Thursday, January 31, 2008

Something just isn't right

Woke up this morning and tried to do an arm pull and realised the pain was pretty intense. So, decided to skip a day of swimming. And the whole day just felt weird after that. Funny how i've only been swimming consistenly for 3 days solid, when i miss one day, or knowing that i would not be swimming today and its not my rest day, i was super duper uncomfortable. Guess thats how good or bad habits are formed. So today i learnt that i all i have to do is start something and stick to it. After 3 days, it'll feel like i never missed a beat.
So, since i was up early and there was no swimming, and running training was at night, and i had nothing on till lunch appointment, decided to hop down and pamper myself to a nice massage. Boy was it solid! Was a little painful at the start, but as the hour wore on, i began to relax a lot more and i didn't even know i was sore at certain places until after the rub down. And i didn't realize just how tired i have been. How my muscles were actually aching. So i guess the break from swimming was worth it.
Went to work after that. Spent the afternoon distracted coz not sure if i wanted to go for training in the evening. My shins are acting up AGAIN. But after careful consideration, plus the fact that i felt already quite bad for not swimming, i decided to JUST DO IT. hee..
So, i went for training and ran 5km. The only good news for the day was i did it in 29min and 33s. Which means i've finally gone under 30mins for 5km. Which means also, this is my current personal best. Then again, training curves have always been exponential. Always great improvement up front, and it just gets harder after that. Hoping to shave off another 3-5min before Singapore biathlon. But then again, the target now is to clock longer runs. I'm actually rather worried with the shin splints and the fact that i have yet to run a full 10km and NUS biathlon is 2 weeks away. With the shin splints, i'm not sure if i'll be able to push as hard or run as much as i would want to. Sighz...
Anyway, was chatting with dad this morning when he sent me to work coz my bike was in office. Client sent me home last night. And, we were chatting about running and stuff. And he said, i remember u haven't had this shin problem for a long time eh. And i was like DUH.. of course i've not been having the problem. I haven't been running period. And here's his real optimistic reply. Well, it never stopped u from running while u were in school, so, i suppose it shouldn't bother u much now too. Haa... Just love the old man. Always hit the nail in the head. Yes, i will just have to tape up the area and run. I really need the mileage more then anything now. Might go 10km tomorrow morning, easy run. And go for a easy swim. Then do brick training on Saturday. Oh well, see how it goes. If the pain is real bad, like bad till i can't train, then i have no choice. But as long as it is not that painful, i will grit my teeth and run and swim. I really want to finish in a respectable time. =)

Satisfying training

Went for a run early in the morning before heading to the pool for a swim. Did a easy 5km run, thinking i was going to run more. But i didn't. Stopped at 5km. Time: 32 min 44s. So this is by far my best 5km run time. Which is pretty good for me. Was going at a pace of 6'59.
After that, decided to go for a swim coz i wasn't really tired. Did 300 warm up, 5*300. (6.36, 6.39, 6.42, 6.40, 6.45) 2 min rest between each set. As usual, my first lap is always my strongest lap where i can feel myself gliding and pulling. After that it becomes a blur. Did a minute for the first 50m of each set. After that, it just goes downhill. But i'm glad i've managed to drop to the 6plus region. I'm sure with more training and more work, i will soon be able to do a sub 6 min for my sets. Giving myself another 3-6 months to drop below 6. In the mean time, will work on shaving off precious seconds per set.
Today is the 3rd day that i've managed to fit in a run and a swim. But something is definitely bugging me. For a long time now, i have not had shin splints. Then again, for a long time i have not been running. And i half suspect they are back. But will only know when i run tomorrow. But 80% certain coz when i squat or walk, i can feel it. Damn..
Totally off the topic of training, something happened between Guardian and i today. Before you let ur imagination run wild, we didn't meet up. We had a conversation over sms. But in one of the sms, it suddenly brought me 10 years back, to nov 1998. And i can only cringe and once again question my own judgement of man. And more importantly, the fact that i have loved a man so blindly for so long. Blinded by love that doesn't even make sense, to a glaringly obvious flaw. It was a little painful. But i'm sure with so many things to look forward to, the pain will subside. =)

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Another good day

Ha.. Just ended another day where i managed to fit in two sessions. Swam in the morning and ran in the evening. Although overall, i think i did less then i did yesterday. Woke up late this morning. Dad came into my room to ask if i still wanted to swim. And i woke up in a start. Didn't hear the alarm clock, bio clock didn't work either. And when i moved my arms, OUCH. I was really aching. So decided to do a easy swim.
Swim:
300 warm up
5*100 pull buoy
1.3k easy swim (36 min)
200 cool down.
Then i wanted to rush out to go to office after that. But tot i had time to sneak in some food first. Big mistake. It started to pour straight after that. So, did as much work as i could at home in front of the computer. And cleared the files that i brought home from work. Reminded clients of some outstanding stuff. And soon it was like 4pm. And i realised just how hungry i was. And i remembered, i didn't eat LUNCH. It was cool that dad was on the way home, and he called. So he packed me noodles. Yum yum. And the yong tau fu that i like from chinatown. However, when he got back, it was late. Like 5.15pm. And i had to run by 7pm. I knew i shouldn't have eaten, but i just can't resist good food. So i finished the noodles, and i knew i was in trouble. I was super duper full. Anyway, turned up late for running and everyone else had left for the run. So went to the track to look for any familiar faces around. And the group wasn't there as well. But bumped into this new girl. So went for a run with her. Did a slow run coz she said she it was only her second run. Was hoping to do track work today. But i guess i could save my strength and do a long run tomorrow. So, went for a 5.5km run with her. Took 38min. And just as we headed back to TP, the guys had finished their runs already. So, showered and went for dinner with them.
I've been thinking abit about whether it is feasible for me to do my Ironman this year. Or should i wait to do it next year. Couple of pros and cons. And the smart thing would be to focus more on my runs this year, clock more mileage, do easy races this year as a guage, and then go for timings next year. Sounds like a more ideal plan. But truth is, its really tempting to sign up for the year end ironman. Just coz many others are also doing it. And i think it'll be a ball to go together. And if they do it this year, it generally means they won't go back to the same place next year. Hmm.. Tough choice. Anyway, i have up till jun to make up my mind.
So i've done the water fiesta on Saturday.

Upcoming races would be:
NUS biathlon 17 Feb
Singapore Biathlon 1 March.

Then i have a huge gap till OSIM triathlon and Aviva Half Ironman.
Army half marathon
Standard Chartered Masters Swim
And finally the Standard chartered marathon end of the year.

Other races i'm thinking of would be Lion City Marathon. Might do another Triathlon such if i can find it. And probably one more run/aquathlon.

Haven't really gotten it planned out yet. But i'm hoping to not have too big a gap between races coz i would lose focus and get bored. Ha...

Eh.. thats about it. I'm actually quite impressed about my posting rate for the month of Jan. Must not be working hard enough. .... =P

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Super start to the week

Feel great today. Mainly for many reasons!
I finally tried out my nike plus sensor and shoes. And i did 7.56km, time 53min56sec, at a pace of 7'07". My ipod told me all this info! Ha.... Anyway, ran on the treadmill coz two times this morning, i put on my running gear, grabbed my stuff, all ready to run, and it started to drizzle. Usually i love running in the rain. But new gear, so wanted to keep it dry. Went to office after that, managed to actually get quite a bit of work done! So that brightened up my day.
Then finally, highlight of Monday evenings, went for swimming training. Reached late coz got held back, so didn't manage to fit in a warm up. Started off with 3*100 front crawl pull with butterfly kick. It was horrible for me coz i suck at coordination. But just took it as my warm up, so swam easy. Then did 5*100 with pull buoy. Then did 2*50 kicking, (my favourite). After that 3*200 easy, and 4*100. And cool down 2*100. Why i enjoyed today's workout was coz there was no timing involved so everything was swam at easy pace. And the longest distance we swam was 200m. Haa... Went for dinner after that.
So, it was a great run, great swim. Plus i lost 2kg since the last time i weighed. Andi have new gadgets. And new friends.
Oh, plus Guardian called. So, super start to the week =)

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Eventful day

Woke up early this morning, partly due to the fact that i was nervous and didn't sleep well. Oh well, its been a long long time since i could say i took part in anything. And considering this is my first ever biathlon, i was nervous yet excited at the same time. Reached the pool, realized that there were many people taking part in the biathlon. Kids, adults. Whoa... By this time, i was jittery already. As usual, 1 million and 1 crazy thoughts flew past my head with the most prominent one, what if i come in last?
There wasn't really anyone i knew when i reached. So it felt like one of those obscure races i did when i was younger. And i didn't really know anyone or they were way older then me. Except this time, there were lots of people my age just that i didn't know them. But then again, i'm new. So i guess after a couple more races, i'll start seeing more familiar faces. My race no was 426. Didn't manage to get my swim timing. But i reckon i was doing about mid 18-19 min. And the run time was 34.46. So i made the run but didn't make the swim. But can only confirm after the 15th when the results come out. My transition was slow. Need to work on that. Plus, i have a lot of abrasions. So i really need to get proper and decent gear. But all in all, very fulfilling. Tired as hell though...
And i have a new scar to show off for my first ever biathlon. I really think i'm quite a klutz. Wonder how i survived sports all those years growing up. Always a new injury every time. Anyway, after the swim, while i was climbing out of the pool, i lost my balance, fell and scraped my hand against the floor. And the floor was really rough and so some skin came off. And it was bleeding while i was running. But i'm glad i completed the race. And i'm even more impressed about how much i really wanted to do it, coz i don't remember the pain at all throughout the run leg. It was only when i was showering did i begin to feel the pain. Either i was super charged with adrenaline or my nerves take way too long to register. Haa...
Came back, took a short nap. Then it was time to go for Marcus' wedding.
Met quite a couple of school mates as the bride was from the same secondary school. Small world. And the more amazing thing was that Marcus' parents still remember me. Faint.. Guess i haven't changed all that much since primary school. As usual, it was a great catch up session although i am pretty certain i underpacked in the ang pao department. Packed the SOP amount. But after dinner, i felt like it wasn't enough. Wanted to get another ang pao and all chip in. (those pri sch mates at the table) But then we decided since they are a rich family, its fine. Haa... What an excuse.

Had a great time in general. Decided to come straight home after the wedding. Hoping to do a short run tomorrow before heading out for a lunch appointment. Actually pretty excited to try out the new nike shoes and the nike+. Hope to catch a show tomorrow as well. Anyone hasn't caught the show American Gangster yet and would like to watch it?
All in all, i'll say today in general was a great day. Aside from the scar on the hand, the bad abrasions, i feel great. But today also showed me that i need to really improve on my run. Coz having a strong run leg is more advantageous then having a strong swim leg. Not that my swim is very strong lah.. But i think i need to be able to keep mid pack on the runs... Eh... i guess this is it. Nitez!

Updated 10 Feb: Race results were out although there was no specific breakdown of the swim, transition and run. My total time was 55 min 04s. I know i did my run in close to 35 min, and my transition was pretty long, so i suppose my swim was about 17min. There were 15 women competitiors, and i came in 10th. So i suppose for my first race, that is pretty decent!

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Jitterbugs

I should be asleep and not blogging. But i couldn't sleep, so decided to drop a note. Damn.. i'm super jittery about the mini biathlon in a couple of hours time. Its been a real long time since i've actually felt this way. Jittery jittery.
And i can't sleep, thinking of the 1 million and one things that could happen. Like come in last.. Like can't finish the run after the swim.. scary.....
Anyway, i went for a easy swim this morning. Just did laps. Did about 26 laps in 34 min. Wasn't pushing myself coz i was tired. And i wanted to save myself for tomorrow.. meaning later.. Went to mit a client, closed a case, then went to office, then came home early coz wanted to sleep. Didn't ride, so took the MRT. Which was a mistake. No more MRT rides at 9 plus. Feels like being packed into a little corner of my room. Don't think i am claustrophobic. But i am certain i have no liking for crowds or many people. Of course i am known to be swayed by certain brands and will brave the crowd. But other then that, give me my bike any time manz.
So, came home and tried to sleep. Maybe i was trying too hard. But didn't work. Still not asleep. And i'm still scared.
Oh yeah, bought my ipod sensor today. So now i'm all ready to start running. A funny thought actually went through my head this afternoon. Its been a long long time since i wanted to put on my running shoes and just keep running. But i had a glimpse of that feeling earlier on. Guess i just have to focus on that and soon, i'll be doing my half marathons and hopefully, a full marathon that i complete. =)
Alright.. gg to hit the sack. I keep telling myself to do my own race tomorrow, and not be bothered about the timing. But i'm still scared as hell i'll come in last coz my run leg is slow. I think my swim is about mid pack. So its the run that i'm damn worried about. And i keep having this feeling that if people are slow or unfit, they wouldn't be crazy enough to sign up for a biathlon. So, what does that make me?
Nitez

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Good workout

Had a great workout today. Swam in the morning and ran at night. Sounds like a perfect day, minus having to go to work in between.
Swim:
1*300m warm up
3*500m (12.28, 12.33, 12.35)
1*200m cool down.

Run:
1*1.2km warm up
2*2.4km easy (13.35, 14.02)
stretching and walking for cool down.

Eh.. nothing more to add except it was a good day and great workout =)

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

One hurdle crossed

Ha... Woke up early. But didn't run. Gave myself the excuse that i needed all the energy for tonight's time trials. Which is bullshit really coz the biathlon consist of the swim and the run. But, i'll run and swim tomorrow for sure.
Anyway, went in to office to get work done. And as usual, spent more time talking then working. This is horrible. But the more horrible thing is having to 'siam' the managers coz i am sick of everyone giving me their sales pitch of why their agency is the ideal agency to join. I just want to be left alone!!!!!!!!!!!
After work, headed down to Yishun Safra for the swimming trials. I think i super blur lor. I paid $3.2 to enter the pool. And the best part is, after i entered the pool, a life guard stopped me.
Lifeguard, "Hey girl, you here to swim? Pool close 4 lanes.'
Me, "I came for the swim trials.'
Lifeguard, "Then why you pay to come in?"
Me, "Dunno. Coz never pay cannot come in mah. And i don't have a safra card."
Lifeguard, "Ask me mah. Then i let you in. Next time you come, and i around, you can ask me let u in ."

Haa.. My free Safra entry. Except that i bloody stay 25 minutes away by bike. And the swimming pool behind my place is a 3 minute walk. Haa...
Anyway, there were only 4 of us for our slot. Two guys, one girl and ME. And it was pretty scary. Coz i reached early, wanting to warm up. But then, the guy suddenly came to tell me that we could start early. So, did a little stretching before jumping into the pool.
So, this girl was next to me, and i decided to follow her pace. She chiong right from the start. And i stupidly followed. But after 6 laps, i was gone manz. I couldn't pull, my legs felt like lead, and i was hurting. So i switched to breastroke for 4 laps, before changing pace and went back to front crawl. I am pleased with my overall timing, but i guess the effect of the swim was pretty bad. I stopped every 50m to blow bubble 3 times before carrying on. Somehow, i don't think it is very healthy, coz eventually, i would have to swim the whole course without stopping. Anyway, that is my next target. I'm just glad this time trial is over and i did it within the time frame that i set yesterday.
Final time: 35.33min. 1.5km

Next mini target is to do 17 min at this Saturdays water fiesta for 750m swim, and 35 min for 5km run.
And i have time trials on Sunday again for NUS biathlon. Sighz....
One step at a time, one step at a time

Easy workout

Did an easy workout today. Didn't swim like i planned to, coz of all the errands i had to run. Plus i woke up late. Ok, not really late, but i rolled back over to sleep. Ha..
Anyway, went for a short run in the evening, did about 4.5km in 28.33. Not as fast as i'll like it to be, but i'll guess it'll have to do for now coz i have so not been running for more then a week. And if the timing is slow, i guess i get what i put in. Anyway, time trials is tomorrow, so doing my best not to get myself too tired. Am aiming to do the time trials in 36 mins. Keeping my fingers crossed. Will kick harder.. =)
Rest of the day went by in a blur, with loads of stuff to do and buy. Spent a bomb today. And so i guess i'm done for shopping for a while. Haven't seen any nice jerseys i want to buy yet. So that's good. Gotten most of the stuff i need already, short of the ipod device for my new running shoes. But that will probably have to wait till the next pay check comes in. But i'm really quite excited about the new shoes. Have come to a conclusion that the blisters i get on my left foot, has nothing to do with the shoes i wear. So i improvised and just taped up the part of the arch that was getting blisters. No blisters today, but since its a slow run, not quite a good guage.
Oh yeah, i ran on the track today. Shit. It is still as boring as ever. This Saturday when i do that mini biathlon thing, it is going to make my mind go on overdrive from the boring run. But, since it is my first race for 2008, and my first race for biathlon, hopefully the adrenaline will outweigh the monotony.(Is that how it's spelt?) Ok. Enough for tonight, going to crash and hopefully wake up for a 5.5km run. Time trials in the evening!!!!!

Monday, January 21, 2008

One step forward, two steps back

I think this is like the story of my life. Ha...
Anyway, sorry i lied about being back on Saturday. Wasn't really in a mood to write. =P
Well, woke up, went to work, and then went for swim training. Did 400m warm up, then 750*2 (17 min, 18 min) and 100 warm down. Technically, if i do this same timing for my swim trials on Wednesday evening, i should clear the trials. Anyway, i didn't train the whole of last week except for that crappy swim session on Monday. So, i'm almost close to being back on ground zero. Damn...
I signed up for NUS biathlon and the water fiesta. So, that means two more races before Singapore Biathlon. And i need to work my ass off so i can afford a decent tri bike by March. =) Anyway, only other thing to add is Guardian is dating someone. Or rather, in his words, seeing someone. Yeah. It affected me. But right now, i am darn glad i have the time trial, and the race this Saturday to keep me occupied. So, i'll pen down how i feel probably after the time trial. But i did ask myself how many more times am i going to give him the power to hurt me... =(

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Oh.. Its Monday again

Another week has flown by. And yes, its Monday again. Nothing interesting to report. Went to office. Went to help Superman. Went for swim training that i quit on myself again. Did, 300 warm up, 2*200 (4.02, 4.09) 3*250 (5.25,6.09,5.22), 2*25 sprint, 25 easy. Cool down 100. My 3rd set is usually my make or break i just realise. If i don't push in the 3rd set, then my 4th set is usually a DNF or shitty timing. Took hell lot to finish the 5th set. And i had to alternate breastroke in the 4th and 5th set. Even one of the life guards commented that i was struggling from the 3rd set onwards. And i can confirm its really what goes on in my brain. As long as my brain doesn't make noise, i sure as hell can finish. Only when i have doubts the the tiredness sets in and i don't push as hard anymore. My gf overtook me in the last 3 sets. The 5th set was only decent coz i told myself that i was going to draft her all the way. And if this is what my training is going to be like for the next couple of weeks, then i know i am so going to suffer on race day.
Met Guardian after swimming to go JB to have dinner and pump petrol. I know.. What was i thinking of. I could come up with a million and one excuses like why i met him.. Like was going to take back my helmet, and my oakley shades. But i know best. And they are merely excuses. Anyway, he was super duper sweet to me. Maybe coz he's worried too.
Anyway, not going to be blogging for the next couple of days. Will be back on Saturday! =)
Till then, take care u all!

Sunday, January 13, 2008

My 2nd weekend of the new year

Woke up on Saturday morning, looking forward to the session at Sentosa. Got there, did 6 laps of Tanjong Beach which i'm assuming is about 2.4km and then went for a 4km run. Easy pace. Showered, went for lunch with some of the trifam people, before heading to pay for the water fiesta that i'm taking part in. Saw the running route for that day. Damn... It is 12 rounds in the track. Before the race, i'll go do a short session. But i so hate running distance at the track. So boring.
Came home, then got convinced to go out with the parents to Tangs to buy stuff and since my original intention was to take a nap before going to Taka, i thought why not. So basically spent the whole day shopping, then going for a seafood dinner (YUMMY) and then off to Ridgewood Close for haato icecream. Brought the parents there for the first time and they seem to like it. You know how i like these out of the way cosy places. And the reason why i go to these places is coz i don't really like crowds. But it seems like many of these out of the way places are starting to pack up with people. Damn...
Reached home at about 11 and decided to hit the sack. Didn't realise how tired i really was. When i hit the sack, i still had not decided if i was going to go for the long run this morning. And i didn't in the end. Woke up at about 5.30 this morning and felt super duper dehydrated. Apparently, the sun and sea and run took more out of me then i imagined. And so, i drank like half a bottle of water before deciding that i deserved to give myself a break. So, i went back to bed and woke up only not too long ago.
The rest of the agenda for this lazy Sunday would include, church, a meeting later in the afternoon and maybe if i'm up for it, a long slow run tonight. But not sure about the run yet coz its either i run tonight or tomorrow morning before work. But thinking more tonight so i can get some work done tomorrow. I'm quite bad at this juggling act and i can see my work falling behind... Anyway, that's about it for the weekend update. Will write more when i feel like it... Later...

Saturday, January 12, 2008

A simple reason is reason enough?

I posted on the forum today asking people what was their reason and motivation for doing the triathlon and the IM. There have been many helpful people who have shared their personal stories. But it was one post that struck me.
All along, my belief is that completing a triathlon or IM was a really difficult task. And people do so because of a huge motivation/reason. I was amazed to find out that many people had simple reasons for doing something that i deemed to be rather difficult.
And after spending the whole day thinking about my reason for wanting to do the triathlon, i have finally found my answer. I think it all began in 1999 at the old SPE pool. Where i met uncle Tim. He had just graduated from SPE then. And in his uni days, he was actively playing rugby and doing triathlons. Actually, he was the reason why i was inspired to pick up rugby then. I remember having nothing much to do then, as i was waiting for my A level results and was single during that period too. So, everyday, i would take a bus to the old SPE to swim, then run or run then swim, have lunch, take a nap and hit the gym. And one day at the pool i met Uncle Tim. We started talking and started doing our swims, runs, lunch and gym sessions together and he encouraged me to do my first biathlon. But i never got down to it. I remember he said at that point of time that he felt that i was mentally quite weak. And after i had put my mind to it, and finished the biathlon, then i would realise that there was a lot more that i was capable of and i would finally be able to walk away from Guardian. Yes.. He was in my life for 3 years by then already!
I went to uni in July but never did a biathlon or triathlon. So, for many years now, its been on my to do list. So after one solid day of figuring it out, i guess my initial reason for doing the biathlon boils down to this two reason. One is coz i had nothing better to do then and i met Uncle Tim.(Peer Influence?) while the second is that i take completing a biathlon/triathlon/IM as being able to finally walk away from Guardian.
So, the question is, am i ready?

Friday, January 11, 2008

It all boils down to the word WHY

I didn't write before i slept last night, not because i was tired. Not because i was lazy. But coz i wanted some time to think. Went for training with some of the runners last night. We were doing easy track work as with Tuesday. Exact same workout. Only difference is there is a drop in timing. So, did 1200m warm up. Then 4*800m run. (4.45,4.50,4.51,DNF)
Basically that were the splits for each of the set. Why didn't i complete the last set? Well, my msn title says it all. Its all in the state of mind. In the middle of my fourth set, a question suddenly came into my mind and that was the end of my run. I asked myself, why was i doing this? The reason behind why i wanted to do a marathon or triathlon. Maybe it was coz i was tired during the run that i had no instant answers. But after a night of rest plus a easy swim just now, i still have no answers.
And the scary thing is, as long as i don't have an answer, i am so not motivated to train. And my mind keeps quitting on me.
So, the question to ask is WHY i decided to do a marathon and biathlon and triathlon this year?
I have a couple of ideas, but since i am rushing out for lunch appointment, i will update this later =)

Oki. Back from lunch appointment. Got the sales. Means some money for next week at least. But here's the contiunation in the morning. I woke up early and swam. Classification of swim would be, light, easy and basically not training. I'm not sure if i'm just exhausted from the trainings that i've been doing, or the lack of training this week and thats why the body is feeling quite lethargic. I guess i'm actually unsure if its tiredness or lethargy. Or that the more i question myself, the more unsure i am.
I'm doing my best to recall why i wanted to do a triathlon/biathlon, the marathon. But i can't seem to figure it out. Maybe it was like a follow up when i was younger. Like coz i ran and swam quite a bit, and it was a natural progression. Or maybe then, i always thought it was way cool to push myself to the limits and see how much i could take. Or maybe coz i just wanted to compete in any stuff that i could compete in at that point. But, now, i'm not so sure anymore. Why do i want to do it? It was in 2000 where i first found interest in the biathlon. Coz NUS organised one every year. But i never got down to doing it then coz i was already bz with track, netball, rugby. And not forgetting the 6 hall games i was involved in, 2 varsity sports, 2 national training squads. I think that was all the time i had then. And i was at my peak in my running and swimming then, and thus thought it would be easy to just combine the two.
Now, 8 years on, i would say i am as unfit as can be, and i am not sure why i want to put myself through it. Maybe i'll get some inspiration from others stories. But i think end of the day, i would first have to sort out my own feelings and thoughts before i can move on.
My current week training has been in the dumps.. And i'm feeling even more tired mentally coz i am constantly trying to convince myself and do the workouts. =(

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Long slow run

Too lazy to update anything other then more problems at work meaning i still have no manager at this point of time. Do i follow my heart?
Did 6km in 54 mins. =9min/km which is damn blurdy slow. Need to up the pace but struggling between faster speed, then cannot run long distance. Versus, slower speed, run longer distance.
Answer= Dunno... confused.. will ask my running guru tomorrow. But he told me not to run today. But i forgot to swim. Then i realise tomorrow i have to be in ofc by 9, which means i can't swim. Damn

Wednesday, January 09, 2008

Haha

Woke up damn early. But sky looked horrible. So didn't run and didn't swim. i know its excuses. So went to work early instead.
But best part was, i didn't wake up to horrible aches in the calf and legs. So, my conclusion is, either yesterday's workout was just nice, too light or i'm getting better =)
Anyway, need to swim a little today. If not will never clock my 4 times swim this week. Its wednesday already and i've only done 1 swim.. damn

Short post

Short post coz its late and i'm damn tired!
Didn't do very much today. Didn't wake up for a swim. Woke up close to noon. Had 2 appointments that suddenly got cancelled. So, had the whole afternoon free. Was supposed to do some work or head back to office. But was so damn tired that i crawled right back into bed and slept the whole afternoon. Then went to run. Short session today. Ran 1.5km warm up, and then did 4*800m intervals. (5min, 5min 30s, 6 min, 6 min) with 1 min rest in between. Went for dinner and came home. Now i need to sleep again
Somehow i just feel the week did not start off right. Anyway, hopefully tomorrow will be a better day =)

Monday, January 07, 2008

Start of the week

It was a rather sombre start to the week. And if today was an indication of how the rest of the week would be, then can i wake up all over again?
Woke up late this morning. And it was only coz after i got home last night, i wanted to blog before going to bed. Should have gone straight to bed. Anyway, set the alarm at 7.30pm but only woke up at 9.30. Was running late coz had to be at the wake before 11. So i hurriedly showered and change and managed to get there by 10.30am. Said my last goodbyes to MC da ge, and couldn't help but cry. I know i will miss him dearly. One less friend to go karaoke with,eat steam boat with, make me laugh, teach me chinese. And basically cheer me up when i'm down.
Went back to office to get some work done after that before heading for swim training! I felt like i had a great workout today! Did 600m warm up, then 10*50m fist swim, and finished off with 10*100m swims. Did 100m cool down after that. The guy that gave us the workout, Dion was really helpful and shared with us some stuff about competitions and all. And today i learnt that drafting in a swim really does wonders. HA.. makes the swim a lot easier. But then again, i like drafted him for 3 strokes only. And he gave me a tip to work on for my own swims later this week. All in all a rather good workout!
Dead tired now though.. And thinking i need to go to bed. But, i just had dinner like an hour ago and sleeping so soon after eating isn't very healthy i suppose.
Anyway, i'm aiming to fit in a light swim session in the morning tomorrow. And then there is running training tomorrow night. Although i think i hate running at this point of time, no better time then now to build up on the fitness! So, hopefully, i will learn to like running more once my fitness level goes up!

The weekend and My thoughts

Woke up early on Saturday morning to go to Tanjong Beach for a swim and run. Wasn't very productive coz i didn't do the complete workout. In fact, i did less then what i did last week. But there was this new girl whom i buddied up with and she was not very confident in the water so stayed at the back to swim with her. Then by the time i finished 4 laps, the rest were done with their 8. I need to focus more and not get so distracted with others during the swims. But then, i feel like people have been helpful and supportive to me when i first started out swimming with them, and thus, feel this compelling need to help this girl out. Went for a short run after that. It was supposedly short, but i'm so not used to running. And the sun was up already by the time we were running and Man.. was i struggling. I know i really need to pound the pavement a lot more so that i wouldn't have this problem. 10km is no joke man. I cannot even last 5km solid without stopping. So, my aim for the coming week is to run at least 4 times and with each time lasting more then half hour. If i can do 1 solid hour, that would be ideal.
So after the morning workout, went for the usual lunch session with the rest and basically just sat around and chatted. It was peppered with jokes and gossip. But the best part of the session was probably all the experiences of those that have already been doing this sport for some time. It really is inspiring hearing their stories and motivating to learn how hard and how often they train.
Came home and slept for a while before heading to Kloudiia and Stuart's wedding party. It was an ok affair. Not the traditional sit down Chinese dinner. More like a reception. Met up with lots of coaches that i've missed. If anything, it felt more like a POE get together more then a wedding. And it was interesting how when the coaches get together, they will always be the more lively and energetic bunch. Think it has to do with the energy that we give each other. Of course when the music came on, it really really resembled the morning of day 1 of POE. Guess most of the coaches are really anchored to the music that is played at AKLTG. Or maybe its like a feel good thing for them. For me, the best part of it all was being able to catch up with friends that i have not seen in some time since i did not coach a single POE the whole of 2007. And also since i didn't go for the Chirstmas and New Year parties.
Had coffee after leaving the party with my two favourite coaches, YZ and Alvin. Yup. My superstar coach. Always feel really comfortable and great chatting with YZ. And it really is so cool that we haven't known each other for all that long but still i feel like we've been damn good friends for super duper long. And i never realised that Alvin could be such good company until like last night. I felt we were actually on the same frequency and it really has been some time since i found a friend that was quite in tune with me. I'm also damn glad to hear from him that he is so much happier in his job and his life in general. Quite different from the Alvin i first knew =)
Went back home, slept until noon before heading off to church. It was great to be back in church, and i know i struggled with GOD for a period of time and i'm still working things out. But i'm determined to sort out my relationship with GOD this year. Today i reflected on quite a bit of stuff during service. Maybe it was GOD's way of talking to me. For the longest of time, i was angry with GOD. And today, when i thought about it, i just realised how ridiculous i had been. I always pride myself in not blaming others for the decisions and choices that i make in life. And although i never blamed people in general, i had spent a really long time blaming GOD for the wrong choices i made. And i know any relationship that has been strained takes time to build up. But as long as i put in effort and am sincere, i'm sure my walk with GOD will only grow stronger!
After church, i spent the rest of the time at MC's funeral. I teared at the funeral at the point where they asked us to turn away from the coffin. The whole bunch of us sat at the table and we were just chatting about MC. And the last time i saw him was at Superman's birthday, where we went for dinner then headed to karaoke.
MC was always very positive and a joy to be with. Even when he was super tired after a long day of work and we dragged him out to party with us, he would still give his best to his friends. He would tease me and joke and kid. And i remember a couple of times where i finished work late and met up with the guys, and he would always say how come u look like you're so tired? We're out having fun, so just let go and have fun. And even when he was tired or had a long day, he would still make those around him laugh with his silly jokes and his comic actions. MC was really cool to hang out with.
Jamie was commenting at the wedding, remember how MC used to tease you non stop about TG everytime we were out together? MC didn't understand why i liked a guy who was old enought to be my dad. And yet, he gave me tips on how to attract TG, and edged me on when initially i was too shy to approach TG to talk to him. And whenever TG was chatting with some other chick when we were partying, MC would distract me with his jokes and make me laugh just so i'll feel better. Honestly, MC touched many people's lives. He always potrayed a happy-go-lucky attitude. We've known him to be extremely loving towards his mum and brother and also his friends.
Today, at the funeral, there were many people who turned up to pay their final respects. But what really pissed me off was that there were hordes of onlookers who actually stood around the wake and were gawking at the stars that came to pay their respects. Some of them stood for as long as 4 hrs. Don't these people have a life? Don't these people understand that family and friends have just lost someone close to them and just wanted to spend some time with him? Didn't they know that it was very disrespectful to be standing around and pointing? The worst was when some lady asked if MC had any special numbers to give them. WTF. And we had to very nicely explained to them that MC didn't buy 4D and would unlikely give anyone any numbers. Anyway, i was very irritated by some people who were standing behind where we were sitting and blocking the way and were gossiping non stop. ARGHHHHH... These people have no sense of decency!
But i guess what really troubled me at the end of the evening was, MC was outlived by his aged mum and a younger brother. He was the sole breadwinner of the family. And with his sudden death, how would his family cope without his income? He would have wanted his friends to make sure that his family was fine coz they were very important to him. And yet, his family is just like MC, would never want to trouble friends and ask for help. So, i know superman and wife, Mr Ye, Mr Goh would do everything in their capacity to help the family out. But whether they accept financial help remains to be seen. I know i have no financial means to help MC. But i will surely be praying for his mum and brother and i pray to GOD that he will watch over MC's family. I already miss MC da ge...

Saturday, January 05, 2008

A low day on the whole

Call it 6th sense or what. But somehow, last night, i had a feeling today was going to be a lousy day. I'm not sure if its one of those chicken and egg theory. Like is it coz i thought it was going to be crappy and that's why the day turned out the way it did.
Woke up early wanting to swim. But the minute my legs touched the ground, i knew it was unlikely that i could do a good session today. And i was right. I'm still re running the whole swimming scene in my head coz i'm thinking whether i gave up or my body gave up. Anyway. did the usual 300 warm up. And it was already hurting. Did 2 sets, in way too slow timings. 7.15 and 7.20. Started on the 3rd set, but stopped after 200m. Had really bad stitches. I'm pretty certain its from the running yesterday. Though why i can't quite explain. Will probably research it. By then, my arms hurt, my legs felt like they could no longer move, although i'm pretty certain i was using different sets of muscles. And finally. another slow 300 and i was way way too tired to do anything. Legs still feel like lead.. not sure if i'll be able to do the sentosa session tomorrow.
After that dreadful swim, i rushed off to office for meeting. Of which due to the numerous changes in timings, i got the timing wrong and was late for the meeting. Didn't reflect very well on me i feel. But what's done cannot be undone. So no point brooding about it. And it was a lousy meeting, coz i felt like everything was already decided, and we were redundant there. Might as well have sent me an email informing me about the changes. Sometimes, i really wonder whether it's just my definition of discussion that differs from the world or its just a nicer word to use in big companies. Ok. So after that horrid 'discussion', which took too long, had to rush off to meet the headhunter.
I made it just in time for that meeting. And things didn't turn out too well i guess. This i have no one to blame but myself. I was totally unprepared. She must have thought i was an idiot. But lucky for me, i get to meet up with her again. And so, in whatever time i have this weekend, i'm going to be cramming as much information as my head can take.
In the middle of the meeting, my phone rang. And oh so lucky again that the lady had just stepped out. And then i heard, 'Eh, have u heard any news?' Since i wasn't sure when the lady was coming back, i told the person on the phone, can u just get to the point, i'm actually in the middle of something. Then the person said, MC King died. And i remember telling the person.. 'it's not really a good time to joke.' And she asked if i had spoken to superman. And i did. Like we met yesterday only. And apparently, MC King passed away today. So i carried on till the end of the meeting, walked out and called Superman. And he sounded bad. And like i know they were really close....
So, that got me thinking, life is so unpredictable at times. MC was like 40. And that's just like 12 years older then me. And i remember in all the times we were all out together, he never failed to make me laugh. He was always a joy to have around. And not forgetting he didn't smoke, didn't drink. He was working out for the last 1 year to lose weight and keep fit. Hell, the guy was fantastic if u ask me. I'm going to miss him lots. Just seems funny. I'm going to miss him give me a wardrobe makeover. Teasing me incessantly about TG. The crazy comments and jokes he cracked every time we were out. Always having a positive attitude and his favourite line every time we went out.. Why must it always be at such a noisy, smoky place. Why can't we simply do dinner and coffee...
Well, i'll miss him. As i'm sure many others who have seen his shows and sort of grown up with him. Like what Superman said earlier,

Here's to you MC: Death separates a life not a relationship. Your existence has brighten up many people's life and we'll always remember you for that. Rest in peace!

Friday, January 04, 2008

Frankly, i'm a little disheartened

I know that when it comes to swimming and running, or anything that is fitness related, it generally takes a lot of mileage to get the fitness level up and to be able to do either comfortably. But somehow, when i went for the long run today, i was really really quite disheartened. Nevermind like everyone was running in front of me and that has so not happened in my life before. Nevermind that i cut short my distance and didn't do the full workout. But it was the fact that i felt like i couldn't keep up and somehow, i doubt that i gave it my all. And not forgetting i stopped and walk a couple of times and then there was the stitch, and then i was still at the back of the pack. And worse of all, my calf muscle hurts like hell.
So now i'm in a dilemma. If i run, then my calf hurts. And swimming is a lot easier on the body. So, if i want to swim, then i might have to forgo some running. Aiya.. i dun know lah.. Its irritating me.
Anyway, normal day. Met a friend for lunch, then went to sentosa for a meeting which i felt i didn't even need to be there. Then went for the run, before meeting with a client at 11pm to sign switching forms. So all in all, i think it was a rather fruitful day.
Anyway, i've just been feeling a little grumpy. I don't even really know why. Or maybe i do.. But i was so hoping that it wasn't gg to be the reason. Oh yeah, i think i can still improve on the discipline part. Woke up at 8 in the morning but didn't hit the pool. Damn.. Will see how i feel tomorrow morning after today's rather long run that my calf is still screaming!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thursday, January 03, 2008

Saying goodbye

I hate saying goodbyes. The movers came in today and took everything out of office. It was too much for me. I went off before everything and everyone was gone. And it is becoming a pattern where i come into an empty office. I don't feel good about it coz i've always been a people person and it just seems so wrong to have an office without a trace of human life in it.
On the good side, i did like my own time trial today for my 1500. Did it in 38min 58sec. Which is like 39min. But i guess i feel better now about the actual time trial next week. Going to call tomorrow to book for it. But from now till next week, i hope to bring it down to 35min. Need a slightly bigger buffer to feel better. But still, i think it was a pretty good effort. I sort of have a love hate thing going on with this guy. Its actually his words that made me think i could do it within 40mins. And yet, when i excitedly told him i did it, he was quite a wet blanket. Anyhow, maybe its his way of stirring me to better my own timings and achievements. But i still think i deserve a pat on the back, because i know if i really did, and will not let someone else dictate whether it was a good effort or not.
Met two old time friends today. One for lunch, and the other for coffee after dinner. It was nice catching up and just chatting. Then pop back into office to check if my cases were settled. They weren't. Before heading for dinner with another friend. Spent a while chatting.
All in all, it was just another day. But it feels good to be out meeting people and basically having a life. Oh.. Guardian texted again today. Not sure if it is becoming a habit or it is his way of telling me he needs me. I did ask if everything was fine, and he said it was. So, will leave it at that. Tired and want to rest early coz i have a long day tomorrow. Need to go Sentosa for technical meeting and want to squeeze in lunch appointment tomorrow too.
Plus i would like to swim and i will be meeting the running group for the first time tomorrow. Pretty excited about that really.. hee

Wednesday, January 02, 2008

First day of 2008

I somehow think the small fonts are way too small, so have decided to stick to the normal fonts. Hee
How did i spend the first day of this brand new year?
I woke up pretty early i think. Had good rest the night before because i didn't party. Its this healthy lifestyle thing that i'm aiming for. But not sure how long more it will last. Haa
Anyway, i went for a swim in the morning and was rather surprised that the pool was actually quite devoid of people. Was thinking that it would be crowded being a public holiday and all, but i was wrong. Practically had the whole competition pool to myself. And it was great. Did the same set of workout that i'm trying to improve on. Did 1*300 warm up, then 5*300. Wanted to do 6 sets actually coz i think i need to increase the mileage that i'm putting in currently. But i am having a tough time balancing distance or speed as my fitness level is still not there yet. Please dun ask me what is there.. coz i'm not too sure myself. But i'm sure when i'm there, i'll know. Anyway, did 7.02, 7.09, 7.15, 7.12 and 7.11 for the sets. So i'm still off my targets except for the first set. But truth be told, today my target was to shave off 15s from the previous workout. So i did it and deserve a pat on the back! Anyway will work on the current pace for a week before shaving off another 15s next week. But time trials are next week for me already so i really have to work harder.
After the workout, i went for a mtg with superman and gang to prepare for our Sentosa event. But i think it was a rather silly meeting coz i was the one who prepared the schedule and therefore there was no need for me to be there. Felt i should have voiced it out and gone for trifam's sentosa brick training. Would have benefitted more. And speaking of brick, i really need to start running. Damn.. Not putting in enough mileage for the runs. Gonna suffer on race day. And as someone said to me, better to suffer now then suffer on race day.
Anyway, after the meeting, i went to meet a couple of clients to sign some forms before heading home to meet Oli for kopi. He damn cute.. say want to pick me up, then came in his new car. Dunno who was more excited.. Haa.. But its nice. And we were chatting and he was asking me about Guardian, when Guardian called.. Speak of the devil. Anyway, Guardian called to wish me Happy new year. In his words, he said, every year, he would call his closer friends to wish them happy new year rather then just sms. So i said judging by the time he called me, i am pretty far down the list. We chatted a little before he had to go back to work. He always has a way of tugging on my heartstrings. But, i still think we're better off being friends.
Anyway, had coffee and back home. Want to rest some before waking up to do a swim session before going for lunch appointment.
But, all in all, i pretty much enjoyed today. Felt pretty productive. Plus two of the clients i met today mentioned that they were keen to do a top up into their investment. So i guess thats great news for me on the first day of the new year. More More More to come i'm sure! Yeah.. 2008 is looking up!