25th Yakult 10 Miler Race Review, 1 out of 5 Revenge Runs

Since it’s my third year in running, I decided to improve myself.  I started trimming down “unwanted” fats and training better.  I’ve also decided to pick 5 races that I ran poorly or I felt I could have ran a bit better.  So the next five blogs will be about these 5 races.

First things first, this is my review of the recently held Yakult 10-miler.

Last March 23, the 25^th Yakult 10-miler was held.  Goldy and I were the only ones running the event among the team.  There was a bit of a problem because Goldy was the only one who had a kit.  Our plan was I was going to us her race kit and that she would just run at the CCP grounds.

I ran the 23^rd Yakult 10-miler last 2012.  Although I finished at 1:26, I felt that I could have gone faster.  This was the first test of myself.

The morning of the event came, we arrived an hour and a half before the gunstart because Goldy would have to get her race kit first.  Then, the announcer said some reminders and told that there are still 16k race kits available.  Without hesitation, we went to the registration tent and bought one for me so that Goldy and I can run.

3,2,1.... the run started... said a short silent prayer which I normally do, then off I went.

Being a 10 miler or a 16 km run, I decided to run a bit faster than I usually do.  I tried to run at a sub 5 pace to beat my personal best.

Unlike trail runs, road runs tend to have less elevation gain and loss, which I was glad about.  I was able to run the first 10km at a good 48mins.  This made me a bit satisfied because it has been a long time since I have ran 10k under 50mins. And the fact that this was a 16km run.

After the 10^th km, I tried to maintain a 4:45 pace.  But I struggled a bit because there were no ionized sports drinks available which I was accustomed to and I knew that they only served water.

Making a U-turn at Luneta Park, I tried to increase my pace gradually.  There was more than 3k left so I decided to go for it.

:P

Finally at a time of 1:15 with some seconds, I crossed the finish line.  I was happy because my speed was somehow back.  Goldy also finished at 1:30 which was also a PR for her.

So I was successful in my revenge of the Yakult 10-miler, this is only the beginning.  I hope I can sustain this up until the last revenge run.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 Shoe Review

This is the third time I will be reviewing some gears. As stated in my previous review this reflects only my experience about the product. I was not paid to review nor given free stuff, I bought this with my own money.  So here goes.

My previous "Go To Shoe" from another shoe manufacturer was getting phased out (I already have three pairs of the same model and color).  And although they already came up with two reincarnations of the shoe, they were just not the same.  So I tried to switch to other brands but unfortunately, they too do not conform to my liking. So finally I bought the Mizuno Wave Inspire 9's out of sheer curiosity.

Here are some technologies of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 9

CUSHIONING
Mizuno Wave consists of an elastic, thermal plastic wave running from the heel to the midfoot, creating an incredibly springy and well-cushioned ride. 
VS-1 cushioning material in the heel provides additional shock absorption.

MIDSOLE
AP+ is Mizuno's top of the line full-length copolymer midsole for a lighter, more resilient ride.
Smooth Ride is a gender specific network of grooves that minimizes the rapid acceleration and deceleration of the foot to create a smooth heel to toe ride.
Extended Wave Plate in the midfoot is an extension of the Mizuno Wave for increased torsional rigidity between the heel and forefoot.
Intercool ventilation system in the midsole inhibits humidity buildup to keep feet cool and dry.

UPPER
AIRmesh covers the entire upper and provides breathability to keep the foot cool.
Dynamotion Fit creates optimal fit with stretch material in the forefoot and a collar construction that prevents the heel collar from buckling under load.
OrthoLite Sockliner is anti-microbial and moisture wicking for a healthy foot environment.
Strobel Last with the upper stitched to full length fabric for a comfortable underfoot feel.

OUTSOLE
X10 is located in the heel and forefoot for enhanced traction and is composed of durable carbon rubber.

Now for some "feet on" experience.

The first time I tried them on, I was already satisfied.  They fit my feet just right.  The toe box is not big that my feet gets out of position nor they were narrow that my feet will get suffocated, they had just enough room for my toes to splay a bit. The shoe also catches my heel perfectly, I can tie the shoe a little bit loose and my heels will still keep in place.  Also, I noticed that these shoes are a bit lighter than my previous brands.  But lighter does not always mean better, I had to run with them to know their performance.

I used the shoe at the recently held Sagada Marathon.  I didn't know how they will fare because my longest run with them was just 21k prior to the event.  The shoes were very breathable, thanks to the AIRmesh, my feet did not sweat during the very cold and very hot conditions of the race.  As I have said, the shoes were light, and because of that, I had doubts that they would not give me enough support.  I was proven wrong, and I was happy to be proven that.  The shoe had also enough flexibility and stiffness that I wanted.  Lastly, I was skeptical about the Wave technology.  I am a forefoot / midfoot runner, so goes my skepticism for the Wave technology.  Fortunately, the Sagada Marathon had a very hilly route.  I had the chance to test the Wave technology during the very fast and long downhills.  The Wave technology absorbed most of the impact that I made with the ground.  I finished the run with minimal foot fatigue while also bagging 9th place.

Wearing my Mizuno Wave Inspire 9, coincidenlty also a Mizuno Shirt and Mizuno tights

All in all, I would give the Mizuno Wave Inspire 9 a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.  With an SRP of Php 4,995, I would definitely recommend this shoe. I was glad to have tried Mizuno's and I think I would stick with the brand for a while.

Salomon XT Hornet 1 vs Salomon XT Wings 3

This is the second time I will be reviewing some gears. As stated in my previous review this reflects only my experience about the product. I was not paid to review nor given free stuff, I bought this with my own money (although I would not mind being sponsored "wink"). So here goes..

I will be reviewing and comparing the Salomon XT Hornet 1 and Salomon XT Wings 3.

Watch the review of Salomon UK for the Salomon XT Hornet 1

and the review for the Salomon XT Wings 3

As stated by Mr. laid back reviewer, these shoes comes from the "XT" Family range of shoes. These are made specifically for "Trail Running". Although I would not limit using them exclusively on trails.

First up, the Salomon XT Hornet 1.

Salomon XT Hornet 1

In the Salomon website, you can see the full specifications of the shoe.  I took the liberty to show some of them here.

Specs:

Weight: 11 oz
Heel to Toe Drop: 10.5mm

Technologies:

Sensifit - Sensifit system works to cradle the foot providing a precise and secure fit.

Quicklace - Minimalistic and strong lace for one-pull tightening. Easy-on, easy-off.
Non Marking Contagrip - Delivering optimal traction on varied surfaces, Salomon's Contagrip® outsoles use the ideal combination of specialized rubbers for each specific use.

Ortholite - OrthoLite® sockliner combines a specific Ortholite® foam and an EVA heel cup. Ortholite® foam creates a cooler, drier, healthier, better cushioned environment under the foot. It will not break down or lose effectiveness over time. Recycled tire content to protect the environment. EVA heel cups allows for a better heel support and added cushioning.

Agile Chassis System

Now for some "hands on" or I should say "feet on" experience.

I have already used these shoes both for hiking and trail running, more specifically, the recently held CM42 Trail Marathon.

CM42 Trail Marathon

The CM42 trail pretty much has all the terrain imaginable.  It has ash, stones, loose rocks, mud, water etc.  The shoe pretty much held up to the task.  I did not slip or fall because of the shoes.  (I did fall once because I did not set my balance properly while crossing a "log bridge").  It is designed to have great grip on the trails. I can even step on a stone at a steep angle and the shoe will still have plenty of grip.  Mud also doesn't stick to the bottom of the shoe unlike my previous trail shoes which can be a literal drag.

The shoe also hugs my feet perfectly well, I'm a size 11 by the way.  I have pretty big feet, but  the shoe gives enough room for me to splay my toes around.

Overall, I can say that I would be giving these shoes a score of 4 out of 5 (It would be 5 out of 5 if it were of the price tag for these shoes)

Now for the XT Wings 3.

Again I took the liberty of showing some specs and technologies of the shoe from the Salomon website.

Specs:

Weight: 12.3 oz
Heel to Toe Drop: 10.5mm

Technologies:

Sensifit - Sensifit system works to cradle the foot providing a precise and secure fit.

Quicklace - Minimalistic and strong lace for one-pull tightening. Easy-on, easy-off.
Non Marking Contagrip - Delivering optimal traction on varied surfaces, Salomon's Contagrip® outsoles use the ideal combination of specialized rubbers for each specific use.

Ortholite - OrthoLite® sockliner combines a specific Ortholite® foam and an EVA heel cup. Ortholite® foam creates a cooler, drier, healthier, better cushioned environment under the foot. It will not break down or lose effectiveness over time. Recycled tire content to protect the environment. EVA heel cups allows for a better heel support and added cushioning.

Agile Chassis System

I can say that I have more mileage with these shoes than the XT Hornet's.  I have used them for hiking and trail running.  Specifically the Pinatubo 50k Ultra Trail Challenge.

Pinatubo 50k Ultra Trail Challenge

I have also used them in the CM42 route during a training session.  As I have said, the route have pretty much all the terrain imaginable.  And like the XT Hornet 1, it held up great during the run. (This time I did not slip on the "log bridge").  Whatever I did with the XT Hornet, I also did with the XT Wings.  The shoes were practically identical in performance and fit.

Overall, I can say that I would be giving these shoes a score of 4 out of 5 (Again, it would be 5 out of 5 if it were of the price tag for these shoes)

Now the comparison.

As I have said, these shoes are pretty much identical.  Here are some photos of my shoes.  (Yes they are a bit dirty because they are trail shoes)

Front View

Side View XT Hornet 1

Side View XT Wings 3

Back View

Soles/Lugs: XT Hornet 1 at the Left XT Wings 3 on the Right

As seen they are pretty much identical.  From the Upper of the shoe, down to the design of the lugs/soles.  They come from the same "XT" Family of Salomon shoes.  And they both come in glorious red and black color combination.

I can discern three differences between these shoes.

First, both of the shoes has the Agile Chassis System at the bottom. But as seen in the side views, the ACS in the XT Wings 3 goes from the heel up to the toe of the shoe whereas the ACS of the XT Hornet 1 only goes from the heel to the mid of the shoe.  This gives the XT Wings 3 a bit more stability control.

The additional material will mean that it will be heavier, hence the 2nd difference of the shoes.  The XT Wings 3 weighs 1.3 oz more than the XT Hornet.  You might say, "Hey, 1.3 oz difference is not that much."  but during an ultra trail run and you are really tired, any additional weight may be a burden.  The XT Hornet 1 get higher points than the XT Wings 3 for this.

 Lastly, the material of the upper.

Upper Material: XT Hornet 1 at the left XT Wings 3 on the right

The XT Wings 3 has a finer mesh material than the XT Hornet 1 giving it a bit more repellency.  This will work well in a bit damp conditions and a light rain because it will keep the water out of the inside of the shoe.  But this will not matter if you will be going through river crossings.

One things I do not like about these shoes or any Salomon shoes are the Ortholite insoles.  Yes they are soft and provides cushion but the tend to fold inside.  I have to take off my shoe and align the insoles from time to time.  

Salomon Ortholite Insoles

I replace the insoles with the insoles from my Brook shoes so I won't be bothered by the folding of insoles.

Also, the new logo doesn't look as good as the old logo.

Logo: XT Hornet 1 at the left XT Wings 3 on the right

The old logo just looks better, and the new one almost looks like the logo of another brand.  But hey, those are my thoughts.

Finally, if asked what shoe would I recommend, I would have to say whatever fancies you.  They performed great during wet or dry conditions.  They are pretty identical in every aspect.

I think it will all boil down to the price. If you are conscious about your budget, you may go with the XT Hornet 1, the shoe retails at Php 5,990.  A good price for a great shoe.  But if you have more money at your disposal, you might as well go with the XT Wings 3.  They retail at Php 7,990.

I got my XT Wings 3 at a sale price of Php 5,670 which makes it cheaper than the XT Hornet 1 which also makes my argument invalid.  So what the hell, go with the shoe that you want.

But if you really don't have problem with your budget, and money is nothing to you.  I would definitely recommend the Salomon XT S-Lab 5.

Salomon XT S-Lab 5

I have yet to use these because I don't own a pair.  These baby goes at a Php 8,490.  The price is just to steep for me.

So there you go, a comparison of the XT Hornet 1 and XT Wings 3.  If you have any questions feel free to comment.

photo credits to photo ops and Mr. Ian Mabilangan

CM42 Trail Marathon Race Review

Confidence comes from discipline and training. - Robert Kiyosaki

If you have known me for a while, then you may have known one thing about me.

I'M AWFUL AT TRAIL RUNS!!!

Fortunately, I am able to finish all of my previous trail runs, but the finish times were not to my liking.  I always lose my enthusiasm in the middle of the race.  Probably, it was because I was burned out.

To improve myself I trained harder and better.  Focusing on altitude gain and loss rather than long runs.

Unfortunately, I suffered a minor injury on my left hamstring two weeks ago.  Which was bad because I had an upcoming run, the PAU Nationals 50k Ultramarathon held at Guimaras.  This was my last training run for CM42.  Good thing the route had good altitude gain and loss, so I did not stray away from my training.

So came the day of CM42, with my hamstring still aching, I pushed through running the event.  little did I know my injury would be a blessing in disguise.

There we were, Goldy, Elvin, Dennis and I would be running 42km while Joy and Jonard would be running 22km.

Elvin was the cameraman

It was a bit rainy that the Race Director, Atty. Jonnifer Lacanlale, decided to move the gunstart from 4:30am to 5:30am.  Which was good because we would have the need to use headlamps.

3,2,1.... the run started... said a short silent prayer which I normally do, then off I went.

I started at an easy pace.  Minding my aching hamstring.  I tried to subside the pain by taking a tablet of mefenamic acid before the run.

Elevation Profile

The route was an out and back run, which meant we would be running the same way on the way back.

Just to summarize the route it was more of a mountain run.  The highest point would be the peak at about 1150+ masl. The route was wet because of the rain, most of the trail were slippery but thanks to my shoes and some balance, I only slipped once.  The route was muddy, rocky and some parts were sandy especially near the peak.

Due to the weather, there were only good views.  Though I also did not bring any camera. Elvin ran a "picture pace" and also brought a camera.  But even he did not see any good views.

The majestic Miyamit Falls

To tell the truth, I was waiting for the moment that I would burn out or lose interest in the run.  Fortunately, that moment didn't come.  Also for me this was the best trail run I ever did.  Probably because I held back at the start of the run due to my aching hamstring.

I paced the whole run with Dennis, but as we were making the last turn, we decided to have fun and sprint to the finish line.  We were joined by another friend (Ronnel Go, the birthday boy) during the sprint.  The three of us finished with identical times.

Sprint to the finish

I finished the run at a good 7hrs 44minutes.  This, as I have said, is by far the best trail run, performance-wise that I did.

Now I focus my eyes on the next big run.  The Clark to Miyamit 50mile run.  I know to have a repeat or improve my performace.  I would have to train harder and have a good race strategy.

The finisher's medal

credit photos to Elvin and Photo-ops

Ultimate Direction Anton Krupicka Race Vest Gear Review

This would be the first time I would be reviewing some gear.  This review reflects only my experience about the product.  I was not paid to review nor given free stuff, I bought this with my own money. So here goes...

First, please watch the introduction made by Anton Krupicka himself.

The video pretty much sums up the features of the pack.

The vest is light, and i mean crazy light, weighing at a measly 5 1/2 ounces.  The 2 bottles that are included when you buy it can store almost 1.2 Liters of fluid.  It has a compartment that expands thanks to its power mesh material a the bungee cord compression.  It also has 6 small pockets that is strategically placed around the pack.

Here are some pictures of my vest.

Front

Back

Now for some "hands on experience"

I have used the vest for 3 training runs/hike and I was thrilled that it worked perfectly.  I used it twice in the roads (16km and 26km LSD's) and a trail run/hike at Mt. Tarak (26km).  It felt like it was barely there.

Based on experience and past hydration packs, I can say that this is the best I've owned.  I previously owned a Sandugo Hydro, Deuter Race, Salomon XA20 and a The North Face Gunnison.  My problem with these packs is their shoulder straps irritate my neck area hence giving me chaffing.  With the UD AK Race Vest, that is not a problem because of its velvet hex material.  I can now go for a run with only a singlet on or nothing at all because of this.

With the pockets, I can bring multiple items.  I can store chocolate bars, gels, my emergency cash, my cellphone and other stuff.  With the big compartment at the back, I can stuff in a waterproof jacket, my change clothes and some solid food or even an additional hydration bladder.  And I haven't expanded my vest to it's full capacity yet so I know I can bring more.

What I also like about the vest is that it utilizes 2 20oz. bottles instead of a bladder that can be a pain in the a$$ refilling.  With these bottle, I can be completely refilled within a minute.  And I can also manage my hydration levels easily.

Lastly even with a full pack, the ventilation at the back seems pretty good.  Unlike that of my previous packs the materials make this vest very breathable and as Anton Krupicka demonstrated, you could blow through the material.

Here are some pictures of me and my vest in action.

Atop Shotgun Road

Atop Mt. Tarak Ridge

Different Hydration Packs (L - R): TNF Tenaya, TNF Gunnison, Ultimate Direction AK Race Vest, TNF Gunnison, Mountain Hardwear Fluid 10

Enjoying the trails

To sum it up, here are some pro's and con's

PRO's
1. Very lightweight
2. Very breathable
3. Velvet hex to avoid chaffing
4. Expanding main compartment
6. Six small pockets for other stuff
7. Has sizes (S/M & M/L)
8. Has reflectors all around the pack
9. Two easy to refill 20oz bottles
10. Two sternum straps for custom fitting

CON's
1. Does not have storage for trekking poles
2. If you are an Obsessive Compulsive and easily annoyed by any noise (like me) the swishing of the bottles would be hell.

All in all, I would definitely recommend this vest, at a retail price of Php 3,799 (and available only at Chris Sports Outlets), it's definitely a bang for the buck.  I would be giving it a 4.5 out of 5 score (It would be 5 out of 5, if it weren't for the swishing sound from the bottles)

What Tent Shall I Buy???

It's been some time since I have blogged, because I had nothing to blog about.  But since I have an infinite amount of free time nowadays, I thought of blogging about tents.  (I was planning to buy one)

So upon watching YouTube videos, I stumbled upon this...

Long haired Colonel Sanders just about sums up what are needed to be considered in choosing tents. I narrowed it down to 2 possible types, the dome type and the tadpole type.  The dome type offers a larger livable space, while the tadpole type offers the aerodynamic design.

So upon looking at different brands and different models, I came up with these 5 finalists that are readily available locally.

1. The North Face Tadpole 23

You can't go wrong with The North Face brands, what I like about this model is the ample amount of headroom and living space compared that of the local tadpole tents.  But alongside this tent is a steep price tag that I need to think thrice before purchasing.

2.  Mountain Hardwear Raven 2

Next up is the Mountain Hardwear Raven 2.  This is a dome type of tent, it offers a bigger living space than that of a tadpole tent but it is not as aerodynamically designed.  But as I found out from asking other team mates and other mountaineers, the dome type will suffice most mountains, and it is also a matter of pitching your tent securely to avoid being blown away or apart. Now as with The North Face Tadpole 23, this tent also comes with a steep price tag.  Although it is not as expensive as the former, a lot of thinking should still be considered if I am to purchase this one.

3.  Sierra Designs Zia 2



This is the Sierra Designs Zia tent, (the video shows the 3 person but it also comes with a 2 person tent).  Another dome type tent, this gives a larger living space because of it's extended side design.  a larger living space would mean a larger area on which to move about.  What I also like about this tent is that it comes with a free gear loft and groundsheet.

4.  Kelty Trail Ridge 2



Next is the Kelty Trail Ridge 2 tent, as with the Sierra Designs Zia video, it comes with a 2 person tent.  This is also a dome type tent, a slightly smaller headspace as with the Sierra Designs Zia 2 but larger than the Mountain Hardwear Raven 2.  This is the cheapest of all the dome type tents in this review.  It also comes with a free gear loft but with no groundsheet.  Which is fine because I can just tailorfit local materials that will be cheaper.

5.  Brown Trekker Tadpole

This is the last tent on my list, it is the cheapest of the 5 because it's a local brand.  Unfortunately, there are no video reviews for this tent.  But upon looking at the pictures, It is quite similar to the Apexus Tadpole but with a slight difference.  The Brown Trekker Tadpole tent looks similar to The North Face's Tadpole 23 with the mesh body.  It doesn't come with a groundsheet or gear loft but as stated, it is the cheapest of all the tens here.

I have summarized these tents dimensions.

Now what I look for in a tent is a good amount of living space, as much as possible 2 doors and 2 vestibules as to not to disturb your tent mate when going in and out of the tent.

So what tent should I buy?  My verdict?  I am leaning on purchasing the Kelty Trail Ridge 2 tent.  It is the cheapest among the dome type tents here with the characteristics I am looking for.

But who knows, I might go for another tent which is not here.  :D

credits to YouTube, ZapposGear, BackCountryEdge and Brown Trekker FB Page.

5th Bataan Death March 102K Ultra Marathon Race Review

In general, any form of exercise, if pursued continuously, will help train us in perseverance. Long-distance running is particularly good training in perseverance. - Mao Zedong

And so the day came, March 2, 2013.  I had a date with the road from Mariveles, Bataan leading up to San Fernando, Pampanga. The whole team except for Rhea was present (she had work).  Every body started arriving at our meeting place (Jollibee Farmers), Sir Tony, Elvin, Sir Ted, Goldy, Jonard, Joy, Roxanne, Dennis, JC, Tope, Rose, Joyce, Ralph, Chona and last and late as usual, Daniel arrived (we picked up Riz in San Fernando).  So it was set, the team headed to Mariveles. 

We and arrived around 8pm, with plenty of time to eat and change clothes since the run starts at 10pm. I ate pasta and drank coffee float to calm my nerves and for additional fuel.  That single Jollibee in Mariveles was crowded with runners and supporters. 

While at Jollibee

After eating, we headed back to where we were parked, geared up for the run posed for some photo ops, said a prayer then Elvin, Tope and I proceeded to the starting area while the support vehicles headed for the 7th km. 

Gameface On???

Team Rock and Road BDM 102 2013 Runners

The starting area was a small park dedicated to the prisoners who were forced to marched. Upon arriving at the starting area, everybody was buzzed in anticipation.  Photo ops here and there, I even saw Sir Larry Daliwag (the Ultrarunner I met at Shotgun Road who unknowingly enlightened me), just to release some of the tension.  Then the clock turned 10 pm, Sir Jovie said some reminders and encouragements then counted us off.

3,2,1.... the run started... said a short silent prayer which I normally do, then off I went.


Km 0 - 2 (Warming Up)

The first 2 km of the route was flat, which was great because i could do my warm up.  I tried to keep a 6 min/km in this part not minding the faster runners that passed by me.  The route was still pretty bright because we were still at Mariveles City so I turned off my headlight to save up on batteries.


Km 3 - 7 (The Uphill)

This was the dreaded uphill part of the route, It was more of a c6 route (Timberland) only, it was longer.  As a newbie would do, I ran-walked the length of the uphill route.  I was feeling strong at this part maintaining a good pace so I decided to run-walk.  I maintained a 4:1 run interval.  At the 7th km, our support team was waiting.


Km 8 - 10 (Minor Mishaps and the Case of the Missing Salt)

Upon arrival at the first support station, the support team were all out cheering. Which was good to boost our morale but being it was still early, they were still unprepared.  I had to cross the street to refill my hydration.  A team mate even debated with me that I should be the one crossing the street, which was a clear violation.  After getting my bottles, I went on my way.  I continued with my planned pace.  By the time I reached the 9th km, the support vehicle haven't passed me yet so I called them to check where they were.  

Call Me Maybe

They came a little passed the 10th km.  But still they were unprepared, by this time, with the adrenaline rush I had, I  got a bit angry.  I crossed the street again, looking for my hydration and salt.  But this time, there was a bit of problem, at the time I crossed the street, Madam was passing by.  As expected she gave an earful to us.  I crossed the street still waiting for some salt.  By the time Madam left, I called once for salt, nothing, I called the second time, still nothing, then third, fourth, fifth each call getting louder and louder.  Finally at the sixth time, I could not control myself anymore, I yelled and cursed for salt.  This time they heard me, after getting some salt, I continued on my way.

Km 11 - 15 (Sorry guys :(...)

After leaving the 2nd support station, I immediately thought of what I did.  Yes, it was in fact unnecessary, but I could not control myself with the adrenaline rush I had at the time.  So immediately at the next support station, I would say apologize to my team mates and specifically my personal support personnel.

Km 16 - 25 (Kuya Pahinga ka Muna!!!!)

This part of the route would pass through numerous bars and night clubs.  As expected there were many ladies saying "Kuya pahinga ka muna" or "Kuya inom ka muna"  I tied to run pass them even if it was already my walk break.  There were also drunk men walking along the streets.

Km 26 - 30 (First Wardrobe Change)

This part of the route was mostly rolling.  I was still keeping a relatively fast pace, so even though it was already midnight, it felt hot. I informed the team to prepare my clothes so that I could change.  At the 30th km, much to my surprise, my support team was there without the support van.  I asked them where the van was, and they told me that the van was already going back and forth to support Elvin and me.  I changed clothes and continued on my way.

Km 31 - 35 (Self realization)

After leaving my support team at the area, I started thinking.

"What if something happened to them, they were only 5 of them at the area"
"Should I continue running at this pace"

"Shall I continue to try to get a gold medal"

I decided after much thought.  I scrapped my plans for a gold medal so I could conserve more energy and so that  the support team would have an easier time supporting us.  It would be beneficial for the runners and support.  I deliberately ran slower than my planned pace.

Km 36 - 40 (ZZZZzzzzzzz)

The run started at 10pm, and  being a morning person, I started to get a bit sleepy. There were times that I would close my eyes while I was still running or walking.  I started to think o what to eat or drink so get rid of the sleepiness  At the next pitstop, I would drink coffee and eat some chocolates.  But sadly, that didn't work, I was still a bit sleepy.

Km 41 - 45 (COKE!!!!)

Somewhere between km 40 - 45, I passed by Ms. Jacky's support vehicle.  They offered me some food but the thing that caught my eye was the cold coke bottle.  I asked for some and immediately after ingesting, the sleepiness went away.

With Ryan Moral and COKE!!!

At the next support station, I asked for some coke from the team.  It was no fluke, the coke woke me up.  I told my team that I would drink coke every support station from now on.

Km 46 - 50 (Halfway There!!)

At this point, I was getting a bit hungry, luckily, I was near the halfway mark.  At the halfway mark, I ate some rice, adobo and egg.  At this time, Elvin also caught up with me.  I also asked for our other teammate Tope who was also running.

Km 51 - 55 (Plantar Fasciitis and Second Wardrobe Change)

After leaving the halfway point, I started to feel pain in my feet.  Yes it was my old friend Plantar Fasciitis. So at the 55th km, I made a second wardrobe change complete with change of footwear. I also took in some Mefenamic Acid to help minimize the pain.

Km 56 - 60 (Stomach Cramps and a Walkathon)

Unfortunately, the medicine offered little or no help at all.  So to minimize the pain a bit more, I walked the whole 5 kms.  I was in no hurry, after all, the cut-off for the silver medal was 16 hrs, I have only ran a little over 8 hrs at this point.  Stomach cramps was also building up which made it a bit difficult to run, hence the walkathon.

Petiks petiks

Km 61 - 70 (Secondwind!!!!)

At the 60th km support station, I asked for some liniment to be applied on my legs.  I then thought of putting some on my abdomen.  It was only the second time I applied some liniment on myself during a race.  Surprisingly, seconds after leaving the support station, I began to feel energized.  Could this be my second wind, I tried to run, it felt good, the pain in my feet disappeared as well as the stomach cramps.  I ran at a faster pace I did at the start of the run and closed the gap between me and Elvin.  By the 70th km, the team told me that I was already in front of Elvin (He did a number 2, :D)

Km 71 - 90 (A Seesaw and the Tope Crisis)

Elvin and I would seesaw in the next kilometers.  Sometimes he would come first some times I would come first at a support station.  We were just going through the motions of the race.

But it was at this time we learned that one of us would not reach the cut-off time.  Tope did not reach 50 km in 9 hrs.  More importantly, he was missing, the other support team cannot find him.  We were beginning to get worried.  Fortunately, just about the 80th km, he was found by the other support team.  The way he was found is however a different story.

Running along

Eating some watermelons

Km 90 - 100

By the 90th km, the other support team also joined us, the cast was complete and was cheering on which gave us more strength to finish the run.  We were already eating and drinking whatever we wanted.  I was also finding some other to drink either than Red Gatorade and Elvin was also finding something to drink either than Pocari Sweat.  At the 100km, we would also make our final wardrobe change.

Good running form near the finish

Jump shot near the 100th km

Km 101 - Finish (102km)

After the wardrobe change, I ran off to the finish with Elvin just right behind me.

Finally, after 15 hrs 4 mins and 22 secs

I completed the BDM 102

102km finished

Photo with the Race Director Sir Jovie

After less than a minute, Elvin also finished

Team Rock and Road BDM 102 Finishers

Then the photo ops resumed!

Team Rock and Road

The A-Team

Wasak

With that I would like to thank the following:

God Almighty for giving me strength to finish.
My Parents without them, there wouldn't be a me, hehe
Sir Jovie Narcise for making such an event.
My Personal Support Team: Goldy, Riz, Joy, Jonard and JC for giving me what I needed during the run
The rest of Team Rock and Road: Daniel, Chona, Sir Ted, Dennis, Roxanne, Rose, Joyce, Sir Tony, Ralph and Rhea (Who was not present because of work) for supporting us and motivating us
Sir Jeff Lo of Pinoy Fitness and Ms. Mars Callo because if there was no Pinoy Fitness, there would be no Team Rock and Road
Sir Larry Daliwag for planting the seed of BDM in my mind
My adopted OK OK Family for the support during the run
Ms Jacky, Ryan Moral and the rest of their support for the support during the run
Philip and Jose for the nice pictures
Sir Radge Vocal for the ice cold coke at km 88
And to the other Support Crew who unselfishly gave us water and other needs


Finally, if asked given a chance would I do it again.  My answer would be a definite YES!
And if also asked if I would join next year's BDM 160, this is what i got to say...


The training has already started....