_planet_trumania

Epic Relay: My Powerpuff Experience

2010-06-14T13:59:00.000+08:00

Congratulations to Team Powerpuff Boys for bagging 2nd place in this race where the team was an EPIC SUCCESS in this seemingly EPIC FAIL race contributed by its organizers, Extribe & Chris Sports.

I witnessed everyone in the team do their best in this race and I'm just so very proud to have been part of this team in the race. Thank you so much to my teammates, our star-studded support crew, Takbo.ph supporters (esp. Tere, Jinoe, & Que for their donations)!

Here's my experience copied from the Takbo.ph forum:

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I was also the driver of Van 1 and I've been out of serious training for quite some time, so I assigned myself the team's easiest legs.

Leg #5: Near Anvaya Cove entrance to Pawikan Center (~10K)

My leg started early afternoon with the full heat of the sun over my head. There weren't so many trees around and I wanted to stay on the side of the road going with the flow of traffic. My first 2.5K was at 4:20/km with the downhill portion as I wanted to catch up with the Timex runner who went ahead by about 5 minutes before me. Eventually, I had to slow down and walk at some portions after passing by Morong town proper. The heat was unbearable at that point. My support team (Roy, Eire, Beep, Mulder, & Brando) waited for me at the 6K point and were a bit worried. Upon seeing Pawikan center, I began to run at a faster pace again and sprinted in the last 100m. Happy that my hardest leg it was over. My Garmin pace was 6:04/km, finished in 1:01.

After that freakin' hot run with bro, Eire & Totoy (photo c/o Brando)

Leg #15: Bataan Nuclear Power Plant entrance to Pawikan Center (~4K)

This was between 10-11pm, if I'm not mistaken. After Brando's super finish going up to the entrance of the power plant, my job was to go downhill to Pawikan Center. As soon as I was given the go signal, I didn't waste any time to run...in the pitch black road with a small LED light on my head. I didn't wait for the van to illuminate my path. Within my 1st km, I was running fast in the dark and it reminded me of Blairwitch Project as most of the scenes were in total darkness with only a camera spotlight showing the way. I admit, it WAS scary, but I didn't care since I wanted to focus on running. This was probably the easiest leg in the race because it was 90% downhill and I think I did it with a constant 4:30/km pace. I also decided not to wear my Garmin this time so that I could focus more. My sprint to the finish was a mixture of relief and anger (at another team). I won't elaborate.

Leg #25: San Felipe, Zambales to Mayo Farm (~3K)

This was already between 7-8am, with the sun up and the whole team facing sleep deprivation. The leg was just a flat 3km so I said to myself I should also run fast non-stop. Before my leg started, I was really very sleepy already since I was awake all the time to light the path of my teammates during their legs. As with my 1st 2 legs, I sprinted the last 200m with anger, but was more happy since the whole team was there to cheer me on at the last vehicle exchange point. No Garmin also. I think my pace there was 4:30/km or a bit faster.

After going through this race, I said to myself that I won't go into an ultramarathon. :P hahaha Main lesson: need for heat training.

Epic Relay: Two Days to Go...

2010-06-10T10:22:00.000+08:00

What you're going to miss if you didn't register....

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Experience an epic adventure!

· Run your leg assignments! Our start and finish line is the Lighthouse Marina Resort in Subic!

· All finishers bring home a medal!

· All finishers bring home loot!

· Champions bring home the Team Trophy!

· Champions bring home PRIZES!

· All participants ( official team line up) are invited to the AFTER RACE PARTY for the Awarding Rites and buffet! Concert by JAM 88.3!

PhilAm Life will insure each and every one of you running the course from June 12 to 13!

Special Prizes Await All the Teams :

· Best in Team Uniform

· Best in Vehicle Dress Up

· Best Team Name

· Rudy Project will award 10 sunglasses to the most TECHNICALLY COOL team. This team is functional, whose abilities have made them dynamic as a team, innovative, and they never lose their "cool".

· ZEN Health magazine will award to the Best Spirited Team, who, despite not winning, remain in their best spirits and proud to compete as a team: 10 gift packs which includes wellness products and magazines.

· Ponstan Bilis Sakto Team will award winners for the Categories: All Men, All Women, Mixed, Ultra

· Pharmaton: Most Valuable Player Award

· Scholl will award the team that exudes “GREAT FEET FEELING”. Despite the challenge, distance and impact on their feet, this team has shown a happy disposition all throughout. That’s 10 special gift packs with various Scholl products.

· Salonpas will award the team that exemplifies resilience to pain. This team outperformed the others by showing them that no aches or pain can keep them from winning. That’s 10 special gift packs with Salonpas products and premium items

· Blistex will be awarding the team that can flash us the best smile before, during and after the relay. Like Blistex properties, this team kept themselves well hydrated and protected from harsh elements such as the sun and chilling breeze at night. This is why this team can manage to give us the best smile. That’s 10 special gift packs with different variants and a premium item.

Our sponsors would like you to have: (get these by team check in)

· 100 Plus and Summit Water for additional hydration

· Hammer Nutrition

Other great things happening at the grounds:

· Sampling by our sponsors

· Free! Shower anytime by Head & Shoulders and Safeguard

· Free! Lip pampering by Blistex

· Free! Foot spa by Scholl

· Free! Massage by Salonpas

· Free! Shoe Cleaning by Clean Shine Master

· Free! Surfing by PLDT ( Speedster Bus)

Shop! Shop! Shop!

· EPIC RELAY Race Merchs!! T shirts (Php 360), Cateye Slap Wraps (Php 120)***

· Apparel, sports accessories, sunglasses, Smart load, cold drinks and more!

Team Powerpuff Boys Singlet

2010-05-24T16:36:00.001+08:00

Good luck to Team Powerpuff Boys & support for the Chris Sports Epic Relay 250. :)

Adidas Katipunan Sale 40% Off

2010-05-11T09:22:00.000+08:00

Saw this last Saturday... a lot of running & cleat shoes (for Ultimate players). :)

40% OFF ON ALL ITEMS!!! :D

Epic Relay Registration Now Open!

2010-04-30T19:15:00.001+08:00

Registration to the Chris Sports Epic Relay is now open! :D

Here are the following documents that I received from Arleen Lindo of Chris Sports:

   Registration Steps
   Registration Form A1 - Team Registration Form
   Registration Form A2 - Individual Registration Form
   Race Bible - showing rules and maps of the 30 legs! :D

For any questions, contact Chris Sports Epic Relay Help Desk at (02) 438-9021 or Chris Sports Marketing at (02) 788-2916.

San Mig Coffee: Different Coffee for Different Runners

2010-04-23T23:05:00.002+08:00

C'mon! Go ahead! Have your fill of pork sisig at Congo Grill in El Pueblo. After all, you're a runner and there's a new brew in town to help you stay healthy (with of course, your usual dose of regular exercise & a balanced diet).

San Mig Coffee introduced 4 new variants of their popular branded instant coffee starting with:

1) San Mig Coffee Pro-Beauty

Just one sip and it'll make the person beside you go bonkers...right, GBM?

2) San Mig Coffee Pro-Fiber

For the serious eaters, I mean, bloggers like Roselle & Coach Poj.

3) San Mig Coffee Pro-Slim

How Takbo.ph peeps are after running and...drinking it...as hydration! Endorsed by Rod! :D

4) San Mig Coffee Pro-Power

To unleash the 'hyper' in you like Timmy! "Sarap ng food, da best things in life are truly libre!"

Ahem, serious na nga.

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San Mig Coffee Bay Run Dash for Health 2010
May 23, 2010
San Miguel By The Bay, SM Mall of Asia Grounds
Assembly time: 5:00am

DISTANCE - REG. FEE - GUN START
3K - P450 - 5:55am
5K - P450 - 5:50am
10K - P550 - 5:45am
15K - P550 - 5:30am

Registration sites:

Chris Sports outlets at Festival Mall, SM MOA, Glorietta, SM Annex, SM Megamall

ROX (May 5 to May 19 only)

Over the phone c/o WWWExpress at 795-1777 (press 2) or 852-7210

Singlet produced by Universidad (I like!)

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Pwede bang makalimutan ang class pic (anti-GBM smile version)?!? More here.

Taking it Easy & Slow: 1st Year of Running

2010-04-19T20:03:00.000+08:00

April 19, 2009 - Greenfield City Run, Sta. Rosa, Laguna
A 'struggling' 5K in 53:38

April 18, 2010 - Earth Run, Fort Bonifacio
A painful 21K in 2:04

I've logged a total of 1,631km from exactly 1 year ago when my eyes, and feet, were opened to running. That includes easy runs, LSDs, races, trails, and a number of tempos/speedwork intervals. PRs that would show how I've learned a little already with much more room for improvement.

My last run at the Earth Run was supposed to be a 23km long run at 5:54/km based on my training, so I registered for the 21K and planned on going for an additional 2K right after the race.

I wore the Greenfield City Run singlet just to commemorate my running anniversary on my own with the run.

With Takbo.ph peeps. Thanks to Carlo for the pic.

However, just before 3km, my left knee started to act up. It was a nagging pain on the outer side (ITBS?) and it would be more painful in uphills. I was ready to face DNF at that moment, but I tried. I tried my best. A few Takbo.ph peeps saw me stop at different portions of the Kalayaan flyover and I was really touched when even Pat Concepcion (one of my running idols), showed his concern when he saw me stretching my knee. I carried on and followed him, getting more inspiration. I caught up with Sam and found out that even he had a problem with his ITB. I still managed to finish the race, but didn't run the additional 2km anymore because of the pain.

Two lessons I got from this experience:

1) Take it Easy...with my physical activities. Running & Ultimate isn't a good combination, so I'd rather take it easy with the latter. Play less, and just be happy with throws & drills for now.

2) Take it Slow. I still have the rest of my life to run, so I don't have to rush into training too much to make & break PRs. This is just 1 year out of much more to come. I'll be more patient.

Mizuno Infinity Run: Winners all!

2010-04-11T14:06:00.003+08:00

Photo c/o Ronnel Go in this album

What makes the Mizuno theme different from other races is the challenge for everyone to never settle, do better, run faster (100%), finish stronger, and be a winner.

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If I were to think about the Mizuno Infinity Run after some time, I would recall a lot of winners in this year's race. Some hitting new PRs while others reaching their own goals.

In no particular order...

Brando Losaria - first time to race 15K and finished strong with 1:12. I'm really inspired with this guy, who was also a big weight loser turned fast runner.

Marvin Opulencia - sub-24 in a 5K is definitely an amazing feat for this fellow Mizuno Run Club student (and now in Ultimate).

Carly Dizon - despite her sore quads from their Mt. Maculot hike, she still managed to hit 56 minutes...and bag the 4th Most Improved Award.

Vic Viola - cutting his previous 15K PR by 24 minutes in finishing 1:24! Wow, dude!

Jet Paiso - Mr. BLC 1st runner-up showing how both weight loss and training can improve speed. 5K in 28 minutes! :)

Pio Sugay - 2nd place in the Most Improved Award, 5K! 21 minutes from 40+ in 5K is hellish.

Julie Reyes - a goal of not walking during a 15K race is definitely not an easy task (I confess I even walked a bit during that race). Here's to you, hotlegs!

Jairuz Agang-ang - winner in his age category in 15K!

Eire Daproza - for her winning voice in the "Mizuno Lamang" ad...that eventually led to me winning in the Best Blog Award! :D

TEAM TAKBO.PH #1 in the Mizuno Run Club for sweeping the blog awards...

Timmy Kenkoy - Most Creative Blog Award. Most patient also in waiting for the awardees to be announced. Congrats, pre.

Sam Running Ninja - double Suunto watch winner! :P hahaha Most Informative Blog Award. Still a fast pace despite recently recovering from your injury.

...and, of course...

Takbo.ph - Biggest Delegation Award. I'm not surprised. Here's to the biggest Filipino Running Community! Big plaque plus P10,000 gift certificate.

I'm sure I missed a lot of other peeps who managed to beat their own times in this race. Feel free to share your winning moment.

Congratulations to everyone who finished this race! More happy thoughts for everyone! :)

Torn between Running & Ultimate?

2010-04-10T12:44:00.000+08:00

Source: http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=dpvard&s=3

This long weekend's about to become a hectic one for me. I signed up for the QC Heads Up Ultimate Open and will be starting with the clinic this afternoon at the Ateneo HS field, 2-6pm.

On the other hand, I have a big race tomorrow with the Mizuno Infinity Run where I'll be aiming for 1:15 in 15K.

Source: http://running.rso.wisc.edu/Valentines5k/

Running will always be my first love (in sports, I mean). What I can say is that "walang tsamba sa running" since you can't improve your game without putting any sacrifice in hard work through regular training. I confess I shifted from being a recreational runner to a serious/competitive one, and it really motivates me to run more frequently.

Ultimate for me would be a cross-training, pseudo-speedwork activity that I plan to continue--with utmost care--until I decide one day that I should let the young boys get all the fun. To have a good or winning team, it take a lot of players with skill and, of course, teamwork.

I'm still focused on my goal for the Milo Marathon on July 4, weight loss and progressive training included.

Good luck to everyone training for their own goals. Ika nga sa Mizuno, "Never Settle!"

Run, chillax, & StumbleUpon

2010-04-03T20:17:00.000+08:00

Home body me.

StumbleUpon kept me company during the long holiday. It was a semi-productive weekend as I got a few tips on how to wake up early to run and had a geeky song playing in my mind during my thoughtless moments...about robot pirates. "Shake it like a sword with a dead guy on it!" :P

Lastly, a way to organize my cluttered desktop using this as my new wallpaper...

Never missed a training run from Tuesday to Friday...15K Easter Sunday...tomorrow...MORNING, not evening. :)

Happy Easter!

A Different Summer w/ Ultimate

2010-04-02T10:31:00.001+08:00

Beach, bum, and run under the sun... if you want a different experience this summer, why not try this one? It starts on April 10, first come, first served. Includes a playing disc already so P600 is definitely good value.

Check out their Facebook page for registration details & updates.

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As I'm joining this, my weekly schedule for April would now be running 5x a week, playing ultimate 2x a week, and resting 0x a week. :P Whew!

Team Probies: From Olats to Champs

2010-03-29T11:39:00.001+08:00

From 0-3 last week to 3-0 yesterday.

Nobody expected us to win, even our own teammates conceded to the fact that there was not way Team Probies (Professional Newbies--I coined the name :) ) would be able to get that Boracay trip c/o Nestea Camp Hot.

Guess what...we did it! :) Hats off to our players who gave their all last Sunday to help us top this competition. Ang gagaling ninyo! :D

Photos c/o Grace Patdu & Rainier Valde.

Another happy thought! :)

My Full Running Potential

2010-03-25T16:12:00.002+08:00

Here in Isabela, my 3rd day out of town for work, but I'm finally going home tomorrow. Three reasons why I preferred to be in Manila this week:

1) Run! Not that I live to run, but I'm just really missing it already. I once attempted to continue my training here in Isabela, but after my night experience, I said to myself that I definitely cannot run here.

I'm also missing a lot of runs in my training program (given to me by Jon)... :(

2) Wednesday Mizuno press conference - missed it, plus Timmy had to text just to tell me that a lot of Takbo.ph peeps won in their raffle. The lucky devils! Congrats anyway, guys! :) Galing!

3) Ultimate frisbee practice - Also on a Wednesday...I had wanted to join that practice with my new Ultimate team for our competition at the Nestea Camp Hot this Saturday. A lot of room for improvement for me. I wanna handle that disc! Go Pro-bies!!!! (Professional Newbies, dunno where I got that team name) Get a win, please! :P

Realization: With this kind of work that I'm doing (frequent travels), I can never reach my full running potential. Well, I can look at it this way...I don't intend to have running as a career and I'm sure I'd have other opportunities later on to improve my game... or rather, run. Also, without my work, I wouldn't have the chance to splurge with all the running stuff that I have right now, and even pay for increasing race registration fees.

It's a give and take thing, I guess. :)

Carbo-Loading Promo at Joey Pep

2010-03-19T11:31:00.000+08:00

Before you head to the Mizuno Infinity Run: Race Day on April 11, 2010, visit Joey Pepperoni in Global City, Fort Bonifacio for Carbo-Loading.

Avail of Joey Pepperoni Pizzeria's special promo, valid to all registered participants of the Mizuno Infinity Run 2010 on March 26 - 28, 2010.

How I Want to Be

2010-03-09T10:48:00.000+08:00

This morning, I weighed in at 184.4 lbs. Not really surprising considering how I've been eating a lot in between meals. Even with running regularly, a balanced diet is critical.

With an ambitious target for the Milo Marathon coming on July 4, I'm now back to calorie counting starting today using Daily Burn. My target weight to maintain is 175 lbs. and I know that it would take a lifestyle change, not a regular, meticulous calorie-counting activity, for me to reach that long-term goal.

A few images that would constantly remind (and motivate) me about my target:

From April 2009 to February 2010, with December being my thinnest, largely because of the BLC.

Daily Burn weight chart showing I was 170 lbs. in December (with 166 lbs. as lightest), up to my current 184.4 lbs.

Good luck to me & to the BLC 2 participants! :)

Mizuno Me Likey!

2010-03-03T20:56:00.050+08:00

This post is an attempt to capture everything that I love about Mizuno running shoes with info bits from running peeps who I know are also drawn to this global sports brand. Of course, I couldn’t leave out the great things that Mizuno Philippines is doing to nurture the trend of running in the country—highlighted by its upcoming Mizuno Infinity Run—with the hopes of evolving the sport into a healthy lifestyle for Filipinos.

Me and Me Mizunos

When my big (US size 13), wide feet were introduced to running in April last year, I said to myself then that I already had my trusty pair of badminton, gum-sole shoes that I can use for the Greenfield City Run in Sta. Rosa. Back then, I didn't have an idea how I'd be able to finish 5km. Oh well, there's walking. Clocking in a super chillax 53:38, Eire and I would later find out that this would be the start of our addiction to running.

Letting myself get into running, what did I need next? Of course, REAL running shoes!

Less than a month later, I decided to shop for my very own pair of real running shoes. There were a number of brands, but I think I was eventually led to Mizuno because of a shoutbox discussion over at Takbo.ph. Aside from the other technologies and features of Mizuno running shoes, I was convinced with their Mizuno Wave technology that promotes both cushioning and stability in all of their models. Check out their site if you want to know more about it.

>> Wave Creation: Me First Pair

After going through the 'mirror gait determination device' (or whatever its real name is) in the Megamall outlet and finding out then that I had a normal to high arch, I ended up with buying a Wave Creation 8, which was on sale since it was an old model. The latest version then was Wave Creation 10. It was also ideal to support my 205-lbs. frame at the time I bought it.

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During my running shoe research, I came upon a neat shoe matrix from the Mizuno USA running site showing the models of running shoes that they had categorized by gait and arranged from maximum cushioning down to minimalistic racing lightweights. For anyone planning to buy a pair of Mizunos, I’d definitely refer them to this link.

Matching each Mizuno neutral pair with another diagram that I found at Road Runner Sports:

Given this chart, Wave Creation would fall under NEUTRAL+ category, Wave Rider as NEUTRAL, and both the Wave Precision and Wave Ronin models in PERFORMANCE NEUTRAL.

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Without any training and direction in running, I just decided to slowly build mileage with my running shoes. I said to myself, “Probably a 25km weekly mileage would be more than enough.” Long distance running wasn’t in my radar then.

Nine races later comprising of 5Ks and a few 10Ks, I was able to do a sub-30 in a 5K race and a 1:03 in 10K. The best thing about the Creation is its cushioning, which really makes running very enjoyable and comfy, considering also that I was a heavy runner. Other runners who I know like the Creation are Edu Fabian and Cyrus, who are both fast runners and active in Takbo.ph. I believe the three of us would agree that one minor downside of Creation is that it’s just really a heavy pair of shoes—13.1 oz. for a size 9. If you plan to improve your running speed, this pair might not be the one for you. The Creation would be great for long, smooth runs.

The latest Creation model that Mizuno launched during the Mizuno Infinity Run Expo last January was the Wave Creation 11, which is a full ounce lighter than the previous version at 12.9 oz (the Creation 10 was 13.9 oz.). I’m sure this big improvement was an answer to peeps who voiced out their main concern about this particular model.

First sub-30 5K in Creation 8

>> Wave Rider: Skipped This One

After nearly 5 months of running with a over 300km in my belt, I had planned to get an 11.3-oz. Wave Rider 12 to complement or replace my Creation. I felt that I had to get a lighter shoe, but still wanted the good cushioning element.

However, I had to skip this one as it felt narrow when I tried it on at the shop. Hmmm…this shoe isn’t for me. A good friend of mine, Neil Barrios, who’s using the model is also bothered by its narrower fit. Jon Trimble, my coach who’s also a size 13 and with wide feet as well, has his feet comfortable with the Wave Rider 10. Probably, that older model would’ve been good for me as well.

I think the Wave Rider 13 is coming out real soon here in the Philippines and if I do decide to get a pair for long runs, I would give its 10.5 oz. weight a try.

>> Wave Precision: Currently Loving My 2 Pairs! :)

Getting the Wave Precision 9 in September was simply one of the best shopping decisions I’ve made! As a gift to myself after running 340km and right after the RotaRUN, Eire and I went straight to Mizuno to quench my thirst for a new running pair.

Running in this pair felt so good and despite having less cushioning, the lightweight quality helped me maintain a decent pace in long distance races up to 21K, capped with a 32K race in Baguio last December. In fact, I got my (current) 27:33 PR in 5K at the Mizuno Run Club mini-race the first time I raced the Precision, and then a 56:51 PR in 10K at Milo just in the second race wearing this new pair. Things started to fall in place for me and running.

First 21K at QCIM (wearing the Mizuno Infinity Run 2009 finisher shirt)

I was so happy with the performance of this shoe that I got a second pair a couple of months ago—the white and orange color this time. This was the pair I used in my first marathon at the Condura Run for Dolphins, where I clocked in 4:12 plus. Of course, it’s not entirely because of the shoe. My weight loss success and programmed tapering (c/o Jon) helped me exceed that sub-4:30 goal.

First marathon (Condura) in my 2nd pair of Precision 9

Other people I know who use the Precision 9 include Natz Garcia, Rico Villanueva, and Jinoe Gavan of Takbo.ph.

More happy thoughts and happy runs!

>> Wave Ronin: Next on My List!

After Condura, I now follow a regular training program prescribed to me by Jon, which is aimed for me to hit at least sub-4 hours in the next Milo Marathon scheduled on July 4. The first part is more of me building up speed and I have an ambitious goal for a 5K race slated this Sunday. I’ll let you know how this one goes.

I’ve been tempted to get a Wave Ronin 2, and I wouldn’t have any second thoughts if I was given the ‘opportunity’ to have my running feet in them. ;) This pair is also being recommended to me by my coach for 5K races and speed intervals. Jinoe Gavan and elite runner Chris Sabal also use this racer.

To spread the joy of Mizuno, I even gave a Wave Nirvana 5 to Eire last Christmas! :D Her name is Sunny.

Mizuno Infinity Run 2010: “Beat Your Own Time”

Aside from the Mizuno Run Club wowness that ended with a blast, the Mizuno Infinity Run is one of the biggest running events staged by Mizuno Philippines every year. Since 2008, about 10,000 runners have participated in this big race and what differentiates this from other annual races is that it is a time trial for you gunning a time against your own time in the previous Infinity Run—hence the theme, “Beat Your Own Time”.

The message alone is very much consistent with my current motivation to run faster than before and I find it very appealing. It’s just me against my running self.

If you joined last year’s Infinity Run and you want to know how much you’ve improved, this race is perfect for you. You can even win if you’re the runner with the most improved time versus your previous record! Even if you weren’t able to sign up last year, having this race in your list would still be a good decision as the previous one was organized successfully with a cool finisher shirt as a nice bonus.

The packet for the 2010 race includes a special edition Mizuno Infinity bag, and each participant would also get a finisher shirt from Mizuno. And there's more!! Mizuno users and Mizuno Run Club members will also be given extra treats at the Mizuno Hospitality booth. Wow!

Customized Infinity Run medals and prize money will be awarded to the top finishers. They will also receive goodies including Mizuno running shoes and gift cheques, Suunto watches and heart rate monitors, Oakley merchandise, gift packs from Gatorade, NutriBar, Doctor J, and Derm Plus Sunblock.

RACE CATEGORIES:

5K, 10K, 15K
Open, Age, "Beat Your Own Time"

DATE:

April 11, 2010

PROGRAM:

4:00am Check-in

5:30am 15K Gunstart
5:45am 10K Gunstart

6:00am 5K Gunstart

VENUE:

Global City, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City

Starting Point: Federacion Drive (near NBC tent & the Fort Strip)

FEES:

5K, 10K: P400

15K: P450

(non-refundable, w/ P50 discount for 2009 Infinity Run participants)

You get registered for FREE if you buy a Mizuno Wave Creation 11!

PRIZES:

OPEN CATEGORY: Cash prizes & Mizuno items

AGE CATEGORY: Medals & Mizuno items

"BEAT YOUR OWN TIME" CATEGORY: Mizuno items, Suunto watches, Oakley eyewear

REGISTRATION:

January 10 to April 4, 2010 at Mizuno outlets

Infinity Run 2010 Registration Form

Infinity Run 2010 Route Maps

IMPORTANT:
1. Acknowledgment receipts are available upon request

2. Bring race # on the day of the race

3. NO RACE NUMBERS, RUNNERS ARE CONSIDERED UNREGISTERED
4. Race will start at exactly 6am and 6:30am

For more information, just call 757-3160 loc 515 or email infinityrun@mizuno.ph.

The Mizuno Infinity Run 2010 is made possible by its sponsors Gatorade, Oakley, Suunto, Mail and More, NutriBar, and Manila Water. Other partners include Doctor J Alcohol, Beeline Helicopters, BMG Solar Hot Water Systems, and CITGO. RunnerSpeak, Run Radio, Men's Health, and Women's Health are the media partners for this big event.

Mizuno Lamang TVC

Finally, here’s a brief ad of Mizuno that Eire and I worked on just to show how much we love the brand and how we want everyone to join in the Mizuno Infinity Run this April. :) Hope you like it!

Happy running & see you at the Mizuno Infinity Run 2010! :D

Frisbee Fun at Nestea Camp Hot

2010-02-28T09:50:00.001+08:00

I DID IT!

I joined the Ultimate Frisbee clinic yesterday at the Nestea Fit Camp Hot in Fort Bonifacio, near BHS. We went there at 8:30am to register for the 9-11am session.

For P150, we got a small Rudy Project bag with a Nestea shirt (that we were supposed to wear during the clinic), a pseudo Road ID, sunblock, and a tumbler for your bottomless Nestea. It was definitely good value!

During the session, we were about 50-60 pax, but there were a lot of trainors to manage us well. We did basic backhand & forehand throws, a defense drill, and yes...we got to play! :) Our newbie team won despite not having a game plan while the other team took it too seriously. :P

Since we were bitin, I decided to go back there on the same day for the 3-5pm session with bro. This time, I was able to play for almost an hour. :D Super saya & I agree with Julie, it can be really addicting. I met a few regular players who meet every Monday in the Meralco open field. I plan to go there to see how I can improve my game.

Being the runner that I am, I asked our trainor..."I've been getting bruises on my hand from catching the frisbee...are these the common injuries in UF?" No, the common injuries are ACL & MCL. A big uh-oh me. :P

I've been inviting other Takbo.ph peeps with a little warning that this sport isn't for you if you're really serious into running, coz of the lateral movements. However, if you're pasaway like me or if you just want to get a feel of Ultimate Frisbee, TARA NA! There are still 4 Saturday sessions starting on March 6.

I'm having fun here. Let's see where this rabbit hole goes... :)

Frisbee drills in the 3pm heat, with Serendra as backdrop

Bro learning the backhand

Me trying to pass to another teammate in a game

Me trying to...play. :P

Frisbeeeee!

2010-02-25T16:57:00.000+08:00

Should I, or shouldn't I?

Lomo #2: Nuvali

2010-02-25T15:55:00.000+08:00

My 2nd batch of lomo shots were taken mostly during the TNF Thrill of the Trail in Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna. This time, I used a Lomography Redscale film (ISO100) for my new 35mm Back. I love the sprockets on the photos, makes it more crude & unique.

Here are a few of my favorites...

Intersection of Pioneer & Reliance Streets, from my unit

Marvin & Z

"Nuvali, nuvali but you" - quote of Roselle

The rest are in my Multiply site. :)

In Isabela: Tama Ba Naman Yun?!?

2010-02-25T15:44:00.000+08:00

After a happy 21K run at the Century Superbods last Sunday, my attention this week was mostly on work as I had to drive myself to Isabela on Tuesday and stay here until tomorrow, Friday.

How about my training program for Unilab?!?

As what coach Jon had suggested, if I do travel for work, the first thing I should pack are my running shoes. :P This I did. I brought my 2 pairs of Precisions and even wore my NB trail shoes just in case. With the new Takbo.ph promo, I even brought my Takbo.ph singlet if I had the chance to pose along a scenic route in Isabela just for a chance to get those odd-looking laces. :)

Anyway, just to rant about what happened during my trip and ATTEMPT to train...

  Tama ba naman yun?!? Pagkatapos magmaneho ng 350km, may gana ka pang tumakbo?

  Tama ba naman yun?!? Alas-9 na ng gabi tapos nagplano ka pang tumakbo? At hello! Tempo run pa ang balak!

  Tama ba naman yun?!? Dahil wala kang reflectorized na vest, akala mo makikita ka ng mga drayber sa yellow na I Am Ninoy running shirt mo?

  Tama ba naman yun?!? Sa makitid na national highway ka pa tatakbo, kung saan dumadaan mga 16 or 18-wheeler na truck na hahampas hangin sa 'yo pag dinaanan ka?

  Tama ba naman yun?!? Ang daming mga nakawala na aso kahit sa national highway?

  Tama ba naman yun?!? Tama bang sabayan ka ng baliw sa kabilang kalye malapit sa sanitarium? Makikipag-pace sa 'yo sa takbo at lakad?

I went back to my hotel (motel) as soon as I found out that a crazy, shirtless man was pacing with me on the other side of the road. Did less than 6km total...http://connect.garmin.com/activity/25415938

Oh well, after that memorable run, I therefore conclude that Isabela is a 'no-run zone' for me... :P Can't wait to get back to Manila tomorrow to run. :) Happy thoughts! Happy thoughts!

A Great Running Quote

2010-02-22T09:37:00.001+08:00

It is the illusion that we can go no faster that holds us back.

- Kenny Moore, American athlete and journalist

-----
I think this is a simple but powerful message that any runner, who aims to run faster, should bear in mind.

My 1st Lomo Shots! :D

2010-02-15T15:23:00.000+08:00

After nearly a month of waiting, I have FINALLY scanned the B&W lomo pics that I took in Corregidor when Eire & I visited the place.

I used my birthday gift Diana F+ Edelweiss version and black & white lomography 120mm film, ISO 100.

Here are a few of my favorites... :)

Check out everything at my Facebook photos.

I bought a 35mm back and redscale film. :) I got to use them after the TNF Thill of the Trail race. Excited to have them processed & printed!

I love lomo! :D

A Thrill of the Trail Indeed

2010-02-15T10:25:00.002+08:00

The TNF Thrill of the Trail lived up to its name by offering the runners a very enjoyable route featuring easy & soft trails and river crossings that really kept the excitement flowing as ALL of the runners had to get their shoes wet for about 10 times along the route. And I'm only referring to the 11K route (I heard the 22K was tougher).

Kudos to the organizers for the well-organized race! I think it was the perfect Valentine's offering to runners who wanted to experience a light adventure to couples during the occasion. This is my first-ever trail race and I'm sure that this benchmark is very high for other future organizers to meet or beat. I think one factor

One minor setback was that a few runners got lost along the way. They were forced to backtrack as they wouldn't be considered as finishers if they didn't go throught the correct route. Hmmm... a misplaced or missing sign, perhaps. A second one, but I would consider as unavoidable, was the bottleneck that happened along the race when the runners were about to go down to the river on a steep incline. Safety first! :)

For those who weren't able to join this due to different reasons (nasaraduhan ng registration, busy, may ibang plano, etc.), sayang talaga! I'd be sure to register early for races where I really want to participate in, especially for trail runs since they happen much less often than road races.

Eire happy running on the soft trail near the start of the race.

Uh oh! Bottleneck for runners going down the steep incline by the river. Safety first!

Cozy in here with the trees. :)

Picture pace w/ Eire, Jai & Tin.

Not without the lively cheerers (w/ plastic bottles para authentic :P)

Poor you if you didn't plan to get your shoes wet.

I got mine wet for about 10 times (same for everyone else).

Happy in the water... :D

...not for them, I guess (removing pebbles in their socks & shoes...I didn't care about those in my own).

Goofing around.

With the finishers and Takbo.ph photographer/kaladkarin peeps! :)

Other photos at my Facebook, at Jai's site, and at Mark's site. :) Thanks, dudes.

Morning Runs, Please?

2010-02-12T21:40:00.000+08:00

"When you run in the morning, you gain time in a sense. It's like stretching 24 hours into 25. You may need to sleep less and get up earlier, but if you can get by that, running early seems to expand the day."
- Fred Lebow, founder of the New York City Marathon

It may be far from the best of quotes that I've received via e-mail from Runner's World, but it's probably one of the most relevant to my running lifestyle. :P

Most of my lone runs are usually done at night. After a long day at work and at least 2 hours after an early dinner, I either drive myself to BHS (or McKinley) and run up to McKinley Hill and back, or if I'm lazy to drive, I go for my 2nd option...running from my place at Pioneer Street to Ortigas Center and back.

Convenience would count as a good reason why I run in the dark, cool weather would be another (I hate heat training so running the BDM would be the least of my priorities...for now.), and of course, SLEEP. Ever since I moved from far-flung Marikina to Mandaluyong where I'm only 2km from work, I make the most out of it by sleeping really long--midnight to past 7am. I admit, I'm usually late... :P but I believe that work output is much more important than mere punctuality.

This post & the quote above would just serve as a reminder for me to TRY to do more morning runs than evening runs. (I hate using the word 'try'.) Focus on the thought..."if I do the runs first thing in the morning, I won't have to worry about them during the day." When Jon strongly advised me to do the runs in the morning, with less than a week to go before Condura, I said, 'okay, I'll chip in 1 or 2 morning runs before the marathon.' I did my last 2 easy runs in the morning and I felt refreshed as soon as I got to work (plus I was unexpectedly early at the office).

Lemme just list down a few reasons why morning runs are better...for my own good:

1. All (almost all would be technically correct) races are held in the morning. Save for Kenny's Open Urbanite Run last year, all races that were listed in Takbo.ph were done in the morning. If I wanna improve my performance, I have to get used to getting my rhythm going at the start of the day.

2. Getting it over & done with. When something comes up during the day that prevents you from running on that evening, it sucks. Me & my cramming self. :P "If I just did that run when I woke up..."

3. More productive at work (?). This might be debatable, but if I do morning runs, I'd be finding myself at work earlier. Instead of just output, I'd be doing both output and punctuality. Like I said, this is for validation.

4. Can be cool, or cooler. Depending on what time you start running, of course. I think starting it at 6am would make you feel like it's 8pm because the sun hasn't really warmed up yet, plus there aren't so many cars on the road at that time.

Other reasons?

To 'good morning' runs. :)

Takbo.ph LSD @ Cardiac Hills on July 26, 2009

Team PPB: Work in Progress

2010-02-08T11:06:00.004+08:00

Condura: I am Blessed.

2010-02-07T19:35:00.002+08:00

My 1st marathon may be a big highlight in my running career, but after the feeling of elation, accomplishment, and cheerful vibes, I want to look back just to see how blessed I am right now with a lot of other things going on in the running community & in my life...

I am blessed for having REAL friends & REAL people around me. I still believe Takbo.ph is full of good people, always ready to support and cheer for anyone who wants to achieve their running goals, whatever they may be.

Thank you, Takbo.ph peeps.

A cheerful Takbo.ph aid station. Thank you, Jinoe & co.

Thank you, Eire. :)

I am blessed for having someone push me on to the finish and didn't give up on me despite my stubbornness and severe pain from cramps on both legs towards the last 6km of the race when I almost got hit by a taxi at the intersection of Ayala & Buendia Ave (at 33km).

Thank you, Jon Trimble.

After having realized that there is at least 1 person in the running community who acts as a friend, but in reality, this person harbors such resentment towards me, I used this negative energy to motivate me even more and my thoughts of this person's immaturity fueled my run at one point in the race. However, I do not thank you.

Whatever I do in my life & whatever I achieve, it is for me to prove only to myself, and not to anybody else, that I can overcome such challenge.

As I do not know you personally & I never might even have the chance to, bear in mind that the next time I see you & smile at you, know that I am true and although I'm no 'elite', I will support you to whatever you want to achieve in running.

----

When I cried as soon as I crossed the finish line, those tears came from a mix of the pain from my cramps, the joy for finishing, and the appreciation of the people who supported me along the way.

To "RunnerS"

2010-02-06T09:27:00.000+08:00

Thanks a lot to Sam aka The Running Ninja for putting a bright light on the situation by working on this one...it turned the issue into one of my happy thoughts. :)

Thanks also to the other Takbo.ph peeps who responded objectively on this matter.

Team Powerpuff Boys!

2010-02-03T09:57:00.002+08:00

When I first heard about the Epic Relay 250 coming up on June 12-13, I immediately had the urge to form a team of 10 so that we would have lotsa time to prepare. In consultation with UltraPat, we formed the lineup and then the name was originally Team Powerhouse. :P The name itself put a lot of pressure on Mark and I also thought that it's a name we wouldn't be able to live up to.

With Jinoe making a FB comment and supported by other Takbo.ph peeps, our team's name is now Team Powerpuff Boys!

1. Patrick Alcomendas
2. Bryan Rivera
3. Chris Iblan
4. Wilnar Iglesia
5. Dennis Ravanzo
6. Luis Arcangel
7. Mark Hernandez
8. Jixee Lagunda
9. Julius Giron
10. Graciano Santos
11. Ronald Declarador (reserve)

I'm definitely the slowest in the group and I'm so pressured right now to train for speed & endurance. I still have about 4 months to go. :)

Here's the base artwork that I'll be working on for our singlet/shirt!

I'm excited to design our singlet! :D hahaha

-----
Here's a rough Photoshop artwork that I worked on during my lunch break...

My SWAC 4: 1% Skill, 99% Endurance

2010-02-02T12:52:00.004+08:00

My first race for 2010 turned out to be SWAC 4 with me never having the chance to train or even experience competitive swimming since birth. :P Organized by Rico aka Sheerwill for Takbo.ph peeps, this aquathlon has been going on since the middle of last year with those interested joining the group for swimming every Wednesday at the 50m-long Army Pool in Fort Bonifacio.

I was fortunate that the pool that we used was in Camp Aguinaldo and had only 25m. If it were double that, I'm definite that I would've finished much slower (thanks to the push-off at the pool ends.. :P hehe).

After 100m, I was already exhausted. I took a lot of standing (not walking) breaks just to catch my breath as I couldn't sync with my newbie stroke.

I relied on 1% skill and 99% endurance to finish the swim leg.

After 400m of swimming that felt like forever, I was thankful that it was the run part.

My first few meters were like a major adjustment. My lungs felt like it had already ran more than 10km. :P I still managed not to walk in that short 3K run and finished in 31 minutes. Even if I was able to go past a few fast swimmers, I remember halimaw Wilnar overtaking me during that stretch. Oh, I wouldn't be able to pace with that monster. :P

The whole event was great. The people were fun, the suman was so yummy, and the photobongbong pictures was a nice bonus. :)

Can't wait for SWAC 5!

Here are a few captured moments:

SWAC 4 complete results:

600m 5k
Classic Swim Transition Run Total
1 Erick Guieb ____ 14:41:00 ____ 0:47:00 ____ 21:23:00 ____ 36:51:00
2 Jason dela Rama ____ 14:54:00 ____ 1:18:00 _ 21:29:00 _37:41:00
3 Vinci Carag ____ 14:51:00 ____ 0:31:00 ____ 23:08:00 ____ 38:30:00
4 Ian Clemeno ____ 14:29:00 ____ 1:11:00 ____ 25:27:00 ____ 41:07:00
5 Deo Patalinghog _ 16:39:00 ____ 0:25:00 ____ 26:15:00 ____ 43:19:00
6 Marvin Opulencia _ 15:02:00 ____ 1:42:00 ____ 27:58:00 ____ 44:42:00
7 James Dulalia ____ 15:58:00 ____ 0:00:00 ____ 31:10:00 ____ 47:08:00
8 Girly Guiterrez ____ 17:50:00 ____ 1:49:00 ____ 28:05:00 ____ 47:44:00
9 Roselle ____ 22:34:00 ____ 0:00:00 ____ 25:19:00 ____ 47:53:00
10 Mark Hernandez ____ 23:02:00 ____ 1:49:00 ____ 25:02:00 ____ 49:53:00
11 Jan Blando ____ 20:09:00 ____ 2:15:00 ____ 28:23:00 ____ 50:47:00
12 Rico Villanueva ____ 16:50:00 ____ 1:07:00 ____ 33:09:00 ____ 51:06:00
13 Ross Cristal ____ 29:41:00 ____ 2:08:00 ____ 30:09:00 ____ 61:58:00
14 Vic Viola ____ 34:19:00 ____ 2:16:00 ____ 27:17:00 ____ 63:52:00
15 RJ Bumanglag ____ 18:42:00 ____ - ____ - ____ -
400m 3k
Lite Swim Transition Run Run
1 Al ____ 06:46:00 ____ 01:06:00 ____ 18:09:00 ____ 26:01:00
2 Emil Ancheta ____ 11:05:00 ____ 00:56:00 ____ 14:38:00 ____ 26:39:00
3 Sid Apolinario ____ 10:57:00 ____ 00:52:00 ____ 15:14:00 ____ 27:03:00
4 Pat Alcomendas _ 12:50:00 ____ 02:47:00 ____ 11:45:00 ____ 27:22:00
5 Wilnar Iglesia ____ 15:07:00 ____ 01:16:00 ____ 12:04:00 ____ 28:27:00
6 Bryan Rivera ____ 14:27:00 ____ 00:45:00 ____ 15:49:00 ____ 31:01:00
7 Topher Montaos _ 13:51:00 ____ 00:47:00 ____ 17:24:00 ____ 32:02:00
8 Rodel Cuaton ____ 16:15:00 ____ 00:38:00 ____ 16:08:00 ____ 33:01:00
9 Ronald Declarador _ 16:05:00 _ 00:00:00 ____ 17:02:00 ____ 33:07:00
10 Doc Art Virata ____ 15:51:00 ____ 01:42:00 ____ 16:32:00 ____ 34:05:00
11 Brando Losaria ____ 17:09:00 ____ 01:37:00 ____ 15:34:00 ____ 34:20:00
12 Julie Reyes ____ 13:57:00 ____ 00:51:00 ____ 20:06:00 ____ 34:54:00
13 Cess Duterte ____ 11:44:00 ____ 01:43:00 ____ 24:18:00 ____ 37:45:00
14 Eire Daproza ____ 15:57:00 ____ 00:49:00 ____ 23:47:00 ____ 40:33:00
15 Kyle ____ ____ 13:23:00 ____ 01:42:00 ____ 31:44:00 ____ 46:49:00
16 Jet Paiso ____ 20:41:00 ____ 03:17:00 ____ 22:52:00 ____ 46:50:00

2K BURST! - Fastest 2km in February

2010-02-01T21:44:00.000+08:00

2km Virtual Race!

Following the 1-mile challenge set last month by one of my running idols, Natz, I just opened a new challenge for my fellow Daily Milers in this LINK good for the whole month of February. All you need to do is sign up at Daily Mile and log in your quickest 2km in either your training or even part of a race where you're joining in this month.

Here's the 1-miler challenge that I was referring to.

I thought 1km might be too short and more than 2km might be too long...for now. :)

Sali na! Wasakan na! :P hehe Good luck! :)

Condura 42K Map based on Rs FINAL ROUTE

2010-01-29T13:28:00.000+08:00

Mapped the 42K route based on PatCon's post HERE.

Click HERE for the RunningAhead map

Text directions also from Rs:

START

- 28TH STREET
- RIGHT AT 11TH AVENUE
- RIGHT AT 26TH STREET
- LEFT AT 5TH AVENUE
- GO STRAIGHT TO LAWTON DRIVE
- LEFT AT LIBINGAN ROAD
- TURNAROUND AT (BLACK GATE) PHILIPPINE ARMY OFFICERS LADIE'S SCHOOL
- RIGHT AT LAWTON DRIVE ALL THE WAY TO 5TH AVENUE
- LEFT AT 32ND STREET ALL THE WAY TO KALAYAAN
- DOWN BUENDIA
- LEFT AT ESTACION ST. (BEFORE RAILROAD TRACKS)
- RIGHT AT DELA ROSA STREET
- UP BUENDIA SKYWAY OFF-RAMP
- STRAIGHT TO BICUTAN
- TURNAROUND
- EXIT AT NAIA 3 INTERCHANGE
- TURNAROUND 50 MTRS OFF TOLL BOOTH
- BACK TO SKYWAY NORTHBOUND
- EXIT BUENDIA OFF RAMP
- RIGHT AT DELA ROSA STREET
- LEFT AT ESTACION
- RIGHT AT BUENDIA
- UP KALAYAAN FLYOVER
- DOWN 32ND STREET
- LEFT UNIVERSITY PARKWAY
- RIGHT AT TRIANGLE DRIVE
- LEFT AT 10TH AVENUE
- LEFT AT UNIVERSITY PARKWAY
- RIGHT AT 32ND STREET
- LEFT AT 5TH AVENUE
- LEFT AT 29TH STREET

- FINISH LINE

A LONG-TERM GOAL: Great Wall Marathon®

2010-01-28T23:15:00.003+08:00

Great Wall Marathon ®

A race that I plan to join in...eventually. :) I'll keep it here so I can remember it later on.

Jon's Prescribed 2-Week Taper Program for Condura

2010-01-27T20:37:00.001+08:00

With the Condura Skyway Marathon less than 2 weeks away, I couldn't really decide how to taper...or if I really wanted to. I recalled that 2 days before the 30K Rizal Day Run, I did a 10km tempo run but in the race, I managed to hit my target finish time. I wonder if my finish there would've been better if I took a taper program seriously.

So I sent a note to Jon last night, who's now known in Takbo.ph threads for giving advice on how to run faster and I chanced upon a particular thread. I first met him during our 2nd LSD run at Cardiac Hill where I believe the peeps were pressured to finish faster than usual because of him. I admit, I do admire his accomplishments in terms of finishing times, especially for 5K. 5K in 17 minutes!!!! :P

Jon with Gegie happy (and not tired) after finishing the 'easy' 19.5km Cardiac Hill LSD with us

This morning, I got a reply from him prescribing to me a taper program for my first marathon in Condura. I believe this is based on both my 2:51 finish time in Rizal Day and my 4:30 target in the marathon. Here it is:

THURSDAY - 5K Tempo @ 5:30 pace with 2km WU & 2km CD

FRIDAY - 8K Easy

SUNDAY - 15K Long Run @ 5:41 pace

TUESDAY - 8K with varying distance accelerations at marathon pace

WEDNESDAY - 6K Easy

THURSDAY - 5K Easy

FRIDAY or SATURDAY - 3K Easy

SUNDAY - 42K Race Day!

He even sent me a link to a cool pace calculator...one that I've been trying to find in the Net for a long time. Click this one...pace calculator.

----

I did the first prescribed exercise today instead of tomorrow at Ultra as soon as I left the office. Since I was there already, I also did the Dailymile 1-mile challenge and finished in 7 minutes flat!!! :) It should've been 2-3 seconds faster since I didn't place my Garmin in autolap, did it manually but I'm happy with my time already.

Here's my 1st exercise in the taper program as prescribed above (the THURSDAY):

   2km warmup @ 7:00 pace
   1.6km @ 4:20 pace
   3.4km @ 5:50 pace
   2km cooldown @ 5:54 pace
   TOTAL = 9km

I'll do the 8K easy tomorrow so I can relax on Friday for the Saturday SWAC 4. :)

I'll try to follow Jon's recommendation and, with the proper carbo loading & a little weight loss, I'll see if I can do a sub-4:30 in my first marathon.

Good luck to everyone running in Condura! :)

I Dream of Nike Free

2010-01-23T16:40:00.000+08:00

While digesting all of the food I had from our free Heat buffet lunch, which was one of my BLC prizes courtesy of Margalicious, I had a relaxing afternoon surfing the net and trying to figure out something to do.

Here's what I ended up with...

Check out the
NikeFree 5.0 v4 iD Running Shoe
I designed at NIKEiD.com

To buy or not to buy... :P In case I decide to later on, this will be my design...or maybe something else. :)

I gotta run later. I still feel soooo full. :P Better keep within 175-180 lbs. for Condura. :D

Mapping Ahead Condura 42K - REVISED

2010-01-21T20:37:00.002+08:00

Sharing this one for those of you running the full marathon next month at the Condura Run... :)

CLICK HERE for the REVISED Condura 42K Skyway Marathon map

Instead of running tonight, I spent this part of the evening mapping out Condura's 42K route from their site just to get an idea how far I would've already ran before even reaching the Skyway.

---

Revised as of today, January 23, with details following the Bull Runner's post here.

---

Using Running Ahead, it turns out that:

* Before reaching Kalayaan flyover going to Buendia Ave., you would've ran about 12km.

* Before entering Skyway would be more than 16km already.

* Turnaround point at Bicutan interchange would be past the 25km mark.

* The so-called "Condura Hill" with the interchange of flyovers going to the airport would be 30km in the race.

Even with the revised map, the 4 tiems above still follows. :)

Notice that the map only shows 41+km. It's understandable as this mapping tool isn't 100% accurate. We'll see what Garmin has to say in the actual race.

Good luck to everyone--both 1st timers (me included) & seasoned marathoners! :)

To Greener Runs

2010-01-21T15:10:00.000+08:00

March 21, 2010
Sunday, 5:30am
SM Mall of Asia (in front of IMAX)

Registration starts on January 15, 2010

P500 for all race categories - 3K/5K/10K/15K

For more information & inquiries, contact:
Alain David - 0918-6853893
Joyce Yao - 0917-8417141
http://www.thegreenmilesrun.ph/

-----

You should join this race if:

1) You want to beat Piolo Pascual, like the notorious Kanto Boyz founded during the New Balance Power Race late last year. If I'm not mistaken, the primary vision of this group is to do a "sub-Piolo" or sub-47 minute 10K. He said during the press conference that he's currently training with his brother, so you should better prepare too.

2) You want to support Piolo's Hebreo 12:1 Foundation whose efforts are geared towards educating our underprivileged youth. Another beneficiary would be the DENR's Marilao River Cleanup project.

3) You're a hardcore UST alumnus since this is organized by the UST HS Batch 88 Alumni Association. A portion of the proceeds would also go to them for funding other community initiatives.

Otherwise, you can also join the Green Miles if you want to run for either leisure, training, socializing, or even just for for the experience of running along peaceful Manila Bay early in the morning.

Lomo-Ready!

2010-01-18T12:40:00.001+08:00

Wow! I received the coolest birthday gift ever from Eire! :D A brand new lomo camera, a white Diana F+ Edelweiss version. Thanks so very muchy, Eire! :D

My new toy!

Ever since I encountered or stumbled upon lomography, I've been intrigued by its form of photography that is much more different because of its seemingly 'imperfect but amazing' approach to the hobby. You can learn more about it at Lomography.com. Too bad the Lomomanila site is being upgraded as of this posting. :P

Here I am fiddling with it at Corregidor, the first time I ever used this new toy. :)

I'm just waiting for the 2-day processing of the first 2 120mm, B&W rolls, which is expected to be done and delievered to my place today. :) If they do look upload-worthy, I'll be posting them here.

Excuses Lessen the Guilt

2010-01-10T14:40:00.000+08:00

My visit to the Mizuno Infinity Run Expo this morning led me to buying my 3rd pair of Mizunos (and 4th pair of running shoes) in the last 8 months, after running for more than 1,000km.

The current pairs I have are the Mizuno Wave Creation 8 that I was still using even after a portion of the right sole was literally vanishing as seen in an old post. I also got a green Mizuno Wave Precision 9 last September that I really enjoyed for both tempo runs and races as it was much lighter than the Creation. I also have a New Balance 609 for trail running (or simply my shoes for dirty runs).

My 3rd Mizuno... here she is...

Wave Precision 9

Yup, another Precision 9! :) I'm happy with the shoe's performance, and this shoe helped me in getting my target PRs for short & long distance races. This new pair will be my "multi-purpose" shoe, for:

- Races

- Tempo/speedwork

- LSD runs
- other runs with Takbo.ph
No more shifting to a different pair for training & races...well, except for trail runs wherein I would still use my NB. :)

Here are at least 5 excuses I had to lessen the guilt for buying another pair of shoes:

1.) Wave Creation 8 dying (or half-dead)

Before

After

2.) Condura Run 42K - for my 1st full mary... hmmm... would I make another excuse after that full mary to get another pair? :P

3.) Birthday gift to my self - *ahem* :)

4.) Pre-need - preparation for the inevitable that my other Precision wouldn't last very long with my weekly run mileage :P

5.) I love running. :)

Cardiac Hill Tidbits

2010-01-04T10:30:00.001+08:00

1 Key Difference from last year's Cardiac Hill LSD:

1.) Much faster running pace w/ less break time
Were the guys pressured by someone? Is everyone evolving to halimaw status?

Last year - slowly but surely

This year - always on the run

Last year - break whenever, wherever

This year - break only when halimaws take one

3 Oddities during the Cardiac Hill LSD:

1.) Brando (aka Ace Balasador) without his bad-ass camera, or Brando included in the pictures!

2.) Somebody smiling differently ;)

3.) Missing bike support?

Last year's bike support?!?

3 New Improvements in this Cardiac Hill LSD:

1.) Much bigger delegation

Last year's group - 17 participants

This year's group - 35 addicts! (others went home early)

2.) Use of acquired orienteering skills

One of the lesson's learned from CP2?

3.) Improvised Takbo.ph banner

Where's the banner? There it is!

1 Key Similarity with last year's Cardiac Hill LSD:

1.) REAL FUN with Takbo.ph! :D

Did I miss anything? :)

2009: My Running Discovery Year

2010-01-02T14:18:00.005+08:00

From the time i ran & raced for the first time with Eire at the Greenfield City Run in Sta. Rosa, Laguna last April 19--both of us wearing badminton shoes as true-blooded newbies--until the memorable Rizal Day Run where I finally hit 1,000km of running mileage, 2009 is a very special year for me.

Eire & I in our first run & race...53 minutes for 5K! :D Both of us seen wearing badminton shoes here, not having a clue what Photovendo was. :P

Nearly 8 years ago, when our company sponsored the Pasig River Marathon and when I actually participated in the 3km fun run, I said to myself I would never run a full marathon. I even thought that those who did run 42km races were crazy. :P

Hmmm...I spoke too soon.

To squeeze everything in a giant nutshell, here are some bits of 2009, the year I decided to get out of that couch and become a running addict. For the best & worst items, this is just my personal opinion. I don't want to debate with anyone here. :)

2009 RACES & RECORDS:

_090419_Greenfield_5K_53:38
_090521_IE8Run_4mi_47:33
_090607_MizunoInfinity_5K_34:45
_090614_PTAA_5K_35:32
_090712_RobinsonsBuddy_5K_39:21
_090719_GlobeRFH_10K_1:04:22
_090815_KOUR_10K_1:03:10
_090823_Levi's_5K_29:03
_090905_MMM_5K_33:13
_090920_ROTARun_10K_1:22:15
_091001_MizunoMini_5K_27:33*PR

_091011_MiloFinals_10K_56:51*PR

_091018_QCIM_21K_2:11:45

_091025_AKOTR_21K_2:04:44

_091115_AnimoRun_10K_1:01:55

_091122_Urbanathlon_10K_1:05:01

_091129_NewBalance_10K_1:05:27

_091206_30for30_32K_3:58:17*PR

_091220_CelebRun_21K_1:56:35*PR

_091230_RizalDay_30K_2:51:28*PR

2009 BEST RACES:

1. Men's Health Urbanathlon (by Finishline)

2. Quezon City International Marathon (by Runnex)

3. Rizal Day Run (by Bald Runner)

Honorable Mention: Robinsons Fit & Fun Buddy Run, Kenny Rogers Open Urbanite Run

2009 BEST RACE ROUTE FOR P.R.:

Milo Finals - 10K Route

2009 TOUGHEST RACE:

30 for 30 Foot Race in Baguio City

2009 MOST MEMORABLE RACE:

2nd MIT-MC Orienteering Competition in Maragondon, Cavite

2009 BEST SINGLET:

Adidas King of the Road singlet

---

On the side, I even managed to win in a biggest loser contest organized by Rico of Takbo.ph by losing 34 lbs. in 1 & a half months. That's after running more than 270km and strictly following a balanced diet in the entire duration. Losing those excess pounds helped me more in running and achieving my target PRs. :)

---

Thanks a lot to everyone at Takbo.ph for being very welcoming & supportive to my running addiction. I feel very proud being part of the Filipino running community.

_rizal_day_1,000km_what's_next?

2009-12-30T17:00:00.008+08:00

still resting my legs from the rizal day run this morning, i'm wearing a smile on my face, happy that i was able to complete the 2 challenges i set for myself today.

1. CHALLENGE #1: improving my 32K time from 3:58 (in baguio) to sub-3:30

if there's one important lesson i learned from the rizal day run, it would be the value of preparation...up until the night before the race. i slept early, at around 9:00pm, which was a feat as i usually sleep close to midnight. :P i gradually increased my intake of carbs from 3 days before the race, and i also racked in more mileage during the month to help me get used to long distances.

as what i did in baguio, my strategy was to start fast and then slow down a bit (aka take walk breaks). it was my first time to run at camp aguinaldo and i felt a bit reluctant speeding up during the 1st loop as i couldn't see the humps...at 5:30am. it was just too dark! :P

after 2 loops and upon checking my time, i felt a bit relaxed and decided to take 10 to 20-second walk breaks, plus the breaks along the water stations.

at the last loop, i was cheered on by takbo.ph peeps jet, lauren, julie (salamat sa puto...hehehe), cherry, birthday boy ziggy, sam, and others. thanks a lot, guys. what you did really helped me push on with my run and i am once more grateful for having you guys around. of course, much thanks also to eire for her support during my BLC sacrifice and regular runs that helped me exceed my challenge targets.

i finished 29.65km in 2:51, way beyond my 3:30 target. :) challenge #1 done! :D

i set my garmin to change laps every 8km since i assumed it was 32km and i wanted to monitor my pace in segments no more than 10km. here are my race stats:

8km - 5:20/km
8km - 5:37/km
8km - 6:08/km
5.65km - 6:08/km
TOTAL = 29.65km - 5:47/km (2:51:28)

as usual, thanks to brando for the photo...

2. CHALLENGE #2: hitting 1,000km before end of 2009 (in less than 8 months)

it's really great to celebrate a runner's 1,000km mark by getting a shirt from bald runner with a bold statement "1,000km Club". as what sir jovie himself told us when timmy asked if they plan to give out shirts with "2,000km", the first 1,000km would always be the toughest for any runner. it's when you get out of that couch and decide to hit the street, not with your car, but with your own two feet. :)

challenge #2 done!

me & my idol :D

showing off our shirts...this time with carina & rod

---

kudos to bald runner and his team for the well-organized race with a distinction of serving ice cream, beer, and ice-cold water for the finishers. the 2 water stations along the route were also filled with cold gatorade, fita biscuits, and even fit & right fruits (am i right?). i am truly amazed with what they did for all of the runners who participated here. i now agree with sam's remark that races don't have to be expensive to be successful & full of freebies.

even if the distance was short, i had absolutely no complaints! i give the rizal day run 3 thumbs up (if i were an alien with 3 thumbs)! :D

saludo ako sa 'yo, bald runner! :) i'm sure takbo.ph peeps will be looking forward to succeeding races organized by your group.

---

thanks a lot to tere & her office for the free boodle fight that happened right after the race! :D sarap talaga kumain ng libre! had my fill of pork, rice, sardines, & whatever was in there. :)

---

i notice that if i set challenges for myself, the more i get determined to accomplish them. i want a goal in sight so that i can imagine myself reaching it. :) this also helps in keeping me motivated in running. i've tried setting challenges in daily mile and i hope this would also help me after 2009.

for 2010, one of my goals would be to run at least 100-160km every month.

what's the next big challenge for me?

after this, the only definite challenge that i see right now is the condura run. this is my other goal. besides, after running 1,000km in less than 8 months with a decent time for 30km, i could probably say to myself i'm ready to hit sub-4:30 for a 42k race. :P january would be another month for preparations. should i pile up the mileage or start to taper? i'll find out what my body tells me.

i'm excited for 2010! more running, races, & fun...beginning with the LSD at cardiac hills (my 1st LSD with takbo.ph)! :D

happy new running year to all!

_mizuno_infinity_01.10.10

2009-12-29T15:43:00.003+08:00

hey, guys! :) here's an update on the much-awaited mizuno infinity run 2010 as shared by Marianne of Mizuno! :D

----

Get your 411 on 01.10.10

January 10, 2010: Mark the date for the Mizuno Running Expo and the start of the registration for the Mizuno Infinity Run. There will also be a Running Sale with discounts shooting up to 80% off. All these exciting events happening from 10am to 7pm at the BMG Centre, Magallanes Commercial Center, Makati.

The Mizuno Running Expo will feature top running athletes such as Olympian Henry Dagmil, SEA games athlete Neil Ducusin, distinguished running coaches Ige Lopez, Patrick Joson and Peter Gonzales, renowned race organizer Rudy Biscocho and other known personalities in the running community.

These experts will help expo participants understand more about the competitive running form, proper hydration and nutrition, latest technology and gear, and other vital information to help them get the most out of their running season.

April 11, 2010: Mizuno Infinity Race – the country’s first-ever race bannering a challenge to runners to “Beat Your Own Time.” Registration is at 400 pesos for the 5/10K and 450 pesos for the 15K. You can register for the Mizuno Infinity Run at the following Mizuno stores: Boni High Street, Megamall, Festival Mall, Mall of Asia, Trinoma and Magallanes.

Watch out for the launch of Creation 11 – the official shoe for the Mizuno Infinity Race. Runners will get their race packets for free upon purchase of Creation 11. This is on top of the generous freebies that Mizuno and partner sponsors have prepared.

The Mizuno Infinity Run Expo is made possible in cooperation with Oakley and Gatorade with the following majorsponsors: Mail and More, Suunto, and Manila Water. Doctor J, Derm Plus Lotion, Citgo, and BMG Solar. Media partners include RunnerSpeak, Run Radio on NU 107, Men’s Health and Women’s Health.

Please visit www.mizuno.ph or call 757-3160 loc 515 for more details.

_new_challenge:_1,000km_in_8_months

2009-12-19T18:44:00.005+08:00

the last quarter of 2009's turning out to be filled with big challenges for me... :) bring it on! :D

after the 1 1/2 month blc, now i'm testing myself to drastically increase my mileage from the time i started running in may, barely 8 months ago.

i also see this as very timely as there would a race on december 30 called rizal day run being organized by none other than bald runner, one of my idols in running and even the one giving out the 1,000-km shirts in exchange for a small amount to support their cause for runners.

and, i also have a 'pacer' to reach the 1,000-km mark--rod aka rodrunner--who is also looking to hit 1,000km during the rizal day run. :) such an inspiration for me. thanks, rod!

right now, as of this posting, my total mileage since may is 853.65km. here's my daily mile log to prove it:

i need 146.35km in 11 days. :P here's my plan to reach 1,000km by december 30:

december 20 - 21K - celebrity run
december 20 - 7K - recovery (evening)
december 21 - 15K
december 22 - 6K
december 23 - 8K - tempo run
december 24 - 10K
december 25 - rest
december 26 - 16K
december 27 - 16K
december 28 - 16K - w/ 8km speedwork
december 29 - rest
december 30 - 32K - rizal day run

TOTAL = 147km (11 days)

if i complete this, i would've run a total of 301km for december alone! :O oh my...

i feel this would be much more challenging than the blc. only my determination (and luck that i don't get any injusry) would be able to say if i can accomplish this plan. cw-x, do your thing. :P hehe

wish me luck. :)

_cw-x:_xmas_gift_to_my_running_self

2009-12-18T23:47:00.004+08:00

the same day (today) that runnr announced at facebook that they were going to have fresh stocks of cw-x compression tights, i thought, "woah! finally, i've decided which xmas gift i can happily give myself!" :D after all, just this year, running helped me lower my cholesterol, blessed me with new friends at takbo.ph, and was a big factor on how i lost a lot of weight, with a bonus pa! ;)

i went to runnr before 9pm as they said delivery would be at that time. :P super excited! hahaha it turned out the truck was late so i decided to run 10km as i've been pigging out for the last 3 days in gensan. :(

got the stabilyx model as recommended by nico, medium sized. :P since i ran before i had the chance to go back to the store, i didn't want to fit it with my sweaty legs. :P i just told nico i'll buy it first, go home for a shower, then try it. if it doesn't fit, i'll exchange it tomorrow. right now (as i'm wearing it while doing this post), looks like medium fits well. :)

i'll give this a test at the celebrity run this sunday. 21k agad! :P

hmmmm...these compression tights would be another motivation for me to keep my weight below 180 lbs for the condura run! registered also at runnr...1st full mary! :)

...siguro naman after 1,000km, i can try 42km na. :)

_lose_34_lbs_in_42_days

2009-12-12T17:24:00.009+08:00

i just pigged out today with a post-BLC lunch at TGIF with Eire, and it was simply satisfying. it was my first time in a very long while to feel too full from eating chicken, french fries, and other oily stuff that i had to completely avoid for 42 days in the Takbo.ph BLC.

today's lunch...a day after the BLC

sharing what i actually did to lose 34.4 lbs, not implying that this is for anyone out there who wants to shed some pounds. i'm 5'11" and internet literature says my ideal weight should be around 160-185 lbs, considering my build & age. since i started at 200.8 lbs with the BLC, i had a lot to lose.

-----

i confess that i consulted once (only once) with a nutritionist 2 weeks into the BLC period who gave me a meal plan, which i eventually didn't follow as i didn't like the idea of measuring portions and timing my meals & snacks. the plan entailed that i consume 2,200 calories consisting of about 60% carbs, 20% protein, & 20% fat. i completely dropped the plan and decided to work on my own.

from internet research, intuition, pondering, & determination, here were the 2 simple rules i followed throughout the BLC weight loss period:

1) FOLLOW A 2,000-CALORIE DIET WITH 60:20:20 CARB, PROTEIN, FAT RATIO

i tracked every single fruit, drink, & food morsel that i consumed everyday and recorded them at daily burn, including my weight progress. i could actually eat anything i wanted, but i focused on those foods that would make me full longer, either high in fiber (like papaya/apple) or known to lessen people's appetite (like coffee).

since my food cravings included high-calorie goodies that i knew wouldn't satisfy my hunger, i skipped all of them.

a normal list of foods that i usually eat in a day include:

BREAKFAST
1 cup of oatmeal or corn flakes with soy milk

A.M. SNACK
1 hard-boiled egg
1 mug brewed coffee with cream & non-calorie sweetener
1 banana

LUNCH
1 viand from bodhi or canned tuna (any flavor, either century tuna or san marino)
1 cup brown rice

P.M. SNACK
2 slices of multigrain wheat bread
2 tbsp sugar-free strawberry jam
1 cup instant coffee, sugar-free

DINNER
1 bowl tuna pasta
1 banana
1 apple

when you search these foods at daily burn, they come to around 1,900 calories with about 62% carbs, 17% protein, & 21% fat. i'm not totally strict about the 60:20:20 rule.

notice that this food list actually seems too much for someone on a BLC diet. :) this complements what i did in #2 as i needed a lot of energy to run. without energy, i'd be stuck at home just watching TV or hanging out at the SB. :P

2) RUN AS MUCH AS I CAN, WHENEVER I CAN

another net tool that i've been using since i started with my running addiction is daily mile.

for 42 days, i ran a total of 274km consisting short & long runs, with a few races. most of the time, i ran in the evening, around 2 hours after dinner and there were even a few times when i started past 10pm (with eire getting a bit worried about what i was doing to myself). my usual route includes the fort, mckinley hills, and pioneer-ortigas (when i'm lazy to drive to the fort). i hated waking up in the morning as i preferred sleeping a bit more. :) except for the races, i did only 1 solo run in the morning and it was probably just 5km.

daily mile weekly log--the 88km log was when i ran nightly for at least 12km, including the 32km baguio race

i noticed that for every run, i'd lose around .5 to .7 lbs the following day, even after eating breakfast. that even got me motivated to run more.

the only danger when i did consecutive runs, up to 7 straight days of long runs, i knew that i would become more prone to injury based on what i've heard & read from other runners. i just said to myself that since i'm running only at a slow, fat burning zone pace, i'd be okay...while crossing my fingers & toes. :) i was very, very fortunate that i didn't have to face any injury during that entire running frenzy.

as for gym, i only did weights 3 times (with 1 week intervals) in the entire period as i didn't want to build muscles. :P

-----

like i said in my FB status, i thank Takbo.ph for sparking & nurturing such a very fun Filipino running community, all the inspiring BLC participants who gave so much of their effort to lose weight as their passion to change for the better, to Rico & Gerard for organizing the BLC, and to Eire for her untiring support and tolerance to my nightly runs and sacrifice to test my limits in this competition.

i have changed for the better. i am truly blessed & i am sincerely grateful. :)

gobbling a cupcake 1 minute after my final weigh-in

me & alan (2nd placer, super weight-loser too)

final scores/percentages

happy BLCers at the takbo.ph party...Ley, Rico, Mike, Marga, me, Sam, Alan, Gerard, Raff, Yan, Gail, Rodel, & Neil

thanks to Brando & Pio for the photos!

-----

after the BLC, i plan to maintain my weight and not go over 185 lbs. :) i think it seems realistic as i want to start eating the foods that i crave for...without overindulging, of course. ;)

_866m_elevation_<15c_32km_baguio

2009-12-08T16:22:00.012+08:00

like i've mentioned in my FB status, this race marked my:

- longest (32.03km)
- toughest (866m total elevation gain)
- coldest (below 15 degrees celsius)

...race ever participated in.

you can see the route here. here's my account of this memorable race on december 6:

3:50am

cellphone alarm goes off on a chilly early morning. very glad we got a hotel room with hot water in the shower, even if the water was actually lukewarm because of the ice-cold water that the heater had to work on. we stayed at baguio holiday villa court hotel & apartelle (whew!) along legarda road. i chose this among other hotels that were situated near burnham park so it's near the starting line and we just needed to walk less than 1km to get there. they still offered the off-peak rate at P1,200 per night so for me, it was worth it.

4:45am

after photo-ops with eire, ellen, & carlo along the hotel hallway, we went off to warm up to the starting line. as soon as we got out of the hotel building, the cold was instantly unbearable. even quick jogs didn't do anything to spark any body heat. i was glad i got a bonnet the night before at SM baguio and eire lent me her cool jacket since she noticed i was shivering in my new mizuno shirt & short tights. :) thanks, eire!

5:00am

at the starting line, there were no lights nearby so we couldn't really see anyone in the dark. there were only a few runners--i think those who ran the 32K race were no more than 60 participants. the host depended on her megaphone to explain the route & reminded us that this was a tough course (thanks for the reminder :P).

we met up with other takbo.ph peeps...mon, roselle, & judah. and guess what...even cris sabal decided to join this race over others that were being held on that day. we had at least 1 celebrity with us. :)

---
with a 3:30 goal for the 30K race, my strategy in this race was to start fast so i can afford to run-walk later on as i got tired. i set my garmin to change laps every 10km with the following target paces per lap:

1st 10KM = 6:30
2nd 10KM = 7:00
3rd 10KM = 7:30

AVERAGE = 7:00/km for 3:30 in 30K

see the actual distance & paces below...

---

5:30am - 0km

gun start! our first 4km was mostly a steep downhill route from burnham park to the corner of kennon & laoakan roads. i shook off the cold after the 1st km with a quick pace and when i reached the lowest point of the race at kennon corner laoakan, i saw that my pace was around 4:54/km! :) not bad for a quick start. then came the steep hills of laoakan. here we go. :P

6:30am - 10km

as laoakan & the road to PMA kept on draining my energy, my pace went down to a net of 6:03 when i reached the 10KM mark. the view along that road was majestic as the road was on a cliffside and all i could see beyond was a light fog covering neighboring mountains on a cold & sunny morning. this is good race weather!

since there was a u-turn point ahead, i saw runners who were ahead of me and just for my amusement, i counted all of them to find out my place at that point. i was 44th at the u-turn point. hmmm... and then on my way back, i noticed that there was relatively a smaller group of runners who were behind me. i had thought that we were 100 runners, but my estimate was that we were no more than 60.

7:45am - 20km

this 2nd part of the race would be the ultimate drainer for me. more than 3/4 of this lap consisted of steep, zigzag uphills so when you're not from baguio, you wouldn't be able to tell how far you needed to run/walk before the hills end. halimaw judah overtook me and i noticed that he never walked on those hills...just did quick steps with ease. mon also caught up with me and we initially decided to push each other up to wherever. he wanted then to give up coz of the killer hills but we encouraged each other to move on.

i said it myself, "it's okay, i did a 6-ish pace in the 1st 10km...i still have some leeway to get the 7:00 average." i did the 2nd 10km in 1:15 with a 7:30/km pace.

9:15am - 30km

before this time, we were on our way up to minesview park, which i would find out later on was the highest point in the entire route. the road had significant residue of horse manure so i was a bit careful not to soil my own mizuno shoes.

at this point, around 25km, i was walking more than running since the roads continued to go uphill. at minesview, i saw a bananaque stand and i did not hesitate to buy one for myself. good thing i brought money. i ate one banana and gave the other one to mon (who eventually shared it with ellen who caught up with us there).

a big surprise was rai rn who also caught up with us. hey, i thought you were ahead of us! it turns out he got lost and passed thru camp john hay because there were no marshals on that turn. too bad for him. :(

we all had a quick chat and then estimated that from where we were, the course was much more than 30km. oh well, better longer than shorter. :P

the banana gave ellen & mon a lot of energy and they went on ahead of me. in my case, the banana just relieved me of hunger since i didn't eat anything before the race...not giving any running power. :) hehe

i reached 30km along the military cutoff road and since i was already familiar with the road, it motivated me to run more as i was nearing the finish line. checking my garmin...3:45...i could still make a sub-4 hours if i wanted to. i pushed on. my pace in this lap was a low 8:59/km.

9:28am - 32.03km

my spirits were revived when i saw burnham park...just a little more! i did my usual all-out sprint around 200m from the finish line. i saw other takbo.ph peeps already there waiting, but it didn't stop me from giving my all to finish strong and below 4 hours! :D yahoo! panting at the finish but very happy to have gone through it all. :)

after this race, i promised myself never to get intimidated by hills again. :)

halimaw judah finished 1st among takbo.ph peeps, mon next, and then ellen finished 9th place in the women's division (43rd overall) and i was glad with my 3:58 time that placed me in 45th overall...probably 36th in the men's division. :P hehe it was all good! the lost & found rai rn next, and then roselle.

kudos to the organizers for the challenging route and, except for the case of rai rn, they did a good job overall and waited for all of the runners to finish. above that, they literally posted the race results right after the race. no other race did this super quick show of the results. :) good for them that there weren't really thousands of runners to write on the manila paper.

with my muscles still aching but my spirits still high, i will definitely join next year's race in baguio. see you there! :)

my garmin details:

_intimidating_baguio_30K_ahead

2009-12-04T00:10:00.006+08:00

intimidating, not intimid8! ;) hehe

it's been almost 8 years since i last went to baguio. :P didn't see it in my vacay list for a long time and work didn't really take me there.

out of curiosity, excitement, and the tingling sense of paranoia that i might get lost during the 30K run, i traced the map of route from the registration form of the 30 for 30 Road Race using runningahead.

here's the drawing of the map from the organizer:

and here's the map c/o runningahead:

you can check it out here.

i'm impressed that the route seems very accurate! :) 30.46km! however, it turns out that the 2nd map seems more intimidating! :P ...which reminds me that i've never had the chance to run beyond 21K and that i'm still in the BLC.

oh well, this challenge seems too enticing and, hey, i love running in the cold weather (we'll see how cold i can go). this is also going to be part of my training for condura. :)

_mizuno_run_club_finale

2009-11-27T12:27:00.007+08:00

the 12th & last session of the weekly mizuno run club was one that we looked forward to because of the 5k relay race that they set up for the class, even if we (or i) didn't expect to win it--we were too intimidated by the kids. :P

of course, our team name had to be "takbo.ph #1" to show our support for the Filipino running community. our team has doc marvin, timmy, sam, and myself.

after a quick 1-round warm-up and the last barrage of drills c/o coach ige, the rules of the 5k relay were explained to the participants. it turned out that each runner had to bring a full bottle of gatorade during his turn and then drink all of it at the mizuno booth before the next runner can follow. :P

at the end of the race, surprisingly, team takbo.ph #1 bagged 2nd place!!! :D we beat the little monsters. :P

no prize or awarding or podium ceremony, but it was all good since we had real fun just by joining the race, with placing as a bonus.

lastly, runnerspeak conducted an interview with our team and...hahaha...yeah, we're probably expecting just 2 seconds (with super editing & cuts) because a lot of it was just us talking crazy. :P

i'm joining the mizuno run club again (repeater like timmy) next year! :)

here are the photos...thanks a lot to eire for this one & the moral support! ;)

last drills session (coach ige probably saying to himself, "sa wakas!" :P)

team takbo.ph #1 after winning 2nd place in the 5k relay! lucky intimid8? :P

takbo.ph class pic w/o the banner

mizuno run club class pic :)

interview by runnerspeak! :) i wonder when this is going to be aired, if at all. :P

more pics here. :)

_mizuno_super_sale!

2009-11-24T21:20:00.004+08:00

get ready for some early Christmas shopping with Mizuno's Year-End Sale coming up next weekend--December 4 to 6--at their Magallanes branch! :D aside from running, great deals also abounding for golf, football, and baseball stuff.

up to 70% off!!!! :) hwaw!

see you there. :)

_levi's_denim_drive_P500_off

2009-11-21T12:26:00.004+08:00

hey, guys! just saw this poster displayed today at levi's store in megamall. apparently, this is going to start tomorrow but they already placed it there for everyone's info.

i asked the store clerk about it and...yes!...it could be any brand of jeans as long as they are still wearable since they will be donated to world vision. she's not yet sure if the P500 discount would apply to ALL pairs of levi's jeans or just the regular priced ones. they have yet to receive the official memo from their head office, she added. well, this one's for tomorrow anyway so we can't blame her. :) also, i don't know if this is for all levi's outlets or just in megamall.

and of course, this would be a blessing for those Takbo.ph BLCers who are taking the contest seriously. :) ...or for those who have an old, over-sized pair of jeans hanging in the closet for ages, waiting for nothing.

confessions_of_a_BLCer

2009-11-19T17:23:00.005+08:00

i miss . . .

inasalicious chicken
corn muffins at kenny rogers
brownies
hopia at globake
kfc chicken
white bread
finetti choco hazelnut spread
muscovado sugar for brewed coffee
sansrival
baklava
chewy cookies
skyflakes
corned beef with garlic & boiled baby potatoes (personal recipe)
joey pepperoni eat all you can pasta
siopao with lotsa sauce
siomai
mooncake with egg
tapsilog
taho
hotcakes/pancakes
pan chicken at pancake house
mcdo big breakfast
beef rendang
calda pizza (have yet to try it)
krispy kreme
dunkin donuts
brothers burger
french fries
hot rocks steak
rodic's tapsi with kamatis on the side
baby back ribs
fish n chips
hungarian sausage
crispy bacon
blueberry danish
smart aleck at breadtalk
buko pie
mojo potatoes at shakey's
max fried chicken
max caramel bar
pistachio ice cream
fish fillet lauriat at chowking
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

:(

_200.8_lbs_and_counting

2009-11-01T12:45:00.004+08:00

me at 200.8 lbs :D (photo courtesy of brando)

biggest loser season 1 (takbo.ph edition) was officially launched last october 30 at TOSH along valero street in makati.

i weighed in at a heavy 200.8 lbs c/o the digital scale brought by rico. i was a bit disappointed since the last time i weighed in was before i went serious with running...about 5 months ago. back then, i was around 206 lbs, meaning i lost only about 5 lbs. in that span of running. i can only blame it on eating too much after a run as i do get very hungry then. :P

i didn't hesitate to join this new challenge as i really wanna lose weight. although i know it's not too healthy to lose a lot of weight in a short period of time--until december 13--this would help me find out for myself how far i can go when it comes to weight loss. :)

hmmm...how should i go about losing x number of lbs? we'll see. :)

_demon_barber_coming_to_town

2009-10-14T11:59:00.006+08:00

sweeney todd is finally here! :D check out click the city for schedules!

one of my few favorite musicals is making its debut here in manila by november and i'm raring to get my ticket today at robinsons galleria! i reserved them at ticketworld a couple of days ago.

if you haven't watched the movie, with johnny depp as the demon barber of fleet street, you just gotta! when i saw it in movie theaters last year (or was it 2 years ago?), i didn't expect it to be a musical. :P and then the first few lines struck me like...uhhh...ooohhh...wow! :D it entertained me from start to finish.

haha ...and a trivia bit i just found out this week is that it was sacha baron cohen (aka borat) who played adolfo pirelli in the movie. i loved the 'adolfo pirelli' song, it was even my phone ringtone for quite some time.

anyway, i'd definitely see this even in the absence of hollywood stars. curious to find out how this would compare to the movie.

very, very looking forward to it! :D

this picture from the movie tells us what the story is all about

one of my favorite scenes in the movie :D

_what_to_expect_in_india

2009-10-04T22:46:00.005+08:00

tomorrow will be the first time i'm visiting india...also the first time i'm feeling a bit 'different' about this trip after hearing a lot of stories/adventures from my colleagues. i'm just keeping my expectations to such level.

to be honest, i do love indian food at new bombay, swagat, & indian by nature. :D yummy chicken tikka masala & naan!

...we'll see. hopefully, i'll be posting my learnings from my short stay there.

this is the video i remembered when i found out that i had to go there for work. :) sooooo funny!! :P one of the segments from conan o'brien. enjoy! :D

india call center

_runner's_world_screensaver

2009-09-29T14:46:00.003+08:00

http://www.runnersworld.com/screensaver/

sharing a nice screensaver from runner's world showing scenic views to fit your running mood with inspiring quotes from notable runners.

if you just wanna show to everyone at home or at work how addicted you are to running... :P

spreading happy thoughts :)

QCIM_KOTR_21k_route_(in)accuracy?

2009-09-22T13:52:00.007+08:00

this post was borne from a recently concluded 21k race that apparently had all garmin users wondering why it was only less than 18k. the organizer had a valid reason, so it's history now.

-----------

my first 21k will be at the QCIM, followed by another 21k the following week, the Adidas KOTR. i'm more serious about QCIM as a timing chip has been provided for accuracy. accuracy! given this, i'd want an accurate course for my benchmark PR.

i tinkered with running ahead just to see how far i might actually go for these 2 races. this would also help me during the actual run in case distance markers wouldn't be provided.

surprisingly, here's what i mapped out based on the routes provided by both organizers...

QCIM - October 18, 2009

QCIM 21k route as mapped
23.74km ?!? i didn't even include yet the run inside the UP-Ayala Land technopark, so it might be nearly 25km in the actual race.

Adidas KOTR - October 25, 2009

KOTR 21k route as mapped
huh? 19.1km? this time, it's less than 21k.

it's either running ahead does a lousy job of calculating or...i dunno. what do you think?

_gift_to_self_for_340km

2009-09-20T16:39:00.007+08:00

the bad news. :(
-----

the condition of my mizuno wave creation 8 is deteriorating. :( these have been used (abused) for less than 5 months, when i started running, with a total mileage of 340km only.

the wear on the outer portion of the right heel is so prominent that you could already see the red material coming out. it's supposed to be black all throughout that portion. this goes to show that i REALLY supinate. :P

heel of the right shoe...notice that the left has some red rubber showing already :(

side view of the same heel at the right side - rubber thickness still acceptable but then...

...the left side barely has any rubber already. :(

anyway, they've given me pain-free running from the 1st time i've used them so...i feel bad i have to retire that pair soon. i'll still try to use these as long-run trainers.

the good news. :D
-----

NEW SHOES! i got a pair of mizuno wave precision 9 (the 10 version isn't available anywhere yet) at mizuno BHS. woohoo! it's green pa, and eire says it looks like a pair of newtons, not just any other plain looking white-with-another-color shoe.

before i finally decided on this one, i was torn between the wave rider 12 & this one, primarily because of the cushioning provided by the rider as advertised. given my big frame, most running geeks might say that i need shoes with good cushioning.

anyway, so i tried the wave rider 12 and i found out that it's narrower than either the creation or the precision. even without socks, i could feel the shoe squeezing my small toes. :P when i tried the precision, it fit really well and yeah, it IS much lighter. however, i'll be careful as this one has much less cushioning that i enjoyed in the creation. so there... :D

i'll take an easy run tomorrow to try them out, and then use them during the 5K mini race this thursday at the mizuno running clinic. :) after that...woohoo! 10K NB power race, here i come! :)

_out_of_your_running_routine _with_mizuno

2009-09-19T11:39:00.009+08:00

if you are:

- a runner who wants to get out of your running routine while having a lot of other newbie/experienced runners there to motivate you

- curious on how fast you can go for half a km after doing 6km...or simply help you gauge yourself on running

- fond of freebies or discounts on running! :P

...the mizuno run club is for you! :D

here are some photos that i grabbed from the running ninja during our 2nd session last thursday night.

listening to coach ige for the night's program

drills, drills, drills :)

takbo.ph photo-ops after the session...with marvin rae, kenkoy runner timmy, nuttybunny marvin

takbo.ph class pic...had to settle for this one coz the regular banner wasn't there :)

with running diva and jai of mizuno

our session had (for intermediate runners):

Warmup - 2.5km
Drills
3 rounds - 3.75km
1 short run - 724m @ 5:12/km
1 short run - 370m @ 4:54/km
Cooldown - 1.25km

there's also a program for new runners, so don't worry. :)

got a 15% discount coupon already! :D woohoo! can't wait for the other goodies in the next sessions!

if you're still interested you can go there this thursday, 7pm at mizuno store, bonifacio high street. remember, it's NOT only for runners who use mizuno running shoes...it's free for all (though the catch is that only mizuno shoe owners get more goodies than the non-mizuno peeps...sounds fair)! :)

_drowning_in_cholesterol_burger

2009-09-17T13:42:00.004+08:00

as i was going through web health articles for runners, i came up this super, anti-health gourmet in the works by kfc. i found it soooooo yummy, so i'm posting this in my blog for future reference...in case i suddenly want to ditch my diet. :P

look at that nice photo of the burger & check the link below... :)

----------------------

KFC's New Double Down Chicken Sandwich is Frightening | Diets in Review Blog

KFC's New Double Down Chicken Sandwich is Frightening | Diets in Review Blog

Posted using ShareThis

_mizuno_run_club_wowness

2009-09-11T13:58:00.008+08:00

i'm so glad my first pair of running shoes is a mizuno. :)

joined the 1st session of the 3rd mizuno run club last night at bonifacio high street and, i must say, it's a fun way to improve your running skills while getting free drinks & other cool freebies.

the club is actually a 12-session training clinic to be held every thursday starting last night (sept. 10) from 7-8:30pm, with the meeting point in front of the mizuno store at bhs. i saw between 30-40 participants there, and i heard it was probably the biggest mizuno group to date.

we started with a 2-round warmup around bhs, which is about 2.5km (others can run around the short loop if they want to, which goes around the street that divides bhs, for a total of 1.7km). did 6 or 7 different kinds of drills, with the 'genuflect' kind of drill really killing my thigh muscles. :P afterwards, time trial for 3 loops around bhs again, followed by a 1-loop cooldown. that's 7.5km total for me! :D

WARMUP = 1.25km
DRILLS
TIME TRIAL = 3.75km @ 5:51/km
COOLDOWN = 1.25km
STRETCHING

by the way, it's not exclusive for mizuno runners. non-mizuno shoe owners can also join, but the only catch is that they don't get the extra gatorade after the session & the coupon with exciting freebies.

here's the coupon with the 1st visit validated for the 15% discount. check out the other freebies on succeeding sessions! :D

with this, i might get myself a new pair of mizuno's soon! :) woohoo! still torn between the wave creation 10 & wave rider 12 though, but i'll figure it out. my current pair is a wave creation 8 that has given me pain-free running.

if you weren't able to join last night, you can still go there next thursday!

_why_see_district_9

2009-09-08T20:17:00.003+08:00

talking about the movie, not any other place here in the metro, i think district 9 deserves good blog reviews, with this being just one of the many other posts by other bloggers.

why should you see it? it's not your usual alien flick. unlike starship troopers, knowing, and other films that involve out-of-this-world species, there's actually a good story underneath the semi-action, semi-drama district 9. it makes us think how good/bad we, as the human race, can really be when faced with a particular situation involving money, power, & self-preservation. the good display of special effects & animation is just a bonus.

rotten tomatoes also praised it with a 90% rating. not that their critics are always right, but i have to agree with this one.

a few thoughts that crossed my mind as i was watching it:

- the first scene made me say to myself, "uh oh! is this another cloverfield or blair witch kind of movie where the cameraman gets to be the movie cameraman?" it turns out to be the usual cinematography. :) whew!

- the main character reminded me of borat because of his accent and personality

- thank God they decided to film it OUTSIDE the US! :D somebody must have tipped the writer. :) ...or they really needed the nigerians.

- i would WANT to have a shirt with the logo below! :D ...not that i support it! :P

_pagadian_slanted_trikes_dried_fish

2009-09-03T17:37:00.006+08:00

once you get there, you'll instantly agree that what makes pagadian very unique are their tricycles that are built for the uphill & downhill streets of this port city in zamboanga del sur.

my first time in the western part of mindanao has brought me here before my afternoon flight back to manila via ozamiz city.

like i just said...

even the roofs are so slanted that the tricycle ID can be placed on them

the passenger in front is about the same level as the one sitting at the back of the motorcycle

passed the weight test! ...didn't tilt the trike :) the guy texting isn't even making an effort. i had a hard time getting on & off it, fyi.

different kinds of dried fish & squid are also very popular here...

although i settled for my favorite durian. :) this native variety had longer spikes and was super sweet. yummy!

this was literally gone in 60 seconds... :)

_getting_lost_in_maragondon

2009-09-01T18:44:00.006+08:00

here right now in ipil, zamboanga sibugay for work. actually my first time in this part of mindanao. wanted to update my blog before retiring for the evening. took us 3 and a half hours to get here from ozamiz city--the nearest airport from this town.

----------

there are times when it's better to shut up than speak your mind.

this is just one of the small things i've picked up during my first orienteering adventure that happened in maragondon, cavite. thoughts of complaining, ranting, and giving up crossed my mind but i decided to keep them to myself to prevent any negative atmosphere from affecting our team, 3 men & a hottie.

imagine going through sharp bamboo branches in an apparently non-existent trail and then going back because it led to nowhere.

think about going down to a steep & muddy slope just to find out that you're going the wrong way.

man, that just...makes you wanna cry out, "what the hell am i doing to myself?!?" :P

there were about 35 teams who participated in the 2nd MIT-MC orienteering competition and i think 14 control points that we had to find in order to finish it. a 1-minute interval between starts of each team was the rule. we started at 10:26am at the gym in front of maragondon city hall went past the hanging bridge for CP1 and then...there. that's when hell broke loose. CP2 was the turning point of the race because NO team could easily find it. that's 36 teams! eventually, of course, it was discovered. took our team 3 hours to find it. even ultrapat almost gave up, would you believe? :P my concern then was our hydration supply which was depleted a little after noon...with CP2 yet to be found.

we finished at around 5:30pm, which makes it a total of 7 hours in the wilderness for our team. i felt sorry for the takbo.ph peeps who decided to go DNF because of the arrangements made with the bus.

despite the ordeal that our team had to face--several scratches from treading through thick bushes, going down slippery mud slopes, crossing rivers waist-high (or even more), sheer FRUSTRATION from not being able to find a particular control point after 3 hours of searching, and not having drinking water in the afternoon heat, i would definitely want to go through the same experience again.

not so many pictures this time because we were too focused on the race... :P hehe

the takbo.ph delegation

team 3 men & a hottie. we unofficially finished 13th place. :) not bad for two 1st timers, i must say.

crossing one of the rivers (this one doesn't compare to the 2 other rivers that we had to face)

trophies at the finish. the only picture showing how messed up i was after the race. i missed the awarding because i had to get my car. congrats to cindy & gab for bagging 2nd runner up! :D

_garmin:_break_free_from_fixed_routes

2009-08-29T10:24:00.006+08:00

haven't had the chance to run in the last 3 days since i had work in mindanao. i was feeling weak...and fat because of the tuna belly i gobbled up during my trip. my flight back to manila from gensan yesterday got me pondering on getting a garmin for my runs. and then it shifted to which model i should buy--the 305 or 405.

before touchdown at naia, i finally said to myself, "i'm getting a GF405...today!" :P well, if it were possible. thought about the long weekend and i wanted to maximize it in the 1st few days. checked out ebay.ph and confirmed to buy it from jaywalker888. i requested (demanded) to get it that same night when i clicked BUY on the item. went all the way to qc just for it and closed the transaction at 9pm. went home, impatiently waited for it to charge, downloaded software while waiting, and there! :D

here's my 8k morning run using it for the first time!

i used runningahead.com to generate this map coz i still didn't have the right map in the garmin training center application.

a post in a takbo.ph thread mentioned that the garmin isn't a necessity, but a great tool for runners who want to be precise on their improvements in the sport. i agree completely.

i'll probably give it a month before i make a review. :)

_with_a_happy_ending

2009-08-24T13:01:00.008+08:00

i decided not to place a title that would give too much of a negative impression on yesterday's levi's fun run at bhs. after all, this blog is about happy thoughts. :) i almost forgot.

compared to other races i've joined, this one had the least number of participants, most likely because it was done on the same day as the botak paa-tibayan at UP. my estimate would be no more than 500 runners. given this one, they then decided to give the same gun start for the 1.5/3/5K races.

the happy ending here is that walker's run finished 2nd in the female division in the 1.5K race! woohoo! she got a medal & levi's jeans! also, i finally managed to conquer sub-30 in the 5K race. i timed myself at 29:03...still waiting for the official results. my next goal for now is to do 10K under an hour. a sub-25 for 5K can wait. :P

PROS:
- preferred race for a PR, if you can record your own time
- sponsored drinks at the end of the race

CONS:
- no big-display timer at the start/finish line
- took a looong time for them to award the winners (had time-recording issues)
- limited freebies (i didn't get any)
- no singlet for some runners -> would you believe until now they still haven't provided me a singlet coz they ran out of it? :P

my overall personal rating is 3 out of a 5. the robinson's fit & fun buddy run last july still tops my list.

patiently (?) waiting for the gun start

...and we're off! doc marvin braved the running mob.

near the finish line. "gotta make sub-30!"

small but chirpy takbo.ph / dailymile contingency

and there's the happy ending! :)

-----

all photos c/o doc marvin. thanks a lot for being the 'photovendo' of the day and for waiting just to take a pic of the walker's run when she got her medal! :D

_pioneer_ortigas_kapitolyo_experimental_route

2009-08-20T21:54:00.005+08:00

tinkering with runningahead got me to create experimental 5K, 10K, & 15K routes from my place.

here's the 10K route passing through pioneer-ortigas center-kapitolyo. long weekend! :D if i wake up tomorrow morning before 6am, i'd most likely try this one.

if i don't talk about it, it means i opted to sleep instead. :P

_finish_line_burst

2009-08-19T15:32:00.007+08:00

i really get a sudden rush of energy (what's actually left of it) when i'm within 200m from the finish line of a race. i even shout to the other walkers "push na! push!" considering that they would have to run just a wee bit more.

i gasp for air with less than 50m while keeping my crazy pace.

it's like i don't give a damn if i lose my breath or collapse once i reach the checkered flag saying to myself, "never mind if there's no water or anything after the finish, somebody will eventually help you when you collapse & lose your consciousness." :P

_starbucks_tumbler_art_experiment

2009-08-18T14:37:00.008+08:00

i got myself a new starbucks 12-oz. tumbler last night after my bhs run, the one where you can change the design whenever you want.

i haven't actually printed any new design, but i fiddled with photoshop to come up with 4 rough studies.

study #1. title: takbo.ph community. although the faces can be seen clearly, the blow-up of 1 photo seemed too simple.

study #2. title: takbo.ph class pictures. always the post-race ritual. :)

study #3. title: i am ultrapat.

study #4. title: why do i run? photo taken at bhs during a night run with a little drizzle & the clear moon.

my personal favorites are the 3rd & 4th ones. i'll try to figure out what i really want for my coffee tumbler. :)

in case you're interested, go get yourself one! :D

-> starbucks has a page with printable designs here.

-> on the other hand, if you prefer to create your own design using photoshop, a template can be found here.

_urban(ite)_learnings

2009-08-17T12:50:00.009+08:00

by now, a lot of bloggers might have already talked about the kenny rogers open urbanite run (or KOUR) last saturday night.

my 12 learnings from this experience:

1.) out of the 7 races i've joined this year, i would consider the robinson's fit & fun buddy run as the best race i've participated in. this was organized by xtribe last july. i'd give that one a 5 out of 5 while this one minus 1 or 1 & a half stars.

why? they had very convenient registration points, a reasonable price, a good route, a lot of water stations, AND drinks & goodies right at the finish line. kudos to xtribe for the fit & fun buddy run!

with this, i'm expecting a good event come the new balance power race next month, on september 27.

2.) registering early doesn't guarantee a smooth flow in getting your race kit. a number of irate runners expressing their thoughts at takbo.ph would attest to this. however...

3.) ...it is still better to register early for a race. at least 3 weeks before the race or the registration deadline. there has been a constant reminder sent out in an article. you would have better chances of having a stress-free time in getting your kit, and you can later on put all the blame on the organizer if they fumble. :P

4.) technology or innovation in a race isn't enough. organizing it effectively makes it complete. see #2.

5.) be ready to run again right after you reach the finish line if you're thirsty...this time to look for a water station. an alternative would be not pushing too hard near the finish if you know that water will be a scarcity after you cross the finish line.

6.) not seeing the road that well can affect your pace...or my pace, at least, because you'd be careful not to have your foot land on an uneven surface.

7.) to line up for a loot bag may be too much for some runners who've just finished a long & hilly race.

8.) morning runs are here to stay because of (1) the traffic situation, (2) morning people, and (3) the ever-growing trend of running.

9.) mckinley hills as a race route is not my ideal route for a PR, but the challenge is a great experience.

10.) class or individual picture-taking will remain to be a key activity for takbo.ph peeps after races.

11.) if you're looking forward to race pictures of you posted in FB, multiply, or in any other blog site and fail to find one, try not to be DNF in the next race. DNF being Did Not Ficture. :P

12.) glow in the dark, shmow in the dark :P

_another_reason_for_running

2009-08-13T09:07:00.004+08:00

...or keeping yourself physically active, to avoid early mental deterioration. :)

i got this e-mail from my boss this morning and i find it too good to be just tucked in my inbox.

-----

OVERCOMING DEMENTIA

Most of us start worrying about dementia after retirement - and that may be too little, too late. Experts say that if you really want to ward off dementia, you need to start taking care of your brain in your 30s and 40s - or even earlier.
"More and more research is suggesting that lifestyle is very important to your brain's health," says Dr. Paul Nussbaum, a neuropsychologist and an adjunct associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. "If you want to live a long, healthy life, then many of us need to start as early as we can."

So what can you do to beef up your brain - and possibly ward off dementia? Nussbaum, who recently gave a speech on the topic for the Winter Park ( Fla. ) Health Foundation, offers 20 tips that may help.

1. Join clubs or organizations that need volunteers. If you start volunteering now, you won't feel lost and unneeded after you retire.

2. Develop a hobby or two. Hobbies help you develop a robust brain because you're trying something new and complex.

3. Practice writing with your nondominant hand several minutes everyday. This will exercise the opposite side of your brain and fire up those neurons.

4. Take dance lessons. In a study of nearly 500 people, dancing was the only regular physical activity associated with a significant decrease in the incidence of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. The people who danced three or four times a week showed 76 percent less incidence of dementia than those who danced only once a week or not at all.

'pamela dance lessons with argo, anyone?'

5. Need a hobby? Start gardening. Researchers in New Zealand found that, of 1,000 people, those who gardened regularly were less likely to suffer from dementia! Not only does gardening reduce stress, but gardeners use their brains to plan gardens; they use visual and spatial reasoning to lay out a garden.

6. Buy a pedometer and walk 10,000 steps a day. Walking daily can reduce the risk of dementia because cardiovascular health is important to maintain blood flow to the brain.

7. Read and write daily. Reading stimulates a wide variety of brain areas that process and store information. Likewise, writing (not copying) stimulates many areas of the brain as well.

8. Start knitting. Using both hands works both sides of your brain. And it's a stress reducer.

9. Learn a new language. Whether it's a foreign language or sign language,you are working your brain by making it go back and forth between one language and the other. A researcher in England found that being bilingual seemed to delay symptoms of Alzheimer's disease for four years. And some research suggests that the earlier a child learns sign language, the higher his IQ - and people with high IQs are less likely to have dementia. So start them early.

10. Play board games such as Scrabble and Monopoly. Not only are you taxing your brain, you're socializing too. Playing solo games, such as solitaire or online computer brain games can be helpful, but Nussbaum prefers games that encourage you to socialize too.

11. Take classes throughout your lifetime. Learning produces structural and chemical changes in the brain, and education appears to help people live longer. Brain researchers have found that people with advanced degrees live longer - and if they do have Alzheimer's, it often becomes apparent only in the very later stages of the disease.

12. Listen to classical music. A growing volume of research suggests that music may hard wire the brain, building links between the two hemispheres. Any kind of music may work, but there's some research that shows positive effects for classical music, though researchers don't understand why.

13. Learn a musical instrument. It may be harder than it was when you were a kid, but you'll be developing a dormant part of your brain.

14. Travel. When you travel (whether it's to a distant vacation spot or on a different route across town), you're forcing your brain to navigate a new and complex environment. A study of London taxi drivers found experienced drivers had larger brains because they have to store lots of information about locations and how to navigate there.

15. Pray. Daily prayer appears to help your immune system. And people who attend a formal worship service regularly live longer and report happier, healthier lives.

16. Learn to meditate. It's important for your brain that you learn to shut out the stresses of everyday life.

17. Get enough sleep. Studies have shown a link between interrupted sleep and dementia.

18. Eat more foods containing omega-3 fatty acids: Salmon, sardines, tuna, ocean trout, mackerel or herring, plus walnuts (which are higher in omega 3s than salmon) and flaxseed. Flaxseed oil, cod liver oil and walnut oil are good sources too.

19. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants in fruits and vegetables mop up some of the damage caused by free radicals, one of the leading killers of brain cells.

20. Eat at least one meal a day with family and friends. You'll slow down, socialize, and research shows you'll eat healthier food than if you ate alone or on the go.

-----

hey, there goes another reason to keep on writing too. :) my blog has a more meaningful purpose after all, at least for myself.

_motorists_should_avoid_the_fort_on_saturday

2009-08-10T19:58:00.005+08:00

as a fellow Filipino motorist, i understand how drivers would want to avoid heavy traffic during the morning & evening rush hours. yes, yes, it's traffic everywhere but this one is going to be extra special.

this saturday evening, please avoid plowing through the fort. i don't know how the organizers managed to close these roads for runners participating in the urbanite run, but they did a hell of a job with the routes. i was expecting loops within the fort near bhs, but nooooo...they decided to take over bayani road & mckinley park. :)

this is the 10k map that i'm running...my 2nd 10k and i'm ambitiously aiming for a sub-60 despite lack of training. hey, they say it's better to undertrain than overtrain...we'll see.

if you wanna check out the other routes, click on http://kennys.com.ph/kour_route.php

like i said, please avoid driving through the fort on saturday unless you're a glutton for heavy traffic. :P

good luck to all the racers! :)

_expect_him_to_run

2009-08-07T12:26:00.005+08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIOAq0roZM8

saw this from another runner's blog (RunningShield) and i couldn't stop myself from reposting it! :P thanks, patrick.

_manda_run_for_cory

2009-08-05T09:11:00.007+08:00

had a good early morning run today with the mandaluyong group run for cory. a little above 10k according to mccoy, and according to google earth daw. slow short distance (SSD), he says. we started at 7-11 at boni avenue corner EDSA, going thru boni to the rotonda, down to kalentong, back to shaw boulevard, right at pioneer street and back again to boni ave. all from 5:20am to 7:00am.

present were mccoy, jaycee, ro ann, alan, loren, doc eire (all the way from tagaytay), and me--7 total. we were a very small group compared to those in qc & makati, but it was still worth the short sleep.

j.p. rizal avenue

a heavy downpour midway added to the fun. :) used my phone for the pics, and i'm glad i didn't bring a camera.

shaw boulevard (with the rain)

the uphill at the shaw boulevard flyover with the rain & wind felt great. (naunahan daw ni doc eire si mccoy dito) :)

back at home & wondering if we'll join the 6pm run later in makati...hmmmm... :)

_heavy_or_light_running_shoe_promo

2009-08-04T19:07:00.005+08:00

just to eliminate any sleepless nights (for myself?) over the adidas promo, this is what was explained to me by a store clerk over at the adidas store in megamall this afternoon.

as it turns out you get a discount regardless if your running shoe is heavier or lighter than the adiZero shoe corresponding to your shoe size, not necessarily 265 grams.

the ad alone is misleading. anyway, go avail the promo & grab an adidas if you want one! :)

thanks to adidas megamall for the enlightenment. :)