DAGUPAN CITY – More than a thousand runners lit up the night sky with the successful staging of the Color Manila Blacklight Run at the CSI Mall last December 10. It was a fitting end to another grand season of fun-filled concept runs and sets the stage for an even bigger 2017 calendar.
With each participant armed with a headlight as part of the race package, the combination of light and colored powders floating in the darkness produced stunning and inspiring visual effects. Runners competed in 10, five and three-kilometer categories in a course spanning the length of Judge Jose de Venecia Extension.
All systems are set for the opening salvo for the fifth season, the flagship Color Manila Run 5 on January 8 at the SM Mall of Asia. An estimated total of 12,000 runners are expected to sign up for the 21, 10, five and three-kilometer races.
Online registration is still going on at www.trackoval.net. Runners may also opt to buy prepaid cards at selected branches of Toby’s and Runnr as well as all SM Tickets outlets nationwide and log these cards at www.colormanilarun.com.
After the Color Manila Run, the race will begin its regional series at Tanay, Rizal on January 29. What follows will be more races in key Philippine cities plus planned events in the United Arab Emirates and the United States.
5688696 - little child hold a red apple close to her face
Dieting fads are everywhere, literally. If you are one of those who is constantly online, you will know what I mean. From the Atkins Diet to the Mediterranean Diet, there are so many ways “experts” have claimed you can lose weight quickly and effectively through. What many don’t tell you though, is whether or not that particular diet regime is healthy for your individual lifestyles.
What is the most popular diet method at this moment?
This should not come as a surprise because most of us are probably “guilty” of trying it at least once in the past few years. Yes, it’s the no carb diet.
While it is true that consuming less carbohydrates like white rice, pasta and white bread can see a reduction in weight, truth is, you should not be consuming none at all. Having no carbohydrates can result in lower energy levels (let’s face it, our bodies need some carbohydrates to work properly), and lower memory retention, which will not bode well if you need those brain cells to continue working in the long run.
What is the ultimate reason for people to go on diets and what should they take note of?
People go on diets for many reasons but more often than not, it is to lose weight and look good. In our modern society, it seems that being slim while having a big appetite is the way to go, causing many a youngster to go overboard and become too unhealthily thin. As much as it is in our innate human nature to want to look good physically, there should also always be a limit.
Those of you who intend to go on a diet should be mindful of the nutrients you are taking in and also your overall health, mentally, emotionally and physically. Yo-yo diets are out of the question as the method, although allows you to lose weight almost instantly and quickly, is not sustainable in the long run, similar to the no carb diet (it is just not possible especially for Asians). Make sure the diet you are on has to be able to keep your body and mind healthy and alert and in the pink of health. And always include some form of exercise in your routine to ensure the weight is kept off.
So what’s the best method and why does it work?
To me, the best method of dieting includes doing everything in moderation. Basically, be it in the consumption of food or working out, as long as you keep your body moving and your diet clean with loads of greens, fruits and grain, you will definitely be able to see a difference in a matter of time and be able to maintain your desired physique for as long as you want.
Contrary to popular belief, protein shakes aren’t just for those who are looking to bulk up. Even if your intention is to drop the pounds, having a shaker of protein shake is important.
What is this protein shake you are talking about?
For the uninitiated, a straight up protein shake is basically protein powder mixed in with either milk (low-fat or full-cream, it depends on what your ultimate fitness goal is), soya bean or plain water. The protein powder is also not difficult to procure. Most good stores would carry a range of them, and in different flavours too to whet your appetite, no doubt.
So what kind of protein shake works for you?
As mentioned above, depending on what your fitness goals are, you may consider adding on even more protein components into your shake.
For weight loss, the simple concoction will suffice. In fact, add in low-fat milk or non-sweet yoghurt to keep the calories as low as possible while still getting the benefits from the protein. A tip for those trying this for the first time. Try mixing the powder in with something that has a good taste profile first like perhaps low-fat milk. If the protein powder isn’t dissolving, use a blender or a shaker bottle. Take sips first to get use to the taste before you attempt downing the entire thing down at one go. Once you start getting used to the taste of the drink, you can start experimenting with other forms of “mixers” to make it more fun to consume, especially if you are the type who exercises regularly.
For body-building or weight gain, you may like to think about adding protein-rich foods like bananas, oats, seeds and full-cream milk to give you the bulk you require. The consistency of this shake will be alike the milkshakes you get at Swensens or even McDonald’s but will be so much healthier and better for you in the larger scheme of things.
What are the advantages of having protein shakes after our workouts?
As we all should know by now, protein is important for our body to manufacture hormones, enzymes, cellular messengers, nucleic acids, and immune-system components. Without adequate protein, our muscles aren’t able to heal up as quickly and could therefore lead to overtraining your muscle which could lead to injury.
Thus, it is of utmost importance that we consume our protein shakes after each and every workout session we engage in to prevent soreness and also make sure that our bodies get the required nutrition to repair itself before our next workout session.
If you think I’m talking about the silly and dangerous planking antics that were all over social media just awhile back, then you are on the wrong page. The planking I’m going to talk about in this article is the one that works your entire body without you moving an inch. Well, you do have to technically get into a push-up position but you don’t do any push ups. All you need to do is stay up and stay there, in a standard pushup position.
Why planking?
Information about planking can be found all over the internet and you will discover that it can be done in conjunction with a workout routine or on its own and you will still see the results. It’s really quite amazing and I shall tell you why.
When you plank well, you are basically putting all your core muscles to the test. You are letting gravity work its magic on your body and getting all your glutes and abs to tighten and strengthen while you fight the urge to drop your body back onto the ground.
Planking does not even take up much time. All you need is one minute and you can already feel your body crying for salvation. But trust me when I say that if you plank religiously for one to two minutes a day, everyday, you will see a difference in your body within a few weeks. And all you need is a yoga mat so that you don’t slipping all over the place. If you choose to do a minute of planking before and after your workout routine, you will probably see a bigger difference, especially around your core areas, in no time at all.
If planking is so simple and works so well, then why aren’t many people already doing it?
Whilst it may sound like an easy feat (what’s one to two minutes of staying still in one position right?), imagine having a huge rock on your back while you are trying to keep your body in the right planking posture for those measly minutes. Now the challenge seems a little clearer right?
Many have issues getting into and maintaining their postures past the 20 second mark. Time will seem to pass ever so slowly and the minutes will seem like hours. Usually the ones who give up are those who give up too soon, too easily. Once you start getting used to the pain, it becomes almost like a sensation after awhile. Just like getting a tattoo or pushing yourself to run further distances.
The bottom line is, planking is so underrated yet so effective in getting you the body you desire. It’s a great way to get your body in shape and with the least amount of movement. And it only takes so little time a day! This is a quick way to drop the pounds, sculpt your body and also get you into fighting fit mode sooner than you expect.
Make sure that you inform someone that you are off running.
2. Bring your ID
Accidents can happen even to the most careful runners, so you need proper identification. If you have a healthcard, bring that as well.
3. Carry some cash
This would come handy in different ways. You may need to buy something for hydration or you may encounter emergencies that would require you to commmute or take a cab.
4. Pick routes and vary them
Use safer and well-lighted routes if you have a choice. Change them occasionally so it will be difficult to anticipate where you are going.
5. Face Traffic
This is so you can see the vehicles and adjust accordingly.
6. Give Space
Even when you’re running on the side, make sure there’s enough space between you and the vehicles. A slight bump can mean serious injuries.
7. Be visible
Make sure you are seen by the drivers. If you run at night, wear blinkers or run in lighted areas.
8. Listen
Avoid using headphones. Listening to something would limit your ability to hear horns and warnings.
9. Be aware
Study your routes and be sensitive. If you feel even a slight possibility of danger like unlit areas, fast cars, drunk individuals, secluded place, make a detour.
10. Run with someone
Running in groups or with a friend will lessen the probability of being bothered.
As the 2016 draws close to an end, the date for my final run event is fast approaching. This year, my final run event is The Performance Series’ Race 05 which is going to be held at Kranji Countryside.
Looking back, I have never regretted joining The Performance Series (TPS) runs. The experience for each race is so unique and different. For those who are not familiar with TPS: TPS is a series of 5 races that promises participants a run through different and unique landscapes of Singapore, which include islands, lakes, heartlands, reservoirs and farms. Each race promises a unique running experience and so far from my experience, it has certainly met that objective! TPS was created by runners for runners and each race has 3 different categories: 2.5 km, 5 km and 10 km. This is to encourage runners at all levels to join in the national movement of running and at the same time help promote a running culture in Singapore and also to empower individuals to take ownership of their health.
I have participated in the first 4 TPS races and here are some of the things that made each TPS race an enjoyable one:
Highlights from Race 01 – Punggol Waterway / Coney Island
Enjoyed the scenic views – Punggol Waterway was new and very beautifully landscaped and Coney Island had its rustic charms and untouched greenery;
It was my first time running on sand – super challenging but it was all worth the experience;
Nice goodie bag which included a pair of Compressport socks; and
Cool Finisher Tee – Race 01 Finisher Tee has got to be my favourite because of the colour combination (Black & Orange)!
Organisers introduced shuttle services to the event site which made it very convenient for all runners;
The introduction of three different wave flag-off timings also allowed a much better experience running the race route of Jurong Lake;
Breath-taking morning skies greeted us as we made our way to the START Pen; and
The feel of peacefulness and tranquility of Jurong Lake during the run was super relaxing and makes the workout a very nice one. It was also interesting seeing the different pagodas along the route.
Highlights from Race 03 – Gardens By The Bay (East)
Nice change of place for race entry pack collection (REPC) at the Singapore Sports Hub library, which was held in conjunction with National Day and we found extra goodies in our goodie bag!
Though I have taken part in many races where the starting point is at Gardens By The Bay (East), the pre-dawn scenery never fails to make me appreciate the beauty of the Singapore skyline. Sunrise is just so pretty especially when the morning light slowly hits some of our Singapore iconic landmarks; and
The most interesting thing for Race 03 was seeing a family of otters when I was heading towards the FINISH line. This is definitely something I would remember because they were soooo cute! One confused otter looks like it was wondering how to dash across the path as there were sooo many runners. I couldn’t help but smile when I saw them and that actually motivated me to run faster towards the FINISH line. Too bad I didn’t manage to take a photo of the otters.
Fresh on my memory was how Singapore’s unpredictable rainy weather affected Race 04! I remember taking shelter at the bag deposit tent and that the organisers had no choice but to cancel the first wave. Luckily the second wave (in which I was participating) did not get cancelled and was postponed to take place together with wave 3. When it was time to start, the rain miraculously stopped and the cool weather was awesome for a run.
The main highlight of Race 04 had to be the awesome view of Bedok Reservoir from the top of a hill after scaling the last slope somewhere between the 8km and 9 km mark. The view was just amazing!
Upcoming things to look forward for Race 05 – Gardenasia
I am excited about the upcoming Race 05 because this would be my first time running at Kranji Countryside. I have heard so much about farms at Kranji so it would be interesting to run past and peek into these farms. The START point would be at Gardenasia and pictures of that place are really pretty! What’s new at this race is that Gardenasia’s Eco Ambassadors – Titoy & Morchoo will be making an appearance and that means more photo opportunities! Most of all I’m looking forward to completing the race in good time and collecting the final piece of TPS medal to form the Singapore Island! If you are considering signing up for it, do not hesitate! Let’s make it the last and best run of 2016. Registrations have been extended has been extended to 11 Dec 23:59
Well, I hope you guys enjoyed reading this post. I look forward to seeing you at Race 05! Do say ‘hi’ if you see me 🙂 Let’s finish 2016 strong!
As much as I enjoy dining out at hawker centres, cafes and restaurants occasionally, I am a big fan of home cooked food. Although some of you may not like the fuss that comes with having to clean utensils and cutlery thereafter, home cooked food is, without a doubt, much healthier. Why? Because we get to decide how much oil and salt we want to use.
Home cooking
I cannot speak for everyone because I grew up having dinner at home almost every night and I literally looked forward to every single one of them. My mum was an awesome cook and she could dish up my favourite fish, brinjal and tofu dishes in a snap, with them tasting really good at the same time. But of course not everybody feels the same way because obviously no two persons can have the same experiences right?
Aside from the health factor, home cooked food is definitely cheaper because you purchase all your groceries in bulk. You cook a portion at a time so a one-time grocery shopping spree can probably last you for at least a week. You can also control the amount of food you need to cook, which helps if you are not intending to overindulge or are on a diet.
And home cooking lets you enjoy a meal in the comfort of your home with your family members. Isn’t this a good enough reason to dine at home?
Eating Out
And I’m not saying that eating out is a bad thing. Eating out allows us to experience different sorts of cooking styles and cuisines in different kinds of environments and ambience. There are some meals that have to be enjoyed on site to get the full dining experience.
Having meals out is also relatively fuss-free because you don’t have to think about clearing and cleaning your utensils and cutlery. In fact, you don’t even have to prepare your own food.
So… how?
At the end of the day, I believe that there should be a good mix of eating outside food and dining at home. Getting a quick meal at a hawker centre or giving yourself a treat at a café or restaurant once in awhile is still not too bad, as long as you are mindful of the food that you consume. But try and make yourself home cooked meals as much as you can. I’m pretty sure you will see, and perhaps even feel, the difference.
This year is the third time I signed up my daughter for the dash. She first joined in year 2011 when she was only 2, and subsequent year when she was 3.
My daughter at Kids Dash 2011 (2 years old) [photos by me]This same girl at Kids Dash 2012 (3 years old) [photos by me]We stopped from 2013 – 2015 because I find waking her up early and bringing her to travel to City area by train was quite a hassle. 😛
But this year, I decided to sign her up again because location has been changed to Orchard Road and run in the evening under the beautiful Christmas lights! It’s much nearer to home and no hot sun! Yay!! The T-shirt this year is of Christmas theme and little elf design. The race pack also comes with a wristband and a Christmas hat. My daughter was in the 7 – 9 years old category.
We reached Orchard Road quite early that day to shop around before heading to the Kids Dash area. Though no hot sun, but the weather was very warm and humid. I sweat a lot just by standing near the carnival and holding area. At the carnival, every game station and bouncy castle was crowded so my daughter didn’t get to play any. We were just sitting around waiting for her flag off time. Flag off for 7 – 9 years category was 7.45PM so we had to give her some food before that, she ate some bread before her run.
Her dad accompanied her to the kids holding area at around 7PM and luckily they were not too far off and were quite in front of the starting line. The organiser advised to drop off the kids and see them at the parents viewing area but her dad was worried about her and decided to run with her and I saw many other parents were also running with their 7 – 9 years old. In my opinion, 7 years old still need to be accompanied by parent especially my girl was all alone, no friends to run with her.
Kids waiting at the start line under the beautiful Christmas lights [photo by me]Daughter at Kids Dash 2016 (7 years old) [photo by me]Loving the cute Kids Dash medal 2016 [photo by me]
There were barricades all over the place and I couldn’t really see them running but could only wait for them near the finish area. There were many smokers smoking at the rubbish bins near the barricade area. Parents and kids who wanted to watch them had to breathe in the second hand smoke. Sorry to say that I hate smokers. 🙁
I think the organiser made a good decision to have the Kids Dash on Saturday evening at Orchard road so that kids can soak in the Christmas atmosphere and do not need to run under the blazing sun. It’s also easy for parents who are taking part in the marathon in the next day morning because they don’t have to rush here and there bringing children around in the morning after their own race. 🙂 I didn’t join the race, no fate with SCMS I guess. Next year maybe!
Kids Dash is non competitive. It’s just for kids to have fun running and to experience what a race is like 🙂
MY RACE JOURNEY – It was a year-long mind preparation as I thought of taking part again on what I considered to be the ultimate event in my running journey to close the year 2016. A newbie in the running scene who can hardly finish a 4 kilometer set target a couple of years back, I just ran my third full marathon and this is my second year participating in this annual Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore celebrating its 15th year.
🔹 Digital Queue. I was quite hesitant to register for another full marathon after my 2 prevoius marathon experiences. They were all awful with plenty of unpleasant encounters making me almost cry while running, cramped and blistered all over, felt like DNF-ing and almost crawled my way to the finish. Until an ad by Marathon Sg regarding an online challenge, which made me so curious about and excited at the same time. It is a 7 day challenge whereby a specific task is given each day and all you need to do is to post the challenge on your social media accounts e.g. facebook, instagram and twitter. Every like and share accounts to an equivalent score and about 100 participants with the most accumulated points after the 7 day period were given free race entries with special prizes for the top 10. I was so thrilled that in contrary to my claimed introvert self, I flooded my social media accounts with all the needed posts to get to the top 100 spot. Fortunate enough, I bagged the 70+ place and that’s it, no more turning back, no more contemplating, I’m in for another 42km challenge for free with a limited edition SCMS shirt by Brooks.
SCMS Digital Queue. Won a free race entry and a limited ed shirt by Brooks
🔹 Warm Up Run. There was an official warm up run held at the Sportshub few months back but I was taking part in the ASICS City Relay happening in the evening of that same day so I decided to drop it.
Fresh from Blackmores Sydney Marathon, I and my Mizuno CBD buddies took part in the Asics Relay.
🔹 Training. I had so much anxiety as to whether I would improve my timing this time running my 3rd full marathon. Previously, I didn’t really train intensively enough. Furthermore, the longest run I have ever done before in preparation (if you call it preparation) for SCMS2015 were the 21 km races. After a 5:45 finish for my maiden full marathon, I learned that I needed to put in much more effort if I really wanted to get good results.
SCMS2015. Clocked a 5:45 base finish time. Sufferred fever and chills when I reached home. haha
Aimed for a better timing for Sundown Marathon 2016 but I did no better training. I stuck on to a similar routine so it was never a mystery to me why I ended up with the same bad timing of 05:30.
OSIM SUNDOWN MARATHON 2016. With my other kuya Noel G. who is still running in his 50s. I remember he finished earlier than me by a few minutes.
I am just thankful that somehow I managed to fit in to a group of people of the same interest with genuine passion to continue improve themselves as runners. On top of the Mizuno CBD group where I first picked up so much useful techniques and pieces of advise from prime coach Lexus, I also met a group of Filipino runners whom I joined in consistently for long runs designed mainly for SCMS 2016. I feel running with a group greatly helps in the overall development of a runner.
Mizuno CBD Runners. Photo Credit: Ming HamLSD Training. Bumped into the elite Jenny Huang at the Coney Island trail at one the of our LSD weekends. Photo Credit: Pinoy-Sg Runners
Few months before SCMS, whilst working on shifts, my after work days has become a bit tight. Monday evenings is for my spiritual family, Wednesday evening is my Mizuno CBD/Pinoy-Sg alternate speed and endurance training and then one of the weekends is my long run. Recently, me and wife made Tuesday evenings a special run/workout bonding together with our little 6 year old miss biking as we run at a park nearby our block.
Our Tuesday night bonding. Notice the super moon on its second night as viewed in Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park.
🔹 REPC. Race pack collection was smooth. I went to collect mine on the first evening at the race expo. There were designated queues for every category with a lot of counters to accommodate the large crowd making race pack collection a not so dreaded experience.
SCMS2016 REPC. Some runners praying while queueing to get their race packs fast!
🔹 Race Eve. My colleagues planned an early Christmas party and they all decided to gather on 3rd December, yes a day before the race when I should be resting. In fact I considered not showing up because it is the “main event” the next day thinking that it is a party -there’ll be food and drinks (that includes alcohol) and definitely will end late. Instead, I suggested to start early as 3PM so we can have all the needed time socializing and catching up. Understanding my colleagues and friends were, they agreed on to my suggestion so I was able to give myself up to 8PM only. What happened next? I ended up saying my good bye at 9PM+ with a bottle of beer consumed with my belly so full of whatever that was brought for potluck and reached home about 10PM. My running buddies retired as early as 7pm while me stayed out til late and dropped the Discipline in the 3 D’s.
Colleagues and family gathered for an early Christmas party as most of them will be going for a holiday soon.
🔹 Race Day. 1:30AM, my alarm rang and I was shocked waking up to a bloated stomach. I didn’t want to worry so I calmly rushed to the toilet and managed to release all the gas which is kind of alarming still because there was only gas if you know what I mean. With all my stuff already prepared a day before, I drunk my coffee and asked my wife that I will be eating the sandwich she prepared at the site.
As no train services this year due to maintenance happening on that day I was again rushing like always for the 2AM bus pick up. However, I saw no runners at the usual shuttle bus venue. Not reading the event guide, I was surprised to learned that the bus services are at the bus interchange this time soon as I saw 2 guys (not on running attire but i assumed that it’s a running bag they are carrying) at the empty crossing rushing towards AMK hub. No wonder I see no shuttle buses at the MRT side and runners as well! Well, it is really too early though considering the flag off of the first wave is at 4:30AM. I managed to have a bit of chit-chat with one of the guys and he shared that he, like me, didn’t know about the pick up location until he saw the SBS bus with a sign SCMS going in to the AMK bus interchange.
Having reached the location early, I went in straight to Cineleisure Orchard Shopping Mall to change and put on my gear and attempted once more for a toilet session where I succeed (LOL!) Feeling so light then, I walked out of the shopping mall, saw runners all over the place (some even smoking!) and went on to meet my running buddies at the baggage deposit. Opposite the bag drop were a few portaloos with queues slowly building up. It is a relief that i didn’t need to queue for it. The baggage crews were very helpful and I find the place much better this year where the baggage trucks were located not so telescopic from the pens. Last year was so far beyond Wheelock place which was an awful distance from the start pens at Orchard road.
Before the run photo. Photo credit: Pinoy-Sg Runners
As my buddies gathered together and waited for few more, we did our own warm ups and then we went in to the pen D. It was nice to change smiles and waves and all the bests to familiar faces.
Our wave flagged off at approximately 12 minutes after the first wave. With a set target of sub 5 hours finish (actually dreamed of 4:30), I felt that joyous moment that I get to finally showcase what I have had worked hard for, as we slowly advanced to the real start point and off we went.
I planned a 6 min pace all the way can be slower but aimed not to push and exhaust myself at a pace faster than that. Me and my buddies kuya Noel and Amiel had a good start pace reminding them to slow down every time we tend to run a bit faster than planned (actually my plan, unknown to me is their pace plan and their own target finish time). A glitch at the GPS signal happened at 5 or 6 km onward so we were a bit lost there. In front of us were the 4:15 Hr pacers so we decided to overtake and keep up in front of them. Constantly checking my watch, I noticed we were running way too fast than planned though unsure of watch’s accuracy then. Trusting my watch, I slowed down a bit and kept a 6 mins pace accordingly. From there I slowly lost my buddies from sight.
At the Marina barrage, I felt something wrong with my stomach. This was something I was very worried with to happen on this race! I stopped to pee and felt my stomach pain went off. I was praying then that that dreadful feeling wont come back ever again. I slowly went back to pace together with the sea of blues and greens and tried to catch up. The pitch-black pathway at the Marina Golf Course is lit this time easing runners on the transit to ECP. Cursing inside, my tummy hurt again so bad that I told myself I had to deal with this ASAP. I planned to unload at the first toilet at ECP and lucky enough, one of the cubicles is unoccupied when I reached. It was so terrible that I spent about 4-5 mins in there. So conscious about the time and feeling so relieved then, I quickly went back to catch up with the wasted minutes. I went on at a constant but slower pace than planned. Far in front of me along the the low lit ECP, I saw a guy who just stumbled, fell down and even rolled but to my surprise, no runners stopped to help him. There were no volunteers too. I tried to run faster to help him but I couldn’t. I saw him quickly stood up and went back to running. As I approached I tried yelling how is he doing and I hoped he wasn’t that hurt, he said he was okay and thanked me for the concern. I found out as i ran past him that he is already a middle aged uncle with a running bib! I managed to shout “Jia you Uncle, run safe!”
Whoa! Tried my best to look great at the 27 km though I feel I am going to collapse anytime soon! Photo Credit: SY Snowy
At the 28 km, I started to struggle. At some point my mind was telling me not to stop where my body couldn’t do it anymore. The sun is already up with its gentle rays. I am so much far behind my 4:30 goal. At 30 kilometer, I am at 3:30 add one more hour 15 minutes for another 10 km and I am about 4:45 to the 40th km mark. I am encouraging myself, I am fine, 4:59 is still sub 5, I shouldn’t give up! I ran-walked from 30 km onward. Seeing the huge mist fans made went on too! I wanted to spend my walk in it. It was one of my suggestions during last year’s SCMS. Something different this year also is the absence of that killer Sheares’ bridge, not much of uphill slopes for the entire course which made the last stretch more bearable for me. At the final turn at the iconic Esplanade Theater, the sun shone its fiercest. I appreciate so much the group of runners behind me who gave me a final push not to stop as they were screaming “last 700m!, last 500m!” and so on encouraging runners including me until the Padang finish line with the Seiko time keeper at 5:09:00. Did I just fail to meet that sub5???
04:55 Official nett finish
🔹 Aftermath. Yes. Finally the race was over with a gun time finish of 5:09 and a net finish of 4:55. Overly overwhelmed though aimed for a really better timing of 4:30, I consoled myself with my Garmin watch finish of 4:47. Whichever finish time, I am just more than glad to have recorded yet another personal best of sub 5 hours for a local full marathon. I will try a 4:30 on my next full marathon probably Sundown 2017. The sweetest reward is having my wife and daughter eagerly and patiently waiting for me at the finish. I dedicate this achievement to them.
My wife and daughter patiently waited at the finish.
*On a post note, I feel that the baggage claim is way too far from the race recovery village. I didn’t get leg cramps while running the marathon but I did get one on my way to get my bag.
JUST AS the 40th MILO Marathon season successfully concluded with the staging of the National Finals in Iloilo City, organizers were quick to the draw and immediately announced the schedule for the 41st season in 2017. Newly-minted four-time MILO Marathon Queen Mary Joy Tabal will get the chance to go for a fifth straight title right in her home roads of Cebu City as the Queen City of the South has been awarded the hosting rights.
More 21-kilometer regional qualifying races will be held with new venues added to the calendar, upping the number to 17 from 13 races. The cities of Urdaneta, Antipolo, Imus, Tacloban and Roxas will now get to host a qualifier as the Philippines’ most prestigious running event scours the countryside for the best runners.
The choice of Cebu as host comes at the right time. Aside from being the home of the reigning MILO Queen, Cebu has consistently been the attendance leader among the regional races outside of Metro Manila plus local organizers led by Ricky Ballesteros has established a good track record of conducting sporting events.
The addition of nearby Antipolo and Imus gives Metro Manila-based runners more options and chances to qualify aside from the usual Metro Manila race held at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City since 2011. The past year has been tough for marathon and fun run organizers as the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and affected city governments have become stricter in light of the worsening traffic problems hence the need to move events to non-traditional venues.
Tacloban City will also get their own MILO race as a fitting testament and tribute to their recovery from the devastation of super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in 2013. Scratched from the 2016 calendar are legs in Tagbilaran, Dumaguete, Dagupan and Batangas while Lipa, Angeles and Iloilo will host again after an absence of a season or two.
Here is the complete schedule for 2017 so start making travel arrangements and train to win:
41st MILO MARATHON (2017)
Date
Venue
Date
Venue
16-Jul
Urdaneta
17-Sep
Imus
23-Jul
Laoag
24-Sep
Tacloban
30-Jul
Metro Manila
1-Oct
Roxas
6-Aug
Angeles
8-Oct
Iloilo
13-Aug
Tarlac
29-Oct
General Santos
20-Aug
Antipolo
5-Nov
Davao
27-Aug
Naga, CamSur
12-Nov
Butuan
3-Sep
Lucena
19-Nov
Cagayan de Oro
10-Sep
Lipa
3-Dec
CEBU
Note: Schedule subject to change without prior notice.
Ask, and you will receive what you’ve ask for! X’mas came early for me! Thank you JustRunLah! for the race slots and I have another medal added to my collection 😊
Now I really am thinking thrice before registering for any races and I feel that the race fee for SCMS is really too expensive, with this amount of race fee I can sign up for at least 2 or 3 other runs! 😂
There is no train services at all this year, very troublesome for me as the distance from home to shuttle bus pick up point is more that 2km away but it’s ok, used to it already as many our runs also do not have pick up from Khatib. And I just want that extra 10 minutes of sleep and end up I sort of run there. Reaching the bus just nice at 1.58am and I’m already sweating a lot like I have already ran my race and that maybe subconsciously I already have the feeling of do not show for the run.
Thank you Rey, your art talent is very much appreciated 😆 Its good that they gave a grace time and left at 2.05am. Can’t remember which race, the shuttle bus left exactly just 1 minute after the stated pick up time. I think just like meeting with friends or even going out on a date there is a acceptable time frame to wait for the late ones although by right, don’t be late is the best thing 😊
I bought the shuttle bus ticket at $5, there’s pick up at 3am but I choose 2am because I want to deposit my bag and hang around, I actually don’t want to bring bag as it’s troublesome as I remembered the van is parked very far away at SCMS205 and last year I ran the full marathon it was quite killing to walk after that. But I want to have slipper and a fresh set of clothes to change into as it’s really comfortable that after a run you get out from your soaking wet clothes.
I ran the half marathon category and I think its the best category among all because once I’m back in the race village, I have time to explore the race village really like a boss 😎 My legs is very ok, I walked around, eat ice creams, go around taking photos with the elite runners like a fan 😆
Congratulations Dr Mok Ying Ren and Dr Ashley Liew on their podium winnings in the full marathon category! 😍
I went to Raffles City’s toilet to change into a fresh set of clothes after collecting my baggage. I don’t even dare to think about portable toilet thought there’s no queue 🙈 Great baggage deposits and collections, no queue at all though have to walk quite a distance to collect my baggage. In fact, all my friends is running the full marathon and the Ekiden category but I’m the only one doing the half marathon. As they are fast runners, its not a long wait and I think I’m pretty good at keeping myself entertained and occupied 😆
I think the half marathon is the best category this year to run in. As there is no bottle necks, not like what I’ve expected and no shoulders rubbing shoulders at all since from the very start to finish. It’s a run that I looked forward as I feel that I can achieve a personal best and I had thought it will be a very good run for me. Though due to biological issues, its really not a good run for me as its a constant pain on and off throughout the entire race and I even have the thought of did not finish since the very beginning of the run. And I even thought that it should just be a did not show but now I’m glad that I turn up and got that beautiful medal. It’s really a beautiful medal, but its quite heavy that at one point I carry it sling across my shoulder
Hydrations point is great, though mineral water is not cold, but 100plus is cold. And the 100 plus available at the race village is very generous, free flow of super cold 100 plus! But heard that those who came back late didn’t have water at many hydration points! That’s really jaw drop, its 42km for many runners, how to go far without hydration? 😨
Many of my friends who are running the full marathon feedback that it is too jammed at the last part of the run as by the time they returned, as many of the 10km runners were walking 😔 Hopefully next year the organisers can do something about it.
Race Entry Pack Collection
Collected my race pack on the first day of REPC. July accompanied me for the race pack collection and we have a lot of fun 😁 There’s no queue at all when I went in the evening at around 6pm.
July and I went to the Jaybird booth and play basketball. It’s in one minute time see how many shots you can score and the top scorer of the day will win their ear piece worth $200plus! I thought it’s easy, but it’s not 😆 But so nice lah, they still got a “thank you for your participation gift”, a draw string bag.
And thank you P_eace for the customised prints on my race singlet! 😍 Love it so much! We can choose from a few meaningful the designs template and customise our name on it. And the design that I choose is in Chinese characters, which means surpassing limits. Best thing is, it’s only a 10 minutes wait for me while I use the time to explore the race village.
My favourite part of the whole Expo is none other than the Madame Tussauds Mofarah Mannequin! 😍 Show the world some love! Recently I’ve been thinking of poses during running, so it’s not the common “peace” and “good” signs. Maybe I shall try sailormoon and ultraman pose if I spot any Photographers during my run. So Madame Tussauds have a contest to post a cutest caption to stand a chance to win a Fitbit.
Jeson Agravante and Mary Joy Tabal will aim for gold in the 29th SEA Games marathon.
ILOILO CITY – History was made at the 40th MILO Marathon National Finals last Sunday (December 4) as Mary Joy Tabal became the first athlete to win the event four years in a row. The 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympian breasted the tape at the Iloilo Convention Center in a record time of 2:47:49.
Bacolod City’s Jeson Agravante likewise made history as he used a final sprint to the finish to shock the favorites and take home his first MILO Marathon King trophy in 2:35:13. His fellow runners from Negros Occidental joined him at the podium with Maclin Sadia of Cadiz City coming in a close Second Place at 2:35:22 and 2006 MILO Marathon King Julius Sermona of Himamaylan City in Third Place at 2:37:27.
Tabal achieved her four-peat at the expense of four-time MILO Queen Cristabel Martes who checked in at a distant 3:10:11 and Third Placer Lizanne Abella at 3:14:27. The Cebuana dynamo is now tied with Martes and is one more victory away from matching the five crowns won by Arsenia Sagaray from 1992 to 1994 and 1996 and 1997.
Agravante earned his ticket to Iloilo by topping the regional qualifier held in Dumaguete City last October 2. Before that, his claim to fame was winning the Metro Manila 42.195-kilometer qualifier in 2012.
Both Agravante and Tabal will carry the country’s colors at the Scotiabank Ottawa Marathon on May 28, 2017. The said race claims to be Canada’s fastest marathon and holds a special memory for Tabal as the venue where she qualified for the Olympics earlier this year.
A trio of Kenyans dominated the Open Category led by Josphat Kiptanui Too Chobei in 2:22:13 who nosed out former MILO King James Tallam (2:22:17) and Julius Kiprotich (2:22:27). Their compatriot Elizabeth Chepkanan Rumokol won the Women’s Open in 2:41:55 ahead of Tabal and Martes.
It was Tallam’s triumph in 2011 that prompted organizers to award separate prizes for foreigners (Open) and Filipinos (Local) starting in 2012 thus rendering Tallam as the only non-Filipino MILO Marathon King. Chobei and Rumokol pocketed PHP 300,000.00 each plus trophies.
Tabal was the day’s biggest winner with PHP 250,000.00 for placing second in the Open, PHP 150,000.00 for ruling the Local category and an additional PHP 50,000.00 for breaking her own MILO Marathon record of 2:48:00 set during the start of her reign in 2013 for a grand total of PHP 450,000.00 plus the foreign trip and trophy. Aside from running again in Ottawa, she is aiming for a gold medal at the 29th Southeast Asian Games in Malaysia this August.
With another successful season in the books, fans and athletes can look forward to the 41st season of the Philippines’ most prestigious running event. The MILO Marathon will also continue its advocacy of donating athletic shoes to poor but deserving public school pupils in partnership with the Department of Education with 10,000 pairs marked for distribution this year.
Other winners: Joseph Mururi and Alexandra Dumaran (21 kilometers Open), Jero Matheus Jaro and Alexandra Dumaran (21 kilometers Local), Alden Doronilla and Thea Anne Bagaforo (10 kilometers), Axel Catalbas and Kim Villaruz (five kilometers), and Kim Patrick Corsino and Lowellie Ann Basco (three kilometers).
Long Hybrid silicone earbuds (4 sizes; SS/S/M/L with M fitted onto the headphone)
Arc supports (3 sizes; S/M/L again with M fitted onto the headset)
What is in the box
The headphone is available in 3 colours; black, red and blue. The one I am reviewing is in black.
Fit
Fitting in
Having never worn in-ear headphones before, I did not initially know how to wear them. However, they are surprisingly easy to fit into the ear and they fit snugly. Even when I shake my head left and right during runs the headphones remained firmly in place. And with its light weight of approximately 30gm, I hardly felt it during my runs. However, during my runs, I felt the cable sometimes tangling on the right of my neck and it was a little uncomfortable. But then this could be due to the cables being new so are still a little stiff.
Use
Buttons and controls
There are only 2 buttons on the headphone, which are located on the right ear piece.
1 round button to power on/off, play/pause and to accept phone calls. To power on, just press and hold the round button. A Blue LED will light up upon powering on. After which you may see a Red LED lighting up. Depending on the current headphone battery level, you will see either a quick flashing Red LED indicating battery level is critically low or 3 flashing Red LED with long pauses in between indicating battery level is still high.
Flashing Red LED indicates low battery level
Press the round button during play to pause or resume playing songs and to accept calls while in use.
The other longer one is for volume up/down adjustments and forward/backward selection of songs. A quick tap will raise/lower the volume. Upon reaching the maximum volume, there will be a soft beep notification that maximum volume had been selected.
To fast-forward to the next track or return to the previous track, hold the button until you hear a beep, and the song selection will change.
The headphone is stated as IPX4 splash-proof. So using it while in the rain or rinsing it under running water after use offers no problem at all. Just remember to keep the Micro-USB port cover close before doing these.
Keep the Micro-usb port cover close before use or washing
Pairing with Handphone
Connecting the headphone to my handphone was easy. I just need to turn on my handphone’s Bluetooth connection, select the headphone, and connection is established within a second.
Sound Quality
I must say I am not an expert in this but the songs I played sound pretty good and clear. The noise isolation feature works pretty well too as I can hardly hear any outside noise. With this in mind, I would suggest taking this for runs at PCN running tracks or areas with less traffic where situational awareness is not so crucial.
Call Quality
Call quality was pretty okay with my friend at the other end hearing me pretty clearly and I hearing him well too.
Battery Life
This has to be one of the most important features for any wireless headphones. Based on Sony’s specification, the headphone can last for a maximum of 8.5hrs of playing time on a full charge. However, during my trial, on maximum volume, I found out the headphone actually kept on playing for almost 9.5hrs before it went flat. I must say this is pretty impressive considering 9.5hrs is more than sufficient to last a runner even for the 8hrs cut-off time afforded by the 2 local full marathon organizers. Of course you will also need to factor in the battery life of your handphone for this duration too. No point having a long lasting headphone but a short battery life handphone.
Apparently, iPhone users are able to see the battery life of the headphone using their phone. But as I am not an iPhone user, I was not able to test out this feature.
Charging the headphone from flat requires about 2.5hrs using my laptop’s 1A USB port. Charging using the newer 3.0 USB port should reduce the charging time.
Overall
The Sony MDR-XB50BS is priced at $119. I must say at this price point, it is really value for money. I had scouted out some other wireless headphones before but they are usually either priced higher or have shorter battery life. It is simple to use, easy to connect to my handphone, what with the pretty good sound and call quality thrown in, this pair of sports headphone is definitely worth a try without burning a hole in your pocket.
Thank you Sony Singapore for the review unit.
Though the review unit was provided by Sony Singapore, my review is based on my own unbiased opinion after trying it out.
The Sony MDR-XB50BS is available at all Sony authorized retail shops with a recommended retail price of $119.
From now till 2 January 2017, you can enjoy 10% off Sony’s NW-WS413 and discounts on other Sony products. Head over to www.sony.com.sg/sonydays or visit any Sony store or authorised dealers for more information on the Sony Days exclusive year-end promo.
Disclaimer: A free unit was provided to the blogger for review.
I really wasn’t interested in registering my daughter, Trinity for this year’s Junior Spartan Obstacle Race. Certainly not at $55 given that last year when she did participate we only paid $30 for the event. I couldn’t figure why nearly double the price and in a location that was a fair way from home.
However, when I looked into her pleading eyes and her friends hopeful face it was hard to stick to my guns. With some extra research it didn’t take long to realise this is a great opportunity for the two girls to participate in an event that allowed mixed ages. Here is the thing. Trinity is 8yo and her friend, Michelle is 13. Besides the standard age related categories, this race had a mixed ages category for 8-13yo, which meant that this year would be the only time the girls could participate together in this race. Next year Michelle would be considered a youth and she’d have to join the main Spartan event. So hubby and I swallowed the $55 and just paid up.
The race was held at the Yio Chu Kang Stadium and when we arrived to the event site and saw the setup and obstacles we understood why we were paying nearly double the price. Last year’s event couldn’t even compare to the standard of obstacles provided at this year’s event. Higher, harder, longer distance (2km instead of 1km), bigger challenges are just some of the words that come to mind. Looking at the obstacles we knew the girls would have to work extra hard and hope they have the stamina to last the distance.
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It would be difficult to describe the 13 obstacles they had to conquer but some of the highlights were the A-frame climb over, the cargo net climb, carrying pails of water, caterpillar crawl, pull a tyre by the chains, balance beams, rope climb ending with a bell ring, sack races and flip a tyre whilst running in between the obstacles. For any incomplete obstacle the racer had to do 20 burpees, which quite a few kids had to do on what I thought was the most difficult obstacle, being the climbing up a rope about 4m to ring the bell as a sign of completing the obstacle. Thankfully Trini has been doing gymnastics for 2 years where rope climbing was part of the curriculum and she was well trained for it.
As the race progressed, you could see the fatigue overtaking both girls. Each obstacle needed a pull, push, climb, run, crawl using every possible muscle in their young bodies. Their stamina and cardio was challenged and by the time they reached the end they were well and truly finished physically. Nothing that a block of chocolate couldn’t fix.
As a parent looking on, I think this kids obstacle race was spot on. It was well organised with challenging obstacles, contained in a good quality stadium. As parents we had just as much fun watching as they did participating.
The inaugural Race Against Hunger is organised by Yum! Asia Franchise in support of the United Nations World Food Programme. I was glad to be supporting this race as all registration fees were to be dedicated to this programme 🙂 As with my other reviews, do look out for the font in italics as I highlight aspects of a race that I feel are important.
Race Category This race offered a variety of categories, both non-competitive and competitive and both for the young in chronological age and the young (or not so young) at heart. I opted for the 10km Competitive category. It was priced at a relatively affordable price of $38 (and importantly, the registration fees are channelled towards a worthy cause!), considering that nowadays registration fees for a 10km run easily extend into the 50s or 60s.
Pre-Race Matters Race entry pack collection was held on a single day on 12 November from 11am to 7pm at City Square Mall. Within the race tote bag were a couple of vouchers, the race tee, the race bib and timing device.
The Race Precinct
Gloomy skies! In for a downpour?
I arrived a little earlier than my 7am flag off time as I was collecting my race pack on the day itself. It was a gloomy morning with a threatening weather forecast for the morning ahead. After collecting my race pack and using the baggage deposit, I grabbed some hydration (there were also fruits available), used a portable restroom (no queues!) and headed to the start pen.
Friendly volunteers at the baggage deposit booth.
The Race
A very energetic warm-up routine was conducted before flag-off punctually at 7.00am. The race route wasn’t too different from any race organised near Gardens by the Bay. Runners would run past Marina Bay Sands and the Promontory before heading back, past Marina Barrage and towards Gardens by the Bay East, finally returning thereafter. The notable challenges of this predominantly flat route are the two ascents of Marina Barrage. In addition, due to the numerous construction works going on around the area, there were multiple twists and turns along the route.
The 10km race route. Credit to Race Against Hunger’s Race Guide.
Hydration points were available at 4 points along the route, serving chilled water and isotonic drinks. Distance markers were pretty accurately labelled (though they came a little too early at some occasions). The weather was pleasant as runners enjoyed a mild drizzle and a gentle breeze.
For all ages.
Post-Race
After completing my race, I claimed my Finisher’s Medal and grabbed some drinks. There were packets of Milo available, along with fruits and hydration in cups. Interestingly, despite some fast food chains being organisers of this event, fast food wasn’t anywhere in sight. Not complaining though, these healthier options were appletising as well 😀
Credit to Pink Apple (how coincidental) Events.
Hope this brief review was adequately informative! Feel free to check out my personal experience of this event here 🙂
It’s getting increasingly difficult to keep up with my writing but I would be remiss not to record my first ever half marathon experience. So this comes a good three weeks after the event but in years to come I’ll be relieved I had captured the experience to some degree.
I took up running August 2014 and had a rollercoaster affair with the sport since, particularly throughout 2015 when I tore a ligament that took me out of some major events I was registered for and spent about 9 months recuperating from.
This is my third GEWR. Having my first 10km debut in 2014, then ran 5km post injury in 2015 (I wasn’t going to miss the 10th year anniversary event) and this year I’ve made a debut in the half marathon category. Certainly GEWR races will have a special spot in my heart.
It was a daring decision I made way back in August this year following a group organised mystery run I participated in and ran 22km. At the time I was only trained up to 10km and only in the early stages of my HM training program. It took forever to get to the end but I just focused on the big breakfast and cold beer. Whilst eternally slow with the end result, I was satisfied with my effort and figured I could try an official race to enter in the HM category.
Since I ran my first 10km at GEWR in 2014, it just seemed fitting to do the same with the HM. After the mystery run I went home and committed myself to it. It certainly helped with my training program now that I had an objective in mind.
Come race day and I was up at 4.15am to get ready and get to the event site. Thankfully I was only 15min away from the race location given that 4am is such an unappealing time of the day. It didn’t help that I couldn’t sleep the night before due to jitters so I was running on about 3.5 hours of rest. However, I was in good spirits and it seemed so were all the other HM ladies present.
Whilst I’d like to think that 5.30am is a sensible time to start a race, it’s difficult to consider that time of the morning as sensible but just the same we flagged-off right on time. Several thousand ladies in red tees took off to complete what is a momentous distance.
With a nice and easy attitude, I settled into my pace and started working at knocking off one kilometer at a time. The first 10km was going as expected since up to the GEWR race I had already participated in about seven 10km races, not to mention all the training sessions along the way. However, as I reached the 11th km I hit a brick wall mentally, perhaps for a couple of reasons. One, I was running towards the East Coast which is the opposite direction to where the finish line was. Really messes with your mind. Secondly, my legs were getting fatigued and stiff. I was running on 3.5 hours sleep and one banana on a section of the route that wasn’t particularly stimulating.
HM Category @ 5am
Reasonably fresh looking given the lack of sleep
Team Costa Ladies and my cheer squad
Mother and daughter band together
Proudly sporting my finisher tee and swanky medal
Finisher – u betcha
I know every corner of this route like the back of my hand
Took this gold beauty home
Luckily at the 12th km the hydration station was well stocked with cold water, electrolyte drink and bananas. I took the opportunity to eat, hydrate, rest and stretch. By the 15th km I was walking and I was breaking the race down by the location of the water stations. I used each water station as the milestone to run to, hydrate and then walk about 250m before I would start running again to the next station. Breaking down the race in small chunks made it easier to cope with. Instead of focusing on distance left, I would just focus on the next 1.5km to the next water station.
Things were well and truly looking up when it dawned on me that I reached the 18th and then the 19th and on the home stretch. There’s this realisation that no matter how slow or how painful it all is, the end is so near that if I had to slither my way to the finish line there was nothing that could stop me from reaching the end. As you can imagine this kind of positive thinking had a wonderful effect on me physically, spiritually and mentally. And when I saw the 20km marker, all I thought was “I got this”.
Aching, stiff but in excellent spirit I pushed that last kilometer and was met by my wonderful friends, who’d completed their 10km category, cheering as loud as possible. Needless to say I was grinning ear to ear and crossed that finish line.
This was a marvellous experience for my first HM and it’s a sign of changes for future races. Having a racing time baseline, I can now work on improving it and getting better at the next HM in March when I participate with my husband in the OSIM Sundown Marathon race.
JUST AS the 40th MILO Marathon season successfully concluded with the staging of the National Finals in Iloilo City, organizers were quick to the draw and immediately announced the schedule for the 41st season in 2017. Newly-minted four-time MILO Marathon Queen Mary Joy Tabal will get the chance to go for a fifth straight title right in her home roads of Cebu City as the Queen City of the South has been awarded the hosting rights.
