. I told them to go ahead while I gingerly pace my climb. By now, my breathing and vertigo were building up.

Assault of Low's Peak. Mee Peng and Gangdus far ahead.

A couple in the 50s who was coming down gave me encouraging words to keep going. Mee Peng had reached the peak and was forming a cheering Malay group to spur me on.

“Lor Kong (hubby), you can do it!” shouted the Malay lady mimicking Mee Peng.
“Cheah Yew (more oil)! Cheah Yew!” yelled the Malay guy.

Finally, I summitted Low’s Peak (13,436 feet/4095 meters) at around 7:50 a.m. I took out Terence P6 bib and said in my heart “Terence this is for you though you may not know me”

After a series of photos, all of them descended. I was the last man on the peak. I thought about Terence and

I cried….

I do not know him in person and neither does he know who I am but I do know he is a jovial and friendly guy who despite his illness lived Life to the Fullest when what many normal healthy people fail to do and cherish. (Terence Leong aka Penguin 6 had brain tumor and succumbed to his sickness on June 8, 2007)

Left view from Low's peak.

Gangdus preparing to descend.

Last Man

At the peak alone, I could see trekkers like ants making their way back to Sayat-sayat. I used the abseiling method to go down, stopping immediately the moment I sense I was losing balance.

I am the King of the Mountain......help!!

St. John's peak. Do you see the rear neck and shoulders of a Gorilla?

St. John's peak from another angle. Now do you see the monkey face?

AMS accentuating

Back to the main trail where now it is the reverse steep rock descent, I found I had trouble walking downhill and withholding my momentum. I was behaving deliriously like a drunkard – denying I was abnormal and impeded speech (classical signs of AMS).
Gungdus and Mee Peng began to worry about my condition.

Mee Peng later told me I walked with my hands slightly apart from my waist, side stepping erratically and wobbling – like a Penguin.

Gungdus kept coming back to aid me but I told him I’m ok and he should take care of Mee Peng. He is confused because Mee Peng on the other hand had been telling him to take care of me.

Fighting back…

At this stage, I acknowledge I was hit by altitude sickness and adopted the rest and walk strategy. I controlled my vertigo by seating 1-2 minutes to overcome the dizziness. I could feel my BP and heartbeat rising each time I got on my feet.
At one point, I laid flat on the rock where there is not a single soul out there since I was the last human on the plateau!

I reached Sayat-sayat gate and drank the refreshing sweetish spring water. The 2 officials were waiting for me to close the gate. I took some chocolates and regretted not bringing a Powergel.

After 10 mins rest, Mee Peng and Gungdus went ahead and unknown to me she had asked the 2 officials to guide me down. I thanked them profusely as both of them followed me throughout the most difficult segment of the rope-cliff area.

The 3 rescuers (I called them pasukan penyelamat....they laughed!). They call AMS "Mabuk Gunung" (Mountain Drunkness)

Severe AMS hit me when I was walking the easier stairs/steps back to Laban Rata. I nearly threw up but managed to hold back.

Gungdus waited for me patiently and in the end I made it back with Peter’s group waiting at the main entrance.

11:40 a.m.

By now, there was no way to make it back to Kinabalu Park HQ by 3:30 p.m for our coach back to KK. Gungdus had already planned and gave me 2 options:

a) Stay overnight and trek down next morning at 2 a.m.
b) Trekked down now and reached HQ around 7-8pm.

I rested one hour and made the decision to trek down the same day. It was time to maximize my carbo and vitamin loading to replenish the lost energy. I ate a bowl of Meehoon soup, Powerbar, multivit and cordyceps tablets.

1:20 p.m.

After shaking hands and exchanging goodbyes to Ivan and the rest of the girls, we finally left Laban Rata and made our move to descend. Peter’s group is staying another night in Laban Rata.

Mee Peng had passed me the 2 Leki poles of which I maximize the length to around 5.5 feet. Wong Siu had tipped to use the poles as brakes.

After 10 minutes I was relieved I had no recurring symptoms of AMS or drowsiness. I have acclimatized. We met a lot of friendly people from the opposite direction who stopped for a chat. A few congratulated us.

I was enjoying the conversation with the various nationalities when Gungdus said we would reach Timpohon Gate around 8-9 p.m. Literally hinting we have to stop taking the longer than necessary talk breaks.

Worried

One of the veteran guides who was accompanying a Canadian dual told me, even for guides it is ‘merbahaya” (dangerous) to trek in the dark at night on the Timpohon Gate trail.

I did not ask him what danger lurks in the dark (Wild animals? Supernatural? Weather? Terrain?) but upon hearing his comments, both of us got worried and began to increase our pace and cut down on our breaks.

After 3 hours…

We passed the Layang-layang/Mesilau junction and continued into the Timpohon trail, which looks much easier, something similar to FRIM or Gasing Hill. Another 4 kms to go and the oxygen has increased to yummy levels with the reemergence of rich green forestation.

Mee Peng and Gungdus were surprised and chuckled how much I have recovered. I was running high on adrenalin and going at a race’s pace!
I used the poles to good effect, to alleviate my knees as much as possible.

About 2 kms to go, we heard thunder and thick fog enveloped the forest. We knew it will rain anytime and it was getting dark. Fortunately the path was getting flatter and less tricky.

Mee Peng asked me not to remind her of any pain when I told her my forefoot appears to be forming blisters because she too had to contend with the same soreness.

0.5 km to go..

and it RAINED!

We quickly took out our raincoats and torchlights. It was pitch dark, foggy, raining and muddy. I had visibility issues because my glasses were fogged and the bluish white LED headlight was not effective on misty conditions. My astigmatism compounded to the problem. Mee Peng took the lead while Gungdus stayed between the 2 of us to provide light.

7:05 p.m.

After 5 hrs 34 mins we finally made it to Timpohon Gate. Again we were the last hikers. The Park Ranger waited patiently for our arrival before closing the office for the day.
It was a great relief.

Gungdus had arranged transport for us to return to KK city. We took a shuttle van from the gate back to the main Kinabalu Park HQ entrance, a distance of about 5 kms, where a cab awaits us.
When we were in the van, I confessed to Mee Peng what happened at the peak. She told me she cried too.

We had a dispute with the cab driver on the fare. Eventually we relented.
The cab driver, with his wife beside him, drove at breakneck speed like a man possessed.
We closed our eyes; prayed nothing untoward would happen and slept.

We reached Hotel Daya Kinabalu in 1.5 hrs at about 9pm. Tony called to check if we were ok. After having Klang Bak Kut Teh for dinner, we tucked into the cosy bed and slept like babies.

Klang Bak Kut Teh for the "Sour Legs"?

The next morning, to our delight we suffered minimal muscle aches and more importantly no injuries. We made it in one piece.

The first remark I made when I got up was “I want to go back there again”.

Retrospect

I have always marveled in admiration trekkers who make it an annual affair to visit Mt. Kinabalu. It was the toughest thing that I have ever done in my entire life.

In the span of 34 hrs, we trekked a total of 25 hours covering 19 kms, ascended 2095 meters and descended 2234 meters. Both of us lost 2.5 kgs.
The total trek time was way above the expected norm probably due to our ailments.

Towards, the last km, Gungdus, (already a grandfather!), told me he had never been to KL. He made an honest living by helping trekkers to achieve their dream, aspiration and self-discovery. Perhaps he has a dream too to visit KL someday, to view the KLCC Twin Towers. I wish him well from the bottom of my heart.

Ultimately, the objective was to summit the peak but it was not the pinnacle of this trip. The sentiments I value most was when I came back to KL!

Back home…

Walking on a flat surface and be transported by a vehicle never felt so comfortable. Eating whatever and whenever I want when my stomach growls was something I took for granted in the past. Meeting strangers, new friends and friends who had helped and advised us along the way are memories that we will forever be grateful and thankful.

It felt good to be home…… to feel a sense of change.

Mee Peng said “ I will never ever forget this experience”.
Indeed, it was an incredible journey fulfilling the dream of ordinary people questing for the extraordinary.

NB 15km Pacesetters

2007-05-20T18:54:00.000+08:00

Race Eve: Volunteers preparing the PowerBar Endurance "teh tarik" drink.
The operations ran with clockwork efficiency.

The Endurance drink was repacked into drinking water bottles and stacked on the pallet.
Initially, I thought the pallet was for the fork-lift but it was just to elevate the boxes to higher platform, as a prevention from rain. Incidentally, this contingency proved to be a hindsight as it rained cats and dogs later in the evening flooding the tent area!

Mee Peng packing the goodie bags.

Captain Ronnie with the heaps of medals.

Jln Sultan Salahuddin

The waterstation ladies.

I finished the race in 1:36:40. 3 minutes slower than last year. Almost overslept in the morning.

Good to see Rohaizad back in action.

Long time no see Justin. Seems eager to eat
my cendol....

Myself, Choi, Adam, Kevin and Justin.

My ex-lunch partner colleague, CS Wong who came as a volunteer cameraman.

CS's Nikon D200, f2.8 70-200mm VR lens. Superb camera.

The one and only running DSLR cameraman, Tey Eng Tiong.
Randomly captures midst of actions where nobody dares.

Thank you Mr. Tey for being there taking the best shots.

PaceMakers group.

Orange Run

2007-04-15T22:22:00.000+08:00

Last year's Orange Run Kenny overslept but this time round he was not only ready waiting at the gate but brought his 15-year-old daughter Jessica along. I still remember feeding Jessica when she first learned to walk and today here she is doing her first 10km race.
How time flies.

7-month-old Jessica.
Taken with Canon EOS 1000F.
Nov 26, 1992.

Kenny was keen to run again after skipping KLIM due to health reasons. His last race was the Selayang Run sometime late last year.

I find this race route more undulating than Bukit Tunku’s double hill. Last year I was caught surprised by the multiple slopes. I finished in 61:50 mins, shaving off 3 mins from last year's time.

Adam and Tey

Mee Peng accompanied Jessica walking mostly only to finish without being given a goodie bag. According to the organizer, it was past 'qualifying time'. I don't recall reading there was a qualifying time as this was supposed to be a Fun Run.

A senior Pacesetter committee member was seen protesting this issue on behalf of a group of disgruntled senior women veteran participants to the organizer. The female organizer relented and gave out the Santa Barbara orange backpack to them as well as to Mee Peng and Jessica. I could see there were still stacks of boxes of bags inside the truck. Why do they want to keep the remaining?

A goodie bag is a token of participation. Though it should not be perceived as such, it is a form of incentive to encourage more sedentary people to join healthy events. On the other hand, I must applaud the sponsor for their generous contributions.

KL International Marathon 2007

2007-03-18T17:38:00.000+08:00

The Decision:

Few days before CNY, my brother Kenny announced he had been diagnosed with hypertension with a reading of 210/110. He is the 4th member in our family to inherit this silent disease.

2 years ago, based on my family’s medical history a GP cautioned there is a high possibility I may develop this disorder later in life. His prognosis proved true for Kenny. I now remain the last member of the family to face this genetic prophecy.

With that thought, I made up my mind to register for the KLIM Full Marathon. Actually, it was the heart that made the decision.

Preparation:

The single most important training, which I dread most, is the Long Run. After GE30k race, I managed to squeeze a 17km and 19km run during CNY.
While relatives were busy gambling into the wee hours in the morning, I slept early to get up early next morning to run.

I did a few shorter distances: 12km, 10km, jungle trail, hill-hiking and light gym workout. During working days I continued the daily morning exercise of climbing 4 flights of stairs. I kept my legs moving, tiring them constantly without subjecting them to injury.

A week before the race I slowly taper off.
4 days before the race, I completely stopped running to rest the legs.
2 days before the race I ensured I get adequate sleep of at least 9 hours per day. Avoided oily food and tea/coffee (otherwise I will sleep less because of the caffeine).
On the eve, I minimize walking to preserve the glycogen in my legs.

Pre-race jitters

Despite all the counter measures, I was still very nervous going into the starting line. I knew the LSD was simply not enough. I could still back out and opt for the shorter 21km or 10km distance since I had the spare bibs. But I have never back out in a race that I have registered. I had to appease the soul.

A Plan

As a teenager I remember reading a chess book that says, “A plan is better than no plan”. Analyzing my GE30k race data, I predict I could probably reach the 30km mark in 4 hours. That leaves a balance of 2 hours to cover the remaining 12kms, which translates to a 10min/km pace.
Possibility:
1st 10kms - 1:15 hrs;
2nd 10kms - 1:20 hrs;
3rd 10kms - 1:25 hrs;
Next 6kms- 1hr;
Last 6kms - 1 hr.
------------------------
Total 42kms = 6 hrs.
------------------------
This will just be a plan. I kept in mind I should not pressure myself into meeting the checkpoints if the body cannot sustain it.

Race Day

I had a strange dream when the alarm clock rang at 2:40 a.m. I dreamt I was with an old good friend discussing a crisis. Breakfast is pretty much the same: Powerbar, skim milk with light cereals, banana, Cordyceps, multivits and spirulina. Wore my faithful Mizuno Precision 5 and BUM socks. Over the 3 years of running, I have purchased 16 pairs of the same kind of socks.
Mee Peng insisted I wear her amulet for safety.

Survival kit
3 packs of Deep Heat, 1 Powerbar, 2 packs of PowerGel, 1 mini chocolate bar, 2 ringgit and 500ml Gatorade.

Before leaving the house, out of curiosity of my anxiety, I quickly strapped myself to measure the BP.
It read 157/92!
No turning back now!

An Experiment ahead

I arrived at Dataran 4:10 a.m. Decided not to carry the hand phone as an SOS device. The limited mobile toilet queue was as usual long. I was not going to wait, went down the ramp that leads to Sg. Gombak and contributed the flow of the river.

Met the experienced Marathon veterans TM Wong and Choi who reassured me to be calm and run at my own pace as everybody’s speed is different. Tey, the running cameraman took a photo of us. He was carrying an armada of foodstuff in his pouch. It is always inspirational to meet this bubbly man.

4:30 a.m

I started my stopwatch as soon as the gun went off. It took less than 60 secs to cross the magnetized starting mat. Chat with Dinesh and soon he and Tey took off. Everybody seems to be taking their time unlike in a 10 or 21km race. I carried half a bottle of Gatorade in my hand.

Somewhere at km-4, a runner came up to me to pass a PowerGel, which I’ve unknowingly dropped from my back pocket. Thanks to him else I will be short of fuel!

The DBKL water-tanker that was stationed at the sponging stations was a good hideout for a leak.

After km-8, I felt warmed up and had an urge to increase pace but abstained. That soon changed, as the 10-km mat seems nowhere where it should be last year. I speed up just a little bit. Finally the 10km signboard appeared followed by the mat. I clocked 1:18:40. Slurped a Powergel and drank my Gatorade.

Dump the bottle @ km-12 after finishing the last drop. Felt lighter with the bottle gone. I have never drunk 100 Plus during a race because of the gas. This has to change and I’ve trained to stomach it since drinking water alone may not be wise as it can lead to hyponatremia (low salt levels in the blood), a condition caused by over-hydration of water.

I ripped open the Deep Heat sachet and rubbed its contents to both my legs. It feels good. No contractions as experienced in GE30k. I have practiced this maneuver during training. Stuck with the rule of not trying anything new.

Though it was still early morning with no sun, the weather was humid.
I ran past a bus stop of 30 over people who looked like they just got out of bed. None cheered.
Further down the road, I was “awaken” by a Pan-Asian lady in her 20s, who after getting down from the overhead bridge, started clapping and cheering loudly non-stop. She was the only person cheering after more than 2 hours of running. She could be a runner herself. I smiled and waved to thank her for the support.

Km 20

Reached the second 10km checkpoint with a split time of 1:16:57. Total time 2:35:37. To my delight, I felt fresh and was within targeted time. Had this been a half-marathon race, I would have max out. The slower pace certainly helped.

Running below the flyover joining back Jln Tun Razak I suddenly had a moment of insanity and yelled to myself “I am going to nail this bugger!”
2nd gel consumed and Deep Heat applied. Like a battling WWII soldier I kept 2 packs of Deep Heat inside my socks!

At Jln Bukit Bintang we joined the scores of half-marathoners and 10kmers. Almost everybody whizzed past me. I maintained pace. Somewhere in Concorde Hotel a familiar voice greeted me, it was sifu Jamie! He gave me a thumbs up and sped off before I could think of something inspirational to say. This is the MAN who got me into distance running. If not because of his constant influence I would not be in this race today!

Just before the TAR junction a runner asked, “What are you doing here?” it was Kenneth Teh jesting as he ran past while I was taking a walk drink break. He is about to finish I have another 18 kms to go.

Shortly after Pertama Complex @ Jalan Raja Laut, a voice shouted from behind “Wah Cheong! You so terror one ah! “. It was Tey! I thought he was way ahead. Tey offered me a Powerbar but I politely decline. Looking at the time and distance, he advised me to hasten the pace so as not to “kan-chiong” (hurry) towards the end. It was a valuable tip. Tey was carrying an old injury, which hampered his normal pace. He introduced me to his 2 girl friends both donning the new white Nike Plus vest.

Picture courtesy of Tey Eng Tiong

Observed there were several “working ladies” hanging at the Rumah Tumpangan (Budget Hotel) doorway. Didn’t know they start work so early in the morning.

The Powergel Enigma

Just to strike a conversation, at Jalan Raja Muda I asked a Sikh runner if Powergel is distributed @ km-30 of which he replied no and instead offered me his Powergel. Despite my reluctance he insisted to the point of forcing, that I accept the gel. In the end out of obligation I took it so as not to offend him! He told me it is his 2nd KLIM Marathon attempt, he did not finish the one last year. (Later I found out he completed this race – Well done Mr.Singh!)

No worries – enough drinks to feed a battalion.

My left knee began to give me trouble; the femur seems to be bone rubbing beneath the left lower corner of the kneecap. The discomfort was bearable and not aggravating. I had this same symptom in the GE30k.

Km 30

Powergel was indeed served near the Jln Tun Razak junction. I ran up to Mr. Singh to return his gel but he was adamant that I keep it. The sun was up. I splashed as much water on my face and arms to offset the heat.

The fact that runners did not have to go up the 2 flyovers over at Jln Pahang and Jln Ipoh respectively save us the ascend and exposure to the sun.

Jln Ipoh

The policeman ignored my presence and allowed the traffic to resume at the Jln Ipoh – Jln Tun Razak intersection. I in turn ignored him and walk right into the passing vehicles with my hand raised. Upon seeing this, the policeman quickly re-stopped the vehicles to let me through safely. Runners first please, thank you.

Immediately after crossing the busy Jln Ipoh, opposite Maxwell school, a flashing ambulance slowed down and in front was Dinesh seated on the pavement with 2 runners pulling him up. He appears to be suffering from cramps. I clutched him from behind to help. His determination and courage pulled him through in the end – a heroic feat.

9 km Countdown

After PWTC there was the 9km signboard, which means I have covered 33kms. Time: 4:31:16. The Jalan Mahameru slopes are gradual. Luckily the sunrays were on the opposite side of the road. A few runners spoke to me in Mandarin. One said it is not possible to finish within qualifying time by just walking all the way. “Tway” I agreed with my limited Mandarin.

The Camaraderie effect

At this stage I developed a tendency to befriend strangers many of whom I have exchanged leads. This is something I don’t do in half-marathons. Many of us can hardly sustain a run and the walk breaks turn into short introductory talk break. Indeed the Marathon humbled me.

“Just another few kms to go”. “How many marathons have you run?” I asked engaging in small talk. None of them told me it was their first. One told me it was his 14th.

Soon I was alone, turning into Jln Duta under the flyover I took out the 4th gel which was given to me by Mr.Singh, ate 1/3 of it and threw the rest away as I didn’t like the Tangerine flavour and the overkill 2X caffeine. The gels all had caffeine which is something I don’t cherish taking too much to enhance performance or alertness. My pocket is now left with damped 2-ringgit, a 20 sen coin and a melted mini-Cadbury bar.

Almost there

I made the U-turn at the Jln Semantan flyover to face the final kms.

Perhaps it was the oxygen depletion because I find myself forgetting the names of runners a few minutes after being introduced.
A tanned, well-built senior veteran runner whom I made friends earlier ran past me and said “Common Yong”.
I was not the only one with amnesia.

I remember Ben told me of the uphill ahead leading to Jalan Sultan Salahuddin, which can be daunting. True enough with the sun shining on me I toiled the incline with little speed, trudging for cover under the shades of trees.

After a long gradual uphill passing the Kementerian Pertainian, the magical 40km signboard appeared next to a water station. I have persevered this far and there was a sense of accomplishment.

Last 2 kms with 2 Pacers

Heading towards Bank Negara, it was downhill all the way. I met Mr.Tan Choon Kok from Penang, a senior veteran runner. Mr. Tan asked me to pace together to the finish. He said this was his 7th Marathon. Approaching the BNM downhill I had to drop off due to legs stiffing.

Another familiar looking senior veteran runner came up and I immediately recognize him from last year’s Klang Brooks Bonding Run. He was also the person who helped Dinesh earlier. We shook hands and exchanged pleasantries. He is Lim Tow Suan from the Klang Pacesetters group. Lim said his right arm especially the fingers were numb and attributed it to poor blood circulation. I told him I had the same problem with my left arm a few years ago but with running it improved but not totally recovered.

Lim asked me to jog with him. We chatted and after the Jln Parlimen roundabout I turn on all my reserves. Ran past Mr.Tan. Despite a few hundred meters from the finish line, I had to break for a walk.

At this juncture, I saw somebody waving to me to move forward. It was Choi whom I mistook as Jamie at first, shouted my name. I smiled and ran. I heard more people calling my name and clapping. It was the Pacemaker group who stayed back to cheer for the last men. Captain Ronnie and Rohaizad position their cameras to snap photos. Thanks guys.

Choi giving a high 5.

I was rather flattered by the attention.

Official time :5:54:48.
Net time : 5:53:50

I did it!

Mee Peng grinned with relief that I made this one alive, again. She said a Caucasian whom she aquainted, he too cheered “Good job!”

Mr. and Mrs Tan from Penang. He invited me to run the Penang
Marathon. Next year perhaps? Right photo: Rohaizad and Dinesh.

While driving and resting at home; Kenny, Newton, Jo Ee, Ganesh, Jamie and Ben called/SMS. Thank you fellows for your concern and compliments.

Perhaps the marathon is designed to relate life is not meant to be easy for every journey there is a story. Whatever the outcome it tells something about oneself. It didn’t tell me I was great, it told me about friendship, good friends and people who cared. Now that is great.

What about the BP?

After a cold shower, I once again strapped myself to check the blood pressure and to my astonishment, it read 114/69!
Perfectly normal.
Certainly it was the most heartwarming outcome of my maiden marathon.
The mystery of experiencing the Marathon has been unraveled.

Great Eastern Pacesetters 30km

2007-01-21T21:00:00.000+08:00

I’ve often wondered what would be my physical condition if I were to run beyond 3 hours. Under normal circumstances I will be too indiscipline to try longer distances during weekends. I decided to venture into the unknown with the help from GE’s 30km race.

9 hours before the race, before I went to bed, I surfed the Pacesetters and http://www.runnersmalaysia.com.my/ website to obtain more information about the route, qualifying time and articles related to cramps.

Race Day

To ensure full nourishment I overdose myself with Cordyceps, multi-vitamins, spirulina, 2 teaspoonful of Nestum, a banana and a PowerBar. Luckily the self-formulated and tested nutrient loading didn’t cause any stomach upset.

The response to this event was tremendous judging from the good turn up. My strategy was to run as defensively as possible. You can say it’s a chicken’s run. To slow down whenever there is a slightest hint of leg sprain. I will not force or ignore the signs unlike in shorter distance races. To survive I have to conserve.

I recollect the words of wisdom from some of my fellow runners as an assurance I do not panic at the starting line:

“ Break and tackle 10kms at a time. Once you finish 10 kms, go for the next 10kms” - Machine Man a.k.a. Ben Lim, a sub-4 Marathoner.

“Carbo load and hydrate well” - Jamie, my sifu.

“Walk if you cannot run“ - TM Wong and Francis Toh both veteran Marathoners.

“The important thing is just to finish it. Forget the timing” said Newton especially those doing their first Marathon (though this is not a Full but the same principle applies). These are not just words because he once completed a half-marathon despite suffering injury from the very start, by walking in pain right up to the finishing line, no matter how long it takes. That is pure courage.

Follow the Leader

TM Wong, an experienced veteran runner seemed to have the ideal pace so I followed him as far as I could. We started off together. Wong asked me to go ahead but I told him I would not be going any faster.

After completing the double hill at Tugu Peringatan, the first 10kms with a time of 1:14, my legs felt fine. We ran back to Bank Negara and on the uphill while chatting with Wong about Mt. Kinabalu, my thighs began to stiffen. I told Wong I would be dropping off pace of which he said he would wait for me in front. I told him it was ok to go ahead without me.

The stopwatch showed past 1:30 hrs and I knew I had run past my maximum weekend run duration threshold. I have only covered 12+ kms.

In Hartamas, an Indian man probably in his late 20s muttered some encouraging words “a little more and it is downhill”. Then it was Mr. Singh a tall regular senior veteran runner of which I greeted him “Hello Uncle”.
Bare-footed lady is back displaying superior pace consistency regardless of the terrain.

Towards the end of Hartamas, Francis Toh was manning the PowerBar station distributing Power Gel. I had just consumed the gel I brought myself so the freshly opened pack had to be tucked into my back pocket. The time was 2:27.

After the U-turn, I pretended I had not covered 20kms and tried to run my usual pace. Tried to forget the conservative measures and go into race mode.

For the next km, I was overtaking a number of runners but as soon as the next incline came I fizzle out to a walk. Reality is slowly setting in. There were a couple of tail end runners coming from the opposite direction, who I believe missed the flag-off time. I cheered them up by saying “Alright! You can do it!” Perhaps I was also reminding myself.

Approaching the steep Mosque, super fit Tey came from behind sporting his new Nikon D40 DSLR camera. He said he has already snapped 700+ photos. Tey took several shots of me.

By now, my legs were beginning to falter. For the first time in a race, I asked the Red Crescent volunteer to give me some analgesic cream. I rubbed them on both my knees and thighs.

It felt nothing. 3 minutes later I had a shock. My right thigh seems to be having a seizure! Muscle contraction and twitching as if there were worms inside. I could still walk. The analgesic cream had an effect on it, something I had feared all long because when I apply Deep Heat at home, it had similar but lesser reaction. I took a gamble.

Thankfully, the spasms slowly wore off about 10 minutes and the cream actually had a therapeutic and painkilling properties. At this stage, Tey who was aware of my condition and predicament comforted me by advising me to walk and run only when I feel like it. Tey is a good man. I felt I had a guardian at that time.

After crossing Jln Duta and back to Kenny Hills, my thirst grew. I prayed let there be water available at the water stations since I was the tail end batch of runners. My wish was granted. Not only water was available but Powerbar Endurance drink as well. Yahoooo!!!

I drank 3 cups of Endurance and 1 cup of water. Thank you PaceSetters! You are the only club that ensures all water stations are well stocked unlike some other organizers.

9 out of 10 runners resorted to walking mix with short slow runs especially uphill. We looked like a bunch of refugees seeking divine help to zap us with that one last burst of energy and stamina.

What I did not expect out of myself was that I had to resort to walking despite going on a downhill! The fear lingered on my legs, as I had no control or idea when it would strike with a full-blown cramp. The signs were all there. I had to manage it. An ambulance stopped to give aid to 2 runners who sat next to a drain, one of them shrieking in pain from a severe cramp.

The Last Kilometer

The last stretch, Jln Parlimen uphill back to Lake Garden stimulates euphoria of finishing strongly. I tried to imagine I was doing the start of Rover Track in FRIM. It worked for about a minute or 2, I walked and pick up again. Finally, I ran non-stop from the Lake Club entrance to the finishing line with fellow Pacemaker Tan Boon Seng cheering by the side.

Right after the finish line, I kept walking because I could feel, had I stopped abruptly the cramps would hit me immediately. My thighs were quivering like electrocuted jelly. Fortunately, the convulsions subsided after the warm-down.

It was all over. I survived. I have done it in 3:54:40 well over the qualifying time of 3:45. The last 10km took 1:27. Collected the goodie bag, met up with Choi, Dinesh and Francis. I congratulated Francis for yet another well-organized Pacesetter race.

The first thing I told Mee Peng after the race was that it was “Lor Mang” (Forsake Life). In retrospect, it was exaggerated, but it was a worthy challenge. It opened up a new frontier in running and mind management.
The discovery continues.

Land of Smiles

2006-12-31T00:52:00.000+08:00

“Taksin Hotel?” sniggered the lady Thai immigration officer. After being delayed for 4 hours at LCCT airport we finally arrived at the spanking new Suvarnabhumi Bangkok Airport past midnight. The weather was surprisingly cooling probably below 25 Celsius, much colder than Genting Highlands. The pleasant climate lifted our spirits.

Bangkok's New Airport

Mee Peng’s grandaunt’s daughter (father’s cousin), Mai Gee married a Thai back in the 1960s. We were to stay in her house cum a 120-room hotel in the district of Thonburi. This was not our first visit as we were here before, 13 years ago, back in 1993 arriving by train. I have a vague memory of the place.

Warm Welcome
Despite being very late, 1:30 a.m. the relatives stood by the entrance awaited our arrival like VIPs. We were treated supper. The rest of the days were typically shopping and savoring the abundant host home-cooked culinary delights of various Thai-Hainanese dishes and red wine, every night. The gastronomical overindulgence was remorseful. I try to justify the excess calories by telling myself I will be offloading them come Sunday’s 10km race.
Lumphini Park Run
Got up at 4am took multivit tablets, a banana and a few gulps of water. That was our breakfast. The metered Toyota Altis cab took only 13 mins to reach the park. Called Tiger the race organizer on my mobile but a Thai-speaking female answered. The park was about the size of KLCC Park. There were 10 counters to receive new registrants. We paid 200baths each and received a yellow T-shirt, a colour associated with commemoration of the monarchy. Two large pictures of King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit were erected on stage. Mee Peng seemed to enjoy the faster than usual Aerobics (or was it dancing) followed by the warm down pilate-yoga.

Robinson sponsored useful jumbo size green plastic bags for baggage storage. Saucony appeared to be the main sponsor.
A laced rubber band was issued upon entry to the pen, to be fastened on the wrist as proof of entry. The weather was ideal not too chilly, probably 23C. Due to the temperature I decided to forego the sleeveless NB Pacesetters vest and wore the orange Mizuno T-shirt instead. It would have been nice to advertise the Pacesetters Club.

The race started off by exiting the park to the busy streets. The traffic policemen did a good job considering Bangkok roads are some of the busiest in the world. A female runner ran with her 2 tiny dogs; both had bibs on them!

Km-3 into the race my NB1221 shoes used for the first time in a race felt kind of heavy. The shoes have clocked more than 600 kms, worn primarily for off-road running and hiking. I missed the racy lightweight Precision 5.

The route was completely flat with endless straights. I remember we only made left turns, encircling the city. No slopes, bridges or zigzags to negotiate. At Sukhumvit road, the touristy spots distracted my pacing for a while as I sightsee the area with the elevated Skytrain LRT running in parallel.

All the 3 water stations served icy cold water, some cups with ice cubes! What a cool way to cool down the body. Re-entering the Park, I ran towards the arch and finished in 60:06. This was my fastest 10km race. Perhaps the weather, flat terrain or maybe the actual distance contributed to the result. The golden finisher medal has the picture of King Rama V.

Mee Peng’s account of the race:

“ Shortly after the start, a veteran runner in his 50s or 60s carried a hooter, like those used by the breadman or ice cream seller, started hooting randomly. He spoke to me in Thai. I gave no response. Then he spoke to me in Mandarin “Are you from China?”. I laughed and replied I am from Malaysia. “Malaysia? Yeah, a country that knows many languages”. From then onwards, he paced or rather encouraged me to keep up with him right up to the finishing line. Each time he came up to a runner, he would hilariously squeeze the hooter “Ponk! Ponk! Ponk!” almost like a tuk-tuk driver!
He passed the hooter to me and asked me to try it, which I did.

He also introduced me to his group of veterans all donning their club's blue-white uniform vest and pacing together. They were from the Lumphini Park Veteran Runners Club. Says by running, he does not need to go to the Dr, hospital, medication etc. Running keeps him healthy and he does not time his races. He is a living testimony and a great influence of why people should take up running – to attain a good health. Full stop.”

Mee Peng finished in 1:11:36. I was guilty of not introducing myself to this man for as soon as she finished, she tried to relay her experience to me while I was busy photographing. We later attempted to look for him but could not find him.

Food Galore
More than 40 stalls, cooked hawker food for the participants and also members of the public while stocks last. No coupon is required. Eat all you want. I had fried egg with oysters and mussels, variety of noodles, fried and BBQ meats. I observed the Thais are not litterbugs. They do not habitually litter the compound. This is something all Malaysian runners should emulate – look for a rubbish bin to throw your plastic bottle or plate.
A Photography Agency setup a booth to display all the photos that were
taken during the race, to be embedded on a certificate. Each photo cost 80 baths and the certificate will be posted only to a local address. Since we were from a foreign country, I ask them to copy the photos into my CF card where they will later follow-up with a softcopy certificate sent via email.

We easily found a cab to take us back. Later, more shopping in Platinum Plaza and the Christmas decorated World Center Plaza (this place was bombed 4 days after we left Bangkok).

The next day which was Christmas Day, we were off to Pattaya to visit the Zoos. My 3 nieces had a gala time watching the elephant, tiger, pig and crocodile shows. We also ate crocodile satay @ 20bahts perstick.

Coincidentally, my good old friend, Fook Shing happened to be in Bangkok for work. I invited him over for dinner and to help us finish the 5-litre bottle of wine.

Somebody remarked I went to Bangkok between 2 major incidences: the Coup and the Bombing. Eo Dei (Thai uncle) invited 9 monks to his premises to perform a blessing ritual not only for his family but for us as well. It was indeed very kind of him.

I would like to thank Eo Dei and Mai Gee for their unreserved hospitality and generosity throughout our long stay. Bo Khai (Hainanese). Kawp-Koon Krup (Thai).

Jungle Trails

2006-12-16T05:11:00.000+08:00

There are not many public jungle trails found in the urban Klang Valley that are maintained by the municipals or authorities. While I have yet to climb a mountain, the public parks offer a short excursion to nature, away from the hectic city life. Some of the popular ones I have been:

Forest Reserve Institute Malaysia (FRIM)

FRIM Kepong is one of the best, if not the best place to get your dose of fresh oxygen. An entrance fee of RM1 per person is well worth the money. The Rover Track is very popular with walkers, runners (though the signboard says not safe for jogging) and mountain bikers. This unpaved trail takes you to a waterfall and an option to divert to a climb or hike Bukit FRIM, 1000 feet above sea level. Many Pacesetters members do their hill training on asphalt roads during weekends and late evenings.
The smaller roads are quite free of cars and motorcycles. It is indeed an ideal place to run safely with no sniffs of the toxic carbon monoxide. There is also a canteen and sports centre washroom where you can shower (spring water?) at no extra cost after your workout!

Bukit Gasing

Located near La Salle PJ Section 5 and adjacent to the famous Indian food shop, Rajo. Bukit Gasing showcase some of the oldest bungalows with many renovated to huge modern mansions. Starting from the playground entrance, the trail gives the impression the jungle is deep but it is not really the case.

A steep ascend to the observatory tower provides an unspectacular view of PJ. The trail here is rather narrow. A runner must have good balance and strong knees to stop abruptly to give way to the opposite hikers. Tall hikers have to be wary of the low overhead branches.

The rope section is super steep and may be dangerous if it’s muddy after a downpour. There is an interesting Canopy Bridge unlike any other I have seen. The platform of the bridge is just a single piece of steel cable, no planks. You are practically doing a netted “Rope Walk” on the V-shape bridge. Takes approximately an hour to complete the full length of the trail.

Taman Rakyat – Klang
This recreational park is packed and a favourite amongst the locals
everyday.
In the open field, families, associations and volunteers conduct Yoga, Tai Chi, cultural dances, frisbee, badminton, football, etc. It is truly a public domain park. Majority stays within the main open area and do not venture to the hill.

A telecommunications tower seats at the top of the hill surrounded by trails. The multiple semi-jungle trails (semi because 80% is tarred road) runs like a roller coaster. Do not be alarmed if you end up lost in a Malay cemetery or a dead end because there is not a single signboard to guide you.

Running is possible here and there is a stretch behind the hill, coming from the petrol station entrance is a straight forward 1 km no nonsense uphill road to the peak, perfect for the hill trainee.

Malaysia being a tropical country is naturally a place where foreigners expect to see many unspoiled parks. It never fails to amaze me how thick our rainforest is when the landscape is bird-eye viewed from the plane.

When I first move to my house some 8 years ago, my neighbours chopped down tree after tree as they find the withered leaves a nuisance. Not me. I kept my crooked tree alive.
Today it stands tall and bends as if to say, “I survived”.
So did my 13-year-old “Save Our Forest” T-shirt.

Global Community Day

2006-11-18T23:00:00.000+08:00

Bukit Merah LakeTown
teh tarik fellas.

the treasures..

shila's family was the 4th car to arrive.

This year's treasure hunt was combined with community work in conjunction with the Global Community Day. The hunt ends in the serene town of Taiping at Hotel Legenda. After submitting our answer sheet and treasures, we proceed to the Bukit Larut Orang cacat center. Initially, there were only 10 of us but later the number grew to about 150 staff. Despite the intermittent downpour, the team continued earnestly to mow the lawn, paint and clean the area.

chopsticks technique...

Guna mowing in the rain

the art of high rolling

There was a freak accident. While painting, a volunteer accidentally stepped on the window awning, ripping a hole and falling right through it. In the haste of calling 999, 3 ambulances arrive at the scene. He was fortunate to only suffer a broken shoulder bone with no spinal injuries.

We checked into the Bukit Merah Laketown Resort Apartment and I must say the place has developed quite extensively since my last visit 3 years ago. Large swimming pool, friendly and well-trained staff. The buffet dinner started off rather impressively with the aroma of the smoking BBQ crabs and party looking beer but to my disappointment both vanished before I can lay my hands on them. As usual my 2 good friends came to the rescue: Din and Newton had earlier managed to secure a piece of crab and a can of beer to pacify my aroused appetite.

In the prize presentation, our team “Teh Tarik Gang” took the 5th position in the Open Category and was awarded Isetan vouchers. Thanks to my team members: Din and Riza for putting on a strong thinking cap.

newton and his 2 sons

the champion "Crouching Women Hidden Cucumber"

Next morning just about sunrise, I took a jog around the neighborhood enjoying the scenic bungalows that overlooked the calm lake. Some distance away, a black Toyota Altis flashed its headlights; it was Newton on the wheel looking for a petrol station. Later, we caught up for a buddies chat on the breakfast table.

Global Community Day is a day to remember that there are indeed less fortunate people out there in this world. Any small contribution will mean a lot to them. It’s the little things that move people.

IOI Community Run

2006-11-12T23:13:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Jamie for helping with the registration despite his busy schedule. Most of us join this run partly because of the enticing Travel package lucky draw.

Picked up my brother, Kenny and sped on the LDP towards Puchong. Come to think of it, driving to races is a good excuse to speed since traffic is low. If ever the police were to stop me, I would innocently display my bib and say that I was rushing- perfect alibi. Midway, Mee Peng complained of stomachache (PM1 ailment?) and we had to make an emergency pit stop near the Motorola Bridge Mobil station.

7:20a.m, 10 minutes to go, I floored the Renault towards Bandar Puteri. Luckily, the place was not jammed up and I easily found parking next to a coffee shop. We jogged to the starting line, a good warm-up.

Prior to this run, I postulated Mee Peng could achieve a sub-40 timing judging from her 7km Putrajaya and Rat Race pace. She does not like me telling her what she can attain. I got chided for being analytical and raising the expectation.

My fastest 5.3km was 33 minutes back in 2004 achieved in the wee hours: 3:20 a.m! I last race 5.6km in the JP Morgan Run 2004 clocking 37mins. 5km distance is for the fast and furious.

All 3 of us were doing the 5.5km route. I wore the light Mizuno Precision 5. I thought the route would be rather flat but it turned out to be otherwise. The first 2/3rds were uphill.

There was this slim Indian man probably in his late 50s which I have in numerous other races trailed or ended almost the same timing. I finished just ahead of him by merely a few steps in the NB 15km run but in Putrajaya half he was ahead by a hundred meters. Today we are racing a short 5kms. Never underestimate a senior veteran runner. The old man was flying. I had no answer to his tenacious pace.

I kept up with a fellow runner C107 and later C019 with the intention of overtaking them in the final last hundred meters but today is not my day.
Both finished strongly and very much ahead. I wish to thank them for pushing me to the limits as I crossed the finishing line with a personal best of 29:55 mins.
The Pacemaker gang: Ronnie, Justin, Dinesh, Rachel, Jamie and the rest gathered for a traditional group photo. While I was talking to them, I kept an eye on Kenny and Mee Peng's finishing.

Kenny finished 35:05. Mee Peng astonishingly clocked 35:50 in 22nd position. I did not expect her to run below 7min/km pace. Her Timex stopwatch hung again! I foresee this already and had the contingency plan of leaving my Nike stopwatch running on “Lap” mode to clock both of them.

Wave Technology - Rider 8 and Precision 5

The 10 lucky draw prizes was an anti-climax. The MC announced at least 6-7 names for the Grand Prize but nobody went up the stage to claim the prize. Majority of the runners have left the venue.

True colours won the day.

I am appalled with the MC for addressing the crowd and stage events mostly in Mandarin. This is a public event where there are non-Chinese listeners/runners. The race is called “Community” but it is not spoken in that context.
I hope the organizers would embrace the Bangsa Malaysia spirit next year by using English or Bahasa as the core medium of communication.

Mum turns 70 today. Mum is apprehensive of all her birthdays especially when it involves a cake since dad passed away 7 years ago. The reason? My dad died of stroke the following day after we celebrated his 70th birthday. From her smile, it appears she had expunged her superstitious belief. She loved the delicious fruit flan cake. It was a smile I have not captured for a long time.

Happy Birthday Mum!

Bizarre Incident

2006-10-28T22:40:00.000+08:00

I bought 8 vouchers from one of the Penang hotels located at Batu Ferringi in the recent Matta Fair. My wife’s uncle said he cannot drive long distance and requested I drive his Naza Citra to Penang. Though the Korean engine was a tad rough but the overall ride was good. I suspect the manufacturer origin of this car, KIA sought European engineers to tune its suspension. I had the same feel when I test drove the new 1.4L KIA Rio, a highly under-rated car. The Koreans are coming!

After spending more than a hundred ringgit eating the overpriced char kway teow, chee cheong fun, asam laksa, hokkien mee (prawn mee), oysters and mee jawa at Lorong Selamat, we finally checked into the hotel.

On the 2nd night, sister-in-law (S-I-L) wanted to check out the pasar malam activities towards the end of Tg. Bungah road. I left all of them to wander the pasar malam while I went to an open building area that sold thousands of DVDs. Called Mee Peng on the handphone to inform her of the availability of Korean movie series.

Later she came with her 18-year-old cousin. Not long I received a rather frantic call from my S-I-L asking me where was my wife. I calmly replied she is with me. Not suspecting anything amiss, I continued with my browsing. Within minutes, all of them came to the big DVD shop including my S-I-L’s husband. The moment I saw him, I showed him the 4-in-1 “Faces of Death” dvd (the cover pictured skulls) and asked if he had seen this documentary before.

After we had made our purchase and about to leave, my wife turned to me and asked a strange question “Do you know what happened?”. I replied “Hugh???”.

The story unfolds:

Apparently, earlier S-I-L’s husband received a call from a man’s voice purportedly called from my wife’s handphone claiming that both she and the cousin were accosted and held in captivity!(?). S-I-L’s husband sounded the alarm to the uncle whose daughter was with my wife, and the rest of the family members. They were in deep shock and ran to the dvd shop after hearing I was there.
Fortunately, when they found nothing of that sort happened everybody was puzzled whose voice did he hear on the handphone?

I withheld information…

Prior to this Penang trip, I spoke to one my most trusted friends about the hotel vouchers. My friend wanted to tell me something about the hotel but his wife stopped him from continuing since I have already finalized the hotel bookings. I suspected it had to do with something supernatural. My friend reassured me and said, “You just go and have a good trip”. I did not want to relay this to my wife then.

Once I was back in KL, I called my friend again to ascertain what was the mystery that he was withholding from me. He told me the Hotel that we stayed was once an area occupied by the Japanese Army to conduct executions. It was rumored the “Swimming Pool” is haunted.

My S-I-L’s husband was the only adult amongst the 9 of us who went into the Swimming Pool the evening before the incident.

Chilling revelation or pure coincident?

Blessing in disguise

2006-10-25T16:44:00.000+08:00

My cancelled 2-week mandatory leave brought me luck. A vendor sponsored an RM3K+ ITIL Fundamentals professional certification 3-day course of which I would not have been able to attend had I gone to Bangkok. I took the exam and passed. I last took an official paper qualification test 19 years ago!

Airasia has graciously credited back the unused flight tickets to a special account that must be utilized within 3 months. This goes to show what an excellent company Airasia is. My salutations go to Tony Fernandes and his impeccable team. “Mana Ada Sistem” ought to learn from this customer’s Wow experience.

Had I known the unpredictable corporate audit visit was in the proximity of my holiday timetable I would have rescheduled it. With the inevitable cancellation, I had more time to organize and prepare for the all-important event. It was pure relief when the auditors did not have a single finding on my unit. Failing an ARR audit is a death sentence, literally means you are inept and to be sent to the firing squad.

My father-in-law suffered severe travel sickness when we went up to Fraser’s Hill yesterday. In my opinion, the 31 kms of endless zigzags stretching from Teras/Tranum to Kuala Kubu Baru, is the most winding road in West Malaysia. Things could be worse had he been in the plane.

Potential Runner?

My in-laws cursed the Hill. I lead them to the Jeriau Waterfalls and to our disappointment the water was muddy due to contamination. My brave 6-year old niece, Jing Lin surprised me with her athleticism when she climbed the steep stairs after stairs all by herself and was the first to reach the end of the waterfall unaided ahead of everybody else! Perhaps I can train her to be a runner someday :)

Incidentally, my last visit here was 1979 where my deceased dad drove his 1200cc green Toyota Corolla bringing along his mother-in-law, my maternal grandma. I still remember granny grumbled, “This place is a jungle”.

Fraser’s Hill is not a good place to bring your in-laws!

Coup De Tat

2006-09-20T22:10:00.000+08:00

At 12:15 a.m. the phone rang. We thought we have overslept. The alarm was set to ring at 4:30 a.m., a time we have got used to waking up for races, only this time we were going to Klang to pick up my parents-in-law for our trip to Bangkok.

It was Mee Peng’s uncle who reported there was a major event happening in Bangkok. Disbelieving I log into the Internet. CNN and BBC reported at 10:30 p.m. the Thai army had moved 14 tanks to surround the Government office. Thaksin had declared a state of emergency. I tried going to the Thai newspapers: The Bangkok Post and The Nation but both were inaccessible. Apparently, their local CNN, BBC and Internet access were blocked.

I went back to sleep. At 4:30 a.m. the alarm clock rang. I log into the Internet again looking for updates. A coup had taken place and martial law was declared. At that point, the situation was unclear if Thaksin’s administration was staging any military counter-coup. There was an element of unknown.

After evaluating the risk, I decided to cancel the trip. I went back to sleep again but was interrupted by calls and SMSes from relatives and friends who were concerned about our whereabouts and safety. I also cancelled my 2-week leave and went back to work the next day.

Mizuno 10km and Terry Fox Run 2006

2006-09-17T20:51:00.000+08:00

Wore the silky smooth orange Mizuno T-shirt and by 7a.m I was out of the house. Got off at the National Monument and immediately took a leak next to a big tree. It is now a habit, no need to queue or frantic search for the official bowl. Ecological exchange with the tree, I supply the nutrients in exchange for the oxygen, naturally.

Met Choi, TM Wong, William, Karen and her father. Could not find Jamie and Newton.
While we were chatting, the race started. It was very packed. A middle age runner tripped and fell flat on the ground but luckily he was not injured. The first few minutes of the start are usually the most accident-prone.

Pinup incentive

It’s one of my favorite routes and a repeat of the NB 15km run minus the loop. Route familiarity help, as I know what was ahead. I step a notch faster coming down the gradual Mahameru downhill. U-turn to Kementarian Pertanian and from here I was trailing this group of runners lead by a perfectly shaped and well-tanned lady runner. In fact she has the body of a swimsuit pinup supermodel.

I kept up from behind as I felt I did not have the speed to overtake them. After Tugu Peringatan, it was the nice downhill, all the way. I could see Supermodel and gang have increased pace and soon lost sight of them at the final left turn to Padang Merbok.

Super striding

I thought I have max out but to my own embarrassment and disbelief I had reserves to do a sprint. I lengthened my strides and overtook more than 10 runners including Supermodel to the finish. It was my strongest last 200 meters ending ever. I clocked 1:05:04.

After taking the traditional group photos with the Pacemakers group, Choi, TM Wong and Karen, we walked to Lake Gardens for the Terry Fox Run. Met Ryan who was helping Captain Ronnie to record race results.

Terry Fox Run

While walking to the boathouse, we saw ex-F1 driver, Alex Yoong donned the Terry Fox T-shirt. He seems oblivious to our stares. There must be thousands of participants wearing the white T-shirt with a large number coming from foreign expatriates. Families came in roller blades, bicycles, tricycles, pram, wheelchair, scooter etc.

My bright Orange Mizuno T-shirt stood out in a sea of Whites. A Caucasian obviously found I was not “compliant” came up to me and said assertively “GET OFF THAT T-SHIRT Its about to start!”.

Saya mau makan nasi lemak puas-puas...

We were looking if any of the tents sold T-shirts before going back to the car to get my wallet. When we found it, we sigh with the thought of rushing back to the Bird-park where the car was parked. Luckily Mee Peng bumped into her office colleague who loan us RM50. San Franscisco sponsored the coffee, curry puffs and muffins were simply delicious.

I walked in the entire 3.5km procession. Met Mee Peng who ran, at the end point. We were presented with the Terry Fox certificate. After reading the contents my eyes welled as I now understand what Terry Fox Foundation means to people who had cancer.

Terry Fox said....

“I’m not doing my run to become rich or famous. To me, being famous is not the idea of the run. The only important part is finding a cure for cancer. Don’t forget that. I’m no different from any of you- I’m no better, no worse. You are cheering and clapping for me but if you have given $1, then you are part of the Marathon of Hope. Even if I don’t finish, we need others to continue. It’s got to keep going without me”

It was a meaningful day. It was not a day about racing. It was a day about hope. Terry Fox made my day.

Putrajaya Half Marathon 2006

2006-09-10T20:34:00.000+08:00

I will be expecting the sun to glow; a twisty route and the many steel bridges gleam with pride as I perform my 24,000 strides. I had a relatively longer than expected pre-race night sleep, 6 hours.

Wrong venue

Arrive at the site where I parked last year but was surprised the area was dark with no activities. As we walked towards the bridge, an official told us the venue is further up, at least 1 km away. I began to panic and ran back to my car. Later, Mee Peng relayed to me many runners were caught unaware of the change of venue. A car stopped to offer a runner who had begun running, a ride.

After unsuccessfully locating the carpark, no thanks to poor signboards, I stop in front of half a dozen policemen who were chatting amongst themselves, to ask for directions. Mee Peng took over the wheel, as we knew I would not have time to park. Walk briskly towards the barricade and within seconds, the run started!

At km-1, I saw Choi from the sidewalk snapping pictures. Called him and later he caught up where we paced together for a few minutes before he took off. The early morning weather was cloudy hence we were spared the scorching sun.

Km-10

I was surprised at my pace. I hit the 10km milestone in sub-60 minutes. Have I improved so much? My mind began to wander….

Km-19?

Approaching Dataran Putra I was excited when I saw a signboard that says 39 kms. My stopwatch showed 2:01:16. Breaking my last year’s record was imminent. I looked straight ahead and could see the distant “finishing line”. Then I was caught by the unexpected, runners had to make a loop around the finishing line! The last km (I max out already) became the last 3 kms! This explains my “perceived” improvement. The last water station had an amusing signboard that says 41 kms. 200 meters to finish but I couldn’t see the finishing line. I started walking.

The Walk

My calves began to tighten. I could feel my muscles seizing anytime. After making a final right turn, I finally saw the finishing line. Choi was waving to me with his camera to move to the left. I pick up a limping run and smiled for the lens. Thanks to Choi for being the cameraman from start to finish.

I finish in 2:27:06. I believe this year’s route is longer. Mee Peng finished her 7km run in 55th position in 48 mins. She received her first ever medal. Both our bibs were numbered "001".

The Corrupt

I bought a large 94gm Deep Heat analgesic tube for RM10 – a real bargain. We wanted to drink more water but the stock seems to be depleting. What surprised me was the officials were “selling” the 6-pack sponsored can drinks openly for RM5 when it should be distributed free. Some runners were carting away cartons of bottled water. I saw a pickup truck loading at least 7 boxes and counting. Are they here to run or open a mini-market?

Overall, we were happy with the spacious new location, more than sufficient water stations and good weather. We will be back next year.

MPAJ Run 2006

2006-08-13T19:48:00.000+08:00

Got an sms from Ronnie to buy over a Junior Veteran bib from a fellow runner. I took up the offer with the anticipation of doing a discovery 10km route at Pandan Indah. I went back to my NB 15km notes to follow the same pre-race nutrient loading formula: cordyceps + multi-vitamin tablets + banana + coffee but this time minus the Powerbar.

Woke up before the alarm clock rang at 4:50 a.m. from a work-related audit preparation nightmare. The MRR2, which is just in the vicinity, leads all the way to Pandan Indah. Parked in the single-storey housing road junction next to the Bomba station.

The Padang Perbandaran Ampang Jaya was well lit with floodlights. Ronnie has informed me that this is the same organizer from the Klang run. It is no surprise there is no barricade and ribbons. Anybody can cheat if they want to.

7:20 a.m.

The program says the race starts at 7a.m. but it was already past 7:20 and we were still waiting inside the starting area. One runner became very pissed and shouted “Kalau tak boleh bangun jangan datang !!! “ I am not sure if he meant to swear at the VIP flagoff person or the officials who delayed the start. Soon many restless runners began to jeer, boo and woo.

Finally a grinning official stood on the high platform and sounded the air horn. It was a very gradual uphill, not steep at all. After 1km I notice the tall and burly runner who cheated in the Klang race was in front, wheezing loudly, his trademark. Shortly after 1.5km I caught up and overtook him. The route took us to the MRR2 highway.

Darth Vader

Coming down from the left turnoff flyover to the MRR2, I could hear Mr.Vader’s super heavy breathing shadowing my footsteps. He sounded like he had asthma. That drove me to run harder. After a few minutes, the dark side fizzled away. From MRR2, another left turn took us to Jln Bunga Raya. The area here was much greener and less traffic. 7kmers took the left turn and 10kmers took the right turn. A senior veteran runner had to back track after mistakenly took the wrong 10km turn.

4 Pacers & a bus

Somewhere at km-7, after the Petronas Station, I began to chant, “hammer! hammer! hammer!” There were 4 runners who seem to share the same pace. 3 female runners: D188, D160 and D130 were similarly attired. Earlier I had overtaken them but D188 seems to have reserved her best for last. She overtook me back with a pace that I could not match. D160 and I were running neck to neck on a single narrow lane under reconstruction. An air-cond bus came along side, almost brushing our shoulders moved at a walking speed. I could feel the bus air-cond (I don’t know why he opened the doors, perhaps to get a better view of the chicks?). To my amusement the driver jested “Ah, mari-mari naik bus! Hahaha! ”.

D160 was really pushing hard. It is the first time in my 2.5 years of running I hear a lady runner screaming “Arghhhhhhh!” at the top of her voice during a race. Eventually she regained her lead. She deserves it.

The 4th runner, C172 was doing his walk-run strategy. We exchanged leads a few times. Although I never walk or stop at the drink station, C172 adopted an alternating rest and sprint technique. Whenever he attacked he would overtake me conclusively. Whenever he walked, I would in turn overtake him back.

Less than 500 meters from the finishing line, C172 walked again. I maintained my pace and overtook him. As I ran past an official, he told me C-category finish already, which meant no more medals. Only the top 75 are awarded medals. I wanted to find out my position but the official was simply too slow in updating the spreadsheet until I lost my patience and left.

Mee Peng came to me and asked if I got anything. I was surprised myself as there was no finisher certificate presented at the finishing line. Later an official told me the finisher certificate is located at the far end table. Mee Peng told me she heard runners complaining why there were no certificates presented. I believe many runners left the ground without knowing there were certificates.

This is my fastest 10km race. I finished in 62:01. According to Ronnie’s website the actual distance was 10.5km. If that is true, then it is the first time I ran below 6mins/km for 10kms. The rather flat route had contributed to the better than expected timing.

The highly acclaimed Steven’s Corner mamak shop located just next to the MPAJ padang was a disappointment. We don’t find the food great.

Later I went to Low Yat to purchase a 250Gb Seagate Barracuda 7200 rpm hard disk for RM290 while the other half feast on the Isetan sale at Lot 10. Ate lunch in the supposedly famous silky smooth Ipoh Hor-Fun soup in Imbi Road.

Klang Run 2006

2006-07-23T20:01:00.000+08:00

The last time I ran a 7km race was the Olympic Run 2004. I must admit I am a lazy person when it comes to race registration. Thanks to the Pacemaker League Captain Ronnie See and his friends who are ever so helpful to register on behalf of others. It is people like them who spur others to run in races.

I try to make it a point to run a new race or route every year. Klang is 42kms away from my home. I got up at 4:45 a.m sliced up the freshly baked bread, ate a banana and drank the 5-in-1 tongkat ali ginseng coffee. No powerbar or powergel. I will be relying on herbal power. Left home at 5:45 a.m, by 6:05 I was already approaching the NKVE Bukit Raja Toll - too early. Parked at the club house stadium. The atmosphere was very relaxed, no barricade, no ribbons, horses, live band singing, runners came with children to run in the team event, almost like a family day.

Less Fats please

Racers no matter what shape participated. There was a category for paraplegic. This is encouraging and a positive approach to promoting a healthier lifestyle. The obviously obese VIPs who came in batik and slacks but wore sporty brand new Mizuno wave shoes. Perhaps, the Wave technology could help them to lose the excess fats.

At the starting line, I surveyed the C-Category runners and found C255 was the biggest number. With a total quota of 150 medals, I must run within 60 percentile of the Junior Veteran group. My thoughts were 50 minutes qualifying time for 7 km is achievable (this proved otherwise!). The teenagers as young as 13-year-olds were group together with the seniors, the oldest being 77-years-old. The organizers gave an award to the oldest participant!

Right after the count down, we zigzaged squeezing through a narrow exit. I programmed myself to run at 6min/km pace. The teenage runners were sprinting like there was no tomorrow. The older runners were cruising like I want a better tomorrow.

The route was an interesting one with many shortcut opportunities. We ran on an old look-alike WW2 bridge running parallel and just beneath the main bridge, crossing the foul smelling muddy Klang River. I observed the seniors skipped the water-station while the juniors wallop the 100 plus. There was one segment one could see the "S" double U-turn. This is where the controversy started. Since no ribbons were used, some runners cheated by cutting across the divider pavement. I remember overtaking a tall burly loud wheezing C-category runner only to see him reappeared some 100 meters ahead of me! Perhaps he has mastered the art of teleportation. Perhaps he wants a medal; Medal of Felony.

When my stopwatch clocked 40mins, I assumed I should be very close to the finishing line. Another uphill and I should be heading back to the stadium but alas that was not the last hill. The final and steepest uphill was the last km. 10km-ers; Draco Loong and Boon Seng greeted and overtook me. Both were very strong on the hill. Boon Seng was the one who helped me register for this race.

48 mins

2 minutes left from qualifying time and I was still ascending the Sulaiman Park hill. Is this route 7km or 8km? In front there were 2-3 runners in my category, all gung-ho and not giving in to walking. Weaving through the cars, which were courteous enough to slow down almost to a halt, I ran on a narrow 2-foot width gap path between the drain and the cars to avoid traffic obstruction and to shorten a 90-degree turn.

C for Consolation

Coming downhill, it was the approach to the stadium. C255 was in front and just when I tried to put up a sprint, he accelerated away. At the finishing line, there were so many alphabets: A,B,C,D,E,F,G,H,I,J.... until I had to slow down to count from left, 1-2-3...yes...3rd lane for C. Some runners ran into the wrong lane.

The official gave me a tiny dark green piece of paper, which read C-103. I think it meant 103rd position. I walked towards a C-tent, handed the slip and collected the certificate with a medal inside. I have forgotten to stop my new Nike Triax stopwatch, which by now had run past 52mins. I estimated I must have completed around 51-ish mins. The organizers continued to give the certificates and the remaining medals. Mee Peng had completely missed me. I saw her extending her neck glazing at the horizon waiting and probably worrying if I had passed out!

This would be my first medal received not merely for finishing but within position. It’s a small consolation for a lucky mediocre runner.

PJ Half Marathon 2006

2006-06-18T14:48:00.000+08:00

Without fail the night before every PJ run there would be a dinner function. This time it was my cousin’s wedding in Klang. My uncle, a retired ex-army intelligence personnel was in the same table. He was the only person guzzling the beer and wine. Knowing I was a drinker, he asked why the hell was I drinking water. I replied rather proudly I would be running the half-marathon in 9 hours time. He looked at me with a smile and said “Heng, the alcohol will give you a boost. Do you know I ran my first marathon in KL back in the 1950s? I was a student then in RMC (Royal Military College). I finished in 17th position. There was no water-station (?). I kept the certificate somewhere”. I told him he should look for it and show it to his grandson, Marcus whom he adored so dearly. Actually, I am rather curious to sight the certificate myself! 1950s???

Past midnight, when I was about to doze off, Mee Peng asked me to forget about the run and watch the World Cup instead. I mumbled something and went into deep sleep.

4:30 a.m

It’s time to do the jingle. Took the chocolate Powerbar, which was not as sweet as the other flavors. Left home at 5:50 am reached the stadium 6:10 a.m. There seems to be fewer cars this time round, could this translate to fewer runners?
Did not bother to hand in my registration card. I could not find the regular kakis.

Shortly after the start Newton came up to me and once again we are able to pace together. Reached the first water station in 25mins. After the Motorola flyover U-turn I developed a stomach pain right on my navel. Newton slowed down to wait for me but I didn’t have the tenacity to keep up. Told Newton to go ahead. Judging from the number of female runners in this category, this year’s participation seems to have dwindled.

After the Subang roundabout I waved to Jason, Kenneth, Jamie, Tey and Newton who were in the opposite direction. Found a place to take a leak under the Aerobridge. This is the first time I stop mid-race to ease myself! What a feeling.

My target is to reach the Subang terminal U-turn as quickly as possible because it will spur me to hallucinate I am zooming on the home stretch. Stopwatch clocked 1:36. All this while I contemplated whether I should eat my PowerGel. In the end I didn’t. My stomach was a bit bloated since breakfast, just didn’t feel like eating anything.

The Wall

Somewhere after the Sg. Damansara bridge, I began to walk-run. I lost my sense of speed, endurance and finishing instinct. Saw a barely conscious injured runner leaned by the side of the Saujana flyover with both knees badly bruised. Not sure if he tripped himself or hit by a vehicle. Another runner, policeman and an official were trying to keep him awake to get him into the ambulance.

Walking Tall

This is the race I walked the most. Just 600 meters from the finishing line, Mee Peng called me from the sidewalk bench. I put up a smile and restarted a run for the camera. Thanks to Newton who was clapping and cheering me to the finish. I clocked a personal worst of 2:34:09.

It was a strange finish. It was more of a relief from exertion than exhaustion. The pain was not so much in my lungs or legs but my stomach and left shoulder (heart related?). In the evening, a fellow marathoner sent me an SMS advice that I should take whatever is on the plate the night before the race.
Later in the week, I realized my legs were not as sore as expected.
3 things I did differently in this race:
(1) I ate abalone the night before
(2) I did not take PowerGel
(3) I peed mid-race!

Thrice Beaten Never Sigh

This race proves long run training is essential. I survived up to 14kms after that it was a decaying end. Perhaps too many halves had made me slacked and complacent with what the body has to offer. Nevertheless, it is still a distance accomplished and hopefully many more to come.

PaceSetters NB 15km Run 2006

2006-05-21T21:09:00.000+08:00

Pacesetters volunteers should be applauded for sacrificing so much time and effort in organizing quality races. I came to know volunteers “camp” at race site the night before the event to guard the goods and prepare the necessities.

Woke up at 5 a.m. I decided to omit my usual cereal based breakfast consisting of Oats and Nestum as I remember reading in the Singapore Marathon handbook that advised avoid fibrous food. Took a banana, Powerbar, 2 multi-vitamins, milo + soya powder + nescafe + milk powder and few sips of Excel.

Left home at 6:20 a.m. I parked near Tugu Peringatan and took a 5min walk to Padang Merbok. When I reached the grounds, the pen was already filled with a sea of blue-vested runners. Officials were seen hurriedly ushering the runners, the race was about to begin and there were still runners walking from Bukit Aman.

I look for familiar faces especially Newton who will be pacing with me but couldn’t find the regular guys. Near the starting line, I finally met somebody I know, Tey and asked if he had seen Newton and Jamie of which he said no. It was a long and packed pen. Just as I was contemplating whether I should walk back to the rear, the race director started the countdown.

It was a downhill start. I ran up the pavement to avoid the crowd and leverage on the momentum. I told myself to run like a half-marathon with reserves in mind for the multiple hills.

Bare-footed lady (BFL) was back. Slim, elegant and popular. Many runners chat with her in Cantonese. I observe her heels and noticed they were neither black nor hardened. BFL and I are almost same pace in our previous encounters and she always has the uphill speed advantage.

Upon entering Jalan Langgak Tunku a familiar figure appeared on my right. It was Kenneth. After exchanging a few words, Ken took off like a rocket. A female runner wore a striking multi-chimp-faced pair of shorts. Such pajamas-style attire is an instant attraction. Perhaps the Penguin group could follow suite.

Double Hill

Back in 2004 Nike 15km Run I was caught by the steepness of the Laman Tunku hill stretch. At that time, I tried to outrun it. This time I paid respect to this bully by putting my head down and took one step at a time.

The race leader had lapped me somewhere at km-7. After the hills, it was a gradual downhill towards Jln Mahameru. Jamie came from behind and said I was running fast. Since it was a downhill, I was able to pace with him for a short while before he took off. After Kementerian Pertanian it was the infamous long and curvy uphill. I slowed down but maintained steady pace. Perhaps Newton would meet up with me at this stretch for a chat and motivation I thought.

Female volunteers were seen cheering with laminated A4 placards. This is good effort. I remember teenagers were doing it back in the 2004 run but this time I only see people my age doing the cheering. Where is our youth power?

After drinking half a cup of Powerbar Endurance isotonic at the 3rd water station I felt energized. Near the Kenny Hills bridge, a race marshall announced 10km. Stopwatch displayed 1:03:02. I calculated a sub 1:40 finish is a feasible target.

Entering the final stretch after the Istana, a recognizable bandana clad Caucasian runner ran past me. This is the same runner in last year’s PJ Half Marathon where his alternate fast walking and running technique helped him pulled through the last km. It was this guy who had influenced me to adopt the mix walking and running tactic instead of forcing a slow run when the leg is kaput (limping).

Last km

A group of 3-5 runners were attacking the Tugu Peringatan stretch. Nobody was slowing down. I change my stride to longer strides. It worked. In the zigzag ending I overtook back the Caucasian runner and another lady runner who looked at me in puzzlement. Just 10 meters from the finish line I overtook another 2 runners. I must say I learn this from Sifu after watching his finishing video.

Feeling a bit disorientated I walked side ways and forgot to collect my coupon and medal! The moment Mee Peng saw me she reported the group was looking for me before the start and also why I always forget to join the finishers queue. She was afraid I might not be positioned correctly. She is my strongest critic.

Later met up with Newton whom I apologized and the rest Dinesh, Jamie, Ben, Choi, Ryan, Ronnie and Loong.

Retrospect

I did not expect to finish in 1:33:31. I was looking at 1:40ish. What happened? The turning point was the last 5km. I sustained a 10km pace for the last 5km. I haven’t been clocking increased mileage, that’s for sure. Was it the jungle trail running and hill climbing? Was it the step machine in the gym? Or was it my homemade high protein flour bread?? I don’t know.

While driving back Mee Peng surprised me by shaking my hand to congratulate me on the race. Perhaps she was the reason.

Pacesetters Brooks Bonding - Klang

2006-04-23T16:15:00.000+08:00

Traditionally the Pacesetters Club holds the Brooks Bonding event every year at the Forest Reserve Institute Malaysia (FRIM) in Kepong. However, this year the venue was changed to Klang, Sulaiman Park. With the help of Francis Toh the club’s Vice-President I just have to turn up to pay and collect the bibs on the day of the run itself.

As the name implies, Bonding means running in pairs. From the Sulaiman Park car park, the route took Mee Peng and I from the backyard of a residential area to Taman Rakyat Park. I am familiar with the hilly Taman Rakyat trails as it is my favorite venue for runs whenever I had the opportunity, during my in-laws visits.

After looping the hill, it was back to Sulaiman Park where the finishing line lies immediately after climbing a flight of stairs. We were presented with a nice pair of Brooks socks. This is better than getting a certificate or medal! Later, we had V-soy soya bean drink, watermelon, buns, curry puffs etc.

The objective of this event is to get a partner or a loved one to run and cherish the benefits of exercising. There is no position or time taken, just plain fun and togetherness. Pacesetter has done it again. Well done!

Power Run 2006

2006-03-19T00:15:00.000+08:00

Almost skip this run as 2 days earlier I had a suspicious mild sore throat infection. Ganesh my colleague was already on MC with the same ailment. Drank heaps of water and a whole pot of barley. On Sat I stayed indoors and try to keep my body cool and hydrated. Times like this the choice of food is important because it can trigger the virus to overrun the immune system.

Sunday morning

I woke up at 6am and the throat felt much better. The night before I told myself if the throat deteriorates in the morning I will just continue with my sleep. Took a leisurely drive to Dataran. Downed a packet of PowerGel.

While entering the barricade I wished Penguin Meng good morning. He looks much slimmer than the time I last saw him. Tey who is now becoming a fulltime cameraman shook my hand to wish me luck. Looked around for Ben and CS but couldn’t find them. I spent the next few minutes stretching my legs. Couldn’t see any familiar faces in the pen, probably they were early and have moved to the front line.

Start off

Not many runners. The weather was good. I ran the first km in 5.5 mins. I made a mental note to reach the National Monument bus stop within 60mins. Stomach cramps in 10km races are expected so I remind myself. All the pacers that I tried to follow eventually fade away. I didn’t have the sub 6min/km pace.

Arrived Jln Duta junction in 26:17. “Is the time ok?” I asked myself. I don’t know. I didn’t check my previous race timing on this checkpoint. After the Orange Run last Sunday, the Duta Hill seems easier! Coming downhill my strides were not in full extension unlike last year, I remember.

Tugu Peringatan

At the Jln Parlimen flyover I kept looking at my stopwatch, can I reach the bus stop in time? 59.17 that was my time, 40 seconds slower than last year. Ok, now it is the last stretch, I’ve ran this stretch many times already but wait my right tight seems to be cramping. No speed training surfacing? I ignored the pain.
Penguin KC who is now probably well known for his interesting photos taken with the Nikon D50 DSLR was standing in front of the Clock Tower snapping the finishers.

Finishing line

I am lucky to finish in 67:31. While walking towards the drinks tent, Choi (ccube) called me and we both joked Machine Man’s no show was probably because he had a late alcoholic night (which proved to be true!).

Overall, it was a good hard run. It would be interesting to see if the sub 70 time could be maintained or improved for the years to come, something which I thought was not possible 2 years ago.

Orange Run 2006

2006-03-12T15:40:00.000+08:00

It is rare to get free runs in Malaysia. The Orange Run was held at The Curve just a mere 8 mins drive from my home. Left home at 7a.m to pick up my brother, Kenny who was staying 4kms away. When we reached his house to our horror Kenny who is usually very punctual was still taking his shower! He overslept.

7:20 a.m

Drove the Wira like a Subaru Impreza WRX racing past traffic lights. 7:26 we were inside The Curve but could not find a way out of the building since all the exits were locked. We started jogging towards the Centre Court area and luckily that was the open food outlets walkway that leads to the starting point.

Lax

Within a minute, the FTAAA guy signaled the start. I ran off rather quickly. After Tesco, it was a left turn to Mutiara Damansara. Traffic control was very minimal, too minimal for comfort, which got me running cautiously. It is now becoming habitual whenever I cross a road I would raise my arm to warn and thank the drivers.

Alamak! HILLS!!!

I did not foresee so many hills from Kota Damansara to the new housing area Sunway Damansara. Beautiful houses. This is almost like the double hill maybe worse triple hill. Hill specialists will excel in this route. The morning sun was up. I was worried, not for myself but for Mee Peng who is doing her first 10km run.

Finished the run in 1:05:03. The official announced the finisher’s bib number through the loudspeakers as they come along. Amusingly, only ORANGE 100 Plus drinks were served. My whole head was drenched with sweat. Captain Ronnie came over to ask for my timing.

I took a bottle of water and walked back the opposite race direction to look for Mee Peng. A few runners smiled and complimented “Wah Boss! Cepat habis ah! “. “Bang, Jauh lagi kah?”. I said “Tada lah. Cari isteri“. Runners are such friendly people. I avoided walking on their path as it may disrupt their concentration to finish.

Hit by a Car

One of them relayed to me he saw a “budak” was HIT on the elbow by a car! He also reported the incident to a nearby policeman. This goes to show we cannot take for granted road racing is safe. I hope the runner was not seriously injured.

Finally met up with Mee Peng at the 1-Utama junction where we took a slow walk back. Kenny was having a feast with the unlimited free food: instant noodles with canned curry chicken, Cadbury chocolate biscuits, mee hoon and nasi lemak.

So much free food and they even gave a RM3 BHP petrol voucher. Generous organizers.

KLIM 2006

2006-03-05T23:23:00.000+08:00

I must confess I enjoyed running last year’s KLIM. It is not overly hilly, city sights and in a company of good friends. 2 weeks before the race, I did a 12 lapper at KLCC and ran-climb FRIM. Based on my running log, my last 12-lapper was Feb 24, 2005. It’s been a year since I trained a “long run” that exceeds 15kms.

Nostalgia

Set my alarm to go off at 4:15 a.m. but was pleasantly awaken by Jamie’s good luck sms. Reached Dataran at 6 a.m. Met CS, Newton, Kenneth and Ronnie who were all doing the half-marathon. 2 years ago I ran my first race here in the 10km event. It’s my 2nd Anniversary run.

The strong reverberations of the gendangs (drums) accompanied the start of the race– true Malaysian ambience!

For the first 2kms, Newton, CS and I were pacing together. CS has improved so much that he is now able to keep us company. Just before the left turn to Jalan Mahameru, CS excused himself to run at his pace. The 270- degree turn took us to the Federal Highway. An old Malay man, smiling, hooted his car from the opposite direction to give us his support. Perhaps, he was a runner himself during his heydays. Thanks Pakcik!

Eastern Runners

After Kuen Cheng School we could hear behind us 2 female runners, chatting in an Eastern language probably Russian. I almost rubbed shoulders with the Blonde when she and her partner appeared on my right to overtake us. Somebody exclaimed “SOLID!!!” The Blonde’s short (or was it a bikini?) was so short, we could see her bottoms – the type worn in beach volleyball. Blondie sniggered and knew all the male runners were drooling at her. Incidentally, a group of “over zealous” runners were seen to be in hot pursuit of these fabulous ladies.

9 km

After the second water station, my right thigh was beginning to play truant again. I can feel it tightening. Told Newton who has been so kind to keep me company this far, to go ahead as I fallback. Reached the 10km sensor mat in 64.5 mins (benchmark KLIM ’05 I was 2 mins slower).

PowerGel

The opened PowerGel was distributed but the water station ran out of water! I have already downed my gel. Penguins and a few of the veteran runners were seen salvaging discarded unfinished bottled water that was strewed on the road. One of them quipped “ Survivor! Survivor!”. Newton found a bottle too and I caught up with him to take his offer for a gulp. Hopefully, the previous drinker isn’t H5N1 positive.

Stress Mode

Unlike other races, I did not look for a pacer but concentrated on my leg condition and breathing. At Dewan Pustaka, I grit my teeth to run as close as possible to the runners in front of me to narrow the gap as I was afraid the police might release traffic at key crossroads. I managed to evade all of them until I came to the Jln Ampang – Jln Sultan Ismail intersection. The MIB suddenly allowed the vehicles to move along even when there was no break in the trailing runners! About 6 runners came to a complete stop!

But I didn’t stop. I was mad. With brain cells depleted of oxygen, I slurred 2 words “OOOOIIIII! FxxK!!!”. Raised my right arm to get the drivers attention, ignored the MIBs and cautiously crossed the road. Thankfully, all the vehicles without hooting stopped upon seeing my signal to let this desperate runner go.

It was risky, I know, but please MIB, there are many foreign runners in this major event. Please don’t embarrass our country.

Sogo

I reached Sogo in 2:06:11. At the back of my mind, I knew it would now be difficult to match or better last year’s time. Would this be another 2:29:xx finish for the 3rd consecutive time? This time round the organizers have improved by placing 2 water stations in the last 2kms. Good work! However, it also meant I had an excuse to walk twice to re-hydrate.

Finishing

200 meters from the finishing line I heard somebody called my name, I think it was Newton and Kenneth. There was no overtaking. I wanted to surge but the leg couldn’t. All of us ran in a single flank to the finish. My stopwatch clocked 2:26:32. I was puzzled why I was not in total exhaustion (?) unlike last year. Perhaps it was the heavy drinking?

Post Mortem

I was well hydrated through out the race and this is a sign the organizers of KLIM have improved. The Standard First Aid station first followed by the water station and occasional ice-cold sponge station is a brilliant idea, which in my opinion is better than the Singapore Marathon!

For the first time, there was a massage tent and ice pools for the swelling feet.

KLIM can improve further by reviewing the quality, clarity and promotion of its brochures. The T-shirt was one of the ugliest I have gotten in a race, looks like a piece of discoloured car wash rag. Sometimes simple could be best.

CS ran an amazing race, shaving off 30 mins from last year’s run. Newton exonerated the “cramp” factor by finishing the run without any problems. Jamie and Ben ran the much-anticipated friendly Marathon duel with both PR. Well done my friends!

Half-way driving home, my wife suddenly popped a question “How come your running time seems to have stagnant despite so many races?”. I answered what most runners would answer, “Low mileage”. I never formulate a training regime and almost zero race plan. I read in an article that they are 30% of the people whose fitness level would not improved despite exercising.

The constant zest to run the next race better and further is what makes a runner tick. I must keep the clock ticking!

Great Eastern PaceSetters 20km Run

2006-01-25T13:33:00.000+08:00

Registering races beyond 10km is becoming a “long run” commitment whereby I have no excuse but to complete the distance, something, which I am unable to discipline myself in training. Come to think of it, I have not run more than 8 laps in KLCC since Feb 2005.

The day before the run, I did some DIY electrical and water fittings for my brother’s house and mine despite recovering from flu. That night was also the exciting All England Badminton live coverage where 3 Malaysian doubles pair made it to the semi-finals and Chong Wei’s epic battle with Lin Dan, the World No.1. Kenny, my brother rang my house at 11:30 p.m. to inform me of this when I was just about to go into deep sleep.

While Mee Peng was watching the matches past midnight I had a strange dream. I dreamt I did not lube my toes (?), could not find a parking lot and was late for the race.

4:15 a.m.

Woke up by the sound of my handphone alarm, took 2 bananas, PowerBar, oats drink laced with a packet of Nescafe arabica for the caffeine and a few gulps of Gatorade. Mizuno Atlantis just 35kms-old is the race shoe.

Driving at 110-120km/hr, I reached Lake Gardens at 5:40 a.m. As expected, all the car parks were full. The Bird Park and TAR Memorial parking areas were cordoned off with a piece of rope! How selfish! We are not going there to “Pak Doh” (dating/petting) lah. Most drivers had no choice but to park on the road shoulder, some right in front of Bukit Aman HQ.

I remember there was a Butterfly park and luckily, the parking area was open. Phew! Walking towards the lake a large contingent of runners came charging to my direction. Just to be sure my dream was only a dream, I did a check with a veteran Sikh runner who was doing his warm up by the jogging track. He confirmed it’s for the 30km category. 20km starts 30 minutes later.

Once again, I bumped into Kenneth Teh whom I have not seen since PJ Half-Marathon. Looked around for Newton but could not find him.

6:30 a.m.

Started off by pacing with Kenneth and his friend. After the Bank Negara tunnel I slowly drop off. Once again, I looked for similar pace runners to tailgate and as markers. 3 female runners overtook me: Black Cap (BC), Red Cap (RC) and Black Pants (BP). I decided to follow these graceful runners. I will overtake them on the downhill but on the uphill they would overtake me back. There was also a 20+ year-old Black Adidas T-shirt male runner (BAT) who was treading leads with me. Surprisingly, there were already runners walking at km-2, perhaps they are adopting the Galloway technique.

Discovering Hartamas

I reached the Jln Duta crossroad estimated 6.5 kms in 41 mins. From here it is untested territory. The “Hartamas Route” is popular amongst runners who do their early weekends morning long run drills, training and breeding ground of some of the best runners. Though I am completely familiar with this road but I have never run it before, this would be my first.

BP had dropped off. BC was very agile on the uphill and many male runners had to kow tow to her supremacy, as she seems to thrive on hills. RC and I exchanged leads a few times. Orange flavoured Powerbar Endurance drink was served in all drink stations. Thank you to the sponsors and Pacesetters. The Endurance quenched my thirst very effectively.

Finally reached the Petronas station U-turn. Stopwatch clocked 71 mins. Not sure of the distance, probably km-11. Where are the distance markers? I took half of the Raspberry cream PowerGel. From the opposite direction, I could see many familiar faces some from the 30km category: Ronnie/PM1, Rohaizad, Julian, Adidas Man….

No cramps please

At the mosque probably km-13 my right heel developed some tightness, which hadn’t happened before. The fear of an imminent cramp took the pace out of me. On top of that my nose and ear were blocked. By now BC had easily overtaken me. As I was musing on the problem, somebody yelled in a military tone from the other opposite direction “ Cheong! Common RUN don’t @#$%&*….(gibberish) !!!”. It was machine man, Ben doing his 30k. He was probably 4-5kms behind me. Fortunately, as the gradient of the road varied, the heel discomfort alleviated.

Jalan Jalan Jalan

Soon I was back at the Jln Duta crossroad, the 3 policemen decided to ease traffic by letting some cars go! 2 runners and myself had to come to a complete STOP. The runner on my left said “Eh! HOW CAN LIKE THAT!”. I replied “Ya lah” raised my arm to the moving vehicles and cross the busy road without the policemen intervening, the 2 runners follow suit.

Breaking Point

Trouble began from the signage that says 3kms to the finishing line. History repeats itself. Is my right leg good for 17kms only? Based on experience my brain transmitted a report to my heart that says the right leg is going to collapse soon. Mind over matter?

There was another female runner let me codename her Never Give UP (NGU). She was limping and judging from her movement, she also had RIGHT FOOT problems! Her left leg dragged her right leg but her running pace was still steady. I am sure I looked that way too. In fact worse, I was the noisiest runner because my shoes slide with the sound of “cheak cheak cheak” due to feet dragging. The veteran Adidas Man had overtaken me. I notice he always finish strongly with a huffing sound.

At the end of Jalan Tunku, there was a Pacesetter volunteer who was clapping non-stop (he was the only person who clapped in the entire race) for us. Many felt encouraged including myself and increased the pace slightly. 10 meters from the cheering volunteer I had a spasm attack on my right leg. As I limped towards him, he said “Only 2 kms to go. Not very far” and smiled. I replied, “Ok” and continued my walk.

Battle of the Minions

The last 800 meters of this race was the most interesting. Before the start of this race, I thought I could try 2:20 (since its 20k and not 21k) but at this stage it was already 2:21+. Again I retargeted for a sub 2:30 finish! Will I make it? The pacers came into play.

It was the final Jln Parlimen uphill, most walk-run, I was never far away from NGU. Suddenly BP and BAT reappeared!!! I last saw them at km-3 and km-9 respectively. BAT and I struggled between walk and run. NGU and BP were not walking but adopt a steady run.
Veteran Sikh runner emerged from nowhere and overtook all of us. Good going mate!

As I turn right to the Lake Club road, another Pacesetter/FTAA guy said to me “Just down the road is the finishing line…very near”. I replied “Ok”. Before the mini-roundabout, all 3 of them NGU, BP and BAT were ahead of me. BP was leading! The road was descending; I took the advantage to swiftly overtake NGU and BAT. BP was just meters from finishing. I extended the length of my strides. With 8 strides left to the end I overtook BP. At the finishing line, I raised my arms and looked at the tripod Nikon camera. I finished a near identical time of my last half-marathon run 2:29:22.

Pacemakers

Ate tau fu far, watermelon, banana and drank as much as I could. A group of PMs gathered together for photographs. It was good to meet Julian whom I have not seen for awhile, Rohaizad the “Tan Sri”, Draco, Ronnie, Kenneth, Jamie, Ben, CCube and others.

Overview

I enjoyed this run better than Singapore Marathon. The Kenny Hills – Sri Hartamas is a very good route: fresh air (apart from the dusty road works), challenging terrain and low traffic. It is no surprise why many runners choose this route for their training.

The Pacesetters volunteers did a good job. One of these days I would like to contribute what these volunteers had contributed. It would be interesting to experience race marshaling cum photographer.

I did a measurement on a treadmill: 7min/km pace = 160 strides/min. In a half-marathon, I would have done 24,000 strides. The key to improve the long runs now lies with my right leg. It is my weakest point. I usually have problems buying new shoes that fit snugly on my right foot. I am left-handed. Is being left-handed has anything to do with the “rightness” anomaly?

From the last 3 races, it appears I am going downhill with slower timings but then the actual distance and terrain differ for all 3. Recent KLCC lap timing has declined. I am using races as a carrot to run 20k+ distances and by just completing them is sheer satisfaction.

I pray my incurable tinnitus does not deteriorate for I want to live another day to run another race!

Singapore Half-Marathon 2005

2005-12-04T23:42:00.000+08:00

Work work work
Immediately after my 2-week mandate leave, there was an ISO audit and compliance deliverables, which took up 12 hours daily. While the audit was expected, the other wasn't. Singapore Marathon was not in my mind. I contemplated of foregoing the event since I may not meet the work deadline, no transportation back and low mileage.

In the end, my sister-in-law's family decided to join us for the Singapore trip. SIL's husband drove like a Formula 1 driver. He drove the Toyota Innova at a constant speed of 150km/hr even overtook a police car! Took less than3.5 hours to reach the Tuas border.

The Singapore map I bought 2 years ago was extremely useful. Reached SuntecCity at 1 p.m. The Sports Expo was full of Pacesetter members donning the trademark bright yellow T-shirt. I felt a sense of pride to be associated with the fellow Malaysian runners.

Nice Climalite
The staff manning the counters were well trained and courteous. Collected a shoe bag with a nice Adidas blue Climalite vest. I now have 3 vests: Nike, NB and Adidas - all from race events! Bought the shuttle bus ticket at $3. Hive of activities going on. Observe with awe a 6-year-old girl doing 20-feet rock climbing. Couldn't stay long as my nieces were waiting on the ground floor.

SIL and spouse being devote gamblers asked me to find a 4-D shop as they have just visited the Fountain of Fortune and wanted to buy my bib number. A salesman told us to try Peninsular Plaza. After walking for hours, I rested my legs by sitting on a walkway. Mee Peng came out from a shop and exclaimed "Look WHO IS HERE!". It was Dr. Jamie! We greeted each other and it was good to see him. We have been SMSing each other since our journey from KL.
Finally, we left the city center and drove towards Woodlands where we stayed in my cousin-in-law’s place for the night.

3:40 a.m.
Was up at 3:40 a.m. I had pre-packed all the necessities in individual transparent zipper plastic bags: PowerBar, multi-vits, cereal, Vaseline, Counterpain, contact lenses etc. Wore the Brooks Forza for the first time.We just missed the 5 a.m. shuttle bus from Woodlands stadium by seconds and had to wait for the 5:30 a.m. one.

Samba
Reached the Esplanade Bridge around 6 a.m. Aiya! The Full Marathoners have just taken off! The MC psyched the runners up with a barrage of disco beats and inspiring statements. My thoughts were with first-timer Ben and veteran Jamie.

Within minutes, the half-marathoners assembled inside the pen. I try to look for a familiar face but found none. I was calm. With the ever-motivating MC hyping the kind of music that makes you think that this is indeed "the greatest race on earth", I was eager to take-off.

Go!
My start was charged with adrenaline, I ran the first 2km in sub-12 minutes.
There were so many water stations – every 2km. The 500 ml water bottles were in a way wasted as many just had a few gulps and threw the rest away. Perhaps, the water manufacturer could come up with 250-300ml water bottles specifically for race events – the size you find in Spritzer’s Soda Pop. Noticeably missing were sponge stations. I find cold sponging helps to dissipate heat from the head and alleviate sore muscles.

This is one race where you are never alone. There were runners everywhere: front, back, side and opposite. Most of the roads U-turn back hence you’ll see runners from the opposite direction. Initially, I ran on the right side of the road to catch a glimpse of the returning runners but stop soon after I felt dizzy.

10 km
The distance markers were displayed at every km. Even the water stations had “….150m to water station” signboards. The Marshals were doing a fantastic job. Instructions were non-ambiguous and crystal clear “Runners move to your left!!! (when we approach a left turning bottle neck).….10k Runners U-turn to your RIGHT, the REST go straight!”. I reached the 10km mark in 1:04:37, which was 1-2 minutes behind my usual split. From here onwards, I struggled to maintain a sub-7min/km pace.

The sun was rising from the East Coast. Even though this is my 5th half-marathon, experience itself cannot save me from the lack of training. I drank as much water as my stomach could hold without feeling bloated.

I took the Lime PowerGel at the 12th km. Exiting Marina South, coming back to the Esplanade Bridge, there were many SLR photographers and almost non-existent cheerleaders. If I am not mistaken, there was only one pom-pom group. Since the bibs are only place in front and none at the back, it was difficult to correlate your position or pacing with the other runners. There was no human yardstick.

After the bridge, I kept looking in front for the final U-turn; many have made their turn. The sun was now up and blazing directly on my face. I saw Wan the ex-Pacesetter president from the opposite direction. Participants will have no way of cheating by shortcutting across the cone divider because the Champion Chip sensor mat is located at every U-turn.

Final U-turn
At last, the last turn, the last hurrah. I have reserved some energy to attack from this point. It is the 17 km mark. Time 1:55:32. I started to pick up speed and overtook runner after runner. But alas! My right (again) calf twitched. I slowed down immediately. When the drink stations came, I took my time to drink and walk at least 20 seconds. Initially, I was targeting a sub 2:20 finish, and then I move it to 2:25. It is still possible, so I thought.

Longest 3 kms.
When I saw the 18th km signboard, I said to myself, it is only 3kms away why can’t my legs move. By now the spasms are sporadic. My thought now was to save my right leg from a major cramp. In the final kilometer back to the Esplanade Bridge I walk-run. There was a young sweet female Marshal who yelled “Common, u can MAKE it, the finishing line is just after the Bridge (Andarson Bridge)”. Made a right turn from the Esplanade Bridge to the second bridge. After crossing it, there were scores of spectators on both sides of the road applauding their friends and love ones to the finish. I could see the distance markers 300m….200m ….100m….

Despite the attention, for every right stride I made the cramp attacked my lower thigh and upper calf. I was limping to the finish. I looked at the giant stopwatch it was displaying 2:29:50…51..52...53…. I just want to beat the gun time of sub 2:30.

I finished with an official Chip Time/Gun Time 2:29:13 / 2:29:58. The last 3km split times: 8:44; 8:48 and 9:13. My Timex stopwatch clocked 2:29:15. Accurate timing.

Rehydrate
Behind the finishing line, runners can enjoy “all you can drink” session in an enclosed area. I drank 2 cans of 100 Plus and a bottle of water. The 100 Plus somehow tasted saltier and tastier than the ones I drank last night. I greedily grabbed 3 more cans, one stuffed to my back pocket and 2 bottles of water! I had a feeling there will be no drinks outside the cordoned area and Mee Peng was probably thirsty waiting under the hot sun.

Returned the Champion Chip and collected the medal. After cooling off under the ceiling fan tent, it was time we made our way back to Woodlands. With so much hydration, I felt perfectly fine.

MRT
We boarded the MRT at City Hall. I was carrying a backpack and a water bottle. As the train moved from station to station, I leaned against the pole and coolly drank my water. I notice the other passengers were observing me and I soon realize why when I read the warning “no drinking FINE $500”.

I developed motion sickness in the train, the same experience I had after driving home from the Putrajaya Half-Marathon. Luckily I did not throw up. Maybe I should bring my blood pressure monitor next time.

Nutshell
I may not be the type of runner who would travel long distances to participate a race. However, I always enjoy the experience of running in new venues and routes. Running is another form of Traveling. The journey can be mystifying.

PJ Half-Marathon

2005-09-18T23:22:00.000+08:00

Exactly a year ago, I pondered if I could survive my first 21km race, the PJ Half-Marathon. Coming into the same race this year, I wondered if I could repeat the feat by qualifying this time since the PJ Half is not full 21kms but 19.5km. I also wanted to erase the disappointment of being mistimed last year despite finishing 2:13.

After PutraJaya run, I took it easy to rest the legs and did only one 15-min light running. A blogger called the back-to-back Putrajaya and PJ half-marathon run “The double Jaya Run”. Indeed it was a double “jaya” and double happiness run for this blogger.

Carbo overload
The night before the race, it was again my niece birthday held in the afternoon. Unlike last year, this time I took the greasy cake, fried chicken, fried sotong, chips, noodles etc.... I made sure I was stuffed by eating Hor Fun (noodles) at 9 p.m.

Woke up at 4:30 a.m with a headache. Took half powerbar, 2 bananas, cereal drink and 2 vitamin pills. I am still keeping the opened Putrajaya powergel in the fridge! Consumed it once I reached the Stadium carpark.
Met Kenneth Teh (PM20) at the road junction. Haven't seen him for quite awhile. Incidentally, he was also the first person I met last year. We met our opposite neighbour, Mrs. Su who was running the 5km category. She finished the Putrajaya 21km in 2:15 in the senior category a remarkable timing considering she is a busy mother with 4 children.

Off we go...
I started off quickly with no feet problems experienced in Putrajaya but had an unexpected urge to urinate despite visiting the washroom just 15 minutes ago (prostate gland enlargement?). Maybe it is due to anxiety but I did drink quite a fair bit of water in the morning.

I reached the first waterstation right before the Motorola flyover in 22+ mins, which was 2 mins faster than last year. U turn back on the other side, there were many familiar runners from the Putrajaya run. I recognized them from the rear and side profile but not the face. This is because during a run, one normally doesn’t get to see the runner face to face!

Ponytail girl, Adidas man, Bidor Kaki and Slim Orange Lady were all there and we seem to share the same pace. After I overtook Ponytail girl, it began to drizzle. Alamak! Would this be my first time racing under the rain? It was almost 7a.m and chilly.

Raindrops keep falling on my head…
Just as I approached the Subang airport flyover, the rain got heavier. I ran a little faster to induce more body heat negating the coldness. By now, my hair was dripping and shoes soaked. I decided not to lap (press buttons) on my Timex watch as it had a problem of hanging/reseting under wet conditions.

12 km
The distance markers were completely missing until km 12. Time was 77 mins. No race plan no target checkpoints just run to the best of my ability so I told myself. The new flyover under construction last year was ready this year for the runners to tackle its gradient.
After passing the Subang roundabout, I saw Kenneth on the opposite road, it was the same place I saw Newton last year. I waved and gave him a thumbs-up. I should be making a U-turn soon at the Aerobridge so I thought but to my chagrin, the U-turn was right at the end of Terminal 3 roundabout! The route is now at least 1.5km longer!

Habis, habis my 2-3 minute gain is completely wiped out by this longer route.

16 km
Reached the km 16 marker in 1:45+. I did a quick arithmetic; to finish 2:15 I need to run the last 5kms within 30mins i.e. 6mins/km. It was mission impossible and my only hope was the distance marker was inaccurate.

I put up a challenge and increased pace. Then I saw the new daunting flyover again and people walking on it. This was the turning point of the race.
At the crest of the flyover, I gazed far ahead to locate the final left junction turn to Kelana Jaya. When I could not see it, I lost hope.

Chopsticks
My stamina was dead.
Though my legs had no muscle pull or cramps, they were as stiff as chopsticks. Out of the blue, an orange angel appeared. It was Slim Orange Lady (SOL), she had been following or pacing behind me for the last 8-10kms! SOL seemed to adopt the Galloway’s walk-run strategy. In the last 3 kms, we exchanged leads 6-7 times until it became embarrassing. I almost wanted to chat with her since we were running side by side. I wanted to tell her I wasn’t competing with her but merely trying to survive. Maybe she thinks the same?
I was running so slowly until a smart Mat Salleh’s fast walking equaled my slow run. (Perhaps I should walk more often but Ben says, “It is a sin”.)

Angel speed
Finally, we came to the Kelana Jaya junction, from here onwards SOL took off. I started walking too after observing the Mat Salleh’s speed walking.
Coming into the stadium, it was rather quiet, overtook one runner and sprinted the last 100 meters.

Wan the ex-Pacesetter President waiting at the finishing line whom at first I thought was a race official, handed me a 30km Pacesetter race application form which initially I thought was some certificate!

There was no official to take my position. According to Mee Peng, the moment the 2:15 qualifying time ended, the race officials just left the finishing line. I completed the race in 2:26:49.
Traffic control could be improved with road closure as 99 percent of the time we were running along with the traffic. I fear somebody may get hurt one day.

Keep trying
This is my 4th Half-Marathon. For the 2nd year running, I failed to qualify for the PJ Half. This is the only race event I fail to meet the qualifying mark. Regardless of age group, the PJ Half-Marathon organizers fix the qualifying time of 2:15 for all categories.

On the positive side, my legs were stronger this time and perhaps with higher mileage I may one day conquer the 2:15 barrier.

Putrajaya Half-Marathon

2005-09-11T11:01:00.000+08:00

This inaugural run was held on Sept 11, the 3rd anniversary of the 911 incident. I am beginning to like half-marathons because it challenges my fear of enduring and completing the distance. After running twice in this category, my apprehension seems to have lessened and this translates to unhealthy low mileage and irregular long runs. Such laziness does not augur well to race preparation.

Training

I only did 2 LSD (long slow distance), if one can consider them as long runs: 90 mins and 83mins a week before the race covering distances of 13 and 11 kms respectively. Compared to KLIM 2005 training, I was practically running every session between 70-100 mins.

4 days before the race, I went to the gym to do some light workout. There was this new “step machine” that simulates the leg running motion and it was perfect since it was impactless. I spent 20 minutes on it and later learn to regret it!

Race day

Set my alarm clock at 4a.m but woke up at 2:50 a.m. due to a very dry throat. Rolled on the bed for the next hour and finally got up. Left home at 5:45 a.m. This would be Mee Peng’s first visit to Putrajaya.

4 Toilets and 60 Angry Runners

As usual, once I reach the site I looked for the washroom. Went to the mosque but was not allowed entry and was directed to the starting line. To my horror, there were only 4 mobile toilets: 2 for Men and 2 for Women! The queue was 15 runners long! Why do the organizers keep repeating the same mistakes? For heavens sake, there are 8,000 participants not including non-runners in this major event. Don’t they do capacity planning?

An official saw the situation and came over to inform the runners to go to the basement food court, as there are more toilets there. This responsible official instead got cursed by an impatient runner who replied, “Why the fxxk didn’t you tell us earlier?!”. I honestly think it was no fault of the helpful official but that of higher authority.

Putra Bridge

As I entered the barricade, I could hear people complaining about the toilet allocation. Moved right to the back to get some air. Look around for familiar faces then Jamie appeared and said “Ah! PM members come lets take some photos”. Draco and Ronnie join in the group photo. Tey who was sporting a new digital camera, seems to be having a whale of a time photographing the event.

The PAIN

A few PMs (Pacemakers) were heard saying “Easy run ya, take it easy only lah…”. The gunshot fired and PM1 scamper to the front while we laughed. I kept to the left most side of the 3-lane road. Everybody seems to be starting at a faster than normal pace. After 100 meters, something was not right. Both my legs were aching! My toes and forefeet felt sore – a result of the gym workout on the new step machine that I have mentioned earlier! In fact, sporadic parts of my legs felt lethargic. I have never felt this way so early in a race before.

Kilometer 1

The km distance markers were informative. I clocked 5:46mins in the first km and told myself to slowdown, as this is not a 10k race coupled with the unpredictable leg condition.

A senior veteran runner probably in his early 50s stopped a passing ambulance and asked for oxygen. I was afraid he might be suffering from a heart attack or some other ailment.

Bouncing Distraction

Somewhere after km 4, the route u turn and I ran the opposite direction where I could see the tail end of the runners. There were 2 attractive Chinese lady runners pacing together, one of them had her front bouncing up and down. It was obvious enough for the guys on my side of the road to start ogling and teasing. {Later Mee Peng relayed to me (I missed the scene) she saw it herself at the finishing line where everybody including the religious ones stared at her low cut vest and wondered if she deliberately choose not to wear a sports bra or was she actually braless?}

By 8 a.m. the sun had risen from the East. Though it was not blazing hot, the barren land with no trees or highland offers no shade or scenery for the runners. The numerous solid steel bridges looked a bit odd in an area where development is not fully materialized.
Fortunately, water stations were located at close intervals of 3-4 kms. After learning my lesson from the KLIM 2005 run, I made sure I hydrate at every drink stop.

My legs were not moving as comfortably as I would have expected. The nagging aches were a nuisance. I was not relishing this race.

Tried to look for pacer(s) to change the boredom. Found a ponytail and D004. D004 seems like a steady pacer. Ponytail was faster and soon I lost sight of her. D004 was agile on the uphill where I lost ground despite my efforts to close the gap going down the slope. I use such mind tactics to maintain pace.

Mid-race

There were a few of us treading leads: The Bidor kaki runner, a red vest “Taipei” Marathoner, 2 balding grey hair muscular senior veteran pacing together, a plump loud Grunter his rhythmic "Er!.... Er!.... Er!" sounded as if he is being whipped to run, a lady running with full-sized headphones like the ones found in studio recording. Next time I will bring my Sennheiser. There was this strange male Malay runner with long curly hair right down to his waist! He used only one pin on his back bib. I think he is the same eccentric runner whom I have seen in other races wearing jeans and boots but always finish strongly but why is he walking this time?

Worse than double hill

The route was undulating. I have no idea what terrain was in front of me – difficult to sustain a pace. There were so many types of uphill! Some steep, some long, some 270 degrees highway slopes; you name it Putrajaya has it.

In my opinion, this kind of route is excellent for training but tormenting for racing. I clocked 63mins at the 10th kilometer mark, which was consistent with KLIM 2005.

Last 4 kms

Ponytail who lead earlier, reappeared and seemed to have slowed down. Slowly I overtook her and had a feeling I could finish strongly but it was otherwise.

The last 2 uphills were the killer. The circular Persiaran Sultan Salehuddin gradual uphill final stretch seems endless. I could hardly move a step further. My blood pressure must have measured an all time high. At least 15 runners overtook me in the final 2kms. Headphone lady was back, easily overtook me. The headphones had a charging effect on her. I just could not muster any more energy. I grimaced and wondered how does one complete a full 42-km marathon?

1 km to the finishing line, there was yet another water station. I excused myself to stop not so much to grab a drink but to rest! Continued slogging and heard somebody exclaimed “Oi! Faster! Faster!” it was Ben walking back to his car, managed to slur a few words to ask what was his timing of which he replied 1:48. A few 100 meters further Jamie shouted “Alrite Cheong, go for it!” I gulped and uttered “dying…”. Saw Justin who also cheered me on.

Manage to overtake 2 A-group runners and sprinted the last 50 meters. For the first time, I raised my arms in relief to commemorate the end of a tough race. The official shooed me away when I tried to ask for my position since PM website request for such results. I finished 2:19:36.

Overall

I must admit this is one heck of an arduous run. 1.5 hours after the run, while I was driving around SEA Park, PJ looking for a coffee shop to have breakfast I suddenly felt nauseous and wanted to throw up. It was close to noon – I have not eaten. After a bowl of low shee fun (noodles) and cold shower, I recovered.

Read somewhere “No Pain No Gain. Pain is my friend”. It better be right because PJ Half-Marathon is the following Sunday.

Power Run 2005

2005-07-26T18:49:00.000+08:00

It has been 8 months since I last ran a 10km race. The Duta route is always a good benchmark to gauge my fitness level. It is also a route where I am most familiar with.

I got up in the morning with the thawed PowerBar ready on the table to be gobbled up. It was drizzling. Will the rain get worse? I hesitated on chewing the PowerBar and in the end decided not to consume it because it would be wasteful should I choose to skip the race due to the downpour. Instead I carried a pack of PowerGel to Dataran – a deviation from my standard pre-race breakfast. However, to compensate for the nutrients, I took one tablet of Bio-grow Vitamin B-complex and a tablet of Kordel’s multi-vits+ginseng.

When I reached Dataran, the weather was simply beautiful. It was cool and breezy. I quickly took the double-caffeine strawberry flavoured PowerGel and sip my Gatorade. 15 minutes to the countdown, Ben Lim came running to my direction to collect his bibs. Ben as usual is as cool as a cucumber.

CS was already in the barricade. Could not find Newton. Ben excused himself to move in front of the pack.

VIP Ong Tee Keat fired the gun and we were off. This is one of the rare occasions where I started alone without any familiar faces alongside. For some unknown reasons, I ran with a posture that was similar to Michael Johnson's, chest forward and head tilted back (?). This seems to alleviate my backache ailment but I am not sure if the posture looked silly!

The Mizuno Precision 3 once again proved to be an excellent racing shoe.
As always, many runners overtook me at the Langgak Tunku stretch. After the 2nd kilometer, I felt a mild discomfort developing on the left diaphragm, which moved to the right and settling to the centre of my ribs. I focus in my breathing with the hope the pain would ease away.

Kilometer 5

Just before the Duta roundabout, the pain disappeared and it came at the right time as it was the start of the Duta Hill. I notice the heavier runners who overtook me earlier slowed down. Coming down hill, a recently renovated road that leads to a mini-tunnel. I increased pace with the hope of reaching the National Monument bus-stop in sub-60mins. I did not target any checkpoints but merely ran to the best of my ability.

Bare-footed Runner

As I was tackling the last uphill, the Parlimen flyover, a bare-footed Chinese lady runner came from behind with a distinguishable footstep “phek phek phek” and overtook me. I admired her toughness and wondered how her foot could withstand the abrasive asphalt. I attempted to follow her pace.

I reached the National Monument bus-stop in 58:37 mins. Bare-footed runner was now just behind me. After the fast downhill run and roundabout she overtook me again. I think she was also using me as a pacer! I gave chase and manage to overtake her back just as we turn to the clock tower.

Finished in 66:10 mins (PR). I was rather surprise to achieve this time, as I have not been running as regularly as last year. The route familiarity did help in pacing the sectors. Thanks too to the bare-footed lady runner. Ben did a fantastic PR time of 52+ mins and got a medal (80th position). CS also improved and PR 76+ mins.

Overall I enjoyed the run. Later Mee Peng and I had the popular pork noodles at Bandar Manjarala.

Fainting Report

2005-07-14T18:14:00.000+08:00

This is the first time in 40 years I passed out. The person standing (?) who took my blood poked the needle, swerve the needle from left to right and said "macam mana ini....." I was relieved when it was all over. By that time, most of the Citibankers behind me have opted to be attended by the other medical personnel.

I then queued for the blood pressure test. Told Shila from Technology not to go for the person who took my blood. She acknowledged. While I was talking to her, in a split second I suddenly felt I was teleported to another place.

It was silent, as if you are in a dream or nightmare but could not get out of it. I was confused. There were dark images of people over me, like I was in a busy street with people walking above me. At one point I had a fear I was dying!

Later, when my hearing senses came back, I could hear my own deep breathing. I was struggling to regain my senses.

According to eyewitness, I was trembling and groaning. I collapsed like a deadwood hit my butt and my head. My butt is aching badly now.

James Edwin came over and joked my macho image gone already (didn't know I had one). The Dr. or nurse brought me a cup of milo. She asked me if I had a history of epilepsy (fits) and when I last ate. They said I looked so pale (like a corpse).

Later, I went over to HR lounge area to rest. Ganesh and Newton were so kind to keep me company. I wallop the breakfast Newton bought.

The experience, I believe is like when a person suffers from a stroke. My senses and limbs were completely disconnected from the brain> but yet I could see blurry images (eyes could not focus).

I hope it is a one off thing and not related to my tinnitus problem. Will drop by a GP later.

Thank you to my friends for being caring and concern of my well-being.

New Balance Pacesetter 15km Run

2005-05-29T22:25:00.000+08:00

I thought I would have missed this run since it clashed with our company's department trip to Penang. Luckily, Jamie told us that there would be a replacement run organized for Pacesetter volunteers the following weekend.

The double-hill route is one my favourites as it covers almost every aspect one can expect in road running; uphill, downhill, zigzags, long straights and best of all the greens provide healthy levels of oxygen minus the highway carbon-monoxide.

Gurney Drive

In all my holiday outings, no matter where, I will make it a point to jog around the area or hotel where I am staying. Apart from the exercise, I gain to sightsee and explore the area. In fact, I have been doing this way before I started regular running/racing.

For the department trip, we stayed in Evergreen Laurel Hotel just along Gurney Drive. Since the trip is a free and easy one, I thought I should do some training. On Sat, I started my run at 7:30 a.m, to my surprise it was already hot since it was next to the sea, the sun had already risen from the horizon. Ran back and forth Gurney Drive, probably end to end approximately 1.8-2km. This was also the first time I ran with my colleague, Ganesh. Ganesh has recently picked up running.
The following day, I started at 6:40 am and the walkway was already packed with elderly people doing their morning walks. There was a very fast Japanese runner who looked like a seasoned Marathoner doing lap after lap carrying a water bottle, smiling and enjoying the endorphins. He was there for hours!

Newton and Ben

Newton SMS to wallop more bananas to ensure maximum carbo and potassium loading. Ben Lim also missed the original run as he was caught up with work in Penang. Ben Lim told me "this time you can beat me because I haven't run in 2 weeks". At the back of my mind I say to myself..."even if you haven't run for 2 years, you will still beat me hands down". I mean how can you beat a person who runs like a machine.
I woke up 4:15 am before the alarm clock rang as my throat was dry and needed a drink.
It’s being a while since I parked my car at Bukit Aman. The last time I ran the double-hill was at least 9 months ago.

Hello Double-Hill

The NB vest was very tight fitting to the point my nipples protrude. Newton suggested I wear the Nike vest instead which I did bring along but I thought since this was an NB sponsored run, I am in a way obliged to wear it. No problems with the vest throughout the race.
Runners start and time themselves. Jamie took off like a rocket. I followed Newton from behind. Ben Lim was behind running with his camera. Just after the tunnel, I was panting....lack of training? My last run was 6 days ago. At the BNM KTM station my left knee for the first time in a race showed signs of sprain (?). My plan was to conserve stamina for the impending steep hill at Laman Tunku.

Shortly after entering Langgak Tunku, Ben caught up and started taking new angles with his camera. As soon as he finished taking the rear shots, he took off like a diesel powered locomotive. This man can run.

Did not feel I was in a race, was overtaken by at least 10 runners. At one point there was nobody in front or behind me as far as I can see.

Water Station

Somehow I was not thirsty when I took 2 cups of water from a water station setup strategically under the bus stop. Thank you Pacesetter volunteers! It was here that my race started. I overtook 2-3 runners and increase downhill pace. Coming down to National Monument I was clocking 69min-ish. I learnt from last year's run where I suffered in the Carcosa stretch because I did not foresee more hills.

Carcosa

Ran past a number of morning strollers and a few runners, I was now focusing to finish within 100 minutes. Entered Lake Gardens with increased pace. Bear in mind, there was a final long uphill ahead. Before the race started, I was informed to run straight up the hill, which means it is a shorter path than taking the deer/bird park route.

I finished in 93 mins. Met Newton and Ben who had taken the longer way but still finished way ahead.

Met friendly Penguin-2 in the washroom where he told me he was pacing with Ben. I told him I thought he was much faster of which he humbly said, "Penguins cannot run fast". I replied, "Turbo-Penguin can...".

My thoughts

I am happy with the outcome of this run not because I ran well but because despite of my incurable Tinnitus (ear-ringing) condition I was still able to sustain a 90+ min run. Dr.Sangara the ENT Specialist at Pantai Medical Center has twice reassured me I can continue with the distance running. I had my doubts. He was right.

29 May 2005

Tinnitus

2005-05-07T23:30:00.000+08:00

After 3 months and 2 ENT Specialists, my head is still ringing from the medical condition Tinnitus - ringing in the inner ear. Both specialists have indicated the condition may be permanent and there is no cure , I believe them. Will have to wait another 2 weeks before I go for an MRI head scan just to ensure nothing else grows inside my head.
It has affected my long distance running ability. More prone to nausea. I have also noticed I am more vocal than before during meetings.

KL International Marathon 2005

2005-03-06T15:11:00.000+08:00

After more than 3 months absence in racing, I was rather pleased to register for the KLIM 2005 half-marathon category. It is easy to say there was ample time to prepare for this race but it was not the case as Feb was a busy month – festival and office work. Weekly 8-10 lap run at the KLCC was absolutely boring because I hate running in circles! Had I not participated in this race, I would have settled for a 5km run at home.

Was advised by the seniors mileage is important. I try to sustain a 90 min run without water but after the 10th lap at KLCC, I hit the WALL. Later, I tried drinking after lap 8 but somehow it made it worse. Without fail, my upper right calf will tense up after lap 10. The furthest I have gone was lap 12, which is equivalent to 15.6kms. How did I finish the PJ Half-Marathon? Was it the PowerBar/Gel, racing adrenalin....?

Calm before the storm
I consumed more than 20 bananas a week before the race. I stopped running 5 days before the race but yet the right calf was showing signs of discomfort. I popped multi-vitamins,
spirulina, vitamin B-complex, vitamin E, fish oil, garlic, ginseng and eat catfish (ikan keli) with the hope it will expedite recovery of the muscles or tendon. Applied 3 types of analgesic: Sloans, Deep Heat and Counterpain. Yes, I was in a state of panic.

The night before the race, I went to bed at 10:30 pm but could only sleep past midnight. Mee Peng teased me and said “Kan Cheong ah?” (Translated from Cantonese “Excited ah?”)

Race Day
Woke up at 4:15 am, throat was dry after taking so many supplements. Drank a can of Gatorade. Once again, have to eat the super sweet Oatmeal Raisin PowerBar. Took me less than 20 mins to reach Dataran car park. Was glad to meet my training mates Newton and Ben Lim –their presence gave me a sense of tranquility. Met Kwok Foo who flew all the way from Switzerland, for the first time. Later met up with the regular KLCC kakis: Kenneth Teh, Rohaizad, Ronnie and CS.

With the Champion Chip, there were no worries of screw-up timing (unless the chip system is screwed). All runners will be running on an entirely new refreshing route.

The Storm
Not sure how it started but the moment we saw the crowd storming forward, it was the start already. As usual, Newton and I paced together. Just 2 mins into the run, a few runners were already pissing beside the Dayabumi tunnel. At the KTM roundabout, I saw quite a number of runners rushing into the KTM building (?). Are they going to take a train to town? It is possible to catch the KTM Komuter to Sentral, hop into the Monorail and get down at Jln Sultan Ismail’s Medan Tuanku station – the last leg of the race!

Reached Mid-Valley Megamall in 36:41, there was a chalked marker on the road that says 6km. Newton took off from here onwards. The organizers have improved tremendously by providing close intervals of sponge and water stations. Somewhere along the 9th km, I received a Lime Lemon Powergel. How generous! I swapped the gel with my own (expiring soon) and slurped the Tropical Fruit gel. Took 2 cups of water, drank the first one and as I was rinsing my hands with the second one, somebody shouted….

Ooi! Don’t waste the water!

It was Kenneth! Pacing with Rohaizad. I thought they would have been way ahead since they are much faster runners. Continued running the road that veered downhill to the left, joining the TUDM road leading back to the city. I could see the Petronas Twin Towers. Thank god there was no haze.

I heard a familiar voice from behind; it was Rohaizad. Ken asked me to pace with them, of which I replied I don’t think I could follow their pacing. There was the champion chip mat (10km?) again we saw at the start, I made sure I stepped on it twice, timing at this juncture was 1:03. After pacing with them for about 7 mins, I realized I was going too fast for my comfort. …when my greatest fear enveloped – my right calf began to show signs of distress.

Leg preservation
Running the flyover that connects to the Dewan Bahasa road, self-prognosis told me that my right leg is going to deteriorate if I do not slow down. (In PJ half last year, the same part of the leg muscle contracted after kilometer 17). The 10km category runners converged at Jln Imbi. Psychologically, the crowd gave me a sense of acceleration as most of them were walking. There were several runners whom I have treaded leads with since the Mid-valley Megamall section. They were also struggling to maintain pace.

Marriot Hotel
After taking the refreshments at Jln Imbi, I felt energized and started speeding towards Jln Bukit Bintang. I hallucinated Jln Sultan Ismail would be the home run. For the first time, I skipped the drink station here thinking I could save a couple of seconds since it could be just 2-3kms away from the finish line. It was such a long stretch; any small incline was an agony. At the end of Jln Sultan Ismail, turning left to Jln TAR, many runners were looking for second wind: to squeeze the last calorie, oxygen, that remained in their body. I was grunting openly “Argh! Urgh!”. Time: 1:55.

Dying of Thirst
From Sogo, I paid the price for not drinking at the last water station because by now my lips and throat were so dry that I could literally drink anything that was passed to me. I looked around and saw a sexy girl holding an Ambank water bottle. I was tempted to ask if she could let me drink a few gulps but was afraid she might misperceive me as “ham sap” (dirty guy). Embarrassment overcame dehydration.

Just before Dataran, I was overjoyed to see another table setup but my joy was short-lived because the folks told me the supply of water “sudah habis”. Desperation, at this point my focus was not about finishing but where to get WATER WATER WATER! I thought about scavenging the heaps of used/thrown water bottles. Another wacko idea that crossed my mind due to fatigue, was to grab/steal a bottled water from the mamak shop and tell them “Nanti saya bayar!”.

In the end, I grabbed 3 sponges from the pail, squeezed them above my head and drank whatever that dripped into my mouth. A bystander who was watching laughed at my antics. I almost wanted to put the whole sponge into my mouth.

The officials were vigilant to ensure the Half-Marathoners do the loop at the Jln Raja Laut junction and not head straight to Dataran. Good work.

Pertama Complex
I was going around Pertama Complex and had to slow to a walk for a few seconds to catch a breather. Time: 2:16. As I regain my jog, I was surprised to find Newton walking in front of me. Newton had earlier suffered cramps. He asked me to go ahead. At the back of my mind I was confident he would not have trouble finishing within qualifying time.

Last 200 meters
There was this lady runner with the yellow vest “PJ KU” doing a walk-run to the finishing line. I have been trailing her since the start of the race and at some stage lost sight of her. She was, like me facing exhaustion and probably thirst as well.

As I sprinted to the end, saw Ronnie aka PM1 with his friends sitting on the road, having finished much earlier despite injury. Waved at him and ran to the finish. Collected the larger than normal Finisher medal and almost forgot to stop my stopwatch. Finished in 2:24:02.

My thoughts
After the race, met up with Ben, Justin, Ken, Rohaizad, Kwok Foo, CS, Newton, Jamie and Linda. Ben Lim finished 1:57 and according to Mee Peng his effort looked like “21k is nothing for me”. Linda again triumphantly finished with a medal in the 10km category. Only managed a few photos as the camera ran out of battery. Damn!

My salutation goes to CS: for having the heart to compete the 21km distance after 18 years of absence; Newton: for his never die attitude to complete the race despite all odds and the maestro, Jamie for nailing the full marathon in sub-5 hours (sub-4 next?).
Congratulations to Ken too on his first half-marathon debut with an impressive timing.

Lastly, I must commend the organizers: Ambank and FTAAA for doing a good job this time as compared to last year. Significant improvements: Sound system, luggage area, massage, food, free flow of drinks, distinguishable finishing line and diligent officials.

Keep it up and WELL DONE!