KaRUNungan 2010: Run For Knowledge

On November 28, 2010, Sunday, I’d like to invite you to join the KaRUNungan 2010: Run for Knowledge. This run event being led by The Knowledge Channel to “generate awareness and support for the cause of Philippine education, particularly in bridging the continuous resource and learning gaps present in our educational system.”

Here are the race details:

When: November 28, 2010

Where: Meralco Compound, Ortigas

Assembly Time: 4:00 am to 5:00 am

Distance Categories and Race Start: 15K – 5:30 am | 10K – 5:45 am | 5K – 6:00 am | 3K – 6:15am

Race Fees: 15K & 10K – Php 600 | 5K & 3K – Php 400

Race Maps: Please click HERE

 

Registration areas:

Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc. – 5/F Benpres Building,
Exchange Road Corner Meralco Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig

Chris Sports
- Ever Gotesco Commonwealth, Upper Ground Floor
- SM North EDSA, F-104 Ground Floor
- Market! Market!, 439-440 4/F
- Glorietta 3, 2nd Floor
- Festival Mall, 3rd Level
- SM Megamall, Building B, Lower Ground Floor
- SM Fairview, Ground Floor

R.O.X.
- Bonifacio High Street, Building B1, G/F

Second Wind
- Ortigas Home Depot
- #88c Maginhawa Street, Teachers Village, Quezon City

 

I am looking forward to this event. One is it’s for a very worthy cause. Two, it presents a new route which I know is a very challenging one as I work near the area. So, what are you waiting for. Sign-up now and let’s support The Knowledge Channel’s worthy cause! Registration is on-going.

TBR Dream Marathon: Congratulations and Thank You

Still on a high after me and Suzanne (my wife) successfully finished our first marathon at the TBR Dream Marathon last Saturday at Nuvali, Laguna. So many ideas and stories running through our minds right now that we don’t even know where to begin. It may even take several entries to recount the wonderful experience of our ‘”BestEST First Marathon.”

But one thing that’s very clear to us is how overwhelmed we are by the event and how thankful we are for having been a part of it. So, let me start by expressing our sincerest thanks and congratulations to all who made the event possible.

Many Congratulations and Many Thanks to:

• Jaymie, The Bull Runner, for conceptualizing and staging the Dream Marathon. I had planned to run my first marathon December 2010, but the Dream Marathon enticed me to deviate from my plan. There are times when my stubbornness leads to me trouble but the beginner’s marathon you put together was just perfect! The Dream Marathon was a marathon that treated beginners as VIPs; you provided us everything that we need and more – bull circles with the best of the best, bull sessions with the Second Wind team, Coach Jim’s beginner’s program, dream chasers and pacers and a safe and memorable event. Congratulations once again!
• Coach Jim Lafferty for developing a fantastic beginner’s program and for endlessly motivating all dream marathoners. Your optimism and energy was contagious!
• Dream Chasers, Pacers and Second Wind team for the encouragement and motivation. You call our names and tell us we’re doing okay – wow, hearing one’s name being cheered on is indeed a great boost! You endlessly tell us we’re doing a good job no matter how tired we are. You all lifted our spirits and helped us cross the finish line. (Our special thanks to my good friend and officemate Eric for cheering us on complete with banners – thanks man! And also to Ms. Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan for never failing to cheer runners whenever she passed by – in fact, I noticed Suzanne running faster whenever you cheered us on)
• Takbo.ph for the cheers and support. You are such a fantastic group. We wanted to personally thank all of you but did not have the chance to. Hopefully, we get the chance to do that in future races and events. We hope to finally be a part of the Takbo.ph ‘class picture’ after a race.
• Fellow Dream Marathoners for being very friendly and supportive. Everyone was supportive of each other – a friendly ‘good morning’ here and there, a warm ‘good luck’ here and there and countless bright smiles all over. Congratulations as well to all of you!
• Hydration Station Support teams all volunteers for your unwavering support in ensuring that we are hydrated. Add the fact that you also cheered for us and motivated us to complete the marathon.
• Co-Presenters and Sponsors for all the goodies you gave us. You really spoiled and pampered us! Thank you also for making the event a success.

Right this moment, both of us looking forward to next year’s TBR Dream Marathon. We are expressing our intent to help in any way we can. Count us in!

In conclusion, let me just say that it’s true what everybody says – that you’ll never forget your first marathon. And all of you made it possible for me and Suzanne. We are sincerely appreciative and grateful for all your help. Thank you for positively changing our lives.

The “M” Word

Gulp?! Dare I say it? I get tense, jittery, edgy and anxious with just the thought of it. You can even collate all the words synonymous to being nervous and it may not be enough to describe how I feel. Yikes!

Gulp?! Am I really doing this? Being the planner and sometimes obsessive-compulsive individual, I get the feeling that I’m rushing this.

Gulp?! So, this is it! The Marathon beckons!

The Initial Plan

Running a marathon is one of my goals for this year. But the plan was to do it second half of the year. I’m looking at QCIM or, if there’s an opportunity, the Singapore Standard Chartered Marathon. Like a slow warming diesel engine, I figured I should spend at least 6 months training for it. My injuries have been well chronicled in this blog and I am wary that forcing the issue might not be a good idea.

Opportunity Knocks

Then again, this flat foot runner can be quite stubborn. I may adhere to a conservative plan, but my thought bubble is already filled with aggressive plan B’s and C’s. It’s the kind of thing that sometimes gets me in trouble. But I can’t resist the opportunity that came knocking. It’s too good and too enticing to pass up.

My First Marathon

As such, I took the plunge. Come May 22, I’ll be running my first marathon. I have signed-up for The Bull Runner Dream Marathon at Nuvali, Laguna. It’s a marathon conceptualized, of course, by TBR and it’s targeted mainly to first-time marathon runners – like me!

I’ve always read and heard that a runner will always remember his or her first marathon. Somehow, I’m starting to understand better what they mean. The journey to the marathon is just as important as running it. And I’m in the journey now…lovin’ and enjoyin’ every minute of it. Quite soon, I’ll complete this journey and I can’t wait to tell my story.

Condura Run 2010: FlatFoot’s Continuing Cramps Debacle

Five 21K races, five cases of leg cramps! That is the sorry and sad tale that yours truly has experienced in each of his 21K races. A little refresher:

• QCIM – cramps at KM 20 (21K debut)
• Adidas KOTR – cramps at KM 18
• Timex Run – Cramps at KM 18
• Philstar Run – Cramps at KM 17
• Condura Run – Cramps at about KM 18

A five-for-five batting average is good for most sports, but not in a case like this. Time and again, I’ve been humbled – and embarrassed – by cramps. One minute, I’m running a pretty good pace; the next minute, I’m wobbling and agonizing in pain. I can’t seem to complete a 21K without yielding to cramps. The frustration just keeps building up.

I was running at a comfortable and good pace. At the 16K marker, I had it at 1 hour 33 minutes. I felt I was on-course to finish within 2hours 5 minutes. Then, at about the KM 18 mark, cramps suddenly got in the way and it completely caught me off-guard. My previous cramps started with a bit of a ‘warning’ – some muscle tightening and fatigue. This time around, it just happened!

My leg cramps at the recently concluded Condura Run 2010 was the bitterest pill to swallow – physically and emotionally – as I trained well and hard for it (or so I thought?!). Physically, it was so painful that it seemed I didn’t train at all. Emotionally, it left a psychological trauma that bothered me for so many days. “Why, oh why?” was the only question I had.

As frustrating and depressing as it is, I know that I’m back to the drawing board. I need to go back and see what I did wrong in training. Already, I think Natz (i2runner) has a very good point – that I run ‘on-pace’ in my long runs. That is, instead of doing an LSD, I should train to run long within my 21K pace and not in a slow pace. He may be right as I can complete a 21K LSD without cramping.

And so, after feeling down a few days, my resolve is as strong as ever. I’m confident I can get this monkey off my back. Time to train again and time to train more wisely and effectively.

By the way, FlatFoot’s Better Late than Never Condura Run 2010 Review

OVERALL RATING

I’ll be using a scale of 1 to 5 defined as: 1-Poor, 2-Fair, 3-Good, 4-Very Good, 5-Excellent.

I would rate this run event as a 4.5/5 – Almost Excellent! Congratulations to Mr. Ton and Mr. Patrick Concepcion for staging a successful 2010 Condura Run. Here’s me wishing that we all get to run along Skyway again next year.

THE HIGHS

Organized race kit distribution. It wasn’t perfect but it was a remarkable improvement from last year’s race kit redemption mishaps. There were many tents manned by friendly and accommodating volunteers. The tents were also labeled accordingly to direct runners where to claim their kits.

The Skyway experience. It is the only running event that takes 21K and 42K runners to the Skyway.

Race started early and on time. With fireworks at that too! With the heat, I’m sure glad the race started that early.

Adequate water stations with abundant supply. Water and 100Plus sports drinks were properly segregated. There were also people handing out cups of water to make it easier for runners.

Finisher’s Medals for all distance categories. Most races only give medals to 21K or 42K finishers.

Safety and Security of runners were ensured. There were enough traffic aides and marshals along the race route.

Presence of KM markers. I don’t have a way of telling its accuracy, but it’s greatly welcome that the markers were there.

Runners helping runners. When I succumbed to cramps during the last 3 kms., there were some runners who asked if I was okay and some even offered to run with me and pace me to the finish. I wasn’t able to get their names but I owe them big time! Thank you!

Other positives: Many portalets in the start/finish area and some along the race route; Cold sponges; Water tanks to spray cool water to runners; Bananas being given to runners; Motivators and bands along the route; Nice commemorative T-Shirts; Philippine Star Condura Run supplement section; Lots of freebies (ice cream, beer, MH & WH back issues); Race results for 10K/21K/42K were released within 12 hours.

THE LOWS

Missing bar codes for 21K & 42K race bibs. It was highly commendable, though, that it was addressed immediately. The organizers sent information via email, blogs and SMS on what to do.

Unlit areas along Kalayaan flyover and Skyway. I almost tripped in a pothole along Kalayaan flyover.

Not all received the finisher’s medals. From the Condura Run website, it is said that there was “an attempt to take the box containing several medals.” As such, if you registered on or before Jan. 24 and you didn’t receive the finisher’s medal, just send an email to: secretariat@condura.com

See you all at next year’s Condura Run. Cheers and Happy Running!

A Busy February

A busy February running month awaits all of us. Several big runs are scheduled every weekend of February. The kind of ‘big runs’ that are much anticipated with the hype and the well-known corporate sponsors. I sure am excited and raring to go!

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The Condura Run 2010 – Run For the Dolphins 

Condura Run 2010

When: February 7, 2010, Sunday 

Where: Fort Bonifacio 

Distance: 3K/5K/10K/21K/42K; 21K & 42K will run through Skyway 

Status: Registered (21K)  

I’ve been looking forward to this race since last year. I wallowed in the hospital as the first race to run through the Skyway was being held. I fervently hoped for another opportunity to run through Skyway. And thanks to Condura, I’ll get to run there for the first time.  

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The North Face (TNF) Thrill of the Trail – Nuvali 

 

When: February 14, 2010, Sunday 

Where: Nuvali, Laguna 

Distance: 11K/22K/11K Couples 

Status: Registered (11K couples run with Suzanne, my wife) 

It is officially our Valentine’s Day date. The first race where we’ll run side by side up to the finish. It will be my third trail run and Suzanne’s first. 

I enjoy trail runs. I enjoy the scenery and the fresh air. I don’t worry about setting a PR; I don’t even mind the time. When I joined last year’s TNF Thrill of the Trail at Nasugbu, Batangas, I was even carrying a digital camera to capture every moment of my first trail run. This year will not be an exception – we’ll be on a chillax and picture-taking pace.  

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Century Superbods Run 2010 (RunRio Trilogy Leg 1) 

 

When: February 21, 2010, Sunday 

Where: Fort Bonifacio 

Distance: 3K/5K/10K/21K 

Status: Not Registered Yet (Will register for 21K) 

If there’s a 21K category, I’ll most likely join that race. It’s my favorite distance category nowadays. I figure it will help me a lot in my weight-loss goal. Plus, I need to consistently log miles as I start preparing for a full marathon this year. 

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There you have it. Some great runs we can look forward to. Good luck and Happy Running!

2010 Running Goals

“All My Life, I’ve had one dream…To Achieve My Many Goals!” — Homer Simpson

The quote above sounds good enough…I guess? Well, it’s Homer — our favorite hilarious, beer-chugging dad. Somehow, he manages to say some really relevant things. 

A belated Happy New Year to all of you. I’m sure glad that I’m back to blogging. My goodness, it’s been about a month since my last blog entry! I have been consumed with a lot of things that I haven’t found time to write. All that will change now.

First things first – PLAN & SET GOALS. For this year, I aim to accomplish the following:

• Lose 15 more pounds. This goal is very essential in my quest to finish a full marathon. When I started running 21K, the more I felt the disadvantage of being heavy. It felt like I’m carrying dumbbells while running. I’m making this my number 1 priority at the moment!
• Run a full marathon (42K) regardless of the time. This is it! The thought of it scares and excites me. But running a full marathon is what most, if not all, of us aim for. Furthermore, finishing a 42K opens up an opportunity for me to move forward and train for an ultramarathon on 2011.
• Run a sub-2 hour 21K. Last year, it was ‘almost but not quite.’ I got close to a sub-2 hour finish time during the Adidas KOTR but cramps got in the way. This year, I’m hopeful I’d be able to achieve it.
• Run a sub-50 minute 10K. I was not able to accomplish this goal last year. After the 2-month layoff, I just concentrated on getting back in running shape and making sure I remained injury-free.
• Run a 5K in 20 to 24 minutes. Similar to my 10K, this was another goal I failed to accomplish last year. This year, I’d attempt to finally accomplish it.
• Consistently integrate core exercises, cross-training and leg strengthening into my training. The operative word here is ‘consistently.’ Last year, I just didn’t give much importance to these 3 important exercises. I sure got lucky as I remained injury-free towards the second half of 2009. But I can’t leave anything to chance.
• Consistently update my blog. I may have just won the ‘worst blog’ award. I feel bad for not updating my blog for a week, what more for a month. Like I said, all that will change.

Well, that’s all for now. This is it! The clock is ticking! Good luck to all runners! Cheers and Happy Running!

My Second Wind by Eric Rivas

FlatFoot’s Note: Last November 1, 2009, Eric, my officemate and friend, successfully and proudly finished the “2009 ING New York City Marathon.” He is among the 42,000 runners who mustered enough courage and determination to run in one of the most celebrated and toughest marathons in the world. Here, he chronicles his triumph that will leave us inspired and determined to finish our own marathon. To Eric, many congratulations once again and thank you for agreeing to have your story be published in this blog. Cheers and Happy Running to more marathons and, perhaps, another round of NYCM!

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My Second Wind   

 42 @ 40       

A hundred meters or so from the bright blue arch, I almost burst into tears as I choked on my emotions. But my body was too tired so I had to do without the drama. My legs would get whatever strength I had left for the purpose of bringing me across the finish line and when I did, raising my arms would burn whatever few calories I had left in my system.       

I was spent. But I was happy. Extremely happy. For there I was in beautiful Central Park in the middle of autumn. I had completed the New York City Marathon in less than five and a half hours and no one can keep me from claiming my prize, the finisher’s medal.       

What started out as a simple game of chance, a minor gamble if you will, has paid off big time. Early 2009, Valee and I were planning to celebrate our 10^th wedding anniversary in New York. We decided to do it in November so I can also celebrate my big ‘four-oh’ in style. Two of my very good friends (and bros), Jam Mariquit & Jay Tambunting, were joining the 40^th running of the NYC Marathon around the same time and the suggestion for me to run with them was hatched. I had been running for about a year but never going beyond 5kms (or roughly 3 miles). Running a full marathon (42.195 kilometers) was just not in my to-do-before-I-die list. Or so I thought.       

To join the run, one had to participate in a lottery. What the heck, I had nothing to lose. I thought back then that I probably wouldn’t get chosen anyway. My application was sent second week of April. A month later, the running gods would smile upon me and I was accepted. Out of the 58 applicants from the Philippines, 52 were accepted. I dreaded getting the congratulatory email, but welcomed the challenge (I had no choice!) set before me. First order of business, find a running coach and commence training.       

The Preparation       

What followed were weeks of active training, doing drills, perfecting my form, strengthening the core, building endurance and participating in organized runs. Twice a week, I would don my running shoes and head off to the track in ULTRA or the perimeter of High Street. Investments were made on gear and supplements. New friends were won in the running community. Sundays were reserved for long runs around the Fort and the villages straddling it. There are days I just wanted to give up and get a massage instead but the discipline was slowly growing within me and I started looking forward to pushing my physical boundaries. One perk was the continued weight loss despite the endless binges. For the most part, getting started was more than half the battle and looking back, I can honestly say that those days spent in training gave me great joy.       

Pre-race ‘Jitters’       

Four and a half months later (and more than 10 pounds lighter), I was filled with so much hope going into New York that I can finish this race. I had never done the full distance during training and the farthest ‘long run’ I have done was 32kms. But I knew I was ready. I had a week to overcome jet lag and acclimatize. It was just too cold in NY and I got tired of converting Fahrenheit to Celsius watching the weather forecasts. Bottom-line, we runners from warm, sunny Manila would be freezing our asses off come race day. One pre-race highlight was the Expo. It was like Disneyland for runners. A mecca for fun-runners, weekend warriors and sub-elite runners alike. Anything and everything related to running was there. If you couldn’t find it in the Expo, it probably doesn’t exist. After claiming my race kit and getting a souvenir shirt, I was ready for one last condition run prior to the marathon. Central Park beckoned.       

Running ‘Saints’ From All Nations       

The night before the run, we attended the Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral. It was packed. My guess was that a lot of the would-be-marathoners were there with their friends and families. The priest’s sermon centered on the celebration of All Saints’ Day and he talked about how in the book of revelation, 144,000 saints from all corners of the world would converge and stand with Jesus. We had runners from all corners of the world in attendance and it was more than enough reason to celebrate. A special blessing before the run would be nice, I thought to myself.       

The wish would be granted as the priest called on all the runners to come to the sanctuary for the final blessing. People started to flood the aisles and it didn’t take long before the altar was crowded with runners in every shape and form. It gave me goose bumps as I imagined myself in medieval times gathering with other soldiers before the bishop for a final sprinkling of holy water prior to going into battle. Reality was way better so I snapped out of my fantasy and marveled at the moment unfolding before my eyes. Then as a final word, the priest cited my guiding verse from the second book of Timothy. Wow.       

Race Day       

It would be an early start at 5:30 as we boarded the bus that would bring us to the starting line. We had a few hours more before gun start so after coffee and a bagel, it was time to find our spot inside the runners’ tent and catch a nap. We would then share stories with other runners as we waited for the call to proceed to the designated corral. As expected, it was freezing and the wind chill added to the ‘suffering’. Excitement was building and before we knew it, the starting gun (or cannon more like it) signaled the start of the first wave of runners… then the second wave… and finally, our group, the third and final wave.       

Enjoying It

The run was just surreal. Going through the five boroughs of NY with thousands of other runners and thousands more on the sidelines cheering you on, it was simply thrilling. My end-goal was simple; to finish the race. This was broken down further into bite-sized strategies so I don’t feel overwhelmed;        

1. Dedicate the first 10 kilometers to my wife, Valee – something that proved relatively simple and joyful as I savored and loved the experience. A lot like our ten years’ worth of togetherness and married bliss.
2. Dedicate kilometers 11 to 20 to Raine, our 8 year old daughter – again quite enjoyable with moments of minor discomfort as my muscles started to show signs of tiring. She’s a good kid, I thought to myself and as my muscles strained, I recalled the challenges Valee and I went through as first time parents.
3. Dedicate kilometers 21 – 30 to our 14 month old son, Raco – whew, this is the part where things started getting complicated (perhaps a preview of things to come with my energetic and strong-willed boy?). Call of nature, fatigue, wind chill, cramps in my upper thighs and side stitches. This can’t be happening to me. I had barely gone past the halfway point. Luckily, Valee was waiting just after the 27km mark and she was a sight for sore eyes (and aching muscles!). After giving her a kiss, I get a boost and I was off to the last stage.
4. Final 12 kilometers would be my run time with God – I whispered, “Lord, this is it, just You and me”. I was certain He’d bring me home, but this turned out to be the most difficult portion of the run. Constant cramps in my thighs, bloating from too much fluid intake, my body salt depleted, and exhaustion creeping in. Every mile marker seemed farther and farther away. Walk, run, stop, stretch, run, walk, stop, stretch… Are we there yet?!!

Entering Central Park

And then finally, it was over…       

Running the Race       

The back of my race shirt bore the text from 2 Timothy 4 verse 7, “I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.”. Runners behind me may have read the verse but all I needed was one (out of the more than forty two thousand who participated) to acknowledge it and my goal to be His messenger would be complete. A young lady came from behind and ran alongside of me and uttered four simple words, “I like your shirt.”. I smiled at her. Mission accomplished.       

From what I observed, people who joined the marathon ran for different reasons. Some dedicated the run to departed loved ones while others to promote or support a cause. There were those who came in silly costumes and those who proudly wore the colors of their country’s flag. I also saw men and women who conquered their disabilities and to them goes my utmost admiration. As for myself, the actual run was the crowning glory to the weeks and months of preparation I had committed to realizing this goal. It was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life and it wouldn’t have been possible had it not been for;          

-          the torment of bringing my heart close to bursting during speed workouts         

-          the difficulty of waking up ridiculously early on Sunday mornings         

-          the misery of going up the flight of steps when I do stairs training         

-          the agony of the last crunch doing sit-ups for my core         

-          the exhaustion and dehydration while doing long runs    

But it wasn’t all pain and suffering. I could always count on my loving wife and supportive family and friends to provide the encouragement and cheer. There were others who trained with me and helped make the experience lighter. There was also a coach who gave me guidance and pushed me when I doubted myself. The pre and post run carbo-loads were always a treat. The physical transformation and the feeling of being healthy were just priceless.      

Twelve months ago, the notion of finishing a marathon would have been unthinkable. And I can’t help but reflect on this Christian journey I find myself on with the goal of reaching heaven as my finish line. I realize now that God has set for me a mission that is not impossible. But there is a need to prepare and train hard for it; to love people in our lives with all our heart, to make sacrifices when things seem to go beyond our control, to look up to Him and persevere as difficulties challenge us, to be prepared to get hurt for reasons we may not immediately understand, to carry on in times of spiritual dryness and to fix our eyes on the reward that awaits those who choose to run the race.      

At the Finish

I feel immense happiness in having been able to finish this marathon. Imagine the great joy in store for those who finish HIS …

Race Review: Timex Run

I have to admit that we (me and my wife) had second thoughts in joining this race, primarily because of the expensive registration fee. But the 21K race distance, being my favorite now, enticed me to join. My wife, on the other hand, didn’t need much convincing when she learned that Piolo Pascual would also be running the 10K (Thank you Piolo!).

Was it worth it? A definite and resounding YES! Here’s why:

THE HIGHS

Race started early and on time. The early race start was perfect for the weather we have now – sun is usually shining about 6 am and it’s usually hot and humid.

Adequate hydration stations with abundant supply. First, water and 100Plus sports drinks were properly segregated. Second, queuing was prevented because long tables were used and were accessible from both sides (especially the stations along Buendia).

Finisher’s medals for 21K runners. It really is a motivating reward for any runner to receive a finisher’s medal. Just 1 tiny bit of request – I hope that the race event and distance were also embedded in the medal (I don’t mind the RunRio logo, but I wish the name and distance of the race event were also visible – like the medals at QCIM).

Organized distribution of goodies/freebies. There were separate tents for the distribution of loot bags and free drinks – one each for 3K, 5K, 10K and 21K. This really lessened, if not eliminated, the long lines. In previous races, I sometimes don’t bother getting the goodies/freebies because of the long lines. This time, I was able to stay around longer and enjoy the post-race festivities.

Lots of goodies/freebies after the race. Upon finishing, I was given a towel. Then, the loot bag contained the following – RunRio finisher’s dri-fit shirt, 100Plus, bottled water and Nature Valley bar.

Quick release of official race times. Results were released within 24 hours.

Other positives: Animated race map before gun start (bigger screen next time?), Many Portalets, Use of Timing Chips, Presence of marshals, Directional signs and KM markers and Bananas for 21K runners.

THE LOWS

I couldn’t really think of anything major.

MY 21K RUN: STRIKE THREE

Oh no, not again?! Cramps at KM 18! Crap!

Just to refresh: QCIM 21K – cramps at KM 20. Adidas KOTR – cramps at KM 18.

This time around though, I have to admit that this was due to my own doing. It was an accident waiting to happen. It was a very busy Nov. 9-15 week that I had very little time to train – a very lethargic 12K and 8K runs on Wednesday and Friday respectively. More than the long work hours, it was the feeling of being tired and stressed that left me sluggish during those practice runs.

Most painful cramps

It was, perhaps, the most painful cramps I had ever experienced. It felt like my knees and ankles were being twisted. Furthermore, my thighs and calves were as hard as cement.

It started again with my right hamstring all the way down to the calf muscle. Then, at KM 19, my right thigh and calf followed. I had to walk, stop and stretch. It got a little better, but it just won’t go away. The walking and stretching breaks became longer. I was actually doing some intervals – but not the kind of intervals one should be doing: run, then walk & stretch…run, then walk & stretch.  Running continuously became unsustainable. It was embarrassing but it was the only way to relieve the pain.

Missed goals

Unfortunately, I failed to accomplish the goals I had set for this race. Considering the nature of the race route (lots of uphills), I had set 2 ‘conditional’ goals. First, encouraged by my KOTR time, I wanted to try for a sub-2h finish. If that fails, the second goal was to finish within 2h 10m.

But when I started having walking breaks and when the pain became intolerable, I knew that the impromptu goal was just to finish. I conceded that this wasn’t my day, this wasn’t my week. Having said all that, I am still very happy with my official finish time of 2h 11m 36s (chip time: 2h 10m 52s). I am very fortunate and thankful to have finished with a good and encouraging time. I am humbled yet again by this experience and I vow to address this perennial cramps problem.

OVERALL RATING

I’ll be using a scale of 1 to 5 defined as: 1-Poor, 2-Fair, 3-Good, 4-Very Good, 5-Excellent.

I would rate this run event as a 4.5/5 – Almost Excellent. (Well, if my wife and cousin were able to have their pictures taken with Piolo, then it would have been a perfect 5. Haha!)

Kidding aside, it was a very organized and festive race. I remember reading the The Bullrunner’s blog about the last call for the 2010 Condura Run wishes. It seems that Coach Rio translated a lot of those wishes into reality.

Congratulations to Coach Rio and to all his hardworking coaches and staff. There have been successive sub-par races and you broke that negative trend. May you sustain the momentum and continue to improve. Thank you and good luck!

My Back-to-Back 21K Weekends

At long last, I finally have a 21K tucked under my belt. And the past 2 weekends gave me the opportunity to run back-to-back 21Ks – the Quezon City International Marathon (QCIM) and the 2009 Adidas King of the Road (KOTR). I had planned to run my first 21K at the 2009 Condura Run, but dengue kept me out of it. I rued that missed opportunity last March – all the training and all the mileage being flushed down the drain. I vowed to come back and run a 21K before this year ends. It took a long time coming but it was well worth the wait.

At first, the plan was to run my first 21K at the Adidas KOTR. But as my training positively progressed, my mind started entertaining thoughts of doing it at QCIM. It got me excited, but at the same time, I was proceeding with caution – two injuries in 1 year of running can really alter the decision-making process. So many what ifs in my mind – What if I get injured? What if it’s too early? What if I don’t finish?

Then, my sister gave me a great idea – that is, run 21K at an easy, comfortable pace at QCIM and use that as a benchmark for the Adidas KOTR. It was a great plan that convinced me to sign-up for my first 21K at QCIM…and my first back-to-back 21K at Adidas KOTR the week after.

QUEZON CITY INTERNATIONAL MARATON (QCIM)

Running at the QCIM proved to be the perfect event to jump-start my foray into the 21K distance. It was one of the most anticipated races in October. It had the hype and the buzz, not to mention the “international” standing. It also offered a new route along the usually busy Commonwealth Avenue, La Mesa Eco Park and North Avenue.

My 21K QCIM Run

I felt no pressure. I was very, very excited. I had a good night’s sleep and woke up as the cell phone alarm rang (it has been a habit of mine to press the snooze button and sleep some more). I arrived at the venue around 4:30 am and was able to park easily at the QC City Hall. With the gun start still 30 minutes away, I casually walked towards the start area, went to the portalets, warmed-up and stretched for about 10 minutes.

The goal was simple – finish the race. But I still wanted to “relatively” push myself so I’ll know my limits – not too fast and not too slow. Fortunately, there were designated pacers. I saw yellow balloons with the desired finish times. Right there and then, I did a quick math on what could be an achievable finish time – I thought of my 15K time at the Rota Run and I calculated various pace times. A sub-2 hour time was unrealistic. As such, I saw 2 possible finish times – 2h 15m or 2h 30m. I approached the guy who had the 2h 15m finish time and asked the pace he’ll be running. He said it’ll be around 6:43/km and I quickly decided to run with his pace. (In our brief conversation, I learned that he’s Patrick or vVinceth in Takbo.ph; We work in the same company, but in different divisions; When I got home, I also found out we’re friends in Facebook; Small world indeed!)

The run started on time in the midst of loud and motivating cheers – the perfect atmosphere on an early, dark and chilly morning. I got held back by the influx of runners weaving through the traffic. As the road started to clear, I looked around and caught up with Patrick’s pace group.

I religiously followed the pace set by Patrick. There were times when we were running faster, especially on a downhill but it was manageable. I did not pay much attention to the distance we were covering. I was having a great time and a great run. It was fun running at a new route – perhaps the only time you’ll see Commonwealth Avenue devoid of cars and traffic. Plus, we were all entertained by the drumbeat of cheers and encouragement that created a party and lively atmosphere.

Passing the 15K Mark

As we passed by the 15K marker, it was unchartered territory. I smiled and got more excited. Down to the last 6K. I was not tired; I felt strong. It was only a matter of time. All I had to do was to stay with the pace and drink fluids to keep myself hydrated. As we chip away from the last 6K, it was all going along just fine – or so I thought!

Last 1K

The last 1K provided a bit of a drama in my otherwise casual and straightforward run. Suddenly, I felt some tightening in my right hamstring. Then, as we made a u-turn along North Avenue leading to TriNoMa, I felt something brewing on my right hamstring down to my right calf – CRAMPS. I immediately drank half of the Gatorade that I brought along (By this time, I still had 2 flasks left from my hydration belt – I used the Nathan 4-flask hydration belt for this race – 1 flask with Gatorade and the other flask with water). I told Patrick that they can go ahead as I needed to slow down to mitigate the possibility of having full-blown cramps.

Slowing down made my hamstrings loosen up a bit. With renewed confidence, I caught up with the 2:15 pace group inside TriNoMa grounds. As we turned right to North Avenue, Patrick said that we are behind the finish time of 2h 15m. He asked if we can increase the pace to about 5:45 to 6:00. At first I was hesitant – I was fearful of cramps. Then again, it was down to the last 700 meters or so. What else can go wrong? I agreed and followed him. I still had enough energy when we increased the pace. Fortunately, my right leg was cooperating.

Then, as we turned right to QC Circle, cramps finally kicked-in. Ironically, it happened on my left calf. With about 200 meters to go, I slowed down and thanked Patrick for all the help and encouragement.

The Finish

With cramps slowing me down, the last 200 meters seemed like another 1K. But my eye was already on the finish line. I told myself – “I dare not walk now!” And there it was – after 2h, 17m I crossed the finish line with a throng of people cheering and congratulating every finisher. Finally, I told myself, finally! A plethora of emotions filled me as I crossed the finish line – I was very happy, I was overwhelmed, I was on a high, I was filled with a great sense of accomplishment.

I walked around and thanked Patrick again for helping me accomplish my goal. It was a one-a-kind experience to be able to run with a pacer. He surely kept me focused all throughout the race and encouraged me to run around the cramps I experienced.

ADIDAS KING OF THE ROAD (KOTR) 2009

After finishing at QCIM, my focus shifted to the Adidas King of the Road (KOTR) 2009 – my second 21K. This year’s KOTR featured races for 5K, 10K and 21K with awesome yellow singlets. It also marked the 10K debut of my wife and brother, as well as the 5K debut of my sister and cousin. We were all looking forward to this run. In fact, we were the first 5 registrants at Adidas Podium as soon as registration started. Talk about being excited!

Drama at the KOTR Claiming Process

The race kit claiming process provided a lot of drama a week before the race. On Oct. 17-18, KOTR registered runners had to troop to SM Megatrade Hall 2 to claim their race kits and to participate at the Adidas Running Expo.

However, those who claimed their kits on Oct. 17 had a rough experience (rough being an understatement). The troubles have been well-documented – very long lines, very long waiting time, unavailable kits, wrong singlet sizes, insufficient food and a lackluster expo just to name a few.

If you logged-in at Takbo.ph during that time, you’d find deluge of comments on this particular topic. In fact, it generated one of the highest number of comments for a particular topic. Furthermore, I also noticed that the “Adidas Running Philippines” facebook page was inaccessible later in the afternoon. Runners were looking for answers and none were given.

As I read through each comment, each story, each ordeal, I was surprised at how it all progressed from bad to worse to worst. This is Adidas, I told myself! How could this happen? I can only sympathize to all runners who went through the hassle and inconvenience.

It was a complete turnaround the following day, Oct. 18 – a complete opposite! I already prepared myself for long lines and long waiting times. I did not even expect to partake of carbo-loaded food – I just wanted to claim the race kits. We (me, my brother & sister) arrived at 5:00 pm. To our surprise, there were no long lines. It was already our turn when we arrived at the booth. Then, we were able to claim the chicken steak by KFC. We were surely lucky!

A few days after, Adidas and Mr. Rudy Biscocho of RACE, posted a letter of apology. Then, their facebook page was re-activated.

My 21K Adidas KOTR Run

Like the QCIM weekend, I was very excited. The goal now was to improve on the 2h 17m time. The KOTR course was more challenging in terms of the many uphills, particularly Kalayaan flyover and Bayani Road. My mindset was to increase the pace in the flat roads and taper off for every uphill run. It has worked before and I was confident it would work again.

This time around, I did not get the chance to warm-up. We did not arrive early enough for me to do some warm-ups. As such, I just stretched for about 5 minutes while waiting for the race to start.

A few more minutes passed and off we go at exactly 5:30 am. I ran slowly content to let other runners pass me as I wanted to warm-up first. I picked up the pace upon turning right to Rizal Drive as I would eventually taper off approaching the ascend to Kalayaan flyover. After that first uphill run, I increased my pace along the flat roads of Kalayaan.

The downhill run exiting Kalayaan provided a very good momentum in my run along the flat roads of Buendia. This is where my race officially began – I made up for lost time and I ran at a consistent and moderate pace. I made sure to take advantage of this long, flat road. I figured it would be more difficult once we’re back at the Fort Bonifacio area. I was feeling very good and strong. I was focused. I was in ‘game-face’ mode (which was ironic considering what I had written in my blank bib – “Why So Serious? Smile…Have Fun”).

As I was heading back, I was welcomed by some of my friends who joined the 10K category. We exchanged high-fives and they also encouraged me to just go on and continue. It was a great feeling to receive motivating cheers. It also happened at a very good time as I was approaching the dreaded uphill to Kalayaan flyover – a long and steep uphill run that leads us back to Fort Bonifacio. As I saw other runners walk in that uphill portion, I just kept my head up, leaned forward and maintained short strides.

I felt relieved after that section of the flyover. It took me a while to shake off the heaviness from that uphill run. As soon as I felt okay, I began to increase my pace again. I was mindful of the fact that once we reach 5^th avenue and Bayani Road, it would be quite a struggle – lots of uphills with the heat beginning to be a factor.

Once I turned right to 5^th avenue, it was now a conscious effort to stay with the plan and with the course – taper off in an uphill run and ‘attack’ on the few flat roads along Lawton Avenue and Bayani Road. It was all going very well, until tragedy struck for a second time.

18K Mark

Guess what? It was CRAMPS again – starting with the right hamstring! This time, it came earlier at the 18K mark. At first it was manageable but I had to consciously manage the way I ran. I welcomed and enjoyed every downhill run as it enabled me to rest my legs. At the same time, I despised every uphill run as it triggered the cramps. I was very frustrated. How could it happen again?!

From this point on, I had to drastically reduce my pace. I was trying my best to shake it off and hope that it’ll just go away. There were times when it was getting better, but it was quite painful most of the time. I still resisted the urge to walk. I just maintained a slow pace the rest of way.

This I can say – the last 3K was the longest 3K I had to run. It was another humbling experience like the one I had at the Men’s Health 15K All-Terrain race where I walked for the last 2 kilometers. The mind was willing but the legs were not. It was a test of mental toughness.

I had a sigh of relief when I made it through 26^th Avenue (near Fort Strip). Only a few meters left to the finish line. Then, I had the surprise of my life on the final turn at 28^th street leading to the finish. My eyes were focused at the finish line looking for the time for 21K. At first, I did not know where to look. But when the marshal directed me towards my lane, I had a wide smile on my face. It erased all the frustration and sadness I felt for the last 3 kilometers. I finished and I improved with a time of about 2h 1m. I was very happy. Deep inside, I was cheering. I looked up and thanked God (During the last 2 kilometers, I prayed and asked for strength to finish). Not only did he let me finish, but he also rewarded me with the gift of confidence.

Race Review: RotaRun 09

We were all back to the dreaded and treacherous McKinley Hill route as the Rota Run 2009 was held there yesterday morning. This is one of my favorite race routes, no matter how daunting it can be. It also marked the first race that Takbo.ph managed and facilitated. Let’s now see how the race went.

THE HIGHS

Race started on time. As mentioned in my previous race review (eco dash), I always prefer that races start on time. This way, runners can calculate the time they need to warm-up and go to the starting line.

Adequate aid stations with abundant supply. I like the part where there are people handing out water and Vitwater to runners. This way, one does not have to completely walk or stop to get fluids. This also lessens the queuing at the aid stations. (Although, after reading Baldrunner’s blog about hydration stations, I have to recommend to organizers that they should have longer tables)

Safety and the presence of marshals. What more can you say if you see military people stationed at different sections of the route? I felt as if I had a bodyguard.

Presence of directional markers. One would not get lost due to the presence and visibility of directional markers telling runners whether to go straight, turn right or turn left. Plus, you have marshals ensuring that you go to the right direction.

McKinley Hill. The hills…those barbaric McKinley hills! One year of running and I still don’t have an answer to these hills. But I do enjoy running at McKinley and I make it a point to join races if it passes through McKinley.

Nice singlets. It may not be as good as the Kenny’s Urbanite singlets but it still has a great and comfortable feel.

Value for money. Nowadays, seldom do we see registration fees below Php 300. This is value for money at its best. For Php 200, you get a nice singlet, medals for 21K finishers, some freebies from sponsors and get to run in a safe, scenic and enjoyable race.

THE LOWS

No KM markers. I hope that KM markers become a standard during races. Runners without the aid of Garmins or Polars rely on the KM markers.

Not a 21K. Runners with Garmin watches have it at 18K. The 3K difference is really big, especially for those aiming for a PR or for those training for a full marathon. At the moment, I also don’t know the reason behind the distance disparity. We can only hope that there is an explanation for this.

Robbery at McKinley Parking. This is really a very unfortunate incident. We can only hope that the McKinley administration improve their surveillance and security procedures. And dare I say that the Php 50 parking fee is too much for – what – a short 2-3 hour stay? Yeah, Php 50 seems small but you don’t get value from their end. Put CCTV cameras there and beef up security and then we can agree that the Php 50 fee is reasonable (For example, SM megamall and MOA have those sensors to direct you where to park – red means a car is parked and green means you can park there. Plus, you see 2-3 security guards who tirelessly roam around using their motorbikes. Now, that’s a “sulit” Php 50 parking!)

MY 15K RUN

No doubt, this was a better 15K run than at Kenny’s in terms of time and overall experience. In fact, my only goal for the race was to eclipse the 1h 38m (chip time) I had set at Kenny’s.

For the first time in a long while, we arrived early. Got a good parking (2^nd floor) and walked leisurely to the race grounds. I’ve had so many close calls where I thought I’d be late for a race. But not on this Rota Run morning (partly because I knew that parking would be difficult).

So, for a change, I had the chance to do some warm-ups and stretching. I did around 3 sets of sprints after a comfortable jog. I lined up at the start-finish area with around 5 minutes to spare.

My plan for this race is to take it easy while in McKinley and take advantage of the flat roads along Lawton Ave. I knew that I lacked hill training and pushing hard in the beginning would be stubborn on my part.

The race started on time and, immediately, we were greeted by a mild uphill run. I followed my plan and navigated the uphills slowly but easily. I let the momentum from the downhills carry over and use the added speed to run faster on the few flat roads of McKinley. Approaching Blue Leaf I slowed down again for the final long uphill leading to Lawton Ave.

It was like heaven at Lawton Ave. Finally, no more uphills! This is where I picked up the pace and made up for lost time. It was the first time for me to run almost the entire length of Lawton Ave, with the u-turn at gate 3. In previous races, the direction is usually to turn left at Bayani Road. It was pretty straightforward (some uphills, some downhills, some flats) along Bayani Road leading to the U-turn outside Heritage Park.

After the final ascend at Bayani Rd.-Lawton Ave. intersection, I felt that I still had some energy left. With 1 final sip of Gatorade from my hydration bottle, I ran faster towards McKinley. And as I used the momentum for the final downhill run, I sprinted to the finish line.

And as I was sprinting to the finish, I was carefully looking at my time at above the finish line. I really wanted to know if I eclipsed my Kenny’s time. Lo and behold, I was surprised and very happy to see that my official time was 1h 22m 30s, a new PR for me for the 15K distance. Wow! This is a great bonus for me…something to boost my confidence that I’m progressing with my training, that I’m on the right track for my first 21K at QCIM and that I am on the way to making a full recovery from injuries.

OVERALL RATING

I’ll be using a scale of 1 to 5 defined as: 1-Poor, 2-Fair, 3-Good, 4-Very Good, 5-Excellent.

I would rate this run event as a 3.5/5 – Almost Very Good.

On a somehow short notice, Takbo.ph and Ian Alacar did a good job on getting this event together. Congratulations to the race organizers for a good job. With all your hard work and dedication to the running community, I am inspired and motivated to contribute on my own and, if possible, try to volunteer for the next Takbo.ph-organized run event.