My Comrades "War Chest"...

By Frank

This just arrived not too long ago courtesy of Outdoor Venture Pte Ltd, Running Lab, K-Swiss and GU Energy Labs. My "war chest" as described on the title of this entry, it contains essentials that I will use on my training and race day of the Comrades Marathon 2012.

Training and race day essentials...

Firstly, my training rubbers, the K-Swiss Blade-Light Run which happen to be my second pair. Beside cosmetic changes, no specification were altered. Find out on my personal take on it here. When asked by Ms. Karen Chua of Outdoor Venture Pte Ltd of my preferred shoe choice for training, I had no hesitation in choosing this particular model which I quickly fell in love with, last year. A balance blend between light weight, minimalist and cushioning, I opt for this pair as it will be the closest I can get to my race shoe which happens to be...

Handsome new colour for the K-Swiss Blade-Light Run, my day to day training shoe...

Meet the all new K-Swiss Blade Foot Run! Enter the very first K-Swiss zero drop minimalist footwear! Weighing in at about 8.0oz for a size US9.0 for men, again I will emphasised on race day elements. Some reason I chose this model is because:

1) Balanced weight as in not overly light nor heavy

2) A more efficient running gait and posture with the zero drop specifications

3) The ventilation provided by the Flow Cool System as 89KM is a long distance to run

4) Blade technology which I adore a lot

The K-Swiss Blade Foot Run which will stamp the holy route from Pietermaritzburg to Durban...

First impression of the shoe gave me confidence boost and I really hope it will pass my running test which I will conduct in about 3 weeks time. By then, I should be able to review it.

Last but not least, my nutrition by GU Energy Labs. On race day, I will rely on these before the solid food intake will kick in. The most portable energy source I can carry in my minimal stash during my run, I plan for a 2 sachet each for GU Energy Gel, GU Roctane and GU Chomps. And for training days, these will really aid my performance orientation and recovery. Not forgetting too on my tummy's relationship with GU Energy Labs products which I can describe as "best of friends".

Nutrition GUlore!

With exactly 100 days till race day, all these arrived in just about time. Many thanks to Ms. Karen Chua and Mr. Marc Pereira of Outdoor Venture Pte Ltd for helping arrange these and my fullest sincere gratitude to all 4 companies for the support given in battling cancer.

Rhabdomyosarcoma...

By Frank

By today, most of my friends will know that I successfully battled cancer and won over it many years ago. But my guess is that, most of you do not know the type of cancer and the treatment I underwent through the painful 30 months since 1992.

Rhabdomyosarcoma was the name of the cancer that struck me on my left wrist. It's a cancer that normally is diagnose among young children and it was a rare case for me, a kid at the age of 12 years to be diagnosed of it. So rare that the doctors took me on a roller coaster ride in doing test, test and more test. Yes, I was "special" in a way. The below is a description of Rhabdomyosarcoma extracted from American Cancer Society and modified with some of my own words.

My left wrist where the tumour was removed...

Sarcomas are cancers that develop from connective tissues in the body, such as muscles, fat, membranes that line the joints or blood vessels. Rhabdomyosarcoma is a cancer made up of cells similar to those that normally develop into skeletal muscles of the body.

Skeletal muscles first begin to form in embryos about 7 weeks after the egg cell is fertilized by a sperm cell. At that time, rhabdomyoblasts (cells that will eventually form muscles) begin to form. It is these cells that can become malignant and develop into the cancer call Rhabdomyosarcoma. Because this is a cancer of embryonal cells, it is more common in infants and young children. Though it does occur in adults, it is very uncommon.

Although Rhabdomyosarcoma tends to grow and spread rapidly, fortunately its symptoms are quite obvious compared to those of other forms of childhood cancer. A noticeable lump or swelling, is present. Definite diagnosis relies on biopsy and evidence of tumour spread is sought with x-rays, tomograms, scans and bone marrow examination.

Traditionally, surgery has been the primary treatment followed by intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

The below is my experience battling through Rhabdomyosarcoma. It may have been 20 years since, but I will try to recap as much as possible on what had happened during that time.

It happened in the first quarter of year 1992 when I first discovered myself of a swollen left wrist. Being curious, I've asked my dad about it and was immediately send over to our regular clinic to seek advice. First diagnosis by Dr. Tan was gangrene where they liquid is to be squeeze out. Next day, Dr. Tan called up. After having second thoughts, he suggested for a scan which was done over at Maria Specialist Hospital and it quickly revealed a growth in my left wrist. A surgery was needed to remove it and so I went under the knife just a couple of weeks before my first high school semester exams.

Kind of weird, but at that time I thought that it will be quite an exciting experience for me. 1, 2 and 3 and it's lights off for me. Upon waking up, feeling drowsy, I soon saw my left arm till the wrist was encased in plaster and it hurt. So much for an exciting experience. Dr. Chiew, the doctor that operated me then came for a visit and even showed the tumour that was remove from me. It was whitish in colour and no bigger than a traditional marble ball. It was to be send to Mount Elizabeth Hospital at Singapore for test.

A typical Rhabdomyosarcoma tumour. Mine was whitish and rounder though...

The test result was revealed on my first paper on my first day of semester exam. Just when the exam is going to start, my dad suddenly appeared in school and told me that I was to make a trip to Singapore National University Hospital (SNUH). Apparently the test result showed a malignant cancerous tumour. Under the watchful eye of Dr. Quah, I was to undergo many test from blood to bone marrow before the first phase of treatment which was chemotherapy.

Most unforgettable moment for me was the extraction of my bone marrow. Midway through while the needle is still embedded on my lower back, I woke up after the anaesthetic effect worn off. I was in pain and what other thing a 12 year old can do is to scream and cry. I was instantly injected with more anaesthetic and was knock out again.

Chemotherapy after just only a few days, took its toll on me. I weaken and hair started to drop off. Soon, I was a baldy and not even my eyebrows were spared. Pimples started to breakout and I was constantly throwing up. Throwing up with nothing to throw up is certainly a horrible thing to go through as I had no appetite at all. And these lasted about 6 months on a 2 weeks interval of me travelling between home at Johor Bahru to Singapore. And during treatment, I ballooned up nearing up to 80KG in weight.

Class photo during my Form 2 days in year 1993. Try to spot me at the middle row, third from the right. Yes, I'm the odd one wearing a cap cause I was bald...

Soon, second phase came and radiotherapy was next. This time under the care of Dr. Yang from Singapore General Hospital (SGH). A 1 month radiotherapy treatment was to be administer each day except the weekends, this saw me and mum travelling to and from Singapore each day. Even my left arm has weird markings on it, as it will guide where the radiation laser should be aimed at. Technically speaking, my entire left arm was burnt after 1 week's treatment. And to make matters worst, fellow schoolmates that did not understand what I was going through, laugh at my left arm which has weird markings on it.

Soon after radiotherapy treatment was over, I was back to SNUH for more chemotherapy. Stronger chemo drugs were administer and this time was the introduction of morphine to me as the pain got pretty unbearable. Besides, some of my veins began to harden and doctors had problem inserting the intravenous needle in. I remember that it sometime takes up to more than 10 tries to find the correct working vein.

Soon time passes, and the dosage strength began to change for the better. I do not need to be warded any more and can just visit the Oncologist for light dosage. However, it will still take up a whole afternoon for the process to be administer. But I held on, and soon I was on the way back to recovery. My hair grew slowly and soon, I was able to remove my cap in public.

A post mortem on what I had gone through with Dr. Quah was did and I showed positive signs. However, an annual check-up for the next 10 years will need to be done as it's the most critical time to watch out for any relapse. I survived the 10 years and this is where I am today, some 20 years after my first and hopefully last encounter with Rhabdomyosarcoma.

So now you know my history. Will you look at me the same for I am different in a way. Life goes on for sure but the weaker side of me will also represent my strength. To those battling the disease, know it that the battle can be won. It's tough but one day, surely it will be better.

This entry is dedicated to both my parents, Dr. Quah, Dr. Chiew, Dr. Yang, Dr. Tan and doctors and nurses from Singapore National University Hospital, Singapore General Hospital, Mount Elizabeth Hospital Singapore and Maria Specialist Hospital Johor Bahru. And not forgetting those who have showered care for me during my darkest hours. Finally but not least, those who have been warded together whom have battled successfully cancer together and to those have gave their life for it. It's an ongoing battle, but surely one day, YOU.ME.WE CAN BEAT CANCER together!

The Ultimate Race For Cancer Research 2012...

By Frank

As most of you will know now, I'm will be running this year's Comrades Marathon, the "down" edition, in aid of cancer research. The campaign will be titled The Ultimate Race For Cancer Research or TURCR and my beneficiary will be CARIF (Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation) based over at Sime Darby Medical Centre, Subang Jaya. The campaign has been officially launch as of last week although I'm still waiting for the official charity t-shirts to be printed out.

It has been so long since I wanted to do something for cancer research and it's about time I do so. With all my effort channelling towards the Terry Fox Run in KL since year 2007, I guess it is about the correct time to move a step further. After a failed attempt in year 2008 where the charity campaign was called off at the eleventh hour due to some policies from the previous beneficiary, I have been constantly seeking out a second chance to start from scratch again. And it will be a chance meet-up with Peter Kang from CARIF back in year 2010 where I finally re-did my homework again before finally popping the proposal out late last year. And so, the idea finally materialised and I soon met up with Professor Teo, Katrina and a few others over at CARIF to further discuss on it before officially finalising and announcing it to the public.

The following is the press release for The Ultimate Race For Cancer Research 2012:

Support a brave Malaysian in the ultimate race against cancer!

In 1991 at the age of 12, Frank was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma Cancer, a rare form of cancer that affects muscle and connective tissues. Frank successfully battled against the cancer. Since then, Frank has been passionate about having a healthy lifestyle and in the past 5 years he started participating in various runs to raise funds for cancer research.

Frank as at 31 December 2011, has now completed a total of 16 marathons, 8 ultramarathons (with the furthest being 100KM) and 3 Powermans.

Recently, Frank has qualified as one of the 2 Malaysians for the world’s largest, oldest and perhaps one of the most gruelling 90km ultramarathon race called Comrades Marathon, taking place on 3 June 2012 at South Africa. The race requires participants complete the Run in 12 hours, with a number of cut-off points along the routes which runners must reach by a prescribed time or be forced to retire from the race. The objective of the Race is to commemorate the South African soldiers killed during the war. The Comrades was run for the first time on 24 May 1921 (Empire Day), and with the exception of a break during World War II, it has been run every year since. To date, over 300,000 runners have completed the race. For more information about the Run, do visit www.comrades.com.

Frank is eager in giving back to the society, particularly for cancer patients. An example is the Terry Fox Foundation where he helped to raise fund that will benefit the foundation in the continuous research towards battling the disease. In order to further his involvement in this, Frank intends to run the Comrades Marathon for a good cause and benefiting CARIF (Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation).

Join the CARIF - Frank ‘The Ultimate Race for Cancer Research’ fund raising campaign.

You can pledge your support towards this campaign:

1) Purchase the “special edition” t-shirts at RM60 each, available end February 2012. T-shirts are available at CARIF and Running Lab, Tropicana City Mall.

2) Donate. Cash or cheque (payable to Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation) can be deposited at CARIF or Running Lab, Tropicana City Mall

3) ‘Like’ and share the official Facebook page at The Ultimate Race For Cancer Research (www.facebook.com/TURCR)

You can also view Frank’s updates on his race preparation recorded on his personal blog (http://www.runnerzcircle.blogspot.com/).

You. Me. We Can Beat Cancer.

The "special edition" t-shirt for TURCR...

The Ultimate Race For Cancer Research 2012 is proudly supported by the above...

Comrades In Books...

By Frank

My fellow soon to be Comradier, Chee Kong return home (and left) recently from South Africa for the Chinese New Year holidays. What he brought back along was knowledge, and a whole bunch of them. Books regarding running and especially on the history and inspiration of the Comrades Marathon were the main highlight and it will sure keep me inspired and motivated as I await and prepare for race day in June 2012.

Get to know more about Comrades...

Not only the above, he also brought back biltong, a type of dried meat considered to be a delicacy over at South Africa. I think the one he brought back is buffalo meat. It's actually a pretty healthy meal but it just taste horrible! Its basically aired raw meat which are made up of lean protein. Imagine meat jerky but in a horrible stinky taste. Sorry, but I just can't take the smell!

Bilitong (this is the pre-packed version)...

Overall during Chee Kong' short holiday back here, we had a few short but good get together with some other friends discussing about running, running and more running. We even tried to "poison" a few friends to join us for 2013's edition of the Comrades Marathon which happens to be the "Up" race.

Me and Chee Kong and dad in background. Hahaha... (photo credit to Tey ET)...

Now the only problem is how am I going to finish all the books when I have hardly any time for myself? Hmmm...

K-Swiss K-Ruuz 1.5...

By Frank

A reincarnation of the K-Swiss K-Ruuz which happens to be my favourite racing flat (period), the all new K-Swiss K-Ruuz 1.5 is one fast shoe. Beside giving a total cosmetic overhaul, the shoe's specification remains true to its predecessor, light and fast, and maybe made it even better.

The K-Swiss K-Ruuz 1.5...

Lateral view of the K-Ruuz 1.5...

Medial view of the K-Ruuz 1.5...

Co-developed by Mirinda Carfrae and Andreas Raelert, the K-Ruuz 1.5 weights in at a mere 155 grams for a men size US9.0. Ridiculously light, the build of the shoe is entirely the same as its predecessor. Coming in an all new colour ways, fiery red/yellow for the men and yellow/blue for the women, the biggest and probably the only difference will be the upper of the shoe where the traditional mesh overlays now has been replaced with an entirely new mesh system that allows a seamless construction hence you can wear them without socks! Gone is also the Flow Cool System to prevent water from entering the shoes. Reason for this is explained next.

SeamFree Tech for a seamless construction...

The upper mesh is now treated with P2i's Ion-Mask, found earlier in the K-Swiss Kwicky Blade-Light and California shoes, a water resistant nano-tech system to keep the shoe dry, light and comfy. It works for sure, but I did feel a little dampness when water drop on to the top surface at the recent 25KM run I did on new year's day. It did work in preventing water from sipping into the shoe but I felt my Kwicky worked better in this department probably because it uses welded mesh rather than the open mesh found on the K-Ruuz 1.5.

P2i Ion-Mask treatment for awesome water resistance...

Open mesh for ventilation...

For those who knows the K-Ruuz, nothing much to mention about the outsole. Measured at about a 9mm variance from heel to toe, it's certainly not a minimalist shoe. It's a traditional racing flat. Built entirely the same but as a flashback, it's built on the k-EVA and Superfoam outsole for comfort, and Duraplush rubber outsole coupled with Aosta rubber compound for durability on high wear and tear area. There is also a TPU midfoot support shank for added support but I would prefer it to be removed for better overall fit and flexibility. Oh and yes, the drainage ports on the outsole still remains and will help with draining any moisture out of the shoe. With the same built, also comes the bad news. This shoe wears out extremely fast. I already could see the outsole's wear and tear starting to show after completing my 25KM run.

Outsole and the drainage ports...

The overall fitting of the shoe is the same as the predecessor, meaning you will have to get half a size, or even up to an entire size smaller. This shoe is made long, and with the lack of padding and memory foams around, the shoe will probably fly out of your feet should you be wearing your usual size.

The predecessor and the successor...

And there you have it. An upgrade to my favourite racing plat, and not a major one. Why overhaul it when the shoe is already a great one? I'm sure many who fell in love with the original K-Ruuz will appreciate the addition of the new features to the K-Ruuz 1.5.

The K-Swiss K-Ruuz 1.5 will retail at a recommended selling price of RM399.00 and is available now at Running Lab, Tropicana City Mall.

* A very special thank to Stephen Locke from K-Swiss and Karen Chua from Outdoor Venture Pte Ltd for the K-Swiss K-Ruuz 1.5.

My Comrades Diet...

By Frank

It's 145 days till Comrades Marathon 2012. And it's time I start watching my diet. Diet has always play an important role when it comes to tackling an event, especially those which I really want something out of it. Back in 2009 when training for Macau Marathon, my diet stayed "clean" for about 4 months staying away from unhealthy food.

The Comrades Marathon 2012 will be my toughest run to date. The 89KM is a distance which I have ran before but to complete it within 12 hours on a descending route is something I do not favour. It will be tough on my legs and my respiratory system. A clean diet will help with these and I certainly swear by it.

Clean diet means staying away from fast, oily and process food, at least in my own dictionary. However, as I live in Malaysia, it will be pretty tough so I do what I can. The easiest way for me back in 2009 was beside home cook food, I relied on Subway sandwiches. But Subway sandwiches won't be healthy if we don't choose the toppings and sauces correctly. Therefore, my only sandwich from them will be the all vegetables range and also the roast beef and teriyaki chicken, both meat which aren't process. Even I choose the sauces correctly. I use to pick mustard as the sauce of choice coupled with olive oil and vinegar, but they recently added honey and mayonnaise to it which the latter isn't too healthy.

Goodbye tasty food...

Why not process meat? We do not know which part from the animal that those meat originated from? And it certainly contain some addictive or other chemical to it. Myself being a migraine sufferer is best to stay away from them.

Beside the normal food, I do rely on supplements too. From the usual multi-vitamins to the overall goodness of Omega 3 fatty acids, supplements do help not only in my training but also my day to day being. I recently restarted back my probiotics supplement hoping to improve my already weak tummy and digestive system. But the new thing which I'm trying now will be Coenzyme Q10. After reading so much about it on how it helps migraine sufferers like me, it also helps to improve energy levels. I'm not sure if it works for me yet, but so far it has shown positive results. The only down side will be its selling price and its heatiness. I will need to drink plenty of water with it.

And finally, my trustworthy sports supplement from GU Energy Labs, the only one brand that works best with my tummy. I rely on each product within the brand from fuelling, buffering and recovery. I fuel myself with GU Energy Gels, Chomps and Brew Electrolytes, buffer off my lactic acid build-up with Roctane and recover with Brew Recovery. It's all in the family!

Only the best from GU...

I've started on my new diet a little since entering the new year, but not on full scale yet. Reason being is that Chinese New Year is just around the corner and I will like to enjoy myself a little first. While eating cleaner than usual, I still do spoil myself a little. Life must be live to the fullest, so why torture ourselves? A cheat meal can be rewarding at times. However, 1 February 2012 will be the official date that I will go clean. And this will last till race day. Goodbye tasty food!

Volunteering And Supervising...

By Frank

This morning, I took up a volunteer's role of a running event for the first time. The inaugural Multi Purpose Insurance Berhad Run 2012 (MPI Run), is also Runners Malaysia first event organised under their belt. Good friends with Jamie and Wan, I decided to lend a hand in which ever role they put me into although I have exactly no experience with anything. And to my suprise, Wan not only gave me the food distribution role, but he also made me the supervisor! I kind of freak out a little when I read his e-mail but decided to give it a go as I was paired up with Lyne, a very experienced volunteer herself.

Due to my working hours, I couldn't attend any of the pre-race day preparation and briefings, hence I can only bring myself to the race site which was at Padang Merbuk early in the morning of race day to pick up my gear and to go through again and what shall be done. And early I was at 4am that none of the race director were there yet. However by 4.30am, both arrive and soon followed by the other volunteers and this is where our work starts. Some familiar faces like Chris, Uncle Sunny, Aunt Jenny, Amelia, Raymond and Tony were present.

Firstly is to pack up breakfast packs for volunteers before dividing the remaining into their respective role. In the food distribution department, there were 15 of us but 5 were "loaned" out to the timing department. Once all duties were divided, we then started moving the food pack into it respective places.

There were 2 categories, the 6KM and 12KM ad we set up 2 separate lanes as the content of the pack was slightly different. Once runner completes their run, they will then proceed a little further down to collect their medals, before turning up to collect their food pack. Sounds easy eh... But when the main onslaught came, it was like a war zone. We were working ourselves off trying to distribute the food pack as fast as possible hoping to clear the area of any congestion. I was moving everywhere lifting heavy boxes of drinks. Talk about weight training. Juliana after completing her run was kind enough to offer her assistance. Even Jamie came into action himself. Team work at its best.

After about 2 hours or so, things came to a close and the show is finally over. Cleaning up and chilling out is on the next agenda before collecting our "salary" from Wan. I did not want to accept but Wan mentioned that his accounts will be all mess up if I don't and therefore I accepted it only to donate it fully to my cancer research foundation. Thank you Wan.

Overall, the event was a success. Managing about 3,700 number of runners, and though there were some hiccups, it was a tremendous first time effort by Runners Malaysia and co. What I saw was a tremendous amount of team effort being put in. And it was indeed an experience to see the race perspective from a volunteer's angle. It was certainly not an easy task, and that is why, volunteers are always regarded the unsung silent heroes of an event. Kudos to all!

Newton New Year Challenge 2012...

Event: Newton New Year Challenge 2012

Venue: Bandar Kinrara, Puchong

Date: 1 January 2012

Time: 5.30am

Distance: 25KM (24.53KM by Polar RCX5 G5 GPS)

Shoe: K-Swiss K-Ruuz 1.5

By Frank

It's the first day of 2012! HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone! Hope most of you had wonderful year 2011 and had a blast ushering the new year. For me, I woke up at the stroke of midnight on the new year's day with fireworks bombarding the sky send the neighbourhood dogs crazy and scared. Only 2 hours of sleep for me. But that wasn't exactly the bad thing. I had a bad end to year 2011 when I suffered 4 purging yesterday, followed by 2 more before leaving the house to the race site this morning. Legs were a little jellified but the worst was... Ahh... Never mind. I shall not go into too much details.

The plan was to run a 17KM pre race run first starting at 3.20am which I did back in 2010 where we run to the 4.5KM junction before returning to race site, and we have to do it twice. I arrived late as I was stopped by traffic police at a road block set up near Damansara Perdana. Probably my race apparel that I was wearing is too red and he thought that I must have been partying through the night. I showed him my race bib and told him that I was going for run and off I went. The pre run this time was joined by Jeff, Roy and Bernard and we set out at a pretty fast pace hoping to make up some time. Yim already started before us. Probably on a secret training himself. Hehehe... Just before arriving back at the race site on our first loop, we spotted Jamie, Loke and Wind and decided to cut short our return trip as we are running out of time. Pace was still good and my tummy is not showing any issues yet, probably because I'm not putting anything in.

Completed our run which was shortened to 15KM with 15 minutes to spare till race time. Took some liquid and quickly change my shoes giving my new K-Swiss K-Ruuz 1.5 its debut. And during the changing process, there was this man driving a Hyundai Matrix bearing plate number WLN 8172 asking me to move my car a little so that he can squeeze into the parking lot next to my car. I was reluctant to do so cause the lot was just too small but to prevent any argument on new year's day, I move my vehicle. And I regretted my decision later!

Met up with lots of friends and wished everyone a Happy New Year before the race was officiated at 5.30am sharp. Off I went after finding a clear route to run. It won't do justice if I don't run first in my new shoes. I felt like flying and I better do it before fatigue takes over me. I took in some GU Chomps and it started triggering my already problematic tummy some at near 7KM mark. I decided to ditch the remaining hoping no further damage is done hence I started giving out my GU Roctane and GU Chomps to other runners who may need them.

My tummy felt like a washing machine doing its spin. I felt really bloated. I started to slow down and I felt bad. At 11KM, I started walking but quickly resume when Kannan joined me. We had a hearty chat before I lost it again and he zoomed off. I just kept moving and slowly chip away the distance.

At about 15KM near Lestari Perdana, while making my return, I spotted Jeff, Roy and Bernard at the opposite side. They are suffering as well. And just ahead, Terence called out to me and we had some "friendly argument". I was slowly ascending while he descending. He told me that hill was created for us to walk up and not run. I replied to him saying that he registered the race to run and not walk. Hahaha... That was some amusement and hope we didn't wake up the neighbourhood.

With Pui San and Carrie (photo courtesy of Dannie)...

At about 17KM, I was joined by Pui San, Gary and Daryl. We ran together for a while before I went ahead a little before regrouping with Pui San again. With about 4.5KM more to go, Dannie and Carrie joined in and we ran together till with about 2.5KM to go before I went for it. I was just glad to see the finish line after spending almost 5 hours on the road on my legs. I completed the race in 03:07:11 and my total new year run with a distance of 40KM in a time of 04:44:44. What a time eh!

Back at the car after lingering with friends, knowing something will go wrong, I quickly check on the passengers door. And quickly enough, I spotted a vertical scratch which is pretty deep and immediately I know who is the culprit. "THANK YOU" Hyundai Matrix WLN 8172 owner. A very "HAPPY NEW YEAR" to you! For those who knows me on how much I take care of my car, this is something I'm really PISS at!

My finisher's medal and "New Year gift" on my car...

Overall, though I enjoyed the run as part of my Comrades training and was glad that nothing unfortunate due to my tummy happened, I found that the event was not up to par. In fact, the quality deteriorate from 2010's edition. Lack of man power at refreshment station and I had wait and pour my own. Traffic control wasn't that great too. The only positive thing will be a few volunteers and road marshals was all with smiles especially those giving out the medals. They tried their very best to congratulate each finishers' with a smile, something simple which will make his or her's day.

So yeah, a 40KM on new year's day. Could been better but I'm overall satisfied. Oh and yes. There were a lot calling out to me whom I don't know. My apologies but I just won't know who you are until you introduce yourself. Perhaps the next time when we meet. And finally of course, my favourite racing flat has been "reincarnated" as the K-Swiss K-Ruuz 1.5 and I'm absolutely loving it. A review will come soon...

Predecessor (white/red/blue) and successor (red/yellow)...

The Year That Was 2011...

By Frank

Another year is coming to a close. It was like I just step into the year 2011, right now I'm saying goodbye to it. A year that was filled with work a plenty, meeting new friends and colleagues, a closure of a chapter and also the opening of a new one. Running was extremely minimal this year, but a few achievements was achieved and all I have to say is that I'm grateful that I'm still able to enter this entry here.

The most obvious turning point of my life in 2011 that affected me most will be the closure of the Runnerz Circle physical store. It was not an easy decision to end something I created from scratch but when something is beginning to go wrong, it's better to end it before further damage is done. In the 1 year journey, I'm glad I have good people who have stood by me yet even till today, and I have absolutely no problems with mentioning their names here. In fact, I'm proud to have them as part of a team. Jamie, Yip, Eugene, Raymond and Michelle, I sincerely THANK all of you for the assistance giving in believing in the principle that I've always believe and stood on.

A new chapter continued on. As Runnerz Circle ended its run, a new company was established with the company that was supplying me the most brands back then. But never did I though that I had this chance to actually establish Running Lab Malaysia with its founder from Singapore, Walter. Although it took a lot out of me even till today, I cherished the opportunity and trust given to me and will give everything to build the company and also to give back to the running community with the knowledge I've gained over the years. And it's also through here that I met new colleagues whom has been very helpful though we are separated apart by countries.

Though I may not be running fast or as long as before anymore in the year 2011, I'm glad that some friends especially Karen, Yim, Roy, Paul and Chee Kong are making really great progress themselves. Even without running, the knowledge towards the sports on how to listen to our body and being patience is something Khairul proudly showed out to the community. Chasing dreams is in everyone's mind, but these friends has shown to many out there, that it can be done in a fun way without risking much in life. And also, running isn't a sport about one self. It's about everyone around us, sharing the joy, pain and laughter together with every step taken.

As for running achievements, nothing much actually. I do not know my running distance for this year as my online training journal at Buckeye Outdoors suffered a server crash back in March 2011 hence not able to track back. However, despite doing more ultra marathons this year and completing the gruelling 100KM distance, most was done below par. However, most was done in a very "happy go lucky" manner in which most importantly is that I enjoyed them.

My ultimate 2012 race...

I hope to be running more in year 2012. I've managed to qualify for the ultimate human race, the Comrades Marathon 2012 "Down" race that is scheduled to be held on 3 June 2012. Qualification is through running a sub 5 hours marathon at an AIMS certified route and I did it the tough way at the Penang Bridge International Marathon 2011. The largest ultra marathon in the world and perhaps one of the most prestigious, training is something I really hope I will have time to do. Travelling halfway around the world, I will really want something out of it. And not forgetting that I will be running as part of charity to raise fund for cancer research, something I myself as a survivor have always wanted to do.

But anyhow, here's to a great 2012! And yes, I be racing again on New Year's day. What a start to it eh!

Want To Run The LA Marathon 2012?

Win a travel package to run in the 2012 Honda LA Marathon

Presented by K-Swiss

The LA Marathon contest is back! From 15 Dec '11 to 31 Jan '12, purchase any pair of K-Swiss shoes at Running Lab, Tropicana City Mall for the chance to win your place in the 2012 LA Marathon presented by K-Swiss!

We have 2 travel packages (worth SGD4,000 / RM10,000 each) up for grabs!

All you need to do is:

1. Take a photo with the K-Swiss logo at Running Lab and email the photo together with a short write-up in 50 words on why you deserve to win to KSwiss@outdoor-venture.com

2. In your email, please include your Full Name, NRIC number, Contact Number, Address, Age and Gender.

3. We will upload each complete entry onto www.facebook.com/KSwissSG by the next working day.

4. Winner will be decided via number of “Likes” at the end of the campaign.

Terms and Conditions:

• The contest is open to citizens/permanent residents aged 18 and above.

• Employees of K-Swiss, Running Lab, Outdoor Venture, Sports Haven and their immediate family members are not entitled to enter the lucky draw.

• The contest period is from 15 December 2011 to 31 January 2012, both dates inclusive.

• 2 winners will be selected from the contest. Each prize includes round-trip plane tickets between Singapore and LA (if the winner is residing in Malaysia, he/she will have to take care of own transport to and from Singapore), accommodation, LA marathon entry and local transportation. Winners have to take care of their own passport/VISA expenses. Prizes are not exchangeable for cash.

• Travelling period will be from 16th to 19th March 2012. The date of the LA marathon race is on 18th March 2012.

• The winners agree to co-operate with and participate in any advertising or publicity activities of K-Swiss relating to the Draw and agrees that K-Swiss may publicise the name and/or photograph of each winner in such mode and manner as K-Swiss considers fit, without any payment or compensation thereof.

• The winners will have to submit a post-race report of 300-500 words including photographs for K-Swiss’ use.

• If any person is subsequently discovered to be not entitled or ineligible to participate in the Draw or ineligible to receive the prize, K-Swiss reserves the right to forfeit/reclaim the prize at its discretion and confer the same on any other person as may be selected by K-Swiss in any manner as K-Swiss deems fit. No person shall be entitled to any payment or compensation from K-Swiss should any prize be forfeited.

• K-Swiss reserves the right to change any terms and conditions without prior notice. Unless otherwise indicated by K-Swiss, all prizes are non-transferable and are not exchangeable for cash or for any other item.

• Winners will be announced (on facebook.com/KSwissSG and in-store) on 7th February 2012 and prizes must be claimed by 20th February 2012.

• All winners will be contacted by phone/email and must present their NRIC to claim their prizes.

• K-Swiss shall not be responsible for any consequences including but not limited to loss of life, injury to person and/or damage to property arising from or in connection with the Lucky Draw and/or redemption or use of the prizes.

MR25 Cross Country Ultra Marathon 2011...

Event: MR25 Cross Country Ultra Marathon 2011

Venue: MacRitchie Reservoir, Singapore

Date: 18 December 2011

Time: 7.00am

Distance: 10.2KM per loop(to run as many in 12 hours)

Shoe: Vibram FiveFingers TrekSport

By Frank

Last running event of the year and it has always been in my to run list each year in 2009. A no frills, no pressure and get together event, MR25 is where down to earth ultra marathoners gather together to celebrate running, at least for us from Malaysia.

I woke up real early on Saturday as I wanted to meet up with Geraldine who surprisingly make a very secretive trip back from the land of kangaroos. She arrived with Jamie at Bukit Aman at about 6am and after catching up for just about 15 minutes or so, both of them started their run while I made my return home to pick up my luggage before rushing off to Bangsar to catch my coach at 7.30am. I was in the same bus with Yip, Jeff, Maui, Chin Ann and Poh Chye. Journey was good and I was glad I had my tablet to keep me company.

5 hours later, we arrived safely at Novena Square and proceeded straight to the food court for lunch. We were just really hungry. Had my usual Korean Bibimbap before hanging out in the mall for a while and also catching up with my Singaporean colleagues at Running Lab.

This time round, myself and Yip chose to stay at Value Hotel, Thomson rather than our usual Fragrance Hotel, Oasis as the room is a little bigger, cosier and comes equip with Wi-Fi. Not to mention about SGD$20 more too. After unpacking and a little rest, I made my way back to Novena Square to meet up with Carey and Karen for dinner at a Japanese restaurant at United Square. Great to catch up with them outside the store and office as friends. Dinner was all right, but dessert was the bomb. Had awesome ice cream at a small cozy shop call Udder just outside the mall. Had Pistachio and Dark Chocolate although I still find the latter lacking the bitterness. From there, its back to Running Lab, Novena Square where we hung around for a little while more before parting ways. Thanks Marketing Department for the company and dinner, and not forgetting the shoes. :D

Back at the hotel, a last check on the race gear before turning in at about 11pm. Sleep wasn't good as the room's sound proofing was just bad that I could hear the neighbours chatting hence causing me to wake up a little late. But luckily, all morning preparation went smoothly and by 6.30am, myself and Yip were at MacRitchie Reservoir already.

Got our race number and the usual greetings with fellow running friends followed by photo sessions. At 7am, the usual siren went off to signal the start. Off I went starting from the center pack this time round. No hurry this time round unlike last year where friends said I zoomed out like a rocket. As it rained yesterday, the trails were a little slippery and therefore, I had to be careful with my each steps. Mid way through MacRitchie Trail, the urge to pee came. I swore I have made my deposit before the event started and why is there extras? Sigh... Had to detour to the ranger post at about 4KM to relieve myself and this wasted time and momentum. Not to mention company too.

My first loop was done in just slightly more than an hour. Second loop was still ok but signs of leg soreness is starting show. At halfway through the third, I took my first walk. To make matters worst, I was hungry, really hungry. I was thinking of Udder ice cream which I had yesterday, and perhaps a Mos burger will drop down from the sky some where. With this, I decied to stop for lunch after completing my third. Was joined by Razif and we ate together. I opt for rice which was a bad choice as not only it taste bland, it over filled me. Too heavy sitting in my stomach, I wasn't able to run hence I decided to walk till I felt better. Razif managed to run though and it was back to square one for me, alone.

Exiting MacRitchie Trail for the fourth time, I decided to run a bit. Rain clouds were forming and I knew a repeat of last year will be in the books soon. "Just let me complete my 5 loops in dry conditions please", I told myself. But then, I spotted my ex-colleague Blue at the ranger post and we had about a 15 to 20 minutes chat. Was great to catch up with him, and also glad that he came as a photographer. Thanks Blue!

When I started my fifth loop, the weather was still fine. However, when I got to the ranger post, a sharp pain on my lower back caused me to stop. I leaned against a signage pole there to stretch myself hoping to relive the pain. It did, although it took some time, just enough time for the sky to open up just after the u-turn. And boy, it was really heavy at least for a short while. And during this short burst of rainfall, was where I caught Yim red "legged" at the golf course area running his sixth loop when he mentioned that 5 was enough! Hahaha... Good for him though as I can see he is really enjoying himself.

Back into MacRitchie Trail, it was tough. The muddy and slippery condition made my run hard but I was glad that I did not slip over any loose rocks which may have been submerged by the rain water. Exiting the trail, the sun greeted me and with 1KM to go, I was glad I made this far. 5 loops isn't something remarkable, but this is one run that is meant to be enjoyed which I did completing my 5 loops in 09:10:11. Even my finishing timing number is in sync. Hahaha...

Was reunited with Paul and Tey before I found out about Yip. He again purged and managed also only 5 loops. He looked tired but wasn't as bad as the past 2 years. After collecting my finisher's vest and also the very unique cloth certificate, I rested and refueled before returning to the hotel with Yip to clean up and rest. However, Yip this time round wasn't as badly "damaged" as we both proceeded for dinner after a short rest. We met up with Lynette at Balestier food court and had barbeque steamboat buffet which was just nice after a tough run. I'm sure Yip had a wonderful meal too as he walloped about 3 or 4 bowls of ice kacang. Hehe... But most importantly, we had a great time catching up with Lynette who always had been a great host when we visit Singapore. Thanks Lynette!

Back at the hotel after cleaning up ourselves, we didn't even want to spend too much time packing as we just doze off pretty instantly. Even the noisy neighbours didn't manage to disturb this time round.

Next morning was a wet one too. Our coach back was scheduled at 12.30pm and it was smooth one too despite the long rainy journey. And with this, comes a close to 2011 racing calender. It was a tough MR25 outing, perhaps the toughest of all 3 I've ran. Perhaps was due to my lack of running now, but as Paul mentioned, weird pain on various parts is showing among runners this time round and for me was my mysterious lower back pain I suffered during my fifth loop. But you know me. Don't think too much about it and perhaps it will just go away. Till MR25 the next year!

The End Of An Era...

By Frank

Time certainly flies and it is now 2 years since I ran my marathon personal best at the Macau Marathon 2009. And according to the Boston Marathon qualifying standards, a personal best will only last for 2 years. And with my "expiry" date just around the corner, looking back at fond memories of Macau will be a good idea.

Back then while preparing for the Macau Marathon 2009, I have set my sights that it will be the marathon that I will give my all sacrificing everything that may come in my way. "A sub 4 hour is a must!", I told myself. I trained hard and smart and live a dull lifestyle. "Why dull?", you ask me. I changed my lifestyle for a period of 6 months staying away from delicious but yet unhealthy food, sacrificing my time with friends by going to bed early in order to wake up early the next morning to clock the distance and doing nothing but to train. I clocked an average of 25KM per day and at one point even managed to hit 300KM in a span of just one week.

Macau 2009 (photo credit to Lynn)...

The trip to Macau with my travel mates of Lynn, Chin Chin, Shih Ming, Saya, Shine, Victor, Raymond Hee, Keat Seong and Jennifer was a memorable one too. The nervous moment for me only came in the morning of the race day where I stood aside from everyone to calm my nerves. I wanted to be alone for a moment before the race start for I do not know what may happen to me. And when the race started, I never looked back and went for it. I ran with everything I could and finally did it though I miss my target timing by around 5 minutes due to a toilet stop. It was a painful run and in the end after crossing the finish line, I almost blacked out with a very painful pair of legs. I was cold and I just laid on the stadium track alone till Keat Seong came to my aid.

A painful personal best (photo credit to Jennifer Ng)...

And today, looking back at it and seeing many friends participating in this year's edition certainly bring back fond memories of it, and in the mean time being envious of them. I have not run a good marathon timing since then. I though my body deserve a break after that but the unfortunate happen when I fell from my bike a month after, injuring myself. And since recovering, my focus was on the ultra distance, something I truly enjoy till now.

I don't think I can hack away my marathon personal best and it will be this to stay till I check-out from this world. It's not easy to run a sub 4 hour marathon and with many ultra distance events I want and favour to do, running the marathon has become something secondary for me. I still do enjoy it, but running the ultra brings out a different something out from me.

Come this 4 December 2011, to my friends like Yim, Ben and Yee Hua who will be running this year's edition, do run well for it's a fast course. Besides, with nothing much to see over the 2 loops, I'm sure a fast time will be in the pocket considering the weather is just almost perfect. Therefore, if you guys are able to read this before the run, do say "HI" for me to both the MGM lions. :)

If you guys are wondering what is my personal best timing, it's 03:40:38 hours clocked at the Macau Marathon 2009, and this personal best timing will expire this 4 December 2011. An end of an era for me. But perhaps a start of something new...