King of the Mountain Race and a little bit of Wowowee =)

A day before the King of the Mountain race, esposo and I went to Second Wind Running Store to register for the said race, and I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Neville Manaois of Pinoy Ultra Runners. We chatted for a while about the race course and some other stuffs about running. After that, off we went to Ultra for some run.

It was a break from the usual Sunday race, we joined the King of the Mountain which was held last Saturday. There were a lot of runners and bikers who joined, some familiar faces and some new.

A pose before the race start

The race consist of a 1.5K road which was all uphill leading to the 7K trail which was mostly uphill, muddy and wet. I was gasping for some air almost all the course, and stops once in a while when I see my heart rate elevating. I’m trying on a heart rate training (my hubby insisted on doing it so that I’ll be able to monitor if any palpitation occurs, thank you for the Polar RS200 again).

I met Sir Rene aka Jazzrunner, we ran together mostly in the trail course, I even got many pictures from him while running and walking. I was already running for 1hour and 20minutes while I past the 8K mark, since most of the remaining 2K is downhill, I decided to finish it in 10minutes. My kids and hubby where already waiting for me, good thing they were there, for both of my legs had cramps, instead of running downhill, I walked slowly. 500meters to go, I dashed to the finish line ignoring the pain in my legs, I crossed the finish line in 1hour ans 33minutes. Mikey gave a first aid on my cramps, thank you so much, you’re a life-saver.

Esposo, finished 54minutes (he’s becoming faster and faster). Free food were given after the race. Here are some pictures from the race day.

With Sir Rene

Erick and Sir Totoy (placed 6th overall and celebrated his birthday last Sunday)

Some new found running friends

With Elmer (he’s a Dragon Boat crew)

With the kids and Nanay

After the KOTM, off we went to Antipolo Church and some swimming at Amoranto. We were also scheduled to watch the Wowowee All Stars in Araneta, it was a request from my mother-in-law we couldn’t refuse. Here are some pictures I took on that event.

We had a blast that day, went straight to bed to have a good night sleep for another race on the following day.

A Biker’s wife

It’s been a while since my last post because I’ve been so busy lately. At the end of the day, I’m almost too tired to add entry to my blog. Here ‘s one entry that have been past due, almost two weeks ago, the 3rd Clark Off-road Duathlon was held and my esposo joined. This race was scheduled on the same day as the Mizuno (which BTW marks my first year running anniversary). Most of the runners in the running community here in Manila I know (and don’t know) is joining the Mizuno Race in The Fort, I would have been there if I had a choice but I have to be the “supportive” wife for at least a day or two. I would just be posting picture from the event (the recap would come from my husband, if he’ll do it).

With Elmer, Ian aka Seabiskwit and Erick

Bikers prepare for the event

With PMTB buddy Adrian

It was good day to race, after several days of rains the weather was cooperating on the race day. Esposo said, there were a lot of strong athletes who joined including those who are member of the Philippine Team, Mr. Leo Oracion and many more, he assessed it would be hard to win in a race where strong competitors are so many. The race started with a briefing from the organizer

Race Starts:

Notice how strong the runners look

Two running buddies who are leading the pack

That’s my esposo (in blue)

Nearing the transition area

Transition:

All smile for the camera

Start of the river trail (Sacobia)

After four bike loop, participants have to run another 5K of trail. It looks like a grueling race, biking and running under the scorching heat of sun, river crossing, and wet shoes.

Off to another 5K trail run

Almost there

Esposo’s time (according to me):

First 5K Run Loop – 29 minutes

First 7.5K Bike Loop – 30 minutes

Second 7.5K Bike Loop – 29 minutes

Third 7.5K Bike Loop – 32 minutes

Fourth 7.5K Bike Loop – 30 minutes

Second 5K Run – 35 minutes

He ranked 23rd overall but was supposed to be 19th because the person in charge of recording the time did not get his number and name correctly. Sayang!

To all those who joined, congratulations whether you finish or not it’s one tough race. See you all again next year and hopefully I won’t just be the photographer but a participant too.  Other photos are posted in my Facebook account. Please grab it there. (Search nyo po Let Guieb). Thanks.

Are you ready for another trail?

Got this from Takbo.ph, so if you are thirsting for another trail run, here it is:

WHERE: Sta. Elena, Sta. Rosa City

WHEN: June 21, 2009 (Sunday)

For more information, visit www.menshealth.com.ph, www.finishline.ph

See you there.

The TNF100 Challenge – Part 1

The long wait is over, TNF100 has arrived…

‘Twas the day before….

The wheels on our car go round and round on that Saturday afternoon as we drive to Clark, Pampanga. Everything has been well planned, our running gears ready; our cooler if fully-packed of hydration drinks, power gels and lots of water; and the bananas already ripe. Our racing spirits in-tuned with the anticipated event.

We arrived at the hotel at 3PM, rested for a while and decided to go to the race area so we could survey the trail. But as soon as we arrive in front of Expo Filipino and parked our car, huge drop of rain started pouring and winds were almost tearing the race area, it was like being in the middle of a storm. We opted to stay inside the car and waited for the rain to be over. And as soon as it was, this is how the race area looked like:

It looks like a storm hit this place

Hubby and I were concerned with the runners in the 100K category. We thought that with a wind that strong and that heavy downpour they would be worried of a very muddy and slippery terrain, add to the rising water level on the river rising.

After that rain, we still went to the trail area and walk/run (lakbo) some kilometers, we didn’t get to see the way leading to trail so we just run on the river. We were on our way back to the area that night when we saw Glenn Mundo running for the finish line, we stop for a while so that we could cheer for him and chat for a while. He was the one who told us that Coach Rio is thinking of postponing the race due to what happened earlier. Coach Rio did what any responsible organizer would do, analyze the situation and act and I admire him for that. We stayed for a while in the race area and talked to runners who finished their first loop in the 100K. We saw Mikey, Glenn, and Bro. Ronnie (RunnerforChrist), finally I get to meet him. We left the area after a couple of minutes for we have to sleep early for the big event.

‘Twas a very special day….

I ‘am used to preparing everything needed during the night before a run, I don’t want to miss and forget anything that is needed. Woke up around 3:10AM, drank some coffee, eat instant noodles, change from pajama to running attire and off we go to the area. There were lots of runner attendees who also stayed at Holiday Inn since they were giving discounts for the accommodation in collaboration with the TNF100. The shuttle bus going to the site was already in front of the hotel lobby and lots of runners were already on board.

It was obvious that we were super-dooper excited for the race (along with many runners), we arrived at the area early, something that we don’t usually do. Some runners were warming up, chatting with friends, the racing atmosphere is so high that you are immediately drawn to it. Gigi the FitMommy was also there, who was doing her 20K trail run and said that she was nervous but knowing her the run was nothing to her.

The 20K runners went first and after 10minutes the 10K were off. It was around 1.5K of road before heading to the downhill portion of the Sacobia bridge leading to river. There was a slight traffic at this portion because it was muddy and some runners prefer to go down safely rather than go down fast risking injury. The run was fun, we were made to cross river and run on water, I was running with wet, dirty and muddy shoes. It was a bit irritating running like this for almost 75% of the race, but it was really fun. You can tell that almost all the runners were having a good time and was really happy of joining this race that day. Sure it was a hard course but I’m happy to have done it and will join again next year. Check some pictures I took while I was on the trail.

I finished the race with an official time of 1:30:58. It was slower than my last TNF but this course is way too hard than that.  My esposo placed 7th overall in the 20K with official time of 1:55:12. I was just wondering why he didn’t won in his age category “A” (18-30 y.o.), instead the runner with Bib#7074 won (age 21) with a time of 2:03:03, is the AGE the first basis when choosing the winner for the age category or the finish time? I think it’s the finish time so why did #7074 won instead of my hubby. I already sent inquiry to runrion.com but haven’t receive any reply yet.

But still overall the race was well organized, Coach Rio and Vince did a very good job. They are really good with their job, they deserve an applaud. Congratulations to you and your team!

Next post will be photos from the TNF100 race. Keep running everyone and congratulations to all the participants and finishers especially to those who joined the 100K solo/relay race. Finish or DNF, still I salute you.

TNF100

To those who are taking the TNF100 challenge this week, here’s an update from Pinoy Ultra Runners site which I think would be very helpful to us in preparation for our trail run this coming Sunday:

10KM

Based on the map the 10km runners would be running roughly 30-40% of the course on the Sacobia River.  After which runners would climb a steep hill leading to a flat trail.  Most likely the dirt trail would be established since there are several communities nearby.  It might be very muddy or dusty depending on the rain fall.  After this road a gentle downhill will lead runners to a concrete roads going back to the finish line.  Try to sprint here so you can overtake and get the best possible time.  You will have five water stations, based on my estimates it would be spaced from 2km to 3km apart.  You can bring a hydration pack so you can skip the water stations and finish the course at slightly faster time.  If you’re not a fuel guzzler, a hydration belt with water bottle would also suffice.     Elite runners won’t bring anything, since they want to be as light and nimble as possible.   It may be a 10km distance but since it’s a trail it would feel a bit like 15km or even more.

20KM

Will follow the same route as the 10km but it will extend past the Haduan area where an old bridge is located.  Runners would then climb a dirt road and follow a narrow trail used by the local communities.   Based on the map this trail will be flat but very challenging surrounded by tall cogon grass.  Runners then will reach Gate 4 and exit back to Sacobia river, try to hydrate as much as you can the terrain can sap a lot of fluids and energy.Remember you still have a long way back,  try to stay positive and kick in that second wind.

Bring any type of hydration system (pack, waist, and hand) it may slow you down but at least you wont run out of fuel.  You might also want to bring energy bars or gels giving you that extra energy to overtake the runner in front of you.  For those who are new to trail running the surroundings will really drain your reserves.  The Sacobia river will sap your energy and the cogon surroundings and blazing sun will definitely sap all of your fluids.  The sand will create lots of glare so you might want to bring a pair of sunglasses.  Remember to pace yourself, let lead runners guide your way.  Try to overtake runners before entering a narrow trail and don’t stop during hill climbs.  My estimate is,  20km trail will be like a 25-30km road.

Nice!

Visit the Pinoy Ultra Runner site to read more about this. See you all this Sunday.

Preparation for Trail Run

Here are some tips in preparation for  a trail run.

1) Anyone can participate in trail running. Trails are actually more forgiving on the body as opposed to road running and pounding the pavement. Trail running can help “cushion the joints.

2) Gear. Try a hand-held water bottle, a torso pack, fanny pack or Camelbaks. Bring an energy gel or energy bar for nourishment. Trail shoes, Dri-Fit or wicking shirt, shorts and a great pair of socks are a must! If your feet feel good, you feel good.

3) Blisters are common when starting out. Sprinkle some baby powder in your socks or use petroleum jelly on your feet. It helps reduce the friction and provides a lubricant to keep them from chafing.

4) Map your route. Research your trail run. Before going out, make sure you tell someone where you are going and about how long you expect to be gone.

5) Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or help from experienced trail runners. Most veterans are more than happy to run with beginners.

6) Trail running is a total body workout. Your core, upper body, and lower body all get a rigorous workout as trails require balance, agility and stability.

7) Be patient. Trail running, unlike road running, is not about personal records. Run for time, rather than mileage and be sure to enjoy the views!

The North Face 100

“With the success of the inaugural TNF100 last year and pump-primed by the maiden leg of the TNF Thrill of the Trail, this year’s TNF100 Philippines will bring greater challenges to those who will dare to discover the extent of human endurance.

Set in the great plains of Luzon, trail runners will discover that varied terrain and unexpected descents and climbs still await them in Sacobia, now termed as “The Next Frontier”.

Multiple river crossings, running in Lahar, canopied trails and more await those who will go the distance, endure the trail and test their limits!”

Another race from The North Face, and me and my esposo are already registered. Another 10K trail run for me, wooohooo!!! For more info visit http://www.thenorthface100.ph or you can email them at inquiry@thenorthface100.ph. See you all there.

Thrill of the Trail Recap

We left home around 3AM to travel to Nasugbu, Batangas. My esposo and I opted not to check-in in a hotel in Tagaytay because of money. The past few months have been full of expenditures, so we decided to be stingy for this event. I managed to get some sleep while my esposo is driving, I have to conserve whatever energy is left of me. I woke up when my esposo asked me if I wanted something to eat, we were entering the Drive Thru of Mcdo in Sta. Rosa, I guess french fries would do. I stay awake until we arrive Nasugbu. There were staff of the TNF preparing for the event, some were hanging the streamers, fixing the light and playing some music.

TNF Thrill of the Trail

Getting ready for the run

With Glenn Mundo

With my esposo (naputol si Glenn sorry)

Suddenly I felt that I had to go, my stomach is not cooperating with me! Argh!  So I had to go to comfort room to have a little private time and yes it was a success. It had been a relief for me thinking that it might make my performance bad.

The announcer said that the 10K runners would be the first to go and 10minutes after would be the 20K runners turn. At exactly 6AM, we the 10K runners were given the BANG! All set, it was still dark when we left off, there were a lot of things going through my mind. I was really anxious of this run, I was praying that God would keep me safe, and that I finish this race safely. SAFETY was the one thing on my mind that kept me compose. Sure I want to finish with a good time, but HEY! if I had to walk, I will walk. No one is stopping me. I’ve given myself this goal of 1hour 30minutes for me to finish this trail race, my own PR for a 10K run is 1hour 13minutes which was when I ran in the KOTR. If this is a trail my personal goal would be decent enough, I guess.

Sa sobrang bilis ko tumakbo, blurred ang kuha ko x)

Model ng power gel, hehehe

My esposo who finished in 1hour 54minutes for his 20K

My esposo, one of the 20K runners was able to catch up with me in the 3K+ mark, he sure is fast. Our training at the Mt. Sto. Tomas and at the Shotgun Trail really paid off. I didn’t had a hard time during the course, but of course there where time that I was about to trip but got back on my feet again and some grass twisted on my shoes and wind up pulling my foot.

The hardest part of the route…..

When we reach the RAVINE, all I can say to myself was OMG! It was a good thing that it was not muddy, but it was still slippery due to soil, the rope that the organizers put was a good help. But I was blessed by this guy ( he was wearing a black shorts and the TNF singlet, he has a curly hair) who helped me while going down the ravine, I didn’t got his name but he was a tremendous help. God bless him indeed. Then came the bridge… (wala lang, hehehe).

After the ravine was the uphill run, I was mostly walking during this course of run. I was enjoying the view of the place. When we got to the road, I was relieved, thinking that the it was almost over. I really pushed myself during this time, and when I looked at my stopwatch it was 1hour 19minutes past the starting time, I can still finish earlier than my goal time. When I saw the intersection on KM9+, I dashed to the finish line. The organizers where before the finish line to give us a high five, I can hear the crowd who finished earlier clapping at me . It was a nice feeling and after thaat all I can say was PRAISE GOD! Praise God that it was over, Praise God that I’m safe, Praise God for my good finish time of 1hour 26minutes. Woohoo! I’m really so glad.

My esposo finished his 20K with a very decent time of 1hour 54minutes, he was 15 overall the 20K runners. We didn’t finish the program for we had to go home early. So we really don’t know it my esposo had a prize or what. Well, we have to wait on that for now.

Mikey entering the finish line

After the race, medyo hilo ako dyan gawa ng yoghurt na kinain ko

After the race, goofing around

Next Stop – Mt. Balungao

“Mount Balungao Mount Balungao stands at 383 meters high and is situated about 5 kilometers southeast of the Balungao town proper. Hot and cold springs are found here and many visit the place during the summer because it is said that the hotspring can be use mainly for medicinal purposes. Balungao is 188.55 kilometers from Manila thru Carmen, Rosales”

Trail Run on Mt. Sto. Tomas (Benguet)

Off to my trail!

Woke up early this morning to climb up Mt. Sto. Tomas in Tuba, Benguet which wikipedia describes it’s topography is “generally characterized by irregular rugged terrain and steep slopes. It is a plateau with several mountain peaks rising from the table land itself. Mount Santo Tomas, the highest peak in the area soars to 2,252 meters above sea level.” It was a gruesome ordeal for me for the temperature was so cold and the air is so crisp that it was so hard to breath.

Overlooking Baguio City

God is awesome!

Pat and RG on the go

It was a run/walk trail for me, the road was rugged and steep. Considering that this is my first trail run it was so hard for me. I did this as a part of my training for the upcoming event this January 18 on Nasugbu, Batangas. I’m having jitters eversince my esposo registered me for the 10K event in The North Face “Thrill of the Trail”. I’m not quite sure if I’m ready for that event that’s why I’m doing everything I can in my power to ready myself. I’m setting my goal of less than 1hour 30minutes for me to finish the race.

My energetic esposo (he was able to climb the 4K rugged and steep slope in 34mins.)

just in front of the radar

My esposo, being a native from Baguio City educated me that the road we travelled earlier was called “fire road” which means “a gap in vegetation or other combustible material that acts as a barrier to slow or stop the progress of a wildfire. I was careful enough while running because you’ll never know when you’ll trip on a rock and stumble. I have to stay injury-free for my future runs. During the course of the run, my face and my hands felt numb because of the chilling wind. I have to stop once in a while to gasp for some air. My head even hurt because of the cold temperature.

Downhill

Sarap pag downhill na hehehe

Overall the run was priceless for me, it’s my first trail run in Baguio City. I was with my esposo, sister and brother in law. And it is rewarding for me to know that I have accomplished this, being able to run/walk to the highest peak in Benguet. I’ve given myself a pat in the back and it certainly boost my running attitude.

Top rock

Yehey!