Effectively, I have 25 days to get myself in shape and in condition for Powerman Malaysia 2016. The Powerman is an duathlon event consisting of a 10km run, 65km bike another 10km run for finishing off.
Termed Asia Duathlon Championships, it is a race for potential duathletes and triathletes in Singapore and Malaysia to gauge their fitness level.
Today, I am weighing at 81kg, I have untouched bike mileage and insufficient run mileage. Despite these, I am looking forward to the trip with a group of like-minded buddies and most importantly, a chance to challenge myself to get back to racing competitively.
As I embark on my pursuit of passion, I have realised these 3 things:
1. Change
My body has changed. My time to improve and duration of recovery are visibly longer than when I was in my twenties. As a competitive individual, this change is frustrating. But this has also made me appreciate the need to have consistency in my training so that I may maintain my desired level of fitness.
2. Balance
Family vs work vs self-interest
Twenties: Less responsibilities, more time, more training and racing commitment.
Thirties: More responsibilities, less time, less training and racing commitment.
As a father/entrepreneur/athlete, striking a balance is challenging when you have multiple commitments. The key is to find the momentum to get you going, and never lose that momentum.
3. Passion
If you drag yourself to complete a task, it is work. If you happily finish the task, it is passion. If you know what is your passion, never let that flame in you die out. Always pursue your passion and your life will be a fulfilling one.
At 35, change is inevitable. And as I pursuit my passion in competitive sports, embracing change is simply part of the process. Positive and negative consequences are a form of balance I constantly need to strive and be sensitive about.
“There is no greater thing you can do with your life and your work than follow your passions – in a way that serves the world and you.” – Richard Branson
This was the second race for the new year after last year’s 24 challenges. I just completed the NUS Bizad Charity Run the Saturday before and improved last year’s timing by just over 2 minutes (of course still at my old man’s pace). So this was the second race in the first month of the new year, promoted as a trail and heritage event. The trail would be closed later this year so this was the second last race (the last one being the Green Corridor Run in March). (A new underground waterpipe line to meet future water demands in the city will be constructed. About half of the 22 km pipeline from Murnane Service Reservoir will be laid underneath the lower half of the Rail Corridor. Construction work is expected to commence in first half of 2016 and complete by 2019.)
I collected the race entry pack on the first day at Funan DigitaLife Mall Atrium and the queue snaked out of the building. I had to wait for 1.5 hours but the collection itself was done within 5 minutes. The queue was probably due to the collection of additional items for those who had requested for it. Perhaps there should be a different queue to allow the majority to collect theirs more efficiently.
The queue …
The Race Entry Pack
I had done the Green Corridor Run last year so I thought I was prepared for running on crushed stones and maybe a bit of mud too, given the rainy interludes the past days before. However just 4 days before the race, I caught a bad bout of flu so I had sore throat, running nose, cough, body aches and fever. I prayed I would recover because this was only the second one in the year and didn’t want a DNS. On Sat night, I popped my Panadol and went to sleep. I woke up, no more aches, no fever, not perfect but recovered enough to run. I promised to listen to my body and just enjoy the run. I took the public transport to the starting point near Bukit Timah. The website did mention about possibility of some shuttle service being arranged but guessed the public transport was ‘convenient’ enough in the end though there was no further follow-up on that. And then I saw the queue again (to starting point, bag deposits and the toilets).
Getting to Start Point
From MRT to Bt Timah
Deposit Bags
I joined the bag deposits queue and skipped the camera taking and toilet queues. I was early (or so I thought), and went to join the group of folks at the starting point but was at the back. The guards were strict, no, no, there were too many people in the wave. I squeezed through. Then it was time to start. We moved but then was stopped. Turned out I was in the second wave. No matter, we waited for about 3 minutes and then we were off. But the crowd was picking their way gingerly through the muddy ground. So it was run, stop, run. Since I was still recovering, this suited me fine at the beginning.
Credit : David Tan (Me in Blue)
The hydration points were adequate, I came across two. Then around 6 km mark, we came to this big jam where a huge mass were just making their way ‘painfully’ across what looked to be a big big puddle. I couldn’t really see as I was far behind. But on the left was a drain, and some runners were astride the drain and made their way across, then some went up the hill and I guessed down the other side to skip the muddy ‘pond’ of water. After quite a few minutes and I seemed to be not making much headway behind the huge crowd, I decided to step right into the drain, and the water reached up the calves. Since my shoes were already wet, I then ran across the mud near the middle. I heard some squeals (of dread or encouragement ?). But I thought after that, a few folks followed too. Then adrenaline pumping, I picked up pace and ran across more mud, shoes squishing through. I did wear an old pair learning from the past experience with dirt trail.
Credit : David Tan (Big Puddle)
Credit : Running Shots
Reached the finishing point within my target time of 1.5 hour, gulped down two cups of Gatorade and collected the medal. And met a running enthusiast, friend from FB, and we took a wefie. After collecting the bag (and smartphone), I took a few more pictures of runners at the finishing point and thought I also saw Jenny Huang (ultramarathoner and super mum). Looked like big families of runners gathered happily at one venue on that Sunday morning.
Overall, enjoyed the run. A different trail run from last year when the terrain was dryer and where there were more stones and pebbles than mud and water. Took longer than my PB, but nonetheless enjoyable muddy trail run. Hope weather and body holds for next trail run. But before that, it would be the half marathon.
(Note : Most were my shots but the beautiful ones are from friends : Photo credits to Lim Boon Tiong, Running Shots, Mythos Photography, FB friends, friend of friends)
350 refers to the recommended parts per million of carbon in the atmosphere that scientists believe is de rigueur for the Earth’s sustainability as we know it. Today, this number is around 400ppm. We have hit a climate milestone, as this is the first time in 800,000 years that the level hit 400ppm.
In recent years, more focus has been placed on the pressing issue of climate change as the globe starts seeing its tangible effects. One run aims to take the awareness to another level by inspiring Singaporeans to take action now. NTUC Income RUN 350, organised by Young NTUC, encourages participants to Run For A Greener Future, and is introducing more green initiatives in 2016 to educate and harness the strength of the masses to do our part to combat climate change.
Here are 3 reasons to join NTUC Income RUN 350 2016:
1. Gather with Singapore’s active community for a joint effort for a greener future.
In the last century, Carbon Dioxide (CO2) levels have increased at an alarming rate from decade to decade,we need to reduce our emissions and take climate action before more damage is done to our planet. RUN 350 incorporates green practices in organising this run which includes encouraging runners to bring their own water bottle, going paperless by not printing confirmation slip, using recycled metals for its medals and waste recycling.
One key initiatives during the event is the Utility Challenge. To take part, registrants simply need to bring along a copy of their most recent utility bill when collecting their race pack. Those whose bill reflects usage that is under the national average for their household type will receive a cash voucher from NTUC FairPrice, limited to the first 1,000 participants.
2. New category – Fun On Wheels
This is an initiative to increase awareness that everyone can do their part to reduce carbon emissions and that includes taking environmentally friendly transport options. Participants of this category will cycle, in-line skate or kick-scoot through a 4km route, showcasing the ease and availability of environmentally friendly transport options. This can be a great way to educate young kids on environmentally friendly transport options and let them know how they are helping to make the environment a better place.
3. Do our little part for the home we live in
Even though we may not see the effects of climate change or environmental problems directly in an urban city, it does not mean that we can turn a blind eye to climate and environmental issues. We have seen how forest fires in neighbouring countries gave us haze the past few years, while Beijing had its air pollution problems throughout the year and Australia had its forest fires to worry about. Singapore may be a small country, and can affect limited change over what happens all over the world. But every little effort counts and we can all do our part to make earth a better place to live in for ourselves and our future generations.
Gold Coast is one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations known for its sunshine, golden surf beaches, beautiful broadwater, popular restaurants and cafes, exciting theme parks and accommodation for all budgets. The Gold Coast Airport Marathon is Australia’s premier road race and was the first marathon in the country to hold an International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Road Race Gold Label. It is also Singaporeans’ favourite overseas marathon and here are some reasons why:
Run/Achieve your personal best at a scenic course
The marathon course runs next to the Gold Coast’s surf beaches and the Broadwater and has a reputation as one of the flattest and fastest courses in the world. The weather conditions in July on the Gold Coast are great for running. There is low humidity, little or no wind in the morning and mild temperatures. It is ideal for Singaporean runners who are striving for a personal best time.
Spectator support equals ‘Runspiration’
The Gold Coast Airport marathon is known for its large, enthusiastic crowd support. Their loud and inspiring cheers provide “Runspiration” to many runners. Be inspired and motivated throughout the race as the supporters cheer you on through to the finish line!
Experience Australian fun after the race
Enjoy the Gold Coast’s easy-living lifestyle with plenty of sun, surf and sand. For runners who love nature, the world heritage-listed rainforests are just a short drive away, and you can also get to cuddle a koala or hand-feed kangaroos. Gold Coast also boasts many other amenities and activities for tourists, ranging from great restaurants and cafes, entertainment hot spots, winery tours, whale watching excursions, broadwater cruises, health spas, world-famous golf courses and the latest in fashion for the shoppers.
Direct flights to Gold Coast
With direct flight from Singapore to Gold Coast, runners can get to run a world-class race with great weather and lovely scenery in just under 8 hours. This makes for an easy getaway especially for runners who are working or have a family. There are also travel packages available at affordable rates, which include:
Return airfare on Scoot
3/5 nights stay at the Grand Chancellor or similar
Race date: 1st May 2016 (Public Holiday)
Borneo, Sabah, Malaysia
Distances: Marathon, Half-marathon, 10 km
The Borneo International Marathon is a notable marathon on the South East Asian marathon calendar that attracts runners from far and wide. Undoubtedly, Borneo is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Malaysia and the race is held along the scenic coastal roads of Kota Kinabalu. In fact, the Borneo International Marathon is even dubbed “The Beautiful Run” among runners. Happening on a public holiday Labour Day, Borneo International Marathon is the race for Singaporeans looking for a unique sensation of marathon experience blended with awesome sightseeing and scenic exploration.
In the course of the marathon trip, you can set aside a special time and take a tour of some of the nature trails that Malaysia has to display. Your first stop can be Kudat, a tourist hot spot featuring stilted building and unique fishing boats. Seafood lovers are going to love Borneo for its cheap and good seafood. You may also revive your marathon adventure by hiking the rainforest trails in Sabah.
If you love nature and wild game, you can pass through Palau Tiga Park. The National Park buzzes with a variety of animals that you would not fail to love. Get a deeper insight of nature by taking a tour through the Poring Hot Springs.
Race date: 5th June 2016
Phuket, Thailand
Distances: Marathon, Half-marathon, 10.5 km, 5 km, 2 km Kids Run
Well organised, appropriately planned, and widely anticipated, thousands of people will be traversing Phuket in one of the most historical Marathons. You will get to tread through what is supposed to be one of the most glorious Asia’s cities. Meet with over 6,000 different people from more than 60 nationalities and share the glorious moment of traversing local villages, pineapple plantations, and rubber fields.
Besides the high-spirited flexing of muscles, this International marathon presents you with the opportunity of exploring the magnificent town of Phuket. Grab the opportunity to explore the glorious Phuket town boasting of architectural designs of Chinese Immigrants. In the land of smiles, you can further experience the Thai culture by enjoying what it is famous for – food, massage and its people’s hospitality.
Race date: 7th August 2016 (Public Holiday)
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Distances: Marathon, Half-marathon, 10 km, 3 km
Introduced in 2014, the Angkor Empire marathon is the first full marathon in Cambodia. The race is situated in Angkor Wat, which is a temple complex and the largest religious monument in the world. You will get to run through some breathtaking scenery including some of Cambodia’s ancient temples. The route is also known to be typically flat, and runners can expect to get their PBs at this race!
Siem Reap is a growing Cambodian city that is a popular tourist destination. Surrounding the city is a range of ancient temples, well preserved and beautiful to visit. In the city itself you will find a variety of restaurants, lively nightlife and plenty to see and do.
The most popular tourist attraction around Siem Reap is the Angkor Wat temple, a sight that you will see during your marathon run and definitely one that you consider taking more time to explore. Considered the 7th wonder of the world, the Angkor Wat temple is astonishingly well preserved. It is the largest religious monument in the world and when visiting, you cannot help but be awe struck by its majesty.
The Compressport Rail Corridor run 2016 was our first ever trail running experience. We were so fortunate to have gotten 2 free race slots from our generous friends at Gatorade Singapore, who were the official hydration sponsor for the event. The race was held on the 31st January with 2 categories – 10km and 5km. Feeling adventurous and all eager to explore the new route, we chose to run the 10km category which stretched from Bukit Timah railway station to Tanjong Pagar railway station.
The flag off time for the 10km category was at 9am, the latest flag off timing for a 10 km morning race we ever went to. However, no complaints from us because this meant that we would be able to get more sleep and travel there via public transport instead of spending money on a cab 🙂 We took a 10 min bus ride at around 7.15am, alighting at King Albert Park station.
There were already many runners that had arrived before us, even though we had arrived more than an hour early! We deposited our bags at the trucks which would transport them to the end point at Tanjong Pagar. It was a smooth process for both baggage deposit and collection 🙂
Since it was about an hour before flag off, we joined many other runners in taking photos along the picturesque railway tracks on the suspended bridge which stretched about 50meters long:
Tracks along the bridge
Surprisingly for the big crowd that was expected, approximately 6000 runners for 10km, there were only 10 porta-potties available. Luckily we arrived early before the queues started to grow longer… and longer… and longer…
Finally it was time to flag off! We were in the 2nd wave although we went to wait at the starting pen at 8.30am (I guess there were even more kiasu people than us haha). But the intervals between each wave weren’t too long so it was alright. Just about 100m after flagging off, there was already a jam in front of us! We were wondering if there was a steep drop off ahead that was causing the jam, but as we approached it, we realised that it was a huge puddle of mud and everyone was going AROUND the puddle instead of through it, thus causing the jam.
But little did we know that this was the first of many mud puddles to come 😮
I honestly don’t recall it raining the day earlier..
In addition to the frequent puddles of mud every 50 meters or so, I found the run rather adventurous and interesting! Running on the soil and grass was actually much softer than running on the road, which is something we are both used to. Like most runners that day, we did not buy trail running shoes. As a result, careful footing was really important as some parts of the trail were really uneven with rocks. It was also really slippery running/walking over the sticky mud. Any mistake could easily lead to a sprained ankle or worse >< . Along the route, there were several underpasses we ran under. I remember one particular underpass which was really dark and we could hardly see anything in front of us. It was so scary because there were so many rocks on the ground and I didn’t want to trip over it.. You can’t be too careful right?
On the bright side, the weather that day was awesome! The trees and the low cloud cover that morning made the run really cooling even though it was rather late in the morning. Hydration points were nicely spaced along the route but we brought our own bottle so we didn’t have to stop to take a drink. I was so glad that I brought along my GU chews that I bought at the expo a week before because I was so hungry along the way 🙂
Happy running!
The 7km mark was the most memorable part of the race. As we approached it, we realised that there was a huge crowd in front of us. None of us knew what was going on up ahead that was causing this hold up, because we were unable to see anything from the back. There was about a hundred people packed under this bridge and it was slowly getting stuffy and humid.
Doesn’t this look like a scene from a zombie apocalypse?
After about 8 minutes of jostling and squeezing with many other sweaty bodies, we were almost reaching the front of the crowd. To our left, we actually saw people climbing up a slope? What was causing the jam turned out to be a massive grey puddle which was shin deep and very murky.
Some people decided not to go through the puddle so they took a detour up the hill while the rest of us decided to brave through the mud. It was taking so long because again people were walking at the edge of the puddle which was less deep than the middle. I wasn’t too afraid so decided to just step into it and thus my entire feet was submerged in the mud !! As a kid I used to love playing in mud and my sisters would say it was because my zodiac was a PIG. I guess I was in my true element then, so naturally I loved every moment of it haha. However, after passing through the “mud pond”, the icky feeling of murky water, mud and soil in our shoes was really unpleasant .. our main goal from then on was to quickly get to the finishing line and wash off!!
The end point was at the former Tanjong Pagar railway station. The last kilometre of the route was dry soil and grass which made running so much easier! We finished the race much longer than we would usually do. However, considering that we slowed down over every mud puddle we came across to avoid slipping and stopping at the massive jam during the run, I do suppose that it was still fairly decent.
After passing the finishing line we were greeted by volunteers who congratulated us with the medal and some nourishment- water, ice cold Gatorade and bananas! We are so grateful for the volunteers for selflessly spending their sunday helping out at the race. The event wouldn’t have been possible without them 🙂
Only after the race did I realise that my legs and shoes were so dirty from the mud 😮 Luckily there was an area with hoses where participants could clean up. But of course there was a really long queue for it because many others were muddy as well.
We decided to take some pictures on the tracks too! There were many other runners taking pictures there as well.
Overall, we thought that the race was an interesting first trail running experience. We realised that trail running was so much different from road running. In road running, we didn’t have to be so careful with stumbling over rocks or sliding over the mud for example (but of course having trail shoes would be better). Trail running heighten our senses and it forces us to pay more attention to our surroundings. It was definitely more tiring to run in the trails as compared to the road. We were glad to be given this opportunity to run along the green corridor before it will be closed for renovation some time during this year.
This definitely won’t be our last trail run! Looking forward to more trails in the future! ??
Running a marathon may seem like an incredible feat for some of us, but imagine if you have to run a marathon blind. Josh Crary is one guy that managed to accomplish this. He did not let his physical disability stop him from achieving his dreams, and even ran the Boston Marathon twice.
At age 14, Josh was diagnosed with the degenerative retinal condition known as choroideremia causing him to go permanently blind. Never allowing his condition to hold him back, Josh decided to run the 2012 Boston Marathon. Both of his parents passed within the 3 months after the race, inspiring him to run again in 2013 in honor of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, where his father was treated at. Josh hopes that by running he can connect with others in similar situations and inspire them to go after their dreams!
Watch as Josh shares his story:
In Singapore, there is Runninghour, an inclusive running club that promotes integration of people with special needs through running. You can find friends who are mildly intellectually challenged, physically challenged and visually challenged joining the club’s runs to keep fit. What’s more, last year they organised the first blind run, Runninghour2015 where all participants could experience running a race blind-folded.
TomTom has just released an all-new Spark GPS fitness watch range. One watch to look out for is the TomTom Spark Cardio + Music GPS Fitness Watch, which comes with an integrated 3GB music player, which can carry up to 500 songs (depending on the size of your music files). Along with other features that allow you to track your fitness activities and progress, TomTom Spark gives you everything you need in one easy-to-use device on your wrist.
Additional features of the TomTom Spark Cardio + Music GPS Fitness Watch:
Automatic Sleep Tracking
Multi-Sport Modes include run, treadmill, indoor and outdoor cycle, swim, gym and freestyle. Gym and freestyle modes are to track other indoors and outdoors sports activities e.g. skiing or spinning.
Heart Rate Training Zones
GPS Tracking
Smartphone Notifications**
Perfect Fit & Customisable Straps
Preloaded Music
Audio Performance Feedback
Wireless Syncing
Water Resistant up to 40m/5ATM***
Indoor Training Mode
Race Mode
Interval Training
Continuous Heart Rate Tracking
Workout with music hassle-free
The all-new Spark GPS fitness watch range, with integrated 3GB music player, makes it easier for fitness enthusiasts to boost their training by listening to songs directly from their watch. The watch can carry over 500 songs without you carrying your phone. Store your playlists on your wrist and listen to them wirelessly during your workout. It is much lighter than strapping a phone to your arm and you don’t have to worry about wires getting in the way during your workout.
The TomTom Spark GPS fitness watch streams music to a wide range of Bluetooth® headphones. You can find your workout rhythm with the exclusive preloaded Running Trax mix in the watch, curated by Ministry of Sound. Otherwise, it is also easy to download your own playlists to TomTom Spark from iTunes or Windows Media® Player.
“We know that music plays an important role when it comes to motivating and improving sports performance, but relying on a smartphone is all too often an uncomfortable experience,” says Chris Kearney, Vice President, Asia Pacific, TomTom.
Track your activity anytime, anywhere
Steps, active minutes, distance, calories burned and sleep duration are all tracked by the 24/7 activity tracking feature in the TomTom Spark. You can set and track daily and weekly goals, follow progress on your watch or via the TomTom MySports app and TomTom MySports website. Alternatively, you can also upload your stats to multiple platforms including RunKeeper, Nike+ and more.
Track your heart rate accurately for a more efficient workout
You can track your heart rate accurately with the built-in heart monitor, without the need for a chest strap. Heart rate training is the most accurate way to understand how your body responds to exercise. It is also the most effective way for you to reach your personal goals, as monitoring your heart rate during training provides the instant feedback you need to train more efficiently and see results quicker. The multi-sport mode means that users can track all of their indoor and outdoor sporting activity including running, cycling, swimming, treadmill and gym workouts, giving them real time information including time, distance, speed and pace.
“The unique combination of an integrated music player, built-in heart rate monitor, 24/7 activity tracking, multi-sport modes and GPS in TomTom Spark makes it easier than ever to track progress, improve overall fitness levels and ultimately get more from your workout”.
The TomTom Spark Fitness GPS Fitness Watch range will be available at the following prices:
Different strap sizes in various colour, and accessories are also available. More information can be found on TomTom
At TomTom (TOM2) our mission is to make technology so easy to use, that everyone can achieve more. We create easy to use navigation devices, helping millions of people to get where they want to be. Today, we continue to simplify the complex, making technology more accessible for everyone.
We make easy to use navigation devices, sport watches and action cameras for consumers. We enable businesses with vehicles to more easily manage and improve fleet efficiency whilst increasing overall business performance with our Telematics solutions. We also offer a world leading real-time map platform that is powering innovative location based services and helping to make automated driving a reality for the automotive industry.
Ministry of Sound Group is an iconic global entertainment business comprised of a unique portfolio that includes the renowned London club, one of the world’s largest independent record labels, international events, an extensive digital presence, Ministry of Sound Radio and the successful compilations business.
Hailed as the home of dance music, Ministry of Sound’s flagship brands have been at the forefront of global dance music culture for twenty-four years and are some of the most recognisable names in the music industry.
On 31 January 2016, I made my way to the Compressport Rail Corridor Run 2016 starting point at the historic Bukit Timah Railway Station, conveniently located within walking distance from the new King Albert Park MRT station. Based on the race-pack collection queue, I was expecting a huge crowd at the starting tent and true enough, many participants were already queuing up for toilets, baggage deposits and taking photos of the railway. Like many other Singaporeans, this race is a valuable and rare opportunity to explore the heritage, greenery and terrains of the green corridor.
Race day
Splashing mud, rocky roads and endless surprises
I had no idea what to expect in the trail route as it was my first time running through the green corridor and the first km was already filled with many muddy grounds that were slippery, soft and rather hard to gain proper grip. While it was chaotic and bottlenecks were seen at different points throughout the race, most of us had a fun time trying to find ways to overcome the different obstacles in the path. The route was moderately flat and the huge mud pool took many of us by surprise but we still went ahead to splash through the murky water anyway!
Muddy and soaked shoes
Running buddies!
Just as I reached the 5km mark, the race participants of the 5km category were flagged off and I was overwhelmed with additional crowd and even more mud stains. The influx of more people simply meant that I had to either keep up with my pace or slow down to a jog along with the masses. In my opinion, I think the 30minutes lag time between the 10km and 5km start time was insufficient, considering that the trails required more time to complete as compared to typical road races.
My favorite part of the race was towards the finishing point where the majestic Tanjong Pagar Railway station greets us. The unique colonial architecture amidst the lush greenery was a stunning view that made all the sweat and dirt worth it. All finishers were presented with a cool medal, bananas and gatorade and the entire railway station instantly became a photo spot for all of us.
Memorable race experience
Finisher’s Medal (10km)
This race event served as a great closure to mark the last opportunity for runners, citizens and trail lovers in Singapore to enjoy this uninterrupted stretch of greenery and history. I am glad to see many people picking up not only running, but trail running and bringing home parts of Singapore’s history back home with them. With better logistics on managing race day crowds and pre-race events, I believe such trail running events can grow to be next ‘in’ things amongst the running community in Singapore. Congrats to all finishers and I look forward to another weekend of adrenaline and sweat!
The Compressport Rail Corridor Run took place today, allowing runners the opportunity to run and experience a race at the rail corridor before it is closed for renovation works. Participants were all eager to be part of history at this monumental place and looking forward to the race. As they ran along the trails, they were met with different terrains and even a surprise mud pool which they had to trudge across. Despite being covered in mud and dirt at the finishing line, it was a fun experience for all participants and even an eye-opener to runners at their first trail race.
Although I have been running regularly, somehow I really have no stamina today. This 10km run is super scary, I’m not afraid of the mud, nor getting my 1 month young New Balance shoes dirty, but I’m afraid to slip and fall, it’s really slippery, my whole run I was thinking of every possibility on how I will fall and die. Such as fell and roll down into the drain, fall and a branch pierce through my body and die horribly. Feel as though I’m serving NS although I’ve never serve NS before. Climbed on all fours, slide down a slope on my butt, stomp through mud and almost fell multiple times but luckily my balancing skills seems like not bad.
Seems like every random people is giving each other encouragement and assistance, one man assist me at a slope, although he just offered a helping hand to pull me up on my feet, at that moment I just feel that this is what makes us human and life is beautiful. This is my worst 10km ever, trail running is super tiring. And I wondered this 10km is already so tiring, should I challenge a full marathon again at the end of the year? Since I already completed a full marathon once, bucket list cleared so once is enough?
Nearing the end of the run, I met another uncle who is very encouraging. Somehow we ran side by side together for the last km. And just when I wanted to stop and start walking at the last 200m to the finished point, he noticed and said: Continue running, it’s just in the mind! Every run is really an experience. Good thing is I feel slimmer immediately after the run, and the weighing scale didn’t disappoint me.
Race Pack Collection:
The Kiasu Singapore lang spirit, queued for 1 hour to collect my race pack on the first day of collection, heard second day like no queue. Next time collect on race day better, no need specially go down. Or in near future do something like postage, I’m sure some people like me won’t mind paying for postage.
Hydration:
Water points only offered mineral water, mineral water is ok. But not cold 🙁
Banana:
Hurhurhur. The banana look not appealing so I never take. Recently I saw a running meme on Instagram from Runnersbe which is quite funny and true, its something like: We paid so much for a race, is a ripe banana too much to ask for?
Route:
Nice, I like greenery and its my first time here, get yourself muddy and dirty is actually quite romantic right! I don’t know when will I not be lazy to scrub my shoes.
Event Tee:
Sleeveless will be great, help you save cloth and cost somemore leh.
Medal:
It looks chio or not I don’t really care actually, its the sweat and calories I sacrifice to get it!
At the age of 22, Ben Davis weighed over 360 pounds. Depressed, addicted to food and morbidly obese, he eventually decided to take control of his life and get healthier. He started to run. He experienced not just nipple-chafe, that endearing long-distance companion, but actual bloody nipples and excruciating showers. But these did not stop him from reaching his ultimate goal. He went on to complete a 5K, 10K, and eventually the prestigious Boston Marathon in 2010.
“You don’t love running when you first start because it hurts. Your legs hurt, your lungs hurt. But once you make the decision and start to move forward, you become a different person.”
Watch Ben’s 120 pound transformation and be inspired to make a change to your life too:
Looney Tunes Fun Run is another new race in the Singapore running scene this year. Despite the small scale of its small race, participants had fun at the race with the familiar and upbeat Looney Tunes theme songs playing throughout the event. Watch the video for highlights of the event:
At a cross-country event in Burlada, Navarre, on Dec 2, 2012, Spanish Ivan Fernandez Anaya impressed the world when he gave up his chances of winning a cross-country race by displaying his incredible sportmanship spirit. Leading the race was Kenyan athlete Abel Mutai, but Abel stopped 10 metres before the finishing line, thinking that he had already completed the race. Upon seeing this, Ivan could have easily ran past Abel and win the race, but he slowed down and gestured to him the finishing line. Ivan continued to push Abel to the finish line and only walking past him with a handshake after the finishing line.
In Singapore, we also experienced a similar act last year during the SEA Games Marathon, where Ashley Liew stopped and waited for the other athletes who had run in the wrong direction to catch up during the SEA Games marathon last year. Ashley ended up finishing 8th in the race, but was applauded for his performance and sportsmanship.
Would you have done the same in their place? Watch Ivan Fernandez Avaya show his rival Abel Mutai what it means to fair play:
The NUS Bizad Charity Run 2016 was held on last Saturday evening 24th Jan. This year, it aims to rally Bizaders past and present – and the general public – around a common theme: Inclusivity. This is the 6th in the series, and they are raising funds for NUS Business School Study Bursaries, as well as to support two external beneficiaries, namely, Boys’ Town and Muscular Dystrophy Association (Singapore).
It was my first race to start the year (just like last year). Collection of the pre-race pack was a breeze. In less than 5 minutes I collected the pack and could choose one of the 4 colors for the bag.
Race Pack
On Race Day, it was raining heavily but it slowed to a drizzle as I parked my car in the lot allocated for visitors. I made my way to the Mochtar Riady Building where the start point was. The rain seemed to stop at about 5 pm (official start time of race), answering most of the runners’ prayers, I suspected. I was outside the building with some of the eager starters. There were announcements being made in the building but we could only hear muffled sounds and just waited. Then at about 5.15 pm, a guy came up to announce that the race would start at 5.30 pm. There were lightning warnings for the region and they were not taking chances with the safety of the public though the rain seemed to have stopped. Then at about 5.30 pm, I saw two men came up to the front, and without much fanfare, blasted the horns and the race had started. Quite a few runners were still talking amongst themselves but everyone was glad to start finally.
The route seemed very similar, (rather challenging with elevation and steps), to last year’s as I remembered the ups and downs, the steps to a building, up a fairly long flight of stairs up a steep climb, and then more slopes and finally back to the building. There were sufficient hydration points, both water and 100 plus were provided at about every 2 km intervals. The weather held throughout and overall, it was a nice cool evening run.
Race Route : NUS Bizad Chairty Run site
Source : Image from Yi Heng (PrisChew Blog)
At the finishing point, there was no medal but drinks and bananas were provided. The runners would have to proceed on to inside the building to collect the finisher medals. Probably this could be due to the rain forecast but it would be better to have them near the finishing point. In the building we were also entertained by the medley of songs performed by the Second Sunrise band, winner of The Strepsils Hit The Right Note Competition 2015. Nice start to the new year. I also had a chance to have a quick chat with Uncle Chan who had participated in the 5 km run as he was making his way back after the run. We were separated by the bush divider. I am glad that he is still running well into this year since the Standard Chartered Marathon last year. And happy that the rain didn’t stop the first race of the year.
People don’t become good runners overnight. It is always a process that requires determination, hard work and consistent training. Only through the pains of training, can we transcend into a better, faster and stronger runner. ‘Transcend Yourself’ is what The Performance Series promotes, encouraging non-runners to become runners and runners to become ever better runners. Here are 3 phases you will go through when you are undergoing transformation to become a runner:
Mentality: From couch potato to runners, from lazy to active
The first step to running is always the hardest. You need to be determined and have a strong mind to leave your comfort zone. Stop giving yourself excuses to not go out for a run, and change these negative thoughts around. The only way to get yourself to start running, is by changing your mentality and stop letting yourself be lazy. By mentally preparing yourself to be ready for a run, you have already put half your foot onto the road to becoming a better runner.
Action: From the office chair to the streets
The next thing you have to do is to leave your chair and really go out for the run. The beginning may be the toughest; you will feel pain, soreness and lack of breath. You will feel like giving up. But you just began; you can’t let yourself give up so easily just yet without trying hard enough. In fact, running can also help with fatigue and concentration, which are problems people tend to experience from working at a desk for too long. And the good news is – as long as you persevere, you will see yourself getting stronger and running faster over time.
Physique: From overweight to healthy
Photo credits: The Guardian
You may be overweight. Or you have that extra flab you want to lose. Running can help you to achieve these goals. On top of that, there are many health benefits you can get from running. Just by starting to run once a week, you can become a stronger, happier and healthier person.
In 2016, don’t run away from a challenge!
The Performance Series gives you the opportunity to #TranscendYourself! Singapore’s first running race series is here and spans across five races, in five unique locations over the island. With 2.5km, 5km and 10km, as well as a stairs-climbing race, this can be the start of your transformation to a better you. Click here to find out more.
Registrations are open – Get $5.00 OFF
All JRL readers get to enjoy a $5 discount when registering for any category of a single race.Enter promo Code: 5OFFJRL during checkout to redeem. Additionally, you can sign up for a bundle of 3 or 5 races and enjoy savings up to S$50.
