Milo Marathon 2019

First and foremost, I would like to announce that I did not make the cut.

I have Milo Marathon as one of my major running KPI's (key performance indicators - just like how we are gauged at work) as a runner. This is one of the hardest to get since this has a 6hr cut off. My past two races - TBR and Tokyo Marathon had a 5:40-ish finish. So, I thought I was going to finish this with a medal.

Or so, I thought.

I trained the same way I trained for Tokyo. I even logged in more mileage for this. I trained with my cousin whom I pushed to run her first marathon in Milo. Well, I trained for more miles while she did less (but she was faster so I think she only needed the long runs) than I did. I really envy those people who can do less and yet still perform ugh.

Anyway, come race day, I tried pacing with her at the first half. Which I think was totally wrong, she was faster and my legs will not have enough power towards the end if I continue on. So, I let her go on after km 23 (I think). The route had a gruelling downhill and uphill starting Kalayaan flyover to Mckinley which was something I was not prepared of (I thought I was prepared for it but seems my legs could not push through it). This is where I totally slowed down but I still ran through.

I started walking at Bayani Road, the steepest uphill in the race. Then, i run-walked all the way to BGC then again at Buendia avenue. When, I saw that there are already buses to gather the last runners, I really really wanted to hail and ride and just quit this whole thing , I was already feeling that I will not finish this on time. I just got a glimmer of hope when I checked the time and I am still around the time in the distance I wanted/planned to be. When I reached 36th km at 5hr, knew I still had the time to make it even if I walked. I still tried running it. But when I came back to MOA, I thought I only had more than a km to push on, I can still make it. But when I saw that it was longer than I thought. I no longer went through, I knew that I already failed.

I finished the whole Marathon at 6:05. Just 5 mins short of their cut off. I thought I was going to cry at the finish line for not getting the medal, but I am far too tired to feel anything and I was just happy that I finished. Now, writing this I thought also I was going to cry but I remembered the feeling at the finish line and I remembered how I was going to quit it but I didn't. I thought I was going to DNF (did not finish) it again. But I finished. So when I did not get any medal, i told my cousin (who was able to reach the finish line before cut off) that it's okay and I am just happy that it was over (we can already eat, sleep and rest, it's finally over).

Now, I am thinking of making the revenge run for next year. I want to finally cross the barriers of meeting the sub-5 marathon. This is hard for me since I am freaking slow but I am the 100m dash champion in Grade 6 elementary run. I know I have the speed in me, it's just hidden somewhere and I have to tap and let it out.

I have read that I really have to start small in order for me to achieve something big. I have to finish 5km in 30mins and 10k in 60mins. So, I really need to address that first before tackling the big things. I have downloaded some things in the internet and hopefully I can create a training plan for this.

I hope I will not give up on this. I will start after my recovery week. And let's see if this will work. Will post updates here for me to be able to document everything.

Good luck to me. Aja!

The Return of the Comeback

So, hello. I am back.

It's been a while since I wrote something here but let me tell you that I just got back (again) to running. What the hell just happened? Let me try to summarize.

I stopped due to my depression, then, when I got home to our province. I got depressed again because this guy that broke my heart gets to have someone to love, before me (and I am so angry, even with God why did he deserve it? Imma save that for another blog). But, as usual, I thought of running again. Then I did, then magically, I get to run 10k again, straight without stopping. I was amazed that I can still do it. Then the next day, I tried to do it again. Still, I did it. 😁

After that, I returned the habit of running again. Though I did join some races but not major ones and I was walking in some. But, I basically returned and lost some weight. The major thing though that made me commit to return and run races again was my first Abbott World Major Marathon.

Tokyo has always been on my mind eversince I was introduced to animé. I have been dreaming of visiting the city and when I learned that one of the World Majors was in Tokyo, I have put it in my bucket list. I joined, I think twice in the past already, and I got in once but I did not push through because I was going to visit Australia and New Zealand in the same month (my moolah is limited so, I have to choose one). Since I have been running already, I decided to just try it again. I remember registering in the middle of the month (I just remembered that the registration was on the whole month of August, then went to the site and then registered for the lottery) then forgot about it already.

Since I forgot about it already, there have been a seat sale in an airline to Taiwan and I booked it near the date of the marathon itself. Then, a friend was inviting me to join them in their Japan trip on the same month but I declined due to budget reasons. Then come September, I received an email that I got in to Tokyo Marathon 2019. I was happy and scared at the same time. How was I going to pull this off? Two international trips in one month is going to pull off my wits and budget at the same time.

Still, I registered thinking that so many people have already tried out for this and then did not have any luck and here I am wasting an opportunity. So, I registered then followed the Nike Run training plan (not religously though, just the long runs since I still have Aikido to practice as well). I was so afraid of the marathon and the cost of the two trips itself but I still went on because it was already booked.

I followed people running for Tokyo Marathon so that I'll know as to what part of the training should I be, for updates and stuff. Good thing though, a friend introduced me to the Tokyo Marathon 2019 PH group which helped a lot - what not to do, rules and regulations of the race, expo updates, coordination with the PH embassy in Tokyo and tour and meet up dinner after and other stuff. Because of these people, I knew that Tokyo Marathon had a secret cutoff.

So, I knew then Tokyo Marathon was a different ballgame than TBR (The Bull runner marathon whrte I ran my first). While the other had a generous cut off, this one (Tokyo Marathon) had a cutoff every 5kms. In their rule book, it was attainable BUT this is if you start at the same time as the person in the first corral (or if you are fast). There are 12 corrals which are arranged depending on your predicted finish time. I assumed to finish within 6hrs so I was put at the last corral. The PH group advised that it may take a while for the corrals at the back to cross the starting line. And that got me worried. I knew that I am not that fast and I really wanted to get the medal.

I read some blogs and there were some that were cut off at the 30th (some even at 35th km) because they didn't meet the time. I don't want to come all the way from the Philippines to Tokyo just to come home without the medal. So, I trained differently. I banked on the long runs and made sure I have two maintainance runs. Unlike in my TBR days, I was so lazy to do the long runs (I'd even walk in most of then). I ran the Run 711 32k race category just to prepare since this is a month before TM. I was ecstatic finishing it, it was the first time I ran the race without the dragging feeling of the long distance. I looked at the people running their 21k as I was approaching my 26th km and thought, wow I am done with your distance guys. I knew then that I am stronger for Tokyo.

I knew I did this right because come Tokyo race day. I was able to pace myself according to what I have planned. I have planned my times (I will pass 21k in 2:40, then 32k before 4:30) then ran all the way to 38th km (because I peed haha). Even with the cold 5deg temp and rain, I still finished this race stronger. I even beat my personal record by 5mins.

I think I did the training right because after race day. I thought it will be hard for me to go to the airport alone (since Tokyo was all about walks to the station, taxis are too expensive here). But, luckily, I was able to move. I could even climb up and down the stairs with no problem, unlike before that I was on sick leave because I could not move my legs. I came home to Manila safe and sound and with a medal.

So, this gave me the confidence that I can still chase my dreams of running other marathons and races. I can still run and I still have the gift. I have to train to become faster though. Well, let's see.

See you on the road guys. I am so back! 😁

The Wall

Copyrights to the owner of picture

I don't know what happened. This year, I just lost the will to run. I guess I am experiencing "The Wall".

I started this year with a goal - to run the 2016 Tokyo Marathon. The plan was jeopardized when a friend suggested that we go to New Zealand and visit our friends there. I was kind of looking forward to this and then kaput, all gone.

I started the year feeling hopeful, I registered for the Run United Marathon bundle - which means I get to run their three races leading to the Marathon race which is the last leg (starts at 21k on March, then 32k on June then 42k on Oct). Then register on August for Tokyo Marathon. I had them all scheduled out on Jan 2015.

But then, in the middle of these all. It felt like I was pushing myself too hard just to go out there and run. It wasn't as easy as before where I really make time for the run by crook or by hook. This year, I feel tired all the time and my sleep increased (and yeah did I mention, my face bloated too?).

I don't know why I lost the enthusiasm. This Dec, I ran one 4km on the first week, then another 6km on the fourth week - that never happened before.

My guesses are:

1. I wasn't losing weight anymore. I am gaining the weight I just lost and I wanted to stay and not go back to metformin.
2. Metro manila traffic have gone from bad to worst. Yes, I live approx 32kms away from my  work and I feel really really tired all the time.
3. I am not getting any faster. I want to be faster and yet, I don't see any improvements. I know my times can get better, I even joined the Milo Apex but alas. Nothing worked. I envy those people who don't have to do anything and yet they're super fast. Frustrating.

I am writing to get these all out. I am frustrated. Me thinks 2015 is such a bad running year for me, well I hope it ends there. I pray for enthusiasm again and hope that everything gets better from this point on.

Run United 2: Afroman Distance

My first afroman distance or 32k long run. I registered for the Run united 2015 Exceed Full Marathon bundle earlier this year. Meaning, I will run all Run United races this 2015 with distances progressing from 21k, 32k then full marathon on its third race.

"I will run if I didn't back out" - should be the correct term earlier. When I registered, I am positive I can always run any 21km race (road flat races) but anything beyond that, errr.. not sure.

I have ran my first full mary last year but I have a specific training program for first timers that made me survive it. Running on my own training program (or with something I downloaded from the internet) is always a challenge.

Well, I booked this bundle because of this. This inconsistency, this swing of my unmotivated self to run/exercise is something that needs attention. I also have a goal of running the Tokyo Marathon so I really need to step it up. What I am afraid though is giving up or backing out.

I have a history of selling my old race kits due to nontraining. This time, I challenged myself to not to sell it. I haven't trained well for this run. I have one 22.5km run but that was 3 weeks before the event and I did not run long after. I even did not do maintenance runs and only crammed up on the week of the race (Stupid stupid stupid decision).

So lessons are learned the hard way on this race. I was able to run at 8km/hr pace up to 19kms. After that, everything was effed up from the waist down. I have my period, and this was the strongest day flow. It hurt a little so I did not run hard. I was thinking I should be able to still go to work by Monday so I should be careful.

I was able to run-walk up to the 26th but I conceded after the 28th. I was already thinking of my strategy when my aikidoka friend, Ruwen tapped me. Then we walked all the way to the finish.

My foot and calves hurt but I really wasn't that tired. It is obvious that my legs weren't strong for this race and I used my old shoes (I think its' cushion has already worn out). I already bought a new pair but they were heavy. My shins are hurt from using it. I forgot though that the old one also hurt (another stupid moment from me thank you very much).

Even with these angry-self-due-to-stupid-mistakes moment, I am happy to say that I finished. I did not finish on my target time but to look on the positive side, I saw this as an opportunity to train for another race. I registered for Milo Marathon - Manila elims next month. So this the start of it. I really have to train and buy a new pair of shoes.

I was pleased with RunRio races as usual, with enough hydration and bananas and also sponges during the race and nice loot bags after the race. Also, I always find it safe running when I sign up on his races. And this is the only race (in the Philippines, as far as I know) who hosts afroman distance. I am happy that I chose Run United for most of my races. (No kidding!)

I hope I can blog some of my fun runs this year and cheers to all Run United 2 finishers!

Hungduan Rice Terraces Run

Hungduan Rice Terraces

I haven't seen the well known Banaue Rice Terraces. So when a friend suggested we go for the Rice Terraces run, I gave no second thoughts on joining. I said yes right away with a condition of running only the half marathon distance.

So, there were 5 of us (my running friends btw) who registered for the event but only three of us went through. We went for Shuttle's best service to take us to the area and off we went on the dawn of May 16.

This run is one of the most fun and practical run I have ever done. First off, it only costed us 1500php which includes dinner on the night before then breakfast then post run meal. And since we registered early, we also had free accommodations. How cool! We will only be paying for the transportation on our way there (which was more costly than the actual race haha but it's okay, I was after the "runcation").

Banaue finally!

We rode a van all our way to Ifugao, one of Mountain region provinces. I expected the trip to be topsy turvy starting Ifugao, but it came too early, Nueva Vizcaya had lots of road curves. I forgot that the Sierra madre mountains are also in that province and is part of our way to the Ifugao mountains (I am making an explanation because I am a geography freak haha). Anyhoo, I was seated at the driver's passenger side so amongst all passengers inside the van, I got the most sleep (very strategic of me heehee).

Stephen Felices giving us a briefing on how the race will go

Where we stayed, the Hungduan Municipal lodge. Descent and ascent from this area requires major effort (starting line is on the top of the mountain and this is 500m below - go figure)

When we arrived, most of the participants are already there. Some of them got the huts accommodation and we on the other hand got the municipal lodge (wherein I silently thank my friend, Ate Mj for registering us early and making us stay in the lodge accommodation which has toilet and electricity). The way to the lodge is already a challenge as it was situated below (as in you have to go a  downhill slope of about 70deg to get here - again, go figure). But it is okay for me, it is free, it has soft bunk beds with decent bathroom. I am already elated.

This is how I ran the "pilapils". I am afraid of heights and falling so please don't judge

We ate dinner then slept early then ate breakfast then piled to the starting line. As soon as we started, most of the people have already ran but I on the other hand is busy fixing my shoe lace (who chose to be entangled every 10seconds) and fixing my leggings (to prevent chafing - may I add that I hate the fact that my inner legs are in contact with each other.. errggg) on the first kilometer. I was able to settle after two kilometers and jogged all the way thru the Hapao Elementary school where the trail path is supposed to start.

The supposed trail path here is mostly composed of the "pilapils". I honestly don't know what its term in english but if described it is something in the middle of the rice field where people walk to pass. Funny that I wrote "walk" where participants are supposed to run this path. Well, to be honest, I walked when my foot first stepped on one of the pilapils. I got scared because I am afraid of falling, the other side of the rice fields is already a ditch going down.

Shadowfie because I am no longer alone

Upon running I built up a plan, to just walk the rice terraces area and just enjoy. I took pictures along the way and still tried to walk as fast as I can.

As soon as I returned to the road, I slightly ran until the 19th and walked purely on the 20th. The starting line is at the highest point of the area which sucks because we have to run all the way up to return.

With Mr. Stephen Felices at the finish line

Our van mate won first medal! Woohoo!

My goal is to finish before 4hrs. I actually was able to finish it at 3:54m Not bad for me! Woot woot!

I love this race. This is one of the unforgettable run I have ever done. I felt the communal spirit and the race organizer's love for the area. I loved the food btw. It was really something!

Van mates!

Happy to have met new friends along the way. It was fun knowing that my fellow vanmates also love to run outside of metro. I hope to have more runs this year and this is such a refreshing comeback for me. I thank God for this opportunity!

Congrats Team Malaya for a job well done in organizing this race and congratulations to all finishers of this race!

Happy Doggie day

Odin and Doggie run 2015

Me and my dog, Odin registered to join this year's Pet express' Doggie Run. And I know this will be one of his favorite day ever - if he remembers.

My dog loves long walks, travelling (riding vehicles and the likes) and most of all, being with other dogs. When I registered, I imagined him to be super elated for this event.

On the day of the event, I planned to have him commute via ordinary bus then ride a taxi on our way home. We took off at 2am so that there will be less people in the bus. Odin was so behaved inside the bus, honestly, I did not find it hard to tame him. I was afraid that he'll be afraid of the travel (if you did not know, ordinary buses or non-aircon buses at dawn are dangerous for passengers, they normally run at killer speeds and will turn uncautiously), but he wasn't. He observed everyone inside the bus and had half of his body on my lap and half on the seat I paid him to sit on.

Starting line

We reached Mall of Asia earlier than the gun time. I had bags with me so I looked for baggage counter and disappointed that there was none. I was misinformed.

My mistake for this race was bringing a leash that was not too sturdy for the kind of dog that I have. My hand hurt from using it and it was almost destroyed during the run. My dog was eager to go to other dogs and it was hard controlling him using that leash.

When the race started everyone took off and then my dog also started running. I was shocked to see that he actually ran when he saw other dogs run. It seemed like this was his "thing". But I was not able to run all the way because of the stupid bags. Even with this situation, we were able to finish.

Me and doggie at the finish line! Woohoo dream come true for me and dog

Enjoying his first doggie pool experience

Anxious to meet this fella

I did not expect the dog to finish the race running. I saw that he was already tired but still when I urged him to run, he went on. I am proud when we both reached the finish line running. He finished 38th out of 206 dogs! This dog had the chance of going up the ranks if not for my stupid bag! Grrr..

Anyway, after the race we gathered the finisher's loot and then went around for a new leash (which, as of the moment, is already destroyed).

In totality, I am happy for my dog for joining this event. I am happy to have him experience these kinds of things even if it will cost me some bucks. Good thing that Pet Express have this fun run which is literally not half meant on this case.

Congratulations to all doggie and doggie parent who finished this race! Woof woof!

My Marathon Journey (thru pictures)

Okay. Since there are lots of pictures on the TBR event, I am happy to utilize these photos from Photoops.ph. And also to remember everything that has happened on one of my favorite days of my life. :)

Credits to the photographers, Photoops and other sites where I have taken this picture. Sorry I wasn't able to remember all. 

My first kms, were composed of me and Ate Mj running side by side. But I'm too slow, so she went ahead. :)

And then there was this moment where it was cold and it started to drizzle, I tried making myself warm by wearing my facetowel on my face. (Best-decision-ever)

I ran out of GU so I took the last one on the last station before this picture. I am happily eating it, because it gives me lots of energy to still finish this race. 

I wore my headset at the 24th km because I no longer have the strength to run. It's all good. I was able to run some more after it. 

Seriously, my legs are dead tired in this picture. But I made sure I was smiling on all photo op. :)

This one is an exception though. My legs are dead tired, and I want to have a strong finish, so I ran on my last meters. My face says it all - game.face.on. 

And then I saw someone taking a picture and then waved at me, so I smiled back. I was so happy at the finish line. :)

Finish line moment, I could not believe I finished in under 6 hrs. My legs were not trained for it, but my heart is. :)

Thus, my new profile picture is made. I really am happy seeing the finish line tape. I felt like a super person!

Hihihi.. I finished. :)