My BDM 102 story

I cried. First time I cried in front of many people. Out of the difficult route and the thought of how I was able to cross the finish line after running 102 kms. in one piece. This is how I ended the race. Let me tell you the whole story (why the hell should I be crying in the finish line!)

Before D-Day

Weeks before the race, I had trainings of some sort. Long runs, speed works, heat runs, you name it I did it. I even joined the test runs to familiarize myself with the route. I was guilty that I trimmed down my mileage towards D-day (which was one of my biggest mistakes...). Bought some new gears as well: Esmeralda, my green silence, camelback which I forgot on the raceday itself and new tights for recovery.

Last minute support plan was also pulled off when I decided to have my own set of support crew and vehicle. This was a very serious event that I want to finish within my plan. I learned from my previous ultras how difficult it is to have a shared support crew and I'm willing to fund my own to survive this race.

My support crew: Totoy (6th place from the previous BDM 160/driver), Ultramaan (ultimate support crew starting from the TPPB days) and Allan (Running Free Manila/blogger which wrote my story). We used my dad's car, the black vios as the support vehicle knowing that it will save me some money for the gas. I did my groceries and patterned my nutrition plan to Totoy's 160. Good thing I did support him on the previous week so I have an idea what to drink and eat during the race. :)

D-day: Prologue

We left Manila at around 11 am. Had a few stop over were we had lunch and bought some ice. We did a recon of the route and still I can't believe that a few hours from that point I will start the story of my journey. Sobrang layo niya!!!

We arrived at the same inn were we stayed for 160 the week before at around 3 pm. Beeps was already there, so as RD (running diva). The crew already put some ice in the ice box before getting some shuteye. I was anxious and probably had only 30 minutes of sleep before we woke up for dinner.

We had a chance to talk with Beeps, Nick and Millet during dinner. It feels like this is our "last supper" before we go on our little adventure later. We're all excited and nervous of this fun run (we were even blessed by a slight rain as we went back to get dressed).

To the Starting Line

For the first half, I decided to wear the orange technical shirt I got from the runfest and the short I got from ANR. I should have worn Esmeralda but Totoy advised me to wear something with more cushioning so I wore Milo (Adizero) instead. It was still raining and we all hoped that this will last till tomorrow when we reach the finish line. After some last minute check, we went to the starting line.

We were at the starting line at around 8:45 pm. I met a few familiar faces with their respective support groups eagerly awaiting for the run to start. I was still looking for Doc Art and DocT for my medical certificate, got them just in time before the program started. I asked my support crew to go ahead already and meet me at km 7 so they can get a good spot.

After a few snapshots and chat with fellow runners, we were summoned to gather at the starting line. A prayer, the national anthem of Japan, US and then the Philippines before some final reminders were given. At exactly 10:10 pm, the longest race in my life has started...

KM 00 - 32

We did this route last Feb and our strategy was to cover as much distance as we can before the sun rises. Beep beep was my pacemate for the entire race and this was our strategy during the test runs. We were doing quite ok from Km 00 until the start of the ascend route towards KM 7.

As soon as we hit the uphill part, we jogged. We want to save as much time as we can without burning out all our energy so we decided to jog the dreaded uphill. This part was dark but once you reach the upper area you will see the beautiful lights of Mariveles. Thanks to the slight rain and cold temperature we reached the end of the uphill still strong.

We bumped across a fairview running club member earlier during the race. He said that he has 6+ teammates and they only have 1 van to support them. We decided to have him stick with us as he will have problems with the support later on. So it will be a trio of us until we reached the finish line!

Same strategy, run the downhills and walk the uphills. I decided to have my support done every 3 km. There were parts of this route which have inaccurate distance such as the long run from km 16 to km 24. In my garmin, it was 1 km longer but that didn't matter. All I wanted was to finish the race based on the strategy we made.

I brought along a couple of gel already for emergency purposes. I planned to take them every 20 km (or in-case I'm drained and tired already).

As we paced thru the dark road, we remained alert with our environment. Raging trucks and buses were avoided (damn, they are fast!) while we move away from cracks along the road. I stepped on some but thankfully I didn't experience any problem. There were "landmines" as well (poopoo) but we're glad we didn't stepped on any of them.

Dogs, drunk, bargirls, etc. Not your typical run were even gays who pimp them are chasing after you. We refer them to KB (this man has ABUNDANT support; ewan ko na lang talaga kung di niya matapos pa yumg race). We lost him at km 24 when mother nature called him (he dumped in a gasoline station after km 24).

After 4 hours, we were able to reach the fork at km 32. At this point, we have to change our strategy...

KM 33-50

From this point on, the roads are practically flat. We are about to enter the town of Pilar and here we started our galloway method. I dictated the pace and timing; 5 minutes run - 2 minutes walk. This will help us conserve our energy until the later part of the race.

From km 32, we passed by Pilar. My support crew brought some pandesals already (I only ate one as I don't feel hungry yet). I asked them to prepare some coke already as I'm getting bored with the water and energy drink routine.

Farmlands, small buildings, trikes and jeepneys; those were abundant during this part of the race. But since it's night time, they were like ghost towns, it's like we own the road for ourselves. I was still strong at this point as we follow our galloway method.

When we reached Balanga, we crossed path again with a familiar soul. KB has reached us already from the time he answered mayor's call at the gasoline station. We made an agreement that all of us will cross the finish line together and stay loyal to the strategy that we set.

Finally, after 6:00 hours we reached km 50 (PR plus we reached the halfway mark on our target time!). Halfway to go!



KM 50 -68

The original plan was to reach km 70 before daybreak and had a change of outfit. Since we still have some time to spare, I change my wet shirt already with something comfortable. I decided to wear my TPPB shirt and dropped the headtorch already. I ate an egg and drank some soda before I joined the group again. Felt energized, we continued on with our journey.

We remain loyal to our strategy as we traverse the road from abucay to hermosa. Daybreak was near already and we estimated to reach the 70 km marker by around 8 am. My support crew are still strong and we continue to share the resources with my group. When we get bored, we try to entertain ourselves. I can feel fatigue already at km 55 but we need to move forward!

At km 62, we were given a surprise treat from KB's crew. His pom-pom girls had arrived! The UP ANR folks were in full-support of him even throwing this! We had some pictures taken before we ran again. At this point, a puppy was following us. I thought it would follow us until we reached San Fernando.

Km 67,  we're back at the main road. It was past 7 am already so we hurried along the busy road. At km. 68, we had our support crew wait for us as we will be resting for a while and have some breakfast. I'll have my foot massaged as well plus change into my Condura technical shirt + the "Japanese" cap to welcome the new day!



KM 68-80 

The long agonizing final 34 km has begun. I switched my gear to "Esmeralda" my green silence and started our run towards the town of Dinalupihan. This is freakin challenging as the roads here are not shoe friendly; they have a lot of gravels and sharp rocks which I felt as I inch my way to the next town.

Reaching the "Halo-halo" point, we met up with manager Jj and Joen which gave us a bunch of food and water. I'm actually feeling some soreness already (who wouldn't after running 70++ kms?) and tired but I know I still have a few more kms to conquer. We're stuck with the 4-2 run/walk strategy and it will stay until we reach the finish line.

Around km 75, I felt some pain on my left knee wall. Crap, I think I'm starting to have ITBS! I've had it massaged and gulped a painkiller to slow down the pain but I know it will never stop. So I have to slow down and increase the frequency of walking. KB already left us as I can't keep up with a faster pace. At this point, it was me, Beep-beep and the fairview running guy left in the small group

KM 80 - 90

As time passed by, the pain became more intense. The heat was already increasing and I can't run any faster. Darn it, why now?! But I swore to finish all my races regardless of what happen. So I continued the journey, frequently walking rather than running. Thank God for Beep-beep in accompanying me in this race!

We passed by the town of Gua-gua under the tense heat of the sun. There were slight jogs every once in a while but I really can't hold a decent pace. This will be a long walk towards the end.


Last 12 km

 After passing through the town of Guagua and towards km 90, I really want to end everything. I'm tired and in-pain. I'm psyching myself to never give up, I've already invested a lot of time and resources for this race.

I don't care if runners are passing by me as I'm not here to race. I'm here to finish the race! (Beep-beep even had a last second banyo break in km 92). Igol had reached me already and we paced for a km before he speed off. I guess it's really up to me and beep beep now to finish this.

The sun was already up and beating us up with the heat. Beep beep was encouraging me to run but I really can't do it anymore. It hurts like hell. I told him to go ahead but he never left me. We will finish this together and with style.

At last, the final km. Beep-beep told me that I should go ahead before them towards the finish line. I planned to sprint the last few meters to have a fantastic photofinish. But what if it alleviates the pain in my knees? What if I suddenly fell down before I reach the line. Amp, bawal ume-emo. Bahala na si batman...

With last ounce of strength, I poured water over my head and began to build up my pace. I don't care anymore. I wanted to finish the race. I feel a nth-wind passing thru me again and it was a sign. I felt my feet getting lighter as I ran the small road. People were already there, finishers cheered as I pass them by. One more step and finally, I accomplished finishing the longest race in my entire life...

Finish line Moment

Sir BR gave me his traditional hug. I can't help but cry and told him it was really difficult. I can't believe that I was crying! Syempre, nung may camera na I have to smile as if I didn't cry. Mahirap na masira ang image nyahahahaha!

Everyone was congratulating me but I cried again when Maan told me that I finally finished. It was very akward moment but a warrior can burst into tears as we are humans too. I was so tired and swore that I can eat whatever food was available. A few picture moment then I rested at the sidewalk waiting for the rest of the runners to cross the line.

This is my BDM 102 story. It might be late but I want to have it documented so I can share it with other people the crazy race I did in March 2011. Now, let me tell you my BDM 160 story...

BDM 102 Series: Prelude #1

Known as the most difficult road race in the country, the Bataan Death March 102 km was an annual event held to commemorate the long agonizing trip done by the brave heroes during WWII when Bataan fell in the hands of the Japanese. A trip made by several hundred prisoners of war (POW) from Bataan to Tarlac, they marched under the searing heat of the sun with the merciless Japanese soldiers provoking and killing all those who can't continue the journey. Truly, it's one of the most darkest events in the history of our country.

Last year, I think it was during the Rota-run when I approached my good friend and barkada, Ian Alacar about how he was able to finish the BDM 102. I was really fixated and I can't even imagine myself running the whole 102K with a 18 hours cut-off! It was crazy! He told me "Man, kayang-kaya mo yan. Kailangan mo lang ng training". Yeah, right, I'm a runner but not insane enough to do that.

Now, I ate my words when finally I made a decision to join the event. I already had the invite last October 2010. Why the hell did I change my mind?

- I consider it as the "peak" race of my running career. I want to test myself and push my body to the limit by doing this extreme road run
- I want to experience the thrill (actually boring) of running 102K
- This is one way of paying respect to our fallen heroes to whom we owe the freedom that we own today
- I want to celebrate with my running friends and comrades (I want that piece of experience)
- The finisher trophy is so huge that I will never have a place where I can put it. And lastly...
- I want to have a story which I can tell to my children and grandchildren someday. I want it to be a source of inspiration and perseverance to do their best on whatever things they love to do the most. :)

I will use this blog to record my experience for this race; from preparations till the post-race celebration. It's an epic story and hopefully to those who will read this will also feel the excitement that I'm experiencing.

Thanks to sir Jovie (Bald Runner) for the invite! :)

And now, my BDM 102 story will begin... :D

On a choice between PR's

Almost every Runner dreams of achieving a PR in each race that they join-in. It is the sense of fulfillment and gauge on how much they improved through their career. But what if you will be given a choice, you get to have a new PR but put your life into risk or do it on another day but you have to wait?

PR in every race: almost every runner's dream :D

I can't make a choice for all runners. But this thought echoed in my mind after I finished the Pinatubo trail run. To recap, I was really-really disappointed about being held-up in the 2nd to the last aid station. Waiting for almost 2 hours, my frustration really blew me off as I was already making harsh remarks about the decision. I was gunning for a good strong finish and my plan was ruined because of that circumstance. Indeed it was my fuel for my dash to the finish line.

Dash to the finish!!!

But when I heard about the experience of some runners who where released earlier on how they crossed the field while the chopper was firing live ammo's, it made me think again. Hearing how scared they were while they are running not only for the race but also for their safety. Imagine being in the field where a chopper was unloading its ammo on the ground and the possibility of getting caught in the cross-fire! What would happen if I chose to ignore the personnel and continue my mad dash to the finish line?

Lock and loaded! (live targets dead ahead!)

With that, I rest my case of not reaching my goal in this race. I'm satisfied that I finished the race even if I lost a lot of precious time. I wouldn't exchange my life with such a petty stuff, I can always do this again on another day. It is only a darn record; surviving the gruesome journey was already enough for me. Though it would have been better if I achieved my goal, I will just do the whole thing again minus the freaking chopper exercise.

I might be down right now but I'll be stronger the next time!

I'm glad that I'm safe, strong and alive to race another day. That PR can wait :D

* - photo credits to various sources in the Internet.

Habulan sa Bulkan: PAU 50K Mount Pinatubo Trail Run

"Grabe pare, alam ko may nagtrail-run dito sa Pinatubo mula sa Sta. Juliana hanggang sa crater tapos pabalik. Pag lumakas ako, gagawin ko din yun!"

Those were the words I told my friend while we were riding the 4x4 on the way to the crater during my first trip in Pinatubo last December. Never did I know that I will be doing it as soon as this year! It all started when I saw the pictures from the Pinatubo invitational run organized by sir Jonel last August. I was so envious with the experience and experience that I read about the run. I swore that the next Pinatubo run, I will be joining it.

I wasn't expecting to run all the way here from Sta. Juliana!

As if God was playing tricks with me, sir BR announced that he's going to organize a trail run this October to the majestic destination. Boy, I was so excited that the first day he opened up the reg (during the CLP for P2P), I signed-up already. Di pa nga tapos ang isang sakit ng katawan, may kasunod na agad!

So how did it go? Let me tell you my story about the "Habulan sa may Bulkan"

The Trip to the Starting Line

October 8, 2010 was a busy day for me. I attended a client presentation then had dinner with the consultants before I called it a day. My original plan was to finish everything up early then go home to catch some sleep. But I can't resist free food, especially when I didn't had any lunch! We finished at around 9:30 but I have to buy a few more stuff from the supermarket. I got home at around 1030 and still have to pack my stuff before I went to Mcdo Munoz, our meeting place.

I arrived at the meeting place by 12:15. Had some chit-chat with a few runners before I accidentally broke my bag's zipper! All the time of DocT's orientation I was so caught up with fixing my zipper but with no luck. Have to improvise and accepted the fact that I can no longer fix it :(. We all left at around 12:30.

I was so excited with the trip that I can't sleep in the van. It looked like I have to run again with insomnia! Darn anxiety, this will kill me soon! :( But enough with the bad vibes, I had a tough race ahead of me. We arrived at exactly 3:00 am in the morning.

With a few hours to spare I started preparing already. I checked-in to get my bib number (it's not 69 :( ) and got to take some of my pictures in the starting line. It was still dark and a lot of night creatures (bugs) were zooming around the lights. I was bit by some but my anxiety didn't let me down. I decided to bring along a bottle of gatorade as good luck charm (you'll know why it is a good luck charm in a while)

Starting Line!

The Ultra-legends! (mas mataas na nilalang sa ultraman)

Getting ready! (di naman kami excited)

The first 10 km: Darkness and Sand

At exactly 5:00 am, the gunstart popped and off we go. It was so dark, good thing that some of the fast runners ahead of us brought their headlamps. I decided to take the first kilometer at a comfortable pace but due to panic I forced myself to run faster to catch up with the guys using headlights. I swear that if you don't have any lights during that time, you will get lost!

Aside from the first river crossing (which made my feet felt heavier), this part of the course was dusty and flat with tall grasses. You might think that this was easy but NO this is not a road run. Though this part of the course was flat, we were running on sand. It's was really difficult as the sand sinks as you step on it. It required extra effort to run in the freaking sand but my strategy was to follow the 4x4 tracks along the way. My observation was those tracks were relatively easier to run as they were already flattened by the 4x4. But still we had to run thru majority of the soft sand track which zapped most of our strength. I had to endure this as I'm really chasing the guys with headlamps (I really don't want to get lost).

It was already sunrise when I reached the first aid station. I decided not to stop as I didn't feel hunger nor thirst yet and continued to run until the next aid station.

Imagine Running at this landscape with zero lighting!!!

Day break!!!

KM 11 - 20: Surprise at 16K!!! (traps of the trail)


I reached the 14K mark at around 1:55 in my watch. Took some time to gulp a hammer gel and refill my gatorade bottle. At this point, the course shifted from being dusty and sandy to very rocky and wet! Running thru the rocky course and several river crossings was definitely new challenge. First, the rocks were unpredictable, you might trip down or get sprained if you miss a step. Second, the river doesn't just make your feet wet but it also has rocks and sand which fills up your shoes. But this was still ok as the route was still relatively flat and compared to the sands, it was quite bearable. I felt like I was playing inside a maze where you need to find the best possible way out of it.

After a few minutes, I was literally surprised when I reached the next aid station. According to the race guidelines, aid stations were supposed to be located every 7K (7K, 14K, 21K, etc/), But this time, it was relatively short compared to the previous station. I was right, it was just only 16K. And guess what, walang support beyond 16k!!! Due to the condition of the course, the 4x4 trucks can't move any further. Well, I was worried at first but this little challenge will not discourage me to give up the race. I filled up all of my hydration units and thank God I brought along the Gatorade bottle! It became my hydration for the next 10K++ until I  reached the crater (hoping that at least there will be water/refreshment at the turn-around point).

Trail after the 14K mark!

The part after this was really challenging. You have to rely on instinct and follow the "Keep Left" rule to survive and find your way. Also, there were several "traps" along the way. The first trap was the coarse edges made up of sand which crumbles as you step on them. I became a victim as I made a wrong step; it crumbled and I fell down knee first! It was not that painful but I wounded my hand in the process. I checked if I had any other injuries before I washed up my wound in the river.

The second trap were the loose rocks along the river bed. It will can cause sprain if you accidentally stepped on them aside from being too slippery. Good thing my trail shoes have nice grips which helped me get traction against these rocks.

The third trap were the huge boulders. And when I say huge, they are HUGE! You have options on how to approach them, one you can literally climb them or go find another path. I always choose the latter as I don't want to risk any injury.

The fourth trap were quicksands! Yeah! Now I believe that quicksands were true and I fell into one! There was huge pile of sand at the side of the course which I thought was safe to pass through. My legs sank up to the knees! Sensing that I'm in deep trouble if I panicked, I chose to calmly lift my foot away from the scary sands. I was still lucky though as one of the runners also hit the quicksand and it took his shoes and one of his socks which made him run barefoot until the crater (he was asking for slippers or sandals that he can borrow just to finish the race, that's iron will!).

At this part of the course, I survived all the traps by being vigilant and careful on what I stepped on. I have to really slow down as I don't want to get injured as well. I'm talking to each runner that passes me by to keep my self sane as I really have no idea how far I'm from the turnaround point. Then I saw a familiar site...

Sample River that we tried to cross

KM 21 - 30: From the crater and back

I finally reached the "starting base camp" of the regular trekkers for Pinatubo. And time was running out, looking at my watch it was already 3:48 hours and I was really near the crater. The trek would take another 15 minutes and my hydration units were almost empty. I tried to do some short runs on the way to the top, climbed the awfully long stairs and briefly stopped to enjoy the view. I went down to the turn-around point and rested for a while by shores of the lake (my turn-around time was 4:06). Took some pictures, dipped my feet at the lake, cleaned my shoes and socks then decided to start our trip back to the starting line. I was planning to swim in the lake but due to a cut-off were trying to chase, I decided not to (which I regret afterwards).

Base Camp!

 
There was no aid station at the crater so I filled-up my trusty gatorade bottle, which saved me during the trip up to the crater, with water in a nearby faucet. I didn't thought if the water was sanitized or not as I'm thirsty when I chugged it down. I also dampened myself with water before the trip as the sun had already started beating us with its heat. Lastly, I took another energy gel to gain some momentum on the way back. We then began our descend back to the aid station (10K uli!!!)

Trail to the crater

Turn-around point

Frolicking at the lake!

Wasak na pero masaya pa din

During the descend we met a few more runners who were still on their way to the crater. I've also learned that some of the runners was lost along the trail by as much as 5K :(. I paced with Beeps and tried to do some short jog whenever there were flat routes along the trail. Here I got my second wound when I accidentally stepped on a very loose rock in the river which scratched my hand and made me do a split as landed on my butt first. I felt my left thigh cramped up after but I just shrugged it off as I want to really finish the race!


KM 31 - 40: Chop-chopped by a chopper

The heat of the sun is slowly taking its toll. I can feel dehydration building up and I'm almost out of hydration units as well. I also shared my water with Beeps to help him cross this safe and sound. Finally, we saw some brink of hope when the aid station (km 16 -> km 36) were already in our sight. Doing short jogs then brisk-walk, slowly but surely we were able to reach the aid station.

Cold RC cola and water... Nothing beats the cold beverage running down your throat after an almost 10K trip from the crater. I also stopped by the Takbo.ph support vehicle to get some fresh supply of cold gatorade and a splash of water to beat the heat. Off we go to the next aid station! By this time, the heat of the sun was already approaching it's full force which was amplified due to zero shading in this part of the trail. But we're already near the finish line so I decided to have a brisk walk - run strategy until I reach the km 14 aid station. Also by this time, the dried rivers were already filled-up again with water (bad news if the rain would come!).

As I reached the 2nd to the last aid station, we were held as there was a on-going Balikatan exercise in the field we had to cross. Jesus Christ, they were using live ammo for this exercise!!! We have no choice but to wait and hope that it will end soon as we were already cooling down and losing our momentum for the race. The marshal said it will only last at least 30 mins. but it turned to an hour then almost 2 hours.

Darn helicopter!!!

One by one, each of the runners were arriving at our aid station but we have no choice as we don't want to do any Lito Lapid stunts while crossing the desert. We were already hallucinating (man, those bad waters were fierce) on what can we do: a. Do a 12K fun run to the finish b. Do loops until we are done with 12K then ride our way back to the finish line.The effect of boredom and heat, very interesting...

Bangag na kami nito!

Finally, after the second round, they finally set us free! I decided not to carry my hydration belt already and brought a bottle of water and gatorade. I gulped down my last piece of energy gel, as this will be my dash to the finish... Epic Relay Style!!!

KM 41 - 50: Sprint to the finish line
Rested, cooler weather and built-up frustration; those were the factors I need to do my sprint to the finish. Holding a bottle of gatorade and cold water, I tried to speed up within the last few kms. I hit a 5:30 pace during the beginning of the dash, slowing down because of the sand and splashing some water in my back and head to cool-down. Support was present in every 3 km, so I was able refill my water bottle and drop my gatorade. I followed the 4x4 track to navigate thru the sand field and knowing that a rain is coming anytime soon, I continue to run the remaining course. There were brief walk-breaks to rest for a few meters and while crossing the gaping river (which has grew since we crossed it in the early morning). When I reached the guard post of the barangay, a secondwind began to blow behind me so I continued in increasing my pace until I saw the finish line. A mad-dash to the finish, I clocked in at 8:45 as my non-official time (I stopped my watch when they held us at the Aid station and re-started it when they released us). Finally, I'm done with my longest trail run in my career, 50 gruesome km with a lot of story to tell :D

Bangag at sabog!

Post-Race Thoughts

After the race, I had time to exchange stories with each of the finishers. We had lunch as I'm really-really hungry after the race (adobo, sisig c/o master jj, adobong sili c/o bong, fish crackers). After that, I hit the sack to get some well-deserved rest.

Here are a few things I had learned from this race:

- Trail Runs are really-really different from a Road Rage/Race! PR's in a road can't be applied in the trail :)
- Never run in an empty stomach or if you're lacking sleep!
- MT875 were the coolest trail shoes ever! Except for the part that water can easily pass thru it, cushioning and support was superb throughout the race. No problem whatsoever in the grip and sole after the race :D
- Expect the worst in a trail run and ensure that you are prepared whatever happens. Focus not only on yourself but your surroundings as well
- Beer Mug!!! Now I can enjoy my favourite "drink" and remind me of how much I worked hard just to get a piece of mug :))
- I adore people with Iron will! Ian who lost his shoes in the quicksand but chose to continue his journey and not to quit the race on barefoot and sandals is such a feat that he can brag to everyone else. I salute you bro for your fighting spirit and determination!

Ian finished this race using sandals from km 25 onwards

- Regardless of how many times an Ultraman tells you that it will be his last Ultra, he will never fulfill it as it is very difficult to get out of the addiction. Hahanap-hanapin nyan ang sakit ng katawan!!!

Kagat-trophy moment :D

Thank you Doc Topher for organizing the logistics of our trip and support. To the takbo.ph and team boring support crew, a big thanks and kudos to the job well done (laki ng utang na loob namin sa inyo). To boss JJ and her wife for the awesome lunch (sisig niyo the best). To the new friends and co-finisher of this race, congratulations and thank you for sharing this experience with me. To Sir Jovie, thank you for organizing a very tough and challenging run as always (you never fail to surprise us sir!). and to Dear God, for guiding us and ensuring that there will be no casualties in this race whatsoever.

As I said in one of my comments:
Yun na ata yung pinakamahirap na takbong nagawa ko kung saan nasugatan, natusta, natapilok, nadapa, lumubog sa kumunoy, nadulas at nag-split sa ilog! Bilib talaga ko sa mga nakatapos! :D

Congratulations to all the finishers! (gawin natin ito uli next time!)

Bonus: Ito pala yung pacer nina Doc T :D

* - Picture credits to Mccoy, Van and Jasmin! Thanks guys!

Prelude: Habulan Sa Bulkan

This Saturday will be my 3rd Ultramarathon and 3rd trail run in my so-called running career. I will be joining the PAU 50K Pinatubo Trail Run which was organized by Sir Jovie Narcise a.k.a. Baldrunner. I've only done trail run on a 10K - 15K basis but never on a 50K distance. I'm nervous at the same time excited because I don't know what to expect on Saturday. I even don't have a strategy yet on completing the race which I should do at least by tomorrow evening.

I never imagined that I will be returning here on foot!

Preparations

Prior to this race, my training plan was a mix of hill sprints, tempo and LSD. Hill Sprints for strengthening my legs and increasing my endurance, tempo for the speed and LSD for more endurance. I did a 42K marathon two weekends ago to test my strength but wasn't able to pile up mileage the week after (have to rest my sore foot). I also did break-in of my shoes in the Aninuan Trail, Puerto Galera (man, that was one-hell of an uphill sprint).

Hill Sprint Rules!!!

Nutrition-wise, no special diet. "See-food" diet lang as I'm planning to gain at least 5 lbs. before the race (fuel that I need to burn). No limits on what food I should eat :)

Seefood Diet!

Battlegear

For this race, i'm gonna pick the following battlegear:

NB singlet (I bought it using the GC's from boss Jinoe)
Transition tights (love those tights!)
3 sets of compression socks
NB MT875 trail shoes (my first trail shoes!)
Hydration belt
First Aid Kit <- ni-require ni boss BR
Visor + Shades

I can't run wearing these!

Support

Thank you takbo.ph folks for sharing your blessed heart with us this Saturday. God bless you! There will be 7 folks who will be support to the 16 runners. We will rent 2 4x4 vans to cover the support needed :).

I'm all geared up for this Saturday! Ready na ko sa Habulan sa may Bulkan! Good luck to all the Ultramarathoners who will be running this endeavour with us :D

1st PAU Mt Pinatubo Trail Challenge 50K
Capas, Tarlac
October 9, 2010


*- images came from various sources in the internet and owned by their respective authors

The Cost of Running

If you put in a nutshell, the basic costs you need to worry about running should be:

1. Shoes
2. Reg Fees

In the early 80's when the running boom was only starting, shoes cost only a fraction of the what they are now today. Minimal cushioning, hard-soles, no consideration if the feet are wide, etc. were popular. Minimal features = minimum cost. But today, due to results of scientific studies and feedback from the consumers, a lot has been added to the common running shoes. And this started the jump of cost to acquire one. The more the choices, the more expensive it gets.


aaahhh, the simple joy of running before...

For reg fee, I think there are various articles already about this topic (i had one a few months back). From P100 - P200 per race, now it has doubled its price for the same distance. My most expensive race to date is the corregidor international HM which has a whooping 2.5K for reg fee! (that's one shoe already!)

That was the basic expenses you need to worry. There are optional stuff such as training attire, running accessories, support cost, etc. This translates to additional cost which cost some pain in your wallet.

I'm not ranting about the cost of running nowadays but I want to give 5 tips in how to do some cost-savings in our favorite sport:

1. Choose your shoes wisely - Shoes can be expensive but again this depends on what are you buying. Read reviews before you do your purchase, list down the things you want to have in your shoe and do some shoe maintenance once-in-while. Reviews will give you info about the shoe based on consumer's feedback. It will give you an idea on how it performs and what are the pros and cons of the particular model. Emphasize also on the features that you need vs. the features you want because the more sophisticated the shoe, the more expensive it is.


too many choices = headache!

2. Plan your races - I used to race at least 3-4 times a month. When I computed the cost, I was able to generate enough money to buy a bike! With that, I began to choose my races each month. I choose them based on the distance, organizer, beneficiaries and cost. I posted these things in a previous entry but right now I'm planning to race only twice per month. The rest of the weekends I'll dedicate for my trainings. My mindset right now is the race is a testing ground on how well I did or progress in my trainings (I've got this from one of the blogs that I've read, I just forgot from whom... I'm sorry sir/mam but if this is from you please don't hesitate to give me a note so I can acknowledge you)


Even dogs are having headaches on increasing race fees!

3. Accessories are accessories - as defined in one of the online dictionaries "Something nonessential but desirable that contributes to an effect or result". Meaning you still can run without them but they can do value-add to your running experiences. Examples are GPS devices, exquisite shoes, MP3 players, etc. I'm not saying you should not be buying such items but always think twice if you are. Always ask yourself if you're going to buy them and maximize their use because you're paying your hard-earned cash for them (and they are quite heavy on the side as well)

I really want one :(! (but do I really need it?)


4. Group run/trainings are fun - well, having a personal trainer/professional coach is really very helpful but it will also cost you. Alternatively, you can join group runs. Some of these groups have experienced runners which will give you tips about running, exercise and racing. Besides this, you can also meet new friends and running buddies who shares the same passion and interest with running! (shameless plug for six:30 running group)


Group runs are fun! (Every Saturday, 6:30 am@UP Diliman)

5. Listen to your body - I reserved it as my last tip because some of the runners doesn't appreciate the limit of their bodies unless they feel something bad about it. Getting injured will not only cost you expenses but also your passion for the sport. Morale of the story: don't overdo it, when in pain, slow-down and check for any possible injuries. Stay injury-free!


You don't want to end up like this :(

I hope these tips can help you in planning your expenses for the hobby we all love. Running was supposed to be the cheapest form of sport as you only yourself, the road and a decent pair of shoes to enjoy it but it doesn't hurt to get a bit of things which can help you get better in this sport. Just plan it wisely :)

(still recovering from my running expenses in the previous months :))

*-all pictures were taken from the various sources in the internet and owned by their respective authors

CamTour International Marathon

This was my 3rd FM this year and it was done outside Manila. As I've said in my previous entry, I prefer running outside the known routes here in the city and mix it with my travel bug. I'm also excited because it is my first time to go to Bicol (where my lola's hailed from) and create a great story.

Day 1: The Mad Dash to Naga

On the first day, I was almost late at the bus station! I was almost screwed-up because of the KOTR registration "phenomenon" on which I finished at around 5:30 pm. This should have been acceptable if only I brought my things already and I didn't have a car BUT no! Traffic was really terrible during that day and I ended up reaching my house at exactly 7:30 pm. Stuffing things into my bag without even checking if I left anything, I rushed to the bus station. Thank God for the MRT as I was able to reach the station in the nick of time!

Still panting from the mad dash I did to the station, I met my roommates Prince, Kian and Brando inside the bus. We have to travel in the evening to avoid the traffic, the heat of the sun and get some sleep during the evening. I hardly got some sleep because of the anxiety and the chair I got in the bus (every time the bus hits on the brakes, I was slipping down the chair). So much for the action-packed first day.


I should not be left behind!

Day 2: Exploring CWC and Naga

We arrived in Naga at around 5:30 am. We went to the Mcdonald's branch in the plaza to get some breakfast and wait for some our friends. From there, we went to the Golden Leaf Hotel and tried to get an early check-in but our rooms were still not available. So we left our stuff in the Hotel and went back to the bus station to get some tickets for our trip back home.


Golden leaf hotel!

After Prince made his signature move to the lady in the ticket counter, we went to CWC to catch up with team CB. At CWC, we has some photo-ops and had an occular of the 42K route. Finished the occular just before lunch, I bought a SIM from SMART with a free cool Team Pilipinas Jacket! We went back to the hotel, strategized for a bit, had dinner, attended the church then went to sleep early for the race. *Whew* the summed-up my 2nd day in Naga. Next stop: Race Day!


something like this but it's not the design!


Day 3: Race Day

D-day! I wore the Team PPB singlet as I want to set a new PR here and I believe on the "sapi" factor whenever I race with it (it rocks!). We left the hotel at exactly 2:30 am with the tricycle driver who fetched us from the station. He remembered our deal! :) Arrived at the starting line at exactly 3 am with a bunch of runners already preparing for gunstart. Brando lent me his GF (Garmin, not his girlfriend) for the race before we started. It was my first time to use it and like a caveman, I was intrigued on how it can be helpful during the race. I didn't know that it will be a huge factor later on...

Km 0- 10

The gunstart happened at exactly 4 am! Off to a good start with me running at a 5:30 pace. Thanks to the GF, I was able to check my initial pace (I was only hoping for a 6:00 pace but I got comfortable at 5:30). Passing thru some of the runners, I paced with Ely (Kulotski) and Angelo from km. 4-5 before I sped thru the intersection. It was still dark but the race organizer put up some lights along the path (thanks!). The course was rolling uphill and downhill but most of it is relatively flat. Kian already passed thru me at km. 7 and looking at the bunch of lead runners, it was the United Colors of Benetton!

Km 11-20

The sun was already rising as we went back to the intersection. The 21K runners were already passing when I got back on the road. Still maintaining a 5:30 pace, I was bobbing along the sea of runners and greeted familiar runners on the road. I passed thru the first set of barangay with a cheerful set of locals and supporters who boosted our morale throughout the race. For some reason this resulted me to increase my pace to 5:00 but I decided to put it back to 5:30 as I don't want to be burned up.

On one of the stations, I gobbled up a powerbar. It got stuck on my throat!!! Damn, it was so uncomfortable that I was coughing during that leg. Drank some water to bring it down and off I go again with the race. The heat was already starting but I still feel good about it.

Km 21-30

At km 21, I already consumed my first energy gel. Felt the kick immediately, I continue to pound thru the course. Passed by a slippery bridge, went to the next town (which was the turn-around point), saw Beep-beep (fellow PPB member) saying he's feeling side stitches and leg issues already and paced with "lolo Gil" (I was initially annoyed actually because whenever he passes thru the crowd he asked them to shout "Lolo, lolo" but I respecthim as he was old but he was still strong to finish the race). Sun was already up when I passed by the water truck which sprayed water to all runners.

At km 28, I was already experiencing a bad feeling already. For some reason, I feel dehydrated and exhausted so I decided to take a short walk break. After I rested (around 500 meters), I was re-energized when a nice old lady gave me ice-cold water and ice to cool me down. Probably its because of the heat which started the fatigue but I already took an energy gel at km 21. This was so strange but I don't want anything bad to happen so I really took a while walking (chipping down my pace to 11:00 mpk). I was to experience the worst...

Km 31-40

It was the longest 10 km of this race. I was literally walking at the start of km 31 when I felt the cramps attacked. It was painful but I endured until I reach km. 33 (there were energy gels at that point) to gobble up my last energy gel. I felt a little refreshed so I tried to gain back my momentum (although I ended up with a 6:00-6:30 pace). The cramps were getting worst so I took some walk breaks every 500 meters to shake them off. What's worst is at km. 36-37, we have to passed thru a sharp uphill, just imagine the agony of running with cramps while doing uphills! (man, I love the hills but during that time, I swear I curse them!!!). The heat started to take its toll that I took a sponge splash on every water station. I'm conserving energy as well because I felt dizziness already. Shaken but not down, I pressed on to finish the race

Km 41-finish line

GF says I only have 1 km left to finish the race. I tried to speed-up and hit a 5 mpk pace but cramps were literally slowing me down. On the last 500 meters, I took the courage to sprint even with the cramps but alas, my photofinish didn't work (cramp really attacked me in the last 100 meters). Well, I did my best and ended up with a nice 4:17 finishing time :). I was feeling pain on my legs but that will be another story.


Shaken but not yet trembled!!!

Post-race Events

Had a few snapshots with my friends, witnessed a runner collapse (which was helped by sir Rene and Prince), had a short lunch which I didn't enjoy and short talk with some colleagues, we decided to hit back the hotel at around lunch time. We were so exhausted that after we took showers we were sleeping like logs!

Woke up at around 4 pm, we went to a local bar to have some post race chats and dinner. Finally, authentic bicol express at last! Beep-beep joined us and shared a few stories as well. We went back to the hotel to check-out and left for Manila at around 9:30.

Insights

- The race was handled properly with lots of hydrations, abundance of bananas, separation of routes for the different race categories and pre-race preparations.
- The route, though it was relatively flat, was still challenging due to the oustanding heat of the sun! (this should have been known as the "Race against the sun" FM). Thanks to the awesome help of the locals for giving us support along the way :D
- I didn't experience the activities in CWC (watersports) as we were all tired after the race. I did promise to try them the next time I went there.
- I also wasn't able to go around Naga as well because of the time constraint. Next time, I'll make sure I'll give an ample time to tour around the city.
- Will I join this race again next year? Definitely I will look forward for this event again next year!

Thanks to team CB, Prince, Kian, Brando, Eagle, Beep-beep and to all whom I shared this great weekend with. Looking forward for my next adventure race! (hint: it is a race against a volcano!)


My next adventure!

* photo credit to Brando and the various sources in the internet :)

The traveling runner

Running had become such a boom nowadays that almost every weekend, a running event is being scheduled. A lot of people has joined the bandwagon but I found another reason to run... become the traveling runner.

I was a fan of traveling before, exploring new destinations, taking snapshots with my camera and enjoying the scenery. Since I feel bored about the usual race course here in Manila (e.g. the Fort), I began searching for races outside Metro Manila. Voila! I found a new twist to my love of running, enjoying the travel while hitting the road for a run. I've done Ilocos, Corregidor and Nu Vali, now I'm gunning down the Visayas and Mindanao area.

I'm hoping to get more of these experiences in the future. My weekend schedule looks like hell right now but at least I'm enjoying what I'm doing.

What about you? Do you have any story about your run outside manila?

P2P prelude

After a long hiatus of not updating this blog, i finally made this new entry. I'm one day away from attempting to run the longest distance in my running career: a 65k ultramarathon from pasuquin to pagudpud.

I arrived here in laoag early last night together with a couple if takbo.ph friends. We're lucky to have a room at la ellana hotel even if i had a conflicy with my reservations. Grabbed dinner at the near resto then hogged the videoke to cap our first night.

Right now, i'm anxious about the race. Not because it is long but the experience that we will get. I want to enjoy every moment of it; thus, i will be doing an easy pace to appreciate the landmarks we will pass along the way.

I really hope that we will cross that finish line without any problems and in one piece. if only i know how to make it rain this sunday, i would do it to survive the heat.

Good luck to all runners in this long-awaited event. Please pray for our success and safety.

magpapaka-wasak na naman! :D