Event: Comrades Marathon 2013
Venue: Durban, South Africa
Date: 2 June 2013
Time: 5.30am (South Africa time) / 11.30am (Malaysia time)
Distance: 86.96KM (88.15KM by Suunto Ambit)
Shoe: Saucony Kinvara 3
By Frank
Sorry my entry for the 2013 Comrades Marathon took so
long to complete. Going on holiday after the run, falling sick and flying back
to catch up with 3 weeks of work is certainly not blogging friendly. But I hope
the long read as follows will be worth it. And when I mean long, it's REALLY LONG!
The Comrades Marathon 2013 has come and go. It was my
first year as the Comrades Marathon Malaysia Ambassador as I brought along 4
other first timer to attempt The Ultimate Human Race together with 3 of us from
previous year. I initially wanted to combine both my holiday and race report together, but as I type, it quickly became a 15 page word document hence I guess it's better to have them on separate entries. Part of this entry, including those from the holiday was written during my 4 hours transit at
Dubai International Airport on the way home though.
Sunday 2 June 2013, 2.00am. GOOD MORNING DURBAN! I had about 6 hours of sleep and I woke up
feeling great! But I was not the first one up for Roy was already prepared to
do battle. I had 2 hours to prepare and that was all I need as my usual
pre-race ritual like breakfast and potty loo went smoothly. By 4am we all
gathered at the hotel lobby for a photo session before the ladies drove us to
the nearest drop-off point. We walked and jog a little to the City Hall and
quickly discovered that it is going to be a warm and long day. The morning this
year was so unlike previous. No ponchos were needed, not even gloves though I
brought along mine.
Calm and being wacky before the storm.
Just outside the H seeding, we wished everyone the best
of run especially to the first timers. Francis, CP, Roy, Kin Kok and of course
our special lady from Hong Kong, Celene. With 20 minutes to go, we all checked
into our seeding pent. I started the last H seeding which was really spacious. And with 10 minutes to go, everyone was
squeezed together and from H, we eventually ended up in F seeding. The national
anthem was sung first which I sung along with. Yes, I did my homework and I
know the lyrics. The locals must been thinking how that this Chinese know how
to sing? Then it was Shosholoza which made the entire Durban come alive.
Chariots of Fire was next and finally, Max Trimborn cockcrow. I started my
chrono here for this is the gun time! The cannon went off next and this was it!
It’s time to run the epic journey, for here goes Comrades Marathon 2013!
The starting pent.
Took me 7 minutes or so to cross the start gantry and off
I went settling into my comfort zone quickly. The earlier warming up and
stretching helped. The spectators lined up at the side were awesome cheering
the runners as we ran pass. This continued till we entered the highway and soon
it was Berea, the old toll-gate area. And this is where I spotted Susan Hui who
was clad in almost everything Canadian and ran to her. Before the race, she
kept telling me not to roll her over and this is probably the reason she dashed
off after the short chat. Grin…
Alan Robb, 4 times champion and one of the legends of Comrades Marathon running his 40th this year. He always wears his Liverpool FC cap and red socks.
I continued on my journey and the climb started almost
here. It wasn't really steep here but we kept climbing and this is where energy
and strength is slowly being zap away. I may be good in hills, but I did not want
to risk it and just maintained a reasonable pace. The highway was twisting too and soon, I saw
Ric and greeted this friend of mine before bumping into Renee next! It was
really great to see my old friends during the run. At a water station at about
7.5KM near Mayville, there was this 2 tier road. Most runners took the lower
tier but seeing less runners on the upper and also I still had by GU Roctane
Brew drink with me, I took advantage of it. And during the process, I spotted
Fook Seong who was dashing into the crowd of runners grabbing the water
sachets.
Fast forwarding to 10KM, I took off my gloves as it was
getting really warm and passed it to a poor local who was collecting clothes
and anything being threw away by the runners. It was also here that I spotted
the Unogwajas. Simply awesome people who have cycled more than 1600KM 10 days
before the run from Cape Town to Durban to re-live the Phil-Masterston-Smith
experience. There were singing, screaming and jumping as they run. But most
important, they had their knee length red socks on, and they went “SHOOOOPSS…”.
Into Cowie's Hill while munching on a potato.
Next, we exited the highway and into the first of big 5
hills, Cowie’s Hill we went. And just as we entered, the Potato Nation tent was
there and I took the opportunity to grab half a salty potato and munch it down.
Absolutely delicious! And further ahead, I spotted my very dear “pinkish”
friend, Caroline! She was in her usual Morningside club top but had this pink
wig on her in support of Pink Drive. Way to go, Caroline! I am not entirely
sure the distance, but according to the result site, I arrived at Cowie’s Hill
cut-off point of 17KM in 2:01:26 hours and am still awfully good!
Running on into Pinetown, I was busy searching for Susan
Bold but to no avail. She mentioned she will be here at the club tent to
support but I guess I must have missed it. There were just too many runners and
supporters here. But the next challenge is to conquer the climb here to Fields
Hill. And it won’t be easy as it’s a long way up. The road was still twisting
and some places came into my mind from last year’s run. Nightmare of the down
run, or reliving the experience again, I welcomed the latter. It’s Comrades
after all.
And from Pinetown, next on the menu is the second of the
big 5, Field’s Hill. This was rather steep and long too. And although still
feeling strong, I took it easy still maintaining my “economy” mode, as the race
generally “has not started yet”. There were already runners walking and the
weather began to warm up. I finished my GU Roctane Brew here, later than
expected as I had a few sachet of water earlier, so generally speaking for
nutrition, everything was going on well.
And just before exiting Field’s Hill, I made a “small
deposit” at the shaded bush by the road side. Must be the caffeine effect from
the GU Roctane Brew kicking in. But no worries as I was still fresh and
continued running being cheered by the supporters and locals. Some even sang,
and to my favourite tune Shosholoza which entirely lifted the spirits of not
only the runners but also the surrounding.
Next was the pretty shaded Winston Park. Though roads
were still winding and we are still climbing hills, I was still having fun,
well in a way running with the hundreds and perhaps thousands of other runners
nearby. But I knew I had to focus for I know my family and friends are watching
back home. My mission is at stake and the pressure I have is one thing that
kept me going. Pressure does help in a way!
Awesome support!
But out of a sudden, I spotted Roy who was walking.
Honestly speaking, I am not expecting to meet him during the run for I expected
him to be far away at the front, even though if he have to walk. I quickly
caught up with him to check it out. Apparently he was feeling tired and so I
decided to accompany him here for a while. I do need to rest my legs a bit too
I guess. Tried to pull him along by telling him that we shall start running
upon arriving at a bus parked at the road side. And so we did, but he fell off
soon and signalled to me to go ahead. Did not feel good to let him go, but I
guess I had no other choice, hence I ran into Hillcrest.
Entering Hillcrest with a huge reminder of the first cut-off at Drummond.
And at Hillcrest, some 34KM into the run, for somehow,
among the many runners, supporters and club tents, I managed to spot Chee
Kong’s running club tent, the Fourway Road Runners! And just before arriving at
it, I WAS SO HAPPY to see Cham and Khim! Always great to see familiar faces in
tough runs like this. Waved to them and Cham spotted me and took some of my
action photos! Thanks a lot! Told them about Roy before I carried on and spotted
Mei-Ee and little Xi Ning just ahead.
Happily arriving at Hillcrest and spotting my fellow ladies supporters.
The third of the big 5 was next, Botha’s Hill. Another
crazy climb under the hot and dry weather. Noon was approaching and the sun was
burning through our skin. I began to
witness some runners beginning to fall, limp, twitch and even throwing up. This
isn’t the game about distance and hills anymore. It’s about tackling Mother
Nature, and who to blame but our ownselves for destroying the environment.
I managed to Botha’s Hill successfully with some walking.
No signs of cramping nor fatigue yet so I guess system is still all “green”. A
quick check on my watch, I was still on time for a bronze medal with a 15
minutes buffer. This was in fact the first time I check my watch! But without
wasting time in time calculation, I just focused on my next destination, half-way
point at the town of Drummond. And this is the place where the view and scenery
began to look spectacular for the route now overlooks the Valley of 1,000
Hills. I’m glad we did the route tour ourselves 2 days ago as I guess runners
can’t be really enjoying it while running. The pain will probably spoil the
view.
The local Zulus were out to support too.
As it was a valley, the route from Botha’s Hill to
Drummond is of a rolling downwards kind.
It wasn't really bad as it gave varieties to the poor legs. I guess that
is the reason why it is call the Road to Recovery. The route here was pretty
shaded but before we exited into the sun again, the GAME support station which
was rather huge was rehydrating the runners and also in the meantime giving out
stalk of flowers to be thrown at Arthur’s Seat just somewhere ahead. And so I
grab one and shouldered on. And shortly in front, someone called my name from
the distance front. I ran closer to her and I spotted Manette, a friend I made
during my 6 days circuit race! Absolutely delighted to see her as she offered
me lot of food and beverage before I carry on with my journey. I however just
needed water hence that is what I got. Thanks Manette very much!
And finally, the Wall of Honour appeared as some runners
ran toward it to remember their friends or to simply put a flower on their
heroes wall plate. It’s not only a wall, but a place of inspiration and
strength. It’s a stronghold of many
Comrades runners bind together!
The plate of Bill Rowan, the first champion back in year 1921 at the Wall of Honour.
Next stop, Arthur’s Seat, basically a small little hole
dug out by Arthur Newton to have a rest many years ago. Many threw the flowers
there, and so I threw mine too followed by a greeting “GOOD MORNING SIR”!. Now
let’s hope for a blessing for legend says, that runners enjoy a stronger second
half of the race if the correct ritual is performed.
Finally Drummond, half-way point at 43KM in
5:14:40
hours. And yes, the buffer is still on, but the next tackle was Inchanga, the
steepest climb. Now I understand why the road to Drummond is call the Road to
Recovery. It is to prepare the legs for this climb! And I believe this big hill
is where most runners suffered “suspension” and “engine” failures. Never ending
snake twisting climbs, it was really sore to the eyes but majestic at the same
way too, looking it from a distance where runners in front filled the roads.
Rehydrating at Drummond.
And so like most others, my legs began to shown signs of
failure. The first sign was twitching. I’ve now switched to the run walk
technique. But sadly, I am not a good walker hence am really slow in this
department. But when things started to turn, I spotted yet another friend,
David from Singapore. We ran and walk together while chatting keeping our minds
away from the pain and sore. It did really help as we managed a certain distance
without much suffering.
Tackling Inchanga and cam-whoring with David.
Soon, Inchanga was conquered and was behind now as we
took a slight plunge into Harrison Flats. Nope, this place isn’t flat. Instead
there are small unnamed hills. Weather was getting really hot now and to make
matters worse, there were strong head wind blowing towards the runners.
Distance markers began to fall and dust began flying around. It even irritated
my eyes even with my sunglasses on. That is how strong the wind is! And after
so many years, this is where I suffered my first cramp reminding me how it felt
like. It was on my left calf and I nearly took a tumble but managed to stay on
foot. Stopped running and try reaching for my left calf to have it massage. I
guess about 5 minutes was used here before the cramp subside. Off I went
limping and hopping, hoping that it will better, and better it did. In fact, I
ran faster for I remember the advise from my mentor Luc telling me to run a
little fast to shake off the cramp. I guess it still works for me!
The sights of runner laying on the road side, throwing up
or even hallucinating is really heart breaking. Support were given by the local
supporters and the runners rescue bus (some sort of ambulance) is moving
around swiftly. Even medical on bikes were on patrol.
Upon arrival at Cato Ridge at about 60KM into the race,
the supporters group grew larger and this has really motivated tired runners to
carry on. It’s not easy but some of us will find strength somewhere and
somehow. And for me, I was still running, limping, huffing and puffing all I
can. And when I grew wonky, I will look down on my purple shoe lace and also my
purple ribbon to find my own strength.
Supporters from The Unlimited.
My strength faded, at least for a while when I suffered
double cramps on my adductor (inner thighs). Both sides came at the same time
and you as a reader, try imagining how I stood there. Funny sight I guess but
painful for me. But the good thing was, I was very close to the next water
station hence I grin my teeth together and limp towards it seeking ice. And
when I got there, a very young lad kindly broke a cube of ice into smaller
pieces as I used them to massage my adductor. It helped a lot and I am really
thankful to him. And before I left, I gave him a high 5!
Looking forward to Camperdown for I know the support group
will be the largest here. Along the jorney there, I bumped into Eric Economon, another friend from the 6 days circuit race. He was running his worse Comrads Marathon according to him. Honestly, he looked awful here. I walked and chatted with him for at least 500M or so before I continued on when my legs felt ready to run. And not far then, I heard the sounds of Camperdown. And this is where the Nedbank Green Mile is going to
be at this year. And upon arrival there at
7:41:45 hours into the race, the
support group did not disappoint. There was this gigantic big screen showing
the runners and there was an emcee commentating. He did mentioned my name on my
bib which was “Wei Siong” and he mentioned that I was from South Korea and that
I will have known the Gangnam Style! I was stun to hear that. Do I look like a
South Korean?
Thumbs up at Camperdown.
Huge support at the Nedbank Green Mile.
Anyway, if you look at my above arrival time at
Camperdown where I still had 26KM to go, I’ve actually managed to increase my
buffer for the bronze medal by another couple of minutes. Maybe it was the
blessing from Arthur Newton, or perhaps the sheer pressure I had, but for some
reason, I found my strength to run faster from Drummond despite cramping 3
times and with toes starting to blister. Amazing and this I give myself a pat
on my own shoulder!
"BEWARE" the official photographers travelling along the race route.
Sadly, the above did not last as I struggled heading
towards the highest point at Umlaas Road. Both my legs were twitching and that
was the sign of cramping again. After suffering 3 times not too long ago, I
will not want to experience it another time hence took good care of my legs. As
for the others, runners began to drop to the road like flies being smack down!
Just too many of them and most were local South Africans. I guess that they
can’t take the scorching heat. And finally, I arrived at Umlaas Road where the journey to Ashburton next is of a
descend type.
The highest point at Umlaas Road.
Wind so strong it completely blew down and rip apart the distance marker from its frame.
Most runners ran. For myself, it was a mixture of run,
walk, limp and hop for I am really not good with descend especially when the
legs were already at this very sorry state. But I managed myself and finally
arrived at the “appetiser” of the final big climb, the younger brother of the 2
Pollys, Little Pollys of of Ashburton. Steep but short climb, runners had the
local by the roadside for motivational support. Some were soon braaing by the
roadside, some were spraying water over the overheated runners, some were
blowing their vuvuzelas, some were giving out food and drinks and some were
coming out to us to offer any help they can give. Welcome to South Africa,
welcome to the Comrades Marathon, I told myself, for it was a touching scene
that I will remember.
Upon conquering Little Pollys, it was a short downhill
dash to the foot of the next monster. Enter the monstrous Polly Shortts, the last of the 5 big hills.
1.7KM worth of climbing when one has ran 78KM or so is no joke. At the foot of
Polly Shortts, there was this local South African runner who is a 5 times
Comrades finisher said to me “Here we go again”! I replied to him, “OH YEAH!
Bring on Polly Shortts for the next will be the home stretch”. Sounds like a
battle cry for us, but the funny thing is, we both walked. Hahaha… Polly
Shortts is known to kill off both physical and mental strength of a Comrades
runner hence I did not want to risk it for both my adductor (inner thighs),
were twitching. Am being a slow walker, he just surged ahead walking. However,
there were 2 local ladies from Mpumalanga, South Africa who came into the
picture. It was both their back to back runs too and we shared our stories from
last year’s run and also both our countries. This took our mind away from the
climb. Sadly, we were so much into talking that I did not get their names.
After walking a third quarter of Polly Shortts, I began
to run after hearing music being played. I am nearing the top! And so, I picked
up my broken pieces and ran. Struggled did I, but I ran and soon, the space began
to open up and finally, I was at the top of Polly Shortts in
10:30:35 hours
with the emcee congratulating everyone “CONGRATZ FOR YOU HAVE SURVIVED POLLY
SHORTTS”! Oh yeah! Survived did I, but did anyone mentioned that there are more
unnamed small hills to run by? 7.7Km worth of that and this is what we call the
home stretch? Indeed a do or die situation. ONWARD!
My assault on Polly Shortts.
The remaining 7.7KM was dramatic indeed. More and more
runners fell, but more and more support came. “YOU ARE ALMOST THERE! DO NOT
GIVE UP NOW”! I told a fellow local South African. He was experiencing
difficulties standing up not to mention running. I stop by to support him, but
I did not had any nutrition with me. Shortly, the 2 ladies from Mpumalanga
arrived and gave him a sachet of energy gel. I dashed to a supporter by the
roadside to ask for a cup of water and went back to the poor runner. He took
the gel and washed it down his throat and told me “YOU WASTED ENOUGH TIME WITH
ME, NOW GO”! The 2 ladies told me to continue on my journey too as they will
watch over him. I obliged, gave them a hug and off I went.
Soon, I arrived at the traffic junction which I clearly
remember. It was like the second or third final turn before we enter The Oval.
And this is where the Pink Drive support station is. Pink Drive is South Africa
most well-known Breast Cancer Foundation and I was really delighted to see the
tremendous support given by them. Next was the outskirts of the
Pietermaritzburg city. On the road were drawings of Rhino to support the anti-poaching
move. From here, I saw the flood flights of a certain stadium. I thought it was
The Oval but I was wrong. There was still another Kilometer to go and I swear
that this must have been the longest Kilometer of my run.
Arriving soon just outside The Oval.
Caught at the entrance to The Oval.
Unlike the previous year, there was no sudden surge for
me this year as I had enough time to complete the run. I took it easy, took out
my last sachet of water and sprayed all over me to clear the salts on my body
and clothings, and finally took out the Malaysia flag from my belt pocket and
held it on my back as I finally entered The Oval. And the first person I saw
was Pierre by the club tent at the entrance! I was ecstatic to see him but I
continued for there is about another 400M or so. The environment here was
electrifying for the supporters by the side was screaming, cheering and hitting
the side board to help push us to the finish.
Taking the last bent in The Oval heading towards the finish.
Finally, I saw it. The finish gantry is just a bend away.
I lifted the Malaysia flag proudly again and with emotional set at a record
high, I crossed the finish line victoriously in 11:30:07 hours with my head,
hands and Malaysia flag held high! I DID IT! I AM A BACK TO BACK COMRADES
MARATHONER! WOOHOOO!!! I gave the Comrades grass a pat and saw Sian in the
process. Went to here to thank her for being part of this and we chatted a
little. She asked about the rest and I told her that there should be another 3
Malaysians coming in soon before I exited the finish gantry area for it was
getting crowded.
Into the medal receiving area, the volunteers were all
with smiles congratulating each and every runner. And when I exited this area,
another volunteered pointed to me and ask me to get to him for the back to back
medal awaits! I joked to him that it was painful as I limp my way there and he
finally put the medal over my head and gave me a hug! And with it, I pose
proudly with both my medals to the official photographers.
As I went to collect my refreshment which sadly ran out,
I met up with a Chinese local, Wayne. Finally caught up with him after seeing
him comment so much on Facebook. And out of a sudden, a local South African
pass me a bottle of Energade. I was so thankful to him and I taught him the
Chinese way of thanking. And from here,
I finally exited the finish area and into the waiting area.
My story was over, but not for 3 more friends of mine. It
was a nail biting moment for 3 more Malaysians, Roy, Fook Seong and Kin Kok. I
was really anxious as the time was slowly ticking away. It was about 15 minutes
more when I suddenly head the commentator mentioned that a Malaysian just
entered the Oval. I dashed to the international exit and waited but to no
avail. As the clock ticks away, I was biting my nails when I suddenly saw Fook
Seong on the big screen! I screamed “COME ON” for he had less than a minute to
go. Then the countdown began. 10, 9, 8…. 3, 2 and 1, and Dave Dixon, the
chairman of the Comrades Marathon Association fired the gun to signal the cut
off time of 12 hours.
I waited anxiously and finally, Fook Seong appeared with
2 medals hung around his neck. I was relieved to know that he successfully
completed the run with a dramatic 22 seconds to go! He did not feel well and
proceeded to the international tent. I walked around and finally spotted the
rest of the Malaysian which includes Roy. He apparently pulled out at 34KM at
Botha’s Hill due to chest discomfort. It was really sad to know and I lost my
words. Knowing that he trained so hard, it was a bitter blow. But I salute him
for being brave enough to call it day when something is not right.
Together with Francis, we accompanied Fook Seong for a
while for he was in a daze. There were other runners around too who didn't look
too good themselves too. Some were throwing up while some others cramping. But in their agony, I do however am able to
see their happy and victorious feeling of being able to conquer the Comrades
Marathon, well at least some of them. Met up with a few fellow runners which
includes Bruce Hargreaves and congratulated each other. And when everything
finally sets in and Fook Seong feeling much better, we made our way out to
regroup with the others for story sharing and also photo session before we made
our way back to Durban.
Waking up from a daze and also come minor cramps.
We came, we ran and we conquered the Comrades Marathon 2013.
Back at the hotel, it was certainly not easy to clean
myself up as I was still cramping. Mobility
was rather minimal so yeah, it wasn't easy moving around. The rest was
celebrating at Jiran Café, but I opt to stay back to rest and also to accompany
Roy. Cham herself was also too tired and I salute and thank her for the awesome
support given. An energy bar and hot chocolate was all I had before turning in
for the night with bitter sweet dreams throughout my sleep. It’s the Comrades
dream.
86.96KM of EPICNESS!
My official timing.
The Malaysian contingent official timing.
Comrades Marathon once again live up to its expectations of being the greatest road ultra marathon and one of the toughest to be. The distance may not be even 100KM, but the 5 big hills, many other unnamed smaller hills, tight cut off time, weather and the support will make one coming back for more. For me, I will for once after this back to back, my next journey will be the green number. But before looking to far ahead, here's sharing some moments during the race which wasn't mentioned above:
1) About 14,500 runners started the race with a drop out rate of 30%, the highest in 20 years as the temperature soared up to 32 Celcius.
2) Was trying really hard for bronze but had to let it go at Little Pollys although I still had some buffer time. Besides feeling horrible on the legs, another reason was to help support other fellow runners to reach the finish in time. The drama just after Polly Shortts was certainly rewarding enough. No bronze never mind. But knowing the bond we made with other runners is more than gold.
3) As I was running on the right side, I basically gave a "High 5" to each and every children from Ethembeni School of Handicap. Most had vision problem while some others albino. What they did was just to have their palms out and we runners will go and give them whatever support we can. And in return was a feeling like no other. And some say, the additional strength to surge ahead.
The kids at Ethembeni School of Handicap.
4) My race apparel was covered in salt as there were whitish spots all over. I used water from the sachets to clean myself off whenever I can find them. The water also help to cool my temperature down.
5) Had chaffing and irritation issues on my left ribs area and also both my thigs probably cause by some prawns I had a week earlier at Ocean Basket. Skin was a little torn and it was no fun running with them.
6) Suffered 1 cramp on left calf, 2 cramps on both adductor and 2 blisters on both big toes.
7) Not much weird names this time compared to previous year but was still called China, Jackie Chan and Korean with Gangam Style.
8) Finished all my energy gel, 2 GU Roctanes and 4 GU Energy Gel as planned but did not touch on the GU Chomps. Had solid food instead.
Close-up of the 2013 Vic Clapham medal and the Back to Back medal.
My dedication to CARIF and to everyone affected by cancer.
So yeah. There you have it. I hope I have been detailed enough about this entry to remember the Comrades Marathon 2013 in many years to come, well at least for me I hope. It has been an incredible journey heading to this epic race and though I am happy it's over, a part of me is sad to go into the waiting game again for the next edition. And as usual, before ending this super long entry and
closing off the chapter for the Comrades Marathon 2013, I would like to
sincerely thank the following (in no particular order):
- Professor Dr. Teo, Sook Yee, Jane, Amy and all others
from CARIF who have supported me and also initiating the Be Frank campaign in
helping not only my dream but also other’s in helping build a cancer free
tomorrow.
- Kris and Jeannie of SimplyGiving.com in helping out with the
online portal for the Be Frank campaign.
- Bennie, Tatyana and Lyana for their sweat and hardwork
on giving ideas and building the main website for the Be Frank campaign.
- Joanne and Sarah from Priority Communications for the all
the public relation works for the Be Frank campaign.
- Chee Kong and Mei-Ee for their very warm hospitality once
again in hosting me at beautiful South Africa.
- Roy, CP, Francis, Fook Seong and Kin Kok for the
“Comrades”ship and friendship that bonded us so strongly together for this
meaningful race. Together with Chee Kong, I am really proud of all of you!
- Khim and Cham for their absolutely great companionship
during the holidays together and also for their great support during race day.
- My Malaysian friends Peter and Estee who are working in
South Africa for a short but absolute great time together.
- My South African
and international friends consisting of Susan Hui, Celene, Caroline, Bruce
Fordyce, Bruce Hargreaves, Barry, Anthony, Susan Bold, Allan, Pierre, Renee,
Phillip, Johann, Moosa, Willie, Belinda, John, Ric, Manette, Spike, Goodwin, Mark,
Mike and many more whom I have made along the way of this 17 days trip.
- The Comrades Marathon Association for believing in me in
accepting me as the ambassador for Malaysia. And also not forgetting to finally
meet up with Sian, Thami and Mbali.
- My friends back home like Susanah, Jason, Hong Lan, Yik
Yee, Tey and many others more that has supported not only myself but also the
rest of the contingent.
- My sponsors Saucony, GU Energy, Yurbuds, LifeStrength,
Drymax and Optic Nerve for proving all the necessary training and race gear
that powered me to this year’s achievement.
- And last but not least, to my parents for all the
sacrifices made during the 6 months period of time from the day I officially
started training to race day.
YOU ARE ALL ULTRAORDINARY!!! Till Comrades Marathon 2014!
* Photos are courtesy of Cham, Khim, Mei-Ee, Chee Kong, Sean Wong, David Wong, Claudia and Jetline Action Photo
* My journey is tracked by the Suunto Ambit and the date can be found on this
MOVES.
