A Date With 84...

By Frank

I will be leaving for Singapore tomorrow morning for my third ultra marathon and my second attempt at the 84KM distance at Sundown Marathon 2010. My travel mates will be Yip, Keat Seong and Jennifer before meeting up with Choi, Lawrence and Loke at Singapore. As usual, an entry before I leave for a big race.

As mentioned before in previous entries, my training leading up to this hasn't been on par. I told myself that I will continue on from where I left off at Macau Marathon 2009, but things didn't go too well after my fall at the Malakoff Interstate Fellowship Ride 2009/2010. Took me a while to return and although I did 2 full marathons, things didn't really shape up too well until the end of April 2010 when Keat Seong organised a few night runs where I put in some decent mileage. It was sufficient to bring a little back in me, but insufficient overall. A quick check on my training log revealed a mere 500KM running distance covered since 1 January 2010. The distance speaks for itself here.

Last year's attempt was to complete my first 84KM ultra marathon in the fastest time possible and to gain experience from it. I had a painful and yet memorable race but I was left disappointed at the finish line. I'm sure it will be more or less the same this year. Though there are more friends taking part in the ultra distance together with me with some running it their first time, things just won't be the same. Nevertheless, I look forward to be running with them from Haza, Cheang, Choi, Jeff, Richard, Tey and Yip. Not forgetting the ever inspiring Singapore Blade Runner and Adam One Arm Runner too. Lawrence, Loke, Keat Seong and Jennifer will be running the marathon distance instead.

I hope to participate in this year's The North Face Challenge running in the 100KM solo. But in order to qualify for that, I need to run an 84KM in a sub 10 hours time. Not an easy task and with my condition now, I believe it's near impossible. But I will still my give my best shot. This is a race where I will rely on experience rather than fitness and I do hope not to repeat the same mistake I did last year. Therefore, any time better than last year's timing of 12:08:16, I will be very happy. But if I can achieve that dream, it will be a bonus. After all, nothing is free in this world. I need to train for it and with the amount of training I had, I know my limits. In this area, I believe Yip stands a rather good chance though.

I survived Macau Marathon 2009 to be given another chance to run. I will give my all again at this race. There will be risk I'm taking but I'm sure Ngae will be looking after me at his "new home" for I dedicate this run for him. I will be wearing the special bib printed for the entire distance.

My race gear has been selected. And I thank my sponsors for giving me the best they carry. Not forgetting to my friends too for organising training runs and also your wishes. They were heard and I will remember it when I run. For now, I will rest myself for the assault on Changi and East Coast Park begins this 29 May 2010 at 6pm! To all running the Sundown Marathon 2010 regardless of distance, have an awesome one!

Easier Doesn't Mean It Ain't Tough...

By Frank

My first 2 Sundown Marathon over the past 2 years has took me running the same route through East Coast Park, Bedok reservoir, HDB flats and climbing the same pedestrian bridges throughout the night.

For the 2010 edition however, a new route is introduced. Gone are the 4 route sections of Strings Of Lights, Heartland Twist, Waterfront Trail and Homerun. This time, runners will be starting from the Changi Exhibition Centre running along the airport road into East Coast Park till the end of it and back. And for the ultra marathon category which I will be running in, this will mean that I have to go through it twice. Definitely not a very "scenic" route compared to the original but I assume that it will be packed with supporters all around as this will be in a park after all, not to mention the smell coming from the barbecue pits as weekenders spend their weekends there.

The new race route for Sundown Marathon 2010...

The race route will now be purely flat. It does sound easier but remember that it is still partially running on concrete instead on tarmac. And running a 42KM and 84KM distance is not an easy matter. But I'm sure being a race held a Singapore, there will be lots of support even from those we do not know. This will really help as we run through the night.

I'm now in my tapering phase. An easy 10KM run earlier and with one more to come and a 5KM recovery run after that will call it close for this training. And being on a low carbohydrate meal is certainly not easy. Can't wait for Wednesday for I shall start fueling up. BURP!

Run In Memory Of Ngae Koh Hieng...

By Frank

This morning, an initiative to run in memory of late Ngae Koh Hieng was done by Wan Yew Leong together with Pacesetters Athletic Club Malaysia. The idea behind this run was to pay our tribute to the icon himself who sadly left us last weekend. I've attended his wake the past Monday but still am still unable to accept the fact that he is gone.

In conjunction with the memorial run, Wan has prepared a special running bib for all runners who has the option to wear it for a run to be done together although the distance and the route isn't fix. I asked for number 84 which they gladly gave as I assume that will be my bib number (as printed on my receipt) for next weekend's Sundown Marathon 2010 and I will be wearing it. I'm now in my tapering phase and I ran an easy 10KM yesterday morning. And with exactly no sleep at all since 8.30am yesterday morning (simulating next weekend's race condition), I opt to run an easy 5KM first around the Bukit Aman to bird park area before joining the others for the memorial run running the double hills route.

A simple but yet meaningful running bib...

The distribution of bib started at 6am and we had a 1 minute silence before we all head out to run at 6.30am. I wore a sarong for this run as Ngae was made famous by running with it together with his barefoot running style. I borrowed the sarong from Jasmine and the first thing I noticed was the flower design instead of the usual boxes. I asked her and found out that the design is for women. Hahaha.... No wonder. I'm not able to run barefoot but I guess Ngae will understand. Perhaps 1 day I will. Who knows right?

Running in a sarong is certainly not easy. My hats off to Ngae for doing it all the time. I started well with it, but once it gets soak in sweat, it sticks to the skin and movement became limited. I ran the entire double hills route with it and I was lucky it didn't came loose. Kind of surprise with how well I put it on. Hehe...

Anyway, I had a good run with the others although not everyone ran together. And since this is the final tapering weekend, I do feel better running 16KM this morning. And after the run, there was a mini pot luck breakfast where some of us contributed some food. I contributed some Gardenia Twiggies. Wan made his signature teh tarik.

I had a wonderful but tiring morning. Back home, it was laundry before I fell asleep after entering this entry. As for Sundown Marathon 2010, the final week now approaches. Mentally I do feel a bit ready, but physically wise, it's another matter. Let's see what I can do in this few days.

Loss Of An Icon...

By Frank

The Malaysia ultra endurance sport scene lost an icon yesterday. Ngae Koh Hieng famous for his down to earth lifestyle, barefoot running, sarong, desert and ultra running, singing while racing and training, and also for his big smile on his face has passed away on 15 May 2010.

I was really tired yesterday as I did not sleep a wink as I am trying to simulate being awake in the wee hours for my Sundown Marathon 2010. As I was about to call it a day yesterday, I received a SMS at 9.30pm from Lawrence delivering me the sad news that Ngae has passed on. I was really shocked when I learnt about it and actually took me some time to accept the fact.

Ngae was had a tumour removed a year ago from his head. He recovered well from it and I remember the photo that Lynn took of him during last year's edition of New Balance 15KM Run (this year's edition actually happened earlier this morning). He was all in smiles. But then, I first learnt about his deteriorating condition during my trip to Langkawi Island back in February 2010 for the Ironman Langkawi 2010.

Though I only got to know Ngae for less than a year, I have read about his adventures since I first stared running 3 years ago. The time when I got to know him was during the preparation for Powerman 2009 where we trained together. We had our pre-race dinner and raced together too, but little did I know that, that was the first and last training and race that I did with him. I remember very well on his praises for my run and also on how he overtook me in cycling. And also the moment he got lost in Putrajaya during our Powerman 2009 simulation. Not to mention him promoting and passing around his traditional "Foo Chow" biscuits during our pre-race dinner at Lumut.

With Ngae (in shades) after our Powerman 2009 simulation at Putrajaya...

Ngae promoting "Foo Chow" biscuits...

I'm sure many will miss this great icon for he lived a life too short. Ngae if you are able to read this, we all miss you and wish you a good journey ahead. My condolences to his family and loved ones.

Rest In Peace, Ngae Koh Hieng (08 January 1954 - 15 May 2010)

Penultimate 40KM...

By Frank

It's finally banished! The Putrajaya jinx is finally gone as I ran a 40KM long run through the evening yesterday. And this will be my penultimate training for this year's Sundown Marathon 2010. After this, mileage will take a drop as I begin to taper.

After having done 17.5KM at Cyberjaya Perdana Lake View park the night before with a running nose, I know this is run will be going to be a tough one. And this will also be the run where I test out my race gear which except my socks, everything else is new. My 2XU sleeveless compression top, 2XU compression shorts, BV Sport Booster and most importantly, the K-Swiss K-Ona C. I even cut my hair early in the noon (I normally cut my hair 3 weeks before a big race)! Hehehe...

I started alone at 7.10pm using last year's first loop pace. Weather was really humid as it poured an hour ago. By 5KM, I was alrady drenched in my sweat. I was adapting to my race gear well, but there was this discomfort in my gut as I ran. Kept burping and had this sensation of throwing up. It was only after 15KM or so when I released a big "BURP" that I felt better.

More and more runners started to show with Lawrence first coming into the picture before I met up with Shukri and Yim back at the carpark. Keat Seong and Jennifer arrived about 9pm with Ezer being the last around 10pm. However, I was still running all alone.

It was only from 35KM till 37KM of my run that I joined Lawrence and Keat Seong for a while before I started with my warming down run. And at the end of the night, I had really a satisfying run. I wasn't really tired at all as legs weren't as sore as last week (no dumpling calves) and I adapted to my race gear really well. Could have continued longer but I guess my body deserves a rest. After all, it's Putrajaya.

And with 3 weeks to go, it's tapering and fitness maintanence as I look into any areas of improvement. Perhaps there is still hope...

Potty Pot Putrajaya...

By Frank

It's 3.33am as I lay on my bed waiting for my hair to dry. And while doing so, let me make use of time to blog about my run earlier at Putrajaya.

It's the second night long run in conjunction the upcoming Sundown Marathon 2010. The sky opened up in the evening. I initially though of starting my run earlier at 7pm, but I guess the person up there didn't agree with me. The rain got heavier, but that didn't stop me from going to Putrajaya. Yeah, I'm taking the risk and upon arriving, the rain stop! Gamble paid off here. Hehehe...

And so at 8.05pm, I started my run and did 8.5KM minus the loop around the Putrajaya International Convention Center (PICC) and also the big roundabout at the Prime Minister's office. As I got back to the car, Lawrence has already arrived but Keat Seong and Jennifer was no where to be seen. Waited till 9.15pm before we decided to go ahead without them. Spotted a few other runners too and this certainly made the running atmosphere here much better.

I pace with Lawrence for about 7KM before he dropped out as he had a late dinner and wasn't feeling comfortable at the tummy. Continued on myself and by the time I got back to my car to rehydrate myself, Lawrence arrived shortly. He used the run walk combination well and after a short rest, we continued on.

Keat Seong and Jennifer did come and started their run on themselves. Cheang also did come and ran solo. As I completed 22KM, my adidas adizero Tempo gave out some weird noise and I decided to change to my ASICS GEL-Trainer 14 and continued on.

This third loop, I decided to run the PICC loop as it will give me some extra distance. Completed it successfully and rewarded myself with a sip of my Endurox R4 which I carried since I changed my shoe earlier. However, my stomach started giving out weird signals later and upon arriving at 28KM, I couldn't take it anymore. I stopped running and was in need of the toilet! I was at least 2KM away from the nearest toilet and by walking, it will take me at least 20 minutes to arrive there. The AGONY!

Luck was on my side. A Malay chap who was ferrying fluids to the other runners via his motorcycle slowed down beside me to ask if I was joining the Firefighters Run the next day. Replied him that I am not, and while he is preparing to leave me, I asked if he can etch me back to my car. He agreed and I hop on instantly and off we went. I was really glad to be back at the car and dashed straight to the toilet.

After making my deposit, I accompanied Lawrence with his third loop, and this was my warm down run. A 4KM run to total it to 32KM. Not a fast time, but I was glad I made this far. Hobbled towards Keat Seong and Jennifer to have a chat with them. Both did 21KM as Keat Seong had some discomfort on his ankle.

My left calf stiffen up and looked like a rock in just a short while after completing my run. It felt really uncomfortable as I have just ran an ultra marathon. I couldn't stretch properly and had to sit down to massage it according to the flow of my bloddstream. It got better and by the time Keat Seong and Jennifer was about to leave, Lawrence came back victorious as he completed 30KM. Well done!

Chatted while we rested and it was certainly nice to have catch up with him again. It's been a while. At about 1.15am, we made our way home to have a well deserve rest.

An improvement over last week's run. Probably it was due to the weather. I was actually hoping to be a humid run actually as I do want to suffer a little as it will benefit me in the later stages. Besides, I ran most of the run on concrete pavement as it will be the same thing at Sundown Marathon this year. The potty pot issue at 28KM nearly cancelled out my run. I swore that if without that Malay chap's ride back, an "explosion" will have happened near the lawyer's department. Phew... My many thanks to him.

I think my hair is dry now and I shall try to sleep. However, 1 question remains. How am I to sleep if I keep visiting the toilet due to the amount of water I drank? zzZZ...

The Putrajaya Jinx...

By Frank

Yesterday evening, I ran my very first night long run for my Sundown Marathon 2010 training this year. And where else to do it than Putrajaya at the infamous 11.5KM loop that till take runners from the Palace of Justice to Putrajaya International Convention Centre, Palace of Justice, Prime Minister's Office and back to the start point. The reason I said infamous is because that a lot of runners struggled here which includes myself. Not sure of the reason. It may be due to the mental challenge of the loops, humidity level or even the surface.

This run was organised by Keat Seong and was supposed to start at 9pm. However, as I plan to run a slightly further distance, I opt to start at 8pm which I did. Weather and humidity level was actually fine, not as bad as previous runs. The first 5KM all the way up to the Putrajaya International Convention Centre was done at a 6mins/KM pace, taking it as warm up. Then I increased it to 5:30mins/KM on the return leg. By the time I arrived back at the car, I was 10 minutes late and Keat Seong and Jennifer has started. I waited for a while to spot any other runners which include Rohaimy but after seeing no one, I decided to carry on.

500M into my second loop, I spotted Keat Seong making his way back followed behind by Jennifer. I u-turned and slowed down to wait for Jennifer as I though it was dangerous to leave her behind alone. I followed her pace till the Prime Minister's Office before she drop out.

From there, I carried on myself and back to the Putrajaya International Convention Centre, though still feeling fresh, my legs were already a goner. Everything waist down was really sore. I did the loop twice as I did not want to climb again later and made my way back to the car to refuel. It was a struggle back and I really wanted to walk back. However, I didn't as I kept my vision on the Ministry of Sports building which was brightly lighted. I used it as my guide to bring me back which I successfully did with 8 minutes to spare till 3 hours since I started my run.

I spotted Jennifer hanging around at the car park and it really tempted me to call it a day. After thinking it through, I decided to stop after running 26.6KM. Did not want to punish my legs too much as after all it's been a month since I ran, and this infamous Putrajaya loop has always been tough somehow.

Chatted with Jennifer while waiting for Keat Seong to return. He too found it tough and after 26KM, he decided to call it quits too. Hung around for a while, got changed and we drove to an eatery at Puchong for a quick supper before making ourselves back home to our bed. And it was near to 2am when I got home.

Throughout this run, I played around with my running gait. I tried landing o my mid or forefoot using my ASICS GEL-DS Trainer 14. While I managed to do it on my right feet, I failed miserably on my left. Guess the shoe isn't low profile enough.

And while I felt good after the run, I did not think the run was fruitful. I can't maintain a good pace throughout the run and my heart rate was inconsistent. However, this is a stepping stone as Sundown Marathon 2010 is just 5 weeks away. Will continue to train here till the final 2 weeks and hopefully by then, I will be able to break this Putrajaya jinx.

Runnerz Circle Is A Registered Company...

By Frank

Fungus, mold and mushrooms have been growing all over this site. I have been so busy with work that I have neither no time to train or to blog. My running mileage has been 0KM since running the Energizer Night Race 2010 3 weeks ago.

So what have I been up to lately till I am so tied down? From the title of this entry, it s obvious that Runnerz Circle is now a registered company with the Companies Commission Of Malaysia. I have been busy travelling around places especially to Singapore to have talks with distributors for brands and all went through smoothly. Yes, I was very tired and stressful from all these, but am glad too at the end of the day as pieces are falling into the correct places. I'm not going to reveal too much on the company yet, but will definitely do so when the the time is right, which should be in a couple of months time, if not faster.

As for my training, I'm glad Keat Seong is organising a weekly long run at Cyberjaya and Putrajaya which is taking place every weekend till the last weekend before Sundown Marathon 2010. That leaves me with about 6 weeks worth of long distance runs. Definitely insufficient, but I will take it. I just hope that I will manage to run in some good quality long distance runs with this. And it's a revisit to the Energizer Night Race 2010 marathon route this weekend for the training as Keat Seong wants to complete the route. So, whoever is game to join us, you are most welcome!

Energizer Night Race 2010...

Event: Energizer Night Race 2010
Venue: Kelab Komuniti Taman Tasik Cyberjaya
Date: 27 March 2010
Time: 6pm
Distance: 42.195KM (41.01KM by Eugene's Garmin Forerunner 405)
Shoe: ASICS GEL-DS Trainer 14
By Frank

The Energizer Night Race 2010 will be my eleventh marathon. I foresee that it wouldn't be an easy run for me, but it seems, there was a twist to it.

As the event is held at Cyberjaya, it's the usual stop at Bandar Puteri Puchong with Jeff, Jordan and their partners for an early dinner at the noodle shop there. We then departed and arrived shortly at 4.30pm. I followed Jeff as he had GPS with him and we were parked some 2KM for the starting point. No worries though as there were free shuttle bus service to ferry runners.

With Jordan and Jeff at the baggage counter...

And so by 5pm, we arrived at the race venue. Geared up, check our baggage in and off we went to socialise with our friends. Then I found my running partner for this race, Keat Seong. Jennifer who decided not to run as she just completed her maiden Ironman 70.3 at Singapore last weekend came to support us by cycling around the route which was really nice of her. At 5.30pm, together with Keat Seong and Kel Vin, we jog to the starting point and soon met up with Ben, Yee Hua, Denis, Mohan and Richard in which we started the race together.

The race started sharp at 6pm with a little accident as the horn's nozzle fell off as it was blown by the Energizer representative. But it was quickly rectified by Rustam, Pacesetters Malaysia's president. And we were off. It was a hot and humid evening as the weren't any clouds blocking the sun ray. But it did got better as the sun starts to set half an hour later which came some light breeze. I only managed to run with Keat Seong for about 500M before we lost each other.

There was a short climb ahead but I was what really amazed me was the first water station that was marked as 2KM into the race. I did a quick check on my watch and it was only 5 minutes plus. Immediately, I know that this run will be under distance with evidence showing at each distance markers. Not sure where I was running to but it kind of reminded me of the first 8KM during my Macau Marathon 2009, construction site and empty land all over.

At about 5KM, Jennifer cycled passed me and told me that I was seperated from Keat Seong by quite a distance. Whether he was ahead or behind me, I did not hear it properly. But as as I ran, I spotted him ahead and quickly caught up with him at the 7KM mark.

He was running with Kel Vin and I joined in. I believe we were running on Persiaran Apec at that time which I really like due to the mixture of gradients. However, Kel Vin dropped off after the water station at the 9KM mark which left me and Keat Seong running together.

2 familiar faces appeared shortly after 10KM which I arrived in 00:57:49. Andrew and Wai Lam who came to support were seen here with the big guns (dSLR cameras) and were shooting away.

With Keat Seong just after the 10KM mark...

Next, we proceeded to the Perdana Lake where I had my cycling session 2 weeks ago. Khoo Yit Kiat was cheering for us here. Familiar stretch but then it took me into the unknown Persiaran Rimba Permai where the Dell office is located. Was still running good here till about the 15KM mark where fire fighters where seen spraying water from the hydrant to cool runners know. I really welcome this and just ran through it. However, shortly in front, I had to take out my running vest and I felt a burning sensation on my left chest. Immediately I know it was chaffing (I poured water over my head to cool myself) and so I had to run topless, indecent exposure again but luckily it was in the night. Hahaha…

Next, it was Persiaran Multimedia where the Multimedia University is. And we spotted Roger making his return trip. He was really far ahead of us, plus he just did Ironman Malaysia plus Ironman 70.3 Singapore in the last 1 month.

Turned into Persiaran Bestari and into the dark at the u-turn point which was the 20KM mark. Time was 01:58:37. Making my return trip, I spotted Yee Hua, Choi, Loke and Jeff at the opposite side and exchange waves.

I was still with Keat Seong but he was slowing down. Returning back at Multimedia University, I looked back and I failed to spot him. I slowed down and even took a few opportunities to walk while waiting for him to catch up. He did not and I was forced to resume running although at a slower pace.

At about the 25KM mark, I spotted Jennifer by the road side and informed her what had happen. She cycled back to check on Keat Seong before returning to me. A shocking news was delivered. Keat Seong decided to call it night. He was just not himself as he fell sick a couple of weeks ago and was on antibiotics. With no running partner, I carried on and started my race pace. I was doing some fartleks along the way back but soon I got tired.

But things turned good with friend like Ija and Chris supporting at the side. Besides, occasionally, I do catch up with Richard at the water station and had a short chat. Arriving at the 29KM mark, the PowerBar team were giving out energy gels and I quickly noticed that I have yet to take a single energy gel, except for the one pack half an hour before the start. I was pretty surprised about this.

At the end of Persiaran Multimedia, I spotted Lionel and called out to him before I turned into Persiaran Apec again. As I attack the climb here, I tried to spot my friends who were running the half marathon distance. I only spotted Lawrence who I think was caught by surprised when I shouted to him. Hehehe… It was along way back but the moment I saw the turning into the earlier mentioned Macau lookalike place, I hasten up. Caught up with Keven here and just before I passed him, he stop running and walk. Immediately tried to motivate him by asking him to jog before I left him.

Just before the 35KM mark, I suddenly felt a sharp jab on my chest. I know what was going on here as it isn’t the first time. I did not want my heart rate to plunge and therefore slowed my pace down gradually before stopping for a drink at the next available water station. Friendly people at the 35KM mark water station but when I thought it was the 37KM mark there, I was kind of shock when they told me it was only 35KM. Argh…

Just before re-entering Persiaran Multimedia, Jennifer came along and updated me on Keat Seong. Was shocked that he went on drip and was ferried back to the race village via ambulance. It was dehydration. Was worried about him and I just want to compete the run as soon as possible to join him.

Keep running Frank! 4KM to go is what the volunteers at the 38KM water station was telling me. He wanted to splash ice cold water on me but I decline for I did not want my blood pressure to shoot up all out of a sudden.

3KM and then 2KM to go. I know I was near as the last water station appeared at the 40KM mark. A short climb before down all the way to the flat course along Persiaran Sepang. 1KM to go, I put back my running vest as I hasten things up as I was worried about my friend.

And finally, into the final stretch with about 300M to go. It was narrow, with runners from all categories running together here. Not to mention ambulance were busy making their trip in and out of the venue. As I saw the finish gantry, I did not know where to go. Left or right? No signage and the volunteers was just waving around that they didn’t even answer me. Instead, the one that answered me was people cheering from the side. Thanks a lot. As I cross the finish line in 04:15:29, I held both of my index fingers up to indicate an eleventh marathon successfully completed.

Caught up with Lee Fong and CG from HiVelocity who were manning the timing system before I was joined by Pueh Tian. I then made myself to collect my finisher’s medal, shirt and goodie bag and was glad I had Lawrence to accompany me. I saw Keat Seong here and was really glad he was taking it real well here. Got my stuff, caught up with some friends which include the inspirational Singapore Blade Runner who is running on 1 prosthetic leg.

Front view of the finisher's medal...

Rear view of the finisher's medal...

I joined Keat Seong and Jennifer back at the medic tent while waiting for friends to return. After an hour or so, it was time to head back home. Although I would like to stay to support my other fellow friends who have yet to return, my bed was calling out for me. I needed to rest for it is a long drive home.

I was pretty happy with my timing here although I know that there is still much work to be done in the cardiovascular and running gait department. There are some signs of a comeback but most importantly, I completed this marathon without any injuries and actually had fun coupled with a few tense moment.

Acknowledgements
- Keat Seong, for running together with me till about the 22KM mark. Proud of you in making the brave decision to quit. Certainly setting a very good example for other athletes to follow.
- Jennifer, for the support and company on the bike during my run.
- Andrew and Wai Lam, for coming all the way for photography.
- Friends like Ben, Yee Hua, Chris Kumar, Denis, Jeff, Jordan, Mohan, Pueh Tian, Richard and many more others for your presence did make a difference.
- And to others whose name isn’t mention here, you know who you are. THANK YOU!

Recharging The Battery...

By Frank


Come this Saturday, will be my second marathon of the year and also my eleventh. The Energizer Night Race 2010, as the name suggest will be a night run and the venue will be at Cyberjaya. With the Putrajaya Night Marathon 2010 held just last month at the city just next to it, I will foresee that this is going to be a very humid run as it is starting off at 6pm unless the sky decides to open up in the evening just like how it is doing now for the past few days.

Running a marathon isn't an easy thing especially when one isn't prepared for it. For my case, I am not prepared for this marathon at all. But I told myself that there is a higher stake at hand which is the ultra marathon at Sundown Marathon 2010. Therefore, a sacrifice is needed to be made and this will be part of my buildup to it. My running mileage has hit an all time low due to the fact that I was injured, lazy to run alone and also the lack of races. In fact, a few days ago when I mentioned that my running mileage for this year is at about 200KM for now, I was sounded by Luc. Perhaps a wake up call?

I had a fabulous but yet breathless run with Luc yesterday morning running the double hills route. At the end of it, though feeling out of breath, I do feel good. Perhaps a sign of a come back? Let's hope it is and not just a come and go feel.

Back to the Energizer Night Race 2010, I agreed with Keat Seong a week ago that we shall run together for this. I have not run with him before, therefore I would not know if his pace suits me like how Lynn's pace is. But there's always a first time and it's for the both of us to find out. However, he has just recovered from sickness and his fitness may not be 100%. But yet, I told him that we will start together till he signals to me to carry on. We shall see how it goes. I do hope to complete within a time of 4:45 hours for this run, a pretty comfortable pace for a training run.

Hopefully with this run, I will be able to regain some of my confidence. My "battery" seriously needs to be recharge and I do hope Energizer can provide me with some "power". Hahaha...

KL International Marathon 2007...

Event: KL International Marathon 2007
Venue: Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur
Date: 18 March 2007
Time: 4.30am
Distance: 42.195KM
Shoe: adidas Supernova Cushion 7
By Frank

Nope... There is nothing wrong with this entry although the year stated here is 2007. It's a bit of a recap you see, as I have never posted my first ever road race report, being some more a marathon distance here. Many people will agree that the first marathon will be the most memorable and probably the most painful. So here it is, in conjunction with my 3rd year running anniversary (I started running on 18 March 2007), here's a look back on the race that started it all. Here's the story...

I arrived as early as 3am at Dataran Merdeka with Wai Lam hoping to get a parking near to the Start/Finish line. And yes I did. The whole place was light up pretty brightly. Although still another 90 minutes to the start of the marathon, many runners has arrived and started with their warm up. I too warm myself up and with 20 minutes to go, I took my first PowerBar Gel for the needed energy. After the arrival of all the guest of honour, KLIM 2007 started punctually at 4.30am. I do not know how many people were there, but all I know is that everyone is trying to run pass the ChampionChip mat to get their ChampionChip activated. I was somewhere at the front of the crowd and as I made my way through, my ChampionChip sounded "BEEP". And off I went. I started with a steady pace and everybody was overtaking me. I didn't mind as this isn't a race. I just want to complete it. Shortly after starting, Wai Lam was already way behind me. I didn't look back from there and just kept running. At 5KM, came the first refreshment station. Took 2 cups of 100+ and carried on. And as early as here, runners are seen relieving themselves at the roadside. Hahaha... And at 7.5KM is where the first sponging station appeared. Took a soaking cold sponge and wet myself on the head. It was so refreshing! I reached 10KM at the time of 1 hour 9 minutes 13 seconds. Pretty good compared to my 10KM Subang Run time. And the best part is, I am still going strong without any problems. Took another PowerBar Gel here and ran all the way to the 20KM mark. During my run there, I encountered 2 weird runners. Both of them are breathing so heavily that they produce some weird and irritating sound. It's like they are going to have a asthma attack or something. But I guess that's just their breathing rhythm.

Off we go! Can you spot me and Wai Lam...

I reached the 20KM mark at 2 hours 26 minutes 37 seconds, and took another PowerBar Gel. Still on time but this is where I started to show signs of breaking down. Energy level is still going strong, but my legs are beginning to hurt especially my knees and ankle. While still on time, I decided that I will mix running with fast pace walking. And to make thing even worse, traffic started to appear and its a major problem for my breathing. The emitted carbon monoxide from each vehicles didn't do any good to my breathing. I was suffocating! *cough* This is also where some prostitutes or transvestites appeared out of no where and cheered for the runners. When I passed them, I just looked down ignoring them, and they didn't cheer for me. Hahaha... Shortly later, the sun began to rise and quickly enough, it was already bright. Good Morning!

When I re-entered the city, there were plenty of people cheering for each of us. Even some foreigners waiting for buses with their kids cheered for me. And the Adidas sponsor was there to boost our mentality with their motto banner "Impossible Is Nothing". Some runners who overtook me was also kind enough to cheer for me. There was a middle aged Chinese man asking me to keep going, or at least walk at a faster pace. And there was this kind Indian lady who asked me whether am I still all right. Told her that I was and kept going. But shortly later, I found her sitting by the roadside with people assisting her to stretch. This time I slowed my pace down to ask on her and we each replied with a thumbs up. Throughout the whole route from here, we both are basically pacing each other, until the final 500M where she overtook me. Impressive!

Here comes the 30KM mark. I reached it at 3 hours 53 minutes 55 seconds. This is where the limit of the human marathon threshold is reached. I started to go "crazy", but still focusing on my pace. Here is also where my leg breaks down even more. I hardly can run anymore so therefore, I walk at a very fast pace. Even at walking, my legs especially my ankle still hurts a lot. But, I defy the pain and went on. PowerBar sponsors was there this time giving out free PowerBar Gel. With no hesitation, I took 1 and gulp it down on the spot. Started to exit the city from here and it's way much better. Less vehicles, more trees. With 9KM to go, countdown markers started to appear. From here, I have come to know this guy known as Mr. Tan. He's a member of the Pacesetters Club and it was also his first attempt at the full marathon. When I told him of my story, he was surprised that I jumped from 10KM to 42KM without first trying the 21KM. Hehehe... We chatted for a while, while we were walking as both our legs are beyond any imagination already. As my legs got a bit better, I left him. With the countdown marker getting lesser and lesser especially at 5KM more onwards, my heart was beating faster and I told myself, "Just a little bit more!". I pushed and pushed and at 3KM, I can see the sponsor's balloon floating high up in the sky. The finish line is near. At the last 2KM, Mr. Tan finally caught up with me and ran straight till the finish line. Good for him! And at the last 1KM, I have thought to run all the way to the finish line. Before that, I stretch my hamstrings a little only to feel a cramp sensation. With that I stopped stretching and went on as usual, not risking any damage at the closing stages of my run.

500M to go, I saw it. The finish line. Many people especially those who had already completed cheered for me. I did not want to disappoint them and started to run at full till my ChampionChip goes "BEEEEEEEEEP". I DID IT! I COMPLETED KLIM 2007! The feeling - INDESCRIBABLE, as I fulfilled yet another of my 2007 resolutions. I managed to complete the run within the given time frame of 6 hours and was placed 290 in my category and 668 overall. I completed it in 5 hours 50 minutes 10 seconds. Pretty close but I timed it all to perfection. From here, my emotions started to take over, and I shed some tears of joy as the marshals congratulated me while handing me my marathon finisher's medal and shirt.

Sitting down feels so good...

With less than 10 minutes to go and no Wai Lam in sight, I felt the worse for him. Shortly after changing my sweaty vest into something dry, I finally met him. As expected he did not complete the marathon and quited at the 32KM mark. He reached there at 6 hours and it has already passed the qualifying time. Besides, his leg can't take it anymore, so he took an ambulance back. Nevertheless, it was still a great achievement for him.

Wai Lam is feeling it...

As I successfully conquered this 42KM marathon, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to to all my encouraging friends, THANKS. To my gym instructors Lilian, Ben, Brian, Eugene, Joe and Shane, thanks for all the guidance. To Dr. Tc Quah from SNUH, thanks for everything in what might have been The End for me at that time. And not forgetting my parents whom actually didn't actually encourage my participation in this event.

Front view of the finisher's medal...

Rear view of the finisher's medal...

So here it is. The KL International Marathon 2007. All I can sum up here is "The determination! The satisfaction! The pain! The agony!". Till next year then, KL International Marathon 2008.

Bareno Run 2010...

By Frank

A 5KM, 10KM and 15KM race held at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium this morning (14 March 2010). But yet again, I was part of the support crew plus photographer. I did not register for this race as the registration place was just too far from my place. But after finding out that my dear friends are participating in it, I did not hesistate at all to drop by to lend them my support and to capture their moments. Keat Seong tempted me to run as a phantom runner. I admit that it was really hard to resist, but on second thoughts, I didn't want to distrub the harmony of the race. So, yeah, here's letting some photos tell the story.

15KM runners ready to rumble...

Even Yip wanted to have fun, as a phantom runner though. (How often do you see him in road races?)...

The youngest participant running the 5KM distance...

Kevin returned for a short trip and made good use of it...

Keat Seong having it easy, or did he...

Lynn returning home third in the 15KM womens open...

Geraldine is glad to have completed her run fast. Next, off to the airport for a plane back to Melbourne...

Chin Chin seems to have a painful run...

Carboman Jamie is back after a years plus hiatus...

Jennifer on her final tapering run before her next weekend's Ironman 70.3 debut...

Congratulations to all for a run well ran...

Yours truly with Keat Seong...

I'm so proud of Lynn. She is back for sure...

Top 5 finishers for 15KM womens open...

For the complete collection, do visit http://runnerzcircle.multiply.com/.

Fall From Grace...

By Frank

It's 80 days till my 84KM race at the Sundown Marathon 2010. And the best part is, I have yet to do anything about it. Building up to last year's edition, I had blog entries talking about my training regime. But looking at it this time, my blog seems a bit too quiet.

I told myself that I shall continue from where I left of at Macau Marathon 2009. All said, but nothing done. It started OK, with some events within the month of Decemeber 2009, but it all went down after I suffered my knee injury during the Malakoff Interstate Fellowship Ride 2009/2010. Continued with some long distance races but it wasn't enough as myself lost the motivation to run.

Things seem so different now. Perhaps I lost my magic, or perhaps I got lazy. The flame has died. My first ultra marathon last year, I received tremendous support which kept me going and going. As for now, I can't even get myself going. It seems that I am currently stuck at one place.

Perhaps the flame died here at Macau...

Today's morning run with Luc at the double hills course was a torturous one. Although I'm glad I completed it without walking, I was really breathless after it which I shouldn't be. And this isn't a good sign with a huge race coming up. And speaking about it, I have doubts of meeting my target of a 10 hours 84KM run, maybe not even 11 hours. I guess I have to fore go that now as it just seems so unrealistic.

I'm lost in a slumber world now. I know what I want, but I am not doing the right thing to achieve it. Perhaps it's the end of a chapter, or maybe a new one. Who knows?

Ironman Malaysia 2010...

By Frank

I was at Langkawi the past weekend for a much needed holiday and to play my part as race support for my friends at the Ironman Malaysia 2010. Not only it's my first visit to the island, it is also the first time I'm supporting from the side, and I must admit that it didn't feel "good". But anyhow, let's not talk about it and here's to share some of the shots I taken during the race itself. I guess photos explain more than words.

All ready to rumble...

With Amanda Balding and Luke McKenzie (2009 Ironman Malaysia men's champion)...

With Belinda Granger (2009 and 2010 Ironman Malaysia women's champion)...

Kevin completed his swim in around 1:05 hours...

Yip coming out the water...

Poor Keat Seong got punch/kick in the water till he fainted for 10 minutes...

Raymond Ng still had time to shower...

Yip at Bukit Hantu (heart break hill)...

Jennifer and Li-Ann was with me throughout the support...

Kevin still going strong despite lack of fluids along the bike course...

Keat Seong zooming pass...

Run Kevin run...

Raymond Ng all smiles despite the climb...

PH Lee in the running zone (he runs whenever he sees me)...

Happy go lucky Ben...

Li-Ann is reunited with Kevin after the race...

A painful race for Keat Seong...

Yip too is glad it's all over...

Ironmans and supporters...

For the complete collection, do visit http://runnerzcircle.multiply.com/.