Corregidor International Half Marathon

Distance: 21K
Time: 2 hour and 52 minutes
Date: December 10, 2011
Pace: 8:11 minutes per kilometer
Ridge Run vs Trail Run
I finally got my answer on which is more difficult between a ridge run and a trail run.  The answer is a ridge run and a trail run combined A.K.A. Corregidor International Half Marathon.  CIHM has been known to be an extreme marathon since it has an endless amount of killer hills and slippery trails.  The race would at the same time be a tour around Corregidor wherein you get to see the ruins and structures in Corregidor plus the Ocean View on some parts and an eerie experience of ghostly proportions.
Cabana

We came a day earlier and were housed in a Cabana in the resort side of Corregidor via Sun Cruises.  We were able to get some stops along the island and at the same time had an idea of the upHELL climb awaiting us the day after.  The Cabana was cozy enough for sleep and had a good ocean view.
Course and Elevation

The race starts at the south dock and leads you straight to a dark and eerie Malinta Tunnel then a you continue to climb towards Japanese Garden of Peace at about the 2K Mark.  This is followed by a descent towards the resort side and walking along the trail road just beside the sea and climbing the stairs towards the first u-turn slot.  After the u-turn slot you get to climb back to the Filipino Heroes Memorial and then trek down to the airfields wherein you get to pass a long stretch of grass area between the 5th and 6th kilometer.  Next, you go back to National Heroes Memorial and head back to Malinta Tunnel at around the 9K mark and is followed by more than a kilometer climb to the other side of the island where you get a 5-6 kilometer stretch of trail and road combination passing through the hospital, mile-long barracks and the light house.  From the 16K you get a 3 kilometer descent back to the dock area and kilometer 19 and 20 is the toughest part with a steep climb along the road near the shoreline. Finally, the last kilometer is a descent back to Malinta Tunnel and to the finish line.

At gun start, you immediately go uphill covering a 40 meter of elevation in the first two kilometers followed by a kilometer descending 40 meters of elevation and climbing back again another kilometer. This is followed by two kilometers of slow decent of around 20 meters of elevation to the airfields and climbing back another 2 kilometers of the same elevation. At kilometer 8, you get a kilometer descent to Malinta Tunnel with about 40 meters of elevation.  From there you get to start your climb at kilometer 9 wherein you get to cover 180 meters of elevation over a 7 kilometer stretch of road and trail.  You start your descent of about 3 kilometers with about 180 meters of elevation.  Kilometer 19 and 20 is the toughest part with a 60 meters elevation climb spread out in 2 kilometers.  Finally, you get to descent to the finish line in the last kilometer covering 60 kilometers of elevation.

The Race

Knowing that this was an extreme marathon because of the terrain and the trails, I really didn't know what to expect so I'll just go with the flow and take it slow and easy.

Kilometer 1-9

The first 9K consists of moderate climb and descents so I went slow on the inclines and fast on the descents.  I was able to finish this part at a steady time.  This course also had you past the creepy Malinta Tunnel twice.  The first one at the start of the race and the second one approaching the 9K mark.  It felt scary on my second round as the next runner in front of me was 10-20 meters away so I covered this area faster than my regular pace.

Kilometer 10

Kilometer 10 was the start and the steepest part of the climb.  I walked this part of the race to save energy for other parts of the race given this is a 21K race. It does take so much energy to go for climbs this steep.

Kilometer 11-15

Kilometer 11 to 15 was a combination of an uphill climb and a trail run so I ran the flat portions and slight inclines and brisk walked the steep inclines and the slippery part of the trail.  This was my first trail experience and the rain the day before made some portions of the road slippery but it was also exciting trekking in this trails as it also had some nice views and surprises in between.

Kilometer 16-18

Kilometer 16 was the start of a 3 kilometers downward descents.  Unfortunate for me, this is where I experienced my first cramps on my right calf muscles just I was about to attack the descents.  I thank some fellow runners who assisted me as I fell with the cramp and helped me to stretch and stand up during the portion.  I went for a slow jog from there on and good thing it was the downhill part so less stress on the calf muscles and was able to withstand the distance despite the cramps.

Kilometer 19-20

This was the killer hill portion of the race so I just walked this part and taking bigger stride to cover more ground instead.  It was a tough climb especially coming from cramps but I expected this part of the race so just had to find ways to endure.

Kilometer 21

Entering the last kilometer, I had my second fall with cramps on both calves.  Lucky for me that I landed on grass areas and that a race marshal was nearby.  The race marshal help soften the cramped muscles and help me on my feet again.  I just walked the remaining part of the race except for the creepy Malinta tunnel wherein I started to jog.  It was also a scary idea on what if I cramped again inside Malinta tunnel but fortunately I didn't.  I jogged myself all the way to the finish line.

Conquering Corregidor

I may be banged up big time for this one but I was able to conquer Corregidor and this medal stands out from the rest as I practically had to crawl myself up in getting this one.  It's really not a good feeling cramping up during a run but a finish is a finish and I have set myself a new PR... personal records for most cramps during a  run at 3 (2x on the right calf and one on the left). Oh well, what doesn't kill you can only make you stronger. I'm not yet done licking my wounds but as McArthur once said in Corregidor, I shall return...

Team Total Fitness Running

As always it's been a pleasure running under the Team Total Fitness banner.  Congrats to Rojan for placing 5th and Mascy and Gryf for finishing their first half marathon.

Quezon City International Marathon

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour and 3 minutes
Date: December 4, 2011
Pace: 6:12 minutes per kilometer
Quezon City
The unique treat in joining a race in Quezon City is that you get to run at the widest highway in the country, Commonwealth Ave.  I used to shy away from Quezon City based run since I am based in Makati with BGC and MOA being closer locations but this time, it seemed to be a well organized run backed by a strong sponsor, SMDC and Runnex. The different race categories are spaced apart and that would avoid an overcrowded run with 42K taking off at 4:00 am, 21K taking off at 4:30 am, 10K taking off at 5:45 am and 5K taking off at 6 am.
The Route and Elevation

The race course for the 10K category is quite simple.  It starts from the Quezon Memorial Circle in front of Quezon City Hall and goes straight to Commonwealth Avenue and with a U-turn at halfway point which is a little past Amsterdam Avenue in Don Jose Area in Commonwealth and then you take the same road back to Quezon Memorial Circle for the Finish Line.  The advantage of a straight course is you don't get much disruption of momentum because of curves and turns in the course.

Though the course way seem flat the elevation can be tricky with the first 5 kilometer of the race being a slow uphill climb with series of inclines and descents along the way which includes the Tandang Sora Flyover.  After the u-turn you get the course in reverse with slow downhill descent back to Quezon Circle and passing again through several inclines and descents along the way.

The Race

At first I was more worried about the parking than the race being not so geographically familiar with Quezon City.  I was able to get a nice parking space near the Quezon City Hall of Justice.  I did short runs of warmups and the regular stretching routine.  This race was more of a build up for longer runs so my main strategy was to run at a relaxed and steady pace throughout the race and just have fun.

I was not pace-conscious during this race and was more concerned in avoiding so much walking breaks and I was surprised when I saw my pace in Garmin. It was as flat as it can be with the blips just for short stops at the water stations.  I am used to running at a volatile pace sometimes starts strong, fade a little, recover and end strong but I'm happy I got to run at a pace I was able to sustain for the full 10K of the race and it was a decent time and a strong finish and most important of all I had fun.  Since Commonwealth is wide, there was enough room to run and it was a good thing that they did separate the 5K runners u-turn slot to add more running space for 10K, 21K and 42K runners.  It was a bit congested in the finish line but still tolerable since the 21K, 10K and 5K runners almost came at the same time due to the spacing of the gun start.   Hydration was spaced about 2 and a half kilometers apart and it was good I did have my hand held hydration.  It was a good run and the weather was cool for the whole duration of the race though the full marathoners did have a taste of rain.

Team Total Fitness Running

It was nice running with Team Total Fitness again with strong finishes in 10K and 21K categories with Andie and Richie finishing their first half marathon. Congrats to the whole team for another great race and given that we've just survived a very tough "From Tokyo with Love" a few days ago.   It's great running under the Total Fitness banner and being part of a team that trains hard and race harder.

Nathan Ridge Run

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour and 18 minutes
Date: November 20, 2011
Pace: 7:48 minutes per kilometer

Ridge Run

Running in the scenic Tagaytay Highlands route is very enticing  but with it comes running non stop uphill which makes the run challenging and exciting.  I was hooked on joining this run under the Team Total Fitness banner since I first heard about it not because I'm a glutton of pain but to experience the scenic highlands terrain.  It was a different run and I really had no idea what strategy would I employ in this type of run.  You usually attack a hilly course with a steady pace you can sustain from the foot to the top of the course but what if the climb is more than 3 kilometers at a time?  I had more questions going into this one than a game plan but all I know is that it will be a learning experience from doing something for the first time.

The Route and the Terrain

It starts near the sports center and goes on with more than 3 kilometers uphill climb with about 200 meters of elevation via Belle View Avenue until the Peak Bar and is followed by about 4 kilometers descent back to Belle View Avenue until halfway into Midlands Avenue covering 300 meters of elevation. 2 kilometers of steep inclines covering around 200 meters of elevation is next from Midlands Avenue until Belle view Avenue. Finally,  the last kilometer is a descending terrain worth a 100 meters of elevation back to the area near sports center.

The Race

It starts with an early morning road trip from Manila to Tagaytay Highlands and as we made our descent to the starting line area, we got a peek of what's in store for us and it seemed like a real challenge.  We did try a bit of the hilly route during the warm ups and running uphill proved to be too energy consuming so this will be a test on how deep your energy base is and how well you manage it.

3K Walk - After gunstart, I tried to run a few hundred meters and even at my best effort I can't seem to get a pace better than 8 minutes per kilometer so change of strategy brisk walk along the steep inclines and run on the flats and it proved to be a right move as the inclines went on for 3 more kilometers until the Peak Bar.  A good bonus though even if you are walking uphill is that the view of Taal Volcano in the foggy morning mist was splendid.  This is photography heaven but unfortunately, I'm here running and not taking photos so I'll make do with the panoramic view of the whole highlands in my mind.  The u-turn in the peak bar was refreshing with the white foggy backdrop and the soft morning breeze.

4K Run - Gravity dictates that what goes up must go down.  The second part of the run was an all you can descent from the Peak Bar going 2 kilometers back to Belle View Avenue and another 2 kilometers descent to Midlands Avenue. This was the part when I went all out in a gutsy attempt to catch up on lost time.  It does take real courage to run downhill on a fast pace as your muscles do take a beating and of course, the risk of losing your balance would mean the free fall of gravity in full effect.  It was to my benefit that I was wearing my ON running shoes as the 3d cloudtec sole cushioned most of the strides downhill.  I went full gear and running at 5 to 5:30 minutes per kilometer pace until the 7K mark.  About 500 meters to the u-turn slot, I slowed down as the downhill path become too steep.

2K Crawl - The second uphill climb was too steep and no one was even making an attempt to run at this point.  It was a slow walk as each steps of the killer hill felt punishing and the heat of the morning sun also started to creep in.  Kilometer 8 was the longest kilometer I ever had as the steep incline made it difficult to even walk.  I even tried to walk backwards to make it less stressful.  Kilometer 9 was more tolerable as there were some parts which you can jog already and at this time I am now building up my energy base for a strong finish once I'm done with the climb.

1K Run to the Finish - As  I reached Belle View Avenue again, I wanted to catch up and was so excited to finish the course already so I went on an all out sprint with 4:00-5:00 minute per kilometer run towards the finish line.  I ended up having my last kilometer as my fastest kilometer for a sprint finish.  I ended up finishing 97 out of 300 to 400 runners and as a reward I'm one of the 100 finishers who earned a medal.  A big medal for a big effort though I have high respect towards the difficulty of this course and I guess, every finisher is a winner.

This race felt more like mountain climbing and it was a battle of who had the guts to go all out on the descents.  It was a well organized and unique race brought to you by Nathan.  It also had a green concept of not using plastic cups and instead using hydration bottles which was included in the race kit.  It was well covered by organizers and volunteer photographers and it was definitely a unique experience.

I started the race not knowing what to expect and what strategy to use but I ended up learning a few more things from conquering a ridge run.  My muscles may be a bit sore at this time but those killer uphill climbs will make them stronger.  It was racing redefined and I'm glad I was part of it.

Team Total Fitness Running

This was the first time we were able wear the official race jersey of Team Total Fitness and it was another good performance for the team as Rojan Pajarin and James Orlanda finished 5th and 12th, respectively and me catching up in the top 100 finishers.  It's been a real honor to be running with the team and it does give me additional motivation to train harder as carrying the Total Fitness banner and running with support of sponsors comes the great responsibility of being the best person you can ever be on the race course, the training ground and in life.

SGV Run for Learning

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour and 6 minutes
Date: November 6, 2011
Pace: 6:36 minutes per kilometer

SGV & Co.

It's common knowledge that I started my career at SGV & Co and even up until now, I am still connected as a client of SGV & Co.  SGV Run was the closest thing I have to a Company Run and as early as the time this was just an idea, I already have said that I'll join this run.  Of course, it's also an advantage is that I get my race kit free as a client.  The objective here is just to have fun as it would be nice seeing familiar faces in the run.

Rainy Day Run

This was my second rainy day race for the weekend.  Funny, how even SGVeans was asking me if the run would push through because of the rain.  I guess, I have the image of running without regard to the weather.  The gun start was moved from 5:30 am to 6:00 am to let the rain taper a bit but the trend on runs lately has been GO whether rain or shine.  I really don't mind running in the rain as its free hydration.  As the clock hit 6 am it was now the start of the 10K race since I was in front I went with the leadpack before settling at a more comfortable pace after the first kilometer.  I think my Garmin hates a certain area in MOA as this is the second time it wasn't able to get GPS signal at gun start so just have to make do with using my Garmin just monitoring my pace on a per kilometer basis and not overall time and distance.  After a speedy start, I struggled with some stiffness in my legs in the first half of the race so just went at a 6:30 to 7:00 minute per kilometer pace before hitting the turbo button on the second half of the race.  There was a change in race route taking away the CCP area and in exchange having 2 loops in the area near the chapel until Macapagal boulevard which was a surprise to me as it may have added a few hundred meters to the total route but it's all part of the race.  After my second loop, it was 1 KM away to finish line and also time for my sprint finish.  I'm starting to get the habit of finishing strong and finished at around 1:06. It was far from my PR but I did have fun in this run.

Entourage

 

Having a run held under your former home also means you have the luxury of having an entourage to support you.  Reeah was my instant photographer, Lance was her PA and there's also Kuya Nonoy and Padie and it's also nice to see familiar faces, MFG, Mae, Eric and some former partners in SGV who bought my Total Fitness Magazine.  This was really more of a company fun run than a formal run with PR-obsessed people.  It's nice to race in this environment from time to time.  I do hope they do more of this and maybe time it during the deadline of tax filing season and the finish line being able to file the tax returns.  That would be fun.

Excess: ON Time

I'm starting to get adjusted to my ON Cloud surfer and I'm glad that it hasn't deserted me on rainy days but so sorry to my shoes for being rain drenched for the third straight run. It does give you extra energy for a strong finish.

Energizer Night Race

Distance: 3K (Actual 3.3K)
Time: 17 minutes (Actual 18 minutes)
Date: November 5, 2011
Pace: 5:39 minutes per kilometer (Actual 5:27 minutes per kilometer)
Night Race
This is the 2nd night run in the last 3 weeks and it looks like night runs are here to stay.  The loop around 8th Street in the Fort seems to be a perfect location for night runs. This one was sponsored by Energizer Batteries and its Manila installment of a similar run done in different areas.  The main enticement here is you get to have a Energizer headlight which you have to use during the run.  The headlight will come in handy on my training runs at night.  For the distance, I chose a 3 kilometer distance for a change since I usually do 10K or more and my 3K record was when I started running and was the era where I just walked the course so the goal was to set a respectable personal record for 3K distance.  Also, this would be the first leg of back to back runs with a 10K run scheduled on Sunday.
Light Show & the Rain

It was cool to see everybody wearing headlights in a run as it seemed like a light show.  It was a nice sight and with a turnout of 5,000 runners, that spells a bright night.  It was also a refreshing run as it was raining the whole run.  Nothing beats raindrop hitting your face to freshen you up from all the exhaustion.  The 3K runners were the last to have their gun start after the 5K gun start which had the most runners.    At the 3K gun start, I immediately zoomed to have more space to run and slowed down a bit after catching the tail-end and mid-pack of the 5K runners. Of course, maneuvering your way through thousands of runners is part of the run so just went on and was able to keep a fast yet steady pace without stopping at water stations and just taking several sips in my water bottle.   It was amazing to note that even if I was going at an average of 5:30-5:40 minutes per kilometer, there were kids that was able to run as fast or even faster.  It was frustrating to see two to three runners taking a short cut just half way to the u-turn in 8th Street.
The Finish
As I took my turn on the 11th Street, I went on a sprint finish towards the finish line and in a snap, a 3K run is done and over with.  I did have a sub 6 minutes per kilometer pace and a decent finish.  The course was about 300 meters longer than the 3K distance finishing the 3.3K distance in 18 minutes and hitting 3K at the 17 minute mark.  It was a successful and a well organized run.
And among the perks of being part of the 3K runners and among the first to finish you get no queue in the photo booth and closing up the story of this race is my photo with fellow Team Total Fitness members Rojan and Mario who had a faster finish.

Adidas KOTR 2011

Distance: 21.1K
Time: 2:23 minutes
Date: October 23, 2011
Pace: 6:46 minutes per kilometer

My A-Race

I selected this race to be my A-Race over three months ago and that this would be the race I would transition from a 10K to 15K runner to half a marathoner.  This race was not just 21K, it was 3 months worth of training and hard work on speed sets, hill runs and the weekly long 21K++ runs.  While I wasn't short of preparation, I was really jittery a week before as I felt that I have peaked too soon and may have lost some momentum during the taper week but I guess, being jittery is a normal reaction for someone who wants a major event to be finished successfully and that was my goal to finish with a good time and a decent pace.

Team Total Fitness Debut

This was also the debut race of Team Total Fitness and this is the beginning of a new era as Total Fitness and our sponsors (Oakley, ON Cloudsurfer, Brooks, Polar, Cep, i-pure, Chris Sports, Honey Stinger, Dermplus,  Epic Triathlon and Cycling Wear and Moving Comfort) is entering the running and multisports arena under Coach Andy Leuterio of Alpha Training Systems.  There was no bigger stage to make a debut than Adidas KOTR.  It was double the excitement as not only am I running my first 21K, I am also running as part of Team Total Fitness so it's gonna be a big day for all of us.

The Race

There were over 4,000 runners under the 21K category and this time I positioned myself a bit nearer to the front as I was determined to have a good time for this run.  I usually go for a strong start but having too little of stretching, I wasn't able to accelerate immediately so I changed strategy to go for a steady start until I feel that my legs are a bit warmed up.  I was also surprised by the sudden change in the race maps having so many twist and turns around the Fort area instead of a more straight course as originally planned. Oh well, no matter how much you change the route, it's still 21K. I found my second wind past the Kalayaan Flyover towards the second half of the race so I increased my speed a few seconds from that point and took advantage of the flat and straight course.  I also shifted my rest and run approach, resting only for water breaks and taking energy gels every 30 minutes.

Going past kilometer 15, I know this is a race I can finish and just thinking that this took 3 months to prepare, stopping was never an option.  It also pays running under the Team Total Fitness banner as you're running with more pride.  It was now back to Kalayaan flyover and knowing that the end is near, I was able to run at a steady pace. Kilometer 19 was the final challenge an uphill climb from 5th Street until McKinley Parkway and after that it was a matter of coasting towards the finish line with more flats and downhill inclines.  As I crossed the finished line around 2:23 mark, it was satisfying and all the hard work the  past three months was well worth it.

This was one of the more organized runs I attended.  It was a touch of genius to separate 21K and 16.8K runners on the way back in the Kalayaan Flyover.  Hydration Station was sufficient and even if there were thousands of runners, it didn't feel crowded and you have all the leeway to run.  The route switched from simple to complicated but as I said earlier it's still 21K.  The finisher medal was unique and definitely a must keep memento of the race.  It was a great first 21K experience.

Nike Run Manila

Distance: 10K (Actual 10.4K)
Time: 1:07 minutes
Date: October 15, 2011
Pace: 6:41 minutes per kilometer (Actual: 6:26 minutes per kilometer)

Night Run

 Night runs are as rare as they get and upon seeing that Nike had one in store, I immediately signed up.  It was more of a warm up for my 21K debut next week than an actual run plus a night run should be a real change of circumstances over morning runs.  While you go with fresh of the sleep energy on morning runs, you get to take a night run already perked up and ready to go.  Gun start was 5pm and it was still warm and humid for this run.  The run also offers a different race course concentrating on 8th Ave and International School Area and Triangle Drive area.

8,000++ runners

Upon entering the runners area, I immediately downgraded my expectation and threw all PR aspirations away with more than 8,000 runners running on a single wave and we were packed towards the midpoint until the tail end of the run.  This is gonna be a crowded run.  As the sound of the gun start rang, it took as an additional 2-3 minutes just to get to cross the starting line and right after that, it was 'human traffic'.  You can't really accelerate much as there is not much space to run and you had to swerve from one point to another just to get past all the runners.  It does get tiring trying to overtake continuously and endlessly.  I shifted my strategy to running at a steady pace and just have sudden burst if there would be areas with less runners and just go with the flow on congested areas.

The Race

The race course was congested throughout the whole run and aside from the heat and humidity, it felt suffocating to be surrounded by so many runners but a race is never about counting things going wrong but living past these inconveniences to come up with a decent finish.  I held on to a consistent pace and trying to get past as many people as possible, I just went on and on and on.  I felt tired as early as kilometer 3 but I just kept on going at a moderate pace and just stopping for several water and hydration breaks.  It was also nice that series of kids were so involved in watching the race that they wanted low fives.  At first, I was hesitant since I didn't want to drop form but seeing how the kid appreciate the low fives, I did give them my low fives.

Going for kilometer 7,8 and 9, you now get the full effect of a night run. Though there were some lighting, there were some areas that are real dark especially the last two kilometers at 8th Ave.  This was also the point I started to adding a few seconds to my speed towards the finish line and finished around the 1:07 mark.  It was of course nowhere near my PR. Come to think of it, it wasn't a bad time. Given the circumstances, it was the best I could have given.  Of course, it could have been a better time had I started nearer the starting line as it would have saved me a lot of energy overtaking but you just got to take what you can get.  In another perspective, this could be my PR for 10K obstacle run / walk course.

The race course was unique but it was too small to squeeze in 8,000+ people and there were some congested areas where you had no choice but to walk but I have to give it to the organizers that all the runners were properly hydrated and guided along the race course.  The finisher item was not available on time but the race organizers was humble enough to apologize for such and come up with an alternative solution.  There may also be some mix-up on the d-tags as  I got twitter updates for a different runner.  I hope that this does not mean, some errors in the results when it does come out. On the overall, I think the 8,000 runners had fun and seeing that Nike was able to pull in newbie runners because of its strong brand name would be plus to the running community.



Instant Picnic

We had our instant picnic right after the race with S&R Pizza, Blue Bunny Ice Cream and the World's Best Sports Drink, Coca Cola.  You do need to recover all those lost calories and sugar in your system.  It was fun and different to have a simplified picnic setup compared to the usual restaurants at high street.  And there goes another race and another story but somehow this would be my last run going solo as a new banner would debut next week and I'm really excited for that but let's leave that story for another time.  It'll be a new beginning.

Yellow Ribbon Run

Distance: 6K
Time: 34:45 minutes
Date: September 18, 2011
Pace: 5:47 minutes per kilometer

This is my first run on foreign soil and really hope I would have done 10K but run out of slots for 10K but since the flight has been booked might as well make the most out of it by going for a 6K race in Singapore. The race starts at Loyang Ave near Changgi golf course and goes through several parks and attraction like the Johore Battery, Changi Chapel & Musuem and ends at Changi Prison Complex.

They had busses pick up runners from Expo MRT to starting point and there were a lot of runners. It was fun watching 10K runners try to catch the gun start. After some stretching then we had our own gunstart and I went at full speed ahead with a pace of 5:30 mpk since the starting area was a bit downhill and slowed down a bit on km 3 as I had pains in my calf muscles and the uphill portion but was able to recover on the downhill portion before maintaining a steady pace til finish line.

It was scorhing hot as the gunstart was 8:15 am compared to the usual 5-6 an gunstart at home. There was only one water station at the mid point of the run. The finish had as entering the prison compound and just like that 6K run was over in less than 35 minutes at a very fast pace. I got my goodie bag which had a medal and a rain gear for running.

After a run that took just 35 minutes, it took me more than an hour to figure my way out of prison. Target complete and let me go back to my regular longer training runs for next months 21K but a part of me is looking forward to more runs on foreign territory and I finished at the top 5% of the runners.

Ateneo Diamond Blue Run

Distance: 10K
Time: 59 Minutes
Date: August 28, 2011
Pace: 5:54 minutes per kilometer

I was looking forward to this run as I was probably one of the first to register for this event. It's not that commom for Ateneo to hold runs outside Katipunan area so having a run held at MOA was a welcome change then add personalized bib, I'm definitely in. The race route was not ideal with 3 loops around the mall and so was the 'is-it-raining or not???' weather and 'get-your-own water' setup but I was on a mission on this one. PR or bust... Take the course at full intensity and if you succeed you set a new personal record or close to it or there's also the possibility of burn-out, either way you get to test your limits and you'll come out stronger. Somehow, I just disregarded all the possible excuses and just went at it.

I have been staying away from races and 10K runs as I'm focused on building up stamina for my upcoming transition to 21K come October using longer runs during weekend but since it was recovery week, I got the chance to go for a strong 10K again. All signs pointed to a not-so-good run as I've missed the gun start by about 3 minutes without proper stretching. My Garmin didn't start on time, my left calf muscle was a bit sore from lack of stretching, it was a wet and windy run and there were very minimal hydration station. I was the last runner to start the race so had a lot of catching up to do.

Finished at 1:02 but given the 3 minutes gun start time I missed, it was unofficially a PR run at 59 minutes and I did it by just running consistently. PR or not, this was a really good run and this definitely isn't a bust since I was a felt stronger in the last lap.

Takbo.PH Runfest

Distance: 16K
Time: 1 hour 47 minutes
Date: July 24, 2011
Pace: 6:40 per kilometers

The first time I saw the race course, I got scared seeing that you have to take an uphill climb from Fort to McKinley area and then you have to go through the full length of Bayani Road until C5 then another uphill climb in McKinley until C5 area before you get to descend on the road to the finish line at the Fort.  I didn't set my expectations high with my last race more than a month ago and that I'm considering this more of a training run than a race on the other hand, I'm also using it as a gauge if all the long runs I did for the month has been effective.  Somehow, I felt more relax with this race since it would be my first time running 16K. As long as I finish, I get to have a personal record.  I went for shorts, total fitness tri-singlet, 2xU compression socks and my trusty Kwicky Blade Light.

It's always a different feel when you are in an actual race compared to when you are training.  There's that adrenalin rush coming from running as part of a crowd and running to beat your time.  There were pre-run exercises conducted by the organizers/sponsors and then the official gun start and there I was running in a race again after more than a month of being away.  I started at a very fast but still relaxed pace taking advantage of the flats from high street area until international school area. Surprisingly, I went at a steady pace for the first 10 kilometers of the race which includes the uphill climb from 5th Avenue and Lawton and the full length of Bayani Road and back.  Approaching McKinley on the way back, I cruised on downhills, went steady on the slight inclines and preserved my energy on the steep inclines.  Got past McKinley on the 14th Kilometer mark back. It was a slight incline back to Lawton for KM 15 and cruised downhill in 5th Ave all the way to the finish line and time was 1:47 for about 16.2 kilometers (Actual Mileage). A very decent and strong finish for my first 16K.

The course was a nice one.  It felt like running two races, one in the Fort Area and another one in McKinley.  While it had uphill terrains, you still get an equivalent share of downhills where you can recover your momentum from being slowed down by the hills.  Water station was sufficient.  There were kilometer markers.  There were a lot of photographers.  Race marshals were encouraging runners to keep on going.  On a personal note, I'm really happy with my performance for this one.  I was in control of my pace the whole time and was able to pace myself well for the full 16K of this run.  I'm glad all the hill work and long runs has paid dividends and the struggle I had in my last few runs was no more.  I'm upbeat to get back to train and get better.

Extra Kilometers: Post race: there was no official timing result for this run as the organizers timing partner had computer glitches.  A big boo to technology.  Despite me wanting badly to know how I'd fared against the field in this race, I'll have to settle for me surpassing my own expectation for the run.  After all, you're main competition in races like this is yourself. 

Reebok Run

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour 8 minutes
Date: June 4, 2011
Pace: 6:48 minutes per kilometer

I consider this race as more of training than an actual race as I'm now slowly shaking off my sluggishness and really didn't set much of a goal this time.   I did like the route for this one as it is relatively simple compared to the previous runs though there was a time I stopped a while since they modified the race course from the one in the race maps.  Surprisingly, this had an earlier than advertised gun start but no complains from me since the earlier the race starts, the sooner I finish and the longer I can run without worrying about the heat.  There was ample water station and the loot bag had free drinks and a reebok cap.

I started the race at a fast pace testing how far I can sustain the pace and that I guess it lasted for the first quarter of the race including the uphill climb to Kalayaan flyover after which I decided to just go at a steady pace.  I knew I haven't build up enough stamina to go all out for a 10K.  Later in the race, the heat was now on and this time I came prepared with my visor and shades so the heat was not much of a burden this time.  I boosted the speed meter in the last kilometer once more to have a strong finish.

Overall, I think this was a good race even if its far from my PR form as I ran at a steady pace except for a few weak kilometers and was able to push myself enough but of course, I'd like to get back the speed and stamina I once had.  I know I can get back to the form and there's only one way to attain that, working hard consistently.  I need to push myself harder and longer.

Brooks Run Happy

Distance: 15K
Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Date: May 22, 2011
Pace: 7 minutes per kilometer

I didn't have high expectation on my performance for this race as I was a struggling and sluggish lately but I did have a goal to finish the race injury free given that my last race had me suffering cramps.  What I didn't expect was the late gun start, the unorganized water station and the scorching heat.  Just imagine having to endure the heat of the sun and as you approach the water station you had to queue just to get cups and water. Oh well, I need to get used to the heat wave that has been so evident even on training runs.

The runners was agitated at the late gun start since in a 15K run you'd like to run as much as you can before the sun is up.  After the gun start, I was able to run a decent pace for the first few kilometers before I felt my left calves stiffen a bit so had to slow down a bit.  The sun was up ad scorching as early as the 2K mark so it was a real difficult running for someone used to running early and at night.  It made the course feel a lot longer and tougher.

Finished finally at 1:45 mark. Decent enough but not something to crow about as this time pales in comparison to my previous 15K run but I did finish this race injury-free and this should go a long way in boosting my confidence to push harder without the fear of injury and running under this condition is such a nice and tough training.  When things don't go your way, you can simply call them lessons and this was a tough one so I guess that's something to be happy... =>

Run for Japan

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour 6 minutes (including 6 minutes of being treated for cramps)
Date: April 17, 2011
Pace: 6:35 minutes per kilometer


Running this one was a last minute decision but it always seem cool when Greentennial holds their run with the throngs of photographers and innovative gimmicks.  I promised myself to run easy for the duration of course but I guess there's something about races that brings out the best in me so still went at it and was able to maintain a stable pace during the race.

Everything seemed well until I hit the 9.5K mark as I moved towards the hydration truck, something was amiss and ouch, it was a mild case of cramps in my left calf muscle and I ended up seated in the sidelines assisted by photographers and medics just to relax the muscle and as it stabilized a bit, I asked the medic if it was ok if I can walk towards the finish line so I won't be DNF and I got the clearance and just walk of the last 500K.  A near sub60 thwarted by cramps but I guess having the courage to finish despite the odds is prize as sweet as a sub60 time.  It's also a first that I had cramps on an actual run.  Thanks to Greentennial Photographers and Medics for lending the hand when I had cramps.  It was a well organized run for a good cause and well attended.

Running is reflective of life's challenges, things go wrong, sometimes you have to stop, sometimes you have to slow down, sometimes you fall but you'll always have to finish and finishing strong is very ideal. =>

Nat Geo Earth Day Run

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 Hour 1 Minute
Date: April 10, 2011
Pace: 6:05 minutes per kilometer

I was a last minute entrance as I was hoping against hope to find a way to be able to go home and join the Baguio Run.  I had to come from my cousin's wedding and a day's tour in Subic before race day so I was really not in good shape for this one but a run is a run and anyway, I do have to make my 10k for the day so might as well do it in an actual race.

The venue was the familiar Fort terrain and with over 10,000 participants, it was quite crowded but still tried to put in some effort to be able to find some free area to run.  I was able to do good first few kilometers before I ran out of steam in the middle kilometers but was able to recover towards the finish.  At the end it was still a good time of 1 hour and 1 minute though I think I could have done a lot better if not for the fatigue but I guess, it was my best effort given the energy level that I have.  There was also very few water station in the opening kilometers but it's good I have my trusty water bottle.

It was still a good fun run and I guess it isn't fun if you don't give it your full effort so am happy to add another race in my list and I'm looking forward to PR breaking races and this time, I'll come in at full energy.

Hyundai Run

Distance 10K (Actual 10.4K)
Time: 1 hour 4 minutes
Date: April 2, 2011
Pace: 6:15 minutes per kilometer

It's quite an appeal when a run, complete with singlet, bib and d-tag is offered free so this had me interested and so was 30,000 other runners.  The group was divided in 8 waves, 3 for 10K and 5 for 5K.  With that volume of runners, the event was moved to the Quirino Grandstand, where other high volume runs is being held.  Just seeing the queue for the free race kits, you'll know that this would be a crowded run.

I was part of the second wave and decided to just on a steady pace all throughout as you can't really accelerate that much given the number of runners and somehow, applied a different strategy by running the complete course at a steady and consistent pace instead of my usual run-walk-run which has worked in the past for me.  Thanks to my new k-swiss quicky blade light, I was able to go on and on until the finish line and it didn't appear as a chore though you can only accelerate as much.  At the finish line, it was a strong 1:04 and I didn't feel to stressed out by the pace.

It was also nice to see the Manila Bay as a backdrop to the run.  I hope that I can generate more speed in this new strategy but there'll be more runs... more trainings... so there'll still be a lot of improvements to come.

Globe Run For Home

Distance: 15K
Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
Date: March 27, 2011
Pace: 6:32 minutes per kilometer

I was a bit worried about this race since I've missed a significant amount of my training after a business trip in Taiwan and 15K was not really under my comfort zone.  I've missed running a race for a month though I was still training in between so it was a GO for this one.  I really didn't know what would be a good strategy for this one either I go at full effort or maybe just sustain a 7 minutes per kilometer pace.

Full speed ahead from the get go and was able to sustain a sub 6 minutes per kilometer for the first 5 to 6 kilometers and went ahead to finish a strong 10K and from then on I knew I have to conserve my energy for the last 5K as I usually do on my long training, I alternated a strong kilometer and a steady one until I reached the finish line but not without a scare.  Going to the last 200 meters, I felt a cramp in my right calf muscle but with the finish line so close and it was a choice of walking the final 200 meter or still go at it.  I just took the risk and knowing that if I get cramps near the finish line, I can crawl my way to the finish line.  Fortunately, it went well and the time was 1:38.

I'm quite happy with this run since I can now sustain the sub 6 minutes per kilometer longer and with the distance measuring 15.2 kilometers, this was a new PR for 15K.  15K is still a work in progress but I'll be glad to cross this distance every now and then and of course, I would be shooting for a longer distance soon.

Inquirer 25 for 25 Run

Distance: 10K
Time: 59 minutes 56 Seconds (Sub60)
Date: February 27, 2011
Pace: 5:59 minutes / kilometer

The week that came before this day was real tough.  Stuck in board meeting preparations, recovering from cough and colds and struggling during training with the low energy left after a long day's work but the flat surfaces of the Fort was such a tempting opportunity to hit a new PR or finish Sub60.  Zoomed to a 5 minutes per kilometer pace at gun start which I held for almost 3 kilometers.  Finish the first 5K in less than 30 minutes so just had to endure another 5 kilometers and I have a shot at sub60 so I just kept on pushing myself.  Each time I wanted to rest, I'd slow down and count to 4 and run again.  After all the pushing,  I had an adrenalin rush as I saw that the clock was still within an hour from gun start so dashed as hard as I can towards the finish line and the end result, 59:56.  My very first sub60.

I started training with a goal of finishing a 10K run in an hour and I am so happy that the time has come to achieve such feat after months of training. Now to learn to do this consistently as this is only the beginning.

Last Man Running

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
Date: February 20, 2011
Pace: 6:12 minutes / kilometer

This is my second race in McKinley and the place is known for its tough inclines and that it happens in the start of the race.  I had another disadvantage of having a running nose, some cough and a stressful week but those can be taken aside once they hit the go button.  The first 3 kilometers of the Last Man Running was the toughest leg with the inclines going to C5 and the uphill climb going out of upper McKinley and the rest was mostly flats and downhills except for the climb back from Bayani Road.  It's always a challenging course at McKinley but it's a good thing that we spend at least a day of our training here.  Coasted in the last 2 kilometers and finished strong at 1 hour and 2 minutes just a few seconds above my Personal Record but since this is a longer course so may have been faster in this run than my PR.

It was also amazing to witness runners going at it for the title of the last man running, which could go as long as 7-8 hours of continuous running at a fast pace.  That's how passionate people can be at running.  Well, passion is a fuel that keeps people going and going even beyond pre-conceived limits.  I'm just a shade above sub 60 but I know it's still a lot of hard training to go.

Condura Skyway Marathon

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour 4 minutes
Date: February 6, 2011
Pace: 6:24 minutes / kilometer

The race started in Ayala Triangle towards the Skyway and back to Buendia going towards the Fort.   This race required two major uphill climb one at the skyway and the next at Kalayaan Flyover.  I was so excited for this run and as the race started it is on.  Sub30 again for first 5K including the climb at the Skyway and the road back to Buendia.  At the 5K mark, I got tempted by free bananas at the booth and my body reacted differently as an energy boost I expected turned out to give me a heavier tummy resulting to a struggle for the next 3 kilometers.  It was still at a fast pace but the effort put into each step was heavier.  At kilometer 8, I recovered and put in a decent pace before going into a crowded finish line.  I still was able to complete the run at a decent pace. No new PRs but given that this is slightly a longer course per my Garmin, I guess I'll take my time and my lesson to avoid anything that can make a stomach heavy during the run.

When running a race you get to run against thousands of runner but the biggest competition you have within a race is yourself.  Even as I finished as part of the top 10% of the 10K finishers, I still wanted a better time and that would be something I'll have to work for.

Greentennial Run

Distance: 15K
Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
Date: January 23, 2010
Pace: 6:32 / kilometer

Tried out 15K this time more of a training run but still did go at a fast pace.  Sub30 for first 5K which included a run towards the Kalayaan Flyover all the way to Ayala via Buendia.  After the 7K mark decided to just maintain a 7 minute per kilometer pace since the distance is longer than what I used to.  The end result still a very decent finish for this distance even if I had to ran with an anklet on both feet to protect my brittle heel.  Hydration station was overflowing, photographers from every corner and they even had a water-delivery truck giving a shower to cool down a bit from all the effort and the heat.

Testing myself over a longer distance was a success and maybe in the very near future, I will test myself again at a much longer distance.  This was never my goal at the start of the training but I guess possibilities are limitless.

Subic International Marathon

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour 1 minute
Date: January 9, 2011
Pace: 6:10 minutes / kilometers

Hello 2011!!!  Hello first international marathon!!! Hello first out of town run!!!

My first run for 2011 was spent in Subic. A better scenery, a fresher air and running alongside well trained policemen was a great motivation so this had me running at a faster and more consistent pace.  A run around the bay was really refreshing.  I reached 5K mark sub30.  My first sub30!!!  I just continued running a good pace and at the end of the run, I was just a minute above my sub6o goal and a new PR.  I can smell sub60 just around the corner.  I was running with Plantar Fasciitis injury but screw the injury once it heats up it's all systems go.  Pre-race preps was ok as we had a nice carbo-loading dinner in front of Subic Bay and had a good sleep before the run and post-run treat of ribs at Texas Joe was excellent.

Seeing that sub60 was so near had me thinking how much I had improved from the first time I joined a run. The training was a success and having great friends to run with always helps.  I know sub60 will come soon and I'll definitely train hard for shaving that minute away.

Run for Change

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour 6 minutes
Date: December 19, 2010
Pace: 6:36 minutes / kilometers

This was my first run at McKinley and it was another uphill run. I was sleep-deprived for this run having less than 3 hours sleep but the adrenalin rush should keep me awake for this race.  It was a challenging run as you had to start the climb as early as the 200 meter mark so no time to warm up but you'll have to deal with what the race gives you and so I did.  I ran full speed ahead despite the uphill terrain. The good part with uphill runs is what goes up, must go down so you can coast during downhill parts of the runs. With a slightly later gun start, the sun was up early so heat was another factor but at the end of it all, a new PR, 1 minute off my previous time and considering this was an uphill terrain, It felt great.

I took this race since I wanted to have a last run before the Christmas and I took this more of a training run than a real run but I think when your running with thousands of runners, it gets you pushing a lot harder than you used to and gives you a much better results.

ING Running 20

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour 7 minutes
Date: December 11, 2010
Pace: 6:42 minutes / kilometers

Evey race by now is a chance to set a new personal record and with the race route so familiar by now, I had a shot.  The Fort is a battlefield anew with another bank sponsoring a run.  All set from the get go and run... run... run...  and at the end of it all, a new personal record.  I managed to shave off another 4 minutes from my 10K time.  This is now getting interesting and it's just fulfilling that at the end of the run that you get to show marked improvement.  The training program is working.  I am now more comfortable with 10K and I guess my endurance is starting to improve as well.

It was a good run though even at an improved pace catching sub60 would still need a lot of work and now back to training.

KaRUNungan

Distance: 10K (Actual 12K)
Time: 1 hour 27 minutes
Date: November 28, 2010
Pace: 7:15 minutes / kilometer

This was my first vertical marathon and probably one of the toughest you can have.  The actual mileage reached more than 12 kilometer and the inclines were quite high.  The extra kilometers in an uphill terrain was a test of stamina and I'm glad that I was able to get past this race at a decent time.  The climb along the various inclines in Ortigas was well worth it.  This made me realize that I am capable of running more than 10K at a tougher course and that is I future I would gladly consider in time.  This was also one of the most photographed runs and it was really nice running in a phalanx of photographers. 

It was good running in a different terrain and surpassing this challenge was a real confidence boost.

Run United 2

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour 11 minutes
Date: November 20, 2010
Pace: 7:06 minutes / kilometers

I almost missed running this race as my car's battery got fully drained and this was the first time I was running solo so just took a cab to the Fort.  The first time I had to run on my own and I end up car less but this was still another shot at a better time.  This was one of the most organized runs with race marshals in every corner cheering you.  I just kept pushing myself in this race - limiting my usual walking rests and after all the pushing, I ended up shaving 6 minutes from my 10K time.  This made me believe that a sub60 goal was possible and I do belong running alongside 10K runners.  The race also had the best loot bag giveaways and they even had a post event souvenir mailed to you.

Finally, the first real sign that training was working.  I can't wait for another chance to run for a better personal record.

HSBC Run 135

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hour 17 minutes
Date: November 6, 2010
Pace: 7:42 minutes / kilometer

I always thought that this race was my shot at a better time which remains a thought even after the race.  I am still struggling with the longer distance and with balancing my energy in a 10K course even at a very familiar territory at the Fort.  No muscle pain, no uphill climb and yet just a one minute improvement in my 10K time.  I am now starting to think that I'm not meant for 10K but I hope everything can be done with proper preparation.  The race route was simpler, the singlet had a nice design and it was good to run with more space to run with fewer runners.

I'm starting to get the notion that running is the golf of this generation as a lot of banks is now using running as a medium to network.  That's good for me as I get to mix my profession and hobby.

Adidas King of the Road

Distance: 10K
Time: 1 hours 18 minutes
Date: October 24, 2010
Pace: 7:48 minutes / kilometer

This race was the one wherein I proceed to the next level... A full 10K Run... and this transition was not the easiest I ever had.  I had pain in my calves as early as the second kilometer.  The climb towards the Kalayaan Flyover and back was a real struggle and it was traffic in the flyover being part of the mid-pack.  I had a hydration bottle that fell several times.   I really felt that I'd finish this race at a lousy time of an hour and a half but fortunately was able to get across the finish line at much less time and the real objective of this run was just to finish.  I wasn't really happy with my time but I know there would be a lot of room to improve.

It was my move to 10K on my 10th race on the 10th month of the 10th year.  I may not have transitioned beyond my own expectation but it was nice to do it in this stage with over 12,000 runners and one of the most anticipated running event of the year.  This was a new distance to conquer and this just means I have to work much harder. Back to training for me...

Blue Water Run

 

Distance: 5K

Time: 35 minutes

Date: October 17, 2010

Pace: 7 minutes per kilometer

The funny thing about this run is that I was a bit late coming in and the end result, I wore my singlet backwards.  Well, noticed it upon gun start but of course, once the gun goes, it's time to run and so be it.  The 5K run was set in MOA again and this time 5K felt like a breeze as I already started my training at this time.  It was quite inspiring having a troop of police marching in unison and shouting chants.  Finished in a good time, I rushed to my car to fix my wardrobe malfunction. 

This would be my last 5K before I move to 10K and knowing that it was finished in a good time adds comfort to going to the next round...

Auto Review Run

Distance: 5K
Time: 36 minutes
Date: September 25, 2010
Pace: 7:12 minutes per kilometer

This event featured a glow in the dark singlet or at least a part of it.  And here goes another interesting run at the Fort as the gun start goes, I immediately made my usual dash and am now able to sustain the pace at longer intervals though I get to be tired time and again but it was an improvement and so was my finish time.  I'm starting to get the hang of running and I must have gone through the loops, twist and turns around the fort several times over by this time.

It's now beyond fun... It's now trying to outdo yourself every step of the way...

Finex Run

 Distance: 5K
Time: 38 minutes
Date: September 12, 2010
Pace: 7:36 minutes / kilometer

I was lucky enough to have some of my runs sponsored by Total Fitness c/o Mascy and the Finex Run is the first of them.  It was another run at MOA after doing two 3K here earlier during the year and this time, I'm going for 5K or so I thought.  Since the coursed looped twice towards  Macapagal, it did exceed the 5K mark even after just getting past the second loop.  I did have all the energy going into the first loop but had to struggle onwards but at the end of all the struggles is the finish line.

It was still nice to run around MOA as the air and the sea breeze is much fresher in this part of town. 

Figaro Fun Run

Distance: 5K
Time: 37 Minutes
Date: September 4, 2010
Pace: 7:24 minutes / kilometer

In the tradition of running for those cool singlets, I joined another 5K run this time being part of the First Figaro Fun Run held at the Fort.  This was the first time I did have a decent time and the first time I really exerted an effort to finish strong in a race with the Fort being quite a familiar territory at this time.  It's all systems go from the start until I struggled in the mid-part of the run and finished strong and now I get the hang of what is it to have a personal record.

I think I did get an idea that I can finish better in races like this and yes, races also equals to loot bags.  With an improved pace, things are definitely heating up...