To the Abode of the Gods… The Great Olympus! (Condura Run 2010 – 1st Half)

‘Twas another memorable quest when the argonaut once again dared to enter the abode of the gods… the Olympus!

The Argonauts with the Nymphs of Takbo.ph

Another sleepless night… Good thing I slept more the day before the big day so I feel that I am more conditioned from my last run where in I challenged the not so worthy Morpheus.

Oh we don't want the sun king "Helios" burn us to death...

I arrived at the Great Hall of Bonifacio High Street minutes passed 3AM with the nymph Tracy.  Busloads of people were already there, all excited at the gun start for the 42Km, 21K, 10K and 5K.  Meeting with the other Argonauts, we bid each other good luck.  I believe that one is important… Those words of encouragement coming from your comrades.

Welcome Condura Marathon!

Blazing Fireworks in the sky were seen before the start to surprise the runners who wants to dare and we were all running after that.  Most people are trying to strategize by running at their own comfortable pace at first.  I was with my comrade Gab along the way for we have discussed that we’re going to pull each other’s leg during the race until one of us quits.  Mark Hernandez, Jixee were running with us for a couple of Km until Gab and I forwarded in our comfortable pace. 

Running along side with Gab

Reaching Kalayaan, we saw the formidable team Dragon Bong Z.  I told Gab that we should sneak out so that we wouldn’t be eaten easily by them.  We galloped when the light of Apollo was not present; both of us were laughing at the competition for the trio are indeed motivating us not to stop.

Olympus… The mouth of Olympus was already right before our eyes.  Both of us are having Goosebumps the moment we cross its threshold making us even more excited.  It was darkness as we ascend.  Good thing the God of Light somewhat shed some light through her sister’s emblem … the moonlight.  We are still running at our comfortable pace when the sun-king Helios was up.  At the Olympus, you can see nothing but the blue clear sky, both of us amazed at our feat. We saw Wilnar and Chris speeding, Bryan, Carly, Tina, Glen, Totoy, Dennis, Luis and Sam.  When it’s our time to turn, Gab mentioned that it will be the time how far are we from the DBZ.  Until we realize that they are just lurking behind us.  They weren’t doing so bad after all so we need to be on our guards. 

Don't be deceived... They are damn ferocious!

Km 25. A sign of the Nymph Vicky was present and so with the Running Ninja Sam before we reach the highest point of Olympus.   I stopped and walk the moment I reach that point and uttered that there’s no way I’m going to run this part for it will truly drained me a lot. 

Around Km 27, I stopped, for Zeus lightning had stricken me.  I was immobile for a few seconds and agony is all I can feel.  Gab who was a few meters ahead of me had already moved forward and so I was alone already. I don’t know what to do… I was already having a hard time. Zeus will definitely not stop until I crawl and stop…  It was a punishment for daring him to gatecrash at his abode.  The shoe that Hermes had given me is not giving me anymore drive.  I was already injured… My dream of reaching my goal is starting to shatter, the Fates are laughing at me now and Hades dark chariots are rampaging to arrest me.  Poor Argonaut is about to be sent to the underworld…

to be continued…

photos from Bryan Rivera, Carmen Cabiles, Carlo Serrano

It’s a Lifestyle

  First, we make our habits, then our habits make us. - Charles Noble

Nope, There no baby inside....

“Bukas Magdi-diet ako, hindi muna ako kakain… (I’ll be on diet tomorrow; I won’t eat for the mean time) Those are the words my friend utters when he found himself getting fat…  Then he will starve himself for a couple of hours within the day, only to find out that he is munching on pizza at the end of the day telling himself that he deserve a treat for dieting; and then the next day, he’ll find himself getting bigger and asking himself what he would need to do to get thin.

“I want to be a tri-athlete someday!” he said… and I was inspired by his thought so I trained myself so that I won’t be far behind when he’s already living his dream… Suddenly, I asked him to join me running one time and realized that he really never tried or haven’t started any of his plans.  I was disappointed trying to tell him that he can do it.  He said that he’s just taking it slowly and wouldn’t want to force his body. I agreed to him helplessly that day.  Time passed, and I’d never seen him do anything…

interested or determined?

So what’s my point?  I believe that fitness is not just a line segment.  It’s not a time line that will start today and end tomorrow.  It’s a never ending line that one needs maintain every time, all the time.  It’s not a stage or a season of the year because it’s summer but a lifestyle. I know we may sometimes eat a lot due to Christmas season but we should always have time to get back to ourselves and strive again for fitness.  It’s really a never ending battle.

You want to start today but don’t have the energy to do it?  Remember that there is great borderline between interest and determination.  You may say that you want to try running today and schedule it tomorrow but decline the next day because its raining cat’s and dogs and you’ll skip it until you lost the interest; however, if you are determined, you will go whatever it takes because you are determined.

I might not know what I’m saying or I’m just writing my thoughts out loud, but I do believe that at the end of the day, it’s still you who will decide.  Nobody can teaches anyone but himself.

My lunch... with rice?!

Photo of the Week: Determination

 

“In order to excel, you must be completely dedicated to your chosen sport. You must also be prepared to work hard and be willing to accept destructive criticism. Without 100% dedication, you won’t be able to do this.” ~ Wilson Mizner

I can

There were really times in our lives that we sometimes feel miserable and frustrated when our goals that are seems so close also seems to be unreachable.  There are even times that we want to give up and just don’t want to proceed. It’s all part of it.  That we are tested; yet, if we only just put our heads in the game and be determined, time will come that our we will be living in our dreams.

Let’s strive… and be determined!

YEAR 1

 Only crazy people ran a marathon; that’s what I see when I still don’t understand. 

Oh my, it’s really funny how time flies, where I am right now and where I am before I started running.  

The first time I tried the sport.

Imagine how I first started, joining a race, I am wearing a cotton shirt, basketball shorts and a pair of cross training shoes. I swore I really enjoyed that day and texted all my friends I know that I joined a 5-Km-Marathon and finished it fast at 42 minutes! Lol!  

Picture taking during the race at Power Run

That’s the start of it.  I signed up for various races and joined the takbo.ph community.  I was indeed overwhelmed on all the stuff I’ve learned.   

Timed 1:17 at this 10K race

The first group pic I took with Takbo.ph

March came and a 21Km race was launched by Condura.  Without hesitations, I ran the race and got shin splints afterwards.  The pain was there but I was definitely euphoric after finishing it.  I recovered eventually and I was never the same person again after for I stared to feel the blood of a conscious runner. I learned to wear short shorts and tights that I really never thought I can wear it in public.  Had my own hydration belt, and had gait analysis to get the right pair of shoes for me.  

I am injured... but I'll try to endure for the sake of this photo ops!

Then came different activities offered by takbo.ph community.  Trail Runs, LSDs, out of town races, outreach programs, I attended almost all of ‘em and had fun!  I even asked myself, “How come I’ve never learned this before?” 

First LSD in Montalban

On Our Trail Race

I always thought that running a full marathon is crazy and keep telling to my friends that only stupid people join a 42-Km race.  Eventually, I became one of them.  I became crazy and stupid in the eye of those who don’t understand the joy of running.  I was one of those who suffered in Subic International Marathon, yet I was also the one of those who didn’t give up and believed that I can.  

The joy in Subic is Unforgettable

Now, I am celebrating my 1^st year in running, who would have thought that I will be doing another crazy thing.  Don’t ask me why but yes! I registered for Bataan Death March; a race that will test my mental and physical dexterity.  I am not certain what will happen to yet at that event but I am willful. Right! Bid me Good luck!  

Sykes Outdoor Group

I would like to acknowledge my Outdoor Group who introduce me to running, and to my takbo.ph friends who taught me stuff to become a better person.  The knowledge that I gained from them will surely be paid forward.

Argonaut’s 2009 Running Awards

After looking back to all the races I’ve joined, I’d like to make a few on all the exceptional I believe I encountered… Let’s get the ball rolling on all the awards!

FRIENDLIEST RACE

Yeah, This one is inviting!

REACH FUN RUN,– Oh yeah! This is the friendliest of the year for me; a two-loop 5Km fun run and one would need to stop to eat four Krispy Kreme Donuts. . Despite of the number of runners of the event, I can feel the air of happiness among runners. Organizers still has to learn a lot in organizing a fun run but they let us feel that the race is fun. *Special mention to Rizal Day Run for the Ice cream, Beer and Boodle Fight.

WEIRDEST RACE

The first medal that I had that I failed to value...

TAKBONG MAY YABANG 4.4K, 8.8K – I’ve never seen such race like this before. There’s two loops and four loops of UP oval that’s just 2.2 Km per loop making it a little odd for me.

BEST SINGLET

Neon Yellow: I like!

ADIDAS KOTR – I don’t think anyone would give a violent reaction. Yeah it’s the best singlet! The only problem is that I looked so dark in this singlet because of its neon color. Too bad I failed to run on this event because of Subic International Marathon. I was registered for 21K. • Special mention to Nike Human Race singlet.

MOST SUPRISING RACE

I am indeed surprised! (Photo by Cathy Reyno)

SUBIC INTERNATIONAL MARATHON – This could be my worst race but instead I changed it as most surprising race. Did anyone think the organizers would mess up on this event? And who would have thought they won’t provide something to quench the runners thirst in the middle of the dark not to mention that it’s 42K! Surprising isn’t it?

BEST MEDAL

BongYu with the medal!

SUBIC INTERNATIONAL MARATHON –Despite of the surprising mishaps, I would still think that they have my respect as they have the best medal in my collection. If only I’m at Mayon Trail Run… • Special mention to Quezon City International Marathon

MOST GENEROUS RACE

Post Race Pic and Somewhere after the finishline would be the lootbags stampede.

FIT N RIGHT RUN – Loot bag full of Del Monte Products! That what Fit ‘N Right fun run has making it to be the most generous race. Mommy Milk Shake and Buddy Run could also be a contender but too bad I was not able to enjoy it due to my failure to wake up early.

MOST CHALLENGING RACE

Earl almost want to shot himself dead after the race...

CONQUER CORREGIDOR – Hills! Lot’s of steep hills! A 10 mile Challenge where in one dealt with steep hills. That’s what Corregidor has making it the most challenging for me. • Special mention to Celebrity Run for the race covered hill as well and that unforgiving 1.2 Km excess.

BEST TRAIL RUN

Still Breathless!

THE NORTH FACE 100 – This could be the most challenging race for me only if I joined 100K. Yet I’ve decided to run only the 20K version for me to enjoy the beauty of Sacobia Park in Clark Pampanga making this my best Trail Run Ever to date.

BEST ROAD RACE

I'm sure you don't want to see one of these out of water

CONDURA RUN, RUN FOR THE WHALE SHARKS – It was definitely a dream come true running in the skyway and the race made it possible for all of us. I got injured though after the race but it was the most delightful experience I had last year!

There you have it! I’m sure this year would be promising now that running in the Philippines had boomed! Bring it on 2010!

The Wrath of Morpheus (Rizal Day Run)

Because, I challenged a god…

Upon learning that BaldRunner will organize a running event on Dec 30, without a second doubt, I signed up for the race.

My 2nd great bib: I don't look excited right?

I was busy fixing for my bread and butter the night before the race and rested for just a little over an hour. I know it will be hard for me, but because I am decided that I need this race, I challenge Morpheus the God of Slumber.  A number of argonauts has already forewarned me that what I’m going to do is risky and could have an ill effect on me… But I was as stubborn as hell!

Baldrunner himself as we are welcomed in the race. (photo by Brando Losaria)

Drowsy, I arrived at the site with Marvin’s chariot.  Clicked my 2^nd great bib on and had a little ritual.  It’s good to see again my running friends who were all eager as well in this race as part of their training for the upcoming marathon.

At my 1st loop

Bang! The race had begun!  Selene was still around for a couple of minutes and so everything was dark.  I heard one of the Argonauts fell from his knees not realizing the path along his way.

I could say that I’m not really on my speed at the start.  I don’t want to push it much because I still have a long race to go. I bet that Hades the god of the underworld is just around and so with his minions that are looking for someone to prey.  4 loops and a quarter is what we would need to cover. 

First loop, I could still go on, though I am already feeling anxiety.  My eyes are heavy like it has weights on it.  On my second loop, I paced with Sean Williams my godfather in running.  I paced with him for a couple of kilometers.  Then, Rod joined us for a couple of minutes before I gave up with them. I can now really feel it.  I am getting sleepier and sleepier as I move and my legs are getting heavier. On my third loop, I was already with Gab who caught up with me.  We were discussing the Team BongZ were just behind us and we shouldn’t give up for they will definitely outrun us if we did. He was telling:

 

 

 

 

Gab: Nasa likod lang sila BongZ!

“Gusto ko na maglakad, pero ayoko, nasa likod lang sila… Lagot tayo r’on. (I want to walk, but I don’t want to, they’re just behind us)”.

 

Gab eventually left me at Kilometer 24; the point where I stopped to walk.  I guess that’s where I hit my wall.  I already felt nauseous seeming that the god of slumber’s venom is already tiring my whole body.   Last Km…  I was running with Mylene, an ultrarunner.  I don’t know what’s on my mind but I told her that I might not be able to finish the race.  I suddenly stopped and she immediately grabbed my hand and said:

“Wag kang bumaksak rito, hindi kita kaya, Ang laki mo eh! (Don’t give up here, you’re too big for me to carry).”

 

 

I could almost laugh after she said that.  I told her that I will still try to go on.  Before I reach the finish line, Ellen and team BongZ were already at my back.  Ellen was shouting at me not to stop and so I did. 

My Finisher Medal with the Baldie!

At the finish line, after grabbing a medal (I didn’t even know what BR told me, Oh, well, I think he’s congratulating me…) I immediately sat to rest.  Sam game me something to drink (but not the beer, lol) and someone handed me an ice cream.  I did not make it to the boodle fight though but it’s ok. It was still a great race.  Morpheus really scared me there but I was able to finish on time I planned at 3:14:57.

I swear, I don't want to stand after the race! lol!

Lesson learned was to sleep before a long race for the god of slumber wouldn’t have second thoughts of casting his venom on you.  He’s one hell of a dangerous deity.  Respect your path, respect your body…

Thank you to my inspirations in this race; Team BongZ and Team CB!

Race Results at BaldRunner’s Site

Don't be deceived by this team; The Team BZ

Thanks to Brando for the pictures:

His Set:

Set 1

Set 2

Set 3

Set 4

The Girls of Takbo.ph

Courage, sacrifice, determination, commitment, toughness, heart, talent, guts. That’s what little girls are made of; the hell with sugar and spice.
Bethany Hamilton

Watch out!  These girls are exceptional, Don’t you ever think their clumsy and all. Don’t even be deceived by their looks for they'll definitely kick your ass out!  One of them had done an Ultra, Two had done a full marathon and few of them ran a couple of half marathons! Some of them had already stepped in the podium for their exceptional speed in running. Some of them are just starting out but they are all dreaming of becoming a marathoner and even a tri-athlete someday.  A Teacher, an Editor, Dancer, Doctor, Model, Engineer, Manager, Accountant, Housewife are their proffesions, yet they were all united by a common passion for running… They are the Girls of Takbo.ph!

PS, Thanks also to Brando and Carlo for grabbing some of your pictures!

The Hills Were Alive at the Sound of Celebrity Run

New PR

I arrived at Bonifacio High at around 4Am thinking that the race would start at 5AM, paranoid of getting late for the 21Km Race. Surprisingly, upon seeing the almost barren appearance of it, I concluded that it won’t happen at my expected hour.  Come 5:30 but still the race hasn’t started though they were quick in setting it up and everything was ready. I’ve been with the rest of the takbo.ph group and discussing about our goal for that day. I said I’m just aiming for 2:10 but seriously, I aiming higher than that… Crazy but I’m now aiming for sub-2 due to my previous weight loss of 12 lbs which I think could help me in getting more speed.   

I was totally trained...

Five-Forty, and the race started.  My first three kilometers was a blast for I would think I am doing faster that 5min/km pace.  I’ve been with Luis, Pat, Sam at that point and can see fast runners like El Kyoshi and Tigerboy.   I decided to give up before reaching the fourth Km and decided to take it a bit slower. 

I would believe I reached the 10^th Km mark at 53 min; yet, I think there’s already something going fishy at the markers.  I glanced at my watch as soon as I saw the much awaited marker and I was surprised to see that it’s already at 58 min! The markers have really gone mad!  Bryan has informed me that it was over by 500meters before he left.  

With Carlo, Bryan and Pat

I just ignored the whole thing thinking that it might be adjusted at the succeeding kilometers, but it didn’t happen. I am really trying to push my self thinking that I am already late from my real target. 

McKinley… That’s where my agony started.  I’ve got a chaffing arms already (I might have not applied enough petroleum jelly) but I still tried my best.  The hills of McKinley reminded me of Corregidor and told myself that this is not even half of it so I should endure.  Mark Hernandez was already behind me at this point and begun catching up with me.  I told myself that I should hang out with him else the desired PR would all be gone. 

Two Hours has just passed and we were still running, the route must have been really longer that expected.  After finishing the race at 2:10, I was immediately informed that the route was 1.2 Km over.  What??? That long? How could that be?  Oh well, enough of ranting, at least I have improved my PR by almost 9 min (Timex Net Time 2:18:52).

Exhaustion, that’s all I can feel at that time… I was so tired and I was still panting even after 20 minutes had passed.  It must have been really hard route after all!  Oh what a day!

I had a blast with these guys...

Thank you Marvin Opulencia for the pictures

Makiling the Enchanted

Legends could possibly true… or maybe not.

I daresay that going for a dayhike in this place is not a waste of time. Tall trees and diverse species of plants are what you can see. Along the road you could contemplate about everything. It was long but relaxing. Feels like you were walking in a place were autumn really exists.

Hiking….

Diversity of Life

mushrooms

me and the gabi plant at the back

My friends trying to go up

Reaching at the summit ma be really fulfulling.

And of course rewarding!

As what most hiker-mountaineer always remind us, we should always be careful when going in for a hike. The Makiling experience I had was the weirdest I guess due to my colleague experience where in she got lost and felt like she was in a Morbius Stip. Eventually she just came back to her senses when she called our name outloud. Hoah! I hope she’s not drugged… lol!

There has been legends about the mountain… that it was being guarded by a fairy named Maria Makiling. It could be true or could be not; whatever it is, what we could always do on our end is just to learn to appreciate it’s beauty and share it to people and at the same time protecting it so that the next generation could still have a look at this wonderful place.

more of makiling here

Dare to be Fit ‘n Right Blogging Contest Acceptance Speech

“AND THE 2009, DARE TO BE FIT ‘’N RIGHT BLOGGING CONTEST 1^ST RUNNER UP GOES TO…. (Drum-roll….) ”

“THE ARGONAUT!”

“The role of the first runner up is very important, in the occasion that if the Best Blogger did not fulfill his duty, the first runner up will take place.”

No, there are no cheesy words like that in the awarding of the mentioned contest, but yes, I am the 1^st runner up…

Still the 1st loser... hahaha!

There’s a lot to be thank in this achievement.  Yes, this may be a small thing for most people but for me this is a full-size leap. I actually would have never thought that I can actually win 2^nd place in Del Monte’s Fit ‘n Right Blogging Contest. 

First, I would like to thank of course Del Monte for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the event; to Dennis Ravanzo for taking a video of me during that time when I dared to take Jim Sarret’s challenge.  My family and friends who supported me, despite of pulling everyone’s hair just to get a ballot, the impact of your vote for me that reach more than a hundred and forty  had really brought me to the top 10.  It was undeniably remarkable. 

I thank Cherry for dropping me in the event.  It was always fun chatting with you and Lorie.

Most of all, I thank Almighty God for giving me the opportunity to show to that I could somehow write and express myself and the opportunity to be brave enough to tell the world that I am fit n right!

 ‘Till your next dare…

Oops, by the way, I forgot to say, I lost 12 lbs… (As if it matters)