junmuego....the laid back runner

2010

2010-04-10T20:43:00.002+08:00

My apologies for not having updated my blog, but it doesn't mean that I have forgotten running either. I had a great series of run this year, starting with the BullRun, followed by the Condura Run, the Century Superbods (Runrio Trilogy Leg 1), and the Unilab Run.

That is actually quite a handful for the first quarter of 2010. One 10k and three 21k runs.

I will get back to blogging as soon as my scheduled permits me too. Hopefully before I turn 40 at the end of April or immediately after the Earth Run if will be able to run in it.

Ciao

Sharing the Joy of Running...The New Balance Power Race 2009

2009-11-30T18:28:00.013+08:00

When I received my first running medal at the Timex Run, I had the urge to share the elation with others....meaning I want others to feel what I felt when I got hold of my first running medal. The people who first went to my mind were my two nephews Bikoy and Paolo and my running partner She'. As such, even though it was already late, I registered for the New Balance Power Run since they will be giving away finisher's medals for the 5k, 10k, and 21k category. The registration was also a birthday gift to She' who celebrated her birthday lat November 15.

There were no great expectations for this run for the whole week before, I volunteered for the Fifth Asian Youth Day which was held at the Diocese of Imus in Cavite. It was a gathering of young people from all over Asia. And, as young people come together, there will be fun, fun, and more fun; but of course with spirituality in it. And so, I was not able to run for a whole week, but I did some walking, lots of walking when I was there.

I even thought of skipping this race because I was so tired when I got back home last Saturday. But santity proved to be much stronger, as a I woke my nephew very early on Sunday morning. Unfortunately, Bikoy won't be able to run because of an aching body. And so we went, met She' at the Fort who was also alone, took a few photos at the 21k starting shoot, deposited our bags at the baggage counter, and off we went.
The 21k runners first, then the 10k runners, and it was the 5k runners turn. We squeezed our bodies to get to the front of the starting line so as not to bump with so many runners at the starting point. (A lesson from previous 5k runs) But, we only managed to go as far as 5 meters awy from the front line, not bad. At the sound of the whistle (more like a honk of cruise ship ready to sail away), off we went, and after 100 meters on the first turn, I waved goodbye to She' and Paolo and sprinted my way through several runners, until may way was clear and I was able to run at my chosen pace.

The route was quite new for me, good thing, because I thought that this will be another routine run (sorry, but I did not check the race route at the start, silly me). The race was quite refreshing from start to finished except for three young women who cheated by cutting their run and took the u-turn earlier that anybody else (at the 2km point). It's a pity that there are runners who are cheating themselves, these people don't deserve the finisher's medal that most fought so hard for.

The last turn to the finish was a s usual, a great feeling. And, after the crossing the finishline, we were welcomed by ushers giving us the finisher's medal, a New Balance sports socks, a really big Hershey's chocolate bar, and a couple of bottles needed for re hydration.

After resting for a couple of minutes, I went to the baggage depository took my camera and waited for Paolo to cross the finishline.

nice form getting to the finish line

waiting in line to get the time logged and the finisher's medal

I was so happy to see Paolo receive his first running medal. It actually encourages runners to run more and excel in what they are doing. It surely is a very rewarding after running a distance and being able to finish it.

I would just like to thank the organizers for providing inspiration to runners on all distance categories by handing our finisher's medals. When I was about to meet my nephew, I saw before me an image of two little boys very happy with their freebies and medals after finishing their race. This is the future of running in the Philippines. It is basically races like the NB Power Race which encourages up and coming and very young runners to feel the joy and beauty of running.

the image of the future of running in the Philippines

Not to be missed at the New Balance Power Race 2009 are the photos at the finish line, the freebies area, and of course my favorite personality during races....Ms. Tessa prieto-Valdes who brings color and adds life to an otherwise very tiring event.

My time according to Timex Ironman on my wrist - 26:26:09

the ritual photo at the finish line

the sea princess in all her colorful glory

For A Medal's Sake - The 2009 Timex Run

2009-11-18T14:47:00.012+08:00

Why O Why

When I started running a little more than a year ago, I never thought that I would go far, nor even finishing my first 5k. Undoubtedly, when I finished my first 5k, the emotions were overwhelming. Then my goals got bigger, to run the 5k breaking the 25 minute barrier, that I haven't accomplished so far, but I have moved on from 5k to 10k. Imagine what I felt when I finished my first 10k at the PowerRun at the Mall of Asia early this year, it was twice the feeling I felt when I first finished my 5k.

After a few more runs, the Timex Run beckoned, and who am I to disregard the lure of a finisher's medal. I am just a mere mortal you know. And so, without any second thoughts, I registered (even if it was already late) for the Timex Run and planned on running my first half marathon. From that moment on, excitement and fear enveloped my whole being, for I have never ran a half before, much less finish it. The thought of a medal at the finish line and the dri-fit shirt in the loot bag gave a reassurance and brought my determination and confidence back. Seeing Piolo Pascual run is just an afterthought. (bwahahahahahahahahahahaha)

You see, I thought then that the only time I will be able to get a medal is when I win a race or at least win in my respective category. But I was denied those. And so, when this opportunity arrived, I decided that I will not deny myself a running medal. This one is in my hands.

The Race

Together with my nephews Bikoy (who will run his 5k) and Paolo (another 5k runner), we left our place really very early in the morning, not our usual time, since that the start of the 21k is much earlier than the others. Got a good parking slot and warmed-up a bit. Wished my nephews good luck on their run and entered the shoot of the 21k starters.

The first 5k was great for I was quite familiar with the route. After the u-turn, I was actually looking for She' who celebrated her birthday with her first 10k run at the Timex Run. But before I get to see her, what flashed before me was a sight to behold. There in front of the Department of Trade and Industry building was coach Rio and Piolo Pascual making their way through Buendia Avenue. What could I do but cheer them (though I fully know that they don't need any cheering though). Then Piolo smiled at me. That was it, it was as if it was just the start of the 21k, I was full of energy, excitement, and strength as I approached the Kalayaan-Buendia flyover on my way back to The Fort.

at the Kalayaan-Buendia flyover

At the 7k mark, I saw She' and greeted her a happy birthday on the flyover. Who else will ever have that distinction of being greeted on your birthday while running on that part of EDSA. hehehehehehehe

indeed a very happy lady on her birthday

As I maneuvered my way towards McKinley, I saw my nephews Bikoy and Paolo on their way back to finish their 5k run. They were quite enjoying the run as they were together, running a relaxed run with smiles on their faces.

Uncharted Territory

Then came the left turn to Bayani Road. This is actually an unfamiliar place for me, for this is the first time I'll be running in this part of The Fort. It turned out to be great place to run, full of trees and people cheering the runners. Then came the entrance to Heritage Park, the bikers, strollers, and badminton players who often the place stopped for a while to cheer us all. Indeed for a tired runner, that is all it takes to get his feet off the ground and raise his spirits as well. As it turned out, the run in the Heritage Park was indeed a run in the park, with very wide open space and flat roads, it gave us breathing space and were able to concentrate on our run. Though the beautiful view was an added bonus and is a good respite from the busy road outside.

When I exited the Heritage Park, I again saw two familiar faces, those were of Bro. J and his Swthrt, and after some pleasantries, went back on my feet to the finish what I have started. I learned later that they were pacing with a friend running his first half, that is after they paced with another in the 5k. Such good people. May you multiply a thousandfold.

At Last

As I approach the start/finish area, emotions started flooding in. Flashes of my first run, and all the other firsts in my short but memorable running history came flashing by. And the thought of the medal and Piolo suddenly were not part of my being. It was just me, running to reach my goal of finishing my first half marathon, which is just a few meters away. I was overwhelmed by emotions that I actually started to cry upon crossing the finishline, for I never thought that after I started running a little more than a year ago, I will be able to run my first half marathon. This is the point where I wished my cousin, Ate Nora, the Golden Girl, was there with me. For she was the one who encouraged me to go into running. Ate Nors, thank you so much!!! And you are also the reason why I continue to share the passion and love for running to others. (She is actually running at that moment at the Animo Race at the MOA, that is after months of respite from running due to wrist injury. Good to know that you're back.)

Not To Be Missed

This run is so well organized, with water stations every two kilometers, marshals in every corner and along the road cheering the runners, and of course, the kilometer marker in every kilometer which guided me with my pace, plus of course the Champion Chip which gives fast and accurate results, not to be outdone also were the people from photovendo, who were all over the place, which also forces runners to smile even when treading a very difficult road, you make us remember the joy and fun of running, thanks for the wonderful photos. This is indeed the race to beat in the coming years.

with nephews Bikoy and Paolo (and the medal too, hehehehe)

finishers all Bikoy (5k), Paolo (5k), She' (10k), and the laidback runner (21k)

The 2009 Philippine International Marathon - Tales from the Run for the Pasig River

2009-11-11T15:03:00.016+08:00

November 8, 2009 - the starting point of the Philippine International Marathon is the kilometer zero at the Rizal Park- the point where the distance from wherever in the country is measured against(ever wondered why those yellow markers on the road have kilometer numbers written on? we'll here is where it all started, the kilometer zero).

I had very high hopes for this run, for one, it was organized by abs-cbn and another is that the race director is Rudy Biscocho. I was right on that note, it was indeed a very organized run; two, that since it is a flat surface, probably I will be able to run smoothly and have a relaxed run in preparation for my half marathon on the 15th. Run smoothly i did, relaxed - check, but only until the 7.5 km mark. It was at this point (at 2.5km from the finishline) that it was pure impossible to run smoothly and relaxed, for this is the point where the 10k runners converged with the 5k pack. Since that the run was very well publicized and very well attended, there were hundreds or thousands who joined from the different schools in Metro Manila who were not actually running, they were just walking, walking along the park is a better description for it. Add to that that they occupied the whole width of the road. What we did was to crisscross between these runners/walkers (hehehehe) to pass them, and it required an intense maneuvering of sorts.

Finally on the corner of TM Kalaw, the 5k and 10k runners were again separated and that cleared our way to the finishline. It really was a welcome respite from the chaos of the last 1.5km, as the we approach the finish line in front of the Quirino Grandstand.

On the way to the finish line...............

But, all was not well, I thought chaos already left the event, but after finishing the race, I was looking for water stations but was denied because the supply was intended only for the 42k runners. Afterwhich, a welcome treat awaited the runners because there was a truck with a water tank spraying water to runners, I just stood there and had my whole body be quenched by the pouring of the water. It was indeed a very refreshing moment, especially when you are with a Kenyan who already finished his 42k run.

A cool shower after finishing the 10k...............

with the Kenyan runner

Another character who will not be missed at the finishline is the ever colorful Tessa Prieto-Valdez. Until now, I really get to wonder how she can run with all those bling attached to her body. But, she sure is a welcome sight in a place where everybody is tired and just want to get some respite.

When I reached our vehicle parked in front of Bluebay restaurant, I was surprised to see both my nephews, Bikoy and Paolo with She' taking a rest. Meaning they crossed the finishline better than their times in the adidas King of the Road two weeks back. That was indeed a proud moment for a very proud uncle and friend.

On the whole, the 2009 Philippine International Marathon - A Run for the Pasig River was a very important run - (1) my two nephew, Bikoy and Paolo improved on their respective PBs in the 5k category, (2) it was a great run for She' who is preparing for her first 10k at the Timex Run at the Fort on the 15th of November as her birthday gift to herself, (3) I had a great workout run as preparation for my first 21k run at the Timex Run also on the 15th, and (4) It was a run for a very good cause.

Before I forget, before the start of the 10k, in which the former President Fidel Ramos fired the starting gun, there was an orientation, and it was only then when I realized that the word Tagalog was derived from TAGA-ILOG. More and more giving importance to rehabilitating the Pasig River and other waterways that we have, not just as a way of protecting the environment but more importantly as a means of preserving our culture.

Next:
Timex Run.... My First 21k

Lest I Forget.....The Urbanite Run

2009-10-30T15:06:00.008+08:00

This run is an eventful run, not just for me but all of the runners who joined in the fun. Though I was not able to get a good look at Marc and Rovilson, it was nonetheless a great run for me and my companions. It was eventful for me because it will be the first time that I will run officially at night (eh malayo pa naman ang Holloween), and that I will be running with a new friend from Vienna- Richard (Ricci).

with She' and Ricci

with She's brothers Adrian and Edward

It wasn't that tiring because it was less humid, but the fact that I haven't ran for quite sometime, made me quite exhausted, especially with the pace that Ricci and I were having. I think it is worthy to note that it was Ricci's first 5k run, but he sure can run thanks to his football (soccer) experience. We were trying to go under 25 min in the 5k. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to keep up with the pace, especially with the Mc Kinley Hill route, there was no way I will be able to go under 25. But Ricci did.

It was also an exciting run because it was the first time that I ran with the timing chip on my shoes, it was a great experience knowing that I won't have to squeeze my body to the front lines in order to get a decent start.

The results were more exciting when I found it, it was really comprehensive and quite helpful too in setting your targets.

Here is my race summary:

Even breathtaking were the race photos courtesy of photovendo.ph

Overall, the Kenny's Urbanite Run experience was worth the experience.

finishers all with Edward, She', Adrian, and Ricci

One Year Since

2009-10-27T18:49:00.011+08:00

My first official run was the adidas King of the Road 2008. As written on my first entry in this blog, I was inspired by my cousin, the Golden Girl, to join her in her new hobby or sport, or whatever you might call it. After that first run, I knew that I finally found something that will keep me busy for quite a while. Indeed, one year since my first run, I am still yearning for more and planning on reaching new heights too.

Last Sunday's adidas King of the Road 2009 was really very important for me for various reasons. One, it was my first anniversary run; two, my two nephews, Bikoy and Paolo Madrid will join me in this run; and three, i will run the 10K. Though my nephew Paolo, ran with me several times since last year, this is the first official run of my other nephew, Bikoy. And though I already ran the 10K in previous races, I saw it proper to run the same just to give honor to my first official run. Here lies the loyalist spirit in me. Hahahahahaha.

The route was quite familiar for it was the same route as the Condura Run earlier this year. I was really quite elated with the run, especially the moment when I found myself and a whole lot of people in yellow singlets on the Kalayaan-Buendia flyover. The run was actually very comfortable, with water stations (with ample water/gatorade supply and slices of banana) every 2 kilometers and with race marshals guiding every runner's way.

On my way back to the Fort approaching the Kalayaan-Buendia flyover, I had a glimpse of an overflowing yellow road in front and behind me. And I thought that running is actually gaining popularity here and there are actually more and more people going into running.

A few meters approaching the finish line I was accidentally tripped by a female runner who apologized at once. Fortunately, my knees held up to the incident and I didn't fell. Crossed the finished line with a beaming smile knowing that I have accomplished something on that particular day.

Missed during the King of the Road 2009 was my cousin, Ate Nora - the Golden Girl, who is still nursing an injury from a tennis practice fall months back; also missed were my other running buddies, She', and her brothers Edward and Adrian.

Next:
The Philippine International Marathon
08 November 2009

at the finish line with the KOTR 2009 finisher's certificate

brothers Bikoy (left) and Paolo (right)
it was Bikoy's first official run. Congratulations!!!!!!!!

a frustrated Gatorade endorser. Hahahahahahahaha

Paolo and Bikoy after the race

pointing at the start/finish line of the 10K

embracing the feat of finishing the 10K in one piece

the crowd at the finish line

more people at the finish line

and the crowd doesn't want to go anywhere

The Love For Running Inspite and Despite Of.....

2009-03-31T19:51:00.011+08:00

My apologies for having been absent in the blogosphere for quite some time. Okay, okay, for a long time. It was due to busy schedules at work at the end of 2008 and the first quarter of 2009. But that doesn't mean that I have totally forgotten about the greatest love I have right now......running.

As a recap, I ended 2008 with runs at the YAKULT 10 Miler and the UP Centennial Run. Wasn't able to join the PSE Bull Run (which was supposedly my first 10K run as promised) due to conflict in work schedules. But I was able to run in the Happy Run at the Fort, afterwhich Paolo, my nephew and I went straight to UP Diliman for the Walk Your Talk, organized by the sorority of Paolo's mom, Bembet; and finished my first 10K running in the Power Run at the Mall of Asia. Much has been said about the Power Run, and I too share their points of view. No need to elaborate here, I know you are all tired of those stories. But, the Power RUn was really very significant for me for it was my first 10K run, and finished it under 60 minutes (although I believe that I ran longer than 10).

Here are some of the photos from those runs..........

Then the Takbo para sa Kalikasan at the Quirino Grandstand followed. This was kind of special also for it was the first 10K of my nephew Paolo. Although he was just forced into it because it is a requirement for his P.E. class at UPLB. He even brought with him his friend from Los Banos to the run. To say we had a great time is an understatement, seeing my nephew finish his first 10K is a very proud moment for me, and of course his mom too. For it was only last December that I convinced him to join me in the runs. He started running the 5K and after 4 official runs, began conquering the 10K. At that moment, I merely became a spectator to the triumph of my nephew.

And now, back to our regular programming...........

Next stop, the Condura Run at the Fort. This was much publicized due to the fact that this is the first time that runners will have the opportunity of steppin/running on the Skyway without dishing out toll fees. But this previlege is only reserved for the 21K runners. To say that I never thought about running the 21K at the Condura run is a complete LIE. In fact, while I was at the Nike Park at Trinoma to register for the run, I was seriously contemplating on taking the Skyway this time, but sanity proved to be stronger. I ended up registering for the 10K run. We'll, running the Kalayaan flyover on to Buendia is not bad after all. A first for me, and I always welcome firsts.

Like the Power Run, much has been said about the Codura Run. And I totally agree 100% to all of them that it was the most organized running event I have participated. There were water stations every 2km, marshalls were everywhere and were very helpful, the roads were marked and police escorts were everywhere too. It was a glorious sight to behold, seeing the Kalayaan flyover and Buendia taken over by runners relishing the experience. I actually had goosebumps as I approached the Kalayaan flyover, for who would've thought that I, together with thousands of runners will be able to run on it's pavement. And now, when I go back to Donsol and see the whale sharks, I will be able to tell them that I ran 10K for them so they better let me touch them. Oh, lest I forget, it was also a run for a special cause, that is to make children with lip deformities realize the gift of smile and share it with others.

takbo.ph support groups

Special thanks to the takbo.ph support groups who were waiting for the runners and giving them water, sports drinks, bananas, and even chocolate bars. Great job you guys.

A sad note however, I do miss my cousin, the golden girl who hasn't been running for quite some time now. Ate Nors, I do hope that it won't be long till I'll be running with you again. Can't wait for that day. Always missing you during races.

I do hope that I'll be able to write more of my running experiences. And if won't have time to write that often, rest assured that I will always have time for running.

And now, the condura run photos.......

The Unforgiving Hills of McKinley...The Unicef Run

2008-12-04T01:46:00.000+08:00

There are obstacles where one might think easy to overcome, but more often than not, one is always proven wrong. Such is my experience on the Unicef Run last November 23. I thought given that most of the runners are at the Mall of Asia running the Animo Run of La Salle, I will be able to break my PB or at the most get a hold of a much anticipated podium finish on my age category. To my surprise, it was not the case. My mistake.

Before the start of the race, the organizers changed the route a little bit. No worries I thought. But, to my surprise, it was one hell of a “little change”. For while in the first kilometer mark, there came before me a steep downhill at McKinley Hill, and after the first u-turn of course a steep uphill. After surviving that ordeal and reaching the entrance going to Lawton, I felt real tired and it seems that my mind wanted to convince my body to give in. After some internal conflicting moments, I managed to reach another u-turn and then I decided to triumph over my mind’s desire.

I finished the race not breaking my PB, but I was more than glad to have finished the race in one piece. Apparently, there will be a respite from running at McKinley Hills for a while. I will now try to run on even surface. Less draining on the body, and probably I will be able to break my PB.

One good thing about this race though is that I was able to convince my officemate, She’ (who was my photographer on the Adidas KOTR) to finally run this race. An added bonus is that she was able to convince her two other brothers to run also. In spite of the results of this race, I was still overwhelmed.

With She' and her brothers Edward and Paul

Another bonus is that of meeting a friend back in UP, Jun Catacutan. He's grown so big since the last time I saw him, probably about 15 years ago. When I saw this photo, I felt so small as I was dwarfed by his built.

Now, I need to prepare for the next two runs before the year ends. The Yakult Run and the ICTUS Run at UP. The Yakult Run at the CCP will be a new exprience for me, for I haven't ran yet on the area, and though I run regularly at UP, this will be a first competion run at the UP.

I just hope that I will be able to achieve my goal before the year ends. That of breaking the 25 minute mark for the 5K. After that, I will try to run the 10K in January's PSE Run (which I promised my cousin, Ate Nora).

On the Yakult Run, aside from She' and her two brothers, I will also be joined by another officemate, Noel, plus my two nephews, Bikoy and Paolo. We'll Ate Nors, the tribe is growing.

By thw way, my official time for the Unicef Run (thanks to www.runrio.com) is 26:51, 27th overall in the male category and 7th in my age category.

The Bangkok Standard Chartered Marathon

2008-11-28T18:30:00.000+08:00

Yes, I went to Bangkok, Thailand on the 14th of November, but I did not run the Bangkok Marathon on November 23. That I want to make it clear.

This is my story.

Before I got hooked on running, I have another passion, it is the quest for adventure and the unknown. On July of 2006, I embarked on a journey to travel every province of the Philippines, document my travel and take a photo of the 79 provincial capitols (now, there are already 81 of them) and whatever sight my eyes can lay upon. It was surely an experience of a lifetime. My goal, to be the first ordinary person to travel the whole of the Philippines and have proof of it. You can read all about it in my travel blog http://www.thelaidbacktraveller.blogspot.com/.

Where does that lead me?

Last August, before my first run (the KOTR), I booked a flight to Bangkok, Thailand, just an early Christmas present from me to me. To experience a culture and a landscape that is not familiar. While walking around Bangkok with my backpack, I chanced upon a poster of a couple running. It was a poster of the Bangkok Standard Chartered Marathon. Too bad, it was slated on the 23rd of November and by that time, I'm already back in Manila running at the UNICEF's Run at McKinley Hill. So I thought that I will not leave Bangkok unless I had my photo taken with the small billboard as my background. Just so to put my sights on running there next year.

Unfortunately, it was not a very busy place, there were no people walking around, and so I waited, and waited, and waited. Patience does pay off. Finally, after I don't know how long, a man came and waited for a bus. Using my charm and my fingers, I asked him to take my photo and he obliged. And I asked him without saying a word (sign language lang). And so here it is......

The regrettable thing is that I wasn't able to ask the name of the man who took this photo. So, to you heaven sent, whoever you are, Khob khun Krab (thank you in Thai).

Now I have one thing to look forward to next year, it will surely be one my running goals in 2009 to run in the Bangkok Marathon. So, I need to look at its schedule first defore booking a flight there, and hopefully, the political crisis by then is already over.

Long Overdue...tales from the OctoberRun

2008-11-13T19:43:00.000+08:00

This article is long overdue. Blame on the demanding schedules (work, birthdays of friends, and visit to the Memorial Park), including the recently concluded VSO Run, and most likely, writer’s block. Ok, Iam guilty as charged. Last Sunday was the second week since the Octoberun at the Fort and it is now November, thus Iam compelled to write something about the experiences on that eventful day, since that I’ve already written an article on the VSO Bahaginan’s Run. I will be doing injustice to the OctoberRun if I pass this one out.

Looking back, I realized that the Octoberun was my third race in October, not bad, since I just started joining these runs starting with the Adidas KOTR. There were no big expectations to start with, just finish the race and if ever that I will better my PB, good, if not, we’ll there are other races. It was a very relaxed mood. And I came much prepared compared to the previous runs. Though the training were very much the same (running three rounds of the UP oval every other night), when I said prepared, I meant preparedness with the other necessities, like to bring my nephews (Bikoy and Paolo) together with their mother (Bembet) with me so that I will have a photographer (which I missed in the BOTAK run) and let them experience the very lively atmosphere on the race day, and hope that they will be inspired by it and go into running also. Too bad though that my running-mate cousin (Ate Nora) and my auntie (Ate Ella) were not able to make it to the run because my niece (Eia) had a chicken pox the night before, and they need to take care of her (family first).

Start of the Run

I positioned myself on the sidelines to watch the start of the 10K run, though I don’t know anybody there, I felt the urge of cheering them on, at the same time, clicking my camera just for the sheer pleasure of it. After the sound of the gun, off they went, and I then squeezed myself to the front part of the pack of 5K runners, it was easy because of my thin frame.

A funny thing happened before the start of the 5K. The announcer said that it is just 1 minute more before the start of the 5k, then suddenly, we heard the starting gun, devoid of any other thoughts, we started running. The situation helped us a lot to relax, for we were all smiling when we started the race.

Going through McKinley Hill, it was really tough, good thing there were water stations positioned strategically. Though I’m having a hard time drinking from the cup while running, I was forced to walk a little bit to drink some needed liquid. Then I promised myself to get a hydration belt in the next race so as not to inconvenience me.

The run was great, I knew that I was in the front pack, for in front of me were just a handful of people, and when I glance at the back, there was a road full of runners, and after the u-turn, I saw even more runners on their way. This inspired me to go ahead, knowing that Iam running a faster pace.

Upon reaching the final 1.5 kilometer mark, I knew that the light at the end of the tunnel is getting nearer, so I psyched myself and went on the final curve to the finish line.

There I was met by my two nephews and my sister. It was a great feeling to sprint to the finish line, as I was with a faster runner, a faster lady runner.

I finished the race knowing that I did well, and it felt good. So good that I even stayed for a while to look around for familiar faces and cheer on the other finishers, especially the one with a baby stroller. It was truly a great day.

About to Leave

When we were about to leave to have our breakfast, I heard the announcer called on my name to go to the registration booth to verify my age. This means only one thing I thought, that I was one of the faster runners in my age group. For lack of a better word, that feeling was true. Until now, I couldn’t describe what I felt then, it was a mixture of happiness, excitement, I became very emotional, thankful, and even panic (please don’t ask me for I don’t know why).

As it turned out, I was the 4th fastest in my age group and my official time became my Personal Best. My official time was 25:56 and I was 44th overall (thanks to www.takbo.ph for the official results). This day, the number 4 was really very significant for me, adding to my age-group placement and my overall ranking, my bib number was 1441. Here’s hoping that one day, I’ll be able to get a bib numbered one.

No Great Expectations...VSO Bahaginan Run

2008-11-10T16:07:00.001+08:00

Doing something for the sheer enjoyment of it is really very rewarding. Aside from enjoying what you are doing (at your own time and accord of course), you also get to open yourself to many possibilities that might just come your way.

Such is the experience last Sunday on the VSO Bahaginan Run.

Went to the Fort with my nephews (Bikoy and Paolo) and my sister (Bembet), who have been with me for the past two runs, starting with the OctobeRun Festival last October 26 (which, incidentally, until now, I haven’t finished my post). Was supposed to meet my cousin Ate Nora before the race, but with so many people and arriving at the venue minutes before the start of the 15K run, it was hopeless.

And so, I warmed up a bit and readied myself for the 5K run. The 15K run was first, then came the 10K runners, and finally, our turn. I squeezed myself about 2 meters from the front line (a lesson I learned from the past races), heard the gun and off we went.

The route was really challenging, with several uphill roads, I got really very tired upon reaching the U-turn slot at the 2.5K mark. By now, Iam really very wet from perspiration, good thing I just got a Hydration Belt the night before (for Iam having a really tough time drinking from a cup while running). About 500 or so meters after the U-turn, I saw my Ate Nora, and cheered her up, though I know that she doesn’t really need some cheering up, for I know that she can really make it.

I continued to run at a very relaxed pace, and even managed to smile at the person taking photos in the middle of the road. Then, after seeing the main pack of runners, I realized that I may be on the top 50, then I relaxed a bit, because by this time, my feet are really feeling tired from the uphill climb. Good thing there were downhill parts as well, and with a little help from a very dear friend named gravity, I just sped through the downhill part, such a great friend I have.

Upon reaching the final turn, and seeing the finish line, my spirits were once again elated, and I continued to move with ease, until the finish line.

Looking back at the race, I noticed that there were enough water stations strategically located through the course of the run, a very good thing for the runners. And at the starting point, the time interval between the 15K, 10K, and the 5K runs were just as well coordinated. Congratulations to the organizers.

After the Run

Immediately after the run, I rehydrated myself with the free rush bottle and water from my hydration belt. Did the cool down while looking for my nephews and sister. I then waited for Ate Nora at the finish line and continued to sheer her on.

It really pays to stay after the run, for aside from people watching (the energy is just amazing), the usual photo op (which I think is a must), hoping for a miracle that your bib number might be called (though that is really far fetched), buying sports shirts and shorts at a bargain price, and you just might get a pleasant surprise or two along the way.

In my case, the pleasant surprise came by the name of Chris Aquino (no, not the lady that you get to see on TV), Christian Aquino, a friend back in UP. He walked pass me and heard my name, when I turned, we’ll surprise-surprise, it was him. We chatted for a while, took a photo with the camera of Ate Nora, and off we went.

with Chris Aquino, a friend from UP
(he told me Jun Catacutan was there also but was not able to see him, probably on the next run)

Now, I have new recruits for the cause of running, my two nephews, who pledged that they will be running also, and my sister, who in time, might be able to finish her first 5K run.

the future running family of Bembet, Bikoy and Paolo

Here’s hoping for more great experiences ahead.

This just came in, my official time for this particular race is 27:05, yes, slower than my OctoberRun time which was my PB, but at least, I reached two goals in this VSO Bahaginan Run: (1) I finished the race without walking, and (2) My name is on the first page of the 5K male official results (47th over-all).

Many thanks to Bro. J for sending Ate Nora these photos towards the finish. Really grateful.

Ciao

i guess i was really focused on the finish line . Thanks Bro. J for the photos.

(need to hold my belt because it's a size bigger, need to gain more weight i guess)

a few meters more...................wew!!!!!

my great cousin, about to cross the finish line, ahead of the Navy Team, great!!!

(photo courtesy of Bro. J)

after getting the certificate, a must-have photo

with my sister, Bembet and nephew, Paolo

Charge it to Experience...Lessons Learned

2008-10-20T16:52:00.000+08:00

When we plan on doing something, especially an event that is very important to us, we usually have some kind of plan to meet our expectations and goals. There are times that the plans that we conjured up in our head works. Oftentimes, it just turns the unexpected route and we need to cope with it. Make a little adjustment here and there and go on with the rest of the event.

That was exactly what happened last Sunday (October 19) at the Botak Paa-bilisan Race Series. Prior to the race, I actually planned on squeezing myself to the frontline of the starting area, just so I will be able to start as the official timer starts. But fate would intervene and I was at a lost as to whether the runners of the 10K and 5K will start together or will the 10K runners start first. After more than a couple of inquiries, instead of getting a clear answer, I was even more confused because of the differing answers I got. With the race about to start, I then went to the checking area to get in the railings for the starting area, but I was stopped by the marshals because according to them, the 10K runners will run first, and so together with some of the 5K runners, we waited outside the starting area as we heard the starting gun for the race. Consequently, we tried to enter the starting area to get ready for the 5K start, but what we were hearing from the announcer alarmed us, they were calling on the 3K runners to go to the starting area and was asking the 3K runners not to go along with the 5 and 10K runners. Apparently, we missed the start of the 5 and 10K run. And so we were quite on a panicky mode when we squeezed ourselves between the bodies of the 3K runners who are getting ready to start their race.

Finally, we were already on our way, but the tail end of the pack was already about 200 meters away from us, so we needed to run really fast to catch up with them. I was actually out of focus until the first kilometer mark. However, I psyched myself and went back to the main reason why I was running in the first place. And so it went, I ran the remaining 4 kilometers, enjoying every minute of it while glancing at the stopwatch to take note of my pace and time.

Seeing the finish line from a distance pumped much needed adrenaline to my system. I was able to run according to my pace and my goal while enjoying every minute of it. Finally I crossed the finish line and upon checking on my stopwatch, my unofficial time was 27:35. Almost 2 minutes off my previous PB.

Lesson number one…You have to constantly remind yourself on the main reason why you started running. For it will surely help to gain your focus if there are unexpected incidents along the way. It will also prevent you from burn out and from being discouraged;

Lesson number two…You have to put “space for the holy spirit” in your plan. You cannot really follow your plan up the very last detail, no matter how you are well prepared for it. There are factors beyond our control, and we should not be controlled by it, a proactive way of viewing things;

Lesson number three…Be mindful of the people around you, they have such great stories to tell;

Lesson number four…At the end of the day, you just charge it to experience and hope that you will get out of the situation with enough lessons learned.

Unfamiliar Territory

2008-10-15T16:00:00.000+08:00

There comes a time in one's life that you just decide to do something out of the ordinary. Most of us may have some reservations in doing things that we are not used to or are unfamiliar with. Understandable, since that you will be doing things that you don’t usually do (unfamiliar nga di ba?). You will be going out of your comfort zone, and that brings in insecurities to us.

I do not know how many are like me, (though I hope that there are legions out there who share my point of view) but I for one loves to try new things. New things that may or may not bring me fulfillment; new things that may or may not be a source of renewed strength; new things that may or may not encourage me to go on. But I know for fact that these new experiences will make me a better person.

Last Saturday is no exception for these “trying new things” thing. I ran the Adidas King of the Road 5K marathon at the Fort, together with my cousin, Nora del Rosario (who by the way won in her age category. You may read more about it on her blog at http://www.norberta.blogspot.com/). She was very instrumental on my joining the KOTR. Instrumental in every sense of the word, she convinced me to run; she calls me every now and then to remind me to register at any Adidas outlet; she gives me advice on the ins and out of running, for she has been doing it for quite sometime now; she’s texting me on the new developments. I have to admit it, that without her doing all those things, I could have been well in the middle of a dream in the early morning last Saturday (October 11,2008).

Insecurities Before the Race

Days before the KOTR, my whole being was enveloped by insecurities. Here’s why: (1) First, I don’t know if I will be able to finish the 5K marathon, probably I will end up lying in the middle of the road at the Fort waiting for a medical team or an ambulance to bring me to the nearest hospital; (2) Second, though I’ve been running around the UP Sunken Garden (with my officemate She’ Andes) for quite some time now and already timed myself, I didn’t know the exact distance of the whole oval; (3) Third, I don’t know if I will be able to wake up really very early in the morning of the race day, which brought morbid thoughts in my mind.

Probably you will understand me for feeling that way, I guess everyone experiences the same insecurities before doing things for the first time, but on differing levels.

Day of the Race
Pre-Race

Thank God, I was able to wake up really very early came Saturday morning without the help of my mom (come to think of it, that is also a first). Packed my bag and ate a couple of bananas. Left the house alone, because my nephews and sister are still sleeping very tight and they could not drive me to the Fort. Took a taxi and arrived at the Fort at 5:15 AM.

Seeing those runners in their Adidas singlet made me really nervous. It was a good thing that I don’t know any of them, I will be just a statistics in this race, one of the thousands of faces who registered for the KOTR.

Good thing also that I brought a camera with me, so I took some photos before the start of the race, just to have a feel of it, and to loosen out some stiff and still sleeping muscles. Here are some of the pre-race photos:

While doing all of these, I was talking on the phone to my cousin, Ate Nora on where we will meet up. Finally, we saw each other and with our Auntie, Ate Ella at the assembly area for the 5K. With all the runners and on-lookers around, we managed to sneak in a photo op at the 5K entrance (you can see the photo at Ate Nora’s blog).

And so we went in the railings where the starting area is supposed to be, waited several minutes and finally, we heard the starting gun and off we went.

During the Race

It was quite a different feeling while in the race, I was not preoccupied by any thoughts or consciousness, I just enjoyed the run together with my cousin. At one point, I saw her talking with a runner whom she met before the start of the race and overheard them that they just want to finish the race injury-free. That was my cue, for after that, I continued on with my pace and chose one runner to tail who was quite fast in his pace.

Most of the time, I was lost in my thoughts for I did not know how far I’ve already ran. The only marker I knew was when we were given the pink ribbon. And so I thought that I was on the half way mark already. But still, I didn’t know how I was doing, for I didn’t have with me a stop watch. Still I ran and ran and ran. Upon reaching Market Market!, I realized that I was nearing the finish line already, so I increased my speed and was able to overtake several runners on the way to the finish line. I finished the 5K with an official time of 29:27, 40th on my age category, and 210 overall (thanks to the results from takbo.ph). Not bad for a first time runner huh.

Catching my Breath

It was after the race when I saw my officemate, She’ (she was supposed to be with me at the start of the race to take some photos). Went to her, introduced her to Ate Ella, and she took this photo of me at the finish line. It felt like I was relieved for finishing the race in one piece yet still yearning for more.

And so we waited a few more minutes and Ate Nora came. She finished the race with an official time of 31:45 (she won in her age category). A sight of two cousins completing a race is a happy sight indeed. Thanks to She’ who captured this moment.

After the Race

Because of tiredness and the eagerness to share the story with family and friends, I left the Fort, taking with me a memory that will last a lifetime, and an experience that will forever be mounted in the colorful walls of my life.

I knew right there and then that a new chapter of my life has been opened, the running chapter. And so, last Monday, I went to the Botak store at Kamuning to register for the Paa-bilisan on October 19.

Join me as the running chapter of my life unfolds.

To Ate Nora, thank you for introducing me to the wonderful world of running, and congratulations knowing that all the hard work you’ve done paid off. Thank you also for inspiring me to share my stories through this blog. We’ll come to think of it, this is my first blog.