ASICS Skysensor Neo...

By Frank

The ASICS Skysensor Neo...

The ASICS Skysensor Neo isn't really a new model by ASICS, in fact it was releasd to the market mid year 2011. However I recently got it "deployed" out of the box and used it for my KL Marathon 2012. A Japanese spec racing flat that is highly popular in the land of the rising sun, this is one particular model that is pretty tough to find in our local retailers.

Lateral view of the Skysensor Neo...

Medial view of the Skysensor Neo...

The Skysensor Neo is a unisex model. As it's of Japanese specification, sizing will be a little tricky as I found out from many years back that it can be pretty inconsistent compared to the regular ASICS models. It will be good to personally try them out at the store itself before committing. Besides, since this is of a racing series, they tend to fit like a glove which I kind of like it since I have a narrow feet. As for those with wider feet say like 2E width, tough luck then. Weighing in at about 183 grams for size US8.5, the Skysensor Neo falls under the neutral racing flat category.

Front view of the SkySensor. Note the ventilation on the toebox area and also the narrow width....

The Skysensor Neo is a very low profile shoe, something which I've learn to like after years of running. Although looking minimal, this isn't a minimalist shoe as I measured around a 8mm differential in heel to toe drop. The midsole is built on top of ASICS 2 very popular material call Solyte, which offers lightweight and cushioning, and SpEVA which offers durability. I am not really a big fan of Solyte as I find that it offers too much cushioning. Most of you will have know that I prefer firmer compound shoes and therefore rather to have the midsole to be made fully of SpEVA as it offers pretty good durability (if comparing EVA rubbers) and also good bounce.

Upclose on the Solyte midsole...

However, as both Solyte and SpEVA are made of EVA rubber, durability is enhanced on the rear foot and forefoot areas using ASICS High Abrasion Rubber or more widely known as AHAR+. I can swear by this rubber compound as it is one of the key material that gives ASICS shoe excellent durability. And this is also the material that give the shoe a firmer outsole.

I did take note of a separate material on the the midsole over at the medial forefoot area. It kind of look and feel like a stability posting as the rubber compound is certainly firmer when pressed. However, I did not feelt any discomfort during my run with the shoe hence I can't comment much on it. Whether functional or part of cosmetic design, I leave it as of a mystery.

The greyish silver area of another rubber compound suspected to be a stability posting...

The shoe has nothing fancy to be shout about. Not much of technologies are used in building it as only a rear gel cushioning is used over at rear outsole. Coupled with ASICS Magic Ventilation which I don't think it's magical enough to offer better airflow through the shoe, and also WetGrip technology on the outsole's fore foot area to allow better traction, this is all that makes up the shoe. Speaking about the WetGrip, it actually worked pretty good as tested on the wet morning of the recent KL Marathon. Excellent traction on wet tarmac and decent enough on the smooth surfaces like those red inter-lockable brick surface. Otherwise, everything else that builds the shoe are just plain overlays meshes, synthetics and normal flat shoe laces.

A couple of drainage pots on the outsole. 

WetGrip is made possible with the tread design on the blue area of the forefoot...

Overall, I find the ASICS Skysensor Neo to be a pleasant pair. I'm not sure how will it compared to the pretty similar ASICS Hyperspeed series, but overall I just like the simplicity of it.

Many thanks to ASICS Malaysia and Ms. Kris Lee for giving me the opportunity to test out the ASICS SkySensor Neo.

The ASICS Skysensor Neo retails at RM469.00 and can be found at major ASICS stores and dealers nationwide.

A Message Of HOPE...

“To present the most precious as a message of HOPE to light the future road ahead” – Frank Chong, Comrades Marathon 2012 runner #57056

Earlier this noon, I “bid farewell” to my Comrades Marathon 2012 Vic Clapham copper medal. Don’t worry, I did not lose it. In fact, it has found a new "home", somewhere where it will serve as a message to the many out there. I donated it to CARIF for a simple yet powerful message of HOPE. 

A simple presentation ceremony was held at CARIF’s main lab at Sime Darby Medical Centre, with the medal encased in a beautiful frame with my finishing photo in it being presented to Professor Dr. Teo Soo Hwang, the Chief Executive Officer of CARIF. Staffs of CARIF and the media was there to witness it. The medal will currently be displayed at CARIF’s main research lab which will then move to Sime Darby Medical Centre's Cancer Centre in the near future.

Yes, the Comrades medal is small, around the size of a Malaysian 50 cents coin. But behind each of it tells a story, whether the medal or the person who attempted to run it. My story is:- I ran and completed it successfully as a survivor of the Rhabdomyosarcoma cancer.

The Comrades Marathon is certainly the toughest run I ever did and of course the medal is a token of achievement and something to be treasured of. However, as I ran the Comrades Marathon 2012 as part of a cause to raise awareness and funds for cancer research in aid of CARIF, and if this small little medal can deliver a powerful message to the many people out there whether those affected with cancer or not, I will be glad to “share” with them. And by “sharing”, I bear the message saying that what a normal person can do, a cancer survivor can do too, if not sometimes even better.

"HOPE LIVES HERE" in CARIF, a tagline that came about for their recent 10^th anniversary celebration. However, much support is still needed to bring the fight against cancer to another level. I’m uniting my passion of running and a role as a cancer survivor in doing a part for this, and I hope it will be a small step towards many brighter things to come. Support  CARIF, support cancer research.

My South Africa Adventure...

By Frank

As mentioned in my Comrades Marathon 2012 race report, here I am talking about my South African adventure. As most of you will have known, I was on a road trip along the South Western Cape after completing my Ultimate Human Race. It certainly was a holiday trip not to be forgotten and I really felt sore that it actually ended so quickly. Anyway, here is what happened in a summary of course. Hope this entry doesn't bore you down.

29 May 2012

A small gesture by Katrina from CARIF and some of my running mates to see me off at Coffee Bean, KL Sentral in the late afternoon before I caught the express train to the airport. Upon disembarking from the train, met up with Wong and we proceeded for the check-in before having an early dinner at Secret Recipe. Flew to Singapore and had a 3 hours lay off there before resuming flight to Johannesburg at 2am.

Seeing off and the journey to South Africa...

30 May 2012

Had all 3 seats to the window by myself but could't sleep throughout the entire journey. Met with a South African who is flying home from Melbourne name Andrew who is doing the Comrades Marathon for his second time.

Flight was about 10.5 hours long and finally, we landed safely at O.R. Tambo International Airport at Johannesburg at around 7.00am in the morning, South Africa time. Airport was huge and immigration process was really smooth. A beagle was called into action to sniff on Wong's bag probably due to the dried meat he brought over for Chee Kong.

Arrival at Johannesburg, South Africa...

Chee Kong and Mei-Ee arrived shorty to pick us up and was soon welcomed by the friendly South African culture by 2 locals. Upon our drive back to Chee Kong's house, we soon experience the rush hour.

Rested for a while in Chee Kong's house before departing to visit the Rhino and Lion Park some 30KM aways. Mei-Ee was too tired to follow though. I had fun at this park simply because I like to see animals. Spent a pretty long day here before going back to pick up Mei-Ee for her new car awaits.

Rhino and Lion Park...

A short run in the evening and for the first time, I struggled on a short 6KM run. Despite being sleepy, it was the altitude and dry air. But this run was needed to be run to acclimatise myself.

Car collection, evening run and dinner...

Dinner was nearby at a Brazilian churasuria restaurant with some fellow Malaysian friends working in South Africa being Peter, Seah and Shu Lin. Didn't really enjoy the dinner though was I was bonking out. It has been hours since I last slept.

31 May 2012

A visit to poorer side of Johannesburg at Soweto. A historical side where Nelson Mandela's use to live at, and also the memorial for Hector Peterson.

The Hector Peterson Memorial...

Soweto...

From Soweto, we continued on to the Apartheid Museum. A lot of the South Africa history is being shown here, and one can actually stay up to hours to actually study through everything. Well, I personally just zoom pass. And before leaving, we had quite a lousy lunch at the cafe there.

The Apartheid Museum...

Shopping mall or Chinatown? I opt for the latter instead although being told that it is nothing spectacular. But its a must visit if you ask me as we are Chinese after all. Indeed nothing to shout about, as it was just a short street.

We returned back home later as Chee Kong had an appointment with his Fourway Running Club runners for a time trial session. All of them ran but I did not despite just being a short one. Dinner was pizza bought from a local eatery and after that, I bonk out again early, still feeling tired.

01 June 2012

The 600KM plus long drive to Durban and the free way has nothing to see except for animals and plenty of mountains. But still, amazing view. Halfway through, we stopped by the small town of Harrismith for some very English breakfast I had pancake with savoury mince and it was simply delicious. Bought some ginger cookies too and they simply taste awesome too.

En route Durban stopping by Harrismith...

Continuing with our journey, we soon arrived at he legendary town of Pietermaritzburg, and soon found the original first starting line of the very first Comrades Marathon back in 1921. We then proceeded to the Comrades Marathon House was simply blown away by the exhibition there! The stories, legendary runners and the medals and trophies were all shown here.

The Comrades Marathon House...

We drove along the race route and even paid an early visit to the Wall of Honor. And from there, we drove till Botha's Hill before turning off on to the free way as it was getting late. Arriving at Durban, it was straight to the Race Expo at the convention centre. It was huge but we did not start our shopping today. We just collected our race pack and met up with some friends. I met up with Kelly from Singapore to pass her some stuff and off we went to check into our hotel by the seaside, Belaire Suites.

Pietermaritzburg and the Wall of Honour...

Dinner later was with some other Comrades runners at a pasta restaurant call Spiga. New friends like Karsten, Caroline and Susan were made. Didn't really enjoy the dinner though as the taste wasn't impressive. But probably I was cold and tired too.

02 June 2012

Woke up rather early and just roll around on the bed before going down to the cafe for breakfast. Pretty good breakfast I will say before we all proceeded to the Youth Run just around the corner. Mei-Ee was taking part in this 10KM run and I witness the strong African runners in action. Indeed an eye opener for me. Wrong shoes, torn shoes or even no shoes at all, they can really run!

10KM Youth Run...

Mei-Ee completing her Youth Run...

After cleaning up, its back to the expo for some shopping. Things were really expensive compared to Malaysia but at times like this, I just have to buy some of them as they served as important mementos for the run. Spent quite a long day here before going back.

Comrades Marathon race expo...

And in the evening, a quick visit to the seaside to catch the lighthouse before dinner at Ocean's Basket. Good dinner but race mood is kicking in. And after dinner, its back to the hotel and its rest for the big run awaits!

03 June 2012

Comrades Marathon 2012 race day.

04 June 2012

A long drive back from Durban to Johannesburg. Stopping by halfway along the freeway at Harrismith for lunch at Nando's, we spotted lots of Comrades runners clad in the official yellow tee limping around. As I was limping around too, we all smile and even joked at each other. Even the store manager and waiter and waitresses at Nando's saluted each of us for participating in the run.

Upon reaching Johannesburg, we proceeded to the nearby supermarket to buy some food for braai (barbeque) later back at home as part of our celebration together with our Malaysian friends Peter, Seah and Shu Lin.

05 June 2012

An early climb out of bed to catch a flight to George, we also going to miss Wong as he will be leaving back home to Malaysia on this same day. The flight to George was on board Kulula, and I was quite surprised at how good it was compared to our local low budget airlines. The only complain was the super hard landing at George some close to 2 hours later.

Upon arrival at the small airport, we soon got our rented car, the Nissan X-Trail Gear. Pretty comfy car and we soon zoomed off into the mountain enjoying the scenery while on the way to ostrich town, Oudtsshoorn. Upon arrival at the Safari, we had lunch there and I had a SUPERBLY DELICIOUS ostrich kebab.

Ostrich Safari at Oudtsshoorn...

And at the stroke of noon, we began our tour with a short video presentation before heading out to the farm. The ostriches were huge but they do look stupid. And once the tour of the farm is done, it came the moment of true where I was suppose to ride an ostrich. Sucky the ostrich was chosen to be my ride. With my legs still sore after the Comrades Marathon, I can't really cross my legs below the belly properly. And before I can sit properly on it, off came the face mask and off he went. After 2 small loops around, I fell off the big bird! I wasn't injured except for some scratches on my arm and was just glad that his big feet did not stamp on me! However, it was still an experience.

And before leaving the safari, we then proceeded to witness ostrich racing with "Jenson Button" taking on "Fernando Alonso". It was rather an amusing race where Jenson won!

It was all the way to Mosselbay later and we finally arrived at our hostel, the Santos Express Train. A very unique hostel in the shape of a decommissioned train by the beach, we spent most of our time at the cafe while enjoying the sea breeze and also the flight of seagulls before calling it a day after a long drive.

Mosselbay...

06 June 2012

It was a terrible morning to start with. As the hot shower facilities at the Santos Express Train is run on geysers, the high possibility of the fire being blown off by the strong wind is there. And this is what exactly happened to me during shower. The water just turn ice cold!

After a very nice breakfast, we continued our road trip journey to the southern most tip of South Africa, Cape Alguhas. Taking a break halfway at Albertinia, we visited a local wine shop there. The lady owner was super friendly and even asked for our autographs as myself and Chee Kong ran the Comrades Marathon. We eventually wrote or wishes in her log book. And next to the wine shop was this stall selling roosterkoek, some sort of sandwich which was very TASTY! 

We soon arrived at Cape Alguhas Backpackers Inn. 2 very friendly dogs being Milo and Coco welcomed us as we checked into our respective chalets. It certainly was comfy looking and most important, it came with powered showered facilities! After checking in, we checked out the beautiful beach hoping to see some stingrays but failed to do so.

Cape Alguhas...

Then it was to Cape Alguhas, where the 2 oceans Indian and Atlantic meets. It was simply magnificent and I think I can actually stay at this small town. Just love the peaceful environment here. 

A short stop at the local supermarket to buy some food for dinner before returning back to the hostel to clean ourselves up. But dinner did not turn out to be as the food we bought was too little and by the time Chee Kong found out, the supermarket is already close at 7pm. Therefore, we had dinner at a small restaurant where my dinner turned out to be pork knuckle without realising it!

Further up from Cape Alguhas was the ship wreck. Sunset taken back at hostel...

Back at the hostel, it was some hanging out at the bar area while updating and updating photos on to our Facebook with Chee Kong. It was a chilly night but I was glad that the room has a heater and I quickly called it a night

07 June 2012

I simply adore this small town that I decided to go out for a short morning run with Chee Kong. Very cold morning with reasonably strong wind, I was struggling with every steps as my legs is still painful from my big run. After hitting 3KM, I asked Chee Kong to go ahead while I ran walk while taking videos and photos of the nice waves. And back at the hostel, I had trouble opening my room's door as my fingers were too cold to actually turn the door knot. Waited for Chee kong to return before I managed to enter.

Yesterday;s dinner became our breakfast this morning and thanks to Mei-Ee for preparing it. We left this fabulous town on route to Cape Town. It started pouring soon and the wind was so strong that the car was shaking.

We stopped by at Hermanus, the place known the best to spot whales. We had an early lunch at a cafe by the seaside and sat for quite a while hoping that the whales will appear. Sadly, none came. But at least lunch was good and service was super friendly. This small but yet modern town is also very nice to live in too. Perhaps another visit next year.

Hermanus...

Continued our journey to Cape Town and it rained the entire journey. And when we finally got there, we checked in to the Green Elephant Backpackers. Kind of run down and my room themed Dolphin is actually pretty scary with a huge painting of a mermaid on the wall! I slept with the washroom lights on for the next 2 nights!

We then finally met our Singaporean Phil who is actually staying very nearby. We all drove to Hout Bay for the Old Fisherman's Trail Challenge race pack collection and briefing. Nothing much there and after all is done, we ended up at a small cosy Thailand restaurant for dinner after avoiding being "cut throat" at some rather expensive seafood restaurant by the wharf. This is the start of our oriental dinner now after having meat and seafood the previous days. And the quality of the food here is actually very good too.

Then it was back to the hostel for some photo uploading again before calling it a night.

08 June 2012

Probably one the most beautiful drive around South Africa along the coastal roads of Cape Town. Picked up Phil and while just exiting the town, I spotted some fins out of the water, There were dolphins! Out of excitement, Chee Kong drove our vehicle up the curb to park along the road and we got down the car to have some photo shoots. Despite being far from us, it was still a very good experience to see a school of them.

Simon Town...

We then ended up at Simon's Town, the town where Able Seaman Just Nuisance lived and served the Navy. He is actually a dog, a Great Dane in fact. We had breakfast at yet another cosy seafood restaurant call Salty Dog which is absolutely fantastic. And after a satisfying breakfast, we carried on to Boulder National Park to witness penguins. Cute birds, it was rather amusing see them walk as we do walk like them now after running the Comrades Marathon.

Penguins of Boulder National Park...

Next stop was the big one within Table Mountain National Park visiting Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope, the western most tip of South Africa. The weather played a fool with myself and Phil every time we wanted to walk up to the light house at Cape Point. Every time we spotted the rainbow which means rain halfway walking up, we turned back. And after 2 efforts, we decided to take the cable car instead. However, the view at the top was simply beautiful. Back at the bottom, while opening the car door, my pizza lunch after flew off my hand and onto the car's mat. Imagine how strong the wind is? Cape of Good Hope was just along the sea. Witnessing strong waves, I still prefer Cape Alguhas.

At Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope...

Next was a coastal drive up to Chapman's Peak cruising along the running route for the Two Oceans Marathon. Spectacular view indeed. We then returned to Hout Bay and stopped by the fisherman's wharf to witness some really fat seals. Then it was snack time before continuing our journey to Signal Hill hoping to catch a glimpse of Table Mountain. It was really cold there and it rained. I hid in the car with Mei-Ee while Chee Kong and Phil went out adventuring in the cold. And thankfully, the cloud manage to stir away and we caught the glorious view of Table Mountain. And from there, we proceeded to a shopping mall by the seaside to check it out before returning to the hostel to clean ourselves up. Everyone was beat to the max.

Dinner was Chinese this time as Phil recommended a pretty good restaurant owned by mainland Chinese. It was probably so good that Phil ate 5 bowls of rice!

An early night after dinner as it was race day again the next morning.

09 June 2012

Race day for the Old Fisherman's Trail Challenge 2012.

After completing the race, together with Phil, we returned to the China Mainland Restaurant for dim sum buffet which was actually pretty good. Had a good meal there before we proceeded to Rhodes Memorial not too far away. Just a short visit there before we bid farewell to Phil and then returned back to the hostel as Chee Kong needed to pack up for his flight tonight to the Texas. And in a rush, he though he has lost his newly bought mobile phone to the hostel's cleaner which then Mei-Ee lodge a complain the next day (phone was found in Chee Koon'g luggage when he arrived at Texas).

Rhoedes Memorial...

We then proceeded to the airport in the evening. It was my first time to Cape Town International Airport. huge and spacious but kind of quiet. A simple dinner at Ocean Basket before we say goodbye to Chee Kong. I then proceeded for some light shopping and finally bought a few Vuvuzelas before going back to the hostel to rest.

10 June 2012

A really tough day as this will be the day that I will bid farewell to South Africa after having so much fun. Flight was at 11.35am with Mei-Ee's flight to Johannesburg a few minutes later. As we are earlier, we had an easy breakfast at Wimpy before bidding farewell to each other.

I was on the flight to Johannessburg and it was pretty empty. After laying off for about an hour there, more passengers boarded the plane and it soon filled up. As I only had the middle seat empty this time, I could't get myself to sleep hence I started drafting out my Comrades Marathon event report till the battery of my notebook went flat. And after 12 hours of flying, I finally landed at Changi Airport and quickly transited for my next flight back to Kuala Lumpur an hour later.

Upon retrieving my main luggage back at Kuala Lumpur, I realised that it was wet. Immediately I know that my wine bottle broke and I just can't wait to get back home hoping all my important stuff especially those from Comrades Marathon are not soaked. And once everything was unpacked, it was back to reality where I went back to work. 

Till my next South Africa adventure...

Good things always come to an end fast without realising when we are having fun. And I would like to take this opportunity to THANK my very good friend Chee Kong and Mei-Ee for their excellent planning and hospitality. And to those friends that I met along my trip, it was really great to have met all of you. I'm really awed by the awesome friendliness of your country. Till my next South African trip and I can't wait for it!

Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur Marathon 2012...

Event: Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur Marathon 2012

Venue: Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur

Date: 24 June 2012

Time: 4.30am

Distance: 42.195KM

Shoe: Asics Skysensor Neo

By Frank

Woke up or shall I rather say flip up from the bed with zero hours of sleep at midnight and sat there thinking on whether shall I run this race. Recovering from cough and also migraine, I was feeling moody. Laid back on bed only to officially step out of it half an hour later telling myself that "Yeah, I will go for it to just try to finish it".

With mum not around, the kitchen wasn't stock up on food hence I only managed to find a single pack of instant noodles for my breakfast with a cup of warm water. Didn't go with my usual coffee or hot chocolate due to migraine.

And after all the necessary preparation which I initially thought so, forgetting my sunglasses, I arrived at Dataran Merdeka at 2am only to find major roads closed to traffic. And I though I was early, the place was already almost fully packed with car parking lots taken up. After 30 minutes of rounding around, I finally found a parking lot just behind the court house which charges a ridiculous RM5 per hour! I thought so that will be the rate on working days since they person taking care of that place weren't there yet. I started calculating though as I only RM60 with me at that time which should be more than enough. (I was charged RM15 later).

With the race still a couple of hours away at 4.30am, I loitered around meeting up with some friends. Fast forwarding to it, I started together with Eugene at the rear. The start was just all right with the start signal no where to be heard. Started ok but the pain on my left knee starts creeping in at one kilometre later. Yeap, the damage from the Comrades Marathon can still be felt, and it got even more painful with every stride taken. All I can do is just to bear with it as much and as long as I could.

And it was quite a busy start for me acknowledging wishes, shaking hands of runners, friends, customers and those who recognised me from the recent newspaper article that was related to The Ultimate Race for Cancer Research on my Comrades Marathon accomplishment. This really came as a shock to me as there were just so many of you. Was really embarrassed but really THANK YOU all for it!

The pain got really bad and I was slowing down just past Sungai Besi highway entering back into KL City. Eugene and Roy came along but I just couldn't hang on to them. And halfway into Jalan Loke Yew, I had to stop to stretch. But came along a motivator, Mohan. He told me this. "Frank, you just did the Comrades. Think of that and don't run this race like the usual Frank. Just run and enjoy it. Remember, you just did the Comrades". This was a wake up call for me and certainly something that spurred me on.

I continued on limping, walking and running with more people coming alongside to congratulate me on Comrades. My hands are just as busy as my legs. Hahaha... Alvin was kind enough to walk together with me and I had a good quality short chat with him as we both chatted about beautiful South Africa. Michelle also later came by to offer me some muscle spray. However, it was my joint that was hurting and I don't use this kinds of spray. Nevertheless, thank you Michelle for your kind thoughts.

Running pass Jalan Tun Razak, the Golden Triangle district, KL Tower, Jalan P Ramlee and fast forwarding back into Jalan Tun Razak, I soon spotted Sky from Singapore helping out a runner laying on the floor stretching his leg. I too stopped to help him out, at least to fan both of them using Sky's very traditional Chinese fan! And then, we continued together.

Into Jalan Ipoh, I suddenly miss Chee Kong's company. 2 years back, we were both limping around here when he was still a novice marathon runner. Look at how much he improved now! My right legs too wasn't in good condition now. With both legs screaming, came along another ultra marathon buddy, Yip. He was on his bike cruising along. He disembark and we both walked and chatted together. Again, a company that I greatly treasured. I needed that walk!

I needed to run a little for I needed to complete this run within the 6 hours cut off time. The buffer is slowly disappearing and the alarm rang when I spotted the 6 hours pacer balloons of Uncle Sonny, Irwan, Alexis and Yen Erl. They are coming in real fast and with both my legs now hurting together with both my adductor muscles screaming along, I ran trying to widen my gap with them as I believe in their pacing skills. And while doing so, I tried to encourage and drag along some other runners who were struggling. "I told them, we need to run. They are coming. Its time to start to believe in yourself that you can do this"! Trust me, the word "BELIEVE" is a very strong word!

No matter how I ran, walked or limped, the balloons got closer and eventually got to me. This is where I tried to hang on to them dearly. Whenever one of them came beside me, I started running to create a gap  before slowing down again.

Into Bukit Tungku and then Kenny Hills, Uncle Sonny and Irwan started to pick up pace. And my legs wasn't feeling really good here as it was a downhill, I lost them. However, both Alexis and Yen Erl was still behind and I knew the chances was still there. 

Run run run. Almost there...

Photo courtesy of Khoo Yit Kiat

While entering KL City with just 1.5KM to go, Alexis came beside me for some encouragement. I told her my legs were really painful but the show must go on. Time was on our side we have enough of it to walk till the finish. But we didn't and we ran. Faster and faster I ran and soon arrived at the finish funnel to the finish. I stop and all eyes were on me. I told those line up by the side, I owed my success to the pacers and I will finish it with them. The squad of balloons soon formed into a single line as they slowly near me. And when they did, I resume my run again and soon, we all did it together and cross the finish line with a time of 5:51:52!

It was one heck of a painful run and I'm just glad to have actually completed it. Though I did thought of not showing up at all, but once I started the run, all it takes is just an effort to finish it, and that is the main task. Thanks to everyone in the 6  hour pacer group for a job well done and off I went to collect my finisher's medal. Not very well organised, the organisers actually ran short or misplace the full marathon finisher's medal. And when I got mine, there were actually 2 of them in my bag. I returned one quickly to them hoping that there will be one less argument there.

Overall, the event was managed pretty well among Malaysian standard. It's still a long way to go when I now  only have the Comrades Marathon as a benchmark as the best ever event among all I've participated. The lonely and lifeless streets of KL City and the lack of motivational support which also includes from the volunteers themselves is something Malaysian event organisers need to look at to brighten our local events. But one thing I'm really happy to see was the implementation of the stack system for hydration at the water stations. I believe Wan Yew Leong  from Runners Malaysia was the brainchild of this and I'm really happy to say that his idea has finally been accepted and it worked so well!

The finisher's medal...

And so, with the completion of this run, I guess my legs deserve a well deserved rest. Comrades Marathon certainly showed how much it can "damage" the legs and how long does it take to recover. With the Comrades Marathon 2013 training starting in no time, my first stage is to love my legs now! Absolutely no running for now till 3 weeks time. Till then, see you...

Celebrating CARIF's 10th Anniversary...

By Frank

Yesterday (21 June 2012), CARIF or Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation celebrated their 10th anniversary at Sime Darby Convention Centre with a gala dinner. It was certainly a dinner of a different kind for me. It was posh and everyone came in suits, dress and evening gowns. And with a simple but yet powerful tagline for the evening, "Hope Lives Here", it shows that cancer can actually be beaten and we celebrate that this evening.

An evening of celebration...

So very true...

6 years ago, I bought a set of suit in conjunction with Danny's wedding back then. And that was the only time that I actually wore that set which includes the leather shoe as well. And so when I knew of the dress code for the gala dinner, my worry was, will I still be able to it into the suit? Luckily I was able to and the sole of the leather shoe did not come off. Phew...

And so, I arrived really early hanging out just outside the Grand Ballroom before meeting up with some friends of CARIF. Soon, more and more people arrived and so did the 4 people from CARIF that I work closely with being Professor Teo, Sook Yee, Katrina and Peter. Katrina and Peter both introduced me to many people, some of them being well known doctors, surgeons, deans and scientists.  It was certainly nice and fruitful to have exchange conversations with them. At some times, I was embarrassed myself too as many knew who I was and I actually do not know them!

The reception and art exhibition...

And there were also an art exhibition and also auction where paintings inspired by our human body, anatomy and cancer research is being painted out. I really like one of the paintings but just couldn't afford it. Therefore, I bought a 2013 calendar which has the pictures of the paintings on it. Besides, I also bought some merchandise which is for a good cause as all proceeds will go towards cancer research.

The painting which I really like...

In the grand ballroom, there was a presentation being played on on 2 gigantic screens. It showcases the history and achievements by CARIF. And out of a sudden, I saw my Comrades Marathon finishing photo! Was pretty shocked to actually see it there and at that time, I hope no one notice me standing at one corner.

We were all then ushered into the ballroom to our table to await for the VIP guest arrival's which was YAB Tun Dr. Mahathir and Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah. A short speech by the founder and trustee of CARIF, YM Tungku Ahmad Yahaya and dinner was served along with some on stage performance. By the way, I was seated together with Katrina, Peter and Benny.

Dinner is served...

Something fishy I found out...

Dinner was actually very good with the first 2 dishes being prawn and salmon. Soon, it was Professor Teo's turn for her speech which was just inspirational. Her speech was really creative and powerful. Then came YAB Tun Dr. Mahathir's turn after a short presentation. As many will have known, he did not need to prepare a script for what he is going to say and that what just what he did. And he delivered his speech so well that it was entertaining at the same time. All of us laugh!

Tun Dr. Mahathir giving his speech...

Time passes by and dessert coming in the form of a chocolate cake served with either tea or coffee is served. I could not resist the temptation of having something chocolaty despite still experiencing migraine hence in went the cake while enjoying performance by renown pianist Bobby Chen.

And with the end of the performance, comes and end to the dinner as well. We all proceeded out to the reception hall for some catching up. I loitered around for a while trying to catch Professor Teo. She was one busy lady but in the end, I managed to. And at the end of everything, it was already close to midnight.

With CARIF's very important CEO, Professor Teo...

It was certainly a unique evening not to be forgotten. Truly a first experience of this kind for me and also meeting our former Prime Minister in person. Totally enjoyed myself and certainly learnt so much more, I would like to sincerely THANK to Professor Teo and everyone and CARIF for inviting me to this celebration of hope.

And if you would like to know more about CARIF or even what can you do to help out in cancer research, do visit www.carif.com.my. Of course you can always pop a message to myself too and I will be happy to share with you what I know.

My charity haul for the night...

Old Fisherman's Trail Challenge 2012...

Event: Old Fisherman's Trail Challenge 2012

Venue: Fish Hoek, Cape Town, South Africa

Date: 9 June 2012

Time: 8.00am (South Africa time) / 2.00pm (Malaysia time)

Distance: 20KM (20.78KM by Polar RCX5 G5 GPS)

Shoe: ASICS Gel-Fuji Racer

By Frank

Treated as a recovery run after being tempted by Chee Kong to participate in this race and just can't resist the beautiful scenery as shown on the website, I opt to enter myself in the Old Fisherman's Trail Challenge despite knowing my legs won't be in good shape after Comrades Marathon. And a race that is usually sold out in a matter of a day or two with only 300 total runners cap, I doubt the quality can go wrong especially when we are talking about a South Africa event. Like the Comrades Marathon, the direction is alternate each year and for this year, it's actually an "Up" run. However, it will begin to descend to Hoek Bay beginning at about 14KM till the finish.

And so a week after the Comrades Marathon 2012, it was a near no show for me at the Old Fisherman's Trail Challenge as I awoke 5 hours before the race start with a bad migraine. After 3 years since it last struck me, it decided to return at this time. Just dumb luck I guess. Trying to shake off the pain, I fell asleep again only to wake up 15 minutes before we are suppose to leave for the starting venue at Fish Hoek Beach Sailing Club. Did almost nothing except for my toilet rituals and off I proceeded to the starting venue with Chee Kong, with Mei-Ee driving us there.

With Chee Kong before the start...

Teeth was not brush, hair in a mess and still smelling of yesterday (hope it wasn't that bad), we arrived safely after about half an hour's drive. First thing first was to have our equipment check. And they were strict. Race passport, water proof ponchos, space blanket, first aid kit and hydration are essential equipments. Less one item, and we are not allowed to enter. I personally think that this should be the way to enforce race entry, as part of the welfare for the runners themselves.

The starting venue at Fish Hoek Beach Sailing Club...

And after all the necessary, it was loitering around the club while waiting for the official start time at 8.00am just at the beach. The race start was a simple one and soon after, I was the last runner trying to catch up with the others. The beach is not an easy place to run with the loose sand sinking in. And with my legs hurting almost immediately, I was moving really slow trying to hang on to the runner ahead of me. The run along the beach was nice actually and runners were laughing away when the waves came close. It was about slightly under a kilometre long before we hit the road and this made my legs condition even more painful. Easier to run on but more painful and I can't wait to enter the trails.

It's the start of the ascend slowly and I could see runners stopping by to readjust their gear. And finally, the entrance to the trails via some steps before the rocky muddy terrain welcomed us. The pain on my left legs started to ease and when I look back from where I started, I was just simply amazed by the scenery. But then, I spotted a beautiful rainbow shining upon Table Mountain and I know the rain is coming! And so did the photographer agreed on and I ran!

The first half of the race...

The rain eventually came and went, just a slight drizzle but I am glad I had Chee Kong's water resistant jacket on. Kept me warm and dry. Arriving at PC1, I met with the Visser family which is made up of Gerard, Louise and their daughter Nicole. It was great to run alongside them and having to chat together exchanging the cultures of our countries. And along the way, we also met some of the mountain rangers together with the Labrador Retrievers. One of the rangers named Clint was 87 years old!

We ran through lots and lots of different terrains such as rocky, muddy, wooden planks, rooted tree branches, crossing of free ways and streams while passing by the PC2 and PC3 checkpoints. As we arrived at the halfway point mark near the Silvermine National Park at about 12KM into the race, all 4 of us were informed by the marshall there that we did not make the cut off time of 2 hours missing it by slightly more than a minute. But the some what good news is that he wasn't the one to make the decisions as the final decision lies with Claire, the event organiser. Well, sad to know but it did not dampen our race. Yes, it did not, and we continued on! That's the spirit!

The halfway point...

Continued on into our next path call Elephant Eye which overlooks Silvermine Dam. Again beautiful scenery and we finally arrived at PC4, the final checkpoint at 14KM. This is the highest point located at Blackburn Ravine. And from here, we can see the finish venue of Hout Bay some 6KM away, DOWNWARDS! The terrain here is simply rocky and yet slippery and its a single lane trail going down. At the immediate start of the descend, being my clumsy self, I knock my left knee on the wall resulting in a blue black immediately. OUCH!

Professional shot of me descending from Blackburn Ravine...

I was really slow and clumsy going down and at times, I actually went down on my bum to actually climb down. And its here, we were joined by Stephan. I was leading the pack and I hope I am not slowing them down. And it was a run till a waterfall where I stop and thought that we ran into a dead end. But Gerard was convinced the path was correct and off he went down through the waterfall. We all followed and it was definitely slippery with loose rocks all over. Shoes was soaking wet here!

The mountain route towards Hout Bay...

Soon, the normal trails were back and the Visser family slowly broke away. Stephan started to slow down probably due to sore legs. I tag alongside him. And when were back to some rather flatter terrain, we began to run and soon into some bushes and finally the road. It was the end of the trails and we both knew that the finish line is near. We can see the Visser family making themselves on to the beach and I really wished at that time that all 5 of us were together.

When myself and Stephan finally got onto the beach, the first thing that I was glad that the sand here was of the "solid" kind and it did not move around loosely unlike those at the start. A Labrador Retriever who was retrieving his frisbee thrown by his owner quickly greeted me. There were a few other dogs at the beach and it was nice to see them play around. One final obstacle was a rather wide rapid stream that was flowing into the ocean. We both stop and while Stephan took off his shoes, I was like thinking, "Let's Do It!" and I dashed across into the icy cold water. Both my shoes was soaked to the max and my toes were numb form the coldness. But it was a fun and unique experience but I can't say the same for my shoe.

Running towards the finish...

Chee Kong who completed his race much earlier was across the stream to greet myself and Stephan. And he ran together with us before detouring off at the finish line. The finish line at Hout Bay was a low key one and upon arriving, we quickly have our passports scanned to ensure we make he cut-off time which we gladly did in 03:57:09 third and fourth from the bottom! We were greeted by the Visser family and all 5 of us took a photo together for a really sweet memento before I left with Chee Kong and Mei-Ee as we had a dim sum appointment with Phil for lunch!

Congratulating Stephan for a run ran well...

With Gerard, Nicole, Louise and Stephan whom I spent most of the time with during the run...

Chee Kong and myself with our fishy souvenir...

I'm glad I turned up for this run despite waking up wonky due to migraine. And despite coming in third from the bottom, I was glad to have made new friends along the way and enjoyed the scenery together with them. This is probably the "true" trail run I experience thus far. The terrain and the running surface truly made it stand out from the others I've participated. And the scenery was one to be enjoyed truly! Simply BEAUTIFUL!

The unique wooden fish finisher's souvenir...

Before closing off this entry, I would like to thank Ms. Kris Lee from Giga Sports Sdn Bhd and Asics Malaysia for sponsoring the pair of Asics Gel-Fuji Racer for this race as it work remarkably well on the very technical course of the Old Fisherman's Trail Challenge. It kept me away from rolling down Table Mountain. ;p

And also thanks to Mei-Ee for lending me her Nathan Endurance hydration backpack as it helped saved some of my luggage space.