Unscathed @ the Skyway -’must have done something right…..’

As I was preparing for my first full marathon, I did not only prepare for D-day but also for the days after.  I did not schedule anything on a Monday.  I signed and sent out everything due for the week after.  My driver’s bag has salonpas.  There is one in my car.  I gave one set to my friend Rhea.  These are all in preparation for a possible injury, muscle pains, cramps, or anything that could possibly slow me down during or  after the Marathon.

D-day comes…each kilometer was slowly conquered….hills were climbed…downhills attacked…and survived the flats under the heat of the sun…and there I was, running the sweetest 50k run to the Finish Line.

Other than congratulations, almost everyone would ask me – Kumusta? Anything painful? And I would pause, then say, Wala.  Am I in denial or what?

I went home and got the same question…Wala talaga!

I woke up on Monday morning and I am soooo okay…and I have nothing scheduled for the day (haha..praning kasi!) Had a slow breakfast, worked from home, answered emails, chat here and there, facebook, Takbo.ph SB (I seldom do this).  At 5pm, I’ve got nothing else to do already.  I was torn between going to the gym or having a recovery run.  So I texted Coach to ask what I should do…20minutes jog and stretching. Great! The sun is still up so I heard mass first before heading to Ultra.

I was on my second laps at Ultra when Frank Indapan (an Elite Team Bald Runner) appeared behind me.  He is also doing a recovery run.  We ran together and he shared the Bald Runner Team’s winning stories last Sunday while I shared my feat to finish my first marathon.  Before I realized 20min jog turned into a 30 minutes run. (My Run:Frank’s Slow Jog).

I got the same question again from Frank —- if there was anything painful as we were running. None, really.  So I still joined Frank in a few minutes of drills (which aims to losen up the muscles).  He asked the same question in every stretch we made.  And I said, “Wala talaga painful.  I must have done something right?!?”  And he agreed and from the looks in his face, he finally believed I am okay

So, what could that be?  Before D-day…..

Strength Training

• Since day one of my training, Coach asked me to go back to the gym and focus on strength training on the legs. I didn’t comply immediately but made promises weekly until Coach gave me tips on the use of elastic band instead as an exercise if I can’t make it to the gym.  And I did.  Eventually, I went back to the gym once a week. ( I have a lifetime enrollment since 2004 anyway, might as well use it.)

Speed Training

• I hate these interval trainings.  It is a series of repetitions of work (50m,60-40,200,400,800) with recovery periods in between.  At the Ultra oval on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, we would hit the oval together with my classmates from the Bald Runner Clinic/Speed Training, doing all sorts of workouts.  It would normally startwith negotiations with Coach.  ”Coach, lima na lang…wag ten”…or ha, 800?, continuous run na lang”.  Coach Titus doesn’t give in though.  And I know, it is for the better.  So I gotta love it!

Drills

As part of our warm up for a speed session and as part of a running strength/core conditioning session, Coach would always incorporate various drills on certain days.  Drills pa lang, ubos na energy namin.  But then again, it was good that Coach never gave in to our requests for discount on the drills.

LSDs

My program doesn’t really include a very high milleage build-up.  I guess Coach realized its impossible for me to meet such so he made adjustments.  He only required me to do long runs on weekends (21-35k), peaking and then tapering on certain weeks.  Some of my favorite long runs:

Boso-Boso—Sierra Madre

http://2timothy.wordpress.com/2010/01/11/one-of-the-boys-at-the-rolling-hills-of-rizal/

C-6 .  Green Meadow . Mc Kinley

http://2timothy.wordpress.com/2010/01/13/blast-from-the-past-my-holiday-runs/

Roxas

http://2timothy.wordpress.com/2010/02/03/a-podium-finish-feeling-elite-at-the-assumption-run/

They say that no matter what amount or what kind of training you had, it could still be a different story on RACE DAY.

This might or might not have scientific basis, but from my experience, I could probably attribute it to the following:

Pacing at an Average 6:45.

• I tried to keep at such pace or lower to 7, peak to 6 throughout.  A little faster on downhills and whenever there is a band playing…I was able to conserve so much energy that I still have enough from 30th to the Finish Line.
  • During one of our 10x 400m repetitions, Coach gave pointers on when to peak, maintain and speed up.  That was one of my most enjoyable 400m workout where I was able to hit 1:40 min to 1:50.  Hmmm might as well apply the same strategy on race day.

Proper hydration

• Thanks to Condura Organizers for having enough water stations!  I took water in every station even when I don’t need it.  I didn’t bring my hydration belt…

Proper Nutrition -

• I took GU Gel every 10kilometer-Thanks to Randy and Jerry who trained me on using this as a supplement during our Bosoboso run and to Iah for the tips before gunstart.  I also have jelly beans which supplements the absence of sports drink.  (I am used to taking Gatorade and carbonated drinks really doesn’t work on me well).

Switching Running Styles

• Coach taught us some styles of running that we can use when we want to speed up, when the muscles are tired, or  when we want to take it slowly…He didn’t really give specifics on when to use, or when not use.  He trained us to use those styles  and do shiftings during some of our continuous runs at Ultra.  Indeed it works! At some point I would feel a little stinging pains on some muscle groups.  This reminds me to switch my style and the pain disappears.  At some point also, I would feel I am heel striking (as some of my pics would show).  Whenever I could hear my feet sounding off as it hits the ground, I know I am not doing it right.

Good Company

• I ran the race until the 30th kilometer with Michie, Jopeng and Jim (My friends from Lingkod).  Cheering each other throughout was a big help.  At the 30th onwards, I decided to push.
• The cheers from my new found friends from the running community also helped.  Most of them are running ahead so we would see each other on turnarounds.  I realized I’ve gained so many new friends since I took running seriously.  512 FB friends now and most of the new ones are from running…

Again, these are just my thoughts.  Pardon me for not really expounding on most of the things I shared.   (I might misquote Coach and mislead you hahaha)….You may contact Coach directly though, I can give you his number or join the BR trainings at the Ultra every Tue-Wed-Fri 6 to 8:30.

Lastly, I really prayed hard for this race.  In fact, when my friend Marcus asked me for any prayer intention when he went on a retreat weeks ago, I texted: Item 1, Item 2 and Item 3 CONDURA MARATHON….

I prayed not just for a good finish but for me to reach the finish line UNSCATHED….

and I did! After a 4 hour, 49 minute and 14 second feat… I stepped on the mat and claimed the title: MARATHONER!

P.S.

Told you, not an expert here…and I am not that fast hahaha….just thankful to finish my first with a decent finish time and unscathed….

Conquering the Skyway & My First Full Marathon… Definitely Not the Last….

Training – Check

Gears- Check

Support group/cheerers-Check

Sleep -xxxxx

I have been waking up every hour, I’ll say a prayer and get myself back to sleep then wake up again…Its 1:30, might as well get up so I won’t have to rush.  Called up driver (call time 2am) and was so praning giving instructions on his waiting area while having breakfast…….It is race day!

Fast forward to 3:30am, I am already standing at the starting line for 42Kers – yes, a full marathon! Allow me to digress and flash back:

• May 2009- It was my first 10k race and while having breakfast at Mcdonalds with Jobaqs, Michi and other friends from the community, we could see 42kers running back to Fort at 10am.
  • me – “No way shall I run under the heat at such time…I’m fine with 10K…”
• October 2009 – After QCIM and my 2nd 21K, I posted on Jobaqs, fb account – “Go for Feb 7!”   It took me a month though to tell Coach Titus -” Coach, can I run a marathon na?”  And Coach said – “Sige, kaya na, gawan kita ng program.  Condura?”   Me: “Oh…hmmm…joke lang coach, pero sige.”

Back to February 7, at quarter to four – the mood was so festive, it takes away my nervousness.  I saw BR clinic buddies Mark, Nam, Randy and Jerry-they will run together.  I know these guys are gonna PR so I stayed behind.  Michi and I will stick to a 7 pace for the first half.  I was chatting with Iah minutes before gunstart, getting some pointers on the use of GU -thanks Iah! ……

With my Good Friends from Lingkod - Jopeng and Michie...We will run a good race...at a good pace!

“I’ve got a feeling, that tonight’s gonna be a good night…”

I've got a feeling....Yes, It was a good, good race! Thanks to Ton and Patrick Concepcion!

..the fireworks displayed and ….10…9…8…3..2..1…we’re off!

First Leg: Start to Bayani Road and Back then Up to Buendia

The plan was to run the first half at a 7min/k pace.  Garmin says, we averaged 6:45 peaking at some point to 5, especially at downhills…Jopeng and Jim stayed behind to keep themselves from speeding up, conserving energy for the crucial leg.  It was also my first experience of running in the dark.  (I wonder if the reflector was working). I took my first GU gel at Kalayaan flyover…(I hope Norman is able to drive to Petron in time-I need to get two more GU for the 20th and 30th k)..

So happy to see Norman at Petron, everything is going on as planned.  I took two GU and some beans and sipped some Gatorade.  Then we’re off…oops…we forgot to take pics

Skyway: Here we come!

Setting my foot on the skyway, after a few hundreds of meters-I thanked God for bringing me that far! As I read on one of the inspirational signage- “The miracle is that I had the courage to start….”… This is a miracle in itself -I have conquered the Skyway!

We maintained the pace -Jopeng, Jim and Michi…high five each other for each kilometer done!  We are nearing halfway!  I had my 2nd GU gel at that time.  Nearing the turnaround point, we saw friends running back.  It feels good cheering each other as we make our way to the 22nd k.

Condura Hill! Scary? Not!

From afar, we can see the Skyway Interchange leading to NAIA with runners climbing.  I remember the first time I saw the interchange while driving, I said – “I could never drive that road.”  (really, I have fear of heights)….

Climbing the hill turned out not that bad at all with a Band playing whose rythm seems to be in tuned with my every stride.  And there goes the downhill! This is it!!!  Condura hill conquered!

At the turnaround, the bystanders (don’t think they are marshalls) were taking our pics using their camera phone while cheering us.  Thanks to the Manongs!  Pa-mms ng picture namin ha…hehe (I forgot to give my number).  It sure was a boost as we approach the 30th (defined as the wall!)

The Wall

As we climb back to the skyway, garmin says 30th.  It probably was the longest distance where there is no water station in sight.  And the sun was up! (Or was it just psychological, as they say this is the critical distance, a critical point).  I chew the remaining beans I have.  A few meters away – water station is in sight!  Thank God!  I took my third GU then…It wasn’t a wall after all.

Michie asked me at that point if we are not taking a walking break.  Me: ” I didn’t really plan to but if you want, I can just slowdown my pace.”  And there she goes speeding up.  Walking break nga…

And then we landed…

As we approached the Buendia off ramp, it was so refreshing to see Maricar Sugayan (she is a former member of our prayer group, Lingkod – and have been running marathons even when it was not a boom yet).  I haven’t seen her for a while, we wanna make chika  but I guess we can do it some other time.  Thanks Atty!

I am looking forward to landing from the Skyway.  I am looking forward to the Takbo.ph Aid station and to seeing my friends who are stationed at the Pasong Tamo.  Not that I badly need anything at that time, but the cheers and the smiles….all the festivities out there is what we needed more….

Lyrah-the lookout                                                       Mark,Benette and Rhea – sitting down while waiting (Are they bored or enjoying the sighting of Manong?)

Rhea is so ready with my Gatorade! Thanks bestee!

Seeing Anne and Rhea – friends since high school, Ate Benette – cousin and good friend and my Pilak layouting buddy, Lyrah and Leo – friends from Lingkod was a great, great booster….Thanks guys!  I know you waited for an hour and saw us for two minutes…

At this point also, I am to decide if I can push further or not.  And I decided to push….

And what more can I ask for? Bessie ran with me from that point onwards.  I told him, we’ll do a 6-6:30 pace.  At that point, I was concentrating on my pace and I started conserving my energy.  Bessie served as our Ambassador, shouting back- Thank you Manong! Good morning! and Go! Kaya pa! throughout…..

Last 10K...with Bessie

As we went down Buendia-Kalayaan flyover – it was a surprise to see bestees Anne and Rhea again…So I got great pictures.  Anne told me, except for the fact that I am all sweaty, I still was so hyper and doesn’t look like I’ve ran a 37k already.  (We really are friends!)

The Last 5K After the Buendia Flyover

The Longest Five-Kilometer Run of My Life So Far

It’s 5k to go, yet it seems so far.  At this point, all I could think of is putting one foot infront of another.  I had my breathing in sync with a silent chant – left,right,THANK GOD!…..Until I got distracted by my own shadow.  OMG! My hair is a mess —- haha…I fixed my pony tail at the last 2k and again at the last 500 meters.

As I made my last turn from 32nd street, people were shouting “Congratulations!” Marathon done!” etc., etc…Thanks guys!!!

Turning left to the finish line…I could hear cheers: first – friends from Lingkod (who were near the corner), then my Bosoboso LSD friends (Jan,Neil and Ysmael and others), and my BR clinic training friends-Randy and Jerry plus everyone else.  I heard someone shouting – 4:49-Go! Sub 4:50…Oh faster and woah 4:49:14….I could hear cheers on the background and I could not define how it feels.  (feels like you wanna hug someone —– Buti na lang ang nasa end ng railings si Tere).

Tere and Nam at the Finish Line

Indeed, to God be the Glory! Thank God for the strength and for blessing me with good friends who helped and guided me in this feat.

Thanks to my Bald Runner Clinic Friends —— the Marathoners who broke their PRs and did well on their first —Randy (4:31) and Jerry (4:27), Mark (4:16), Nam (4:20), Iah (4:30)…Tere (21k at 2:15)

with Randy and Jerry - thanks guys!

Thanks to the Elite Team Bald Runner —– the Wannabes owe it to you! especially to Frank and Alquin…Congratulations!  They are not only fast, humble, helpful and fun to train with.

Thanks to Coach Titus! —- For being patient….I can hear you saying at the skyway: Bounce, Bounce! Quick,Short Stride! Takbong Tamad! —- it works Coach! —- the different running styles we learned from you saved me from tiring my muscles, shifting from one to another when I feel like I need it.  No injuries! Decent Finish Time….and no dead toenails this time

Thanks to Bald Runner – Sir Jovie, You really are an inspiration to us!

Thanks to my Running Buddies from Lingkod – Michie, Jobaqs and Jopeng! from UP runs to Antipolo, from 10ks to a Full Marathon….We will continue to run the good race! And our team is growing!

Team Lingkod-Ligaya - Kudos to the Five new Marathoners and two Second Timers who broke their PRs!

Thanks to my friends – to those who were physically present to cheer and support us and to those who prayed for us!

My two Bestees and Bessie

And the story continues……what’s next?

An Extra Dosage of Faith Will Take Me to the Finish Line

Two days before the Condura Marathon, I woke up and started the day thinking about it and came up with my own checklist before I go into my morning prayers.  Here’s what I got:

Training – I guess I have given my best and TRIED to strictly follow Coach Titus’ Program.  I am quite sure though he wants to give me a “Pasaway” award as for the most part he had to adjust it given my dozens of excuses: (had party, had to work, had no sleep) = (didn’t run long, didn’t do strength training, didn’t attend clinic @ultra).  My recent workouts and long runs though have shown improvements on my speed and endurance so I hope it works out well this Sunday.

Gear – I’m all set.  Got a Nike top (exactly the same as my favorite white tops but this time its red orange), my fave adidas shorts (thanks to my sis Lala! She bought it for herself, never used it and it stayed in my cabinet), my Adidas Supernova Glide that I got last December, an Adidas socks, Nike visor (a gift from my sis).   My sister would again tell me – “it’s a no, no in fashion to wear two known brands together”.  But sis, this is a marathon, not a fashion show.  Next time, buy me a complete set so I don’t violate the fashion rule.

Relaxation – With all the demands from work, I guess my prayers got answered for a less stressful work week.  My meetings were all confined to a “meet and greet” thing, some good news came in this week and my team is at their best (nasabi ko yata na pag di ko natapos ang marathon, walang sweldo hahaha).  Will try to get some good sleep tonight till Saturday (hmm except that I organized a dinner for my friend, Patty tonight which turn out to be at the same venue as the Takbo.ph CLP).

So, this is it!  I have never imagined myself running a full marathon — in fact, up to now, I still can not.

As I brought my feat into prayers this morning, I came across this passage:

(Hebrews 11:1) Faith makes us sure of what we hope for and gives us proof of what we cannot see.

And it all came in so clear to me.   That all I have to do is BELIEVE!

Believe that I can do it!……Now, all I need is an extra dosage of Faith.

God bless us from the start to the finish line!

Thanks to Running! The Usual Question Has Changed….

To those reading this post who are still single and probably at a legally allowed marrying age, I am sure you could relate to the usual questions during Family gatherings (kasal, binyag, libing….reunions, etc) —– So, why are you still not married? When will you follow (if in a wedding) or Get married na so you’ll have kids soon (during binyags)…..

I am soooo ready with my answers for my sisters wedding last January 23…..but lo and behold! I rarely got one….

and my top three questions were:

1. did you go to the beach? Why are you so dark? Why do you have tan lines?
   • ah tita, i’m into running and yadayaydaaya…..
2. Your mom told me you run, so ilang kilometer ang marathon mo?
   • ah 42k po tita.  42K po ang marathon (I guess there is no need to explain the difference or I might bore her and get her to ask her standard question)
3. Seems like you are a lot thinner than before…But you look fit, di na payatot
   • Thanks po!  Kayo din po di na tabachoy (of course, the last line is in my bubble thoughts)

I guess it was all worth it.  Running…the trainings….the tan lines…

Congrats to my younger sister, Mimi! and to my new brother, Jobert!!!

my three sisters

the entourage- all in Sasha bridals gown. Love it!

a Podium Finish?!? feeling elite at the Assumption Run

Whenever I go home after a race or even LSDs on Sunday mornings, my mom would always ask me – “So, did you win?” And I would always say – “yeah, soonnn…”.  So, when I brought home my first 21k finishers medal (from QCIM), I proudly showed it and said —-” I won!”   But I guess my Mom was smart enough and asked me – Why is there no engraving of your place? Ah huh….

Last Sunday, I went home with a medal and it says “2nd Place – Women’s Category” .  Really, I was at second place! ….. all my sister said while looking at my medal was – Oh, it’s true? How come? (deep inside though, I know she’s proud of ate hahaha)

How Come?

The morning of Sunday should have been our last training run for Condura.  Running the 21k route of Assumption was the plan, plus probably 4k more.  We were not registered.  It is going to be a relaxed pace at 7min/k for us.

Before 5am, we were already gathered near the assembly area of Assumption and uhhh it was still so quiet, you can count the number of runners.  We registered!

At the starting line, there were only about thirty to fifty runners for 21K.  So I joked, top three na ko sa female!  But I won’t (My mind is not prepared to race this….i lack sleep…i might injure myself ….yadayada).

As I heard the gun fire, I had to run really fast as I was on the first lane.  So, this is how it feels, right?

I was running between 4:30-5:30 with Iah for the first kilometer to the 2nd until I decided to drop and keep it at 6.  Mark and AJ showed up and ran with me.  It was still kwento pace at 5:50 to 6 until we see a female runner in blue ahead of us at the 5th kilometer.  Even before Mark said, “tara unahan mo lang”, I was already into it.  So, I overtook her.  Mark would look back and say, “okay lang to, relax.  Malayo pa sumunod.”  And so we just maintained at 6 until we reach the first turnaround.

“First Female Runner” – the marshall said as she wrote down my number…..Really, huh! (can i get my medal na?)

A few hundred meters after turnaround though, I saw another female runner in white racer back top (exactly the same as what I was wearing)

At the eleventh kilometer, she overtook me. So, I ran faster overtook her, then she did it again and I did it again….until I saw her form —– “Ah, Mark, the legs are quite intimidating.  Let’s just stay behind. “….. and there she goes flying at the flyover — while I dropped to 6:14 pace while climbing it.

Downhill —- my favorite! I said, I got you at this.  But, Oh no! – it seems like its her favorite also.

“Second Female Runner” – the marshall announced and said – Malapit lang….hmmm

After the first flyover, on the way back – we changed the game plan.  This is supposed to be an LSD!?! – So, be it but let’s keep the second place.

As female runner and I met at the turnaround, the people around her said.  “Uy, yan na ang kalaban mo”.  hahaha…ganun pala feeling…We maintained a 6-6:30 pace back.  At this time, a brother from my prayer group- Matt, saw us and joined up, adding more fun to my feat for a podium finish.

Female runner was about 400 meters away at the last two kilometers.  I wanted to push it, I can but I know I shouldn’t.

So, we decided to just cool down at the last kilometer at 7min/k pace.  I already have the second place in the bag by then.  What more can I ask for?

At the finish line, cameras were flashing —- and they were not my friends! And so, yeah, I really won!

Tere and I always refer to ourselves as “Team Bald Runner- the wannabe version” (for there is an Elite Team who helps Coach titus oversee our speed trainings at the ULTRA).  For ONCE, I don’t feel like a wannabe — feels like an elite!

Thanks to my training Buddies from the bald runner team! It was a good Sunday run!…let’s start loving the intervals and the repetitions of Coach. Cheers to the Elite Team BR and to BR! (for once we felt how it is to be in your shoes at the races).

top 3 female finishers for 21K

with the top 3 male finishers

Iah finished at 5th Place-Overall!

with Mari - first place - Men's category for 21K

Group Pic with the Team BR training Buddies - Mari (will be like him when we grow up!), Nam (BDM finisher soon!), Mark (Coach' spirit is in him), Iah (a Mari in the making) and our NFF ----male 2nd placer

another group pic with Michi (my friend from Lingkod) and AJ (he's fast despite the injury!)

Blast from the Past-My Holiday Runs

No, this is not going to be a movie review (I haven’t turned into one for the new year).  Though right now, I do feel like a naive Adam Fraser coming out of the nuclear shelter as I blog  again.  Where shall I start?  My stories are all so ancient already…

But, of course, before we move into another season, let me greet everyone a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!

Baras' sky-high Christmas tree made of umbrellas donated by my townmates

So, where have I been hiding —— or running?

As the advent season started, my training for the Condura Marathon officially started (Yes, a bit late). So, let me rephrase it.  It was the time I strictly (or at least near to it) followed Coach Titus’ training program.

NOV 29 – The New Balance Power Run

This was one of the races affected by Ondoy (ohhh you’ve read all about that)…..I’ve never done the hills.  In fact, I tried to avoid it especially when I’m in UP for long runs (I always find a better route).

I came to the race hoping for a PR, a really better one.  My first half mary was at 2:27 @ Globe.  Three months after, a 2:15 would be nice….I was still on pace to meet my goal until we entered the Mc Kinley and I got my first “hill” lessons…..  I crossed the finish line at 2:21 (well, still a PR).

DEC 6 – I came! I saw! I conquered!

I’ve never been to Corregidor.  The first time I read about this, I got so excited, I posted it to all my running buddies’ FB wall…Too bad though, most of them are either on a retreat or out of the country.  So, until five days before the race, I still am convincing friends to accompany me.  “Walang multo, promise!”.  Thanks to the adventurous Jinky, she accompanied me (and got her first taste of a race —- – Congrats Jinky for your first run – 3K of hills – wow!)

It was a picture-taking-mode race, couldn’t post all so I made a video to checkout my Movie Maker 2.6 ver.

I came! I saw! I conquered!…..and I shall return.

December 13 – Mighty Run

I wasn’t registered for this race.  But at the last minute on Saturday, I decided to just register on-site and join some friends from my prayer group Leo & Mike (doing their first 10K) & Michie (my running buddy since day one but is ALWAYS out of town or out of the country)….

I just got myself a new shoes (to say goodbye to my newtons).  The plan is an easy 10K and run another 10k to break-in my Adidas Supernova Glide.

with the Kenyans....they are still here, huh!..... I really don't need a pic with them as I always train with our own "Elites" ( & soon they will dominate the races, even with the Kenyans around)...

It was a good 10K run, though I had to stop for five times to tie my shoe laces.  Lesson learned again —-

I was planning on running another 10K but since the race started at 6am (not 5:30 as announced), I had to go home and head to Tagaytay for my sis’ prenups shoot. (which somewhat turned out to be ours as well)…..From race mode, I had to switch to “Stylist” mode on the way up.

Now, this pic shows another problem. Ang itim ko na! And the gown is plum & mettalic gray. I have two mos to get lighter, while training for Condura - How do I reconcile that?

A Week of Parties

After the Mighty Run, I have prepared myself to a different kind of Marathon, Party Marathon.  As much as I would want to attend all of them, I just prioritized those in the ortigas area for reasons it is near Ultra.  The good thing is I am able to squeeze attending the Speed Trainings at Ultra before my parties.  The bad thing is my friends thought “wet look” is my new ‘peg’.  For the week, I was able to juggle running, work and partiessss except for the Saturday party which is expected to end to sawa as it is our annual barkada get-together.

I came as Serena without Dan...thanks to John Rich, our official photographer.

Bestees from High School with J-the Diamond Star

Christmas Week

With so much carboloading, and with the Rizal day 32K run coming, I know I can’t afford to be a couch potato (on an after-party mode).  Thank God for Coach Titus!

Mc Kinley Return

On Saturday, just before the party, Coach & I went back to Mc Kinley hills ….It was a good run – hello hills!

Neighborhood Run

Monday was supposed to be my rest day but since I partied the weekend, I dragged myself to run.  I  joined coach and Capt. Chris along Valle 2, Green Meadows, Corinthian Hills till Edsa (which is our turnaround point).  I have never tried this route even if I live in the area.  It was a good run, kwento-pace until we reach Ultra.  I was happy and ready to relax, when Coach surprised us with the last 2K drill.  He does it everytime.  And I’m starting to love the drill and hate  coach (hahaha).  During this run, Capt asked Coach re a road he always see when flying.  And Coach said, That is C6, Takbuhin natin sa 24? .  I pretended not to hear to stay away from the plan…..

C-6 Exploration

But Christmas Eve comes, and there am I, running C6 with Coach, Capt. and Mesh.  We saw I2runner Natz on the way to Bicutan.

It was a good route.  You can feel the breeze of Laguna de Bay.  The road is not open yet so there were only a few motorists on the road.  We ran towards the Bicutan Exit then back to the Taguig exit (where we are parked).  That was about 8K.  Had water break then went towards the direction of Pasig.  …Another bonus was there is Taho on the road. (Thanks for the treat Mesh!)

Coach, Capt Abella & Mesh at the Pasig Bridge at Sunrise...

Me-Coach,Kami naman picture; Coach- Takbo na tayo. wala akong picture

We ran another 5K after the bridge which is mostly rough road.   Mesh and I were worried of the very white shoes of Capt (hehehe).  The last 1 K was a slum area.  We still ran till the end.  It was a good sight to see on a Christmas eve (makes me reflect and appreciate what I have).  I said a short prayer for the families as we were running.  A few minutes and we are back on the cemented road.  Oh no, Merry Christmas Coach!  There we go again, SPRINT for last 2k!

The Rizal Day Run

I definitely would not miss this race.  Aside from its perfect timing with my training schedule, it was organized by BR for the Elite Team Bald Runner.

This was my longest run…and definitely my best run for the year 2009.  A great yearender, and a start of the many first. (FM at Condura?).  I purposely didn’t register yet for Condura until I get to finish the Rizal Day Run (still alive and walking).  Thank God, I did in 3hours and 34 minutes!

after the second loop - Thanks to Brando Losaria for the picture!

See you at the starting line – Condura 2010!

One of the Boys at the Rolling Hills of Rizal

My non-running friends would always tell me I’m going crazy running a marathon….But since I have registered already and hmmm invested quite some time training for it, let’s do more crazy things at the last month before Condura.

TUESDAY had a 60-40 drill with Frank Indapan (of the Team BR).  I was asking for a bonus one round reduction but he didn’t give in.  He’s becoming our fave elite.  Congrats for the first and second and third place finish in Cebu to the Team BR!

FRIDAY I asked Coach for my drills for the day so I can start ahead.  200K-speed 200-rest. Target 45-50s. What? I’m trying to find excuses but didn’t come up with a good one.  Ended up doing it between 42-50s with Tere,Mark,etc…

SUNDAY I should be logging 35k run.  Randy invited me to join them in Bosoboso.  I am hesitant to join, since as of that time, I am the only confirmed female runner plus they are all soooo strong already.  With so many excuses, I find myself at Shell Marcos Hi-way at 430 am on Sunday.  And oh no, seven boys plus me.  (At least I got seven to carry me if I collapsed along the road).

By a little past 5am, we were driving to Bosoboso already.  We found a parking space near a farm, 1.5k from the main road along Antipolo-Tanay Road.

The first leg was 8k down, going towards the direction of Boso-Boso (turnaround at Wrigley’s plant) and 8 k back to our cars.    It was a hard first 4k for me as my body is not yet warmed up.  Randy and Jerry paced with me and was checking on me every minute, and even got me to practice using GU gel.

Back in our cars, we refilled our hydration belts, ate banana, cookies, fixed our hair (ako lang pala to, not the boys).

We ran another 15K.  7k going up towards Pinugay.  Lo ran with me during the second leg.  We lost view of them as we had to stop for CR break at a store on the road.  Thanks Manong!  Found them waiting for us at the turnaround point (about 3k from Foremost Farm).  It was sooo hot already at that time, good thing there are kind locals who shared their water drums with us.   There is Manong selling icecream on the road.  And free juice before the bridge (waiting for us c/o Jan).

Jerry told me before the start of our run – You need this for Condura…(the milleage plus running under the heat of the sun).  If you can finish this and you are still okay byMonday, then more or less, you are conditioned already.

Given that, I guess I am ready….three more crazy weeks to train…And pray hard!

The Boys

Running the last 5K which seems like forever...

Through thick or thin, we shall climb the hills-my running buddy Lo for the second leg of the run

A Year After c/o Caloy

It started with a simple facebook comment on Caloy’s FB status:an invite to join the October Botak Paa-Bilisan Road Race…”dude, new life?” (yep, running & night life can never be best friends)…after a few convincing from him, yada, yada…I joined my first 5-K Fun Run last October of 2008…..

Fast forward to 2009, I never really took running seriously, joining a few more 5Ks in the first quarter.  I had no real training, no goals; Iwas just running and enjoying it with friends.  Until Caloy, by mistake (or my mistake), registered me for a 10k-run in May. Time to get a little bit serious about it.

Now, a year and a month after my first 5-k run, I have already joined a couple of 10ks, an 8-mi, a 10-mi and  2-half marys.

And to celebrate my anniv in running, I joined the Botak 15K-race.  Too bad most of my running friends won’t be able to join.  So, I went there that morning by myself (…all by myself…don’t wanna be…okay, i’m late!).  I arrived a few minutes before the start.  Yay, my race bib is still with Caloy and he is ahmmm on the stage, hosting.

Just in time, I got my race bib, I checked in and off we go…..It was great to see Tere (el-capitana) at the 3rd-4th k.  We ran together, she wanna hit sub-60 while for me- I just wanna meet my milleage for the week.  At the back of my mind though, I wanna hit sub 1:30 to please my crazy coach( —- yup, same crazy coach Bards referred to in her blog).  I was just enjoying the run and was happy that I still feel strong throughout with no walk breaks, didn’t realize I am on my way back to the finish line and woahh 1:28:12.  Feels so great!!!

Okay, time for photo-ops…ooopss, wala pala akong friends na kasama.

Got my car keys from Caloy and headed home.

Two days after….Caloy sent a chat message —- You won Pxxx as 3rd place in your age category.  And he wasn’t joking….  Too bad I left early

Wow! How’s that to cap a year of running.  Thanks Caloy for getting me into this thing!

P.s. as of this post, I haven’t seen the official race results published but I have confirmed clearly that we were more than three.  (apat kami haha….madami daw naman & I trust Caloy, afterall my race reg was free).

See you at the New Balance this Sunday!

QCIM Plan A to B to C…then back to A

The QCIM is supposed to be my third half marathon. I got everything set for the NB 21K, aiming for a 2:15 PR and then Ondoy came…..

There were so many Ondoy and Pepeng stories to share (running and non-running stuff) yet I wasn’t able to blog (I wrote but didn’t get to post any)…..After the typhoon, my running training plan got all wiped out. (No, I wasn’t affected at all.) The rescue & relief operations activities coupled with deadlines for a community project plus regular work stuff demand ate up so much time including my regular sleeping time. Excuses! Excuses! Excuses!

And so, a week before the QCIM, like a student about to take her finals, I started to cram. (Jobaqs who is running his first full marathon joined me) Plan A- This will be a come back run for me, no PR, just a fun half mary with no injury to shake my lazy self and bring me back to my running world.

On Sunday morning at 430am, entering the starting line just felt so ecstatic, seeing & feeling the race mood again. Jobaqs, Kuya Raoul and John Q are already off to run their first marathon (too bad I missed their take off). I met with Mark at the starting line whose excitement for his first half mary is just so contagious. Said a short prayer for an injury free run for me & the other runners (esp for the 3 marathoners), then we’re off.

With Plan A in mind, i started slow…After Kilometer 1, it changed to Plan B- beating my 2:27 record for my first 21K-Plan B now!…then at Kilometer 3, I met and had a brief chat with Doray (who wouldn’t miss her red shirt?) who’s finishing at 2:15 & hmmmm I am pacing with the 2:15 pacers. Might as well do it! -Plan C it is!

Until kilometer 16, I was running behind the female 2:15 pacer and ahead of the 2nd pacer. Plan C was working just fine! But before reaching Philcoa, they overtook me already. At that time, my pace was already down to 7:32 and my feet felt like I was wearing a shoes two-size smaller. (What could possibly be wrong?). I still feel strong though, no cramps and legs were fine. I feel like removing my shoes (it really feels soooo hot, like I was walking on burning coal). I still tried to continue. At that point, I was already running with RunningDiva (pacer for 2:30). Fine, I will pace with them. So, I am now with Plan B. At some point, before reaching the turnaround point between SM North & Trinoma, the pacers were all ahead of me. I tried to catch up with them and maintained a 7:03 pace until….uh, oh OMG! we are still turning right at Trinoma. My feet already shouting, “I wanna get out of this shoes!” My mind all of sudden got in a state of shock (no, not really)….I walked for a few seconds. Fine, change of route, I’ll do it!

Exactly from that point onwards, my pace went down to 8:30, to 9:00 then 9:14….I knew I can still finish stronger than my first. But my mind tells me not to, my feet couldn’t breathe anymore, my body says that I’m still good. 2 vs 1. No, back to plan C! I ran, walk, ran, walk…and finished at 2:33 (2:34 official—har har har….I paused longer before I stepped on the mat at the finish line). —- I thought it was Fashion Week already and that was the red carpet.

My take home for this race:

• Sleep is so important (& why am I blogging at this time – blame it on the coffee I had for dinner, promise this is the last time) —– I had two weeks of no sleep since Ondoy
• Be consistent and stick to your training plans….whatever it takes…(no more excuse slips!)
• Stick to your plan during the race—– I had plan A, went to Plan B and got excited with Plan C….and ended again with Plan A. I should have just maintained a pace
• I probably need to research on why my feet felt that way 16th K onwards. Could it be the shoes? Argggghhh I checked on my Newtons and the lugs on the forefoot are almost flat. Weird huh! I’ll find out why.
• I might need to buy a new running shoes…..

It was a good, good race…and definitely an experience I’m glad I didn’t miss.

And I got a finishers medal!!!! Thanks be to God!

21K Finishers-Who wouldn't love joining the race with Bessie?

Classmate Jobaqs-Cramming 101!Congrats on your first Marathon!

Class Picture-the Finishers of QCIM 101 with Mr. Congeniality-Kuya Raoul

Running with the Kenyan Runners- why not?

Finally had the chance to meet Team Logan and had some chats.

Glad that I was injury free, still had the energy to go home to my hometown in Baras and distribute school supplies plus slippers to some 600 affected kids.

P.S. Other than a finishers medal, I got one souvenir to last a lifetime-Half of my left toenails finally said Goodbye! And I have to keep stock of dark polish from now on…

Running Empty and a Perfect Recharge

Thursday was reserved for a long run before Sunday’s NB 21K race.  Was glad that Jobaqs’ sched was free so I got company.

Started the day relaxed, drooling on my sisters’ good finds from her Guam trip.  Bags, Shoes, Watch…ohhh, so great a morning.  Just one meeting in the afternoon and I’m off to run.  After checking emails and several phone calls, all of a sudden, my destiny changed (yup, exag!).  I had to run to three meetings in 3 different places, ending in Makati without a car.  Thanks to my sis, I got to use her car for my Makati trip.  So from 12 noon, I went off running from one meeting to another, with my run at night in mind.  i said ‘no thanks, i’m good’  to all the food offered during my meetings (hoping it ends soon) but said yes to a sip of expensive wine.

Ending my last meeting at 5:30, I was expecting to arrive on time….and I was so so wrong! vehicular accidents, unexpected traffic, etc, me adjusting driving a sedan, etc, etc…whew! arrived at Ultra at past 8.  jobaqs is almost done…hayyy.  So I tried to join him in his cool down for 30minutes continuous running.

Great! I was maintaining a pace of 5:54-6:00 still.  At 2km, I realized, I got no water .  My last sip of water was about 4 hours ago and of liquid was a glass of wine at 5pm.  My last food intake was at lunch, Chinese food at the office.  My last relaxed mode was at 11am.

After 2km, I just had to stop. I know I can still push myself, but I know have to stop or else…………….

Got a perfect excuse, my friend Benette is already waiting for me at the resto to discuss some artworks for our project, then I packed!

Apparently, the night was planned for a surprise get-together pahabol dinner for me by my friends from our project.  Benette and Jobaqs were the perpetrators.  Congratulations guys! This is the first time I didn’t mess up plans for a surprise for me.  It was a good dinner, a bit of project brainstorming and good laughs…and the mere presence of bros and sis from the community was enough to put me back to relax mode.  Ended at 12 midnight.

It has been a busy birthday week for me, trying to juggle work demands, demands of a project and parties/dinner invitations for me, and my run schedule.  And it almost caused me to be totally empty of what I really needed, what I need to run better (for real and for reel):

• A good and healthy and on time food intake
• Proper mood for training – trying to squeeze it in, it has became a task to accomplish
• Proper hydration

Good thing that moments like last night happened, enough to remind me of these things.  As I ended the day yesterday, I realized I didn’t even get to change my shirt (next time pls warn me of any surprises so I can retouch and I don’t smell)….and moreso, I realized I need to reflect on the words I heard during the mass on my bday

flashback…Hope, Pray and Don’t Worry.

And this will be my theme for this Sunday’s New Balance Run.  Its my second 21K race after Globe’s Run for Home.  And I will….

Hope – for a better PR

Pray – that I finish injury free

Worry Not – just run!

And lastly, I have two days left to ensure that I wont run empty.