I never desired to be in Ultra Trail
Mount Fuji (UTMF) (168km, 8100m Elevation Gain, 46 hours) because I am not really
trusting myself if I can manage that gruesome event; but I was keen to
participate Shizuoka To Yamanashi (STY) – 92Km; the shorter course with lesser elevation
gain of the UTMF Race; That one, I’m sure I can manage… 4000 m of elevation
would probably be manageable, Moreover, I think I would enjoy the race as I’ve
never been in Mt Fuji Province. For sure, It will be a great experience!
October 16, 2017 – Opening of the registration
– Not really realizing the eagerness of people to join this “prestigious” event,
I didn’t pay too much attention to it as I had lunch (Food First Right); Yet as
soon as I’m done and went to the site,
Wallah! It was closed. Heck!
The registration was done in 30 minutes??? – How could there be so many
crazy people willing to punish their selves?
I talked to Kanghee – (My Wicked
Ultra Running Friend) and he said,
It’s okay, just sign up for UTMF.
I was too hesitant; but well, I will
lose nothing for signing up, right? Besides,
they will still draw it (like a lottery) and who knows if I’ll be selected…
And then, I forgot all about it…
While I have interest to join the
race, I also have some health issues to settle as I was debating with myself to
have or not to have a gall bladder surgery.
I mean, you know, I have no clue on what’s all about that too – and internet
is scaring me on all the ugly post-surgery implications…
Nov 1, 2017. I decided that I will do my gall bladder
surgery…
Nov 1, 2017. I received an email from UTMF.
Thank you very much for registering for the ULTRA-TRAIL Mt. FUJI 2018!
We’ve
checked your racer qualifications and your registration for the UTMF has been
successfully accepted. Please make the race fee payment from the following
official registration link in order to complete your entry.
I started in a Super Sprint Distance in Alabang, Philippines – I have no idea what the Sprint, Super, Olympic back then… Whatever, I will do it… I remember I crashed, that’s okay, I get up and pushed complete the race… That was a fine day.
Fast forward…
After…
2 Sprint
9 Olympic
9 Half Ironman (4DNF)
Lots of running shoes, running gears, bike flats, running, biking, swimming mileage… That’s how and how long it took me to be an Ironman…
3.8 Km Swim, 180 Km Bike 42 Km run – A long crazy day that I will never forget
I just listed my marathon/ultramarathon journey, and I just realized that I completed my 34소 marathon/ultramarathon distance. I just wonder when I will I accomplish my 100소 marathon… Probably after 15 years? Oh, well. I’ll just be happy if I’m still running at that age.
With all these events that I have joined, I can remember many vivid things about it…
Like my first marathon – I cried, because there were insufficient amount of water provided.
Bataan Death March – My 1st Ultra, my dad passed away 9 days before the race….
The North Face – My First Trail Ultra where I lost my phone in the mountain…
The Dream Marathon where I became a dream pacer.
Bohol Ultra Marathon where I passed out due to exhaustion…
Tokyo Marathon ,Kuwait Marathon, Seoul… all have great memories that I will never forget.
I’ve not been logging my races lately but here is the recap of the events that I’ve joined
The Naked Marathon
Hi Fats!
Distance: 10K
Time: 57 min
Where: Daegu, South Korea
When: January 8, 2017
What Happened – In the middle of winter season where daring yourself out half naked is a challenge. A bit shame because the weather was not really that cold. I had little challenge in running fast because I just came from my Christmas break in the Philippines. Not really bad to start the year with a 10K!
Run Though the Jungle
River crossing at it’s finest…
Distance 34K (Downgraded to 16K)
Time: 5hrs 34min
Where: Taiwan
When: February 26, 2017
What Happened – It was raining the day we came to Taiwan, a bit flustered due to the weather because we know we’re going to have a challenging race and it turned out really difficult, mud, river crossing, mud, mud, mud… I tried pacing very slow that I didn’t realize that there is a cut off to beat at Km 10 – I was forced to downgrade to 16K so I won’t have a shameful ending. Things eventually turned out well as we all finished safe. The whole experience in Taiwan might not be as awesome as we expected but as the saying goes, when Life throws you lemons, make lemonade.
Yep, It’s cold and rainy and muddy and… Whatever!
Ironman 70.3 Subic
The Start of the Bike Leg – Something’s following the Law of Gravity
Distance: Half Ironman 1.9K Swim, 90Km Bike, 21Km Run
Time: 8hrs 6min
Where: Subic, Philippines
When: March 12, 2017
Finisher!
What happened – I had a bad feeling about this race due to my sub-standard trainings. I swim less, I bike super less, and run a lot in the mountain… My great friends – The Ong Family helped me out a lot to make my logistics less burdensome.
The swim leg was good… The bike leg was a bit tough as I struggle on a hilly road, and the running leg was, errr, hot but definitely manageable. This is my first 70.3 Ironman race that I have completed in the Philippines as I failed to complete two 70.3 Ironman races in Cebu. Maybe someday.
Pink Run
Distance: 5k
Time: 26min 26 seconds
Where: Dadaepo, Busan, South Korea
When: March 19, 2017
Running and Toastmasters Friends
What Happened – A race for a cause, I invited some of my running and Toastmasters’ friends to join as the event had quite a friendly atmosphere.
Busan Ultramarathon
Distance: 50K
Time: DNF
Where: Busan, South Korea
When: March 25-26, 2017
50K Hopefuls…
What Happened – Probably the most demoralizing race that I have joined. It has a great course, but the I felt that it lacks preparations. There were not enough ribbons and many of the runners got lost that eventually quit. I did not! I tried working on my way out every single time until I got lost at the summit of Jangsan. I eventually quit the race after finding a trail of my own… I don’t want to blame the organizer entirely on this as we were so complacent that they will provide us enough direction. Probably the next time I join this event, I would need to study the course well…. Yep, That it!
A great life is not all about success, but also of pain and defeat that can mold us to be the best versions of ourselves!
A week ago (May 27-28, 2017) I joined the District 93 Toastmasters Spring Conference in Seoul South Korea where I was one of the 8 finalists in the International Speech Contest.
I thought about many topics as usual, but the topic that I selected was the one that’s close to my heart – Triathlon! Woohooo!
While this might be boring for some as it is a totally different world from others, somehow, I am so happy to say that I got a very good response from the audience.
I started giving flashbacks of the first 70.3 Ironman that I participated in Cebu the Philippines, I crashed during the bike ride at that time and didn’t make it to the cut off! Year after year, I tried participating in Ironman events and face series of unfortunate events…
Just like anyone else, I got demotivated and felt like quiting is the best option…. Instead I configured my mindset to have fun regardless of the outcome of my journey until I finally completed the race on my 5th try!
I was nearly the last of my pack, 2nd from the last on my age group but who cares!
I completed and I felt fulfilled!
Though I didn’t really emerge as the winner, I feel content on my performance, and would definitely write a new material soon!
Whew, Time flew so fast, I didn’t even notice that the year is about to end. Soo we will bid goodbye to 2016 and welcome 2017. I didn’t write much on my blog as I have a mixed emotions of laziness in writing, being upbeat on my alleged trainings, active in Toastmasters, writing speeches, working… and many more (lol).
But let me look back on all the races that I have done!
January 31 – Yeouido Marathon – 5:24
The race began at 10AM, -6C. Han River was frozen. Two loops of 21k. Got lost at the final kilometer due to disorientation. I don’t really like this race because the road was opened and we shared the road with the bikers which was quite scary.
March 1 – Ulsan Marathon – 5:06
Good View of Ulsan! Run with my friend Laejin Park.
March 20 – Seoul “DongA” Marathon – 5:11
Finally ran in the city of Seoul. It was a packed event!
March 27 – Jeju Marathon – 5:13
Probably my sore condition after Seoul Marathon made it worse. Got to see and interact with many old runners in Korea (respect!). Ran with Jinoe (Founder of Takbo.ph). Weather was still cold at that time but of course, manageable. The beauty of Jeju is definitely spectacular!
April 10 – Gunsan Marathon – 4:58
There were so many cherry blossom trees around Korea, I have thought about Kyungju well, but for a change, I checked out Gunsan. The road is relatively flat and it was indeed a friendly atmosphere.
May 15 – Daegu Olympic Tri – 3:17
First triathlon of the season. I joined a triathlon group called Seoul Synergy! A year ago, I clocked 3:42 in this race and I was almost the last of the pack. Fortunately, I did better in every category.
May 24 – Pohang Olympic Tri – 3:09
This is one of my most memorable event. I won a wetsuit that costs around $500. Though I struggled during the bike ride, this is my Personal Best (PB) in an Olympic course.
June 12 – Gwangali to Haeundae 5K swim – 2:0X
While this is not a race, this event was still quite remarkable for me as I swam my longest distance in swimming. We wore fins though which is quite easier. I swan with my swimming group, 9-Fin.
June 17 – Busan Half Ironman – DNF
It was a bad race right from the start of the event. It was foggy in the morning and waves were high during the swim course, thus making the swim course short by the organizers. The bike was a terrible hill (for me). I tried my best to cope up but, at km 53 of my bike pursuit, I had a flat tire. I got some spare and asked some volunteers to help; unfortunately, odds were not really on my favor as the spare blew up as well. This was my 4th failure in a half ironman event.
July 3 – Sokcho Olympic Tri – 3:24
Oh this race… The race was remarkable but what’s more fascinating was my travel to Sokcho as I drove 500Km from Busan and back. It was a bit tough as I got lost going to the place and it was raining as I return. I felt so tired during specially in running. What good about this race was I was able to help someone by lending my spare wetsuit to him.
July 17 – Gunsan Great Man Triathlon (Half Distance) – 7:42
Finally, a half distance event that I have completed though it’s just a local event and not an Ironman, but who cares! The swim course is quite tough here but with my determination to complete the race, I did it!
August 15 – Uljin Olympic Triathlon – 3:22
Triathlon in summer in Korea is really bad. Or probably I’m no longer used to it. I had few mishaps in this event as I failed to get a room thus making me sleep in my car. Tired, tired, tired, but there’s no one to complained with. Oh well.
September 4 – Kyungju Olympic Triathlon – 3:15
Weather is getting better and so is my time as I slowly catch up. I did this race a year ago and felt that I performed better in the swim course.
September 25 – Gurye Ironman – 6:42
This is my redemption race from a failed ironman event a year ago, where I had a flat tire at Km 15. Thankfully, this time I prepared as hard as I could and ensured that I won’t have another bad luck. I did it!
October 1 – Ultra Trail Mount Jiri (55K) – 15:19
I was quite tensed in this event as I was trying to comeback from Ultrarunning… trail-ultrarunning. The good thing was, I met a number of runners, Hyonsim (who joined the race) and Jeongho and they helped me a lot in grasping a few trails in Busan. It was quite a fun experience.
October 16 – Gwangali to Seongjeong 10K swim (Race Stopped)
This was supposed to be a 10K event, but a week ago, a tsunami occurred in the coastline of Busan and it was raining at that time. Surprisingly, the organizers made a go signal to proceed only to cut the race in Haeundae – We manage to swim a little over 5km in 2hrs. Though the event was canceled, the decision was still a good call.
October 22 – Teongyeong ITU – 3:23
This was the last triathlon of the year in Korea. I did the same race a year ago and I for sure had a hard time. I managed to cut my time by 19 minutes in this course.
November 12 – Baekyangsan Challenge 25K – 4:22
I was just thinking of races to join and found this event. It was organized by a man named Mike Noonan who I believe did a lot of effort in bringing this race for us. We normally hiked in this mountain but I never really tried running it. I discovered a great temple and made me admire Busan more. We got a beer glass as a memento, and a victory party in a local beer brewery pub.
19. November 20 – Changwon Marathon – 4:38
There’s no more triathlon, so I’m back to just… running… lol! One of my swimming teammates was there to run a half marathon, and told me that I should try my best to run 4:30. Apparently, I did but after discovering that I missed my chip… I lost the enthusiasm and was most for the last part of the race.
December 3 – Busan Galmegi 100K Ultramarathon – 15:11
I really dared to exceed my limit for my last race of the year. A 100K race. 91 participated the event but… wait, I blogged about it already – so… 🙂
Wow! 20 weeks of craziness. People had various reactions on what I do, they say I am crazy, or wasting my time, my money, whatever but for me, I am just glad that I did it; I didn’t really thought that I can do these things and realized that I am so good in underestimating my true potential.
I am so excited for the next year to come as I booked 5 races until March. We’ll see. For sure, the best is yet to come.
At the starting line with my favorite Ironman Shirt
It was Dec 3, 2016. I found myself among the 91 participants who registered the Busan Galmegi Ultramarathon. I did 6 marathons this year (Yeouido, Ulsan, Seoul, Jeju, Gunsan and Changwon) a trail Ultramarathon (Jirisan 55K), a few Olympic triathlons and 3 Half Ironman races; those were great races but I really thought of running a 100K ultramarathon before the year end and luckily, I found this event.
To be honest, I found the cut off of this race quite… errr tight. The time I did the BDM 102K six years ago, I clocked 17:22 and then a year after in BDM 160, though my time was not recorded at km 102, I know I did at least 16hrs, so this was still quite a challenge for me, but thinking that I am a wiser (or probably not) runner now, I know, that I can so really damn do it! Thanks to my friends Hyonshim and Jeongho for giving me moral support before the race! That add up to my confidence. Hah!
Enter a caption
People were surprised to see me as I was the only foreigner in the event. They inquired where I am from and what races have I been doing. I am surprised as well to see many of them myself as some of the participants are good enough to be considered my dad, but I have so much respect for them as I have seen their performances in races that I have joined. Truly amazing!
It was probably 6oC that night. I was wearing my favorite ironman shirt, that’s good for chilly weather. I started slow as I know it will be really a long race, though it was weird because I felt my legs were a bit heavy, and here I was analyzing, maybe I didn’t rest enough or maybe my legs were still tired due to my Changwon Marathon two weeks ago – but heck whatever, “I am already running and need to suck it up whatever the odds are.”
The race was a loop of 4 which I thought quite boring, there were pros and cons but I looked at it positively (it doesn’t matter). On first loop, 3hrs 20min; I will just be ok with this speed… while I thought everything fine, I was wrong… because my drama began at km 27 as I felt my stomach was knocking and telling me that something is wrong. I ignored… but I started having chills, I endured it until I reached the nearest place where I… and that took me more than 10 minutes…
It was dark and cold… I was tried my best finding motivation. Thankfully, I didn’t give up… I did it!
After that stop, the cold wind pierced me, I needed to stop again to wear my wind breaker. At the 3rd checkpoint I told myself, that maybe it’s not bad to quit; however, I saw my friend JeongHo and gave me rice rolls and energy bars – I was already a bit disoriented that it took time for me to notice him – haha! Damn I can’t quit now.
Worried at Km 75.
At km 50 – I clocked 7hrs 20 min. I think that is bad… It took me 4 hours to complete the second loop, I immediately had some food and left the check point, and I can really feel how sore I was.
Before the next checkpoint, quitting played again on my mind, yet to my surprise, my good friend JeongHo was still there. Damn, damn, damn… no quitting!
Km 75 – 11hrs 20min… I just have 3hrs40minutes to spare… At that time, I know that I will really have difficulty… Km 87.5 – 13hrs 10 min… 7:10AM. With less than 2 hours the remaining 12.5km is easy on fresh legs, but not with mine at that time… I keep telling myself to push, but my body would no longer respond to it. I know I could finish but, not with the cutoff…
They waited for me… Even I was beyond the cut off by 11 minutes… sob.
Km99. 15hrs… Suddenly I saw the organizers – they were shouting at me, Push! Push! They ran with me… Until I eventually reached the finish line.
To be honest, I felt a very slight emotional pain of not completing the race on time, although as I try to reflect, that was my best 100km time, and I should be content about it. The organizers who walked with me were happy as well with my success; 61 out of 91 runners completed the event, JeongHo recounts that some of the marshals thought that I would quit soon, but I was so thankful I didn’t.
My good friend who supported me in the event. Finisher of The Gobi Desert 250k Ultramarathon
Indeed, it was a great day. Will I do it again? Yes!
Victory Dinner in Mabuhay Filipino Restaurant in Busan Station
Oh, It’s been a while… I have not been posting any journals since things are getting really tight, busy work, and lifestyle and all stuff; but I am just glad I took a break and decided to go to Jeju Island. An Island south west of South Korea.
I am sharing a few pictures I took using Go-Pro Hero 4 for this night’s coastal walk! It was relaxing indeed.First night shot! A man biking at duskFirst night shot!Used night settings for 20 secondsJangan Temple
November 22 and 29; Yes, it maybe silly and crazy for some but I thought of challenging myself by joining a marathon back to back in Daejeon and Jinju respectively. Due to the drop in weight, I really felt that it’s time for me to at least try a marathon since almost all the full course events that I encounter and see here in Korea only has a 5 hour cut-off.
Daejeon Marathon has fewer crowds; in fact, there was a mass start of runners aiming for 21K, 30K and 42K. There was no information about the course; or probably I was just not reading enough (that’s because it’s in Korean). The course was flat and it was only a 10.5K loop, which means we have to do 4 loops to complete the race. It was ok during the first two loops as there were 21K runners, and we became fewer and fewer until there were only the runners left for the full course.
The Daejeon Course. 10.5K loops of four = Boring but a good chance to hit one’s personal best!
The weather is fine; it was breezy, a bit cold but not the piercing cold. I felt strong the whole time, except of course the last 10K that made me just dragged myself to complete it. I eventually completed the race in 4:29. It was a twenty-minute improvement from my 4:49 record in Condura Marathon in 2011 in the Philippines. Wow! I really thought I became stronger!
After the Daejeon Marathon
It was still hard to walk for few days after the race. I was worried about the Jinju marathon, but still did it anyway not to mention I promised to my friend I’ll join him in his first marathon. I saw the course, but I have no idea about the terrain. It was too hilly for me. My mind played tricks on me as I was running on an uphill with effort thinking it was a downhill. I felt fatigue immediately after 10K, and felt that I couldn’t really make it. My last week’s race in Daejeon definitely took a toll on me. Even the weather was not favorable as the coldness was going into my spine. Old people, men and women were mostly present during the race. My god! It’s really amazing as they look happy while they were doing it! I finished the race in 4:48 min; not the best, but I think it was definitely a good experience. The good thing about this race was that, my friend and I immediately got a good massage and then to the public bath to sooth our swollen legs. We were tired but I was feeling great the next day. There were few sores but it was definitely better after my 1st marathon.
Jinju Marathon – Totally Unstoppable!
Will I do it again? Maybe, but I think I need more training. As I was discussing the event with my friend, he mentioned about the man he ran with has participated more than a hundred marathons in a year. I couldn’t believe my ears so I verified if it was a full course and he confirmed it. Wow! True or not, many older Korean look strong when they are running, they even manage to greet me as some are surprised seeing a foreigner doing a full course with them especially in the smaller events.
The Jinju Course – Hills, hills, hills!!!
December just came. No more marathons for now… Haha! Oh wait, perhaps a half marathon.
It was probably around July when District 93 (South Korea TM) declared that the event for the Toastmasters Fall Conference would be the Humorous Speech Contest. Since I have a slight idea of how to write a humorous piece, I wasted no time and immediately prepared for it. I had a discussion on this over a cup of coffee in Seongjeong Beach with my good pal Ken. Though I have already seen a number of speeches regarding Toastmasters, and I fear that people might not be irritated to hear another one, I took the risk and wrote it anyway. I thought of getting few old jokes about my old speech, some Filipino pick-up lines, Toastmasters and the cheesiness about dating. Hah! Whatever, Toastmasters is a place where I can develop my skills; I might as well give it a try?
I first delivered it in the 200th meeting in Go-getters TM Club in Busan; to be honest; it was for me, dry and too raw. My delivery was appalling and I forgot almost many of my lines. I know it could be improved. I tried it next in the club contest in Burning Brunch; after a number of practices, it fortunately worked. I had a little dilemma about time management during the area contest preparation that I felt participating was no longer a priority. I was invited to speak in TEDx, I joined the Ironman in Gurye and for that; I felt I can’t join anymore. Gladly, the odds went to my favor by closely fixing my appointments well. I won the area contest and still able to attend to some of my commitments. After the Area is the Division. I know that the completion will be tough because most of the time, I always get third and not going up to the District, so I asked two friends to sit with me on my speech to get further feedback, which I think helped me a lot and make me win the Division.
I have 3 weeks to prepare for the District Contest, but I signed up for another triathlon and half marathon event (Hah! I love punishing myself). I also committed myself in swimming during weekends and hiking, that I only have a small time to practice at night, at least I recite it with eyes closed when I am about to sleep to make sure that I am not forgetting my speech.
The Finalist of the District 93 Humorous Speech Contest 2015
During the D-day, I made sure I am ready by securing my props, the microphone and the stage.
Gratefully, a number of people were entertained, laughed at my speech, and made me win. I received awesome feedback that really made my day. I got it! My first time to win first in the district!
Of course, I wouldn’t have made it without the support of my friends, a handful of them ensured that I got what I need to succeed. Thank you. I indeed had a blast. A wonderful experience, I will never forget. 🙂
Everyone fails. Once, twice or maybe a hundred times; just like Thomas Alba Edison when he thought of creating the light bulb, his failures did not stop him from doing what he loves. It even made him to do something better, until he achieved his goal… Just like him, it may not be phenomenal, I have a story too.
Flashback – I left Kuwait for Korea in July 2014. I was a bouncing 100kg block at that time. Wooohhoooo! One of my friends even threw a joke at me that I am 0.1 ton (Damn, how could they use the unit ton on me). I know I’m heavy and big for my height but I believe that things will be okay if I workout. I’m sure it will be okay. So I started having this new life, working out, running, swimming, but nothing really serious as my diet was the same. SEE-FOOD (When I see food, I eat). I would always try to weigh myself and see very minimal changes; I joined various half marathons, but naaah, nothing. Ok, I lost weight, 1lb per month. I’m not really sure if it was a big difference… maybe, at least I’m going somewhere. I even joined Tokyo marathon in February 2015, and I was around 95Kg; 5kg in 7months. Then triathlon events came in April and finished last. At the end of July 2015, I weight 93kg; a loss of 7kg in one year.
Busan Half Marathon Finished at 2:43.
My friends see me as very optimistic person and I really consider myself the same: fit and able to endure anything that goes in my way. Then, this event came. 70.3 Ironman… A Complete Failure. I blame the full moon, the unforgiving heat and the inconsiderate marshals (even though they are not) for now allowing me to run…
Fine. No problem, I’m fine, Perfect, Try again. I was trying to console myself and so did my friends, but the truth was, it’s not okay. I returned to Korea thinking about it, and I had this realization, that I need to do something different for me to really achieve my goal.
I started planning, and logging my accomplishments manually, there are strava and runkeeper, but putting it this way gave me a sudden thrill of completing every workout.
I signed up for a number of multisport events, but I told myself that I want to be better. I created a training diary and told myself that I should do it. Whatever my reasons were when I wake up, I have to do it. I get up early to swim or bike or run. Then in the evening do the same. 7 days a week. I rest sometimes but that’s because of my work schedule. The key was I should have a good sleep. I used my common sense on my diet; eliminated sugar in my coffee and chose healthier options.
On the first 2 weeks I saw significant difference on my weight. Wow! This is working. I shared my plan to few of my friends who I know can motivate me; to keep my sanity (because I’ve never done this before). I would show them what I’m doing and they would virtually pat my back for my job. That feels good.
I consistently workout, and it showed huge results. All my races may not be a complete success but there is one thing in this pursuit that thrilled me most. I lost 10kg! I looked back on some of my photos a year ago, and it was like I’m looking at two different people, with the same smile (lol). Even I couldn’t believe on what I have achieved, just when I thought it’s IMPOSSIBLE. Then, I change the way I look at things, then it became, I’M POSSIBLE. I used my failure as my inspiration to be better, and so I succeed.
Today, I am still aiming to shred few more pounds, I just recently hit sub 2 hours in my last half marathon, and looking forward to improve my time in my marathon pursuit.
DIFFICULT, BUT DEFINITELY ATTAINABLE.
Monitored my progress with the use of Body Analyzer in the gym I am registered, while the accuracy of the Fat% and other things seemed to be questionable, it is giving me a ball park value and something to target.
After a series of multi-sport events that I have participated, I thought of signing up for a half-marathon event. I have been seriously training for quite some time now that includes a 21K long run where I clocked 2:12, so I thought with proper planning, I could beat my old 2:09 record back in December 2009.
I arrived almost 3 hours early in Ulsan, (50km where I live) where the race will be held. That’s okay, I thought, at least I would have enough time. It was cold, and I was shivering. I knew that the temperature would go up a bit so, I was not really that worried.
The race began at 9:30. I carefully paced myself to get at least 2:06. It is the first time too that I am using my Garmin-VivoActive so things are quite new to me. It was a bit annoying that the pace is showing me is in min/km but its lap count is at 1.6km. After seeing my pace on the 1st km at 5min, I just run at comfort. Surprisingly, my pace is not going down below 6. I thought I would probably be drained after 10k, so I might just as well push as far as I can go. There are times that I tried pushing below 5:20min/km but it was too much for me, to add humor to it, there was a woman probably in her 40’s overtook me, Wow! Where is this lady coming from? I tried pacing with her for a few minutes, but I guess she’s just way too strong for me. I backed off when I thought it’s not good anymore to exert so much, and I would be back at my own comfortable pace. Then another old man ran past me. Wow! Wow! What have I been doing all these years, I couldn’t even see any kind of difficulty in his face. Thanks for the pace… So much respect I have in you people.
Warm Up with my TM Buddy Laejin
After the race! Laejin finished at 1:44, Yap, at 1:36
Yap, another Filipino Triathlete here in Korea
Excitement came when I still felt good at 10K, 11K, 12K, 13K, Aha! I can still do it; although my pace declined in time after 15Km, I swore I still tried my best. I eventually finished at 1hr 53 min but it seemed short by 600m. For that, I decided to complete the 21k to justify that I did 21K in less than 2 hours. It was first time since I started doing a half marathon in 2009. The power of mind is truly remarkable; we can believe in lies by accepting negative thought about ourselves and be the product of our own beating or be more positive in creating things that you desire. I did both, but I know what I want this time; hence my improvement. For sure, we will break another 21k record soon. 🙂
After a month of Participating the 70.3 Cobra Ironman in the Philippines, I participated another triathlon here in Korea.
Getting Ready for the race
While the distance was shorter compared to the first, my difficulty was not really about the race itself but on the logistics. Since I do not own a car here, I thought at first of taking the inter-city train; however, I have learned that bringing your bike in the train is only allowed at night. I felt a bit hopeless at that time, but thanks to my friend who called the inter-city bus line and mentioned that bike is ok but it will be placed where they place the luggage. I was a bit hesitant at first because I am not certain about it. I have a number of thoughts about my bike being damaged during the trip; however, since it’s the only option I had, I took the risk. I was full of anxiety but I was so surprised that the bike remained intact after reaching Kyungju. I didn’t notice they had a mat that could prevent movement under the bus. The taxi driver knows the location of the event so it was a relief too.
before the race begins
Good Samaritan – Helped and guided me on my logistics at the site
In the transition area
I thought that my ordeal will be over but I was wrong. Due to my poor communication skills in Korean, I was unable to follow simple instructions that made my day so difficult. Like where is the bike checking area, where is the transition area. Thankfully, there was a guy that in spite of not understanding each other, he was kind enough to guide me through. He even helped look for a place to stay at that night and offered transportation the next day for the event.
Start of the Swim Wave
off to my 2nd lap of swim course
Transition swim-bike
Race day! I somehow have more confidence than before, and since we are only swimming in the lake, we had our wetsuit on; I was of course positive on the outcome of the event. Contrary to what I did before, I swam away from the buoy this time for me to be away from the crowd. The course was two laps that we have to get out of the water and return to the lake. Surprisingly, I completed the swim course at 36 my best swimming time in the Olympic Course.
The bike race was okay; four laps. I struggled a bit due to the hilly route. There was even a part of it that almost made me walk, but I tried not to, and it somehow worked. Then it rained a lot on the 2nd lap that made the course challenging. I slipped in one downhill that disengaged my cleats from the pedal – Fortunate enough I did not fall, and decided to be more conservative; better safe than sorry.
The most awaited photo-op
Laejin – good friend who helped me cover my race
the finisher medal!
The last leg – Running is somehow fine for me. Since I lost 5 kilos from my last race, I felt a bit lighter and I was able to convince myself not to walk and run at an acceptable speed. The rain momentarily stopped and it made me see the view of the lake in Kyungju and it was indeed very scenic and lovely adding to my enjoyment.
I completed the race at 3hours 21mins. Out of 80 people in my age group, I ranked 66th. I managed to improve my record by 21 min from my last Daegu Olympic triathlon which is 3hours 42 mins; last time I remember I was the 2nd from the last who completed out of 885 participant, so it’s really a milestone for me.
I signed up for a couple of race before the year ends. I am very hopeful to accomplish it good standing. I guess I just have to work harder.
A month ago, a Korean friend sent me a link about a Marathon. As I check and understood, (All are written in Korean) there’s a cut off limit of 5 hours for a marathon and 2:30 hours for a half marathon, so without hesitation. I signed up… For the half. I tried convincing few friends and lucky enough two agreed with me on my pursuit.
From Busan, we travelled for almost two hours the night before and stayed in a nearby hotel. The spring air in the city of Kyungju is undeniably blooming as the cherry blossoms gleam at night. I know, the race the next day, is going to be phenomenal!
A great number of people gathered in the event from 5 Km Runners to Marathon. It looks like it’s a quite famous event as the city is also celebrating the Cherry Blossom Festival. According to them, the flowers as many as what we saw are only blooming from late March until the 2nd Week of April; too bad that it’s not there most of the time, but I’m still thankful for the great ambiance.
Our race started at 9:10, 10 minutes after the marathon runners, people zoomed at the gun start and so do I. I was amazed and surprised on the beauty of the place as I was never really expecting it! The whole route was just full of cherry blossoms! It was truly breath taking! Somehow, it made me energized for a period of time and not to mention it was a downhill for the first 5Km. Although at the latter part of the race, having an awesome ambiance doesn’t really matter anymore due to the tiredness that I felt.
I ended my race at 2:33, it was still slow, and I was despising myself too much because I massively resorted for many walk breaks during the 2nd half of the race, but at the same time, I was glad that I improved based on my previous race where I clocked 2:41 last Busan Marathon in Oct 2014, hopefully (seriously hoping) my efforts in the future will get even better. I’m looking forward for that.
It was 2013 when I first ran Tokyo Marathon. Just for the heck of it, I signed up and got selected in the lottery together with another running friend. I really had fun during that time because it was a different kind of experience running my first Marathon in a country that I’m not really residing (Went to Kuwait Marathon 2012). After two years, I thought again of signing up, and to my surprise, I got the cut in the lottery. Again! WOW! My travel would definitely be easier this time now that I am living in South Korea since it will only be a two hour flight; however, there’s a little ordeal. I would be alone and would have to do all the things by myself; anyway, I did all the formalities in making myself physically present at the marathon.
It was still fun being in the event. It was full of vibe and the atmosphere was totally positive. While there were few runners that I know who were participating, I was unable to see them due to the massiveness of the crowd; besides, we had different assembly points so I tried to at least befriend a lone runner/traveler as well.
It was raining, it was cold, but at the sound of the gun shot, after so much of waiting, we took off. To be honest, I despite of my current weight (Lol) I tried my best to run as much as I could until I gave up after hitting the 1st half of the distance. I felt soreness at that moment and after reaching 30km, just like the old days, no amount of motivation can push me. It was just purely me; dragging myself just to end the self inflicted pain, it lightened up a bit though by seeing some takbo.ph acquaintances.
I finished the race in little less than 6 hours. I felt a bit of shame for not working hard to lose extra pounds, but at the same time proud because at that end of that day, the person who motivated myself is no one else but still me. I was a fighter psyching up my unconvinced brain cells that I can still do it despite of whatever excuses I had.
The Finisher Medal, My Unofficiall Time and the Infamous finisher towel
It was a long day afterwards – having unable to walk after a marathon, but my heart was full of joy. Of course, I will do it again.
“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” – Paolo Coelho
Ding… I received a message from a friend: “Rodel, I can’t participate in DTAC this time and since you are the second place in the DIVISION Contest for Humorous Speech Category, you are the next eligible toastmaster who can participate…”
It was mixed emotions… bitter-sweet. It was bitter because a friend, who is more likely to win in the contest could not participate due to some circumstances, and the same time sweet, for selflessly sharing his victory with me and giving me the opportunity to participate in the contest every toastmaster has been dreaming of : The District 20 Toastmasters’ Annual Conference. A conference where every toastmaster meets each time of the year in any of the following countries: UAE, Oman, Jordan, Lebanon, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain. A time of the year to search for the best toastmaster in the following category: Humorous, Evaluation, Table Topics and International Speech Contest.
Registering for DTAC L-R Natalia, Sandy, Me, Faten, Don and Lisa
Without hesitation, I declared that I am more than happy to represent our Division in Kuwait. I booked my ticket, hotel reservation and then secured my toastmaster registration; I had doubts. I partly questioned myself because I felt that this was pure luck. I am a member of 3 clubs, My Mother Club – Desert Pioneers, then Active Minds a diverse club, and another club that I am part of during the chartering, NKPIS. I failed to participate in the Club Contest for Desert Pioneers due to work and I didn’t even nail third in Active Minds, but I got the gateway to the Area Contest in NKPIS since, it was newly chartered and no one has volunteered to represent. Well, I volunteered. In the area contest, there were only 4 contestants, and yes, the universe has a way of making a secure spot for me to compete for the Division. Two of the participants went overtime and winners won by default. I got second. Haha! – Lucky me!
Kuwait Gang with Omani Friends
There were 6 contestants in the Division I contest; All of them were equally good. Thankfully, I placed again… Second. I thought that was the end of my journey because only one can represent our division… Not until that message came.
It didn’t really sink in to me until my mentor and a friend told me that I should start rehearsing; with barely a week from the D-day, I rehearsed, rehearsed and rehearsed, they evenly spent their time with me during my practice… “Oh My God! (Repeat to infinity to exaggerate) is this really happening?” I exclaimed.
with the lovely DTAC Contestants
Anxiety Attack, as I saw the hall where we would compete, it was huge! And so I had to study the stage well so that I know how I would be able to move properly. More practice… More suggestions… Thanks to the last minute comments I was able to incorporate more on my speech.
The contest was divided into two groups, a group of 8 and 7. Group A and B, respectively and I was part of the bigger group A.
Another Anxiety Attack on the day of the contest, draw lots and waiting time… My knees were weakening like as if I didn’t have breakfast… My friends were there cheering, like as if they were my crutches until inner voice coming into my mind (You can do it! You can do it!) as I listen to the music of WE WILL ROCK YOU (by the Queen). I note to myself, “Ok Rodel, since you are already here and you came to represent Kuwait, why don’t you just be yourself and give all what you’ve got? You’ve been here, just a bigger crowd… No one will judge you…” and so it happened…
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Point 1: Exaggerate! Since it’s a big stage, movements should be seen well.
Point 2: Check the spotlights. Make sure that they can see your face so that they can see your facial expressions.
Point 3: Act like a winner and feel it!
There are just few of the thoughts I had at that time, and glad that it paid off for I heard laughter in every set of my punch lines. It annoyed me a little bit when I heard a ringing phone; however, it was a good thing that I was not able to forget my spiel.
I won 1st runner up in the elimination and luckily won 2nd runner up in the finals. Oh boy! There were butterflies in my stomach when I was waiting for the announcement of the winners; to be honest, I was hoping to win, but not really expecting, for I felt that the finalists also did an awesome performance.
Being in DTAC and representing my Country and Kuwait is already an honor, making it to the finals and winning it? It way too much! It was truly a humbling experience for me.
Thank you Oman!
With this success, I strongly believe that I am just a face, for there are a lot of people behind me who has supported me and as grateful as I am when I stood in that podium to deliver a message.
Ildone – who gave me the opportunity to join DTAC. He could’ve bagged another victory this year but he selflessly shared it to me.
Hazel – my mentor who brainstormed with me on this speech in Nov 2012.
Raymond – my mentor who helped me how to deliver and tackle the speech.
Robert and Natalia – who made sure that they also hear my speech and provided comments on how I could improve it better
Deepak Vindal – who helped me secure my registration in DTAC
Satish Kumar – who constantly check on me and pursue me to attend DTAC
Don, Sandy, Lisa and Faten – who gave me more pointers the night before the contest, on how I could put more light on my presentation.
Active Minds, Desert Pioneers and NKPIS – My clubs that always allow me to grab opportunities to grow.
My Message – “And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” (Quoting Paolo Coelho)
Whether it’s in toastmasters, at school, work or family or even just a mere hobby, Your passion and wanting could lead you somewhere, with an ample amount of determination and push, the universe will conspire in helping you achieve what you want, if there’s a will, there’s always be away.
“I run because if I didn’t, I’d be sluggish and glum and spend too much time on the couch. I run to breathe the fresh air. I run to explore. I run to escape the ordinary. I run…to savor the trip along the way. Life becomes a little more vibrant, a little more intense. I like that.” – Dean Karnazes
Another marathon was held once again in Manila: The 37th Milo Marathon (Manila Leg Elimination). I’ve been participating the event ever since I started running, not that I really intend to religiously participate in this race but I was just lucky that I was here in Manila every time the race takes place. As expected, the execution of the race is awesome! The organizer, Rio nailed it once again. It’s quite overwhelming to see people cross the finish line. Some were screaming, some were on the verge of tears, some were chanting and crawling to reach the finish line. Of course there were a few disappointments of runners not achieving the cut off or the PR but it looks like everyone is on a runner’s high!
As for me, it’s another time to reunite with good old friends. It’s great to see new bloods participating and the old one’s still running and still striving to beat themselves (Too bad I missed the takbo.ph aid station as I only run 21K and not 42K).
If you want something, there are ways, if you don’t there are reasons…
It’s been three weeks now since I joined a biking club here in Kuwait and I must say, again, that it’s an oxymoron. A bitter and sweet thing; bitter because of the fear that is residing within me. Something that is preventing me from doing things that I really want to do and I want to be. Sweet because every finished course is an achievement, a conquered battle, a blessing, which I am truly grateful. Hah! That’s the drama!
Why am I saying this? Oh well, Last Friday, I arrived to our meeting place and realized that no one was there? How could that possibly be? According to a good friend, there’s no way the Friday bike session can be canceled; hence I started to wonder. Only one speculation came to my mind: they already left. I want to back out at that moment; this fear was like punching me on my face. I must admit, I am afraid to bike along the road. I am afraid of getting hit by the speeding cars and big buses. Then, I started contemplating, if I will not do it now, when? What is my reason?
Ok, before I start, I uttered John 3:16 and left the area until I reach the turning point and met the gang. I realized that there was only a change of venue on our rendezvous. Anyway, This may be nothing compared to others, I’m just glad I made it! Looking forward for greater bike rides. 🙂
Rewind: January 25, 2009 was the day I officially started running. Had I not been informed by my Sykes Outdoor friends, I wouldn’t have reached the miles I have now conquered. Thanks to them! I actually took part on my first race as what we called “nuisance” or in the runner’s mouth: BANDIT. We don’t know the rules and we don’t care. Hell, this is road and it’s for free, until I realize that running BANDIT is unethical. I myself dread to see bandits, because I felt unfair whenever I see one. Why don’t you find a race that you can pay eh?!
Fast forward; four years… I was at the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon without a bib. I was supposed to run a marathon, but due to a series of unfortunate events (blame the flight delay and the foggy weather conditions in Dubai) I didn’t have a race kit on the day it needs to be collected. I didn’t have a bib.
I am sure I will not step on the starting line like that in the marathon? No bib… No bib… No bib… I can’t run without it… It keeps reverberating on my mind like as if one who will catch me running like that, they will confront me and condemn me….
Grabbin the 10K medal
Another runner whom I shared the same fate gave me an unsolicited advice: that we should run. I refused, but he insisted. He even mentioned me to run the whole marathon route like that. He was my devil’s advocate… But you were trained for it right?
Reality check1: I paid the race for 120 USD.
Reality check 2: There was a whole day of flight delay… I almost slept in the airport to wait…
Reality check3: It’s not my fault and neither the organizer’s
Reality check4: I was not alone for I met a number of runners who have experienced the same.
I said NO firmly… NO… for 42K, but 10K would be considerable, the thought of running 42K would be dreadful on a situation like that in my opinion but 10K would be manageable; and so we joined the crowd where I think I wouldn’t be noticed Sorry, SCDM. I need to at least enjoy half of what I paid for. With a pang of guilt, I joined the 10K runner’s crowd. I was a little anxious when I reach the coral.
The foggy day in Dubai made me miss the marathon (42K)
The run started and everyone moved, Point to ponder, stay in the middle. Along the road I feel that the bystanders were looking at me so I tried going to be in the middle, I have no choice but to enjoy the whole race like as if I had a bib until I made it to the finish line. I felt really bad of not running the marathon, I guess there’s just got to be a reason, but what can I do? Whining is not an option, especially here in Dubai!
Great view at the finish line!
Oh btw, we got the shirt and the 10 finisher’s medal and I had a time well spent.
And when you want something, all the universe conspire in helping you to achieve it! – Paulo Coelho
Run Keeper record
December 12, 2012, 12/12/12. Two nights before that, a good romanian runner invited me to run on the date mentioned. Wow! What a good Idea! A 12K run on the 12th day of the 12th month in the 12th year of the 21th century. I was a little hesitant to join at first due to prior commitments but eventually, it pushed through. Hah! I was made for this indeed! With the help of my Iphone application, Run-keeper, I was able to track my progress as I keep a normal and good pace. I’m just glad I’m regaining my endurance.
Finished! Regaining my endurance again
It was a great night! Awesome winter breeze and an amazing run!
It doesn’t happen in a century right? Been there done that! 🙂
The 12K finishers of the Dozen Dash on 12-12-12 (Photo by Cristian Craita)
The Argonaut 
