the runvocate

GRANDMOTHER.. ULTRA TRAIL RUNNER

2011-07-06T15:59:00.000-07:00

Maybe someday, when someone asks my grandchild Enzo, “where’s your lola?” he will proudly say “nasa bundok po, tumatakbo po ng 100K trail run!!!”

ELMA AMBAL – GABRIANA

ultra road and trail marathoner, loving wife, mother of four grownups and recently a grandmother. A devoted runner who strongly believes that proper training, perseverance and courage are virtues that spell success in every competition. She dreams of participating in Ironman Triathlon before becoming a “golden girl”.

I think I already mentioned several times how I love trail runs as much as I love road runs but since trails are rarely offered I take advantage of them. Even if trail has become a trend recently, many runners still dread the thought of running on dirt roads, stepping on rocks, of traversing, terrains, muds, etc. So, I thought of featuring a story of another ultra trail runner to invite more to try it and have fun.

More than encouraging people to try trail runs, I also hope to share the inspiration that my friend, Ate Elma has been giving me.

In my almost two years in the running community, I've encountered many inspiring people and heard of touching stories and this one is definitely one those that stand out.

When people tell me they admire me because of my pace, etc., although I appreciate them a lot and feel humbled, I also tell them that there are lot of factors why I'm able to run that way- I'm relatively young, I haven't given birth therefore has not gained much weight, although I'm busy at work, I don't have as much responsibility as keeping a house so it's easier for me to find time to train. This is just to point out that those who don't have these but still run, regardless of their pace, are more admirable than me.

This is why I really look up to Ate Elma. She may not be as young as me or other runners out there but I bet she's stronger than many of us. Finishing a 100K trail run was not a joke. I think it's one of the toughest challenges any runner could face. Proof of it was the number of those who did not finish the TNF 100 race - young men and women. But she's not just your usual senior runner, she's an ultra runner with a pace that will tire younger ones.

Her determination and commitment inspire me a lot. More than that, I admire her for how she takes care of her husband and her entire family and also of her friends. She's a beautiful soul. I have been gifted with the chance of knowing her and I'd like to share this gift with you.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN RUNNING?

My passion for running or if I may say, addiction, started three years ago in 2008 Adidas King of the Road together with my Fitness First (Fort) gym buddies. I ran 10k without thinking and proper training considering that it was my first run. As a result, I tasted my first ever sore quads, leg pains and even blisters as I was not wearing the proper shoes for running. Never even thought “running shoes” existed!

With her loving husband, Kuya Ronnie (Adidas KOTR, 101108)

With her Fitness First friends, minus me ;) (Condura Marathon, 020611)

WHAT GOT YOU INTO RUNNING?

I just got into it and found running beneficial physically, mentally as well as socially. Three years ago, my husband, Ronnie and I were desperately trying to find ways to lose weight and tried gym fitness exercises and of course, running. It worked, we lost weight and in the process gained more friends. What else could we ask for?

With hubby, Kuya Ronnie who's been with her on the road, the trail, anytime, anywhere ;) (Pinatubo Express, 080110)

LONGEST DISTANCE?

100k in recently concluded TNF 100 held at Camsur last April 29.

HOW MANY ROAD RUNS? TRAIL RUNS?

(Runvocate: Brace yourself guys!)

41 road runs (2 ultras, 6 full marathon, 7 half M, 26 fun runs)

9 trail runs (4 ultras, 2 half marathon, 3 fun runs)

Tired but never quitting! (1st Cebu Ultramarathon, 112710)

Yebah! Didn't seem like she just finished an ultra marathon (PAU Pagudpod Ultramarathon, 082910)

HOW MUCH DO YOU LOVE TRAILS?

60/40- trail over road. I find trail runs extremely challenging. It improves balance and strength since they usually take place on dirt roads, streams and mountains of varying terrain. I enjoy the rappelling on vertical surface or cliff, crossing rivers by stepping over rocks, running on steep hills or even on the edge of ravine when your heart beats faster than your feet.

Enjoying the mud like a child with her friend, Chinky Tan ;)

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST TRAIL RUN AND HOW DID IT GO?

2009 TNF Sacobia. It was my first taste of trail. We registered for the 22k category. Since it was held at Sacobia in Clark Pampanga, we were informed that we'd run mostly on lahar areas. Technically our shoes were submerged into water, sand and dirt. The race was almost cancelled because of the bad weather a day before the race destroying base camp and halting 100k runners for safety reasons. But we were able to finish the race triumphantly and unknowingly. Since then I always looked forward for any upcoming trail races rather than the usual road.

Getting wet? Mud? Blisters? Bring it on!

(TNF Sacobia trail run, 052409). The heat was on.. so what?!

WHY DID YOU JOIN TNF 100? VTC?

TNF 100 Camsur was actually not in our race list. We were supposed to return to Cebu for the 2^nd 65k Coast to Coast ultra marathon. But just a few days before the last day of TNF registration, I though, "how about 100 this time?" From TNF 50k in Baguio last year to TNF 100? Is it be possible? Can my body endure the grueling 30hrs cut off time, non-stop running and walking on various mountain terrains despite my now you see, now you don’t injuries? Immediately, I relayed the idea to my [co-addictus] trail running friend, Chinky Tan, and she (without any second thought) agreed with me. She even managed to encourage six other running friends to join us. The result was ultra history.

With her friends at Mt. Maculot. Training for TNF Camsur

VTC - I guess, same generic reason, love of trail runs! Plus it was organized by our friend, Jonel Mendoza who is also known for his extra miles/kms generosity. Also the VTC challenging routes and it’s an ultra.

Valley Trail Challenge.. when many decided to stop, she went on.. smiling! ;)

WHAT DID YOU LIKE MOST IN TNF 100? VTC?

TNF 100 - The challenging race route, the rappelling portion, the majestic Mt. Isarog Falls that surprised us after the treacherous steep and muddy declines and the race itself being well organized by RD Neville Manaois, CD Levi, TNF marshals, security and medical staff. The pre and post events shared together with our friends will be treasured forever.

Looking strong and happy with Chinky at the Mt. Isarog falls. TNF 100 Camsur

VTC – the 7K bonus, the scenery (couldn't believe, it’s just a few Ks away from Manila) and how it was organized. Perfect!

WHAT WAS THE HARDEST PART?

TNF 100 - The last 5k where the finish line was just around the corner where I thought that I was already at the 98km marker but found out that it was a big mistake! I was so excited when I finally entered the CWC grounds with ample remaining time but my excitement turned to nightmare when a race marshal instructed me to turn down right. I said, "Whaaaaat?!?! Are you kidding?" At that time, I wanted to scream and yell at him but what’s the use? I was already so sleepy, hungry and so dammed tired. My whole body was aching, as if these were not enough, we had to traverse the CWC Park, soaked my pressed and blistered foot on streams, climbed on muddy trail desperately looking for any on-sight stick just to be able to balance and keep me standing, I was so grateful to my running friend, Chinky who was with me the entire race. We crossed the finish line together.

I still get goosebumps everytime I see this photo. Celebrating her victory with Chinky. They did it and they said, they're doing it again. Salute!

VTC? – Right after 20k of the 1^st loop where I felt my knees locked and the pain was so intense that running seemed impossible. Upon reaching back at the base camp, I was tempted to quit but I persevered and found myself walking as fast as I could in the entire 2^nd loop. Surprisingly, I finished the race within the cut off time despite the pains.

TIPS FOR THOSE WHO’D LIKE TO DO TRAIL RUN. FINAL WORDS.

Priceless! That smile and glow in her eyes tell you how happy she was. Still standing strong and ready to sign up for another 100K

Every trail run is one of a kind. Anything is possible as long as you train hard. And when you’re in a trail, marvel at God’s creation, appreciate the majestic sceneries, be strong and confident, and always think positive. Statistics states that only 1 in 1000 can finish a marathon, I definitely believe that the odds are much much higher in running an ultra trail marathon.

The ultra trail runner is also an ultra loving grandmother

Maybe someday, when someone asks my grandchild Enzo, “where’s your lola?” he will proudly say “nasa bundok po, tumatakbo po ng 100km trail run!!!” If you didn’t know me personally, would you believe him?……….. Awesome, isn’t it?

EXTRA CHALLENGE at the Valley Trail Challenge

2011-06-24T23:10:00.000-07:00

After finishing 50K in the TNF 100 Camsur last month, I’ve always looked forward to running in another trail. I thought roads are always there anyway so I should take advantage of trail runs which are rarely being offered.

Before I continue, let me first congratulate Mr. Jonel Mendoza, the Frontrunner and rest of their team for such a successful race. Thank you for your hard work and effort to provide runners with a new and exciting route; and sufficient hydration and Nature Valley energy bars. It also felt like a gathering of friends sharing the same passion for adventure.

VTC lived up to its title. It was challenging indeed. In fact it was one of my difficult races not only because of the long distance but also because of the extreme heat, the rolling hills, the trail that’s more challenging to my knees and the tendency of getting dehydrated. But more than these, there were other challenges I had to overcome to finish it.

CHALLENGE 1: INJURY

When I heard about the Valley Trail Challenge, I got excited and thought I should join despite recurring pain on my right knee which I tried to disregard but was too painful I could not simply brush aside. It weighed on me in all my runs and got me frustrated especially during races. I felt like dragging it all the time even when walking. After doing half marathons every week before the VTC as part of my training, I decided to take a rest the week before. I drastically reduced my mileage and did cross training instead. I mustered all courage to resist the temptation to run to give my knee a break and a chance to recover. While I think that I deserved some pat on the back for not being too hard headed, I also recognized the mistake of refusing to see a specialist to have it checked which I should do soon. Anyway, I think that rest helped me finish the VTC.

CHALLENGE 2: LACK OF REST AND SLEEP

Although the knee had the chance to rest from running, I had not. That week was one my busiest weeks at work. I had to do back to back travels with just a few hours of sleep to meet deadlines and handle events. The day before the race, I even came from Mindanao and only had three hours of sleep which made me more worried about how I’d perform in the race.

CHALLENGE 3: ANXIETY

As usual, as in other races, anxiety overwhelmed me before the start. On our way to Nuvali, I kept on sighing because of being too nervous.

When we got in the race area, I met a few friends and chatted with them to try to release the tension. I was so anxious my hands were feeling cold.

With friends before the race (L-R) Jesus Roque, Chinky Tan, Elma Gabriana, Shiela Compendio, Ronnie Gabriana, David Buban, Jose Leorenzo Mina

CHALLENGE 4: GETTING LOST

When the gun was fired, I ran with the pack and along some friends. We took the first kilometer slow and easy but after warming up I felt the adrenalin rush to run faster so I did.

I was having the time of life, enjoying the ability to run that fast again after being stalled for almost a month because of injury until I heard someone shouting from behind saying that we were heading towards the wrong route. I had to run back and did it a bit faster since I was told that we lost 1.6K already. I thought I should compensate by sprinting. While I was so engrossed in recovering my lost mileage, I was also starting to get worried I might burn out too early in the race so I slowed down.

At that time, I didn’t have any idea about my rank. That was the last thing on my mind. I thought a bunch of female runners were already ahead but after the first water station, I was informed that I was running second.

It was good news but also an added pressure. I thought I should maintain it which meant I could not go as easy as planned.

To be able to run faster, I left my assault pack with a friend who was at the last kilometer before the base camp so I'd be load free and since I was starting to get blisters on my shoulders. I took the risk of not taking it and just brought along with me a 500ml bottle of water.

Since the third placer was just too close I tried to run fast to have enough lead and rest in the next kilometers. While most runners stopped, took some rest, changed shirts and shoes at the base camp, I did not. I was so in a hurry, I just grabbed a bottle of Pocari, refilled my water bottle, got a bar of trail mix and headed off.

Tired even before the first half

CHALLENGE 5: GETTING LOST. AGAIN!

Maybe because of too much rushing, although the second half was just the same route as the first, I still got lost. One of my weaknesses is not having a sense of direction so when I got confused about where to go and was pointed by a marshal to go straight instead of going right, I did. I was with two other runners finding our way in that area where no signs and no other runners were.

I got very frustrated, at the verge of crying and almost gave up. I hated my self, all I wanted to do was just go back and stop. So arrogant of me!

I think I spent almost ten minutes roaming around. Since I got lost again, I tried to compensate by sprinting, this time with my legs already tired and weak. I knew I’d feel terribly bad if I didn’t make it just because of getting lost so I pushed myself so hard.

When I finally ran past the then second placer and had a few meters lead, I was happy I could finally do what I'd been wanting to do which was to run at a relax pace or even walk. But when I reached the water station, the marshal informed me that I was the 3^rd placer and the 2^nd one just left. Like a rabid dog, I wonder what got into me but what I did was run fast and looked for the 2^nd placer. Again, after getting ahead of her and having some lead, I started walking since my legs were so exhausted especially with the heat.

Last K before the finish line. See that pressure and exhaustion on my face?

CHALLENGE 6: KEEPING THE LEAD

While walking, a woman ran ahead of me but I was then willing to let go of being a second placer since I was already drained to catch up and was beginning to experience cramps. But at the water station, I saw her resting so I took advantage to go ahead. I ran and ran and ran to keep my lead and then jogged and walked after a couple of kilometers.

When I thought I could already rest, someone from behind called my name and asked if I was trying to keep a place since the woman next to me, he said, was just meters away. So even if I was already wasted, I ran at my race pace again until I crossed the finish line.

With the organizer, Mr. Jonel Mendoza who handed the medal for being the 1st runner up among the female finishers

CHALLENGE 7: WAS IT RIGHT?

I placed second, took that huge medal and gift packs home but wasn’t completely happy as everyone thought I should. I felt disturbed with the way I behaved in the race, with how competitive I’ve become and how arrogant I’ve been. Was it right that I missed the beauty of the trail because I was so engrossed with winning?

I wasn’t sure if it was right that I tried to outrun those women and felt good after. I wasn’t sure if it was right that I took that much pressure just to have a podium finish. I wasn’t sure if the level of my being competitive was still right or if I’ve crossed the line of arrogance.

I was happy that I took the discipline to rest for my injury; that I was able to strike a balance between work and trying to get some rest for the race; that I didn’t give up despite getting lost, the heat, the exhaustion, the cramps and all; but I was faced with the greater challenge which was to reflect about what kind of person I’ve become. The more important challenge that bothers me until now.

LOVE CONQUERS ALL (An ultra trail runner who didn't like trails)

2011-05-21T06:28:00.000-07:00

"I am not an elite, nor a pro, nor an above average runner. I am not even competitive in the running community. I only compete with myself. In the flesh, I am not a head turner. I am simply a middle aged married woman who wants to age gracefully and truly enjoy life through running."

- Shiela Compendio, Ultra road and trail runner

More than a hundred runners and mountaineers joined the recently concluded TNF 100 Camsur on April 30- May 1, 2011. I assume most of us were there because of two things; either we love to run or we love to climb.

TNF 50K runners heading off the race after the gun start

But someone I know was there not so much for those two common reasons but because she loves her friends. Yes, she likes to run but not much the trail but she ranked 10^thamong the female finishers. And yes, her reason wasn’t like the rest because she is really extra ordinary.

Relak. Relak. With her friends during the orientation, day before the race

With one of her best friends, Chinky Tan who finished the 100K run

I had the privilege of running with Ms. Shiela Compendio the entire 50K since we, together with four other friends, decided to go through the entire race together.

We're enjoying the trail. At one point, our friends went ahead of us. We're left together in a trail w/o anyone around us and then it rained. Yaygs! No she's not going to hit me with the stick, she's just showing it ;)

If I were to rank who among us didn’t like the trail most, Shiela would be on top of my list. Maybe all of us had our own reservations about trail runs but since Shiela was the most open and vocal about it, I'd also consider her with the most courage and commitment to finish the race. It was so inspiring, I thought others should also know her story.

Serious look. With her friends who ran with her to the finish line

While I admired everyone who finished the race, I had a different kind of admiration for those who were able to do it even if they could have chosen not to. The race itself offered various challenges to overcome but it must have been more difficult trying to finish with another one within you. But Shiela successfully conquered every difficulty there was.

She not only set her foot on deciding to do it, she also took the discipline to train and worked hard for it.

To those who are having second thoughts about joining trail runs, I hope that this post would encourage you to try it. While road runs give us a certain high, trail runs give another level of satisfaction that’s worth all the courage all fears.

Here is my very inspiring ‘interview’ with a good friend, Shiela.

How long have you been running?

Three years. Not sure though if you can count my very first in July 2007 where my weight management consultant convinced me to try joining Fitness First 7km fun run for health purposes. It was then followed in August 2008 when a friend asked if my husband and I were interested in joining Mens Health 10km relay for a cause. We agreed. From there on we yearned for more, and the rest is, ultra, history.

Longest distance?

70km ultramarathon at Pagudpod, Ilokos Norte in August 2010

How many road runs ? trail runs?

Road runs : 52 road runs. Trail runs : 3

How much do you love trails? Why?

Can I just re-phrase the before TNF Camsur question to “how much do I not-so-like trails”, or “why do I not-so-like trails”

I am dainty, clingy, and an ultra worry wrat. If you leave me alone in the middle of a mountain or forest, I will surely die helplessly and pathetically.

What was your first trail run and how did it go?

21km TNF at Sacobia, Clark in 2009.

The dreadful river crossing was the highlight of that trail. My somewhat OC-ness whispered the need to avoid drippin my feet by checking on protuded rocks to step on. I was hopeful that I will finish the race unsoiled, like I always do in all my road races. Expectedly, I was wrong. With my eyes closed, eventually succumed to drenching my shoes and just forced myself to savor this once-in-a-lifetime crossing of the river.

My edginess never stopped in the river crossing as we were surprised by a narrow uphill course with a rope. Still stunned, and ignoring the inflow of runners waiting for me to assault, some of which I allowed to overtake me, told my husband, Jonas, that I’d rather DNF than go up there. Jonas irritatingly insisted otherwise explaining the need to pass through the river should I decide to DNF. Hearing the river thingy, took a deep breath, got my hanky and crawled.

With a muddy shoes, dead toenail, an increased heart rate, and an acceptable finish time, as Jonas forced me to run in the middle of a slightly call-it-a-desert-place, my first trail run went well.

Why did you join this year’s TNF 100 Camsur?

I am an only child so I try to give as much love and care to my friends as possible the way siblings should be with each other. Now I have 2 reasons:

- For the love of supporting my friends, whom I can’t afford to miss the chance of seeing at the finishline.

- For the love of being with my friends wherever they go for as long as I can and as long as I want.

To busy ourselves during the race, the initial plan was for us to run 22km, but when one of our friends said in jest, why not 50km? everyone agreed.

Looking excited with her friends and a running buddy, her sunblock, before gun start

What did you like most in the race?

Three things:

Savoring the magnificence of Gods creation. Amidst of extreme challenges and endless surprises of TNF Camsur, I enjoyed the stillness of the Bamboo farm, the riveting falls and the bewitching part of Mount Isarog. I kept on thanking God for this chance to see his creation.

Safety and security of race participants is first at TNF 100. The visibility of warm and accommodating marshalls and the presence of both the Camsur Police and Military people gave me assurance that no matter what happens I know I will go home safe and sound.

Route markers were visible almost everywhere. If you brought your awareness, not only strenght, with you in TNF Camsur, it is impossible to really get lost.

There she goes! Running strong! Yeba!

What did you hate most?/What was the hardest part?

I cannot say the hatest but the hardest part. Prior to reaching 7km mark while I was still enjoying our warm up, we were already greeted by a pretty muddy downhill trail. Technically, had to traverse sideways forward-facing in an awfully think lane about 10 meters, slowly grasping to any stable rock or stem, to safely go down. It was one of the many grueling fraction in the race that increases my heart rate, that one miscalculation would mean, falling and hitting sharp hardened thingy. Good thing I made it without tumbling and falling.

Having second thoughts about making any step but she did it ;)

How did you train for it?

-We climbed Mt. Maculot/Rockies in Batangas, 2 weeks prior to the event. It was my first real taste of mounting climbing where I literally cried of fear when I first saw a steep row of rocks.

-Outdoor uphill dowhill running at least 2x a week

-Indoor, I did the following: Treadmill with the max gradient of 8 - 2x a week. Yoga - once or 2x a week. Cross training : spinning and lifting weights 2x a week.

She rocks! Overcoming Mt. Maculot.

What would you like to say to other runners who consider joining trail runs? Any tips?

- Get a running buddy, especially if you plan to do ultra trail run. Nothing is more comforting than running long distance with people you like.

- Prepare to get dirty. Sometimes, it’s fun to see mud in your hands or even in your face. That means you are a trail runner, yey!!

- Ready to stumble and fall.

- Take it slow (only for the non-competitive trail runners), as you will surely reach the finish line.

- Strategize, not to fall, even if stumbling and falling is part of the game. Believe me, I didn’t.

- Enjoy and savor every minute of the trail run. Not everyone has the chance to experience connecting with nature.

Priceless! Big smile at the finish line

Describe your experience in one word? Why?

AWESOME

Doing 50km of TNF was awesomely challenging, awesomely worth it: the travel, the race fee, the exhaustion. And awesomely cool.

Now, shall I join future TNF races? YES!!!

That's courage personified!

Looking forward to the next TNF 100 run not only with Shiela but with you, guys as well.

Running for a cost (?)

2011-04-16T00:05:00.000-07:00

Let me borrow the phrase I used as a title for this post from an ultra runner, Mr. Jonel Mendoza which he posted on his Facebook account wall on 12 April 2011. It struck me because recently I’ve been hearing comments and complaints not only about the oil price hike but also about the cost of race fees. I’ve to confess I have not read any write up on the issue although I was informed that a post or two were already out. For someone like me who’s in an active advocacy work for the poor and for good governance, it’s been tempting to reflect on the issue and take a position. Frankly, I have been trying to avoid this topic, my way of running away from the tendency to have an opinion on something that’s maybe very controversial and I may not be that aware of like organizing an event. But I obviously failed.

What dragged me to this very persistent issue? I ran one morning while I was in Tacloban City. A young man approached me and asked if I’m a runner. I said yes. He said he also wants to run but does not have the money to do so. I said, he does not need so much money, just enough for a good, proper running shoes. He said buying shoes is not his problem but joining races. He’s studying in Manila and been wanting to join races but could not because of lack of money. I felt sad and that got me thinking.

While running, I reflected on the issue and I’m sharing some of my thoughts now. I am not saying I am right and my assumptions are accurate nor am I trying to blame anyone or pretend that I know so much about this topic. This is just thinking aloud as a frequent participant in different races, for whatever it’s worth. You’re very free to refute any of my statement or junk this post altogether. At the very least, what I hope to offer is an alternative thought or idea that runners and organizers might consider – taking or throwing away ;)

Rundown:

Thought 1

How much does it really cost to organize a race? I think that it depends on what kind and how big a race would be. For me, a non- negotiable component of a race would be hydration- water and maybe sports drinks. So if an organizer opens his event to a thousand or more runners then logically, he has to avail of more hydration which could either be sourced from the registration fee or sponsorship.

Next in the priority list would be marshalls who need to be paid as well. Again it depends on the distance and how big the race is. You’ll need more marshalls for more runners and longer distances which will require more budget for their honorarium and food.

Then a start, finish line and kilometer marks which don’t need to be fancy and then a sound system.

In my view, other race materials are bonuses that we can do without like singlet, finisher’s shirt, medals, energy bars or gels, fancy race map, d-tags, etc. if what we really want is just to run with the rest of the running community.

And of course we also have to accept the fact that organizing a race (maybe not all?) is a business which means a certain portion of the race fee would be for profit.

Thought 2

The purpose of the race matters. If a race is intended to race funds for a cause, then it’s understandable that the cost would be higher than expected. What’s important here is disclosure. This is what I like about Condura Marathons. After the race, they would inform the public about how much of the race proceeds went to the foundation they said would benefit. If my memory serves me right, I think they also did announce the percentage from the race fee that would be handed to the beneficiary.

Thought 3

The principle of supply and demand. While some runners were inclined to blame organizers for expensive race fees, I think that it’s more of a supply and demand case.

Runners these days as evident in informal conversations and in posts of some bloggers seem to be expecting more from the organizers. Some comments not only refer to hydration but also to hi-tech race route presentation, blasting gunstart, fancy singlet and finisher’s shirt, etc. While this may have been due to organizers raising the expectation of the runners, pampering us and getting us used to more frills, this is also partly because the consumers raised the bar for satisfaction that naturally resulted in organizers trying to meet or surpass these standards, international included. Not to mention competition among organizers.

This has lead to glamorous races that entailed more cost, therefore, higher fees.

So, what now?

Given all these, assuming I was right, how should we then deal with it?

I think that maybe we should first answer the more basic question which is -should we really reduce race fees and whether we can really do something about it?

Again, let me think aloud.

I guess that the most important question here is whether we feel we’re shortchanged when we register. Do we get the feeling that we’re paying too much for something that’s not worth it? Because if that’s what’s happening, then we are really in a serious problem that’s almost tantamount to issues of transparency in government. But unlike government that is accountable to the people under a set of legal frameworks, organizers are not, except maybe the Consumer’s Act. But this is taking this issue too far. Maybe what we can do is, if we feel that the cost of a race is too much than what it offers or what it is for, we can simply not join, a boycott of sort.

If we feel that we’re paying just enough but are still bothered by the huge amount we shell out, I guess what can be done is to let the organizers know that we can be content with a race simple and organized enough to sustain us until we cross the finish line so that the organizers will not be pressured to produce something that cost a lot.

Races are a good way to celebrate “private” running. It allows us to expand our own worlds and meet new runners. It encourages us to continue loving the sport realizing that a thousand others are as passionate as us and for some, they challenge us to be better so we could engage in a competition not only with ourselves but with others. It’s sad that many are no longer able to join because of the increasing race fees.

Whether we can do anything about it given the rising prices of other stuff needed in a race and the sophisticated demand or expectation of runners, the fact remains that this is something that merits serious attention if we want races to be more inclusive and to stop those whining that’s going around the community.

Just thinking aloud ;)

TBR DM2 fr a pacer's point of view

2011-03-23T15:47:00.000-07:00

I’ve always been vocal in saying that TBR Dream Marathon will always take the No.1 spot in my list of best runs. It will not be overtaken by any PR or a New York or Boston Marathon experience (as if!). For those who had the chance to read my post after last year’s DM would have an idea why. It’s because of the camaraderie and the sense of family. More than the run, the course or the excellent logistical support, it was that spirit of journeying along each other that really struck me. Until now, I consider it a great privilege and joy that I had the chance to run with other 199 dreamers who, despite the pain, the fear and the struggle, pushed themselves to their limits to change status from a runner to a marathoner.

With TBR DM batchmates, Kuya Lito Lopez and Kuya Brian Ng who I first met at Km 21 and ran with until the finish and became my friends since

That same feeling overwhelmed me last Sunday when I volunteered as a pacer and chaser in the TBR DM2. This is another dream that came true. The moment I crossed the finish line last year, I told myself I’d volunteer to help the next batch because I felt the value of support and encouragement in a race.

42K is 42K. It’s grueling. It’s painful. It’s challenging which makes any kind of support a lifeline. That simple bottle or glass of water; that piece of fruit or Chippy; that simple smile and cheer; that quote in a kilometer mark that reminds you of why you’re there; that tarp which says “Konti na lang!” and that voice you hear, “Go..go..go..!” make a lot of difference. They are enough to lift your spirit up, forget for a while about that sprain or side stitch or cramp, and enough to brush aside that thought of giving up.

That’s why I was deeply grateful that Jaymie and her team gave me a chance to be part of this effort. I took the commitment to be there for batch 2 seriously that I tried my best despite my busy schedule to be present in all TBR DM2 group runs where I started to meet a few runners, got to know them and interact with them. Those conversations were enriching. I learned a lot.

Race day was hundred times more delightful. I paced a good friend, Fides Reyes. She started running only in 2009. Although my original plan was to pace another friend, Jaimie Dy and her friend, Don, it changed as race day was approaching. Jaimie found a group to run with so we agreed for me to just stick with Ate Fides since she’s alone.

With friends, Jaimie Dy and Don

I went with Ate Fides and her family to Nuvali and got there an hour before gunstart. I was so excited, I ran a few kilometers while the rest of the runners were preparing. I felt the need to do it otherwise I’d struggle controlling the adrenalin, run too fast and leave Ate Fides. At the start line, I took the chance to greet and send well wishes, and hug some people I know.

When the gun was fired and we began to run, it was so nostalgic. I remember the day when I was there as a dreamer especially when I started to see some of my batchmates pacing other participants as well. I was having goose bumps.

It was an easy run for me and Ate Fides. Along the way, she had various injuries. The first one was pain in her legs, then a side stitch, then cramps and then her toes. I’d tell her to stretch, hydrate, eat and just overcome the pain and run. We agreed beforehand that our rule would be to meet halfway, meaning, I’d listen to her if she’d want to walk or stop or slow down but she’d try to still run even slower than my desired pace for her.

Enjoying the run with TBR DM2 finisher, Ate Fides Reyes ;)

I did my best to take care of Ate Fides but not spoil her too much, remain strict in pushing her, so we’d meet my target time while allowing her to enjoy the race. I tried to encourage her but not make her believe of something that’s not true. When I told her she’s still strong and could still push and run faster, it was really because I could see that she still was. She was solid!

And when I thought that I’d be the one giving because I was the pacer, I was wrong. It was me who learned more from her and the other runners.

Ate Fides reminded me about determination and commitment when she chose to overcome those pains and tried to finish. I knew she already wanted to stop at many points but she still kept going and tried to cross the finish line. Considering her age, I’d understand if she told me she’d just give up but she did not. It was refreshing.

After I sent Ate Fides to the finish line, I tried to go back to our tent so I could help my batchmates provide support to the rest of the participants. But on my way, I’d see struggling runners and chose to just run with them in their last 2 or 3 kilometers to the finish line. They too showed me the same determination to finish. I’d talk to them and encourage them but would them encouraging me more with their stories.

Everytime I got the chance to run with a dreamer to the finish line, I felt deeply humbled being part of the fulfillment of their dreams which was equally rewarding as last year.

With another TBR DM2 finisher, Ghia who wanted to walk from Km4o but welcomed me to run with her to the finish line instead

These experiences make me love running and runners even more.

Thank you and congratulations marathoners!

OUR GUN START

2011-02-02T05:31:00.000-08:00

When I started blogging, all I wanted was to have an outlet, a pot where I could throw my thoughts and feelings out about running and anti corruption hoping that it would, in one way or another, inspire others either to keep running or love this country more.

I also mentioned that this blog would be a witness to how running and advocacy coincide in my life. In fact, I’ve had previous posts about this like how I expressed my frustration over the killing of the Freedom of Information bill by the 14^th Congress in the 2010 Condura Marathon.

This year, I’m doing another full in the Condura Marathon and again with a baggage.

The plea bargain case with Gen. Garcia involving someone I personally know and an issue very close to me which has become more than just a job has stressed me out more than I thought it would.

I’ve been having mixed feelings about the events that unfolded the past days. There’s disgust and indignation about how corruption has coursed through the veins of many of our institutions that now includes the military. There’s surprise and sadness at how some officials made it sound like all those shenanigans were normal in the guise of being part of the system and that nothing irregular was going on.

I also run out of words to describe my anger against the Office of the Ombudsman for its incompetence or deliberate disregard of common sense to please another corrupt master, and for how it’s mocking the public by maybe thinking that we could be convinced with their excuses and illogical reasoning. I could not believe how they missed a very glaring implication that accepting the plea bargain deal offered by no less than the culprit would not only put the government into a disadvantageous position but also turn our country into a haven for corrupt officials, not to mention that it was illegal as explained by former Ombudsman Simeon Marcelo.

There’s also that feeling of affinity and sympathy for Ms. Heidi Mendoza whom I had the chance to work with in several projects. I know that what she’s going through is not easy. It was difficult for her to quit a well paying job without an assurance of where to go next just to let the truth out with the hope that it would set us all free from the tentacles of those greedy men in uniform who took advantage of the power handed to them. Her courage is an inspiration. Her statements of confidence to the majority of Filipinos especially those working in government were moving. I remember her saying that one of the reasons she’s coming out was to tell the world that not all Filipinos are corrupt; that we are a people of principle and honesty.

These feelings haunt me that even if I was not planning to run to give rest to my legs especially my aching plantar, I ran. I needed an outlet and running was there to comfort and help me find rest. Never fails!

That 8k this morning led me to hoping that we’ll finally learn from this. We’ve had many moments that I thought were ground- breaking but were simply set aside and forgotten.

I hope that as a nation this will be enough for all of us to stand up against corruption not only during these grand , sensational moments but even after the dust has settled and we’re back to our routines. There’s everyday for us to respond to these revelations. We’ve our lifetime and countless ways to become better Filipinos.

I hope that we don’t just run away from this call in such a time as this. Let’s stand in front of the pack and get ready to run the race towards building this nation.

The whistle that Ms. Heidi blew was our gun start. The country needs our endurance and determination. I hope to see you at the finish line.

MY "MANTRA"

2011-01-14T02:43:00.000-08:00

I recently encountered an article saying that having a mantra helps runners stay motivated. I really don’t have any of that when I run because all I tell myself is: “this has to end soon, this has to end soon” which I don’t think is a mantra. But I believe in a set of phrases that somehow guide me as a runner that I’d like to share with you for whatever it’s worth.

TRAIN ENOUGH

Had to do a long run for the TBR Dream Marathon in a beach during a family outing

After the blessing of being able to cross the finish line during The Bullrunner Dream Marathon with a relatively good time, some runners began coming up to me asking how I was able to slice an hour from my first full at the 2010 Condura Marathon just three months after. The same thing happened after the recent Quezon City International Marathon 2. But those questions on what happened did not only pop up after good runs. People also inquired about why I was not able to meet my target during last year’s Milo Marathon Elimination.

I had one answer: training- the success of being able to commit to it and the failure to keep the discipline to do it well.

I attributed those good runs largely to training. If there’s anything that I was so proud about during the TBR DM1, it was the ability to stick to the training program. I logged the required mileage no matter how difficult given the demands of work and other personal concerns. I also did the necessary cross training even if I hated swimming in the beginning.

I made sure I completed those required 32K runs before race day even if it meant running under the scorching heat of the sun because it was summer time. I also took that to heart when training for QCIM2. It was the same thing I missed before the Milo Marathon that probably increased the probability of injury.

Sometimes, I tell myself that if I’m not able to do my long runs, I’d rather not proceed with doing the full. Maybe that sounds OA but that’s just me. That’s my way of pushing myself to complete the 3.5 hours run, alone. Because I want to run marathons so badly, I know that convincing myself to go against anything that will stop me from doing it is a good motivation. Another thing that pushes me is the thought of how bad I’d feel or how frustrated I’d get when I fail to meet the 32K target. The joy of completing it and realizing that I was able to overcome those countless excuses to stop or cheat also gives me the same energy.

My confidence lies significantly on how much I train, knowing that I don’t have as much strength or experience as other marathoners who could maybe get away with it. More than the PR, I’m aware that training is key to avoid getting injured that’s why I take it seriously.

I could stand and face that start line, join the race and work so hard to complete it, but nothing helps me outsmart the jitters of whether I’d be able to finish a long run than knowing that I did my part and trained enough. I say enough since I have the tendency to overdo it and get injured even before the race. Because I depend on training so much, I tend to take it notches higher that I should. At times, I feel like doing more is better than less, not realizing that both would lead me to tragedy. So what I try to do now is TRAIN ENOUGH- JUST ENOUGH.

EAT WELL

Had to say goodbye to these best buddies. Haven't had any for months now. Yes! ;)

During the holidays, my parents and brothers took the challenge of who’d be the first to convince me to eat sweets. My favorite leche flan and mango float were placed in front of me on the table and they all tried to tempt me. I could feel the pain on my jaw and would swallow a lot as I was trying to control myself from tasting anything. I was afraid that if I did, I might not stop and then feel guilty after. The closest I got into it was eating my Mama’s sugar- less rice cakes made especially for me. As a matter of strategy, everytime I’d feel the urge to eat sweets, I’d pick fruits instead. That wasn’t easy but I knew that I had to do it.

I am a strong believer of the saying that whatever we eat has a great impact on how we perform not only as athletes but how we live each day. It was not so much about losing weight although I also believe that being light helps us run efficiently, but more about being strong.

Keeping a healthy diet could be one of the hardest parts of being a runner especially if one wants to be serious about the sport but when one gets used to it, it naturally becomes part of one’s lifestyle that I don’t miss those potato chips and softdrinks anymore. I think that it's really a challenge to lose or maintain an ideal weight and at the same time remain strong for the training and during race day so I think that we really have to be wise in choosing what we eat.

PRAY HARD

Just an act ;) I don't pray this way

Anything can happen during a run no matter how well we prepare. I have heard of countless stories of runners who, despite their rigid training still failed to meet their target or worse did not finish the race at all. Either they get injured, feel a sudden pain somewhere, trip over a rock, etc. like what happened to me during the recent Milo Marathon. Although I think it was partly because of lack of training, it was really the surprise of my scoliosis that hit me at Km30 that weighed on me.

This builds the case for the need for divine intervention, for lack of a better term. We can only do so much in getting ready for a race but when the gun is fired, thousands of possibilities, beyond our control can happen so all I do is depend on God for grace and strength.

When I stand with the pack and wait for the gun start, I have nothing in mind but prayers for sustenance to be able to finish a race regardless whether it’s 5K or 42. And everytime I cross the finish line, the first words I utter are” Thank you, Lord.”

Running for me is a celebration of life. After going through the agony of dealing with the possibility of having cancer in 2008, I could not help but be grateful for the strength to run.

RUN STRONG

Arguing with my legs to go on since they were already screaming in pain

Whether during training or in a race, I try as much as possible to run strong. It’s my way of celebrating those efforts I exert to strengthen my core, develop my endurance, stay healthy, etc. When I hit the road, there is no other way to go but give my best like there's no tomorrow. It does not necessarily mean always sprinting but more of giving your all whether you’re keeping a steady, slow pace in a long run or doing your speed work.

HAVE FUN

I have almost 50 photos with this pose. Template!

Race day is a celebration of months of training so when I’m there I try to have fun despite the pain or that strong drive to finish fast that make me oblivious of the world. Sometimes when I find myself becoming so engrossed with a PR that all I imagine is the finish line, I remind myself to look around, appreciate the route or simply enjoy the run. You can see this in my running photos. In most of them, you’ll see me like I’m going to attack an enemy while making my template “two thumbs up” pose in some.

What I learned recently is the combination of both; that while I am so focused with hitting a PR, I also get the chance to enjoy the run, even greet and cheer people I know during turns and simply have fun.

How about you, what’s your mantra? ;)

My CIHM story: One 21 Fun

2010-12-30T00:02:00.000-08:00

“I shall return.” Yes, it was Gen Douglas Mc Arthur’s famous line which I borrowed when I joined the Conquer Corregidor run last year.

Because of the breathtaking scenery and a good run, I promised myself I’d go back to Corregidor. So when I saw the ad about the Corregidor International Half Marathon, I was not only teased, I was seduced that I wanted to immediately register.

At the Malinta Tunnel before the start of last year's Conquer Corregidor run

ALMOST MISSED IT

All those memories visited me. I felt like in trance, I could smell and feel that fresh air gushing and kissing me including the pain of trying to overcome those uphills and the joy of crossing the finish line. My plan was to be one of the first registrants to make sure I get a slot. But plan failed.

Every week since then, I’d promise myself to register but would always miss it. Either I was out of town the only time the registration opened or had limited budget that week, etc. I always had to ask Atty. Raymund Martelino, one of the organizers, if there were still slots available. I bugged him countless times on facebook. I was so worried I might not be able to join. When not being able to enlist dragged, I almost gave up. I was slowly convincing myself that Corregidor and I would have to miss each other this year. Until I was told that the registration period was extended. Wohoo!!! That news sounded like I won the P700M lottery prize. I told myself “Tito Douglas, here I come!” ;)

The last day of registration was set the day before the Quezon City International Marathon at R.O.X. Bonifacio High Street. I usually don’t tire myself going anywhere day before a marathon to get enough rest and prepare, and since BHS is in the opposite side of my world here in Quezon City I had second thoughts about going. But I think I was really meant to join the CIHM. A friend of mine, Ate Fides Reyes, out of nowhere, extremely random, texted me just to share how amazed she was with the CIHM medal and said she’s at ROX. Not minding that it was too much a favor, I asked her if she could register me. She said, “SURE!”

Lucky me!

The CIHM challenge started a week before the race. Office deadlines drowned me. My 24-hours seemed not enough to meet them. I had sleepless nights and could hardly squeeze in a run to train. I knew it would take a toll on my body and would have to deal with tired and weak legs come race day. It made me extra nervous.

HILLS… HILLS

I was so unprepared. I ran late to catch the ferry. As soon as I got there, I looked for a friend but could not find her. Lucky to have met Ms. Michelle Estuar and Sir Junrox Roque who kept me company until we got back to Manila. Because of being too busy with work, I forgot to even buy a gel so I mustered all courage to ask one from Sir Junrox who was kind enough to give me one.

When we got off the ferry and were approaching the start line, I was telling myself, “Bahala na si Mc Arthur sa’kin.” Although I was so anxious because of lack of sleep, I was also very excited to start running especially after seeing a lot of familiar faces. Since there were only less than 400 of us, I knew it would be an “intimate” run among friends.

With some friends before the gun start

After some picture taking sessions, we headed to the start line and waited for the gun start.

Fire!!! The first few kilometers were challenging. The lack of sleep was beginning to bother me. I could hardly move my legs and was gasping for air even at a warm up pace. The first thing I looked forward to was a drinking station since I was beginning to get dehydrated.

I was running meters behind Ms. Michelle who was ahead of all the women so I thought my pace was ok. But after some kilometers, I could no longer see her. I knew she began to pick her pace and that I could no longer keep up. Not that it frustrated me, it was more of amazed me at how strong she really is.

I just kept running the fastest I could. I had nothing in mind but to finish strong. It was one of those races that I really pushed myself too hard.

My template pose ;) Enjoying the run

Despite being in a hurry, I still took time to enjoy the scenery which was one of the reasons why I wanted so much to join. At many points during the run, especially the part where we could see the beautiful sea and feel the cool breeze, I was just praising God for his creation and for the chance of being able to run and run there again.

The weather was perfect. It was cold enough to keep us from being exhausted and warm enough not to freeze our legs. It was not raining. It was not sunny.

The course was also a plus. It lived up to every participant’s expectation of a challenging run. Although the uphills were expected, they stimulated me no less. While the rest sprinted on downhills, I did not, no matter how tempting. I had to manage my pace and its impact on my knees and hips to avoid hurting my scoliosis. And just when I thought I could relax until the finish line, I was wrong. Lo and behold! Another long, killer uphill stood right in front of me. I could imagine it with that smirk and hear it laugh like a witch telling me “So, you thought, you could go easy huh!” I stopped for a few seconds and said “Oh! Wow! May ganun?!” ;)

Well, I had no choice but to conquer it. So I did - walking. But even the walk was not easy. Because of the elevation, I had to exert so much effort to cross it. After that, I took a deep breath and started sprinting knowing that the finish line was just around the corner.

When I saw the finish line banner, I smiled and ran as fast I could. When I crossed it, I was told that I finished second to Ms. Michelle who was more than seven minutes of me. Blessing!

With The Queen of the Rock, Ms. Michelle Estuar and the third placer

BONDING MANIA

The run was definitely unforgettable including of course the award, but more than that it was the camaraderie that made my CIHM experience even more meaningful. With my The Bull Runner Dream Marathon batchmates and Runnex friends that cheered me all the way until the awarding ceremony, and those new runners I met along the way and after the race, it certainly deserved a special space in my favorite races.

With my TBR DM1 batchmates ;)

With my Runnex family ;)

And since our trip back to Manila was till hours after the awarding, Ms. Michelle, Sir Junrox and I spent time bonding with the other finishers over a quick drink that gave birth to Team G.

With Team G.. HAHAHA! ;)

CIHM was one of those races where the joy of crossing the finish line was extra special, not only because of the award but also because of the challenging course that I was able to conquer. It made me know myself a bit more and made me fall in love with running all over again.

Congratulations to the organizers who provided all the needed support and logistics and have given their all to make it a well organized and festive race.

With one of the organizers, Atty. Raymund Martelino and the fabulous medal

It was such a great experience. I can’t wait for the next one.

I say, "one for all, all for twenty one!"

My QCIM2 story

2010-12-06T17:01:00.000-08:00

After my terrible Milo Marathon experience when my hip snapped and I had to walk the last 5K, I promised myself, I’d train hard for my next marathon. Because of the injury, I decided not to push through with the Cam Sur Marathon because it was too close to Milo and waited for QCIM2 instead.

The training began as soon as my scoliosis felt better. I looked at the training program given to us by Coach Jim Lafferty for The Bull Runner Dream Marathon and made some revisions based on what I thought would work for me and my target. I started running five times a week and became more disciplined with my diet so I could run more efficiently. That’s how serious I was with wanting to redeem myself from that experience because I didn’t want a bad memory of a marathon and stop doing it like some people I know.

I’d wake up early morning almost everyday to either run or swim or do a run-swim. Even in those days when I didn’t feel like running, I’d still lace up and hit the road. And when I had early morning meetings, I’d wake up earlier so I could squeeze in a run or do it at night if there was time. Three of those were non-negotiable training runs while the other two in between were easy and short runs. I don’t know if it was because of this that my pace has improved as I noticed in my recent races but it definitely contributed to my QCIM2 finish.

Everything seemed ok as I was getting close to race day until I felt a throbbing pain in my right foot. I ignored it for weeks up to the point when it became so painful I had to pay attention to it. I started struggling running and walking. It was most excruciating when I’d start running but would eventually subside after a few minutes and then would recur after the run. I ran the Adidas KOTR 21K and Unilab 32K with this injury.

According to Mr. Hector Yuzon of Secondwind Running Store, it could probably be due to the worn support of my shoes that I developed plantar fasciitis but could also be because of overtraining.

Lesson learned: do not overdo it.

To ease the pain, I bought a new pair of shoes. Although it lessened a bit, it’s never completely gone. That time, I already accepted the fact that I’d deal with this hurting plantar in the QCIM.

Despite the injury, I stuck to my 4:30 target which was seven minutes less than my PR for 42K. And then I came across Ms. Michelle Estuar, one of those runners that I really respect and look up to, after the Unilab 32K race and learned that she was pacing the 4:15 group at the QCIM, I thought, maybe I could push myself a little more and try that ambitious finish time.

On my way home from the Unilab Run, I was thinking about that new goal. I had to reflect on it carefully because I knew that when I make a new target, it would have an implication on my run. When I reached home, I said 4:15 would be my “ideal” finish but I’d still stick to 4:30. That meant I’d run with the 4:15 pacers only until I could and gladly slow down if I suddenly felt I was dying.

When I thought everything’s final, a surprise came two days before QCIM2. I was asked if I’d be willing to run with the 4:45 pace group. I initially refused because I did not know how to pace. My pace has never been steady. It’s always been running as much and as fast as I could at a pace that I can still live so I doubted whether I’d be of help and said no and would just try to look for someone more experienced who could assist them. But when we could not really find anyone, I said yes.

The pressure doubled because even if the pace was slower than my target, I knew that it would be difficult because I had to be strong all throughout. I knew I could not afford to mess up and walk longer. The original plan was thrown out the window but I was excited no less. I thought it would be a new challenge and experience.

My bib number. Lucky number for the lottery ;)

I arrived early in the race area so I could help in some preparatory work being part of Runnex, one of the organizers, and do some errands before gun start.

When I saw my supposed pace partner, I was told that someone already volunteered to help the 4:45 group and I could run on my own. Still good news.

I drank a cup of water before approaching the start line. I was too anxious, I tore the plastic cup into pieces without me knowing it. My hands were cold. I was so nervous. The Milo Marathon nightmare was haunting me.

I stood behind the 4:15 pacers and started running. I thought that if we maintain that pace, maybe I could reach my new impossible dream. I just kept on running until the pacers and I lost each other and my usual unstable pace ruled.

I tried to manage my energy that even if I could run faster in the first half, I did not. I told myself, the journey was still long and I had to reserve my energy.

I slowed down in all water stations to hydrate. Frankly, I felt stronger during the Unilab 32K run. My legs were stiff this time. I even had to run backwards at one point just to transfer the pressure to my other hip because I was so afraid of another Milo scenario.

I pushed on up hills and slowed down on down hills to avoid hurting my knees and hips too much. The run in the entire Commonwealth was exhausting. But when we entered the La Mesa park, I was refreshed by the scenery. I could not help but thank the Lord for the strength and privilege to run. All I prayed for was an injury-free finish. It was refreshing. When we hit the Km22 mark and turned around, the second wind kicked in. I felt stronger so I ran a bit faster for about five kilometers and then slowed down because my legs were slowly getting tired. I was saddened seeing those who stopped because of cramps. One was even shouting because of the pain. I could feel their agony. I knew how it felt and all I could do was cheer them up.

Maybe it’s true that only a marathoner understands another because even if we did not know each other, I considered everyone my teammates, friends even that when I saw anyone suffering, I really felt bad. I think it’s because everytime I’m in a long run, there’s that sense of camaraderie that you are all looking at the same direction and mustering all courage and strength to reach the same goal.

At the commonwealth area going back to UP, I felt that most of us were already wasted. We were lined up, running slow at a steady pace and would stop for a few seconds at every hydration point.

I was so looking forward to seeing the Km 30 mark that when I saw it, I smiled and told myself “I LIKE”.

When we entered UP, it was only Km 34. I heard someone screamed “eight more?!” I smiled at him and said “eight na lang po.”

My legs were beginning to complain. I could hear them begging me to stop and walk. I was tempted to yield and walk longer but I tried to meet them half way and ran slow. When we entered the academic oval, I was trying to convince myself that it was only one of those regular Sunday runs just to let go of the pressure of being in a race.

My legs and knees and hips were so tired and painful. I asked myself, “Reylynne, does this surprise you? You know that pain is part of the package so deal with it.” So I ran through pain.

When we got to C.P. Garcia to complete the 40K and the route was still rolling, I had no choice but to walk for a few seconds because if I did not, I’d probably crawl to the finish. I also felt hungry and thirsty. When I felt helpless with no water station close to where I was and had no idea where I could get food, two Kuyas called me and invited me to run with them and offered me a drink. Blessing! We didn’t know each other by name but we used to see each other in UP every Sunday so there was that sense of familiarity. I ran with them until I reached a water station. Then I saw a stranger holding a banana and without any dash of hesitation, I asked for it and she gladly gave it to me. Call it desperation.

The moment I saw the Km 40 mark, I suddenly felt stronger so I sprinted until the finish.

Because I wanted to surprise myself, I chose not to ask anyone about how long have we been running or at what pace even if I was so tempted to.

When I was approaching the finish line, I realized I did not reach the 4:15 dream but minutes earlier than my original target. It was 4:22 (but 4:27 based on the official results).

When I stepped on the mat and crossed the finish line, I thanked God for sustaining me without suffering any terrible injury and for blessing me with the bonus of a new PR.

QCIM2 medal for 42K finishers

Then I was handed the medal. Although the run was way beyond just getting a medal, it was a consolation for all the hard work I put in those months of training and in trying to finish the race.

Written in that medal were those mornings when I’d rather sleep but chose to be out on the road; those times when I could make a million excuses not to swim but I did. Engraved in it were those moments when I was tempted to indulge in my all time favorite potato chips and mocha cake but I refused to; those long runs when I knew I could cheat myself with the required mileage but I chose not to and completed it instead.

The race was a celebration of those months of hard work. It truly paid off that I did not suffer from terrible muscle pain unlike my previous marathons when I could hardly walk after and feel the pain for days.

Running a marathon changes my life everytime. It gives me fresh perspective in life and makes me know myself and my Creator better.

I salute all the QCIM2 finishers, regardless of the distance you ran. I believe that every runner has a story to tell about trying to cross the finish line, I’d love to hear that and even if I don’t get the chance, I say, congratulations! ;)

UNPACKING PACMAN'S SECRET

2010-11-15T15:38:00.000-08:00

“Kung di ako nag training baka hindi ko kinaya yung laban.”

This was Cong. Manny Pacquiao’s response to Diane Castillejo’s question about how he was able to finish the fight strong.

That's me running beside Pacman ;)

Pacquiao said that it was one of his most difficult fights and that it was tiring to go around the ring to avoid being cornered so Margarito would not have the chance to blow punches given his height advantage. He practically had to jog around and depend on his footwork to have the upper hand.

It was like a David- Goliath fight. Pacquiao was like a kid being bullied by an older man but like the biblical story, the smaller one won. And if you’d compare the way they appeared after, you’d notice the huge difference and even without checking the scoreboard and count the number bruises on their faces, you’d arrive at the same indisputable conclusion that the belt belonged to Pacquiao.

What enabled Pacquiao to do this? Aside from I guess his natural boxing talent, I think and as he himself claimed, was his training. Coach Freddie Roach, however, has recently raised concerns about Pacquiao’s lack of focus in training because of his athlete’s various involvements. But Pacquiao tried to get back on track.

Because I’ve always admired Pacquio’s discipline, I did a quick search on his training program and found out that his trainors focused on three things: strength, speed and agility.

His usual training days include running with intervals as early as 5am, with either hill sprints or a run in the sand. Sometimes, Pacquiao swims. At the end of this session, they’d do plyometrics, ladder drills and core exercises. I’m not sure if it’s true that they hit his abs with a hard object to improve its strength but I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s really how it is.

Oh! There's me again ;)

After that routine he’d do a thorough cool down stretching followed by a meal rich in carbohydrates to raise his insulin and promote recovery. He then goes home after an intake of protein shake, rest and then proceed with a session in the gym in the afternoon where he starts with a thorough warm up and shadow boxing then plyometrics and core strengthening exercises with weights, medicine balls, resistance bands and sometimes with a baseball bat where he swings and hits a bag with it. Then he will start with punching exercises with Roach, speed bags for several rounds and then jump rope for a few minutes before a good stretch to finish off the day.

Just writing this tired me ;)

This does not even include the kind of diet he maintains especially since he moves from one division to another. I could imagine how strict his diet is to have enough energy for the training but at the same time not gain weight or the effort to gain weight if he has to for a certain weight division.

It must have been difficult living a life being dictated and limited with the food you’re allowed to eat. Although according to his trainors, they did not have a hard time putting Pacquiao in an intensive training routine because of his clean and healthy lifestyle.

His commitment and discipline is really laudable. It inspires me to do the same as I train for my next full marathon which also requires a lot of sacrifice and hard work. Many times I get so tempted to shaft on the required mileage or to extend my diet cheat days but when I think of how difficult a marathon could be, I am motivated to keep the discipline. It also helps being reminded of my best marathon which I attribute to good training and the worst one which could be because of improper training .

Let me find an excuse from emulating the Champ. He is a pro, I am not. He probably had all the time to train especially after taking a leave from Congress while I have to squeeze in training in between tons of work stuff and a lot of other responsibilities. But whether pro or not, his discipline is still undeniably admirable because even if he had all the time and resources, he also had the freedom to go easy and let his previous victories get into his head and not train but he chose to take advantage of the privileges in his hands to reach the goal. So, I concede.

Pacquiao obviously loves his craft and has so much respect for it that he gets himself to commit to this rigid training. He’s also extremely motivated by his family and the Filipino people.

So I will also try to be as much disciplined and dedicated to training, maintain that love and respect for running, and sustain my motivation in finishing that long, potentially arduous 42 kilometers in December and my next marathons.

But these lessons I will not only apply to running but in other areas like work, studies, photography, or any other endeavor that challenges me to stay focused and excel.

Of course, it’s another story how Pacquiao will perform as a member of the House of Representatives, something to watch out for. I hope that he will be as focused. Let’s see.

Photos 1&2 from: http://mysundaespecial.blogspot.com/2010_04_01_archive.html

Photo 3: http://professionalheckler.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/man.jpg

Training program from:http://www.strengthspeedagility.com/manny-pacquiao-training-program

RUNNING WITHOUT "FRILLS"

2010-11-09T15:32:00.000-08:00

I learned a lot from my parents. One of which was the virtue of being content with simple things and the joy of accepting the reality that there are many things I want that I'd not be able to get because I couldn’t afford. Not that they taught me to be a mediocre and not work hard but it was about the value of embracing a fact of life that we’re not as financially privileged as others are but certainly not less blessed. I’ve seen my parents exert all effort to provide for our needs and give some of our wants. They taught me and my siblings to distinguish between needs and wants; between those wants that we should once in a while indulge ourselves into and those that fall under the "spur of the momen"t category and therefore should not be taken seriously.

I grew up realizing the need to give my best to get those that I dream of; material or otherwise. I also gained the ability to turn my back without feeling down from something I so desire by simply telling myself that I have limited resources and should prioritize those that I truly need. I never complained about this limitation especially when I started to see that my situation is better than those whose needs are more basic. I don’t capitalize on other’s poverty for comfort, it's just that this sad truth humbles me and allows me to put things in perspective.

These lessons I carry in many aspects of life, even in running. When I got into it, all I knew was I wanted to run because it felt good. As I was slowly getting engrossed in it, I discovered that there were other considerations to take to run more efficiently like buying the right shoes to avoid an injury. I checked the costs of running shoes and was surprised to find out how expensive they could get. The practical side of me was screaming. I had to satisfy and convince it with countless reasons that a pair of running shoes deserved that amount of money. I thought it was a genuine need and not just a ploy of capitalism. So after a long debate with myself, I bought my first pair of running shoes. It was worth it. I wore it in my first race.

In that race, I saw runners wearing nice and fancy stuff. Although I found them amazing, it didn’t really bother me until a friend commented and said that running is a sport for the rich who can afford to buy the “necessary” accessories to run efficiently. I was so quick to refute it. Then I heard another person telling me that she got intimidated and insecure being with runners who had gears she could not afford. I told her she didn’t need to have them as long as she has the right running shoes. I believe other things can be negotiated but not the running shoes since messing that up could result to greater cost of having to heal an injury.

Before I continue, let me say that I have nothing against those who choose to splurge in gears and equipment they feel they need to run more efficiently. I strongly support those choices. I think that need is a relative concept. What I think I need may not be the same as others and vice versa. I am also not saying that it’s bad to have stuff in excess of needs especially if one has the ability to buy. I am not here to judge others and say that I am better or encroach on other people's choices and decisions. I intend nothing of the sort.

I’m writing this to argue the point that people like me who don’t have so much means to buy expensive gears have no place in the world of running and would enjoy it less and not be as efficient. I also hope to inspire those who are having these thoughts that discrimination never had a place in running. One thing that I loved about this sport was that it’s a social equalizer. It does not recognize gender, social status, nationality or race, etc. Anyone can get into running and enjoy it to the fullest.

Since I consider myself one of the simplest runners, I’d like to share my experience for whatever it’s worth. By simple I mean, having nothing but the basic gears in running. Simple can have another meaning but for the sake of clarity of connotations with respect to this article, let me use that as an operating definition of simple.

RUNNING SHOES

I have two running shoes but using only one most of the time and got the second one only by accident.

In 2009, I bought my running shoes and then lost it so I had to buy another one. It was so devastating. Imagine how I had to save up to buy that shoes and the fear that I might not be able to buy another one soon considering that there was an upcoming race at that time. So, as soon as I had extra money for shoes, I went to the store and grabbed the cheapest I saw. I used it in a 21K race and had a terrible injury after so I bought another one which I have been using for almost a year now. The support is no longer that efficient. It has gone three full marathons and undergoing training for my fourth. It’s causing me injury now which means I have to buy another one soon. It's an urgent need but will have to wait a bit since I still have to plan my finances carefully being one of the breadwinners in the house. Until a surprise came through a friend who offered to give me her slightly used shoes. Nice! ;)

- My best running buddy that I soon have to let go -

APPARELS

I only have a few cheap running shorts. It’s good that I’m most comfortable with shorts that’s why I have never been enticed by compression tights although some said they provide comfort and are good for muscle recovery. I’m not sure if it’s because of the price that I have learned to convince myself that I will not be comfortable with it or the other way around. But the point is if you can’t afford it, maybe shorts can do the trick until you get the chance to buy one if you think you really need it.

I only have two caps. One, I bought on sale, the other one, was given by a friend and so far, it works for me. Just don’t mind looking the same in your running pictures. Let go of the fashion concerns and you’ll do great with a few gears.

I’ve never bought any running shirt. I only have one given by Runnex, everything else are free from races.

GADGETS

I use my old, almost useless cellular phone as an “i-pod”. I’ve been meaning to buy an i-pod but because of many other priorities, it’s been parked. While I can use my other cell phone to entertain myself during long runs, I choose my old phone because it's more durable. I place masking tape on its earphones to keep the wires intact since they’re already loose. When you see me on the road reaching something from my pocket, that’s because I’m trying to fix the tape on my phone so I could hear the sounds clearly. It's the one I used it in all my marathons. It survived being soaked in the rain that’s why I value it a lot.

-My Ay! pod that has kept me going like no other-

I’ve no garmin nor sports watch, I just depend on my old celfon or ask other runners if I want to check my pace or my time, although most times I just wait until I cross the finish line to keep that element of surprise and sustain my impatience which pushes me to go faster.

JOINING RACES

Weekend races are definitely fun. It feels good being surrounded with a multitude of runners but these days race fees have become a bit expensive. I had a friend who made computations of how much she spent on running and I was surprised of the total. I also encounter runners, especially the older ones, who’d tell me they could no longer afford joining races even if they wanted to.

I used to join all weekly runs but eventually learned to select. I personally choose those whose beneficiaries or advocacy I strongly support, those that offer long distances, those with nice and new routes and are organized by reliable groups.

I said that discrimination never had its place in running but practicality and innovations had. There are so many ways you can enjoy running without having to spend too much. You can either run alone or invite friends to run with you, etc.

The whole point is that one can enjoy running without having to worry about gears, gadgets and what have you. Go back to the basic – right running shoes, comfortable shorts/tights, shirt and cap. They don’t have to be in the high end. But if you think you need more than these and that you really need the branded ones, then go for it. If at the moment, you cannot afford them, you can make do of the cheaper, comfortable ones and then buy those in the future. But not having them or other stuff should not stop anyone from getting into running.

After all, there's thrill in running without "frills".

Life after death: An update on the Freedom of Information campaign

2010-10-31T19:40:00.000-07:00

A Senate hearing was recently held to probe on how the media behaved during the recent hostage fiasco. Media has received flaks from all directions for their blow- by- blow account of the event which said to have contributed to the tragedy. And because some media personalities and individuals justified their coverage as an exercise of their duty to provide the public with information consistent with the people's right to know, the Freedom of Information bill was dragged in the midst of the heated debates.

According to Senator Gringo Honasan, Senate Committee on Public Information, the Senate hearing held last 14 September 2010 was intended to discuss the Freedom of Information bill, among others. Although the FOI bill was not discussed during the session, the bill has been repeatedly mentioned outside the Senate halls especially during the IIRC investigation. On the other side of the fence was the argument that the incident clearly spelled out the limits of the people’s right to know. Even if this seeming tension did not substantially affect the advocacy since it did not result in the revision of any provision it certainly brought the bill back in the circulation.

When the media conveniently used the right to information as a shield against public’s and government official’s slur, IIRC member, Teresita Ang See tore the screen by saying that life is more important than the people’s right to know. ABC 5 News and Current Affairs head, Ms. Luchi Cruz- Valdes sounded off the same when she said in the Senate hearing that they draw the line in their full blast coverage when lives are at stake. The discourse then became life versus right to information which I find reasonable. I think that in general, the value of anything diminishes when it becomes a matter of life and death.

But if one would disentangle freedom of information from the hostage fiasco, the recent discourse would give rise to another reality that sometimes freedom of information, not only affects life but is life itself. In many cases, information breathes life to a dying institution, in the most abstract terms and, survival from physical death in the most practical one.

This has been very well summarized by Ms. Aruna Roy, a Ramon Magsaysay Awardee for Public Service and a staunch advocate of Freedom of Information in India when she said that right to information is right to life. The case of Sumilao farmers, for instance, who were denied of information about the land they claim resulted in a defeat which was tantamount to lost of their main source of food and livelihood.

This assertion is vital in keeping the advocacy alive especially after the 14^th Congress killed the bill. The lifeblood of a hardly hit, almost suicidal advocacy has been the fact that indeed there is life after death. This hope is embraced even if death has visited twice when the President refused to mention the bill as his priority during his State of the Nation Address.

Moving on, the Right to Know. Right Now! Campaign is gearing up for the 15^th Congress. A series of planning has been held and a number of activities and strategies were set.

Participatory running: Comments on the Adidas King of the Road 2010

2010-10-24T20:02:00.000-07:00

Context

I don’t usually write reviews of races because of various reasons. One, because I don’t feel experienced enough to comment considering that I only started running last year and have not been involved in race organizing so I'm afraid my comments might miss components I'm not aware of. This brings me to my second reason which is just to leave it to other bloggers who I believe have more right than me.

I have attempted a few times to comment on races but I decided to just to let go. I thought others would do it anyway. But I think that maybe it’s time to say my piece than to forever hold it. Not that I gained the authority to comment just because I’ve added a few months to my running life or been into organizing race, because not yet still, but simply by being a consumer or a participant who has a stake, more than the fee I paid but as a responsible member of the community of runners. Consistent with the participatory governance framework that we espouse in Transparency and Accountability Network, which is expressed through amplifying those small voices and providing spaces for involvement, may I make this constructive criticism about yesterday’s Adidas of the Road with the hope that I'd be able to contribute to the improvement of races. I also would like to be a responsible blogger that no matter how small my reach is, I hope to be able to share the sentiments of a few friends who asked me to do so.

As one of the most anticipated runs, the Adidas KOTR lived up to the expectation of a sophisticated singlet. There were also enough kilometer marks. I think it’s also a good point that trash bags were provided near water stations so there’d be lesser trash. The cheerers and inspirational quotes were also good. The breakfast, although not a buffet, was also nice. The provision of a medal was a plus point although I expected a better design.

It was a good race but could have been better which I think it should have achieved given the kind of expectation it raised through its publicity. Although all races are expected to be well- organized, I think that there were higher expectations of and therefore, less tolerance for mistakes in the Adidas KOTR because of how it’s been projected and the fee that was paid.

Here are my few comments, for whatever it’s worth.

Baggage counter

I got to the race venue a bit late. Not later than gun start but late in reference to the ideal time that I think I should be in any race which is at least an hour before the start to have enough time to do my errands. I went to the baggage counter and saw a long queue. What I did was look for the table for the 21K runners as provided in other races but I found out that there was no such thing. A thousand baggage were mixed up. What made it worse was the number of people in the counter. There were a few of them having to entertain a huge number of runners. I think that the rush was partly because some runners especially those in the half marathon category, like me, came late. But I heard that even those who have been there earlier almost did not make it in time for the gun start because they waited on the queue for almost 30 minutes.

Good thing that those in other categories whose gun start was later gave way to 21K runners since the start was nearing.

While running back to the start area to check in, I told myself, it would surely be chaotic picking up the baggage after the race. As I crossed the finish line, the first thing I did, aside from drinking and stretching, was get my baggage before the other runners came. And reality did not frustrate me. What I imagined to be chaotic turned out to be a riot. Tired runners who probably wanted to get their towels from their bags to be refreshed or get their phones to reach their friends, had to spend more energy looking for their bags in the ocean of baggage so they could point it to those in charge since the bib number scheme was no longer working. I also pitied those manning the counter who were starting to get cranky because of being pressured by thousands of voices asking for their bags. My impatience was starting to set in but I thought I should understand those in the counter. While I hated how the system worked, I also did not like it that some runners were shouting at them.

It was like buying meat in a wet market or putting bet in a cockfight that morning. And by wet I mean, wet and muddy.

Suggestion: Have a space and people for each race category. This way, one would not have to sort from thousands of bags but only through a lesser number of baggage. If possible, to have it arranged based on the bib number, not necessarily in order but maybe by first numbers in the bib, etc.

Route

The route was nice because I found it challenging. I thought it would be a nice course until Km 13 or 14 when 21K runners had to compete for space with a battalion of 10K runners coming in from the High Street to Buendia. The flyover was so narrow to accommodate the number of runners. I personally had to slow down and find a space where I could run. Not only that I was aiming for a PR but I felt I had all the energy and adrenalin to run faster which comes so rarely in a long run that I wanted to take advantage of but I could not. I don’t know how to explain it and express in exact words how frustrating it felt. I could understand that happening when we were aiming for a world record when we welcomed walkers to participate just to reach the required number but I thought we could have done better yesterday. For runners, like myself, who really looked forward to the race for a PR or train for any upcoming marathon, it was painful to hear them say goodbye to PR and walk.

Safety was a more serious issue. It was almost suffocating to be in that narrow space and rub elbows with other runners especially that the sun was then beginning to show up. If one was claustrophobic or asthmatic, he/she could just faint gasping for air.

Suggestion: A better route or maybe a longer gap between gun starts

Hydration

Picking up bottles of energy drink and water lest by other runners along the course was not tolerable in an expensive race like the Adidas KOTR. I saw a few who did it just to get hydrated. I think that above all, hydration is non-negotiable. The singlet was probably worth the registration fee but it’s not an excuse for insufficient hydration. I’m sure that the organizers anticipated the number of runners joining and should have prepared enough.

I don’t usually wear a hydration belt because I don’t like to add weight while running so I always have to pray that organizers would provide for sufficient hydration and luckily, very, very few races have frustrated me. I knew that I could have that worry in other races but not yesterday. I thought I could be secured of enough water, at least or of energy drinks as a bonus because it’s “THE” Adidas KOTR but I was wrong.

I forgot which part it was exactly where I had to wait for almost a minute just to have the chance to drink because no water was on the table and the bottles were just being unpacked. I thought of leaving but I badly needed to drink so I waited. Never mind those seconds lost to have a PR than to die in thirst but it was so frustrating.

If I may add, I also did not like it that that plastic cups were used rather paper cups. Even if there are still arguments as to which one would really be beneficial to the environment, I think that in many counts, it’s still better to use paper cups since they decompose easily. As runners, it would be good to also be environmental friendly. This one can be considered an over reaction by some but the hydration, as I said, is basic.

Suggestion: More water stations or more water in the stations.

I’m sure it’s difficult to organize races especially big ones like the Adidas KOTR. Having said this, I still commend the organizers for all the efforts to make it as orderly and fun as possible. The rooms for improvement I hope would be noted.

I miss my Tita run

2010-10-17T05:10:00.000-07:00

"I wish you're still here. I'm sure you'd be proud of your running Reylynne."

I have been telling this to myself while trying to finish the 15K course of The Pink Run this morning. I could not help but cry as I recall those days with my Tita Edad who succumbed to breast cancer in 2005. I saw how she struggled to defeat cancer and stop it from continually making her suffer.

I’ve seen miseries in my life but my Tita’s fight against cancer was one of the most heartbreaking. I remember how I’d go out of her room so she wouldn’t see my crying. But in my private moments, I would wail and ask God for help. I could not bear the sight of one of the strongest, jolliest and hyper women I knew scream in pain and helplessness. I could not understand why one of the most generous, sweetest and selfless persons should go through that agony.

Tita Edad did not have a child of her own. All of us, her nieces and nephews, considered her our second mother since she devoted all her life taking care of us. Some of my cousins even call her Mama. Our childhood, mine especially would not be as happy if not for her.

Every summer, when I was in grade school and high school, my family would take a month-long vacation in Ilocos Norte where my Mama came from. We would stay in my Tita Edad’s house and my cousins would also sleep there so we could bond. Every morning, the smell of native brewed coffee, fried rice, pakbet or diningding or fried banana would wake us up. A long table would be set for all of us, not only for breakfast but also for lunch and dinner, and when it was time to eat, we would all go wild. It was like having a feast everyday and that’s because of my Tita Edad and Lola.

Tita loved all of us so dearly that she dedicated a wall in her house for our photos. We all had our solo shots there. It’s been a protocol in the family to always send her a duplicate copy of photos of any significant event in our lives. And if a new cousin were born, the wall would immediately be updated. When she died my cousins and I revisited that wall and mourned. We were all devastated. I was crushed.

Tita Edad taught me to harvest sweet potato from the soil and climb up a tree to get my favorite fruit while telling me that I had to work hard to get what I want. It was a lesson I carry until now. She also took me to the farm to harvest vegetables while talking to me about simple joys. She was the best. She was never tired. She was always on the go. She was the best!

When I learned that the Pink Run was for the fight against breast cancer, I told myself, I should definitely be there. If there’s any race I should not miss, I knew it was this one

While running, I was praying for all the women I know to be spared from breast cancer and for those who are in the midst of the battle to win.

There was a part in the course when I just marveled at the rays of the sun shining and imagined talking to my favorite Tita. I told her how much I miss and love her. Then tears started to fall. I was crying while running.

Since I feel I have not thanked her enough for adding joy and color into my life, I made the run an expression of my gratitude and love.

I even told myself that if God told me then that running would heal her, I'd gladly run non-stop.

This morning, I realized that until now, even after her death, she has never stopped inspiring me. If she’s here, I’m sure she’d be one of my avid fans, and my running photos and medals would be posted on her wall.

I miss you Tita Edad. I love you.

5th at the Ondoy No More Run

2010-10-01T23:54:00.000-07:00

Ondoy was one of those few moments when I felt a certain degree of fear that I don’t usually get no matter how dangerous things become. Most times, I manage to face difficult situations with enough courage until I get through it or pretend that fear doesn’t exist even if I’m trembling. But that day, when I got trapped in the UP Diliman College of Engineering and could not go home, my defenses crumbled.

I had no idea that those flood I encountered along the way to UP that morning would not subside and worse, fatal. When I left the house to be in a forum on Freedom of Information, I knew that the typhoon was strong because it took me an hour just to get to UP from my place in Timog, Quezon City. I didn’t know that those flooded streets would turn into an ocean in just a couple of hours.

Just how bad Ondoy was

After waiting for few hours hoping that the rain would subside, I decided to take the risk and go home even if I knew that things were getting worse. The impatient, control freak me could not bear the feeling of doing nothing to respond . I started getting worried for my family and friends. I told myself, I should to something and move. I went out of the building, swam and got home after more than 3 hours of going around Quezon City.

Ondoy will always be memorable not just for me but for the rest of the country. It’s a disaster that shook everyone. It was a social equalizer as both rich and poor were equally hit. It was a calamity that should have taught us many lessons and a catastrophe that should never happen again.

Because of this experience, I told myself I’d support all efforts possible to help and make sure it does not happen again. Last year, I participated in the Rescue Run to raise funds for the victims, this year I joined the Ondoy No More Run by Thunderbird.

With my running friends after the race. Kassy on my right

Thanks to my friend, Kassy Pajarillo (The Flexitarian Runaholic) who gave me a free race kit and invited me to join her just hours before the gun start. It was a delightful surprise. At 10:00 pm, on my way home to rest for my regular Sunday long run in UP, I got a call from Kassy inviting me to join the race. Without any second thought, I said yes. I reset my mind to a new Sunday.

I woke up later than I should so I had to rush to the meeting place where the bus that would take us to Rizal was. I was lucky I was still able to catch it less than a minute before it left. Told myself, I’m really destined to join the race.

Maybe I really was because I finished with a new 10K PR of 47 mins. Although some said that it was 400m short. I luckily ranked 5^th among the women despite the killer up hills in the course. Kassy told me that there would be up hills but both of us were surprised to have encountered mountains to climb, not to mention that there were a number of them.

With the race organizer, handing the gift pack for the 5th placer

I just thought it was a nice route for my QCIM Marathon training since I don’t get to train in up hills very often in Quezon City. The view was breath taking. I tried not to focus on the struggle to run those up hills and enjoy the scenery and the run.

While running, I was praying and thanking the Lord for how he kept me and my loved ones safe last year and how he helped the entire country to survive and slowly recover from the Ondoy nightmare.

One of the killer uphills. It doesn't look so fatal in the picture though

After crossing the finish line, I did another 3K to add to my mileage and kept enjoying the place.

That run was a declaration that it’s really Ondoy no more and never again.

My favorite races so far (Part 2)

2010-09-19T06:34:00.000-07:00

Top 3

Quezon City International Marathon

October 2009, Commonwealth, Quezon City

21K; 2:30

QCIM was my first half marathon, maybe one of my unforgettable long runs since I had it just two months after I got addicted to running. Like my first full marathon, I was also half hearted about jumping into the half marathon thinking it was too much, too soon. And like what I did when I registered for the Condura Marathon, I got myself in the 21K list while in trance, turned my back from the registration table to give no room for any second thought and started training. QCIM was my baptism in the running world. Although not my first race, since I joined GMA 7’s Tatakbo ka Ba and Rescue Run for Ondoy victims prior, my running friends said those were not like the usual races so I didn’t have any idea about how a “real” race goes.

I was extremely overwhelmed with the vast number of runners who joined the race. That was the first time I got introduced to that vibrant community of runners. I was smiling while walking towards the start line. What a sight! I relished in that dream world that I didn’t hear the gun start. I just learned that it was already fired when I felt being pushed by the runners behind me. That was it- the beginning of a dream. I knew it would be a long journey of so many firsts and it indeed was.

That was the first time I saw pacers, I didn’t know there was such a thing. I never imagined that there’d be bananas and cheerers along the way. I was so entertained by all these I didn’t realize I was getting close to the finish line. When I reached the finish, I almost cried. I could not contain the joy. I was too happy and proud I went home wearing my medal.

This year, I will pay tribute to that wonderful QCIM experience by doing a 42K.

Top 2

Conquer Corregidor

December 2009, Corregidor

16K; sub-2

I like history but not as much as my other friends. But even then, I had no second thoughts about joining the Conquer Corregidor run. The chance of going there and revisiting the Philippine history were enough for me to be willing to go through the challenging registration process. I took a half-day off just to be able to register and make arrangements for travel and accommodations. That’s how decided I was.

I fell in-love with the place the moment I set my eyes on it from the window of the ferry. Corregidor was oozing with freshness despite being filled with antiquity. I loved the space, the air and the thought that so much of my present were influenced by what occurred in that place. The day before the race, my friend and I joined the tour until late night and took pleasure in taking photos of the place.

With hundreds of runners waiting for the start at the Malinta Tunnel

And although we waited for almost an hour before the start, it was worth it. The route was amazing. We started at the Malinta tunnel and ran around the place where more historical artifacts were displayed. I knew that the road where I set my foot on was the same road many Filipino heroes walked on. While running and seeing the ruins, I was reflecting on where we are now as a nation until I reached those killer up hills when I began to lose my senses. The part that I loved the most was running beside the sea where the cold wind was gushing on my face. I couldn’t help but adore the God of creation. The entire course led me to worshipping the Lord whose beauty and goodness screams through his creation.

It was a heavenly experience that when I crossed the finish line, I wanted to run more which I’d probably do this year.

Top 1

The Bullrunner Dream Marathon

22 May 2010, Nuvali, Laguna

42K; 4:38

Everytime I’m asked about TBR DM, I'm always at a loss about where and how to start. The second I think about it, so many thoughts begin to cross my mind, I don’t know which one to say first. Sometimes when I talk about it, I notice myself not finishing my sentences because I jump from one thought to another so quickly. My tongue could not catch up with my brain which is filled with good and heartwarming memories. It always feels like it just happened yesterday.

IT'S THE BEST MARATHON! IT'S PERFECT! I don’t know how else to describe it. Every single moment before, during and after the race is still vivid. I can still hear Jaymie Pizarro (The Bullrunner) hosting the Bull Sessions, introducing the speakers, etc. I can still hear Neville of 2^nd Wind say “We run the marathon because it’s there.” I can still feel the excitement of joining our long runs. I can still feel that sense of family during the race when everyone was so engrossed in nothing but supporting each other in fulfilling each of our dreams together.

With Kuya Brian Ng and Kuya Lito Lopez at the finish line

The support that Jaymie and the rest of the team gave was fantastic. It was more than enough and beyond what we expected. I don’t think I will ever find another race with such kind of pampering.

Aside from the many lessons in running I gained from the TBR DM program, it was finding new friends that I will always thank it for.

I consider being in the first batch of the TBR DM a lifetime honor and pride, and I will pay it forward by volunteering to help the second batch.

Podium finish

2010-09-13T02:23:00.000-07:00

The Fort Striders Run on 12 September 2010 will now find its place in the list of my memorable races since it’s the first time I experienced a podium finish. I placed 3^rd among the women in the 16K category with a 1:25 time.

But I wouldn’t have it without the generosity of my friends, Ate Dee and Ate Fides who invited and registered me to join the race. I had zero idea about it. I asked for information only the night before the race. That’s how unprepared I was.

That same night, an unexpected visitor came. It gladly brought along discomfort and abdominal pain that bugged me the entire race.

I honestly set a target for a PR but it has gone out the window when all these problems cropped up, not to mention that I was still feeling wasted from an official weeklong training workshop out of town.

Despite these, not joining did not cross my mind especially since I've always looked forward to long runs on a weekend. It was not the first time that I ran through pain so I thought I should just deal with it the way I dealt with the previous ones.

Pretending to be ok before the gun start

At the start line, there were reserved spaces for each pace. The ones who intended to run at four to five minute- pace were given the frontline. I stood between the five and six- min pace but was open to missing my target because of the pain.

When I heard the gun start, I ran. When I started running, all I was thinking was to push myself as fast as I could because I promised someone I’d give my best in that run. It may sound weird, but in most races, especially the long ones, I've tried to look for a motivation to keep me going. During the Globe Run for Home, for instance, what inspired me was the prayer for my mother who then was suspected of a serious disease. I dedicated that run for her. The Rescue Run of course was for the Ondoy victims, while the 2009 Adidas King of the Road was my run against corruption. They helped me psych myself to run faster. Yesterday, I imagined someone waiting for me at the finish line. That thought sustained me and eased the pain that tried so hard to stop me from finishing the entire distance.

While running, I would see people trying to tell me something. I couldn’t hear them since I had my ear phones. Later, I realized that they’re informing me that I was third among the female runners. But just like in the TBR Dream Marathon where I was being told along the way of my rank, I did not mind that so much. I appreciated the encouragement that people gave me but I’ve always promised myself not to make that my main motivation. It’s always been that, if I get it, well and good. If not, perfectly fine. The more important thing is giving my best to reach a goal. I also thought they’re mistaken and might have missed the other female runners ahead of me.

Ms. Michelle Estuar, top female finisher

I ran at my comfortable pace during the first five kilometers, pushed a little further in the next five and then slowed down because of abdominal pain at around Km12. When I thought of quitting, I just kept on thinking of that someone at the finish line and it did the trick.

What I did was took advantage of all the water stations to rest, walk for a few seconds and recharge. When I saw the 13K mark, I thought, I could push it a little more since I still had the energy (despite the pain) and wouldn’t have to run beyond the finish line anyway. But when I was approaching that open space where the sun seemed to have focused its rays on without the sight of any drinking station, I decided to slow down.

After that part and I got the chance to drink, I picked my pace and ran strong to the finish where the organizers told me that I was the third woman to finish. I still did not believe it until my name was called and was handed the trophy. Wohoo! ;)

First podium finish ;)

My favorite races so far (Part 1)

2010-09-06T06:13:00.000-07:00

Top 6

Lactacyd Women Relay

June 2010, Bonifacio High Street

21K Relay. Team time: 1:49:42

My parts: 1^st leg (10K): 50:14; 4^th leg (3K): 12:16

With Team Runnex and Coach Rio before the race

The Lactacyd Women Run 2010 was my first relay. I ran with two friends, Dee Allas and Fides Reyes. We ranked 14th of 84 teams. Not bad! ;)

While all the other teams were composed of four runners, we were the only one of three, that’s why I had to run the first and last legs of the relay, 10K and 3k respectively.

It was a week before the 34^th Milo Marathon so I promised myself I would take it easy but the thought that there were people eagerly waiting for me at the finish line changed my plan. When I heard the gun start, I ran faster than my race pace. I noticed I was sprinting I had to remind myself of the upcoming marathon and slow down.

I enjoyed seeing runners in their amusing costumes. I loved it as well that the run was exclusively opened for women which gave me a sense of pride that women who are usually viewed to be the weaker gender could conquer a sport that needs power and strength. I liked the sight of women with so much determination in their eyes to finish fast and strong.

Since, there were only few runners around, I had the chance to savor the moment of running with the “demigods” in the running universe.

The atmosphere was light, fun and unique.

Top 5

Condura Marathon

7 February 2010, Skyway

42K; 5:36

The Condura Run 2010 was my first 42K that’s why it will always be one of my most memorable races. It was the first time I went through a rigid training that became the starting point of the many changes in my life. Condura was the talk of the town among runners months before the race.

Almost all runners in almost all running places were preparing for and looking forward to it.

The Condura Run is known for its unusual and challenging route that includes the Skyway. Passing the Skyway by foot doesn’t happen everyday and Condura was the only race that offered the privilege.

I wasn’t completely decided when I registered for Condura. I asked myself a million times if I was ready to run the full. I approached the registration booth, got the form, ticked the 42K box, paid and walked away. I thought I should do it that way so I’d be forced to train.

A week before, I almost backed out especially after hearing about The Bullrunner Dream Marathon program which was then exclusively offered to first time marathoners. Aside from that and lack of training, I thought I should postpone the 42K dream. I asked a few friends for advise and not one of them supported my apprehension.

A few days before, I lost my music player so I borrowed my friend’s i-pod which was huge and heavy. I took the risk of carrying it just to have a source of distraction from hearing me pant and amuse me in that more than 5-hr run. I had the heavy i-pod and enjoyed the music. It was worth it, I thought. But for some strange reasons, it went off at Km5. I tried to fix it but it just gave up on me so I had to carry it the whole time and as soon as I stepped on the finish line mat, it played again. Creepy!

The Skyway experience was ecstatic that until now everytime I see it, I’m brought to a sense of nostalgia.

The sight of runners from the Skyway was so motivating. I met a few runners along the way and had the chance of running with each of them for a few kilometers until either I ran faster or they left me behind. That time, I knew what 42K really meant and why many runners either dream of or dread the full marathon. The experience was incomparable and indescribable.

The last five kilometers was the longest five kilometers of my life. All discomfort and pain cropped up I started asking myself why I was doing it. No one asked me to do it and no law required a Filipino citizen to go through that. I couldn’t find any answer but just the fact that I wanted to do it. I loved the challenge and the fulfillment of finishing it.

When I crossed the finish line, I kind of lost my senses I did not notice my friends who cheered me. I was directed to get my medal and despite being aware that a medal would be given to finishers, I reacted so surprised about the news. I went to the booth where the medals were and while many were arguing why they couldn’t be given their medals because they’re stolen, I just left and went home.

I did not even check my finish time. I was in a state of shock until I got home. I called my housemate on my way home and asked her to meet me at our gate and prepare my slippers. When she picked up the phone, her first question was, “Ano?! Buhay ka pa?!”

To which I said, “I’m still alive. In fact, more alive than before.”

Top 4

The North Face Thrill of the Trail

14 February 2010, Nuvali, Laguna

22K; 2:45

TNF Thrill of the Trail promised a challenging, exciting, “life threatening” race and it certainly offered no less. I’ve always looked forward to trail runs. I even joined one of R.O.X.’s trail run clinics. So when I learned about TNF run, I immediately registered even if it was set a week after the Condura Run when I should be resting to recover.

Some were telling me to just do an 11K but I thought I should take advantage of the rare experience of running a trail. That’s aside from the fact that I had no one to run with in the 11K couple’s run. I registered for 22K and I was happy I did. Trails are a lot more challenging than road runs. The required running skill to avoid injury was different. I tried to enjoy the breath taking scenery while carefully watching each of my steps. I loved every part of the trail especially those two rivers that we crossed and the one where we had to hang in the rope to cross to the other side of the mountain that I had to let go of my beloved Gatorade. Sadly, my hip injury worsened after the run. Even then, I had no regrets I joined the race and still consider it one of my best runs.

Surreal encounter with an Ironwoman

2010-08-29T04:59:00.000-07:00

Plans were the last thing I thought of when I first hit the road running. All I did was respond to that consistent, persistent urge to run and run and run. I did not even think of joining a single race and had no idea about marathons. But things changed in time. Until now, I can’t point out the exact moment when I transitioned from being a leisure runner to a “more serious one” when I began to indulge in the science of running and plan. I don’t know when and why I started surfing the Runner’s World site to look for tips on better running form, exercise, diet, gears, etc. and included visiting The Bullrunner site in my daily routine.

While I was trying to work on my running, I encountered the word, TRIATHLON. Although that was not the first time I heard of it, it sounded more significantly at that time. I still brushed it aside and thought I wasn’t cut for it since I hate water sports and don’t know how to ride a bike. I decided I should concentrate on running first.

But maybe a runner will always be bugged by triathlon. I often encounter it on those sites that I visit, meet triathletes and wannabes in races until I was captured by it too.

It was one of my closest running buddies, Ms. Chu Solano, who’d always talk about triathlon. She wanted us to get into it together so she arranged swimming lessons for us and looked for bikes. Although I was hesitant in the beginning, I’ve to admit that she really reinforced that secret dream of mine. The dream became more alive but still wasn’t enough to move me to take it any further until I met Ms. Monica Torres this morning. She placed 4^th in the 2010 Ironman 70.3 Philippines’ Overall Women’s Division and 1^st among the Filipino women for two consecutive years. I saw her in UP Diliman while I was doing my long run. I was so hypnotized by her presence I stopped running and approached her.

Lactacyd Women Relay with my team mates and Monica (on my right)

I first met her in the Lactacyd Women Relay in June. I was also in awe then but it was different this morning. It felt like seeing her the first time. I had a list of questions in mind when I was walking towards her. I wanted to ask how she prepared for the 70.3, her diet, etc. but none of these came out of my mouth.

Our conversation:

Me: Excuse me. Hi Monica! (note that she was surrounded by almost ten people and they were talking when I approached her.)

Monica: Hi po.

Me: Uhm…

Monica: (staring at me, wondering what I was there for).

Me: Congratulations!

Monica: Thank you.

Me: Uhm.. Monica.. (5 second dead air), pwede magpa picture?

Monica: Opo. Sure po.

(Picture, picture)

With an Ironwoman, Monica

Me: Congratulations ulit. Salamat.

Monica: Salamat po.

Me: (One of the worst extros) Ok. Sige. Bye. (Whaaaat?!?)

Then I started running again. While running, I was smiling at how I behaved around her.

I couldn’t get over that brief encounter that until now I look at our photo once in a while. Everytime I see it, I tell myself that one day, I’ll be like her. Well, not exactly. To be a finisher would be great.

So today marks my iron will to reach that iron dream inspired by an iron girl.

Strike while the iron is hot! ;)

RUNNING CHANGED MY LIFE IN ONE YEAR

2010-08-18T23:04:00.000-07:00

One year! I’ve been running for one year today. Wow!

My first encounter with running is still vivid. A friend of mine invited me to jog in Ateneo after office and I didn’t know that my 15-minute run would turn my world upside down. As I always say, it was really love at first run.

Unlike others, I did not have any strange or dramatic motivation for this passion. I did not have any reason at all when I got into it. I just jumped into that instant passion when I first hit the road. All I knew was I couldn’t contain the attraction I had to act on it. I had no idea about the benefits of running but what I have now are countless reasons why I continue to love it. These are surprises I stumbled on along the way.

Pre-run era

I was hypochondriac and was going through a very difficult time in my life before I discovered running. I succumbed into depression for a couple of months. The nightmare started when I was suspected of having thyroid cancer in 2008. The news sketched worries and fears. I drastically lost weight because of anxiety. The series of laboratory tests also took a toll on my body. And at that point when I needed that place of security and comfort in my life, it was gone. These realities smashed my faith into rabbles leaving me with nowhere to turn to for survival. I groped in the dark that both wanting to live and longing to die both made sense and were non-sense to me. But I woke up one day realizing there was really no other option but for me to face the challenges head on; to accept the possibility of cancer but remain hopeful and embrace the truth that something I tried so hard to keep has died. After a few months, cancer was ruled out. I also began to embrace the willingness to go through the process of healing and letting go.

I slowly got out of the misery and started to see the world with a fresh perspective. I had to unearth virtues and life lessons that were buried by so much pain. It was in this context that running came.

Running to running

Without even trying, running helped me pick up the pieces. It taught me to celebrate life and to thank the Lord for every ounce of strength I have and that life is a gift no matter how tough things could get. I learned that pain is inevitable and it is my call whether to allow it to knock me down or choose to let it bring out the best in me.

Running has also become my place of solitude when I’m overwhelmed with the bustles and hustles of life. I run to running when I need to reflect and heal. I lace up and run immediately after a stressful meeting, a heated debate or just when I need escape from frustrations and keep my sanity. It never fails to give me clarity.

Running did not only introduce me to these things but also to who I really am. I didn’t know what the trick was but I became more aware of myself since I started running especially when I trained for and ran marathons. I discovered my ability to endure pain for the sake of something that makes me really happy, that I could actually commit to something and enjoy the sacrifices it requires to reach a dream. I also learned more about my limits and to accept the fact that there are things beyond my control.

Discipline is another gift that running gave me. It taught me that if I have a dream, I have to want it so badly and work hard for it. There’s been no point in my life than now that I’ve become obsessed with managing my time and making sure that I spend each second wisely. I think it’s because I’ve become more aware of how quick a second passes and that my 5 minutes could go as far as 1 kilometer. Training for a marathon taught me the highest form of discipline. It emphasized the importance of self –control and commitment. It allowed me to enjoy waking up in the morning even if I wanted to remain in bed. It’s enough reason to turn my back from the enticing site and smell of sweets and junk food. One good indicator that I was really into running was when I learned to be satisfied with just one cup of coffee a day when I used to have 4-7 cups. The withdrawal was a lot easier.

Routinely exciting

It also changed my body clock. Since we’re output based in the office and we’re not really required to report at any specific time unless we have meetings or activities, I used to wake up around 7:30-8:00 am. And if I cave in oversleeping, sometimes I’d wake up past 9:00am and then rush to get to the office before lunchtime. Waking up late was usually because I used to work until 2:00-3:00 in the morning.

Now, no matter how late I sleep, I’m up by 5:00-6:00 am and earlier if there are races. I got used to this schedule since I try to have my weekday runs before the scorching heat of the sun. To do this, I also changed my sleeping habit.

I love this routine. I like starting the day early. It provides a different kind of energy that sustains me the entire day. It makes me excited to wake up each day because I’ve something to look forward to.

Looking good

They say that when you seriously engage in any sport, diet follows and I can attest to this. I used not to mind what and how much I eat, but since I considered running a religion, I began to pick food that would make my body stronger so I could run more efficiently.

It also changed the way I look. I noticed I developed muscles here and there, even in my face. When I looked at my pictures before and compared it with my recent photos, I could spot the difference and I liked it. ;)

A whole new world

More than anything, more than the mileage, running has blessed me with new friends and introduced me to more and interesting people. This reminded me that I am never alone and that the world is wider and more wonderful than I thought. Every runner that I encounter has a unique story that taught me lessons I would have not discovered had I chosen to remain in my secluded world.

I could go on listing down the treasures I gained from running.

The past twelve months of conquering different roads with many wonderful people has been one of the best years of my life. It changed my life in ways I never imagined it would.

I loved running then and I still love it no less.

SONA: A declining pace

2010-07-28T03:06:00.000-07:00

When I got injured in the 2010 Milo Marathon, one of the things I asked myself was whether I ran too fast in the beginning of the race that I burned all my energy and had to drag myself to the finish line. It’s a common weakness among runners who get so excited at the sound of the gun start and would want to take advantage of the adrenalin rush. I have that tendency. And even if I’m already in the recovery stage, I could not help but recall that Milo moment while listening to the SONA. I think P.Noy did a good start by choosing to deliver his speech in Filipino and throwing shocking figures that have been kept in the dark. It was good that he finally opened up those books that have been sealed with greed for centuries. It was admirable how he effectively translated concepts of accountability into more tangible terms when he said that those money lost to corruption could have been used to build classrooms, roads, etc. That made me excited. I thought that if he improves or at least maintains that pace in a race, he’d probably have his PR (personal record) but he did not. He declined and he declined terribly.

I had a bad morning that day and the only thing that kept me going was the thought of the SONA. As an anti corruption advocate, I was looking forward to how he’d flesh out his rhetorics on fighting corruption and improving governance during the campaign. I had high expectations not only because he projected himself worthy of it but also because I believe that I deserve no less from any President especially from someone who campaigned on reform and change.

I waited for him to lay down practical ways, concrete steps, realistic mechanisms and sound policies to improve transparency and accountability but I heard very few of these from a President that bragged about his pledge to good governance.

I also hoped that he would reiterate his commitment to the passage of the Freedom of Information bill but silence was the only thing I heard.

Until now, I could not think of any innocent reason why he failed to mention it. In the aftermath of the June 4 tragedy when the 14^th Congress killed the FOI bill, he said in an interview that he’d prioritize its passage. So what happened?

My questions:

If he was so committed to transparency and fighting corruption, then there should be no way he could overlook the passage of this bill as a necessary component of that.
If he was able to mention other bills like the Witness Protection Program and the Whistleblower’s Act as important pieces of legislation in intensifying the fight against corruption, why not the FOI bill which by far has more direct impact on anti corruption?
If he’s someone who keeps his word, as he projects himself to be, why did he not fulfill his commitment to the people in his June 4 or 5 interview?
Did he completely disregard the appeal of more than 160 civil society organizations from the Right to Know. Right Now! network that sent him a letter, few days before the SONA, appealing for the inclusion of the passage of the bill in his priority agenda?
What's the real deal, Sir?

There were other parts of the SONA that did not sit well with me like the proposed amendment of the Procurement Act and the public-private partnership as one of his major policies to raise funds. I was also hoping he’d say something about land reform, environment. But the biggest blow for me was the FOI bill. Not that this would totally block the bill but his mention would have put more weight on the necessity and urgency of passing it. That would have sent a clear and strong message to the legislature that it’s his priority and would have placed the bill first in the agenda of both houses.

When CSOs lost the battle in the 14^th Congress, everyone tried to comfort us by saying that the coming Congress will be a walk in the park considering the pronouncements of a President who has more integrity than the previous one but yesterday’s SONA painted a different picture. It led us to go back to the drawing board and prepare for an equally or even more challenging battle.

The first words that came out of my mouth after the last applause were, “why?! how?! and shoot!!!”

The SONA left me hanging, to say the least. I was beyond frustrated I did a 10K run after. But unlike the SONA, I increased pace slowly to avoid another injury.

Photo:http://wwnn.co.uk/pnoy-sona-2010-english-translation-of-pres-benigno-s-aquino-iiis-state-of-the-nation-address/2054/

The Flexitarian Runaholic's Pledge

2010-07-12T03:58:00.000-07:00

Running is enough reason to wake me up very early in the morning, miss a good sleep, lace up and travel to as far as Bonifactio High Street from Quezon City to join races. But what motivates me more is the fact that by doing this, the thing that I truly enjoy, I also get the chance to extend help to the beneficiaries of these races. This is why I am so proud of my TBR Dream Marathon classmate and friend, Kassy (a.k.a.Flexitarian Runaholic) who thought of making her Standard Chartered Marathon- Singapore in December more significant by doing it for cause. It's admirable how she has taken the initiative to find a beneficiary and exert all efforts to make this happen. The least I can do is help her spread her call. Below is her invitation to all of us.

On 5 December 2010, I will be running a FULL MARATHON (42.2 km) in the Standard Chartered Marathon – Singapore in order to raise money for the Maple Tree Foundation. Although it will be a challenge for me to complete my first destination marathon race, I will be especially motivated by the excitement of knowing that it will benefit such a worthy cause.

I am asking friends and family to consider sponsoring me for this event. I have two ambitious goals – first to complete the marathon without sustaining any bodily harm and second to meet my personal goal of raising Php 10,000 – Php 100,000 for the Maple Tree Foundation (100%). I would greatly appreciate your kind consideration by making a donation towards this goal. All other form of donations (sponsorship) is, of course, well appreciated.

Being a runner, I wanted to take the opportunity to help my fellow citizen as this is one of my life goals- to help those who are in need. I believe in Maple Tree Foundation vision which is to help deprived and underserved mountain communities live healthy, productive, and peaceful lives with sustainable resource development programs that provide basic services, livelihood development, and education. For this, they need not to stay as less privilege citizen around Manila believing it will make their lives easier, well in fact, in their home town they can live comfortably and be educated.

You can make a difference . . . please join me in supporting a very important cause. Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,
Kassy

Note:
Please make all checks out to the Ma Katrina T Pajarillo and mail it to

Account# 3219 0081 89

Bank of the Philippines Island , Las Pinas branch

El Grande cor. Aguirre Ave., Ph. III BF Homes, Philippines, 1740

34th Milo National Marathon: Slow down, Reylynne

2010-07-05T02:20:00.000-07:00

What went wrong? I kept asking myself this question for more than an hour when I was walking to the 34th National Milo Marathon finish line.

I heard a snap in my left hip between Km22 and 23 followed by an excruciating pain down to my left knee. In my previous posts I mentioned the same problem when I joined the Condura Marathon and the Nature Valley Run. I've made an illusion that it abandoned me already but it seems to enjoy being a consistent running buddy. I could hardly move my knee halfway to the finish but I still tried to run. I ignored it and kept running until it became unbearable at Km 32. I felt like it was breaking into pieces. An ambulance passed by and I thought of getting in it but my pride was saying I should finish no matter what and I did.

It was the first time that I cried because of throbbing pain in a race and I rarely cry because of physical pain. I have high tolerance for it so when I begin to cry that means it really is piercing. At that point, I needed nothing but a hug. I looked for anyone I know who was not running but did not find any so I just hugged myself J

I spent the entire walk trying to figure out what went wrong and reflecting on what happened.

1. Did I start out too fast?

No. Unlike in the TBR Dream Marathon, my start was easy. I stuck to my plan of maintaining a comfortable race pace. I promised myself I wouldn’t sprint and wouldn’t be intimidated by other runners going ahead of me. I ran with Kuya Lito Lopez, one of my TBR DM Kuyas from the start line until Km 15. It was an easy and comfortable run. When he decided to run faster to try to meet their qualifying time, I did not dare run his pace. It was all going well. When I reached Km22, it was 1:45. That was a PR for my 21K but I was still confident I wasn’t going off too fast because I did not feel any discomfort. I also did not do any extra push so I kept that pace until I heard that killer snap.

2. Did anything happen lately that worsened my scoliosis?

I could not think of any but maybe. I’ve been suffering from scoliosis since high school. My left leg is longer than the other so it takes the greater impact when I run. Being aware of this, I try as much as possible to be kinder to my left knee. I also tried to slow down on down hills to minimize the impact. I was so conscious about this while I was doing the race. So when we were going up and down on flyovers along Roxas Boulevard I’d slow down.

My week was stressful in terms of work and this was the only thing I could suspect to be causing the stress on my back but I had more stressful days before the TBR Dream Marathon and it did not weign on me at all. So this attribution might not be appropriate. I also continued swimming, which they say is good for scoliosis. But although nothing has worsened it, it also did not get any better.

3. Did I make any wrong step in the course?

Maybe. I think that at one point when I tried to avoid a motorcycle when we were about to enter Macapagal Bldv from Roxas Blvd, I made a slightly wrong step and felt something on my knees. But I really don’t think it was that bad and if it were the cause, I would have felt the effect immediately but I did not.

4. Did I not train enough?

I really don’t know but as far as the training program that Coach Jim gave us, I just trained well enough. I did my weekly runs and the required long runs at specific weeks before the race. I tried so hard to squeeze those in my schedule. I also maintained a healthy diet.

5. Did I overtrain?

I don’t think so. I behaved very well the past week that even if I wanted so much to run I did not. I had to tell myself it’s taper time and avoided places where I’d see runners so I wouldn’t be tempted to run. I also did not go beyond the required mileage, etc.

6. Was it because it was too close from my recent May marathon?

Maybe. Among all the reasons I could possibly consider, this I think makes the most sense. I overestimated myself. I thought that I could do a back–to-back marathon given my scoliosis. I thought that training well enough would do the trick but it obviously did not. Maybe for others this is not a big deal but for someone with special condition like me, this is not so.

Aside from analyzing the cause of the injury, I also spent time reflecting and praying. One word was recurring- humility.

They say that if you want to get to know yourself better, you should run a marathon. Yesterday’s race revealed a lot of things about who I am now. Sadly, they’re not delightful. I discovered that I am not only engrossed with running but in winning, worse, I’ve become more captivated by winning than running itself . While I believe that it’s good to be driven to win, I found out that I have crossed the border to insanity and arrogance. I wanted so much to reach my target and break my own record I did not leave any room for failure and possibilities beyond my control. It hurt me more than anything else. Arrogance consumed me and maybe the injury was God’s way of humbling me. It was his way of screaming to my ear to slow down and be kinder to my body.

To be honest, it was not just the pain on my knees that caused me suffering but my wounded ego. It was so hard for me to see myself walking towards the finish line. The thought of it was dreadful, being in it was for me humiliating. I was oozing with arrogance that even if my body was telling me to slow down, I still attempted to run. I refused to recognize the distinction between the pain that I could and should outrun and that one that I should entertain. I spent every ounce of will I had to ignore it but it was building up and persistent I couldn’t simply brush it aside.

I mentioned in my recent post that it’s a challenge for runners to be humble enough and accept that at some point we should stop to avoid a disaster. This was the challenge I came to face to face with yesterday. Walking is not a crime. Sometimes, it’s the wisest and noblest thing to do than to push it too hard.

I had to embrace the sad truth that I probably did all these too much, too soon; that I should have given more time for my next marathon after the TBR Dream Marathon. When I thought I was strong enough to run another full this soon with my scoliosis not getting any better, I was wrong. I should have listened to my body when it was telling me to reconsider Milo during my training.

There are things that mind cannot overcome and overrule. I should go back to the reason why I got into running and fell in love with it. It was how it contributed to my journey and struggle to becoming a better person each day. It’s so sad that I messed that up and became someone I hate now. I regret those times when I was so preoccupied with a PR I missed enjoying the run itself. I failed to see the fact that the glass is half full than empty; that I was able to cross the finish line yesterday before the cut off alive.

The worst thing was I almost did not notice my TBR classmates cheering me along the way and my whole family waiting at the finish line because I was so caught up with the sight of the finish banner. When they called and cheered me up, I gained an extra ordinary strength I tried to run strongly dedicated to them. They actually ran with me towards the finish and when we crossed it together, I felt so secured that even I failed and hated myself to the grave, I was assured of their love and support. I apologized for making them wait for so long since I told them I’d see them early. But they did not mind. My mom almost cried when she saw the pain on my face and could hardly walk. My daddy kept on asking if I really had to do it. My brother and his wife decided they will start running too. My nephew and niece, Vince and Shan embraced me and were giggling when they saw me. This to me was priceless. It was better than anything else in the world. It reminded me of what matters most in life, the things I truly value and who I really am.

Now I have set new targets – recover from injury, heal my soul and rediscover the reason for my passion for running and how it should affect who I am. There is ONLY one way to get there- SLOW DOWN.

EXCHANGING NOTES

2010-06-19T06:50:00.000-07:00

I am no extra ordinary runner. I don’t think that my finish in the TBR Dream Marathon makes me any different or better than anyone. Not at all. I am just like other runners or marathoners who love running. I also don’t claim any expertise in training. I have no authority, not a bit to talk about, much more, give advise on how to train for a marathon. I am nothing of that sort. Not even close to that. This entry does not in anyway intend to give an advise. This is for a few friends who were asking about my training for the TBR Dream Marathon.

I am not saying that what I did was the best. Maybe some of the things I did was wrong. At the very least, I just hope to offer something to go on; a basis for further inquiry on whether this is how it should have been done or not and help. The only thing I’m sure was right was the training program given by Coach Jim Lafferty who’s had a vast experience in running marathons and training countless marathoners. I wasn't sure if the modifications I did to his program was right, I just took the risk. Maybe I had a better finish if I did not.

Again, this is just a statement of fact in response to questions from some friends. This is not an advise. If you discovered that some of the things I did were wrong, I’d appreciate a feedback. I'd also love to hear about your training.

When I joined the Condura Marathon, I did not follow any training program except maintaining my 3x a week run composed of speed work (faster than my race pace), race pace and long run. But as to how fast was fast or how many rounds I should do fartlek, I did not know. I also did not know how long should my long run be at what week, etc. I checked some websites and tried to follow some prescribed programs but they were many. So I just made sense out of a hodge podge of information from all over. That was it.

I asked other marathoners and each one gave me different programs. What I did was pick up the most common, like getting the average in statistics, which was the importance of long runs. It was still confusing. Some said I should do 32K two weeks before while others said I should taper that time. I just tried to analyze which one would work for me and because I was a first time marathoner, it was like a blind leading another.

Come marathon day, I finished. I was happy but I suffered from injuries. I dragged myself to the finish line and could hardly move after the race. So the TBR Dream Marathon was really a blessing. When I saw the kind of support being offered to the participants I even hesitated joining Condura so I could qualify as a first time marathoner when it was still exclusively for first timers. I was excited that there would be consistent and expert support, a detailed program and a series of discussions, things I was groping for when I planned to run my first marathon.

When TBR opened it for second timers, I rushed to register. I religiously followed the 16-week training program given by Coach Jim. I added 10-15 minutes to the prescribed weekly runs and 15-20 minutes to the long runs. I also inserted fartlek to one of the weekly runs. The reason for the modification was to push myself harder, nothing scientific, whatever. Maybe it was because of the desire to redeem myself from the not so good marathon experience.

Here was my typical training week like:

Monday: Rest day. In the morning, after light breakfast I do a routine at home: stretching, core strengthening exercises, planks, push ups, stretching, light weight.

Tuesday: Fartlek/ interval run. I go to a track and field oval and try to finish the 400m under 1 minute and then easy recovery run around the 400m oval under 3 minutes. I increased the number of rounds weeks closer to marathon day. From the minimum of five to maximum of twelve. There were days when I planned to do 7 or 8 but did less because of tiredness, etc. Some I did in the morning, others were in the evening after office.

Wednesday: Core strengthening routine. Swimming at least 45 minutes.

Thursday: Race pace. Morning/ evening. I run as fast and as comfortable as I could. It’s really my comfortable pace and then I push beyond my threshold every time until the faster pace becomes comfortable, and so on and so forth. When the program said I should run at least 45 minutes, I’d do an hour. It’s always plus 10-15 minutes. Six weeks before the marathon, I increased my minimum to 12K.

Friday: Core strengthening routine. Swimming at least 45 minutes.

Saturday: Short and easy run or swim. I don’t push myself too hard on Saturdays because that’s my only time to oversleep and recover from the week’s tasks .Also because it’s a day before the races and long runs.

Sunday: Long runs. As Coach Jim said, this is the lifeblood of running a marathon so I tried not to miss this one. I could miss one of my weekday runs but not my long run. Since it was summer and there were weekends when I was out of town and could not do a long run, I’d do short runs in the beach or where I was and then did my long runs the soonest I got back to Manila.

Running 21K in races also became my long runs. If there’s none, I’d still try to hit at least 21K with Runnex people in UP Diliman.

When the training program said I should do 28K, I pushed it to 34K. I did that a month before and did 32K three weeks before.

I did something crazy 2 weeks before the marathon when I should be tapering. I ran with a friend who was training for the Singapore Sundown Marathon at 11pm until 4am in the morning. We were alone inside the UP Campus. We both wanted to do a simulation of the marathons we were joining. Since the TBR Dream Marathon’s gunstart was 2am, I thought it was good to get a feel of how my body would perform without sleep around that time. We had a lot of walks especially me because I knew I should be in taper mode. We were able to complete 26K in UP. Since my friend was trying to complete 32K three weeks before the Sundown, she joined me in TBR last Bull Session in High Street at 5am. From UP, we quickly went home and changed, had breakfast on our way to The Fort and ran without sleep.

I knew it was a risk but I think it helped me during the race.

Given the demands of my work and my other responsibilities at home, it was hard to squeeze in training. It meant waking up really, really early so I could get to the office the earliest possible during weekdays and save up energy to be able to spend quality time with family and friends on weekends. It also meant giving up late night activities that I enjoy doing like reading and watching DVDs so I could get enough sleep.

What helped me was that strong determination to run the marathon strong and fast. I wanted it so badly that I enjoyed the necessary sacrifices.

The discipline required to run a marathon was tough and the only thing that sustained me was my passion and respect for running.

I hope this helps.

THE ADVOCATE IS RUNNING THROUGH PAIN

2010-06-07T01:25:00.000-07:00

I prepared for The Bullrunner Dream Marathon for almost four months. It was four months of letting go of late night activities that I enjoy doing like watching DVDs or reading a good book so I could get enough sleep. I avoided sweets and junk food to remain healthy and strong. It was four months of embracing the highest form of discipline that even if there were times that I did not feel like running I forced myself so I could complete the required mileage. I also had to let go of oversleeping, lace up and run early so I could go to the office the earliest possible. And even if I did not like swimming a lot, I did it regularly for my cross training. Somehow, I can say that a big part of my world in those four months revolved around training for the marathon. My only prayer then was that nothing happens to my family and loved ones because I’d gladly miss the race if ever. Only that could stop me. Nothing else.

And what would I do if after that long training, someone stopped me at Km 41 when I already had a glance of the finish line telling me that I could no longer go on because the pair of socks I was wearing was uneven or my cap was not black?

I’d probably shout at the top of my lungs stunned of the absurdity and argue or cry like there’s no tomorrow because of being helpless.

Even if none of that happened during the marathon, I had the same sense of frustration when the Freedom of Information bill was not ratified by the House of Representatives last 4 June 2010 because of lack of quorum. Before going to Congress that day, I ran 10K in UP Diliman even if I was only planning to do a 7K in Amoranto track and field oval. I decided to go to UP because I needed more space to breathe and more distance to run my angsts off about the news I got the night before that the House leadership tried to stop Congressmen from attending the June 4 session so there’d be no quorum.

I was crying at many points in my run. I was wrestling against hopelessness and hanging on. I chose to surrender to God’s sovereignty. I believe He’s alive. The righteous God sees all these. I had to accept the fact, no matter how bitter, that there are things beyond our control and all I could do was give my best so that there would be no what ifs in the end.

I embraced the advocacy as my own and gave everything I could to help that’s why it meant a lot to me. It was more than just a job. It has become fundamental to who I am and something that I can do without.

The ratification of the House is one of the last steps in passing the Freedom of Info legislation that has been pushed by several groups, mine included, for the past 12 years. This is the closest that we got to having it passed. If Congress ratified the bill that they already approved in May 2008, it would have been submitted to the Office of the President for signing into law, the last step that would have put an end to the hideous struggle of the Filipinos against bureaucracy’s culture and practice of secrecy.

Although Art. III, Sec. 7 of the Philippine Constitution assures us of our right to information and documents on matters of public concern, the government still capitalized on their power and discretion to withhold most documents. The implication of this non- disclosure has resulted in major national controversies such as the ZTE-NBN deal, Fertilizer scam, among others. For others, it meant their and their family’s lives. Farmers, for instance, were kept in the dark about the status of cases involving the lands they till in relation to the Agrarian Reform program of the government. The importance of this bill cannot be underscored. It’s the best tool to promote transparency and the best weapon of the people for more appropriate participation.

But this power sharing through the enactment of the FOI bill is something that this government could not bear. They dread the day when their shenanigans will be revealed and suffer the consequences of all that they did in the dark. The conspiracy last June 4 appeared to be the culmination of their grand plan to block the passage of the FOI bill and the continuous curtailment of the people’s right to know.

June 4 was the make or break or day. I, together with my colleagues in the Right to Know. Right Now! campaign went to Batasan and sat at the gallery. I was tensed. I had the same exact feeling when I was about to do my first marathon. But I chose to hope. It had to be a deliberate effort to see beyond the circumstances that tell us there is none. We needed to convince ourselves that a miracle was possible; that Congress, no matter how low they got as we’ve seen it, could probably give in to the people’s clamor expressed through a series of mobilizations or could possibly have even a bit of conscience in their hearts or slightest sense of shame after being condemned by the media.

But we were wrong. They were in their usual wicked attitude. They staged a drama, a bad drama with the lousiest script ever written. Obviously, Congress through Cong. Romulado tried to make Nograles look innocent and supportive of the ratification after consistent public condemnation, media editorials from both local and abroad. Nograles, according to Romualdo begged him, on his knees to withdraw the opposition filed by Romualdo against the ratification. He was babbling with non-sense about the quorum when in fact they could ratify the bill even without the quorum as they did in the past. Worse, there should have been a quorum because some were present inside the plenary hall but were noted absent.

The 12 years of hard work, sleepless nights, restless days, sweat and tears, thoughts and reflections, dreams and aspirations were swept away by the simple banging of the gavel declaring a non- quorum in the house. That was it. Reality slapped me.

I went out of the session hall together with the other advocates, shocked and crying. I wailed like an infant because of so much pain.

Until now I’m at a loss for words to describe how devastating it was for me. I still groan. I’ve been in a state of depression for the past days. I tried to cope by running almost a half marathon last Sunday even if it was raining just to release my indignation, otherwise, it will consume me and lead me to either apathy or insanity.

The advocate is injured. It felt like the cramps at Km30 in the TBR Dream Marathon or my scolisis at Km 35 in the Condura Marathon or the acid reflux and knee injury during my recent Nature Valley run. But my record tells me I was able to finish those races despite the injuries. I should go on because running taught me that pain is part of the package, I just have to be wise and strong to overcome it because it’s not constant.

I’m running through pain now, trying to cope with grief over the kind of legislature and government that we have and with so much anger against those who continue to make a fool of the entire nation, greedy of power and money at the expense of other people’s lives and welfare. The fight continues. I will not dignify evil by any sense of hopelessness.

I just tell myself the course is longer than I thought and that sight of the finish line is just one of the major turns so I should not stop. Not now.

I realized I registered for an ultra marathon and not a just a 42K. I am so decided to finish it. There's no turning back. See you at the finish line!

My Nature Valley Run story: To run or not to run

2010-05-31T20:39:00.000-07:00

“Should I continue running or should I just stop?”

This was the loud argument in my mind during the Nature Valley Run last Sunday. I registered for 21K. I missed it. It’s been a while since I joined the 21K category.

I was in High Street as early as 3:30 am. I was so excited I even told my friend not to bring the car so we wouldn’t have to worry about parking which might delay us like the last Century Tuna run. We took pictures, ate banana and had Gatorade. Before I headed to the start line, I met a TBR DM classmate who was running 10K. At the start line, I met two other TBR DM classmates who thought 21K would be easy for me because I finished our marathon with a good time. I said no because really each race for me is always like the first time.

I was very excited. I did not set any target. I just wanted to enjoy the run. It was a very relaxing pre run feel.

So why did I think of quitting?

Reason #1: ACID REFLUX

After running the first five kilometers, I felt a sudden pain in my stomach which has been bothering my runs last week. It was an acid reflux. A problem I used to have. Now, it’s making a grand come back. I wanted to vomit several times while running. It made me feel dizzy. My hands were starting to get cold.

Assault: I just drank water and had gel. I suspected it was the acid from Gatorade and insufficient pre-race meal. That morning I ate less than what I usually have. That’s the same theory I had in my recent runs.

Lesson: I should be more disciplined with my diet. Since I started to maintain my weight and was eating less than before, I realized that my stomach could not contain heavy eating anymore. While I thought that it was good, I think I kind of exaggerated it. I probably, without being deliberate, was eating less than my usual diet. Being too busy with other responsibilities also made eating in regular intervals impossible. I had several hungers causing the reflux.

Reason #2: NUMBING ARMS

Maybe because of the acid reflux, my arms were slowly numbing at Km5. It was a strange feeling. I felt like it’s starting to get cold as well. I could hardly swing it.

Assault: I swayed it repeatedly and allowed the blood to flow.

Lesson: Since I suspected that it was due to the stomach problem, diet is also the solution.

Reason #3: HEAD ACHING

This is a confession. I ran without enough sleep. At about the same time when I had the acid reflux, I also began to gasp for air. My head was aching and floating. My legs could hardly move. I usually rest the whole day before a race especially if I’m joining half or full marathon but not last Saturday.

I was not getting enough sleep the entire week last week because of too much work and frustration about what’s happening in Congress. I made it worse by attempting to run with friends last Saturday morning. We set it at 6:00 am. I knew I shouldn’t do it since Saturday was my only time to oversleep. I gambled and still said yes. I set the alarm clock at 4:30 am and attempted to get up but I couldn’t. But because something was set, I couldn’t go back to deep sleep anymore. That’s me. I have a hard time saying no to invitations.

So the Friday sleep was bad. I should have tried to recover by resting but I could not. I had to attend to a family duty which I was happy I did. That’s something I never set aside. For me, it’s always family first. I actually still had enough time to rest after that thing with my family but I went out with friends. It was important for me as well. I wanted so much to be with my friends and catch up. And because I’m one person who wants to be able to do everything, I went out with them and even if I could go home earlier, I chose to stay late.

Assault: Nothing. I thought coffee could do the trick but it did not. I just filled my system with more caffeine from gels.

Lesson: Take rest and sleep as serious as training. No gimmicks before race day.

Reason #4: KNEE INJURY

If you saw me during the run, you must have noticed the pain in my face. It was so obvious I was biting my lips because it was so excruciating. It's an injury caused by my scoliosis at the lower back. My left leg is longer so it takes most of the pressure when running. I usually have it immediately after but never during long runs and it disappears the following day. When I ran the TBR Marathon last week I felt the pain while running but it was tolerable unlike yesterday. When we reached the Buendia flyover, it hit me. I thought my left knee was going to break into pieces. I could hardly move it. I almost screamed.

Assault: I walked to give my running muscles some rest and placed ice on it. I ran slow and easy until I felt it was better.

Lesson: Have it checked. Don’t be afraid to hear the doctor say I should get some rest, etc. Maybe do more strengthening exercises both for my knees and back.

Reason#5: TERRIBLE SATURDAY

I had a bad Saturday. My friend and I went to the gym for swimming. On our way there, we hit something and had to have the car fixed. As if that stress was not enough, another terrible thing happened.

After swimming, we decided to go to a car wash station. I left my bag in a chair beside us, stood up and checked the car. After 10 seconds, a man in his motorbike passed by and snatched my bag. I lost all my swimming stuff, worse including my TBR marathon finisher’s shirt. It was a lost investment. Our house key was also lost so we were worried the snatcher might be able to trace where we live. Although I was able to convince myself to let go, I felt that it was weighing on me while running.

Assault: Let go. There are things I have no control over. I tried to focus on the bright side that it was not the other bag where more valuables were that was snatched.

Lesson: Be more careful.

I had many walks compared to my previous 21Ks but I had to do it to sustain my energy until the finish line. Yes, I ran through pain because I knew I could still do it. I was sure my body could still take the pain otherwise I wouldn’t mind quitting to avoid a greater disaster. The decision to go on was a calculated risk. I carefully listened to my body more than that voice called pride telling me that quitting is only for losers. I think that the wisdom to discern when to stop or go is a constant challenge for runners. I believe that to stop if pain spells a greater, long term tragedy is as noble as having the strength and motivation to surpass the pain until the finish.

I was happy I did not quit and heard my body right. I hope that when I find myself in the same situation, I’d still be able to decide with wisdom and strength to go on and humility and courage to stop.

But all these ordeals were replaced with joy because of two surprises- a 2:05 finish and a pint of delicious Haagen Dazs ice cream. :)

My thank you letter to THE BULLRUNNER

2010-05-26T01:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Jaymie,

They say that what's more important is not the destination but the journey. My TBR Dream Marathon proved this true.

Until now, I am still overwhelmed with extreme joy everytime I think of the TBR Dream Marathon. When I talk about it with friends and other runners, I don't talk about my finish but the experience. Although I was happy with my finish, what was more significant was the atmosphere during the run. I liked it that there was no competition or anything of the sort. All of us, while journeying towards the fulfillment of each of our dreams, were also journeying alongside each other. Everyone wanted nothing but to see everyone cross the finish line without any injury. We'd all encourage each other along the way and that was so amazing. I felt humbled to be with the rest of the runners who were so driven to fulfill their dreams. When I had cramps at Km30 and could hardly run, what encouraged me aside from the cheerers and my two buddies was the motivation that I saw in the eyes of my classmates. I felt not only that we were a community of dreamers but a family. We celebrated each other's victory and sympathized and helped each other, including the volunteers and chasers, in times of pain.

I could not stop talking about the marathon. I told my running friends that it was the best race ever, with all the support and very organized logistics, I could not think of anything better.

Although my family was not able to join me in Nuvali, they celebrated with me in finishing my second marathon. It was big deal for them because it proved once again how strong and healthy I am unlike last year when I was suspected of having thyroid cancer. The first quarter of 2009 was one of my darkest moments. As a breadwinner, I dreaded hearing that news that I might have cancer. The fear of who'd take care of my family and all set in. It was also the time when I went through another personal experience that made me so depressed. That time, I was drowned with the desire to live and to die at the same time. I went through several tests that weakened my body to rule out the big C. After a few months, thank God it was negative. Thank God I discovered running and got the chance to be part of the first TBR Dream Marathon :)

When close friends asked me about my secret on how I was able to finish the marathon faster than the first one, I told them it was because of the two running buddies who pushed me beyond my limits and kept me company from Km 21 to the finish line. I first came across Kuya Lito who requested me to pace him. I said yes but warned him that I might ruin his target time. He said his target was 4:00, I told him mine was only sub-5. But he said ok. So we ran a kilometer together and met Kuya Brian. I did not know what his target time was but he decided to join us or Kuya Lito and I decided to join him.

I learned that Kuya Lito was a competing runner during his high school days but stopped due to a doctor's advise who said he could not run anymore because his knees could no longer handle it. So he set aside running for quite a while but decided to reunite with it recently and proved his doctor wrong. Kuya Brian, on the other hand, is a runner and a cyclist. The TBR Dream Marathon was their first.

After running a few kilometers together, I told them to just go ahead because cramps wanted to join the TBR Dream Marathon too :) It was so painful I wanted to stop and just walk the rest of the race. But they stayed with me and helped me deal with it until it's gone. They encouraged me to keep on running. They jogged with me not minding how it would affect their target time. They'd also remind me to slow down on downhills after I told them I have scoliosis which was why I had a bad run during Condura. In short, I had new-found Kuyas who took good care me and were more conscious than I was that I be the first woman finisher. I loved the way we fulfilled our promise that whatever happens we'd cross the finish line together. When Kuya Lito was feeling the pain in his knees and asked us to run ahead, we also did not leave him. We walked with him so his knees could get some rest. Kuya Brian was the strongest among us. After crossing the 32 km post, he started to coach us until the finish line. He'd tell us when to stop to rest and when to run at what pace so we could finish well. He even reminded us to fix up as we were approaching the finish line so we'd look good on camera :)

I heard him say countless times that pain was just in the mind and I realized he was right.

I owe that strong and fast finish to them, to my classmates, to the volunteers and organizers, to Coach Jim and to you :)

In this run, I gained not just a wonderful medal and finisher's shirt, loot bag and souvenirs but also fresh perspective and friends.

I don't know how to thank you enough.

Reylynne

THE “GODS” ARE DEAD

2010-05-04T04:29:00.000-07:00

Independence is the soul of the judiciary. I strongly believe this, therefore I think that this Supreme Court is dead.

The dismissal of the Motion for Reconsideration of the Supreme Court decision allowing the President to appoint a Chief Justice despite the constitutional ban made the judiciary suffer death twice.

I am immensely disappointed with this move by the same justices that lambasted the sanctity of the constitution in honor of lies and twisted logic in their decision that the appointment ban does not cover the judiciary even if the Constitution does not say so. The moment they inked the word “FINAL” in their decision on the motion for reconsideration, they also engraved another count of shame in the tombstone of the court.

But I am not surprised that the Court has let go of the opportunity to redeem itself and insisted on the correctness of their decision despite sound arguments from legal luminaries and overwhelming public outrage. The Court, as revealed in the recent public interview of candidates for the Chief Justice view public opinion irrelevant and irreverent.

While I agree that it is from the Constitution that the decision of the Supreme Court emanates, I disagree in the extreme disregard of public opinion especially from framers of the Constitution in such a time as this when the political climate that surrounds the issue is highly controversial. This poses the danger of having a court that embodies tyranny and self- righteousness.

The dismissal of the Motion for Reconsideration and the recent public interview exposed many repugnant faces of the Supreme Court including its absurd understanding of judicial independence that manifested in their recent actions.

The absurdity of the Court’s decision that set aside existing jurisprudence on the same issue has unearthed the politics and vested interests that maneuvered it. Considering the political context of the decision, I could not help but believe the speculations that the Court, while has chosen to be independent of public view and scrutiny, has opened its doors so widely to the possibility of escalating perception that it is controlled not by their conscience or the Constitution, as they claim but by the one that gave them the space in the High Court.

And while it can be said that the legal battle is over when the motion for reconsideration was dismissed, CSOs stand firm on its ground that midnight appointments is prohibited by the Constitution, therefore continues to impugn the decision of the Supreme Court.

People may be wounded but we do not grow numb and we will never be silenced by the repeated mischief of the Supreme Court. Unlike the court, we are still alive and we say, “HISTORY WILL JUDGE US, dead or alive.”

Post Script: My first midnight (organized) run was the one on this issue. I had fun running the frustration off along with almost a hundred "zombie" runners

RUNNING OUT OF FRIENDS? RUN!

2010-04-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

I never thought that an ordinary day in August last year would turn my life upside down when a close friend of mine invited me to jog in Ateneo. Toix should be blamed for how much addicted I am now to running. If not for her, I would have not discovered the wonder of running and would still be as depressed before.

After that momentous night in Ateneo, Toix and I started running regularly and with regularly I mean, everyday. Since we have flexible time in the office and our work sometimes extends until midnight, we would run at 1:00 a.m. to avoid a run-less day . In hindsight, it was insane that we were oblivious of the world and the harm that might come upon us. But I miss those crazy days when we're alone in the entire campus plus maybe the ones that we didn’t see with our naked eyes but we felt and heard.

Toix and I still run together once in a while and whatever happens to this running “career” of mine, I’d always be thankful to Toix not just for her sincere and genuine friendship but also for introducing me to running that led me to meeting new friends like Jaimie Dy. I’ve known Jaimie way before I started running. We’re acquaintances satisfied with hi and hello until I discovered that she too is a runner. Since then, we'd have long chats about races, running shoes, running coach, running here, running there, running everywhere. When I lost all my running stuff last year, Jaimie was one of the few who understood how devastating it was. So, she not only comforted me, she was also kind enough to lend me one of her running shoes. If not for Jaimie, maybe until now I’m still stuck with my little, confined world. She was the one who introduced me to The Bullrunner where I discovered about more races and the bigger, vibrant running community including a clinic sponsored by Runnex where I gained not only better running skills but more friends as well.

Runnex people are warm. They welcomed and encouraged me the first time I was there to attend the sessions regularly. But there was one who really spent time talking to me asking me about my plans and invited me to join the Quezon City International Marathon. She was running her first half marathon then so was I. After a few minutes of being acquainted, she did not hesitate to invite me to train with her in preparation for our first half. We exchanged numbers and started texting since then. She’d remind me of my singlet, ask me if I already had my gu gel, etc. We ran the first kilometers of the QCIM together and a number of other races after.

Ms. Chuchu is inspiring! She’s not as young as I am but her passion is a lot greater than mine. I see that glow in her eyes and hear a strong sense of enthusiasm in her voice everytime she talks about running.

On our way to one of the races, for instance, we talked about wanting to become triathletes. Although I was serious about it, I didn’t pay much attention to details. I thought that it couldn't be soon anyway since I had zero knowledge on swimming and biking. What I didn’t know was that Ms. Chu already made arrangements with a tri-coach for us. Few days after that race, she informed me of our swimming lessons and I just found myself dipped in a pool and now actually swimming and loving it. Before, I wouldn’t find time to swim and would make excuses to miss our lessons until Ms. Chu pushed me. Without her, I’d still be avoiding the water and would not get closer to our tri-dream.

I enjoy being around her. I love her energy! Her passion is an inspiration but her kindness and generosity are greater gifts I treasure as Ate Dee’s.

Like Ms. Chu, Ate Dee has become more than just a running buddy to me. I feel so at home around her. It started when we frequently run alongside each other during long runs in the Runnex clinic. There we'd talk about running and our (non-running) selves. While I cherish all my runs with her, I will not forget the race in Corregidor where we really talked and that long run in U.P. before the New Year when we indulged in the serenity and beauty of the campus together.

Ate Dee has become a textmate and a source of strength against fears of joining some races especially my first marathon. I’d run to her for support since she’s already a marathoner and she’s always been there to encourage me. And when I was having second thoughts about doing the Condura Marathon, she was one of those who cheered me and helped me boost my confidence. I admire Ate Dee’s passion and dedication not just in running but in everything she does. We’ve run a few times together and I always look forward to running and talking with her.

Toix, Jaimie, Ms. Chu and Ate Dee are the first people I text after each race to celebrate a PR with or grieve over a bad run.

I know that more people will be added to my list of friends as I continue to run because in running, you will never run out of friends.