Singapore Sundown 10k.

Well this years Sundown was going to be my second race of the year...I really like this race...not because last years I got stalked and fished...that was not at all fun...I mean who does that at a marathon?! Anyway, I decided that until Sydney in September I will be doing 10k only races...it was always my best distance and at this time 1/2 marathons, in the heat and humidity, only serve to frustrate.
I also love any time I get to stay in Singapore, its a great city to get some down time in. This race has always been held in the same general area, this year though it used an epic venue. The F1 track. Last year I did a 10k with the Tri-factor series at this same venue and actually ran a really good time...it has been a steep downhill since then. I have toned down the competitive-ness that is me, and have continued to accept high 8, low 9 min mile times. I was really hoping this would be better than my recent 10k showing...it was not, but based on my overall and age group placing...it does not look as though it was that great for anyone...the heat and humidity plays a part in that I am sure.
This is a nice course generally, it passes by the majority of the Singapore landmarks, which generally are lit up at night. It is a flat course and tends to be well managed...although this time i saw a few transition areas where there was a different route for the 1/2 marathon folks, where people got off track and had to backtrack...At a night race you really need experienced and attentive marshals at the transition areas, especially if you are running a dual distance race. I would never down volunteers though especially for a race that begins at 1:00am...they do the best they can and in their defense they did provide instruction...they just need to increase the volume, runners tend to tune out, and focus on breathing and pace, well this runner does anyway...I was not happy with my finish time, despite the face that my splits were closer to even (we all hope for negative but...).
The marathon folks also offered a really cool interactive page that made me feel a bit better.

So second race of the year in the books...now I look forward to Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur in June, and Sydney in September. Run Happy Loyal reader.

Great Wall 1/2 Marathon. April 2013, Huangyaguan Pass section of the Great Wall, Beijing China

This was an Epic experience. It is a race I have looked forward to for 2 years...I was prepared to sign up last year but then had the hip fracture/bike accident. This was the year for it, despite the fact that the last 6 months my training has been horrible and at this point I am far from prepared for a normal 1/2 marathon...much less for one that has 5,164 steps, and gains about 1,000 feet.

This was going to be difficult and a unforgettable experience. Taking place at the Huangyaguan Pass section of the Great Wall...a really picturesque section with a great big central courtyard. The weather was the first factor that was in question...How bad was the pollution going to be? As you know Beijing is know for its poor air quality, my hope was that this far (2 hours by bus) outside of the city, it would be better than a city proper race. As you can see from some of the photos...its not bad. Then it was if it was going to be Hot, although in China and in the higher elevation the humidity would be better. The race began in a light rain and the cloud cover and light rain really continued throughout the race, so that made for optimal weather conditions.
The second part...I was looking at the route and elevation maps before the race and I saw that gradual incline at the start, might be a good chance to get some pace going before the steps and incline really started...I was wrong.
The entire route was uphill for the first 4 miles...it was brutal.
I thought that the downhill steps would make up for whatever time I lost on the uphill steps, I again was wrong. The steps are all so uneven, that I often had to slow down to get down areas.

Eventually i just resigned myself to not being able to do very much running while on the wall, except for the flat spots between the steep steps. lucky for me that is where most of the cameramen were, so I always looked like I was running.

Truth be told, I was not, I walked most of that first 4 miles and prior to getting off the wall I had to stop in one of the towers as my legs actually felt like rubber. The next part of the journey was on the road for about 2 miles, and then we went off road to am un-even gravel roadway, then we were running in a small rural town.

It was such a great experience. there were a lot of local people on the street clapping and all the kids wanted a hi-five, some of the older ones would run with you for a while. Then we were back on the road for the last 3 miles. I found a group to pace with which kept me at an even pace. Crossing the finish line at under 3 hours was a great accomplishment for me, especially since I was under trained. I would post me Garmin data, but somehow i lost a mile and almost 20 min...My Garmin showed me at 2:35:21, 12.68 miles, a 12:15 pace...

Not a race I was going to PR, and turned out to be a great deal more technical than i thought...I had originally expected the wall to be the toughest part and then be able to make up time as the last bit would be on the road. The fact that it was gravel off road and uneven paved rural town streets, back ally ways and tough little uneven trail, made for a very tough but enjoyable race. I was glad that I chose to wear my Brooks, Pure Grit trail shoes...They really helped through the changing conditions. This is not a race I would do again unless I was in better shape, it is however in my top 5 for races I have done, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a very challenging but rewarding race experience.

Running among the Flags...

Today I am the non political Florida runner...as I have always been, I have offerd the pictures in Black/White, and sepia tones, not as an insult to the Malaysian people. I did not want to have this post be about politics. I am a political retard, i don't understand how most politicians sleep at night, and how some people can say and do the things they do and still look at themselves in the mirror. Anyway, this is a blog about running and that is something that I have finally put aside pride and worry and just gone back to doing. I am getting used to running 9+ min miles, and accepting the fact that for me long distances in heat like this is not going to be pleasant. So, now to explain the title of my post...It was election time here in Malaysia, I have waited till the dust has settled and all has been decided before writing this blog as I did not want it to seem political (besides no one cares about my opinion on politics anyway). The political machine here seems less driven by TV advertisements talking about how the opponent sucks and more about "direct marketing"...There are hundreds if not thousands of flags of all shapes sizes and colors, placed on every square inch of space that can be found, there are blue flags, there are white flags, some have "balanced scales", some have "rockets". There are banners, there are posters and they are EVERYWHERE! It is fascinating, astounding and at times downright annoying. Especially when running on the road in traffic is not something I do often, as i feel like i have a target on my back...i actually had some big fat guy in a tiny car try to hit me on the sidewalk...really...and the motorbikes drive on the sidewalk as well...as a matter of fact the side-WALK seems to be for every activity but walking, but that is another blog post. Anyway, my point about the sidewalks is that for the most part, that is where the flags are. I was thankful to have the botanical garden and the Straits Quay neighborhood as a welcome respite from the influence of the flapping flags. As always our experience here offers something new...being here for this election and political process has offered those experiences  As a political dullard though...i will always remember the flags and the feeling of them caressing my sweaty legs as i waited on the corner for the traffic to pass...it was like a polyester hug, and who cant appreciate a hug...Loyal reader, thanks for sticking with me, and as always, RUN HAPPY

A Floridian runner in New Zealand.

Roxanne and I sit next to each other in the office at home, this often leads to long debates that are often one sided (Roxanne did not grow up with 3/4 of the Long Island debate team). It also leads to discussions on "where are we going next?" The last discussion involved Brenna's 3 week term break, where to go, what to do...so we started looking at a few of the places we wanted to go to but have not been yet, Japan, Vietnam, New Zealand, The Australian Outback...Now as far as my running, it had not been going well...it was oppressively hot as of late and my training has gone down a great deal. Needless to say I was looking forward to a break (although I often leave room in any travel bag for running clothes and shoes).
We finalized our decision and the winner was New Zealand. Knowing it was fall there and the weather was gorgeous was a big help, for me anyway. So we spent many hours debating over what to do and how best to use the time we had. We decided to begin our journey in Chrirstchurch, Then onto Franz Joseph, Queenstown, Te Anau, Dunedin, and then back to Christchurch for the flight home. So as Roxanne planned hotels and our itinerary I was looking at running routes in each town...its what I do. Every place we stopped offered excellent opportunities to run, and some of the most picturesque running tracts I have ever run.

Christchurch:

 Christchurch was eerie, to be honest. We stayed in the center of the city in the only operating hotel, surrounded by buildings in different states of repair and empty lots. streets were still closed and you could really get a sense of just how widespread and overwhelming the destruction was from the 2011 earthquake. It is however a beautiful city and has some beautiful routes to run, walk and cycle on. Since I was so close and could run to it, I decided on the Botanical Garden route, which brought me past Hagley Park and Christ's College. The cool weather was a welcome change and the route was so nice for running, tree lined gravel paths, wide sidewalks, in good condition. There were always other people out running, biking, or otherwise, just outside. It was a nice easy 6+ miles, no stopping or slowing, and my legs felt great...can I just say, I LOVE the Brooks Green silence...so sorry to see it go. Christchurh was just a stopover we were off to Franz Joseph withing 24 hours or so.

Franz Joseph:

Franz Joseph was THE greatest place that I have ever run. The day we arrived it was raining so I could not get out...the next day it cleared up and I could finally get in 6 miles. We stayed just outside the national park, and the run through town opened up to these epic vies of the mountains and the glacier itself...Then the road gave way to a gravel walking path through the wooded area that emptied out to the parking lot. Our time here was limited and we had to get to Queenstown.

 Queenstown:

I had mapped a run in Queenstown, Once we got there I found a better one. This was again a combination of well maintained sidewalks, gravel and dirt pathways, and from time to time grassy trail. From our hotel, High up on a hill (which both sucked and was great) I could run down along the Esplanande, then through Queenstown Gardens. the trail through the gardens and subsequent neighborhood, offered some awesome views of the Queenstown scenery. This was the longest we would have in any one spot so i took full advantage and got in two good days of 6+ mile runs in beautiful weather...once you see the pics you will know why. Then it was on to Te Anau.

Te Anau:

This was another longer stay and I was happy because i was again treated to a really nice track. It was again a well maintained sidewalk esplanade, and then a basic grassy/gravel trail track along the water and through the outlying neighborhoods. These Neighborhoods were more like a few homes surrounded by lots and lots of land. the views did not disappoint and the weather was perfect. Allowing for more mileage  this time, it was another two runs, but at 7+ miles. Excellent! The greatest thing about this run as with  ALL of them here in New Zealand...Its sooooo quiet...no annoying traffic noise...NONE!

Christchurch:
So this was the last stop before we went back to Penang...I ran the same route and thought the whole time...How am I going to deal with that heat and humidity when we get back?? Its been so nice to train at 8 min miles (Penang is 9:34/mile) I loved New Zealand...I think overall the best run for scenery was Franz Joseph. the best overall run was Queenstown. I could live there easily! Queenstown had an active community, great restaurants, fantastic organic markets, and a mean temperature of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit for a high, and 40 for a low...this is a runners city! We had a fantastic time in New Zealand and this experience was fantastic. loyal reader I ran happy...I hope you do also. thanks for reading.

04/15/2013...A sad day for Boston, The United States, and the sport of running...Very sad indeed.

I woke up this morning, checked my phone as I always do...logged onto Facebook and checked the "Brooks Fanatics" page. There were multiple posts offering prayers to the people of Boston and the runners in the Boston Marathon...I though "what could have happened?" horribly so, my question would be answered. Two Incendiary devices were detonated at the races finish line and 50 meters or so to the south (I think) of the finish...At this time, people are dead, including children. Many more people are injured, some of those injured may not survive. Based on "talking head" reports, the explosive devices were "crude" in design, although built to achieve "maximum damage", ball bearings and shrapnel encased. The videos circulating are horrible, scary and also get my blood boiling. I will NOT be posting photos or videos of the carnage...I am overwhelmed by what the news is already showing, The first question I have is, Why?? Its the same question I asked after Columbine, and after Newton, after ever cowardly act of carnage. I still have no idea...this act, this is new ground and changes EVERYTHING.

All I can think is this is further evidence that we as a nation are STILL, despite those that would look to destroy what we stand for, UNITED...I again witnessed police, bystanders, runners and officials running towards danger, towards those in need. We are despite everything a community, who care for one another...To bad our governmental officials cannot act the same.
Our freedoms, have been changed though...have you tried to fly anywhere within the US?? Now ANY major sporting even that is this "open", )I don't mean that as an insult to the security provided by the City of Boston and the Boston Marathon officials, I know for a fact it was and is top notch) will have to change what it does and those changes may significantly impact the event itself. Personally I will think twice about having my wife and daughter at a "big" race to watch me finish....Who thinks their life is in danger at an event that in itself is about fun and accomplishment? This is an event that is unlike going to watch a football or hockey game. It is open to spectator participation and if some crazy or extremist wants to do something like this, despite the substantial security, they can, and obviously will. I can imagine that it is possible that finish lines at big US races will now be quiet places...that is sad indeed.
I am angry that somewhere in this world there may be...aw hell...there are, people who are laughing at and celebrating this tragedy. Worse than that if it is something more that a crazy... it will be in the name of their "God". I cannot comprehend that. I should forgive and try to understand... i cannot do that...i don't understand. I will hate you, and hate your version of God, i will hope for your demise. I will however pray that you will someday see the error in your portrayal of "God" and begin to value the gift of life, the life of others and the value of your own as well.
Today though, is a day, not of anger. Today is a day of sadness and prayer for those whose lives have been lost and forever changed. For we who run and run races the thrill of the accomplishment has been replaced by sadness and horror. At the same time, it has also been filled with devotion and compassion, Runners donating blood, Boston residents opening their homes for displaced runners who could not complete the course, and all those that gave more than what they had to.

cnn,com

Today, I will pray for Boston, shed more than a few tears for those that lost their lives. I will continue to run and attend races and god willing cross finish lines, I will not stop doing what I love. I will run tomorrow, in purple, for Boston, and for this planet...Loyal reader, Run Happy....

My thoughts...running in Beijing.

Ok, I know this is supposed to be a blog about running and for the most part it is..there are times however that while I run I think, it's dangerous I know, but it happens. I thought today about the Steubenville, Ohio rape case verdict. I think it's a horrible situation, but for me is a representation of what's wrong with our country, and just how broke we are. Beyond that there are now two females in custody for sending death threats to the young lady at the center if this case. I find myself asking if this small Ohio community is embarrassed and shocked at the behavior of its children, or angry that its football team may not be as good next season. I can not help but wonder if these two young men will be treated ad heroes a year from now when their sentences have ended. i can tell you this, fir the young woman, her life will be forever changed and difficult if she chooses to remain in Stubenville or is forced out. I viewed a video of a former vice presidential candidate who was standing before a group, holding a "big gulp" , talking about her "rack". I feel that  politicians if they are elected or otherwise should be representations of our country. Jimmy Carter comes to mind, the man is an example of what is good about our nation (like him or not), Sara Palin is nothing more than a clown, rise above your Saturday Night Live persona and make a contribution. I always thought she was certifiable...now I know it. Wayne LaPierre, can someone please tell this guy to stop...the NRA has a wonderful opportunity to engage in some really logical and cooperative dialogue, instead he is, in my opinion, a circus act, who is nothing more than a quote generator. I don't agree with the assault weapon ban, mostly because it did not work when president Clinton passed it in 1994. It did not decrease gun crime, background checks should be done nationwide. However it will still do nothing, as criminals and crazies will still find a way to gain access to a weapon. We have to have something better than " the only thing that can stop a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun" (unless that "good guy" with a gun happens to be a disgruntled police officer with military weapons training) . I know there has to be a member of the NRA that can offer something better than that, unless the NRA is really in the back pocket of the gun manufacturers. We have a new pope, yeah, I can only hope that he can fix the church...maybe he can borrow from LaPierre..." The only thing that can stop a bad priest with a bible is a good priest with a bible."

Ok, onto the running  Since March of 2010, when we arrived in Penang, I have run, either in races or training, in Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, and now China. We decided on our trip to Beijing, to see Brenna participate in a performing arts carnival at an international school in the city. The pollution was pretty bad and for most of the time Roxanne and I were on out own, we were up before 5am to get to some of the sites as early as possible. The last day we were there I was finally able to get out for a run. Although the haze was pretty bad, it was 40*F, and I could not pass up the chance to see if the cooler weather would help my speed and breathing. We were staying at The Peninsula Hotel, which was only a few blocks from The Forbidden City and Tienanmen Square, and there was a great 6 mile route around the City and in front of Tienanmen. So off I went first down Dong'anmen Street which ran in front of the hotel...

The Peninsula Hotel

Then my run took me down to Wangfujing Street which is closed to traffic in the area I was so only pedestrians and electric and push bikes. It was great in the morning as it was mostly empty, except for some walkers and some of the locals doing their morning dance exercise.Very few runners, actually none...

Wangfujing Street, Beijing

Next was a turn west towards the Forbidden City. 

Jingshan Qian Street Side of the Forbidden City

along the way there are at least 3 checkpoints where the local constabulary are checking papers and making sure that no one has anything the should not. Initially I would stop, eventually they would just wave me on. I was also hoping to run in front of the Forbidden City, no such luck with that though, way to crowded with tours, so i would turn when the wall of people got to be too much. I was also hoping to run in front of or within Tienanmen Square, however it was closed off during The People's Conference. So I just ran around the side of the City. On my way back on my route I decided to go back into one of the local streets, this one down Beichizi Street, right next to the Forbidden City. It was not that crowded in the morning and made a great addition to my route.

Aside form this street, my way back was the same. the cooler weather was so nice to run in and being able to maintain low 8's per mile and no stopping to catch my breath made for a really nice 6+ mile run. I did spend some time afterwards coughing, but it was great! Check another off the list, I have run in China, and I will be back in May to try and tackle the wall.

Until then Loyal reader, Run Happy!

Brooks 1/2 Marathon Kuala Lumpur

1st Race of 2013, and it was crap...The race itself was excellent, well run, a really tough challenging course that included some hilly sections. plenty of water stations on the course. The only problem, if i could say there was one is that at the end, getting water...bit of a "cluster foxtrot"...and the medal and t-shirt collection, also confusing...i ended up on the 1/2 marathon line and luckily heard the announcement for the 10k "trophy" collection. Allow me to explain for a moment the reason "trophy is in quotes. Instead of medals the organizers gave out a mini trophy to all the participants, Gold for the 1/2 marathon and silver for the 10k...nice change of pace. This is usually the time in the blog when i talk about my performance...I am choosing not to for this race...I ran a 10k in 54:09, which is a 9:00+ per mile race, I was 138th in the men's division and 158th overall out of almost 4000 runners...which is in a word, TERRIBLE!.

Admittedly I was hurting and under trained  but I have not run a 10k that slowly since i started running... I can use the heat as an excuse, it was 82*F at race time, it felt like 86 or 87 with the humidity. I wont though...I am just not running well right now. I need to get my motivation back and get a routine with my strength training...enough making excuses though...This was a race that was more about connecting with the base of friends i have here in Penang. It was great to see everyone, and as usual there were many of the I-run members that did very well. Now as I look ahead to the Great Wall marathon (1/2 marathon), I am really concerned...Anyway...good times and although I did not run well I did run happy. Loyal reader, There is cool stuff coming up, including the possibility of running the Hunter Valley NSW Australia 1/2 marathon again...Run Happy!