- Malaysia Energizer Night Race 2012 -

 A short review from one of our Freaks. She's not there to run, but as a loving supporter to her hubby .....  

• Last weekend, we drove up 250km to Melaka with some friends - more like brothers, actually, to meet another friend - another one who is more like a brother, then we all hopped into his car and he drove us all to Sepang F1 Circuit for a night marathon. *am I confusing you already?*

• Bad news - our car air-con unit broke down just before the trip. Imagine road tripping in the 40℃/104℉ without air-con. 
• Good news - no tantrum. A little bit of complaining, especially from me. What do you expect? I was wearing my jeans *bad choice* and sweating like a pig at places you don't even wanna think about. That, and my chocolate melted before I got the chance to eat them.
• Good news - our hotel was gorgeous (Arenaa De Luxe Hotel)! Lemme show you! The staggered canvas is my absolute favorite!

• Good news - the car we took from Melaka to Sepang has air-con!! Hurrah!! Thank you William for driving us and saving my ass from melting. LOL. One mirror shot before we leave. . . by this time, the kids were a little bit cranky and I don't blame them. Ha!

- 1 shot before we hit the road -

•  Two hours later, we reached Sepang and were greeted with one of the most amazing sunset. *sigh* I can't get enough sunsets, ever! Just look at that!

- That awesome sunset !!! -

• And then off he go.  I don't quite like that I can't go down to their level and had to shoot from above. But I must admit, it's something different, a larger view and not all bad anyway. *sigh* Look at that, as if running a marathon is not hard enough, they're doing it in the dark. Runners were provided with headlights, but he can't stand having anything on his head so he threw his back at us and ran without it.

- The KING at start point -

•  Then while waiting, we bought burgers and chicken nuggets and drinks from the single vendor available there. And we waited. . and waited, and tried our best entertaining the kids. LOL. 

• Good news - he came back slightly under 4 hours. Not his personal best, but hey, I'll take it. 

- Him at the finish line -

•  I love that he's looking at our direction while 10 feet away from the finish line. :) ♥

- The FREAKS !!! -

•  Good news - he was 6th to finish in the Men Junior Veteran category. You bet that tag is going into my Project Life album.

• Bad news - we were made to wait for more than an hour, without being told that the prizes were only for the top 5 runners. He was okay with it, I was not. Ha! And no one came to tell us that we can go so we were left waiting until I made Mr.Husband go and ask someone, anyone.
• Good news - I have my brothers and my family with me while waiting. Time spent with them is always good news. Even if it was at 1am. Even if it was at 4am when we stopped for supper/breakfast before going back to our hotel to sleep!
• The next day - or later that day - whichever way you look at it, was spent shopping, eating, eating and eating and that suits me so well. Better than running. :)) It was a great trip. So glad I have the people I have.
• This is a novel, no? If you're still here.. thank you!! You're a hero for reading it all! LOL. I'll see you soon!!

*Words and pics are credited to Sasha Farina. 

Do visit her blog for more interesting updates and stories.

- Run350 2012: Reviewed by Ronald Heng -

 

My Fiancée (Eileen) and I reached the race site (The Float@Marina) in the early morning Sunday at 4:30am. It was her 1st half-marathon race in her entire life. Initially, Eileen was worried that she could not finish her 21 km race as she did not do any race more than 10 km distance. However, I told her that she was going to make it to the finish line as she had LSD trainings with us (Freedom Freaks) previously and had increased her longest distance mileage to about 25 km.  Before the race was started, both Eileen and I linked up with Jeff, his girlfriend (Yingshan), Chee Wah and Jeremy at the baggage deposit area.  After depositing our stuff at baggage counter, we immediately did our warming-up & stretching exercises and then heading to the 21km start line. 

- With the gang -

Near to the start line, I met up with bro Izat and wished him all the best in his race. I told him that he sure can finish his race in sub-1:30 hour due to the recent's improvement in his training at MacRichie Reservoir with Sam E, Yaoming, Asree, Izhar and other FF runners.

Bro Izat then asked me for my target time. I replied to him that sub-1:40 hour would be good enough for me because I had been putting on weights this year and also did not do much LSD trainings with FF runners.  Hence, it was quite unlikely to do a new PB time for me, I thought so.

At the start line, I felt privilege to position myself together with our well-known Singapore elite marathoners like Ashley Liew, Anne Date, Ivan Low, Izat and other fast runners.

- Being with the super elites !! -

Soon, the 1st wave of 21 km race was flagged off at 6:00 am sharp. Izat bro was then immediately flew off like an rocket. Cool right? Hahaha!  I ran and met up with Anne Date during my 1st km run. To make myself feel like an elite runner in that competitive race, I then quickly speed up my pace and ran beside her. Hehehee!  At that time, we were running together at a pace of 3:43 mins/km. But I told myself that I should not push too hard above my usual pace/speed from the start because I would easily hit my wall early and eventually slowed down my overall performance. Hence, I began to slow down my current pace to about 4:30 mins/km and kept focus on my run with a steady and comfortable pace.

- Chasing the elites -

Throughout my run, I managed to hit my objective timings for the various distance markers (5km in 21m 55s, 10km in 45m 38s and 15km in 1h 09m 19s) and finally I crossed the finish line with a new PB time of 1h 37m 09s (average pace 4:37 mins/km). That was 3 seconds faster than my previous PB which I achieved in SAFRA Army Half-Marathon 2011. My overall rank position was among top 50 finishers, that is, 43 out of 2997 runners. Honestly speaking, the feeling was awesome!

- Sprinting to the finish line -

 

- My official result -

After the race, Eileen and I found ourselves at the baggage deposit area. I was very happy to know that she did 2h 40m 08s for her debut 21km race. I must say that her timing was good and respectable, especially for non-seasoned runner like her. But I think she has the potential to run as fast as me. Hahaha! :D

- After the run -

- We're a happy couple !!! -

My upcoming races in May 2012 are MetaSprint Series (Triathlon), Trifactor Swim 1.5 km and lastly Sundown Marathon 42km.  Hope things will be fine and go smoothly. Safety always comes first and timing comes second.  

- RUN350 2012. As reviewed by Selly Selina -

"Run 350 is Singapore's premier eco-run in support of the global 350 movement, which aims to lower atmospheric CO2 levels to 350 parts per million, which scientists believe is the safe level for Earth’s sustainability."

In its third year running, the 2012 race took place on April 22nd, coinciding with Earth Day. Perfect!

- The flag-off - (pic courtesy of Eye-See-Eye-Shoot)

Being a second-time participant (10K last year, and decided to try the spanking-new 21K category this time around), I totally enjoyed the race route despite most of it being reminiscent of the nightmarish 2XU Compression Run on April Fool's Day. The difference is that the race organizers this time around made sure the paths were wider so there was decent breathing space around.

Each water point was well-stocked, the volunteers were terrific (some even crossed the running path repeatedly just to hand out water to runners on the opposite side), medal-collecting post-race was not painful, and the finisher shirt design for Half-Marathoners was awesome.

I especially appreciated the environmentally friendly tips on standees scattered all over the route. It truly gave me a "feel good" factor to be reminded all along the way that I'm running towards saving our beloved planet.

- The shaky platform - (pic courtesy of Tan Kim Lai)

Can't really complain about anything except maybe for the shaky platforms placed over some grassy areas at around KM 7 or so. These caused quite a number of sprains and tumbles amongst the runners, including yours truly! Soon after I regained my balance, this poor chap took a big, nasty fall right in front of me. Where I tripped, two other ladies were already seated on the grass getting their ankles iced by the medic. Very, very dangerous!

- Peace. The signature pose - (pic courtesy of Tan Kim Lai)

Despite that one negative point, I am thoroughly glad that I ran this year's Run 350 race. Well done, Young NTUC! And not to forget, I gotta say thank you to Mr Sun for being very kind to us runners that day.
Last but not least, the usual group pic with some of the FREAKS !!!

- WE ARE THE FREAKS !! - (pic courtesy of Kash)

- Sundown Marathon 2012 Race Routes -

Below are the official release of the race routes for the fifth edition of the Sundown Marathon.
It will be a run in the city to remember! The scenic route will take you past prominent landmarks like Suntec City, The Float@Marina Bay, The Fullerton Hotel, Marina Barrage and onto Nicoll Highway.

- 10km Route map -

- 21km Route map -

- 42km Route map -

 Official release from Sundown Marathon 2012 organizers:
Sundown Marathon 2012 will take place on 26 to27 May 2012 with a brandnew race route that is set to thrill participants. This is the first-­-ever marathon that will take runners on a scenic route through the Marina Bay Waterfront area and the western region of Singapore.
 

Three race routes (42km, 21km and 10km) have been carefully mapped out to let runners conquer the beautiful urban landscape of The Float@Marina Bay, Fullerton Hotel, Marina Barrage and the iconic KTM Tanjong Pagar Railway Station.

Another piece of history in the making for the fifth edition of the Sundown Marathon is the experience of running along the West Coast Highway, past VivoCity and towards West Coast Park. Thereafter, runners will make a return trip towards the finishing point.

The 10km race will flag off at 9.30pm, while the 21km will start at 11.30pm on 26 May 2012. Participants of the 42km race will take their spot at the starting line at 12.45am on 27 May.

Over 25,000 participants have already registered for Sundown Marathon 2012, making it one of the most eagerly anticipated sporting events on the local sporting calendar. To welcome more runners, race organiser, HiVelocity Events Pte Ltd, has extended the registration date to 19 April 2012. The current registration fees for the three categories stand at S$55(10km), $65(21km) and $85(42km).

A run at any time of the day can do you good. But a night run after sundown carries that extra magical feel to it. Runners will experience a quietness and calmness that comewith running at night. With the night lights of the majestic Lion City whizzing past with every step, it will be a night to remember.

“Coming into our fifth edition of the Sundown Marathon, we wanted a change and allow the runners to experience and enjoy our unique city skyline at night. Runners can choose from three challenging distances and routes to challenge their endurance,” said Mr. Ben Wee, General Manager from HiVelocity Events Pte Ltd.

“While it is great for runners to set new personal best timings, the aim of the Sundown Marathon has always been to promote running as a lifestyle activity that can benefit both the young and the young at heart. We welcome more runnerson 26 May and together, we will create a new chapter in Singapore’s running scene and for Sundown Marathon.” Sundown Marathon 2012 is proudly brought to you by event organiser, HiVelocity Events Pte Ltd.

For more information on the Sundown Marathon, please visit the official event website at www.sundownmarathon.com.

 

- Review on VFF Spyridon: By Wan Albedo -

- Just out from the box - 

Recently, Vibram introduced their first trail running–specific model, the Spyridon LS. The Spyridon LS is supposed to provide the perfect balance of 'foot feel' and protection on rugged surfaces. The shoe weighs in at 7.2 ounces (EU 43) and has a 3.5mm Vibram rubber sole that provides impact protection from stones and debris, while better allowing proper barefoot dynamics.

 

For those who love running at uneven terrain trail etc, but afraid to go with minimalist approach due to ground resistance, pebbles or sharp rocks, this new release, Spyridon LS from VFF will solve that problem. They introduce a thicker sole with tread that will allow your foot to have a better grip during your runs at your favorite trail by still retaining the uniqueness, flexibility and the barefoot experience. Slightly similar to Komodo and KSO but this new release provide a slightly better armor underfoot. 

 

- I'm sexy and I know it !! -

After running a total of 27Km with it for the past 3 days on my test runs, I only have positive comments. I felt it has a better grip and reasonably stable than my favorite Komodo. I felt pretty comfortable. Next, I'm planning to test this during my hiking trip up MT Rinjani. I will tell you more. The only CON is that I hate the lace system.

 

- Lovely !! -

 

Specifications

Materials:

UPPER - Stretch Mesh and Polyamide 

SOLE - XSTrek Vibram Rubber

FOOTBED - 3mm Polyurethane Insole Anti-Microbial Dri-Lex Sockliner

Machine washable. Air dry.

Weight:

Men's size 44 - 6.88oz. each, 13.76oz./pair

 

- Sundown Marathon Race Entry Pack Collection -

Hello guys,
do take note on the dates for Sundown Marathon 2012 racepack collection.
The organizer called the event as ' RunBikeSwim Expo.'
Many sports items, particularly running stuffs will be on sale during that period.
Pick up your race kit at the RunBikeSwim Expo, where sports enthusiasts connect with innovative equipment and sports fashion. 
Click here for more infos.

Details
Date:	11 – 13 May 2012 (Friday – Sunday)
Time:	11.00am – 8.00pm
Venue:	Singapore Expo, Hall 4B 1 Expo Drive (S) 486150
Admission:	Free

- 2XU Compression Run 2012: As reviewed by Adeline -

1st April 2012 2XU Compression Run. By coincident that was also April Fools' day. I was hoping it was a joke though because I was completely not ready for this run. I have been down for weeks due to viral flu and cough, only started getting back on the road just few days before the race.

I was telling Asree about it that i am nervous but he encourages me to go slow and easy and forget about the timing.  He managed to get a bib from Johan who cannot participate in the run and he called me up and said, "Don't worry, I will pace you. Just go for it !"

- My friend, my pacer !! -

Though I felt a little relief but butterflies still fluttering in my stomach.
The night before the race was terrifying one for me. I told myself I have to eat well, and so I gobbled a big plate of pasta hoping that it will reserve the energy in my body for the run the next day.

Finally the day was here. Asree and myself arrived 1 hour before the  start of the race. It was planned so that I can find a parking lot and most importantly to do some warm up and stretching.
My nervousness did not go away and Asree could see it from my expression . He kept assuring me that it will be fine. At that moment I felt like vomitting, my mind was fuzzy, my stomach was making strange sounds and my legs were rubbery, it doesn't seem that those legs belong to me. I kept telling myself to be cool and calm, is just a run, no big deal.

- Us with Halim Billijoe before the run -

We met Halim BillieJoe at the tentage area where bags had to be deposited. It was still early I guess as the queue wasn't very long.  The crowd started pouring in around 6.30am and you can see lots of runners wearing the 2XU tees. Some of them were very well dressed in their running attire.
Suddenly, I noticed there was this guy who is wearing a golden wig which looks like a crown, walking past. All eyes were on him . I guess he wanted the attention and he was smiling with pride from the overwhelming onlookers.

We started to warm up and getting ready to the start point. Streams of people also started moving along. "Body to body", you could smell all the awful BO from all these people. Even though it was an open area, I felt suffocated among them and I could hardly breathe because of the BO. The air was stale and still !!

- Looking cool even though I'm feeling nervous -

The DJ as usual was trying to create enthusiam for this event. Seriously, I was hoping that he could just cut the crap and get us going . Finally he announced that the race is gona start in 5 mins  and a loud horn signalled the start of the race.
Yes this is it !!!

The first 5km was slow and steady. My enthusiam sets in and I told myself that I should be able to complete it in 1 hr 30 mins. After we past 7km , my calves started to hurts. I looked around and discovered many runners were already walking and catching their breath. It was a terrible mistake I made, to use VFF during training few days before the run. I should instead train with the pair of shoe that I will be using for the race. Nevertheless the pair of Nike Air Max with thick cushioning doesn't help much . My calves began to beg me not to go on.

I tolerated and went very slowly . Every water point seem to be my saviour because this was the chance that I could rest my feet and at the same time to quench my thirst rather than  to hydrate my body. I have to say that the logistics were well organised with many Pocari/water points along the route.

- Slow and steady .... -

The patience Asree had to keep pushing me all the way and reminding me that we are approaching the end soon was over-whelming. I was telling myself that there still another 5km more , how could we be reaching to the finishing line soon?
I guessed, he was just trying his best to motivate me .....

The route was familar as I remembered the same route I did in 2011 for The Shape Run. It was scenic . Many runners just stopped to take photographs, I guess these are the people who wants to enjoy the journey but not caring about the results. Bravo !!

In view of the excruciating pain on my calves and ankle, I had to stop 3 times along the way for medical assistance. The first aiders were so readily to help us when needed.
As the last 1km was approaching, I should be feeling relief and happy but instead I felt lost. The finishing line was nearing and yet I felt lost? Can you believe it?!
Maybe the  pain was too overwhelming that I cannot even think or react properly.

At long last, I reached the finish line and proceeded to collect the most talked about medal.  I noticed that I had completed the run in 2hours 14 mins 39 sec.  I was disappointed as i know the timing was indeed bad. However the consoling part was that I have completed the race despite much suffering and a friend pacing me with so much encouragement; "A friend in need, is a friend indeed". Truely with the FREEDOM FREAKS' motto, they will "Leave no one behind".

- With the coveted medal !! -

Last but not least, all the FF members that took part in the run gathered and took our most memorable photos together before we dismissed from the scene.

- With the FREAKS !!! -

- 2XU Compression Run 2012: As reviewed by Selly -

This event had a 15km and 10km option and attracted quite a number of runners – drawn by the promise of a 2XU gear perhaps? They should have checked the website because unlike last year, only a running vest and shorts (the latter being an option to purchase) was offered.

The 2XU Compression Run promised a nice route, with a convenient start point just outside of the Nicoll Highway MRT station.

- Runners @ start point. Pic courtesy of Running Shots. - 

Here we got 2 FREAKS giving their review on the run that they did on that day.

First, we have Selly with what she thought about the event:

The 2XU Compression Run 2012. It's fated that this was going to be my kick-off race for this year, so naturally I was looking forward to it.

When the organizers, Pink Apple, announced the date for this year, I remember thinking initially that I wouldn't sign up. Somehow, I had a bad feeling about it but I couldn't point my finger as to why I felt as such. I did run the 2011 edition, and the only thing I could remember was that my timing was better than expected, hehehe .... 

And so when my KL friends announced that they were coming my way for this race, I thought it would be fun for us to run and camwhore together. 

On the morning of the run, as I was squeezing my way through a sea of thousands of runners (apparently there were 10,000 for the 15K category alone!) it all came back to me. Conditions were similarly cramped last year, and I swore not to come back this year.

Why oh why did I? We were all forced to share only one lane on the road (read: ridiculously crowded!), forced to fight for our spot not just with other 15K racers but the 10K ones as well (read: ridiculously crowded!!), and certain parts of the route had us shoved into sidewalks that were two-persons wide (read: ridiculously crowded!!!).  

 

I mean, seriously, I reckon even The Almighty would be disappointed with the lack of brainpower used while planning this race for us runners who've paid good money to run it.

- Peace. Pic courtesy of Running Shots -

That's the problem right there. Money. Singapore race organizers have become so greedy, wanting more and more participants to sign up but not not bothering to improve their offerings and services.

- With Malaysian kakis -

Heck, in this case Pink Apple didn't even have the decency to use quality timing device that wouldn't come off during the race. So many timing strips from the back of our bibs were spotted all along the route, and I was disappointed to find mine missing after I'd already crossed the finishing line. I'd better not have 'DQ' as my official result as a result of this!

- My trademark pose, copyrights pending -

It didn't help that Mr Sun was more cruel than usual throughout the race; it was so hot that twelve hours on my body still felt the heat.
It also didn't help that we were flagged off 15 minutes later than scheduled all because the officiating VIP didn't have the courtesy to arrive on time, which forced tens of thousands of runners more time in the sun than we signed up for.

Having said that, I did journey on for another 7+ klicks after the race to complete my prescribed LSD for the weekend. Although I started it about three hours after flag-off (read: EVEN HOTTER CONDITIONS!!!), I gotta say that I enjoyed it way more than the race; it was so liberating without the sea of runners cramping my space!

- This was 1 klick into our post-2XU Compression Run 15K race run. Pic courtesy of Tan Kim Lai -

Thank goodness the supply of hydration throughout the route was aplenty, and that the medal-collection process post-race was painless.

Anyway, I guess it's apt that this race was held on April Fool's Day, because the joke's on all of us who ran it... 

Especially returning runners like moi!