tapots on the run

Race Pot Money to Top Lucky Runners

2011-07-23T14:23:00.008+08:00

Except for little prizes raffled off after a race, non-elite runners like me and tons of others (e.g., novices, running because his doctor says he should, joining races because everyone is, those just wanting to counter calorie intakes during the week, etc.) would be too lucky to bag top prizes in running competitions. Well unless all top runners are somewhere else like in some major race with much bigger prizes or where only a handful attended because of the date and the weather (which reminds me I have been lucky once and bagged the top 3 spot).

Anyway, Google reader showed me a blog introducing a fun alternative to the usual give-the-pot-money-to-the-elites. If you're too lazy to click the link to read the entire post, I'll summarize the idea into two items:

a new award allocation format
you could be real slow but you can still win the pot money

I bet my favorite pair of running socks that this wouldn't get the top runners and their handlers' nod. They would certainly be unhappy and argue to the lines of, "Where's the competition in that?! Now what would motivate one to run fast now? 1#^&$h+)x!"

But for slowpokes like us, that kind of race would be exciting.

Now how to get this idea to race organizers... Hmnnn...

D.E.A.R. Friday

2011-05-06T15:03:00.002+08:00

Clad in our workout clothes and trusty running shoes, we slowly gathered at the parking lot area of Teradyne Cebu, 5:00 p.m. of April 8. Dubbed as D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything and Run) Friday, it was the first in a series of activities planned out by the group TERunners, the company’s new running and walking club. I didn’t know what to expect but I sure was a bit anxious early on when I saw only about five people in the assembly area. “With this number, it will just be like running alone,” or so I thought.

Angelica Joson (from UltraFlex-Miata) and company suggested the once-a-week activity during the club’s second meeting. Everyone who heard the idea got so excited that they can’t wait to launch it right away. And so the group agreed to start the run the very Friday after that meeting.

The plan was to group into two--one for the runners and the other for beginners and walkers. But the early birds seemed to be comprised of those who can’t wait to dash out of the gate and run around MEPZ 2. So we decided we’ll just go as one group for that first meeting.

While waiting for someone to take the lead for the warm-up exercises, I saw the attendance gradually increasing with more Teradyners proceeding to the area. BRS-VTD’s Lourence Alemania, one of the club representatives, made sure that everything was set from the sketch board for drawing the run route to the attendance sheet for tracking active members. For the warm-up exercises, he also gamely took charge (at least that’s what I thought) with participants who now numbered around 15.

“I had mixed emotions—nervous, shy, and excited—since that was the first time that I had to lead an exercise in front of such number of people” he later shared.

“I’ll lead the warm-up next week,” Rowena Retuerte of Marketing promised. I told Lourence I could also lead the walkers group if they show up next Friday. For the running bunch, I’m sure the current pack leader would be glad to see volunteers too.

With excited smiles, 20 or so TERunners set out and run on a clear afternoon for two 2.5-kilometer laps in MEPZ 2. Led by avid runner Leopoldo Arias (Nextest), we proceeded at conversational pace. But we did not really worry about pace as the goal was just to cover the entire distance.

“Walk if you should, dash if you could, or just jog and chat like most of us are doing,” Pol said. “For those just starting out, we advise run-walk intervals.”

The run was already in full swing when more familiar faces, in wide grins, came to catch up and join us. Some cheerfully walked and chatted to cover the remaining distance.

PSG’s Juanito Serrano felt one lap is enough for starters. “I did not know that I had it in me, until it was out of me... my breath!” Juan quipped.

After two laps, majority of the attendees slowly trickled back into the Teradyne compound and congregated for the stretching exercises. I think I wouldn’t have finished the entire 4.5 kilometers if I was doing it alone because I would have been easily bored going the same route minus the chitchats and personal cheering squad.

“It was fun,” Angelica said. “It was a great way to meet people who like running as much as I do.”

I agree; it was great. Actually, it was more fun than solo running where my mind easily wanders off to ice-cold, calorie-laden drinks and to the cafeteria’s humba (braised pork belly). Now, TERunners just have to keep us feeling great every week and maybe those with high cholesterol levels like me won’t need medication at all.

TERunners is created, among others, to promote and encourage running and walking to employees as means to get fit, and, at the same time, have fun along the journey to better health and fitness. Aside from D.E.A.R. Friday, the group is planning to hold running clinics for participants to learn the basics and principles of training in running. For walkers, the group sees doing hikes and treks. Members and non-members are welcome to join the activities.

This Blog Hasn't Died

2011-04-13T12:28:00.003+08:00

Nope. The blogger is just busy working on... work! Definitely still running. Even running with people from work and getting involved in creating a running group with people from work. I'll tell you more about it in a separate post.

Gotta ~~run~~ work!

My CCM 2011 Story

2011-01-20T16:17:00.008+08:00

I am jubilant, no—ecstatic! I finished my first 21k! I remember I felt the urge to dance as I approached the finish line but a marathoner beat me to it with a rain dance.

Ahh, it was that savory feeling of facing your fears and overcoming it.

I had been afraid. The panicking started two weeks before the race. To say that I was not prepared for the Cebu City Marathon 2011 is an understatement. And to think I had so much time to train.

At CCM 2010, I was supposed to run my first 21k but had to settle for 5k because of an injury. Back then, I thought that meant more training time for 2011. I aimed not just to finish but for a strong finish, a goal that became too ambitious for someone who has started to make procrastination a habit. Before I knew it, 2010 was almost over. And at a time of Christmas parties, get-togethers, buffets, it was easy to ignore your running shoes.

The last time I laced up and run was early November, a 12k where I got dizzy and took lengthy walk breaks. By late December, the 21k felt so daunting that I thought of quitting. I even had a good excuse like going to the dentist for that long-overdue tooth extraction.

But the running community has its way of letting out the crazy in me. People I run with at work didn't think twice about proceeding with the race, sans preparation. I didn't want to be left behind so I tagged along at race kit-distribution. As I lined up for my kit, I sensed the excitement from race participants--faces beaming, talking incessantly about running. The level of energy made me want to show off my green race bib to quietly broadcast that I'm part of this amazing, happy community. And just like that, I was far from the scaredy-cat I was.

On race day, I didn't mind the little droplets of rain. I was excited; and as I can observe when the race began, the spectators, street dancers, and fellow runners were, too. It was a huge party and I was having a ball.

There were moments when my legs got too heavy but the festive Sinulog beat pumped me back the energy to plod, jog, and run again. At the last 3km, it felt like each foot was chained to a medieval metal ball. But motivational quotes along the way and a cousin, who suddenly showed up in a motorcycle to encourage me, brought back a spring on my step. Before I knew it, I was propelling towards the finish line! It was exhilarating. Anyone would want to dance for joy at the moment.

I shouldn’t be too happy with an almost 3-hour finish but I am so thrilled for not allowing my fear to overwhelm me. But I know better now. Next time, I will be prepared and continue the goal of a strong finish.

my wish list

2010-10-30T18:01:00.003+08:00

Since this is a running blog, I'll start my wish list with what I will be needing (and am fancying) because of this vice.

another pair of running shoes. because my adizero needs company. and i need a spare as i'll be doing more mileage than usual. the adidas supernova adapt looks good.
a garmin. haven't i lusted over this long enough?
and the accessories of course:

hydration belt
visor
headband
socks
track jacket
duffel bag to put all those stuff in.

Now outside running, here's what I hope to receive:

suitcase.maybe i'm over my backpack days. uhm, nah, i guess i just can't pack light on some trips. preferably in easy-to-spot-on-luggage-carousel colors (e.g., red, orange, or green).
silver earrings. studs or small hoops. because i'm low-key like that.
sunblock. because we've got lots of sun on this side of the world.
scents. from lotions to body sprays. nothing too strong. i like fragrances reminding me of cucumbers, seas, and someone just fresh from the shower. bath & body works is nice.
spa/salon gift certificate. someone who's been working too hard deserves lotsa pampering.
a vacation. hello relatives from san pablo and sg, hello friends from leyte and dumaguete! i need a sponsor for board and lodging. fare, too. :)
gym membership. ha! who'd have thought i would want to be in one. i just love the outdoors. but now with all these threats of typhoon and all, i realized how convenient gyms can be.
wallet. mine is getting too shabby. something in some funky color so it won't get lost in the mess inside my bag. you can also include cash. =)
kindle.
discovery channel magazine subscription.
jackets in denim or just something i can use to cover up when i'm too dressed-up for a jeepney or trike commute. these look cute:

That's all for now folks. Now don't tell me I didn't give you a clue what I want for Christmas.Or as pasalubong when you dear relatives abroad come over for a vacation. Hehe.

Registered for my first 21k!

2010-10-28T15:19:00.003+08:00

Oh dear God, help! I have finally registered for my first 21k. Where else...but through the streets and colors of Cebu this January 9!

Aaack, just the thought of it makes me uneasy and anxious (think 10 times the worry when preparing for a major job interview). I need all the luck I can get. Training, too. But I just learned I need a tooth extracted soon so that's missing a lot of training days. Boo hoo.

What's Grander Than...

2010-07-14T20:31:00.004+08:00

What's grander than finally convincing my brother to regularly lace up and run?

When he has become so enthused in the activity that he keeps me updated of his weekly mileage (and I can't help but compare it to mine). Maybe I'll lag way behind him in the next race; maybe he'll look so lean the next time I see him that I'll think I was the couch potato. I start to worry.

Now I've got another reason to continue pounding the pavement.

And they say worrying is bad for you.

Rundae Photos (2nd batch)

2010-05-22T11:00:00.001+08:00

For easy uploading, I compressed the photos. I can give you a copy of the orig. If you ask nicely. :)

Rundaue Shots (batch 1)

2010-05-21T20:29:00.011+08:00

I had a not-so-grand experience the last time I run the CICC-Cansaga bridge route, so instead of donning my Adizero Tempo, I took my Panasonic Lumix prosumer to the Rundaue.

Click, click, click. I had to compress the photos so it wouldn't take me forever to upload.

Braving 10ks

2010-05-16T19:00:00.008+08:00

I have run a couple of 10k in road runs with Tera buddies. The joining of 10k races, however, started in the 2nd quarter this year--about a year after I signed up in my first fun run. Yeah, I'm a late bloomer.

GLLR 2010

I chose the Great Lapu-lapu Run as my first 10k because of the timing chip. The mini transponder doesn't lie so more accurate time. Race results are published on the web too, and fast! (I can brag all about it if I got a good time. Hehe.)

I was all set for the event but come race day, I left my mp3 player and cap. No problem, I borrowed Lex's player. And I'll just be fine with my sunglasses... Not! The sun was unbearably harsh that day and worse, the race started late. Good thing, there were numerous water stations (excuses for my walk breaks!); Gatorade drinks were abundant too. Still, I walked more than I should. Oh well. I tried. Hard. Hard enough to get me a 1:06:03 finish time (1:05:58 chip time) for my first 10k! Yeba!

28th among 140+ women...:P

fun, fun, fun!

celebrity sighting!

3rd Mandaue Run
I felt it was more than a 10k what with the toxic smell that we 10k participants sniffed at the first turn (which I still continued to breathe in a couple of kms after), drought (water stations run out of supply), and the extreme Cebu heat and humidity. I didn't get to check my time but the finishers' list had me at 12th place in the women's 10k. I should have been ecstatic but I don't know, I felt so out of shape. I had lengthy walks and was so out of breath that I decided right there that I'm going back to running just 5k races. With throat itching for something cold to drink and eyes seeing McDonalad's pancakes, I hurriedly left the venue. After a bit of picture-taking of course...

with Glyn

Good Friday, Good Run

2010-04-06T15:03:00.005+08:00

Holy week, long vacation, Bantayan Island beckoned.

More than a month before the religious festival, I knew semana santa would be the perfect time to conquer the Sta. Fe-Bantayan route--I will have me some company (planned to drag along running buddies) and I got more than a couple of days (the family would not be happy if I just visit for a day or two and yet still sneak in time for running).

Lex and Pol were as excited as I am. I decided to have it on Good Friday so the brother and sister in law can join (they will arrive a day before). When we picked them up from the pier on Maundy Thursday, the bro hinted his preference for trail running(he brought trail-specific shoes). No, thank you, my shoes are dirty enough. His wife, Anne, didn't bring her pair so maybe she could just drive behind us and provide the needed hydration, I jokingly suggested.

Early morning Friday, I got the sleepy "diliiiiii" reply from Kuya when I told him it's time to don those running shoes. Tsk3x, enough for the planning.

I and Lex met Pol as we were walking from the town plaza towards Brgy. Ticad. We were officially off and running as soon as we stepped on that bridge fronting the old movie house.

Except for the flattened-out frogs, snakes, and other roadkill, I am loving the change in scenery; no other joggers/runners, just a few trisikads and tricycles.

We were halfway past the cemetery when we saw a man bolting out of Village. He donned the same running singlet I had on--that of the recent Citigym fun run. Pol sprinted and overtook the guy who did not hesitate to join us to Sta. Fe.

To make the long story short, I made it the around10 kilometer (just the boys' estimate considering the time) of cemented road in one piece. Enough with estimates, I have to have a Garmin! One hour and seven minutes without walk and water breaks. Not bad, eh? It was our new friend's (Ronald or Roland?) first time to run for about an hour, too.

Next time, we should try the more scenic Okoy route--Kuya's suggestion but of course we took it to mean that he won't be joining us. He seems to enjoy more the planning and suggesting. But I'm not giving up on him. =)

see you at the races...

2010-03-25T15:01:00.003+08:00

no blog posts for how many days now? hmmn, i'm not even bothering to count...

life's been a bit overwhelming lately so i'm not beating my brains out for little things like calculating the number of days i haven't updated this blog, or list upcoming races to update the race calendar (right).

so just excuse my absence here.

i still run though. i need to. it helps me keep my mind and body from nearing shut down mode.

now, i couldn't even take the trouble to include a photo showing i still pound the pavement.

oh well.

still...see you at the races! i will show up at this sunday's citirun.

p.s. i won a pair of socks @ that running clinic sponsored by runnr. i thought i was lucky until i heard they called out jun's name. he won the polar watch.

Kasadya Race

2010-01-26T15:41:00.013+08:00

I signed up for the Kasadya Fun Run because almost everyone at the office (well, at least in that little circle of Teradyne runners) said they will register. And also, I’ve been feeling sluggish after the Cebu City marathon; I needed another reason to sweat it out.

Tera tira?

The week before the race, I was only able to do one MEPZ2 afternoon run, which upped my worry that I’ll be racing on Sunday with walk breaks. I was already sauntering after the third kilometer! A man in a bicycle even greeted me with, “Ug nganong galakaw naman ka?”

Oh well, good luck to me at the Kasadya Race! Jun, Lex and Pol signed up for the 10k while I joined the rest of the Teradyne guys in the 5k, which category was exclusive for MEPZ employees.

At race day, our group was closely huddled near the front of the pack while waiting for the starting gun. So first 100 meters, we still caught sight of each other--except for Pol who zoomed away, and Vin and Kyaw who seemed to fly over the 5k route.

After the 1st km, I noticed Lex was not in his best shape (read: I have to slow down so he could keep up). When I noticed him reducing speed for the first water station, I sped up. But you know how guys are, they don’t want to be outrun by a girl. So he hurried up and later kept my pace. We parted at corner Banawa and V. Rama roads where the 5k and 10k routes separated.

It was at that corner (2.5k) that I grabbed a plastic cup from the water station. I gulped half of the water and poured the remaining half on my head, while I slowed down to a walk. I noticed the road getting lonelier, with the long gap between me and the runners before me. Still, I continued to take walk breaks, albeit brief, when I felt too breathless to enjoy the run. In the 3rd km, I managed to overtake a couple of guys but surrendered on trying to lessen the gap between me and the last female participant ahead of me. Upon approaching the 4th km, a familiar face (I later remembered her as one of those older women who always placed in races when the younger ones aren’t in town) shouted to me a jumble of words, with “third” as the only word I could make out. I’d like to think what she said was, “Third ka kung apsan to nimong baye sa unahan!”

I told my out-of-breath self I’ll be fine with fourth and just continue with my pace. After overtaking a male runner or two, I noticed that I’m approaching yellow flags signaling the turn before the finish line. And I thought I have to run at least 300 meters more! I decided to step up my pace until I noticed a girl ahead of me, walking as she made her turn. Whooaaa, it couldn’t be! Very much energized (and excited), Tapots whooshed to the finish line, smiling, big teeth and all.

It still remains a mystery to me why the girl continued with her stroll, not seeming to care that I am overtaking her. She gave me the podium finish that I never expected. Gee, thanks!

kadako'g ngisi sa uban... =D

And I got me new 5k PR, at 28.47. A kasadya race indeed!

running = endorphins = happiness

mcdo treat ;-)

CCM Photos

2010-01-22T13:56:00.013+08:00

Bloghopping led me to more photos. Lookie!

Estan Cabigas' photo gallery (mostly shots of 42k participants)

Reel Runner's CCM Memoirs

Cebu Sports Blog' CCM Photo Albums: 1, 2,3

Giovanni Salahog's FB Album

The Race That Made Us Proud

2010-01-20T15:57:00.007+08:00

The Jan. 10, 2010 Cebu City Marathon has left me proud as a peacock, what with all the glowing reviews it gained. I may not be part of the organizing group that worked very hard (Kudos to Cebu Executive Runners Club for a job well done) to make the event a huge success, but I am a Cebuano and we Cebuanos are a proud lot. We take pride in our own, from the various achievements of fellow Sugbuanons to our very own dialect. Cebuanos are proud being Cebuanos.

And so imagine my delight when Jaymie Pizzaro a.k.a. The Bull Runner gave the Cebu Marathon five TBR medals (excellent!).

“[T]he best local race I have ever joined. The organizers of Cebu Marathon got everything right from the carbo loading party to the awarding program,” she said. But my favorite was what she mentioned about us Cebuanos:

The one thing that stood out in this race, which contributed most to its success but didn’t cost a cent, were the people. The warmth and hospitality of the organizers and Cebuano runners were felt all throughout. Spectators lined the roads and cheered enthusiastically. It didn’t feel like another big corporate-sponsored racing event, but a run to celebrate Cebu, its people, and its culture.

Ahhhh, ain’t she sweet?

Aside from TBR, a number of running personalities and runner-bloggers agreed the race wasn’t that bad, to put it mildly.

Bald Runner

[T]he Cebu City Marathon was an outstanding road race that surpassed my expectations. From registration, distribution of race packets, carboloading party, race proper, up to the awarding ceremonies and the immediate posting of the official results, everything was “perfect”.

Amado L. Castro, Jr

[T]he manner the race was held has earned itself the rank right on top of the best if not the very best of any race events in the Philippines.

Drum and Run

It is by far the best road race I have participated in and is now my benchmark for future races to come.

Forefoot

For many points, the Cebu Marathon topped the charts.

Sheer Will

[I]t was a great race. A shoe-in for the Best Philippine Race of 2010 unless others up their ante.

Running Fatboy

Thanks to the organizers for making this a very good event. There were ample marshals, signs, and lots and lots of water. For your first year at doing this race, I can safely say that this was a SUCCESS!!!

Gingerbread Man

[I]t's one of my finest racing experiences ever, and you have got to try it next year.

Ani de Leon

This should totally be an annual event!!!!

Janine

The Cebu Marathon experience was simply awesome!

U-huh, I scoured the web for those plus a little help from Google Alerts.

Speaking of pride, I can't help but boast about my 29.03 in the 5k. A PR after a long running break! Yeba! Now I shouldn't feel a wee bit of a wimp for not taking a stab at the half marathon. There's always the next CCM. ;-)

Next post will be photos from the race.

December in Photos

2010-01-02T18:25:00.004+08:00

I hope this post will make up for at least a couple of entries I should have made in December. The month of eating and parties leaves one slothful but to run addicts like me, there's no excuse not to don those running shoes and pound the road. I begged off from long runs though and wasn't faithful to my regular run schedule what with my aching right foot (see prior post). OK, I'm lazy too. So instead of a lengthy entry, the December post will mostly be photos with those little captions. =)

After the office Christmas party, I went to

Cebu Sports Club for the Midnight Run.

I loved the cool, sunless race! Until next year.

Since the boys decided to push through with their
21k plan, they continued with the training, which
included a 14k road run. I joined them, not in the run,
but in the breakfast @ IT Park. Pol later decided
to register for the full marathon.

Feeling guilty with all the Christmas feasting,
I managed to do a quick morning run in my island hometown.

I felt the familiar pain in my right foot after the
Combado run, warning me to give my feet more rest or else...
The feet didn't just get the relaxation they needed,
the nails also got painted to the color of the season.

With the break, I felt fat and slow. So, I talked my parents to
bring me somewhere I can spend time with my other love--swimming.
They drove me to Sugar Beach. Ahhh, I miss Bantayan already.

aaargh #*$%##s#!

2009-12-07T14:54:00.008+08:00

I hate to say it but it maybe buh-bye to the half marathon this January for me. I have already skipped a huge chunk of my 21k training program and even ended a chow-filled week without running. It's doctor's advice--not the eating but the not pounding the pavement.

Before the visit to an Orthopedic Surgeon, I was already walking with a noticeable limp caused by a pain I felt on my right foot (yep, that part highlighted in the image below). image swiped from runnersworld.com

I dismissed the discomfort thinking the pain, like I had in my knee, will just go away (the knee started to hurt when I experimented with my running form but got alright after I went back to how I was doing it before I read materials and viewed videos about running). The injured foot, however, did not felt it's normal self after a few days; it got even worse that friends and office mates readily noticed my uneven walking.

I can run or jog or walk real fast without that nagging pain but once I rest, especially with knees bent for some time (e.g., commuting in a cramped van), the first few steps would be difficult. A visit to the office clinic brought about the trip to an Ortho, which doctor I just chose from a list accredited by our healthcare insurance provider. As mentioned above, the appointment with the doctor brought me the refrain-from-running advice. I also had my right foot X-rayed, which X-ray showed nothing really wrong with my right foot. Now I'm taking expensive medicines and feeling heavy for not running in a week filled with parties.

I'm going to run tomorrow. Sssh, don't tell my doctor. I'll just be taking it easy anyway. And oh, my right foot doesn't hurt now. Really...

MIA

2009-11-25T12:37:00.007+08:00

Yeah, Missing In (blogging)Action for almost a month now. I don't seem to have the time for writing or blogging anymore. But the running I'm not skipping. Well, not unless when it's heavily raining (and I'm wearing new shoes), or when traveling won't give me enough time to run.

So what have I been up to?

October-November Break

The week before All Soul's day brought me to my island home town. But the vacation didn't deter me from sticking to my running program. First day of my leisurely time away from work had me waking up very early for a five km. Getting up way before the sun is up when there’s no work is a no-no for me, so hearing the alarm clock was a little too painful. With the change in scenery, however, I very much enjoyed the run. What with the clean, tree-lined road free from the scores of tricycles that roam around town later in the day. I can still remember the exhilarating effect of the fresh province air occasionally combined with the smell of freshly cooked anok (puto in Cebuano). I noticed that I and Lex were the only runners/joggers that day. I thought I saw one runner sprinting around the town plaza until I noticed he was on his slippers and looked like he just run because of some emergency. So the road all to ourselves! Wheeeee! Next time, we're bringing Jun and Pol here for the 10km (or is it 8km?) run to Sta. Fe. And maybe Bel, another Bantayanon, will have some heavy breakfast ready for the trying-hard runners. Hehe.

After Bantayan, I went to the running buddy's hometown. There, we didn't have the time to visit their sports oval nor do a quick road run. As was the usual All Saints' Day, we camped late afternoon until morning at the cemetery where most of the people are hanging out. The following day we visited relatives (both dead and alive) outside the city.

When I got back to Cebu, I made up for those missed runs with Sunday long runs in Lahug and after-work runs in MEPZ 2.

November Races

I participated in the MEPZ 5k Fun Run (where Pol said I will have a chance in placing if I am religious in my training) and Brgy. Lahug's Mad Run for wellness.

I was 12th in the MEPZ Run female category, which made me think I should have started fast like Jun, Lex and Pol did. I had sore knees the previous week so I was taking it easy in the huge downward slope early in the race leg.There was something wrong with the race's timing device (i.e., top ten finishers had clock-in times of between 14-20 minutes) that I didn't bother to check my race time. Or maybe it wasn't really 5k? Hmmn, I need a Garmin.

Last Nov. 22, I participated in the 2nd MAD Run's 6k while Jun, Lex, and Pol ran the 12k. Bel failed to attend with her tummy problems. My clock-in time was 38 minutes.
I already signed up for the Seminary Fund Run this 29th. There's a MEPZ category; wish me luck!

Crazy, but...

2009-10-28T16:49:00.002+08:00

I, Jun, and Lex, have started training for a half marathon. Yep, you read that right: 21 kilometers for the Jan. 10, 2010 Cebu Marathon. Crazy. Well, at least for me because it seems my running buddies are so welcome to the idea.

I won't register for the 21k, leave that to the guys, I kept telling myself. I believe the half marathon is too early for someone like me, someone who doesn't always enjoy the running as much as when I'm finishing it (or at the point when endorphins kick in). But I guess there's no harm in adhering to the training program. And maybe come registration time, I will catch from the two the madness that is the 21k. So when that happens, I come prepared.

Anyways, according to the program, long runs are set on Sundays; first of which was just this 25th. We took the road from Jun's place in Pusok, LLC, all the way to the Mactan Shrine. I love the route, especially the generous view of the sea. The trees that lined up the clean asphalt road also gave abundant shade to us that came unprepared for the harsh rays of the sun. Lessons learned for that first Sunday include:

- Be on time. Or earlier. Running in the heat is not that fun.

- Don't carry anything bulky including a bottle of water (yeah, I'm a dork); there are plenty of stores selling the bottled H20 even early a.m.

- Bring small bills (the sound of loose change is too annoying) to buy the water or what have you.

- Put on some sunblock.

Runnr Goes to Cebu!

2009-10-19T13:42:00.009+08:00

Wheeeeeee! Runnr will open a store in Cebu!

Looking forward to this:

this:

and more foot candies:

Target opening date is said to be on Nov. 13 at Ayala's new Active Zone.

Good news for us, bad news for our wallets.
I bet my wish and/or shop list will get a bit lengthier.

The Quest for the New Running Shoes

2009-10-16T15:31:00.010+08:00

Determined to get my deserving feet new running shoes, I went in search for that perfect pair. First week of October, I scoured every sport-apparel shops in Cebu's major malls.

The plan was first to look for what pleases my eye, then try it on for comfort. If the footwear doesn't pass the "look" test, it won't go to the "comfort" test. If the pair clears both, I still won't buy it right away. I'll do more research online and read reviews so I'd really know if it's perfect for my type of feet--If we only have running specialty stores with knowledgeable salespersons, I would have skipped this part (Edit: see next post).

Finding the pair was easy because only one cleared the look and comfort tests: Adidas Adizero Tempo. Okay, others were too pricey for me or maybe I did not look hard enough. The Adizero Tempo that I found at Toby's Sporting House (SM North Wing Branch) came with a discount. They're beautiful, and very light too. Just the right colors and my legs looked longer in them. Hehe. After liking what I read from my research, I knew I had to get them.

With my birthday drawing to a near, Mom (after some parayeg) agreed to buy the pair as a gift to me. Yeeeha! But when she learned of the price, she settled to pay for just the 2/3. Oh well, I need to have the Adi so what's 1/3 anyway.

Days before the purchase, I already had nightmares. One dream was of me going back to Toby's and finding that my size isn't available anymore. Tsk3x, bad sign.

I came back to Toby's afternoon of Oct. 10, hopping to the shop with excitement. Lex tagged along. Imagine my shock when the footwear I dreamed about wasn't on display anymore. "We pulled out the stock," the salesperson announced. I was like "Oh sh*t, not another crazy nightmare." Only it wasn't a dream and what I actually mumbled was something like "Uh, OK maybe they have it at another store." I remembered seeing the same pair at SM's sporting goods department but I remembered it looked old.

At this time, big bro Juk arrived so the three of us trooped to the department store while I fervently prayed they still have a pair my size. I was so relieved to see the exact model and color I wanted, my size too. I was more than glad really. I was ecstatic! A little problem though: it was for men, or so the salespeople insisted. But it looked very much similar as the one displayed at Toby's women's running shoes section! Oh well... So what if they're for men, they look too pretty for a man's feet and they felt great on mine. And so to make the story short, I decided (after a bit of jogging and walking around the store) that the pair would be my new running shoes.

BTW, the SM Adidas staff was great; I was super pampered, I felt like a celebrity. Or maybe it was Lex's doing. He made up a story of me winning a silver medal in a recent race. "Just 20 seconds behind the champion!" I heard him telling the staff, who later asked for my name and the issue of the local paper that supposedly had a photo of me plus an interview. What a crazy, shoe-hunting adventure that was.

Goodbye nightmares. Hello Adi!

Time to Give my Merrells a Break

2009-10-12T17:41:00.008+08:00

After the first running clinic (CERC has conducted two so far), I knew I had to get me new running shoes. My Merrell pair (for trail running) is way overworked. I don't know how many miles I've run, walked, trekked, climbed, in them but I'm sure they have exceeded the mileage that make them necessary for replacement. A check of my photo albums says I scaled Mt. Talinis middle of 2005, which climb is the reason behind the shoe purchase. Whoaaa, four years old!

Gotta get me a new pair! Gotta buy, gotta buy.

"To avoid running injuries..." I can still remember a speaker's warning in that first CERC clinic.

Gotta buy, gotta buy!

With around four years in use, the pair should have been so worn-out now but you gotta give credit to Merrell for durability.

Right now those black, gray with a touch of red footwear still feel super comfortable but you know you ought to listen to the pros. And a new sleek and stylish pair wouldn't hurt. Well, except my wallet. Gotta get me a new pair. Gotta find a donor, a sponsor, a good heart! ;-)

And so goes the start of my search for the perfect pair...

Tapots Milestone: 6k Without Walk Intervals

2009-10-09T18:04:00.006+08:00

Yeah, non-stop run, albeit at a steady slow trot, for about six kilometers at the Mactan Export Processing 2. Or at least that's what Google Earth tells me.

Four 1.49km laps equal almost 6km... I hope I do that in the next race (God willing, I'll run a race this Sunday).

I guess the trick was just the taking it slow. But I don't find that easy during race time. When the starting gun fires, I can't help but speed away...then slow down at the 3rd kilometer...then start with the walking intervals. Oh well, wish me luck.

Who'd Have Thought...

2009-09-30T17:16:00.002+08:00

My First 6K

I wasn't too excited to join the 6th World Heart Day Fun Run because it doesn't have a 5k category. The September 27 race, organized by the Phil. Heart Association Cebu Chapter, only included a 3k, 6k, and a 10k. Here's something that many don't know: I haven't jog/run throughout an entire 5k race. Ever. I've joined five 5ks, in each of which I always have walking intervals. So, why would I want to enlist in a 6k when I haven't entirely run a 5k? That's what your running buddies do to you. If everyone has signed in, you don't want to be left in the sidelines.

Must Have Been the Weather

Typhoon Ondoy gave Cebu City a morning with skies very dark with clouds, like it's about to pour. It did not, bestowing us instead with what I think is a very ideal weather for a run--very windy and a tad bit cool. At times there were really strong gusts of wind, successfully overturning the race organizer's tent. It tried many times to blow away my cap, too.

With that kind of weather, running wasn't much of a chore (I still took the usual walking breaks though). The group (this group should have a name soon. hmmnn…) agreed that we cannot have fared better if the Cebu sun was her usual bright self. So I guess it must have been Sunday's terrific atmospheric condition that had me and Jun surviving our first 6k albeit we didn't come prepared (rainy days = curling up and eating more). Lex also thinks it was the dandy weather that made him feel like the 10k was a 6k (he signed up for 6k but mistakenly run with the 10k runners).

The race course wasn't bad either--the road almost all to ourselves and the uphill was fun (overpass near Ayala). Bel should have signed up for the 6k but with recurring side stitches, she opted for the 3k.

What Do You Know?

Did I do great? A clock in time of 38 minutes and I-forgot-how-many seconds isn't. But if a great finish means finishing fifth in the 6K MEPZ women's category, hell yeah, I did!

Tapots hides behind the blur. Shy daw siya.

Who’d have thought? But maybe there were only five women from MEPZ who signed up. Hehe. But that’s an accomplishment still. I deserve a reward. Perhaps, a new pair of running shoes? Hmmnn, I hope mom reads this... ;-)

note to self: come up with a wish list soon (birthday and Christmas).

6th World Heart Day Fun Run Photos

2009-09-30T14:53:00.001+08:00

Photos courtesy of Ryz, who I can't seem to persuade to join us in pounding the pavement. But I hope she comes to more of the races so we can have more pretty pictures. Thanks, Ryz. Until next photo shoot. :))

The Sept. 19 Clinic

2009-09-22T16:04:00.000+08:00

To say that I enjoyed the clinic is an understatement. There was never a dull moment during the session, not just because most of us had our caffeine fix from the free-flowing coffee in that Casino Español conference room. Aside from making me a tad more informed about running (and then some), the speakers and their stories amazed and inspired me. The guest speakers are a funny lot, too. I was always laughing on my seat especially when they mentioned of running-newbie boo boos that I’m guilty of and gave honestly blunt answers to serious questions (e.g., sun block, where exactly is the wall, etc.).

So what did I learn from the clinic that I haven’t learned from my own research? Hmmnnn…. Here’s what I can get just off the top of my head:

--run your own pace
--a marathon is a killer
--if you really don't want to get injured, don't run
--most running injuries are difficult to pronounce and spell
--the invisible wall; which, sometimes, you’ll be better off not knowing
--Cebu motorists aren’t runners' best friends
--the wife can outrun the husband
--some men don't wear briefs when running
--in addition to water breaks, some runners have sun block breaks
--a well-known dermatologist in Cebu doesn't wear sun block
--you don't need sun block when you run at 2:30 a.m
--I need a new pair of running shoes
--best seats next clinic are those near the coffee maker :D
--carbo-loading party is an awesome idea

I told you it was fun. Props to CERC for organizing it.

Signed Up for Tomorrow's Running Clinic

2009-09-18T17:57:00.000+08:00

I don't think I can join a marathon by January but I bet I will be inspired by the clinic's speakers to someday enlist in one. I'm glad that Jun wanted to attend the clinic, too, so I have me some fun company.

Note to self: bring your camera.

My Third 5k

2009-09-14T16:08:00.001+08:00

I guess it was Lex that was so determined to sign up for another 5k that had me checking upcoming Cebu races barely a month after the last fun run. We later chose Rock N' Run because of the venue (Cebu International Convention Center), which means new race route (at least for us) and not too far for commute. The free concert after the race was also something to be excited about.

The race didn't live up to it's name though because of the weather. Early morning of August 16, I woke up to very dark skies and heavy rains. I didn't want to go to CICC thinking the race won't push through. But the other two thought better (from four, we were down to three--me, Lex, and Jun--as Lot got busy with her studies). The rain canceled the concert but not the fun run. The race would have been aptly named Rain N' Run instead.

When we arrived at the venue, there were just a few runners--barely 200 in my estimate. Like those who chose to stay home, I didn't want the run to push through. Even if the heavy raining transformed to just slight drizzle, I felt my shoe wouldn't survive the slippery pavement. And with big puddles everywhere, motorists could just splash/spray us.

The race organizer suggested postponement of the activity but the rest of the runners were not happy with the idea. I later caught on with the excitement especially when I saw race participants dressed as Madonna, Elvis, and the Incredible Hulk. With the Rock N' Run theme, I understand the two coiffed up as music icons but I don't get it why the raging green comic book monster was there too. Nevertheless, the guy with the green body paint had the most fans what with his big biceps and dressed only in short denim shorts, frayed at the hem. If the heavy rain came back during the run, he sure would turn back to Dr. Bruce Banner in a girl's shorts.

I couldn't recall my clock in time for that 5k but I can still vividly remember the fun amid the sweat and drizzle. And how the green guy was so far behind me in the race. I guess too much muscle could really slow you down.

My Second 5k

2009-09-13T19:20:00.000+08:00

I run my second 5k during the 33rd National Milo Cebu City Elimination run. I can still clearly remember that July 5 morning, when Jones Ave. was painted with Milo green from the participants' shirts. A part of me wanted to be a photographer, instead of one of the runners, to capture that sea of green (my favorite color, btw). Speaking of photos, we were only able to take pictures after the run, when our group of four headed to IT park for breakfast.

Click3x.Yeah, someone has her shirt on backwards. :D

My First 5k Run

2009-09-12T13:56:00.000+08:00

On the day to honor moms, I, along with a bunch of people from work, woke up early to join a run for mother earth. So it was on May 10, 2009, that I braved my first five kilometer run. Okay, make that 5k of run, trot, and walk.

Most of us in the group were first timers, which made me confident to register in the race. I wasn't too brave to sport comfy short shorts though so I just settled for my boring black sweat pants. I guess I didn't want to look like I'm trying too hard lest I won't finish the entire length of the race. But I did and I was so proud of the feat because two of our guys opted to do a short cut.

On a sad side note, Rex, my running buddy at work and part of our earth-run group, was shot dead in a senseless killing about a week after the run. Like me, he got afflicted by the running virus and had planned to train himself to someday join a marathon or two or more... I want to believe he still joins us now as we continue our pursuit of that dream.

What Made Me Start to Run

2009-09-10T18:53:00.003+08:00

Before loving the activity, someone or something must have inspired me to start to run. Hmmnnn... I'll try to remember.

Maybe it was Bob who got hooked to jogging/running that brought me to the Cebu City Sports Complex, or what is popularly known as the Abellana Oval. Bob and I belonged to a barkada we fondly name as the Bulldogs. He frequented Abellana at the time that he didn't have a job. Almost every afternoon, he was there; it was just a 15-minute walk from his house anyway. At that time, almost everyone in the barkada has either got married, were into serious relationships, busy with their own new set of friends, or just always out of town, leaving the two of us to make do with each other's company. Among other activities, it was hanging out at the oval that was least costly and yet most fun. He later met running addicts and joined them in fun runs. I believe I was far from ready to join him then so I just supported him in his races. He quit running after he got hitched (what is it with getting married?). Now he is a pudgy bulldog with a puppy in tow.

Even without the jogging buddy, I came back to the oval because of outdoor activities. I once belonged to an outdoor group, which favorite meeting place was the same oval. Members gather there mostly for the planning of upcoming treks or climbs. To prepare for those activities, members are advised to jog or run so maybe that explains why we prefer meeting there. The members of the group later split leaving me with a big backpack without new adventures.

And yet I came back to the track to run.

Maybe I kept running just because the oval was just a ride away from home.

It doesn't matter now; I am far from any rubberized sports oval (Lapu-lapu City should build one soon!) and have learned to run almost anywhere.

So maybe it wasn't the oval. Perhaps it's the high I feel after the run, the endorphin rush; the health benefits just a bonus. Maybe it's the beautiful and interesting people in the running community (they're a happy bunch!). I also find the activity to be the best de-stresser and escape from tensions at work and at home.

Hmmnnn, maybe all of the above.

Why Do I...

2009-09-02T14:58:00.000+08:00

...Run?

I run because I need the exercise. I always have a voracious appetite so I must be active to maintain a healthy weight, fit into my favorite jeans, and keep me away from threats of clogged arteries, heart disease and what-not.

I run because I can. I don't have to go far to find a clean swimming pool (my first love is swimming), I can run without going to a gym or a sports oval, and can do it without company. Heck, I can even run barefoot.

It's not an expensive sport. Well, until after you get yourself a training coach, buy yourself every new running-specific accessory available on the rack, lust over the highly-rated (and the priciest!) pair of running shoes, and treat yourself to all-you-can-eat food after finishing a run.

...Blog?

Why not?