The North Face 100 Singapore 2012...

Event: The North Face 100 Singapore 2012

Venue: MacRitchie Reservoir, Singapore

Date: 13 October 2012

Time: 6.45am

Distance: 50KM (48KM by Polar RCX5 G5 GPS)

Shoe: ASICS GEL-Fuji Racer

By Frank

The 5th and the annual event organised by the parent company I worked in, The North Face 100 Singapore saw a different refreshing twist to this year's edition. Not only was it well improved over last year's fiasco, this year also saw a much improved route despite shorter and also a cooler weather.

3 of us from Running Lab Malaysia which includes myself, Syah and Roy were to run this year's edition. However, Roy had to pull out a week before as he sprained his ankle. Not wanting to to waste the race bib, Ben took over his slot.

I travelled down via coach on Friday itself and made my way to office to have some office matters settled before hand. And when all is done, together with the team, we all proceeded to MacRitchie Reservoir which happens to be the race site to finalised the setup there. I was helping out setting up the tear drop flags and anything else that came in my way. I tried to keep some energy for myself too so I hope I did not get into the way of the others. Once everything was done, I went over to Walter's house which was nearby to clean myself up before heading to Singapore Polo Ground for dinner with Nic and also a personnel from The North Face's principal office.

Once dinner is done, it's off to my cousin, Eugene's house to prepare my race gear before calling it a night.

I had only 4 hours of sleep and I was a little tired. Did all my preparation and it all went well and I was all ready an hour before my schedule time to leave at 5am. Eugene drove me to the race site at 5.30am and the place was already packed with runners. Did all my necessary and met up with Ben, Hong Soon, Mohan, Foo, David and many others.

And just after checking after checking in myself to start, I heard a familiar voice calling out "MR AFRICA"! It was Yim who had just completed his first 50KM loop of this total running distance of 100KM! An amazing feat from him, we all motivated him and took the chance for some photos together. And while we 50KM runners line up for our start, we all cheered for him as he made his way out followed shortly by another Malaysian runner friend of mine, Razif!

Priceless shot of 50KM runners with Yim (2nd from left), the 100KM runner just before exiting for his next 50KM...

The 50KM start this year was a much better affair compared to previous year. The ambience and mood was good as I started with Hong Soon who will immediately went missing after crossing the start gantry. Not intending to follow as I just had doctor's clearance to run this event with caution, I ran on my own comfy pace following what my heart rate monitor has been set to do.

The first 6KM plus or so on trails was a rather fast affair for me. As my body was still fresh, my heart rate was beating strongly. I lost my control here and it was the moment when I exited the trail for a moment that I started to slow down, and told myself to just make it back to the finish safely on 2 legs.

The GU support station. Gels and Chomps galore...

Into dairy farm where I got lost last year, this part saw a change of route which is very refreshing for me. Mixture of trail and tarmac, I truly enjoyed this area as the volunteers were cheerful here too! The first and probably the biggest GU Energy support station was also here. Fueled myself up here before going into the trails again and soon arriving at Zhenghua Park. Familiar place here, I spotted Yek Bun and a few others cheering for runners just below the overhead bridge here.

Running through the thick bushes at the KTM track...

As I make my way to Mandai, the sun began to shine. A new friend and customer at my work place, Jamie passed me here near Mandai Orchard Garden, a place which I did not like due to lack of trees. Haha... Spotted a fellow runner who is suffering cramps here and I stopped to help him and to make sure he will shake it off. And he did, continuing his adventure slowly but safely from there.

Finally arriving at the crossing of Mandai Road, Lorong Asrama is next to welcome the runners. and just before entering that area, Yek Bun was there again and he offered me a refreshing cold barley drink! I must say it was HEAVENLY! 

Inside Lorong Asrama this area is a love and hate area. Not easy to run here due to the heat and also the big rocky terrain with ascend and descend, but this area is also filled with memories I had with my friends. David passed me steadily at this area. Seeing him running so well, I did not want to call out to him for fears he will slow down to accompany me. And when I got to Hill 265, I was hoping that Syah will catch up, which he DID! Just like last year, we pose for a photo again before attacking it. And this year, I did not go down on 4 as the shoes I wore this time provided the sufficient traction to bring me up.

Cam-whoring with Syah before attacking Hill 265...

I ran with Syah for a while before I spotted Fred who is cramping all over running his maiden 100KM. Although he is complaining, I can see that he is still in a good shape and with only 20KM plus to go, I know he will nail it. Just before exiting Loron Asrama, I met an Indonesian Chinese runner Zedy and we spend a few moments together walking till the support station. And just when I was about to cross the Mandari Road crossing again, I saw James Liew whom I met during Craze Ultra 2012 running strongly on his second loop. Way to go! Yek Bun was still here and this time he offered me some grapes which I politely rejected as I just something earlier. Can't go in mate but thanks yeah!

Continuing on, the weather took a change for a better. Of all the 3 The North Face 100 Singapore I did, this year rather different. There were signs of rain but it held on. The clouds kept the sun ray's at bay. Fast forwarding to the entrance of dairy farm where I pop out somewhere near the rifle range, I saw Lin Hong manning the support station there and gave him a wave! Took a break here chatting with him before I continued on. As every step forward nears me to the finish, I began to find some extra strength in me and I began to run more often now but still keeping it to a very easy pace.

And finally, into the area which I like a lot, the golf course area. I continue my walk and running here till I suddenly heard someone shouting to me "MR BURGER". I looked back and to my surprise I saw Ben! I would have though he will have been far far ahead of me. However, due to his recent viral infection, he walked all the way from the start only to start running when he saw me. And I was like OMG! He walked all the way here and still managed to pass me? I better go find a hole and hide myself in there, I joked.

Into the final stretch where Lornie Trail is, I know the end is near. I met Zedy again and we ran for a moment together. And when I finally saw the light at the end of the trail, I was going strong until I saw a guy wearing a 2ndskin shirt. I slowed down wanting to snap a photo of it to show to Eugene of 2ndskin but when that particular person turned around, I was shocked to see that it was Roy! Hahaha... Then at the exit, Nic called me to ask where I was as I earlier text him a cheeky message. Haha... 

Then 500M became 400M and shorter as I near the finish line. Friends like Azrul, Syed, Nyoman and many others were at the side cheering. And finally, I ran through the finish gantry clocking a personal worst timing of mine from all the 3 editions I've ran in, in 07:46:38 hours. Hahaha... I was glad though that I made it back with no discomfort to the chest and it's one event that I truly enjoyed.

The finisher's medal...

Rested while exchanging our running experience with some others and also awaiting others to return, it was a great bonding session with the others. And the moment of truth happen when our hero Yim who completed his 100KM TMBT trail and 100 miles Craze Ultra 3 weeks ago returned! Am so proud of him and certainly an inspiration to many others for his physical and mental strength is something truly admirable. 

Chilling out with my ice cream and Roy...

Despite the shorter distance of just 48KM and the hiccups of the finisher medals being a 100KM finisher version (rectified medal will be send out on a later date), the event this year round was a major success. It's a step forward and I can see the effort being put in by the team and I'm proud of them. 

I had fun running this event this year and again, more friends were made as this is certainly one beauty of running ultra events. And it's also god to see many new runners especially those whom I have given advise to tackling the distance successfully.

I would like to thank Walter for sponsoring Team Running Lab Malaysia 3 complimentary race slots for our runners. And also to thank and congratulate the team from Outdoor Venture, The North Face, organisers and sponsors for a job well done this year. Despite a few hiccups, I would say this is a very positive result and improvement from last year's edition. Keep up the good work and we hope to run an even better The North Face 100 Singapore next year!

* a note of THANKS to the photographers who took excellent shots as posted above that will serve as a lifetime memories.

ASICS Piranha SP4...

By Frank

The lightest shoe ever made by ASICS weighting at just about 120grams, the ASICS Piranha SP 4 (PSP4) is a racing flat that I truly enjoy very much. Coming in a very sleek white, black and gold finish. the PSP4 has a very low heel to toe differential measuring at only 5mm.

The ASICS Piranha SP4...

Lateral view of the shoes...

Medial view of the shoe...

The upper of the PSP4 is made of some lightweight mesh that offers a very excellent finish as most graphics are heat welded on it, thus minimising seams within the shoe. Both lateral and medial toebox areas of the shoe has no seams at all thus allowing excellent fit for the toes. Being offered in only a "D" width, a seamless option will allow some expandable feature from the material itself hence offering a hugging but yet snug fit.

Heat welded graphics hence no seams and an expandable toebox...

To reduce weight, flat laces are used again just like in the ASICS GEL-Hyper Speed 5. It kept coming loose and it will be best to choose to stay tied laces or even bungee cord laces. The tongue offers no padding but a very cleaver feature is that it is a continuous structure continuing from the shoe's medial side hence offers no movement during running.

The continuous tongue...

The collar too offers minimal padding. However, a very tough structure is used at the heel counter to protect the Achilles region which may be plastic reinforcement. However sadly to say, the poor finishing at this area gave me a poor impression to this great shoe. The joint on a particular black stripe are not done properly hence leaving an impression of a poor cosmetic design. And a quick check with my friend Jimmy who happens to have the same shoe too had his one peeled off.

Noticed the badly done joint just above the number "4"...

The midsole is built using Solyte EVA material, the lighter yet softer cousin of the tougher and heavier SpEVA. I guess I understand the reason as a shoe being this thin, a little cushioning may help hence I truly agree on the use of it.

The outsole is totally flat with ASICS High Abrasion Rubber (AHAR) placed at strategic placed at strategic high wear and tear area, which one of them at the ball of the feet forefoot area! A 5mm differential shoe, this is one area that needs reinforcement as mid to forefoot striking is made quite possible. Black beads are placed at the forefoot area to offer traction and of course durability. And speaking of durability, the outsole of this shoe does not last! Although AHAR is used, the amount is of very thin and it only takes a couple of marathon distance or so to probably eat into it.

Outsole of the forefoot area...

Reinforcement of AHAR at the heel outsole...

The PSP4 is an overall great shoe probably just plagued by a few cosmetic problem and a very steep price. If you want speed and instant feedback from the very low profile stack height that offers superior propulsion and don't mind the very high wear and tear rate, look no further than this very deadly "fish".If there is only 1 improvement that I will like to have in its successor, ASICS can consider to reduce the heel to toe differential to either maybe 4mm or go totally flat at 0mm! Oh and yes. The PSP4 is of the ASICS Japanese line-up hence do try out for size first before committing as it truly is very different.

The ASICS Piranha SP 4 is now available at major ASICS authorised dealer and retails at a recommended selling price of RM429.00

DNF, Check-Up and A Lesson Learnt...

By Frank

As most of you will have known, I suffered my first Did Not Finish (DNF) at the Craze Ultra 2012 slightly more than a couple of weeks ago due to chest tightness and shortness of breathe. It was a bitter pill to swallow for being my first but I was glad that nothing happen to me and that I get a chance to run yet another day.

So what happened that day? At the morning before the race, I was tired and a little grumpy too. I did not have a good pre-race preparation hence that may have contributed to it. And from my blood and urine test that was released to me by Phil just last week, both my blood and urine sodium level was a little on the low side. Not that it is alarming or did I suffered cramps during the race, it is something I need to look into still.

During the race itself, despite the crazy hot and humid weather, I was all OK till hitting the 60KM plus mark when I felt my first problem. And upon arriving at the checkpoint, I took a rest and felt better before continuing on to the half way point at 82KM before calling it a day there after suffering the second round of symptoms and as per advised by the medics and friends.

So upon returning home, I took a week's plus long rest to allow my body to settle down before going for a medical check-up. And the result was out yesterday. All is good from my heart size, heart rate, cholesterol level to uric acid level. But the exception was my blood pressure which was a little on the high side.

What may have attributed to my blood pressure result was probably due to my stress, fatigue and also most likely from the happenings that affected my mood lately thanks to a certain company.

So lesson learnt from my first DNF:

1) Spend less time on the legs especially the day before the race.

2) Have a good rest, turn in early the night before and get to know your travel mates way before travelling together.

3) Call it quits when you have to especially when symptoms appears for the second time.

So from this entry, I hope to share with everyone that there is no point to continue on during an event or even a normal workout should you feel uncomfortable. There is always another to join in. Most important is that we are still breathing and still living in this world. Cast aside your ego, call it quits when you have to, and the reward will be more and more things to look out for in the future. And for me, I now have the clearance to participate in this weekend's The North Face Singapore 50KM Ultra. Yeap, and this is my reward for being smart (self praise can? :p)

* Also I would like to take this opportunity to THANK everyone who has shown their concern towards me and also to those who have visited me at my work place throughout the last 2 weeks or so.

ASICS GEL-Hyper Speed 5...

By Frank

A favourite racing shoe for the current American top half marathoner Ryan Hall. the ASICS GEL-Hyper Speed 5 (HS5) as the name suggest is built for speed. With a stack height of 14mm and with a heel to toe differential of 7mm, this is one shoe that is probably considered close to minimalist since barely any of ASICS proprietary technologies are built into it.

The ASICS GEL-Hyper Speed 5...

I received the HS5 courtesy of ASICS Malaysia for my participation in the Craze Ultra 2012. It'a a perfect race to put the shoe to test on how well it will stack against the many odds.

Lateral view of the shoe...

Medial view of the shoe...

The shoe's upper is made of complete traditional overlays that looks like any other traditional shoes. The material looks cheap but it does its job holding up pretty well. I will rather to have a synthetic material like those found on the ASICS Gel-DS Racer 9 (DSR9) as it saves weight, allows better ventilation and also minimize the seams within the shoe's interior. Although seams were very noticeable, it did not cause me any irritation at all. Fit wise, I found the size to be slight a little bigger than the DSR9. Though being a racing shoe, the toebox is of reasonable space and I've no problems with it despite after running 82KM at Craze Ultra 2012.

Traditional overlays with lots of stitching...

The tongue is well padded but it does seem to move around which was very irritating. And as for the laces, ASICS chose to use the flat laces to save weight. I'm no fan of flat laces as it tends to loosen easily. I had to double or even triple tie it to prevent it and that may cause some problems undoing it to take off the shoes especially during an ultra race when I just had to relieve my poor feet. The collar was reasonable padded to give a secure hug for the Achilles region.

The padded collar which does a good job...

Earlier, I mentioned that although with a 7mm heel to toe differential, this shoe is only close to minimalist as there is still a midfoot arch shank to assist in pronation control. I rather it not be there and just leave the overall to be flat like the K-Swiss Blade-Foot Run or Blade-Light Run.

The shoe's midsole is made of SpEVA instead of the lighter yet softer Solyte with a rear foot GEL cushioning system. I've grown to actually like the harder and more responsive SpEVA rubber as I don't feel being "drown" by a softer material. However, being at 14mm stack height, and for some reasons, I still found myself being "drown" with every step and a little bit more effort is needed to propel my next step. And to protect the midsole from wear and tear, the ever trustworthy ASICS High Abrasion Rubber is placed at strategic areas. The forefoot area is design like a web to provide traction especially on wet surfaces and the design is pretty similar to the ASICS Skysensor Neo. The outsol alsoe consist of a few ventilation and drainage ports which come in handy when the weather either gets too hot or wet. 

The durability of the shoe was put to the maximum test at the harsh conditions of the Craze Ultra 2012. Though most parts of the shoes held up well, the same can't be said with the outsole. After running 82KM, the forefoot area melted away literary leaving only a piece of smoothen rubber under the intense heat of say about 40 degree Celsius. The heel area was fine though and this has proven what a 7mm or lower  heel to toe differential can do to our running gait. 

Gone after 82KM of torture...

Overall and personally speaking, the HS5 is an over-rated shoe. It's still a good shoe but I would not call it great. The ASICS Skysensor Neo and also the GEL-DS Racer 9 deserves a much more better attention. And I do think that the colour-way can be improved. The one strength of this shoe is probably the affordable price.

The ASICS GEL-Hyper Speed 5 retails at a recommended selling price of RM349.00 and is now available at major ASICS authorised dealers.

Craze Ultra 2012...

Event: Craze Ultra 2012

Venue: MacRitchie Reservoir

Date: 22 September 2012

Time: 7.00am

Distance: 100 miles / 161KM

Shoe: ASICS GEL-Hyper Speed 5

By Frank

My longest running distance has been clocked at the 100KM Sundown Marathon 2011. And my toughest run to date will be the Comrades Marathon 2012 "Down" run. Then came the chance to change all that when my good friend Ben of Running Guild Singapore, the brainchild behind the Twilight Ultra Challenge came up with the idea of Craze Ultra with the distance of 100 miles or 160KM!

A last minute arrangement, I was to run my first ever 100 miles race, in helping to raise funds for the cause I am championing for CARIF. Arrangement was put in and by the evening of 21 September 2012, a website was launch hoping that with my running effort, I can raise about RM5,000 within a month. It was certainly an honour to raise funds once again, but there was a little pressure indeed as the distance is certainly unknown to me. To know more about it, hit this LINK.

Fast forwarding to the event, I travelled down to Singapore a day before the event on board Jetstar with Bernard, Boon, Steven and Uncle. Roy is greatly missed here. Upon arrival and doing all the necessary checking in at The Hive Backpackers near Boon Keng MRT, we proceeded to the race venue of MacRitchie Reservoir to collect our race pack in the evening. And once done, it's back to the hostel to call it a day. I was really tired and it wasn't a good sign. I've spend too much time on foot and I was "boiling".

I didn't sleep well. In fact I woke up even before my alarm went off. All I put in was only like 4 hours and not a quality one too. No turning back, I did all my necessary pre run ritual before leaving for race site at 6am. And arriving there, the place was a lively one. Met familiar faces and new friends too. Had my blood drawn by Phil's associate to studies which I myself am interested to know. It's only 15ml by the way.

Part of the Malaysian Craze contingent...

The race was flag off sharply at 7am. I quickly settled into a comfy pace at about 7.30 minutes per kilometer. I was soon called out by Adam 1Arm Runner and we ran and chatted together before another familiar face join in, the ever inspirational Yim. We continued on till we hit the first checkpoint (CP1) which I did not stop as I am still fully equipped.

On the way to CP2, I was again with Yim and together, we ran pass the old now abandoned Woodlands Immigration. It was memories for me as this is where I travelled along during my treatment days some 20 years ago. And by the coastal stretch, I can see my hometown Johor Bahru though covered in haze. Soon, CP2 appeared and I absolutely like this area, located within a small cozy park. Hydrated myself and powered up my phone to post updates on my Facebook before continuing on.

To CP3 at Sembawang, the weather was still pretty OK though signs of a burning sun is quickly showing. I quickly settled in with a group of runners with Tammy, Kartono and Chee Ming being the first, followed by another group of 100KM runners. It's good to be running with a group and though I kept loosing them due to my slower pace, we always regrouped at the traffic light junction when the light turns red. Hahaha...

At CP3 with Chee Ming, Kartono and Tammy...

Arriving at CP3, I was glad to see Phil and Yee Hua there. Took some watermelons and hydrated myself with water before continuing on to CP4 located at Yishun. And along the route, met more runners which include seasoned ultra runner James.

Got lost for a while, but the map saved us and we arrived safely at CP4 after running pass many traffic lights, MRT station, bus stations and Khoo Teck Puat Hospital. But that's not before a familiar face appear some 500M before the checkpoint. It was Kash with family! And she brought along supplies which we runners under the heat are needing for. Took 2 gulps of Cola before carrying on to the checkpoint and that's where Poh Chye and Jeff caught up. Spent a longer time here as the journey to the next checkpoint will be a torturous one as per advised by Yek Bun. It's going to BURN!

Thank you Kash for the support...

Applied sunscreen to almost every exposed skin and carried on. And yes, it was an open route with the sun blazing hot! It was the journey to the Punggol Waterway. Most runners were reduced to walking here, and by the time we hit the park, it was the sand dunes that welcomed us. It was just as hot but as the journey continued, I spotted a lady selling cold drinks by the side. Without any hesitation, I bought a bottle of isotonic drink and gulp it down. I was joined by many other which includes David Wong, a fellow Comrades runner too which I continued on with him sharing ideas on our passion of Comrades. We walked together as our tummies was filled with the drinks we gulped down instantly. We were too bloated to run. Hahaha...

We finally saw a red bridge in the distance. The checkpoint is near. But we were still walking till we are very near to the bridge cause there was a photographer there! Hahaha... We were welcomed by Steven and Uncle who is waiting for Bernard and Boon from the 100KM category. Checked in and other runners soon arrived too from Jeff to Sallehan. Kash was here too and again, I took Cola from her as the station ran out of ice to keep the beverage cold. I was also given an apple. Though my appetite wasn't there, I knew I had to eat and so did I. It was quite a long stop here but when I was ready, I departed with Sallehan.

The journey from CP5 to CP6 was horrendous! It was a giant 15KM loop which will bring us back to the same checkpoint. Both 5th and 6th is actually the same. But the problem with this loop is an open space concrete jungle. I was searching for a washroom to wet myself but to no avail. Myself and Sallehan was heating up badly. We walked together for about 7KM or so before I started running myself again. Then I took a long stop with Bryan who was resting shortly in front. Off we went together and soon, some trees greeted us.

At Buangkok Drive, where the Institute of Mental Health was. Perhaps I shall just check in here...

Nearly got lost but there's always Ben. Gave him a call at the crossing between Hougang Avenue 10 and Buangkok Drive. The directional marker board was there but the arrowhead was missing hence my story. A volunteer came by, and soon I was on track again. I needed the checkpoint badly as I felt something is going wrong with me. I pushed on and I could finally see the red bridge ahead. Sallehan overtook me to it as I could no longer run. I walked to it and was greeted by Yek Bun. Told him about my discomfort before I removed my race gear and went into sleep mode. My chest was tight and I was short of breath. I was blowing up. I rested and dozed off pretty instantly for about 15 minutes. A power nap indeed.

I felt better after waking up but I did some extra settings on my Polar heart rate monitor as I knew chest tightness is something I had to look into. I was supposed to meet up with Karen on my return trip here at midnight but the chances are really low and I did not want to hold her back. Hence I text her to carry on without me should I not arrive on time. Cooled myself down with some cold water and hydrated myself. Packed some ice into my hydration pack before continuing off with Sallehan into the darkness. It has been around 12 hours on the road for us already. I told him to carry on by himself as I did not want to slow him down. However, he soon detoured to the side and laid by the grass. He was experiencing dizziness and I accompanied him till a volunteer arrived and we radioed the medic for assistance before I carried on myself.

I felt better after walking for a bit. I began to jog a little and the rhythm began to showed again. Navigated some dark stretch before arriving at the town of Pasir Ris. I spotted a McDonalds across the street and I knew I had to eat despite my poor appetite. Bought myself a small fries and a large Cola before carrying on. I only managed half the pack of fries and I think I overdid it on the large Cola.

CP7 showed up shortly at 70KM and I was greeted by a close Facebook friend Zin whom I am meeting for the first time. It was really nice of her to show her support for the runners for dropping by at such a late hour. I really appreciate it. I had to leave though as I only had about 2 hours left to meet the cut off point at CP8 which is 80KM.

Blazing off from CP7 with a large Cola...

I continued on after being recharged a little and despite getting lost twice in the darkness, I managed to arrive at CP8 along Changi Beach with 30 minutes to spare and was greeted by Christopher who was volunteering here. Bryan arrived earlier and had already called it a day As for myself, as I pushed hard to arrive here before being cut off, my chest tightness returned and I started asking myself if this was it. I knew myself that sometimes, there is no such thing as third time lucky. Took a long break there and soon consulted the medic if I should continue on. Her reply as much as expected was to call it day. And from here, I consulted 3 of my friends over the phone, Chee Kong, Roy and Pui San. Although I knew it myself, I just had to hear it from someone. And after close to an hour of decision making, I finally threw in my towel. I told Christopher I am pulling out and he took note of it before Ben was informed. And so, I waited for my pick-up to be ferry back to MacRtichie Reservoir.

And in a blink of an eye, it was all over. My resume has now a DNF (Did Not Finish) status. I continued resting there and soon other Fred too arrive to support the runners. Adam 1Arm Runner and Carin arrived too though outside the cut off time. But as long Ben did not instruct anything, Christopher told them to continued on. Carin tried to ask me to tag along but I did not want to give her any problem should anything happens to me.

Kash then arrived shortly and she volunteered to drive me back to MacRitchie Reservoir. I accepted her kind gesture and was soon back there with Ben, Yee Hua, Phil and the other volunteers where I rested. I was getting better just like how it did earlier at CP6 but I just did not want to risk it to continue on with the run. I stayed to wait on for the arrival of other runners but more and more runners who came back in taxis appeared instead. Carin and Sallehan showed up, followed by Jamie, Hayden and then more and more 100 miles runners appeared. It was a a sad scene. Then, the first leading 100 miles runner appeared and this brought joy to the scene as he completed his epic run in just below 20 hours! What an inspiration and mood lifter!

The DNF club! :( With Sallehan and Carin

And so, my first official DNFand I have the honoured of giving it to Ben (*grin). Craze Ultra is certainly a tough nut to crack. The route was actually nice and not too tough. The issue was with the weather as it was blazing hot and probably my lack of rest. As life progresses, I will analyse myself on what went wrong and right now at the time of writing this, I can think of the following:

1) Pre run day events

2) Lack of sleep

3) Side effects from my treatment days

4) Lack of training

5) Stress at work

The overall statistics..

Although it's a bitter pill to swallow especially being my first time, I knew it's all over. Time to move on and learn from the experience to become stronger next. Sometimes, its good to gamble, but to gamble wisely we must. However, I really felt sad that I failed in my mission for CARIF. Though I know I tried my best and gave my everything, I still felt I let my donors down. I am truly SORRY to all.

The only positive thing is that I am still standing and moving on 2 legs and there is always another event to run at!

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who had played a part and cared for me through my entire journey and in no order, they are:

1) Ben, Yee Hua, Phil, Yek Bun and the rest of the oganising committee and volunteers from Running Guild for this truly crazy but amazing event.
2) Professor Teo, Datin Dr. Amy, CARIF and Simply Giving for the last minute job in helping me setup a fund raising cause for cancer research.
3) Kash for popping out of no where and showering everyone with her care, motivation and of course supplies of drinks and food. And also for the drive back to MacRitchie Reservoir.
4) Zin for taking time off to pay me a surprise motivational visit at CP7 during the night
5) The medic plus XiuFang and Christopher at CP8 for the care and advise given to me. And the call to throw in the towel by Chee Kong, Roy and Pui San. I just needed someone to decide for me.
6) To all runners I met along the way for the friendship and companionship throughout this ridiculous event!
7) Too all donors for my cause for the contribution.
8) And to everyone else who have message me along the way or even after the event for your care and concern.

Going Crazy, Almost...

By Frank

Next weekend, I will attempt my longest running distance ever at 100 miles or 161KM at the Craze Ultra 2012KM. The extra 1KM came from an unexpected over distance of 500M per loop at the u-turn point hence an increase. If you did not know, Craze Ultra is an event brought to you by the people who brought you Twilight Ultra Challenge (TUC), my good friend Ben Swee, Yee Hua and Phil Tan from Running Guild. I have been supporting his event since the very first TUC back in 2011 for it's an event by a team of passionate runners, and not to mention friends.

Preparation for it is almost none to zero. In fact, after returning from the Comrades Marathon some 2.5 months ago and after suffering at the KL Marathon, I took a long break from running. I was to start a month later but to no avail due to work fatigue.

Then came my initiative to rejoin the gym as Jatomi Fitness open its doors at my workplace. Therefore,  by the end of August 2012, I resume my training at full force following the Comrades program. The program up till now is still on the easy side but I did up my tempo a little. Nope, it's not because of Craze Ultra as I'm not banking too much on this event. To journey through the entire distance within 32 hours with fun and memories is what I am looking for. What I am looking now is to run a better Comrades in 2013 and this event will just be one of my trainings.

There is quite a lot of unfamiliar faces according to the name list, but it's this way new friends are made. However, I've very good friends too who will be running the various distance from my ultra runner cum customer friend Jagdeep, mummy power Karen and to the very inspirational Yim. Not all of us will be running the same distance, but I'm sure they will each be there to support each of us. However, I will be missing a fellow future Comrades runner who is still recovering from a recent health set back. But I'm glad he took the correct path in making sure he is 101% before returning.

So yeah. Craze Ultra 2012 will soon go crazy next week. Although I myself is crazy enough to challenge this distance especially with my physical condition now, my mind is still pretty sober about it. To get to the start line is one story, to keep moving is another and whether to complete it or not, will be the ultimate conclusion. But for me, I will tackle it wisely for another ultimate objective awaits in the near future.

p/s:

This will also be my first race that I will be wearing my first ever self made purple cancer awareness ribbon on my race attire. For those who are interested in getting one for themselves, it's priced at RM0.50 and proceeds will all go to CARIF which I am supporting. All you have to do is to contact me!

Going purple for a cause...

Terry Fox Run KL Is Back...

We are marking the 32nd anniversary of the Terry Fox Run this year on November 11th 2012, in Padang Merbok KL. A milestone unimaginable without the support of so many people, there is much to be done yet, we must always celebrate our victories - of which there have been many.

Terry Fox was 18 years old in 1977 when he was diagnosed with bone cancer. His right leg was amputated above the knee. Whilst in the hospital, Terry was so moved by the suffering of cancer patients, particularly children, that he resolved to run across Canada ( a distance of 8,500 kilometers) to raise money for cancer research. He called his journey the “Marathon of Hope”. Terry Fox, an amputee, ran a marathon (42 kilometers) a day for 143 consecutive days - a total distance of 5,373 kilometers. At that stage, Terry was forced to abandon his run as the cancer spread to his lungs. Terry Fox died a few months later at the age of 21. Before he died, he knew that a fund-raising event would be held each year, with the same objectives as the Marathon of Hope - to help find a cure for cancer.

Since 1981, the Terry Fox Run has raised more than 550 million Canadian dollars in aid of cancer research around the world. The Terry Fox Foundation requires that the funds raised be used for cancer research in the country where the Run is held.

The beneficiary this year will be the Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation (CARIF). CARIF is the first independent, non-profit cancer research organization in Malaysia.

The Run, which is a non-competitive family event, will be held on the 11th of November 2012. Funds will be raised principally by selling Terry Fox Run T-shirts and from cash donations.

The Organising committee comprises a team of un-paid volunteers, drawn from schools, colleges and corporations around KL. A number of the corporations have incorporated the Terry Fox Run within their Corporate Social Responsibility programs, and they provide the committee with specialist resources such as advertising, public relations and program management.

As the rules of the Terry Fox Foundation do not permit donated funds to be used to defray the cost of organizing the run, we are presently seeking corporations to donate in-kind facilities, services, amenities, and conveniences for the run.

We have included a list of the type of in-kind donations that we are seeking. We would also ask you to help us to publicize this family activity within your organization.

We are also organizing a charity auction to be held at the launch of the run to raise funds before the run. We hope that you would consider donating items which can be auctioned off at the launch.

Please give us a call at 03-56391874 or send an email to organizer@terryfoxrunkl.org if your organization is interested in supporting the Terry Fox run 2012. We will arrange for a member of our organizing committee to meet with you to provide further information about the event and also to discuss your organization’s participation in the Run.

Comrades Marathon 2013 Registration...

Prepare yourself (and your credit card) for it's the time of the year again, for the following year's edition. The Comrades Marathon 2013 registration will open in just about 1 day's time on 1 September 2012 at about 2PM local Malaysian time.

It will be my second attempt on the Ultimate Human Race and my first on the UP run. Here are some facts about the race and South Africa based on my 2012 experience:

01) 2012 race entry fee for me was RM604.00 (base on exchange rate)

02) UP run is from Durban to Pietermaritzburg covering 89.28KM (based on 2012 DOWN run official distance).

03) Don't be fool by the word UP as it is a mixture of multiple ascends and descends. There are 5 major hills to conquer.

04) My 2012 flight cost at about RM3,7XX on board Singapore Airline flying from Kuala Lumpur with 2 hours transit at Singapore before flying off to Johannesburg.

05) Spend a total about RM9,XXX for a 2 weeks race cum holiday in 2012 covering Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg, Durban, Mosselbay, Cape Alguhas and Cape Town (includes food, lodging, car rental, shopping, visiting and flying locally).

06) Weather is cool to very cold so bring multiple layers. Time zone is 6 hours behind Malaysia and Singapore time. Gardening gloves and the black garbage plastic bag is highly recommended.

So yeah. On 1 September 2012 which is just a matter of a day or maybe even less than that, registration opens for Comrades Marathon 2013. So log yourself into www.comrades.com and get yourself registered! And if you do just that, do contact me for a freebie. If you need any info, do get in touch with me and I will try to sort just about anything for you (minus asking me to sponsor of course).

Check out this personalised video by Chee Kong on our adventure at the 
Comrades Marathon 2012...

Official Launch of the Comrades Marathon 2013...

MEDIA RELEASE: Launch of 2013 Comrades Marathon

The official launch of the 2013 Ultimate Human Race echoed it’s awe-inspiring slogan – ‘U are ultraordinary!’ The exciting 88th Comrades Marathon campaign unveiling saw the nation’s top runners, sporting personalities and media converge on Johannesburg for this auspicious occasion on Wednesday, 29 August 2012.

In maintaining the accomplishments of this year’s phenomenal event, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) is all set for another magnificent showdown for next year’s race, come Sunday, 2 June 2013. Being an ‘up-run’, the start gun will fire off outside Durban’s City Hall at 05h30 and go off again 12 hours later at Pietermaritzburg’s Cricket Oval to signal the finish of the 86.9km road-running challenge.

Spring Day on 1 September 2012 brings with it the official opening of entries for the 2013 edition. The entry period closes on 30 November 2012 or as soon as the cap of 18000 entries has been reached. Prospective entrants are encouraged to get their entries in early so as to not be left disappointed.

The CMA has once again catered generously for its South African runners who will be eligible for the ‘early bird’ entry fee of R300 (the same cost as in 2012) if their entry is received by 30 September 2012. The new increased entry fee of R320 will kick in on 1 October 2012 until the entry process is closed. Runners from the Rest of Africa will be charged an entry fee of R500 and the cost to International athletes is $US180.

Other great news for runners is that the Substitution Rule, approved for implementation in 2012 by the CMA, is part and parcel of the 2013 Comrades entry process. This will apply for the month of April 2013 and more details may be found online at www.comrades.com 

The entry requirements, which are clearly indicated on the entry form, must be strictly complied with at all times or runners may risk losing their place at the Start.

Runners may enter as follows:

- online via the Comrades Marathon website: www.comrades.com;

- at Mr Price Sport, Home and Clothing stores countrywide;

- through the post by posting the completed entry form with proof of payment to the CMA Office in Pietermaritzburg: P.O. Box 100621, Scottsville, 3209;

- Comrades Marathon House: by handing in the completed entry form together with payment at the CMA office in Pietermaritzburg. 

- Please note that the CMA office will be open from 08h00 to 12h00 on the first day of the entry process – Saturday, 1 September 2012.

- Qualifying details must be submitted to the CMA by 6 May 2013.

Over the years, the CMA has prioritized charitable giving via its Amabeadibeadi charities platform. The driving force behind this is the desire to give back to the less fortunate in our country.

The 2012 Comrades Marathon was proof once again that the interest in improving the South African social and environmental landscape is a major priority for Comrades runners, sponsors and supporters in general.

A record amount of nearly R3.2million was generated in 2012 through a range of charitable fundraising initiatives by the CMA, its sponsors and the respective charities as opposed to R1.8million in 2011. Naturally, the CMA intends to build on this people-friendly platform in the run-up to the 2013 race.

Runners and supporters will once again be urged to embrace the spirit of being ultraordinary in the many ways that they know how; and to contribute to Amabeadibeadi and its Race4Charity Drive. After all, being ultraordinary goes hand in hand with what the Comrades Marathon epitomizes in terms of sharing, caring and promoting cooperation and goodwill.

Six worthy charities, namely Community Chest of Durban and Pietermaritzburg, Pink Drive, The Sports Trust, Starfish-Greathearts Foundation, Wildlands Conservation Trust and World Vision South Africa benefit from Amabeadibeadi’s fundraising initiatives.

The charities’ focus are on such issues as community development, care for the aged, health and wellness, AIDS care and support, the environment and sports development; and through the Amabeadibeadi Charity Drive, gain invaluable resources to bring the intended meaningful change to marginalized communities across South Africa.

Further to that, the CMA puts the humanity into The Ultimate Human Race by making the dreams of approximately 800 disadvantaged runners a reality every year. For over a decade, the Underprivileged Runners Programme has provided resources and moral support to these runners who would normally be unable to compete in the world’s biggest and oldest ultra-marathon and relish in the camaraderie and enjoyment associated with it.

CMA Chairman, Peter Proctor says: ‘We are very pleased and excited about our 2013 Comrades campaign. There is no doubt in our minds that every single Comrades runner is ultraordinary and lends a unique feature to South Africa’s most famous road-running race. It is these extra-special attributes of our runners that make The Ultimate Human Race all the more touching and a true people-centred event.’

Proctor adds, ‘The ever-growing accomplishments of Amabeadibeadi are a source of great pride and a huge sense of achievement for us all at the CMA. It is our determination that we utilize the Comrades brand to full measure and make a positive difference to the lives of those in need. We are grateful to our generous runners, sponsors, partners and supporters who contribute to these important endeavours and uphold the esteemed status of the Comrades Marathon. We greatly anticipate another amazing race in 2013!’

It is worth noting that the Comrades Marathon is a Guinness World Record (GWR) holder for having the most finishers in an ultra-marathon, as endorsed by GWR in 2010. The iconic race also enjoys its prestige as the current winner of the Virgin Active Sport Industry Awards for ‘Sport Participation Event of the Year’.

For more info, visit the official website of the Comrades Marathon by hitting this link.

Thank You Katrina...

Today, 28 August 2012 is both a sad and happy day for me. Katrina, the person whom I have worked closely with regards to my first ever charity fund raising project since December 2011 has worked her last day over at CARIF as it was the end of her contract. I'm sad because it's never easy to part ways with someone who is easy to work with, efficient and also getting along really well. However, I'm happy for her too as I believe she would have found a brighter career path for herself.

Katrina was introduce to me by Peter during Running Lab's official opening back in November 2011. And when the dust settled down from work that time, we together brainstorm on my charity fund raiser which will then turned out successfully under The Ultimate Race for Cancer Research (TURCR) where I ran the Comrades Marathon 2012 in aid to raise funds for cancer research for CARIF.

Katrina has been my liaising person since then till today. For those who joined TURCR Facebook site, beside myself, she was also the admin of the site. She co-handled the site with me while assisting me in other various stuff too from conveying messages, PR, marketing and discussions. She also took time off to see me off to South Africa.

Katrina's farewell lunch at Nando's Subang Parade with fellow CARIFians...

Katrina. I hope and am sure our paths will cross again one day. I THANK you very much for all the effort you put in while we co-work together. It has been a fruitful and memorable journey. Here's wishing you all the best in your career path and also yourself. Till then, do keep in touch. ;)

Cancer Survivor Running For Research...

A while ago, after completing the Comrades Marathon 2012 back in June, I was approached from a couple of newspaper journalist to have an interview done. One of them is Ms. Fiona from The Star which was recommended by Stupe. This interview was about my story; during and after my days of battling cancer and what I am doing now to give back. And so, the interview was done and finally it was published today, 27 August 2012, in The Star 2 segment. The following is the article:

Cancer survivor Frank Chong is on a marathon to raise funds for cancer research.

FRANK Chong was only 12 when he was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare form of cancer that affects the connective tissues and muscles. Now a familiar face in the local marathon circuit, the 33 year-old has turned the disease that once debilitated him into a catalyst to raise funds for cancer research.

In June, Chong completed a 90km run at the Comrades Marathon in South Africa in 11 hours 54 minutes, and raised RM14,000 for the Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation (CARIF), a local non-profit organisation for cancer research.

Chong, who is currently the operations manager of Running Lab Malaysia, shares his experience with cancer and his ongoing fight against the disease.

True survivor: in June, Frank Chong completed a 90km run at the Comrades Marathon in South Africa and raised RM14,000 for cancer research.

“I was a few months into Form 1 when I noticed a swelling on my left wrist. I thought it looked bigger than my right wrist and I asked my dad what was wrong,” recalls Chong, over a cup of coffee.

A trip to the family doctor was followed by a series of tests at a hospital. Chong had the lump removed and it was found to be cancerous.

Chong started his chemotherapy treatment in Singapore.

“My ambition was to become a doctor, so I knew some medical terms here and there. The word ‘rhabdomyosarcoma’ was alien to me. I did some research and realised that the treatment would be followed by hair loss and weakening.

“Then I thought: so be it and proceeded with the treatment. One thing about facing cancer is that you need to have a positive mindset and strong willpower. I understood what was going on and it made me more determined to get well,” Chong explains. For the next two years, the young Chong found himself in and out of hospital for his fortnightly chemotherapy sessions.

“I was put in a children’s ward. At 12, I was considered quite an ‘old’ rhabdo patient as it usually affects kids who are five or six years old,” says Chong. “My hair started to fall off after the first treatment and I had to shave it all off.”

The routine went on for six months before he underwent radiotherapy for a month. After that, he was put on a stronger dose of chemotherapy treatment.

“We lived in Johor Baru which is quite near the Causeway. My parents travelled in and out of Singapore to accompany me during my treatment,” says Chong who is the only child in the family. His mother quit her job at a quantity surveying firm to take care of him.

While his school had been supportive, his peers did not understand what he was going through.

“My school allowed me to wear caps and tried to raise funds for me (though his parents declined), but the kids made fun of me because I looked weird and different from everyone else.

“Only my close friends understood what I was going through.”

Eventually, going to school became a challenge for the boy as he felt the full effects of the chemotherapy sessions.

“I was in pain and felt so tired after each treatment that I just wanted to sleep all the time. I missed school a lot and tried to make up for it by studying on my own while I was in the hospital,” he says.

From across the coffee-table, Chong shows us a thin scar on his wrist where the lump had been. “The tumour was about the size of a marble,” he says.

Chong graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, a field he worked in for six years before he decided to pursue a career as a certified personal trainer.

Meanwhile, his passion for health and fitness prompted him to start training for marathons in 2007. “Initially, I did it to raise funds for the Terry Fox Run,” he explains. The Terry Fox Run is an annual non-competitive charity event held around the world in commemoration of Canadian cancer activist Terry Fox and his Marathon of Hope to raise funds for cancer research. (Fox himself was an athlete who had osteosarcoma, a form of cancer that often starts near the knees.) “Terry Fox is my inspiration to run,” Chong says.

The local marathoner also sold T-shirts to raise funds for the cause. Later, a fellow volunteer introduced him to Carif, the beneficiary of Terry Fox Malaysia. Chong has been lending his support to the organisation in its fight against cancer. In doing so, he became the organisation’s first “community champion” with his campaign, “The Ultimate Race for Cancer Research” at the Comrades Marathon.

On his triumph at the Comrades, the world’s largest and oldest ultra-marathon race, Chong discloses that he had trained hard for the event. “I work 12 hours a day, seven days a week, so I have to wake up really early to run, especially on weekends. Sometimes I wake up at 4am just to run,” says Chong, who is a bachelor.

“The Comrades is a very big event in South Africa, but I took my own sweet time to take in the scenery and I came in third from the bottom,” he recalls with a laugh.

To date, the avid marathoner has completed 11 ultra marathons of between 50km and 100km, as well as three Powerman Duathlon (which usually comprises 10km running, 60km biking and another 10km running).

“Being a cancer survivor serves as a reminder that there’s always someone out there who is suffering,” says Chong.

On his running career, a smiling Chong adds: “I’m not getting any younger, but I hope I’ll be able to do this for as long as I can.”

You can keep up with the marathoner on his website:runnerzcircle.blogspot.com

A note of thanks to CARIF (Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation), Sarah from Priority, Fiona and Stupe for arranging the above interview.

The full article can be seen by hitting this following LINK.