Category: Running

First thing is first….What a beautiful day for a half marathon! Congratulations to everyone out there who gave it their all today! I hope everyone had a great experience.

Next, the race pack collection and expo which was held at the KLCC which was packed even on the last day with both nervous and excited supporters. It was a bonus to pick up the race pack in record time. Somehow, from out of the blue…..I bumped into my running buddy all the way from Indonesia, Muthmainnah Amri, I met her during our run last year in Lombok International Marathon. We were excited and thrilled…We hugged and exchanged our joy and fears and happiness and then wished each other all the best and parted!

RACE DAY:

The morning of the race is always incredibly tense. As always I had butterflies in my tummy. 3.45am is a ridiculous time of day. Particurlarly on a Sunday. But today, I was awake at 3.45am and had to fully embrace the ridiculousness of it! Because today is the Standard Chartered KL Marathon- the most anticipated race of 2017….just imagine 36,000 runners……woot woot!

We took a slow walk from our hotel to Dataran Merdeka. Once 5.00am rolled around, everyone started heading to their designated pen. My hubby was in pen 3 and I was in pen 4- for 21km Honda Half Marathon, about 10,000 runners and things can get a little congested. At sharp 5.30am, we were flagged off. I waited in line for almost 12 minutes just to get to the starting line. Over the loud speaker, we could hear the race started and the elite runners began. Once we started going, I was so excited, I don’t know why I was giddy, but I just was all by myself, smiling while I was running. I was soaking up the fact of how completely blessed I am to be able to run. I can’t describe to you the feeling you get when you see the city streets blocked off for you with volunteers cheering you on. It’s the most amazing experience.

Throughout the half marathon, there were multiple things that surprised me along the route and helped me understand why runners rave about SCKL Marathon. The first mile brought the first delight-no bottlenecking! The entire course was very wide so there were no bottlenecking, a welcome change from many races I ran in Malaysia.

The second mile brought the first of many delights- water stations and porta-porties all along the routes. Due to the wide course of the water stations and isotonic stations, never got in the way and runners could easily run to one side of the road to avoid them. The volunteers at these stations were so friendly, offering support in addition to water and also first Aid and medic support.

The first several miles were great! I felt good. Breathing and legs were working together. The hills weren’t too bad, but I knew what was ahead. A gradual incline with only noticable inclines near AKLEH Highway and the Tugu Negara.

At one point, we were out running on a pretty main road in KL City. It was great to see drivers on the otherside of the road with their windows down watching us and grinning. Shouting support for people that they didn’t even know.

The route was altered slightly after that. We got to run through Tugu Negara-and iconic landmark in Malaysia which was awesome! However, the hill, how do I put this…… a nightmare! I could actually feel runners around me going “Ohhhh NOoooooooooo” as we climbed out…..But we soldiered on….After winding around through parts of Jalan Tugu Negara and Padang Merbok, I suddenly felt something shift in my body. If you’ve ever heard a runner talk about “hitting the wall” or “bonking”, that was exactly what happened! At the 18km, my body just quit on me. Then, I’d switched gears in my brain…..It’s all about mental running now! “I got this! I got this! I am not going to stop! I can do this! I can! I will!” Phew…somehow, I was able to re-focus!

20 km went by in a bit of painful blur. I was just focused on keeping my legs moving. I kept repeating my mantra…”Don’t quit! Don’t quit!”

Then at the 500 metres mark to go, I saw my fellow buddies the KLCC Runners- Thank you Matthew Barsing for being there! They were cheering, clapping, dancing and shouting for us! There is always something weird that happens in a runner’s body when you know you are approaching the finish line. There is always this weird reserve energy that comes out. You speed up and use everything you have left (you may have heard runners call this “the kick”) and that’s what happened…..

I did it! I made it! I finished it! I was ecstatic…. Tears of joys just flowed through my cheeks, while I lined up gratefully and accepted my much deserved 21 km Honda Half Marathon medal, picked up my goodie bag and went off in search of my “sole mate” my darling hubby, Segar who finished 21km Half marathon in 2 hours and 17 mins.. We didn’t hang around long. Took a few photos and headed back home.

The race organization was spot on! I have not a single bad thing to say, well maybe some school kids- cheerleaders or marching band/ choir along the lonely route would have helped motivate and push the runners. LOL….Otherwise, the water stations were exactly where they were supposed to be, the markers were sufficient, signages were really motivating and awesome, the transition from getting your medal to collecting the goodie bag was so seamless and hassle free. A huge KUDOS and congratulations dear organisers for a race well run!

With that said, good job to each and everyone of you for actually being out there running, walking or crawling! YOU ALL DID AWESOME!!

While the PBs and race medals are nice to have, running has taught me more about life than I could ever possibly imagine. It’s transformed my world- and I’m still just a beginner. When I became a “runner” something changed…not immediately…but over time. I started to see things differently, feel things in another way and grew in ways I didn’t even know I needed too.

Running changes you in ways you didn’t even know were possible. For me running made a dramatic difference in my life…How so? Well, I divulge.

• THE SPEEDING UP CAN HELP SLOW DOWN 

It is kind of natural and easy way to slow my thoughts down and help me function at a more even level. It helps align my thoughts and be stronger!

• THAT HOLDING ON CAN HELP YOU LET GO

Our everyday responsibilities can get the best of us- the-to-do list that never end, the constant demands…How do you get away from it all? How do you make time for you? For me, setting a goal or signing up for a race, helps me let go of all the other things I “should” be doing and focus on what I “needed” to do for me.

• THAT GOING ALONE IS GOOD FOR THE COLLECTIVE SOUL

I love my running partner-my hubby- Let’s just put that out there. There are many times when he holds me accountable and in fact he gives me a reason to look forward to running. That being said there is something about being out there on the open road alone. I am a mother of 3 children whom I love dearly but there are times when the only “me” time I get is when I am out on a run. Even when there is a hard day or I don’t want to go. I try to remember that the run is necessary for me to be a better mom, wife, daughter, sister and friend and so I lace up and head out the door.

• THAT YOU CAN IN FACT RUN AWAY FROM YOUR PROBLEMS

You will be amazed, how much more you can align your thoughts and feelings after a run. Something happens out there on the road….on your own…it all calms down and yet all comes together. Life just doesn’t feel as scary after your run. You come back refreshed and adjusted.

Something happens when your feet hit the pavement…your problems seem to melt off your soles and set everything right with your soul!

Happy Running and all the best for Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2017

Mother is another name for love………

I dedicate this virtual run to my mum and all mothers, in conjunction with Mother’s Day!

I run because I can and for as long as I can and I will! Well, I know it sounds a little crazy, but here’s my story and and here’s my reason:-

Well, you see…….four years ago, my life came crashing down and it took a 360 degree turn- my sister, Joanne and I were devasted. We discovered that our mum was diagnosed with breast cancer. We truly felt like we were in the midst of a nightmare and we could not wake up. And that was the start of our huge emotional rollercoaster ride.

So, why do I run? I wanted to find myself, see what my body and mind is capable of, self-confidence, good role model for my children, sanity and of course health! So for me, it wasn’t about being skinny or to win a race, it is more a mental challenge and it has taught me to be a strong, confident person just like my mum, Eunice Philomena Beins.

I believe behind each participant or runner is a story of love, hope and courage that inspires each one of us to support to the finish line.

I dedicate this virtual run to my darling mum and all the mothers out there! We are not just running mums but we are also super mums and at times, wonder woman too…We make people wonder…..LOL!

There are a number of emotions that are attached to the finish line….There is that sense of completion, accomplishment, satisfaction, heartbreak, disappointment, elation and joy! Running in races or virtual races have a way of exposing your weaknesses while also highlighting your strenghts. The finish line may mark the end of the race, but for me, it can also mark the beginning of a longer journey ahead!

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

One of the worst feelings in the world is to walk up to your car after you have completed a half or full marathon or a fun run and see shattered glass all around where your window used to be. Having your personal belongings stolen out of your vehicle can make you feel violated and vulnerable. There is no way to completely stop anyone from breaking into your car, but here are some tips to help prevent car break-ins during your races and marathons:-

TIPS FOR RUNNERS:-

1.  When you signed up for a race, ensure you park at the designated parking space which the event organisers has assigned to the participants. If you have to pay a certain amount of fee, just do it! Better be safe than sorry!
2. When you go for your race- NEVER EVER carry or bring cash or any valuable items with you.(If you have to, stick money or a credit card into your pocket or shoe;( just in case, you might need it)
3. NEVER EVER leave laptops, cash, mobile phones or any valuable items or documents in your car.
4. Always, Always park your vehicle at bright litted areas and ensure that there is security guards or cctv.
5. If you have to bring your personal belongings, leave it at the luggage/baggage counter provided by the event organisers.

TIPS FOR ORGANISERS:-

1. As runners and participants, we put our trust and faith in your event, please kindly ensure safety and security for all your runners and participants not only on road running but for their cars and vehicles as well. When you assigned a designated car park for the event, ensure it is protected and looked after by your staff or RELA or Polis Bantuan. There’s been many cases of car break-ins during races and marathons and it is becoming worst week by week!
2. We, the runners pay a certain amount of fee to support and participate in your running event, all we asked from the organisers:-

• Safe running conditions on roads/trails
• Ensure RELA/Marshalls/ traffic police are on duty from the start of the event until the end
• Assign RELA/Staff to look and guard the runners vehicles until event is over (especially during the night runs/trails and marathons)
• Hire additional manpower or set up a safety committee

Car break-ins, window smashing of vehicles, theft are on the rise! Do not allow these criminals to strike again! Please beef up the security!

As the saying goes….”Sepandai-pandai tupai melompat, akhirnya akan jatuh ke tanah juga”! Dear Runners and event organisers, Let’s work hand in hand to prevent and put a stop to these crimes!

Running is that time you have all to yourself, isn’t it? It’s the ultimate “me” time, when you can be at one with nature and get away from it all, when you can reflect on life’s important matters or even when you can push your body to the absolute limit in glorious, miserable solitude.

Well, deciding to join a running club is one of the best things that any runner, whatever level, can do! That’s what I did! I joined the KLCC Runners Group! The club rocks and its super duper awesome!

I had the chance to speak to Matthew Barsing, KLCC Runners Group leader over a cuppa coffee at Trader’s Hotel overlooking the sensational KLCC park. Matthew shared his hopes, dreams, goals and his passion and he told me, “we all run for different reasons, whether it’s to lose weight, keep passably fit or in some cases, to enter and maybe even win and be a podium winner in races. But KLCC Runners Group- whatever the motivation for lacing up the trainers and hitting the roads and trails, there’s a compelling reason why being a member of KLCC Runners Group can help make running even better. KLCC Runners Group values relationships and connecting people to do sports together is our mission.”

Here’s some reasons why running and joining KLCC Runners Group can be beneficial for you:-

1. You get to make new friends and meet new people
2. You stay motivated with your trainings and exercise
3. You get to share your knowledge of running with the other runners in the group
4. You learn new things and secrets about running from others
5. You are constantly challenged to run faster and farther.

In conjunction of KLCC Runners Group’s 1st Anniversary, come join us for the 1st anniversary run- what an awesome way to celebrate- Running with the stars @ Sunsuria City, Sepang on the 7th May from 6.30 to 9.30am. There will be a 5km and 7km non competitive run. For more information, please log in to myraceonline.com to register now!

KLCC Runners Group, which celebrated their first anniversary on May 1st have grown from only 1000 members to 25 000 members and held 83 free events. They also have their own #KLAPP app (on both Android and IOS) This app is awesome! Download it now and stay in the loop for news and views!

How can you be part of this running revolution? It’s as simple and easy as ABC- just “like” KLCC Runners Group at https://m.facebook.com/klccrunners

HAPPY FEET! HAPPY ME! HAPPY RUNNING!

A running buddy is more than just someone who runs next to you. A running buddy is someone who pushes you, motivates you and supports you through all the joys and struggles of running.I am blessed because I have those “SOLE – MATES” in my life.

Mile after mile, she’s always willing to go the distance, understanding you on a different level- She is my “sole-mate”….who???

What made Score Run 2017 extra special? I had the chance to run with Siew Kiem, my “Sole-sista” for the last run in Malaysia before she leaves to Myanmar to stay and work with her hubby dearest, Terence.

The race started at 5.30am, the 21km flag off was on time! About 5000 runners participated for the 21KM Half Marathon. Not only these awesome runners “conquered ths city”, these awesome runners even “conquered the hills” in the city! The route was really a challenging, hilly route for the 21 KM Half Marathon. All I can say is…No pain, No gain!

Just before the 12 KM flag off, I messaged Siew Kiem, wished her happy running and see her after the race…Off we went at sharp 6.00am!

The route for 12 KM was good. It was a thrill to be running in the city- the heart of the city center, passing through iconic buildings, running on the streets of Kuala Lumpur, smack in the middle of KL City! In deed, what an experience! It really felt that “we came, we saw, we conquered”- Veni, Vidi, Vici” Woot woot…..

Distance markers were well placed, water stations were plenty and were very well organised. Marshals did an awesome job, as promised by the organisers eventhough there were three different events that was held on the same day. However, event organisers assured that Score Run runners would be given priority. KUDOS and WELL DONE! We ran and we truly had an amazing jouney/ route- I even had the chance to passed by my old office building, Wisma Genting- where Siew Kiem and I first met in Resorts World Berhad- marketing department ……20 years ago!! OMG!! We have been friends and sole sistas for that long!!  Well, here are some main differences between spending time with Siew Kiem and hanging out with other friends:-

1. Friends support you – Running buddies (Siew Kiem) run with you
2. Friends wonder why you are going to run 21KM Half Marathon- Running buddies (Siew Kiem) will high-five and revel in your accomplishment
3. Friends will follow your race destinations – Running buddies (Siew Kiem) will run a destination race with you!

Siew Kiem..her 1st 10KM run

This race, The Score Run- was truly amazing! It was a challenge for the 21 KM Half Marathon runners, it was an awesome experience for the 12 KM runners and a truly fun filled run for the 6 KM runners. There were people there of all levels, the elite runners, “The King of hills” runners, sole mates-sole sistas, fun runners with kids and strollers, it was in deed ” A happening” Score Run 2017!

There is a special bond that I have formed with my sole-sista, Siew Kiem, an unspoken connection between us that is seldom reproduced with others. Her presence adds a unique spark to any run and an extraordinary feeling of friendship and understanding. We know each other’s strenght and weaknesses and when to provide encouragement and constructive critism. I will miss her but I look forward to running with her once again.

So, call up some friends and start planning for the next Score Run 2018. I am sure you too will find a running buddy, sole-mate/sole sista- YOU WON’T REGRET IT!

I ran because I can…Why? I’ll rewind the clock abit, to those that don’t know my story…….hmmm…slightly overweight (chubby cheeks and a big butt) some friends woud call me a potato- I was once best friend’s with Mr Couch Potato,  you see….., mother of three children, probably going through a mid-life crisis, takes up running to escape from the stresses of life, but loving every minute of it!

What running has taught me:-

Patience-every runner wants to be a sprinter and on every run, there is the desire to burst away from the starting block. Running has taught me to be patient, to hold back and have a measured approach that will see me get to the finish line in all aspects of life!

Friendship- runners are universally friendly. Whether it is 4.00am  (doing hills) or 8.00pm (night runs), runners always say hello. It might only be a nod, a smile, but there is always recognition and respect for fellow runner that always lifts your spirits!

Teamwork- Although many of us run solo, whenever I join a new running group or turn up at a race, nobody ever feels isolated or abandoned. People/runners approach each other and make each one feels warm and welcome!

Support- whenever I struggle or waiver, there is always someone (most of the time- my better half, my hubby dearest) to inspire, motivate amd keep me going. It might be a cheer squad from the event organiser, a stranger calling my name or my “sole sisters”, telling me to run up that hill, to conquer the city, but I always know that I am not alone.

Hope- Not just the “I hope this is the last KM” type of hope but knowing that you are faster, stronger and better than the next great run (or hill) won’t be the end of you!

Happiness-maybe it is the endorphins but for me it’s the feeling of air in my lungs and the sweat on my brow.

Running isn’t just an activity I do to keep fit. It is a way to de-stress, escape my worries, to bond, to test my limits and to catch up with my friends.

Happy feet…..Happy me!

See you on Sunday at the The Score Run- Conquer the city at Berjaya Time Square.

There’s nothing like running somewhere peaceful, somewhere we can get lost in thought and find a little solace in our otherwise busy days.

Here’s 3 things that runners love doing:-
1. RUNNING
2. TALKING ABOUT RUNNING
3. TRICKING THEIR FRIENDS, FAMILY MEMBERS AND RANDOM STRANGERS INTO RUNNING

LOL….I see you laughing, you are laughing because you know that it is true! We have all done it!!

The kids aren’t around, your boss isn’t standing over you, it’s just you, your running shoes and the road!

I am proud to share with you that the IJM Land Half Marathon is back! It will be held on the 13 August 2017 and yes yes!!! And I am also proud to tell you that it’s my home town..woot woot! SEREMBAN! It will start from 6.00am to 11.00am and the event venue will be at Dataran Centrio, Seremban 2 (Opposite Mydin Mall). And the best part of this race…….21km half marathon finishers will receive their 21km half marathon finisher T-shirt! hooray…!Not only that, this race is more than just a race- why? Because part of the contribution goes to Pertubuhan Hospice Negeri Sembilan (HOSPICE) and Malaysia Lysosomal Diseases Association (MDLA).

To prepare, just lace up your running shoes and go…it doesn’t matter how fast you go, your pace, your race! So whether you are setting a goal for a new you or a goal to be part of something bigger than yourself, RUN! Sign up now for IJM Land Half Marathon 207-This race is a wonderful way to begin a fitness journey in a meaningful way. Not only will you achieve your fitness goals and earn a great sense of empowerment and accomplishment, but you will also be giving back and helping others in process.

RUN TOGETHER, BOND STRONGER!

Sign up now at http://www.ijmlandrun.com