BH G5 - A New Century Begins Now...

By Frank

OK OK... I managed to keep this low profile long enough. I had the intention to upgrade my road bike since I completed the Powerman 2009. Although I really like my Merida Road Race 905-Com, I have to admit that it couldn't satisfy me. The bike was a really value-for-money buy, but I kind of struggle with it especially when it comes to climbing. No idea why, but it's certainly a poor climber that even my brandless steel mountain bike from my past is even much better. Besides, the crank was damaged during my fall at the recent Malakoff Interstate Fellowship Ride 2009/2010. It's possible to change just the crank, but since my intention of an upgrade is there, why not just change the whole thing?

And so the decision was made after Powerman 2009. I didn't inform anyone on this though. Back to the drawing board I went, doing my research from the Internet and scouting some models out from the local bike shop. I'm not really good at road bike technologies so I did my own studies and shortlisted a few bikes.

After close to 2 months of homework, I finally shortlisted 3 models which are the BH G5, Scott CR1 Pro and Cervelo P2C. The Cervelo P2C which is a tri-bike looks super cool but I later omitted it from my list due to my riding preferences. With 2 bikes left, I got really confused with the BH G5 and Scott CR1 Pro. I don't deny I'm leaning towards the BH G5, but the Scott CR1 Pro didn't fail to interest me too, especially when it comes to price.. However, I am a little suspicious with Scott's frame built and geometry. Therefore with this, I finally let the cat out of the bag and went for advice from Eugene, who has an in-thing for bikes. With about 3 weeks of advice from him and with me running to and from each shops to compared both bikes, I finally settled for the BH G5 as my suspicion for the Scott CR1 Pro is proven correct (no offense to Scott fans and riders). Besides, the geometry of the BH G5 suits me better for my needs according to Eugene.

The BH G5 Global Concept frame...

Bike building in progress...

BH (Beistegui Hermanos) is a Spanish bike company and is currently sponsoring the Team AG2R LaMondiale. The frame designed in Spain and USA is built from Taiwan I guess, where most bikes comes from. The BH G5 Global Concept frame being the highest end from the BH family, weights in at about 810 grams. I built the BH G5 from scratch due to budget constraints. Therefore, I selected the components based on my needs and budget too. In the end, though scaled down, I was really happy on how it turned out as initial ride with the bike took my breath away as it sent me "flying". The specifications are as follows:

Frame: BH G5 Global Concept size S (54)
Fork: BH Global Concept by Edge Composites
Shift levers: Shimano Ultegra ST-6700
Brakes: Shimano Ultegra BR-6700
Front derailleur: Shimano Ultegra FD-6700
Rear derailleur: Shimano Ultegra RD-6700
Bottom bracket: Shimano Ultegra SM-BB6700
Crank: Shimano Ultegra FC-6700 Standard 53-39T
Cassete: Shimano Ultegra CS-6700 12-25
Chain: Shimano Ultegra CN-6700
Headset: FSA Orbit CE Plus Carbon
Stem: FSA OS 120
Dropbar: 3T Ergosum LTD
Saddle: ISM Adamo Road Race
Seatpost: BH Global Concept IST Carbon
Pedal: Look Keo Classic
Tires: Panaracer Closer
Wheelset: Mavic Aksium
Weight: 7.89KG

My new ride weights in at 7.89KG...

With the new bike, I do hope to cycle more this year unlike last year. A wake up call from Keat Seong on new year's eve did remind me on how weak I am in road cycling. And hopefully with this wake up call and new machinery, I'm able to perform better at cycling events this year, and also the main one at Powerman 2010. Let's pedal!

The BH G5...

Malakoff Interstate Fellowship Ride 2009/2010...

Event: Malakoff Interstate Fellowship Ride 2009/2010
Venue: Juru AutoCity, Seberang Perai, Penang
Date: 31 December 2009 / 1 January 2010
Time: 7.00am
Distance: 220KM over 2 days (149KM on 1st day and 71KM on 2nd day)
Bike: Merida Road Race 905-Com
By Frank

To end the year and to start a new one with a bike ride. Sounds interesting but things didn't turn out smoothly, at least for me. Pretty worried about this ride since I just did my MR25 Ultra Marathon 2009 a few days back and though I didn't go all out during the run, running 63KM on trail followed by a 220KM bike ride over 2 days is certainly going to be tough. Sorry legs.

Pre-ride days...
Returning from Singapore, I only had a day's rest before leaving for Penang on 29 December 2009. Left about 7.15am and in less than 4 hours time, I arrived at my destination and met up with Lynn at Juru Autocity where she guided me to her house at Seberang Perai. Then it's lunch and a tour around the island sight seeing and also enjoying some of the local delights. Chin Chin did join us although just for a brief moment. I finally checked into Tune Hotel at the island before Lynn made her way home back at the mainland in the late evening.

The next day, Chin Chin bought me around to some temples after breakfast with Alan and Kenneth. After doing so, I left for Lynn's house as Keat Seong and Jennifer just arrived. The 4 of us had lunch together before making our way back to meet up with Shih Ming, Saya and Pat who arrived shortly later. And soon, we made our way to our chalets at Safira Resort which was nearby. Rested and prepared our gears while waiting for the others like Steven, Eric, Lian Meng, Poh Seng, Raymond and Michelle to arrive which they did at about 5pm before making our way to the island for dinner and dessert. Then it's back to the chalet for an early rest as a long ride awaits the next day.

31 December 2009. Day 1 of the ride...
I did not have a good rest as I was disturbed by a SMS that came in at 1.30am. Besides, I wasn't too comfortable with the bed as I was scratching all over, probably due to bed bug. Yikes... By the time I woke up at 3.30am, Keat Seong was already munching on his breakfast. By 5.30am, Lynn was here and everyone was ready to drive to Juru Autocity.

Before the ride...

Arrived, registered, clear the bowels, gear up, some photos and we are ready to roll. But that's not what the organisers had in mind as the event was delayed for a good 15 minutes. Only at 7.30am that some 700 cyclists both on road bikes and mountain bikes were flagged off. I waited with Lynn, Chin Chin, Shih Ming, Saya and Pat and only started pedalling when most of the cyclist has left.

All ready to roll, I mean ride...

Traffic was really heavy but the marshalls did tried their best to control it. Besides, the road were really bumpy due to cracks and holes. Not cyclist friendly. And I can't explain much of the road or locations as I'm not really familiar with it. I try my best though.

We entered some industrial area before hitting the trunk roads heading towards Kedah I think. Soon, Shih Ming and Saya overtook me and I was left with Lynn, Chin Chin and Pat. We were almost at the rear of the pack but that doesn't matter as this isn't a race. Nothing much to enjoy I will say as most of the times, my eyes were down on the road trying to avoid incoming pot holes. My left knee were giving problems as early as 30KM and I had to stretch on the bike while still in motion. My right was hanging on but the sore from MR25 ultra marathon soon too took over my quadriceps.

As I did not have any energy gels with me, I had to rely on my 2 bottles of diluted Endurox R4 and also 2 small packs of raisins. And I have to take them a little early before my energy depletes as the nutrients from the raisins will take a little longer time to enter my bloodstream as it's a solid food. And the first pack went in at about 40KM before the first feeding station came into the picture which was in a petrol station. Refueled and did all the necessary check here before continuing on with the journey.

By about 60KM, my legs were in pain already and I was tired. My energy was somehow on a critical level and with another 100KM to go, I hesitated taking the last small pack of raisins as I might need it later. Besides, I was thinking that the next feeding station was another 20KM plus away which was true enough when I arrived at the Bukit Merah Resort looking half dead. Limped to grab 2 cups of isotonic drinks before taking in 2 bananas and off I went to rest and stretch my poor legs.

The rest was pretty long and I benefited from it as I restarted the race pretty fresh. However, when things got better, I suffered a puncture at about the 100KM mark. Lynn saw me pulled to the side and she stopped and helped me change the puncture while the marshalls too came to assist. Most of the job were done by Lynn and I really felt useless here. She did everything right from the first to the last step and it's my bike's tyre she' changing. And what is the owner doing? Passing her the equipments. Sigh...

Restarted the ride, but I guess the time spent on rectifying the puncture took it's toll on me as my legs kind of lock up. I tried to keep pace with Lynn which I barely did only till the third and last feeding station at about 117KM. I took my last pack of raisins here but I guess it was too late as I kind of "hit the wall" here. Lynn left with Chin Chin and Pat while I pedalled on my own. Barely any other cyclist around me but I still lost control at times as vision was little poor. I went off the road a few times and I kept my fingers cross that I won't suffer another puncture again.

Things got nasty at about 125KM when I was crossing a busy junction. Came this blue Toyota Innova bearing plate number PHK 8525 which did not want to give way and rush through the junction like the road was his. And so, my natural reaction was to brake which I did and just tumbled to my left side as I was still on my clipless pedals. Immediately when I landed, it was my left knee that hit the ground first before I sat on the road. Instantly, my pain receptor sent the signal to my brain teling it, it was downright painful. And what did the driver of the vehicle did? He just drove off looking amused. The marshall who witness my mishap came over to ask if I was all right and radioed the sweeper car. Told him I was little stun but still all right. Took a rest by the side and walk a little to shake off the pain before resuming.

Shortly after I resumed my ride, the sweeper car came and ask me to hop on. He told me to hop on as he learnt of my fall earlier and also seeing how slow I was pedalling. I pleaded to him to allow me to finish the ride as it was just another 20KM to go. I assure him that I will finish it and he gave me the green light to carry on. I tried to go on my aerobar when I have the chance as this gave me the speed though my trapezius was already sore that time. With 10KM to go, again the sweeper car came. Without giving him a chance to ask me to hop in, I told him just another 10KM to go before the marshall gave me a thumbs up and drove off.

The last 5KM was pretty long maybe because I was really tired. And to make it worst, there was a few climbs and the last turning was a tough one at a busy junction. I was really in pain at the last section heading back to Juru Autocity and was really hoping that someone will be be able to pull me. Then came Lynn, Chin Chin and Pat from behind me when I thought they should be way ahead already. I wonder when did I overtake them but it doesn't matter anymore as they zoomed past me heading towards the finish. However, Jennifer who also came from behind shortly later slowed down and pulled me along which I was really grateful of. I was really suprised that she was the one who help pull me and I really appreciated it a lot. She kept feeding me with motivational words as I was already in tears from the pain of my left knee.

Into Juru Autocity Jennifer guided me and soon we arrived at the finish. Keat Seong was there to welcome Jennifer back and too help me while I hobbled to report myself before just settling down with my other friends. While icing the area of pain, my friends saw my painful look and I'm sure some of you will want to ask me if I actually had tears in my eyes. I admit there was as the pain was downright unbearable and I was worried about the extend of the inury as there are big races coming real soon. And though I had no appetite to eat, I forced a plate of fried rice down with plenty of fluid as I do not want to faint later.

After getting some energy back, I left with the others back to the chalet for a well deserve shower and rest while I look into my injuries. My left knee just below the patella was swollen with a lump in it and movement was really limited.

Everyone took a nap before waking up for dinner at about 6pm. Lynn, Chin Chin, Shih Ming, Saya, Pat and Lie Wei decided to head over to the island for dinner thus leaving the rest of us to ourselves. We headed to the nearby Sunway Carnival Mall and had a simple but huge portion of dinner. As for me, I bought some pain relievers and a bandage to help with my left knee before returning to the chalet alone as we waited till about 11pm before wishing everyone a HAPPY 2010 and then turning in. We all basically slept through the year although I wish for something more spending my time with my friends. But I guess everyone was tired.

1 January 2010. Day 2 of the ride...
HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone! Only had about 3 hours of sleep and my left knee was still painful. But being stubborn and setting a bad example here, I decided to ride for I know I will regret it if I don't.

Breakfast was plain simple as appetite was poor. But I just had to eat for I know today's ride will be tough and I will need the energy now for I won't get any during the ride except from the 2 packs of raisins I have. And I even took 2 pain relievers to help with the pain and I hope it will last throughout the race which I doubt so.

Checked out from the chalet and left for Juru Autocity at 6.30am. Again, the start was delayed till 7.30am. But at least we did not have to spend too much time this time as by the time we got ready, it was already time. I started with Shih Ming and Saya as we made our way to the 13.8KM Penang Bridge. Though I have a difficult start as my left knee refuse to cooperate with me in flexing, it was really nice to ride across the bridge enjoying dawn breaking there. Legs got into the groove just before the climb up the bridge and that's where I took off. However, just when things go better, Pat passed me to inform me that my saddle bag is coming off. I did not want to stop on the bridge as it was dangerous for myself and others so I carried on till Queesbay Mall when I stop to restrap it. By the time I restarted, I was already almost the last cyclist.

At 25KM, comes the first climb. I only manage to conquer the first 2 before I stopped halfway at the third as it was just too steep and my left knee was hurting. Had no choice but to walk up and many others did the same too. It was a mountain bikers game here and I swear that my cheap brandless mountain bike of my past racing days can climb even better than my road bike here.

As I continue walking, I was really surprised that I bumped in to Shih Ming and Saya. They just completed rectifying a puncture on Shih Ming's bike and soon they continue on. However, I soon bump into them again together with Jennifer as the climb was just too steep. Kept going and going till we saw the feeding station marker near the 28KM mark. Decided to pedal lightly there but as the moment Shih Ming hop onto her bike, her gears lock up and she took a tumble to the side. Went to assist her and glad she was fine before we decided to walk to the top, all 4 of us together.

We met up with Lynn, Chin Chin and Pat there and we all exchange some advice before heading off again, this time down the hill. As the climb was steep, the downhill was scary too. I tap on my brakes as I went topping a top speed of 55KM/H at one point and nearly skidded. If I had really skidded, down the hill I will roll into the ocean I guess. Hahaha... But I managed to get back into control as I released my brakes and drift through the corner like any mountain bikers will do in a cross country race. I guess the "mountain bike" is still in me after all. Hehe...

Arriving safely down in one piece, I waited for the rest. Lynn came in first and rode with Chin Chin and Pat. I couldn't keep up with them hence I decided to go with Jennifer. Navigating through the busy roads here was difficult but was glad at certain points, marshalls in their support vehicles was there to block the other cars.

Soon enough, the next climb at about 45KM. Even before trying, together with Jenn, we just decided to walk. Soon Shih Ming and Saya joined us and shortly in front, we spotted the sweeper truck and with no hesitation, we hop on it except for Saya who decided to pedal up. The truck was full and everyone had their fair share of fun on it. At the top of the hill at about 48KM, we decided to pedal again as it was a descend, and a much safer one with minimal vehicles around and not too steep. Plus, the scenery was really nice pass some dam or reservoir at Telok Bahang I think.

Having fun with Shih Ming on board the sweeper truck...

Next will be another descend down to the coastal roads heading towards Batu Feringgi and Tanjung Bungah. As Jennifer has took off earlier, I was with Shih Ming all the time and was escorted by the TV3 support vehicles which we both were really grateful as there were helping us blocking the roads from other vehicles which made it super safe for us to ride. As we pedalled safely with them, we soon find ourselves at the turning near Tanjung Bungah. Another hill to climb but not long nor steep. I recognised this route from the Malakoff 26KM, Penang 2009 and told Shih Ming just about another 5KM to go.

I attack each climb as I did not want to suffer with a slow speed up and soon, we enter some shady place in a forest and that's where we were reunited with Jennifer. Told her to carry on as it's already very near and she gladly obliged later. Shih Ming was still going strong with me. Then came the view of the mountain behind Youth Park and I looked back to inform my 2 friends that we only had one more turn to go in less than 1KM. Smiles were all over our faces as we made the turning and into the park which then soon saw the finish line as we completed the ride together safely. What a day! The route was tough today but I didn't feel too wasted probably because I had 2 great friends around me while I pedalled. And I'm sure this kept the pain away too.

We all made it back safely...

We were reunited with all our friends here and had a light lunch to refuel before making our way back on board the provided shuttle bus. We all soon parted ways with each others as the majority of them are leaving back for home on the same day except for myself, Shih Ming, Saya and Pat with Lynn and Chin Chin being our great host around.

Post ride...
I check into Tune Hotel again after the ride. After cleaning myself up, I went for a walk around town indulging in some of the local snacks around before making way to Lynn's house again with Kenneth picking me up. With the rest, we all went to a place call Bukit Tambun for seafood dinner before making our way to Chin Chin's friend house where we all spent some time at chatting away till about midnight.

With Lynn's parents before leaving. THANK YOU...

The next day, we left Penang at 10.45am after bidding farewell to Lynn's parents, Chin Chin and Lie Wei. We made our way to Ipoh for food and even got "lost" for a moment there searching for a famous biscuit shop. And from there onwards, we left for home as the next thing on the agenda was to have dinner with the rest at Kual Lumpur like Raymond Hee and Siok Bee.

All smiles despite getting "lost" in Ipoh...

Overall, it was a good holiday and riding trip. I had my fair share of fun though I don't deny there were all happy, sad and painful moments for me thoughout the ride. As for my left knee, I'm not really sure on it's situation on the current time of writing this. I thought I have busted it but it got a little better throughout the days though mobility is still pretty limited. Just hope it wouldn't be a bad one as I only have 2 weeks of rest before hitting the roads again. Till then, HAPPY 2010!

Acknowledgements
- Lynn, for the being a great host and guide arranging the accommodation and planning out the itinerary for this trip. Not forgetting to her parents too for the great hospitality. And also the assistance in helping me changing my flat tyre.
- Chin Chin, for registering the ride and also being a great host.
- Jennifer, for pulling me at the end of the first day's ride and also for the company during the second day.
- Shih Ming, for the company during the second day of the ride and for the fun we all had together.
- Keat Seong, Steven, Eric, Poh Seng, Lian Meng, Raymond, Michelle and Saya, for the great time and fun together in welcoming the new year. Thanks everyone for your concern too.
- the organisers and marshalls for the event, thank you for the care and assistance given during the ride.
- to everyone else whose name isn't mention, THANK YOU.

Merdeka Criterium Race 2009...

Event: Merdeka Criterium Race 2009
Venue: Seksyen 6, Kota Damansara, Selangor
Date: 16 August 2009
Time: 8am
Distance: 28KM - 2.8KM X 10 laps (did only 21.2KM by Polar CS100)
Bike: Merida Road Race 905-Com
By Frank

My second road race since I've gotten my bike. I registered for this because the race venue is within 1KM from my residence. And I though of giving support to the organising committee since this is a first sporting event in the neighbourhood. But boy, my hopes for a good race were dashed, even on the race pack collection yesterday.

I registered myself and Andrew through Herbert from KSH Merida. Even so, I needed to fill in the form yet again during the collection. I don't understand the trouble as the form is the same and besides, the process took so long though there weren't many participants around. Reason why was due that the organising committee was having their own sweet time processing the application and chatting away among themselves. It took me about 20 minutes just to collect 2 race packs when I was the first in the queue. Wait, there wasn't even a queue.

The registration form which was plain simple stated 8am to be the flag off time. But upon receiving the race pack with the itinerary in it, I found out that my category will only start at 10.45am but I was required to report in before 8am. What’s with the 3 hour wait? Speech, national anthem and so on. You get the idea. They could have included this detail in the registration form.

With no choice, I arrived at the venue close to 8am and soon met up with Andrew and Wai Lam, the latter came to give support and to snap photos. With 90 minutes till Andrew’s start time as he registered for the 20KM mountain bike category, we hung around at the nearby eatery till an important announcement was made. The race course was altered and more loops have to be done as the traffic police didn’t agree with the road closure time. And I thought this was supposed to be agreed before hand? OK, no big deal on this as distance is still the same. To understand the route, all cyclists went for 1 lap with the aide of the traffic police clearing the road for us.

Just slightly after 9.30am, Andrew’s category was flagged off followed shortly by the 20KM road bike. I believe there were about 100 participants here which include 2 kids, the youngest being 9 years old! I stood at the side to cheer. The roads were closed to traffic and I pity the motorist who were honking their car horns off for having to be stuck in a massive traffic jam for the entire duration of the race. I do appreciate this, but maybe the traffic police could have opened a lane for them? Just my 2 cents though. And in about an hour’s time, the race was completed. Though I believe Andrew suffered as he hasn’t been cycling for a very long time, he did well. And soon, another surprise came. Lionel came to support! Thanks!

At 11am, after a 15 minutes delay, it was my turn, the 28KM road bike open category which attracted about 50 cyclists. I was to cycle for 10 laps. I started from the back with some space in front of me. Reason, I started moving as the countdown was still at 3, so I could have a little rolling start plus to clip into my pedals. And with that, I had the advantage of a good start as I took the outer lane and went straight to the front of the peloton. However, it was only for a matter of seconds before the stronger cyclists took over as they overtook me from everywhere. I admit I was worried about crashing here, so I slowed down to let them pass and soon found myself at the back. Not last but at the back.

28KM road bike open cyclists ready for the start...

Yours truly getting ready from the back of the pack...

Taking it as the conclusion of my periodization phase for my Project DREAM training, I decided to pedal hard for a lap, before doing a recovery at the next and to repeat again for the entire course. But as my 2 biggest gears was giving out some noise as the chain is being rub against the derailleur, I had to use the next available gear as I didn't want to damage any parts. And it was not easy as the last 2 stretch, I had to ride against the wind. The first stretch took cyclist around Persiaran Mahagoni, a wide smooth road leading to Persiaran Surian which was totally opposite. The tarmac which was mostly cracked resulted in a bumpy ride, and together with certain places with uneven surfaces, my bum was made to suffer. Not to mention there were tire puncture casualties from this throughout the race, some as early as the first lap. Then it was into Jalan Cecawi before the final stretch of heading to the start/finish line to complete 1 lap.

At the start of my second lap, I already felt the dryness in my throat. Though it rained yesterday, the haze was still present. Though I had water with me, I didn’t’ drink a single drop from it throughout my ride. Lap after lap, I soon lost count of how many I have done. And I did not want to look at my cyclometer for the distance, just my speed will do. Every time I passed the start/finish line, I could hear cheers from Andrew, Lionel and Wai Lam, and sometimes from the other cyclists too.

Zooming past the start/finish line...

Mid way through my ride, the roads were opened back to traffic. And boy, it was the entire road and some cars came close to me! Though the traffic police were still manning most of the junctions, the main roads were really dangerous. I had to look back at times to ensure my own safety.

At my "second last" lap I think, someone crashed heavily at the Persiaran Surian stretch and medical attention was needed. I had to cycle on the outer lane as ambulance and other vehicles took the inner. And it was really bumpy as it was uneven due to cement spilled some time ago which had dried up. And soon in front, I nearly knocked into a dog that was crossing the street leisurely on its own. Dogs really bad at looking out for vehicles I guess.

Arriving at the start/finish line again, I was told 2 more laps to go. It wasn’t possible at my speed. It was just too fast for me to complete 28KM. A quick check on my cyclometer reveal that I only pedaled for about 18KM. What is happening here?

So be it. Took the lap easy, saving for the final lap to sprint to the finish. But it was a bad choice as I was flagged down upon completing this lap with the marshall telling me that the race was over. Reason? The leader had completed his race and the road is to be opened entirely. I felt disgusted with this type of decision. A 21.2KM race for me in a time of 00:43:46.

Completing the race early without even realising it...

Cycled into the rest area and took 3 cans of some weird isotonic drink. My throat was really dry. Regroup with my friends and didn’t want to talk too much about the race among ourselves, we all left the venue immediately without hesitating much and headed for lunch then back home for a well deserved rest.

Throughout my entire ride, the leader and the leading peloton passed me twice. There were really fast and I suspect the leader might be pedaling at a speed of about 50KM/H! But to accept this as the reason for cutting the race short for other cyclists is just so unacceptable. Many things and confusion could have been avoided by simply putting it on ink. But the organiser choose to leave it out from the registration form which left cyclists fuming over the overall quality of the event. In the end, I felt cheated from a badly organised event.

KRI Century Ride 2009...

Event: KRI Century Ride 2009
Venue: Bukit Kinding Resort, Tanjung Rambutan, Ipoh, Perak
Date: 19 July 2009
Time: 7.00am
Distance: 160KM (155.8KM by Polar CS100)
Bike: Merida Road Race 905-Com
By Frank

This will be my first ever cycling entry as I prepare myself for dualthon and hopefully triathlon soon. Not as easy to write though compared to running, as cycling is a fast pumping adrenaline sport and I can't really remember the places and the time taken to pass each of them. Hence my apologies here as this report isn't as informative as I would like it to be.

It's just 15 days since I have gotten my bike and with barely 2KM of pedalling with it, I'm off to a 160KM bike ride expedition in the state of Perak. And since I have never been to Ipoh, it's a great way to explore the town and state's surroundings. Century Ride is not a race for me, just something for fun and experience since it's my first time on a road bike. To complete is my priority, even if it's outside the qualifying time.

18 July 2009. Pre-ride day.
The journey up to Ipoh started early at 7.50am where I met up with Shih Ming and Pui San at the Sungai Buloh overhead bridge rest area. We agreed to fom a convoy up to Ipoh as I'm not familiar with the roads in Ipoh. Heng and Vin was a little late and decided that we should meet up during the drive up which we did at the Tapah rest area. The drive was smooth but awfully boring and lonely for me. Was hoping someone was travelling with me. Sigh...

My first trip to the town of Ipoh...

Arrived at the small town of Ipoh in about 2 hours plus time and off we all went to a dim sum restaurant called Foh San. And we were lucky that they just shifted into a new place which was rather high class with a hotels' touch to it. But the unlucky part was Heng got a parking fine. Not really his fault as we were searching for a shop to purchase the parking coupon which took us 5 minutes or so. Back to the car, the officer was already done with his job. Don't understand why is the parking coupon still being used instead of the dispenser type, and why isn't Saturday free or half day?

Anyway, had a good time indulging with the dim sum and catching up among ourselves before off to another famous eatery place call Funny Mountain Soya Bean. No doubt the "Tau Foo Fah" was good till Shih Ming and Heng gulped down 2 bowls of it. We parted ways with Heng and Vin as they are on the way back to Penang, and the 3 of us made our way to our hotel.

The scene at Foh San dim sum restaurant...

Did a late check-in for my hotel room at Hotel Fair Park before Shih Ming came from her hotel to pick me up to attend a briefing session at Tower Regency Hotel. It was here that we joined with the rest of the group from Jennifer, Michelle, Siok Bee, Keat Seong, Raymond and Yip. Lynn and Chin Chin was still at Penang though as they were paddling in a dragon boat charity race.

Part of the THG gang...

Off for tea-time after the short briefing and back to the hotel next for a short rest before it's dinner time at a restaurant call Lou Wong for Ipoh's famous beansprout chicken rice. Nothing spectacular about the chicken rice but the beansprout was really fat and juicy. Filling only half of my hungry stomach, it's back to the hotel to call it a day.

Ice cream for tea-time...

19 July 2009. Riding day.
I have set my alarm to go off at 4am but somehow, I woke up instantly at 3am. With 4 hours till the start of the ride, I slowly got myself ready while keeping myself very carefully not to produce any sound that might disturb both Raymond and Yip who were still sleeping. By 5.30am, I was all set to go and shortly later, Chin Chin, Lynn, Pui San and Shih Ming was already waiting for us at the lobby. Jennifer and Keat Seong was already ready too but I opt to stay with Raymond and Yip instead and asked the rest to make their way to the starting venue first.

The route map...

By the time we arrived at Bukit Kinding resort, we only had 20 minutes to get ourselves ready. And by the time we did so, both myself and Raymond found the cyclist pedalling out of the gate at 7am sharp! Since the time will only be started upon exiting the gate, we both decided to start from here, hence no rolling start for us. Raymond went ahead first while I waited for Chin Chin, Lynn, Pui San and Shih Ming as we agreed to pedal together. Waited till a marshall came out on a motorcycle informing that there was no cyclist left behind. I guess I have missed them , so off I went. 13 years of no pedalling, it was time for my cycling muscles to be awaken, though this historic moment of my comeback was a little comedic as I had a little problem getting my shoe clip on to the pedal hence a shaky start. I even went for a short off road trip when I lost my balance when the support vehicles passed me on the narrow road. Was glad that I wasn't threw off my bike or suffer any puncture. Haha...

My strategy for this 160KM ride is just to keep pedalling even at a slow speed as I have learnt this from John's blog as he particpated in last year's edition. And at times, I will do a sprint followed by a recovery ride. Just want to balance everything out for a first ride. Fun , experience and techniques.

After getting myself warm up after pedalling for 1KM and with the road slightly cleared, I pedalled hard trying to catch up with my friends. At about 5KM or so, a few cyclist passed me and I thought there might be some others at the back. Decision time and I made up my mind to slow down hoping my friends were at the back instead of the front. Soon, I spotted Shih Ming closing on me from behind and I was glad I made the correct decision. Pedalled with her for a while, while chatting before she left after informing that the rest of my friends are at the back. With this, I stopped at the roadside at 8KM to wait for them but I was told off by the policeman. Off I went again but at a very slow speed and this saw Pui San rocketed pass me. 200M after my restart, I finally spotted Lynn and Chin Chin and off we went together.

With no knowledge on drafting and with my inconsistent speed, I decided not to draft them or let them draft me. Kept a minimal distance from them as I pedal, the 3 of us cycled passed Sungai Siput into Kuala Kangsar. The town of Kuala Kangsar was a busy one and I had a little problem as the roads were narrow and traffic was a little heavy. Somewhere around the town's exit, there was a confusion on whether to take a left or right turn as the junction was lacking the direction marker. Was lucky that a support vehicle was near and they directed us. Phew... Talk about getting lost in Perak.

Arriving at 40KM, my bum was already hurting. Another 120KM to go still. I had to stand at times to relieve the pain and pressure from sitting down on the saddle. Eery stroke I took, my poor glutes hurts. Argh... I was glad that the emergency lane here was wide though, hence I can cycle without fears of vehicles coming close to me kept at a minimal. It was about 75KM, we were greeted by a steep climb into a village. It's probably the toughest climb but Lynn showed her strength here powering up the slope like it was so easy. Bravo! As I got to the top, I heard a battle-cry let out by Chin Chin. Kudos to her too, pedalling through it. Shortly in front, we were greeted by the first checkpoint. Refilled our tumblers and off we went again now into Sauk.

Nearly got lost again as there were no direction marker at a turning point. I sprinted to the front to have a quick check and was lucky I spotted a marshall sitting on the pavement just shortly in front. Signalled to the 2 girls to join in and off we went into another beautiful area and into Karai. Had a short chat with Lynn here as we cycled side by side enjoying the view which includes scenic mountains and even a railway bridge. Wonderful!

Lynn and Chin Chin looking great after 108KM of pedalling...

Yours truly looking the opposite though...

Can't really explain much here as I'm not familiar with the surroundings, but we were greeted by the second checkpoint at 108KM before cycling into Lintang. At 120KM, I spotted Yeap from KSH Merida taking a break at the side. He was helping people around, hence he was left behind. Talk about being a bike technician. I stopped for a chat with him before we cycled together for a while as I'm too slow for him. 141KM saw the third and final checkpoint. My left knee here was starting to give me problems and it's a different area from the injury I suffered at the Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur Marathon 2009. Hmm... Another 20KM to go, I told my knee. Please hang in there. Same goes to my poor bum too which was squashed at that point.

Lynn happily zooming pass me...

20KM long and almost a straight road was the difference between success and failure. Keep pedalling, keep pedalling! At 150KM, Lynn passed me saying 10KM to go! At 154KM, she said again 6KM to go! She was going for it at this stage while I was still conserving my energy for the final sprint. A support vehicle passed me informing me another 3KM to go and this is where I began my sprint. Lynn was about 300M ahead of me as I engaged a higher gear with each kilometer conquered to try close down the gap. I was huffing and puffing as she was really strong at this point. At the last corner into the resort, I zipped up my jersey as a final climb awaits us. I finally caught up with Lynn here and we crossed the finish line 2 seconds apart with her being ahead. 07:53:04 was the time I took, almost 7 minutes from the cut off time. Chin Chin came in 6 minutes later.

Senior riders (Yip and Raymond) together with the 3 newbies (myself, Lynn and Chin Chin)...

Together with Yeap (1st from right) from KSH Merida...

The only disappointment was the lack of support at the finish line. No refreshment was given and we had to search for it. They even ran out of medals. Sigh... Never mind though as they did promise to mail them to us together with the certificate. However , all in all, I was really satisfied with my ride and was glad that I didn't suffer any mishap. Even my legs weren't as sore as I though it will be. It's just that I suffered sunburn on my arms and legs. And my poor squashed bum. I need a new saddle!

My arm got barbequed...

Rested at the canopy just outside the hall, while waiting for Shih Ming and Pui San to join us. Lynn's mum was there too. Got ourselves clean up and off we went for a light snack before heading back to Kuala Lumpur and Penang respectively. Lonely and sleepy drive home for me but was glad that a friend kept me entertained with SMSs. Whoops... I was SMSing while driving. Shhh...

One for the album before leaving Ipoh...

Acknowledgements.
- Jennifer, for an awesome job in helping register for the ride.
- Keat Seong, for the advices and concern shown to us especially the first timers.
- Shih Ming and Pui San, for the tour around Ipoh and for great company.
- Lynn and Chin Chin, for the company along 152KM of the ride.
- Raymond and Yip, for arranging the accomodation and being great room mates.
- The rest of the THG gang for the awesome time together at the small town of Ipoh.
- KSH Merida team for the advices and into the building of my road bike.
- To those who have played a part but not mention here, you know who you are. THANK YOU!