Blog, as you know, I have been racking up major mileage on my Road Bike. Riding at least 50k every weekend. Quite frankly it is quite addicting. I look forward to waking up early Saturday mornings to ride with the team or just with the hubs.
But where do you go to do your long bike workouts?
1. Nuvali (44kms from Mandaluyong)
Nuvali has always been special to me. I did my first 50k ride there with the help of my Greenhills Tri teammates. My first 80k ride with Lianne, a GHTT Lady. I just loved the fresh air, wide roads and sure, even the long hill climbs (NOT!). Leaving Mandaluyong at 530am, it takes us roughly 30 mins to get there via SLEX, taking the Sta Rosa exit. Going back home is a different story. Due to traffic, it can take us anywhere between 1 hour to 1.5 hours.
Our route entails us to go from Nuvali Ecozone (left side as you enter Nuvali) to the Carmel Ray Industrial Park via Nuvali Main Road and back. One round is approximately 30k. There are a number of climbs one will encounter. The first would be a short steep climb up to the rotunda. I fell there once because I failed to shift my gear and lost power. Bike was ok. Ego was not. Haha!
Second climb is along the end of Nuvali Main Road before turning right towards Miriam College. I hate this part. Dread it in fact.
Next is the gradual but slow climb along that road in which you turned right to. Not so bad. But you should pace yourself during the previous climb so as not to feel the burden of this one.
Fourth is the long climb towards the wake park. I actually don’t mind this climb. Sure it’s challenging but with the proper gear and mindset, it shouldn’t be so hard. There are several small easy uphills within CarmelRay (Indistria), before the wake park hill, but I didn’t bother counting it anymore.
Last would be the one by the gatehouse from Nuvali Main Road before the rotunda. With the right momentum, this shouldn’t be hard.
Upsides
-Clean air
-Nature, nature
-Great for group rides
Downsides
-Far from Manila
-It can get quite hot as majority of the road you will pass are not shaded
2. Mall of Asia grounds (Within Metro Manila in Pasay City)
If you want to do your speedwork and intervals, this is the place for you.
Most of the rides happen behind the mall along the stretch of Seaside Blvd. It’s a 2.5-3k stretch to and fro. You might be thinking, how in the world can you complete a 50k bike ride in just that stretch? How boring! Believe me. I did a 53k ride here. I could’ve gone farther but had to run after my ride so I decided to cut it short.
However, you have to be very careful when attempting to ride here. I have seen pelotons (the main group of riders in a bicycle race) here and I have heard of accidents caused by riders slow down to a sudden stop or make sudden turns. Add the number of pedestrians crossing and parked cars suddenly opening their car doors without looking at incoming traffic.
Some of the things that I did to survive a fast, long distance bike ride in MOA
-Slow down, Look and Listen
-Predict the movement of people/vehicles around you
-Do not join group rides unless you are really a seasoned biker
Upsides
-Very near the city
-You can practice your spinning
-Great for speedwork and intervals
Downsides
-Alot of fast bikers
-Populated
-Accident prone area
-Around and around in circles
3. Jala-Jala, Rizal (About 1 to 1.5 hours away from Mandaluyong)
For me the perfect venue for my future century ride. Read my post why.
My only issues here are passing through populated towns which means having to deal with jeepneys and tricycles. I was almost side swept by a tricycle during my last ride there. Oh and also crossing the main highway going back to Manila East Road. Got too scared to cross that I went down from my bike and walked towards the place where we parked. Haha! Then again, coming from a person who is not an expert in crossing streets… 😀
Upsides
-Clean air
-You will enjoy the view of rural life
-Relatively flat with a few turning uphills every now and then
-Paved roads
-No going around in circles to complete a long bike ride
-Empty (but narrow) roads
Downsides
-Sometimes you need to pass through town so you will have to deal with jeepneys, tricycles and pedestrians
-Narrow (but empty) roads
-Accident prone area
-Faaaar
4. Camp Aguinaldo (10-15 mins from Mandaluyong)
I know what you are thinking. A long ride inside an Army camp? Yep! I’m telling you, it can be done. Thanks to my teammate Josette, I was able to discover a 10k route inside the camp. It has quite a number of turns which can test and hone your bike handling skills. It also has a number of short but steep hills and a long but gradual climb. And has a number of flats where you can do your speed work. Hey if I can do 53k in MOA, I can certainly do a 60k in Aguinaldo. I even pushed it a bit and did 80k. My maximum speed was 42kph. Not bad huh?
Upsides
-Inside the city
-Hills, flats and narrow turns. Why is this an upside – you can actually hone most of the required bike skills here.
-Most of the roads are shaded
Downsides
-Have to deal with vehicles and pedestrians
-A lot of narrow turns (can be good though)
-Presence of potholes in some areas
-Humps!
-Around and around in circles
Since we are in the topic of bike rides in Aguinaldo. I just finished an 80k ride in this camp last Saturday. I am mighty proud of this for the following reasons:
1. I was able to reach down for my bike bottle and drink from it THRICE without fumbling, losing my balance or falling.
2. I was able to do my hand signals. Turning left, stop, alternate left. Oh yeah!
3. I was able to use my drop bars and push until I hit 40kph.
4. I did not fall. Not even once. EVEN IF I couldn’t unclip my cleats from the pedals. And EVEN IF there was this vehicle who made a full stopped on the street and a sudden right without checking. Thank you LORD!
80k baby!!!
So far, this is what I can share with you. I hope you can try all my playgrounds. Share where you bike too!
See you on the road!
Surviving The Storm
Dear blog, I had a dream. I dreamt that I woke up early to prepare to leave at 415am to check in our bikes. But Noy was too slow and the sun was already up when he was ready. I was furious as I knew that we didn’t have time to check our bikes in and my wave probably started. Then the alarm rang. Oh it was just a dream…
I hurriedly woke Noy up to start preparing to leave. Surprisingly, we both had a good night’s rest. The bed was very comfortable. Two thumbs up to Subic International Hotel Delta.
After a quick shower, we donned our trisuits, applied Safe Sea sunblock, trislide, body glide and headed to Dungaree beach. We have our own transition boxes in case none was available at the transition area. I know, I know, Bike King organized this race so it’s pretty standard that they would provide these but hey it’s my first time to join an event organized by Bike King.
Thanks to Waze, yes we are so dependent on this app, we got close enough to Dungaree beach to park. I realized that we would need to ride our bikes to the transition area as it’s quite far from where we parked. Oh…no wonder they gave away those transition bags. Hey, it’s my first time remember? So we quickly transferred our stuff to the bag and rode our bikes to the transition area. I wanted to try wearing my tri shoes going to transition so I wouldn’t have to carry it but didn’t bother clipping my right foot so I can easily drop my right foot during dismount. During the course of the short ride, it somehow clipped itself to the pedal without that audible “click” so when I was about to get down, I lost my balance and almost fell. Oh no…Is this a bad omen?
I saw Tri couple Glenda and Timmy excited to start. How I wish I shared their enthusiasm. We deposited our bikes at the transition area, fixed our stuff, visited the potty then waited for the sun to rise before hitting the beach to warm up.
With Timmy
Think positive, relax, pray, let go of your anxieties, trust your training, this is for Ben (my son who turned 17 that day). Self-talk: You know how to swim. You can do it. You are awesome. (Nah…I just made this up)
Swim
A few minutes before 6am, they let Wave 1 enter the beach to warm up. I was nervous, worried that the water might be too cold that I will lose my wits. I was frantic, seeing the route. It looked like a daunting task. It looked really faaar.
This is how half of the route looks like from afar. Grabbed from Running Photographers FB wall.
I saw my teammates Candy and Majul and they told me to just relax and be calm.Majul made me smile as she told me that this was her first everything. Oh…someone’s more brazen than me. I felt a bit better. I was chatting with Lynette Ermac (wife of idol teammate – Bryan) and Joy Vargas of Team Endure, when they announced that we can now start warming up. Ohhhh surprisingly, the water wasn’t too cold. Then I remember that I am quite used to cold water. Swimming in Chateau Verde’s freezing pool has its perks. Ohhh…the water’s nice. Ohhh…look I’m swimming. Ohhh…ahhh. Hey, it’s not so bad. After two minutes, we were asked to get out of the water as we were about to start. Barely out of the water and still chatting with Majul, they announced that we can begin. Huh? No countdown?
I let majority of the triathletes swim right ahead. Coach Nonoy was in my head. Swim far from the buoy and make your way in. I was actually doing it. Relaxed and happy. That’s how I remember my state of mind during the first part of the swim. I tried to sight as often as I can. Lalala, I was actually doing it. And there it was. My dreaded abyss. Beach, some corals, then the abyss. Yikes. Calm thoughts. Think long. Focus on your stroke. Relax. When I lifted my head to sight, I was way off course. I had to work my way back to the buoy.
I stopped briefly to admire the yatch. Wow! One day, I should get one for Noy. Hey, it’s free to dream right? I continued swimming. Hey, fish. Cool. Hey, what are those? They look like swimming fireflies. Oh, it’s another buoy. Damn, this guy beside me who was not swimming but was instead pulling the lane line. Whenever there was a nearby kayak, he would swim. Once the kayak is out of sight, he would again pull the line. Tsk tsk. I wanted to reprimand him but I should just really mind my own business. I continued on. I keep on bumping the big orange buoys (Blooper # 1) and keep on hitting the lane lines that I decided to just stay far away from both. Before I knew it, my hand was able to touch the sand. I stood up and realized that the shore was only a few steps ahead of me. How embarrassing. Blooper # 2. I was surprised to find out that I finished the swim event in 46mins. I know it’s slow but I was expecting to finish in 60mins if I do finish at all.
I should’ve fixed my hair before going to the transition area.
Transition 1
Wipe feet. Wear shoes. Helmet. Bib. Shades. Consume GU. Camelbak (Yes, I decided to wear this. Better to look foolish than to be thirsty). Bike.
I hurried to the mount area. Dreading that I might not be able to clip my shoes to the pedal. True enough, I had a difficult time. What do I do? Time was ticking and I still have not mounted my bike. Ah…a truck. I made my way to the truck, held on to it for support and clipped my shoes to its pedals. Yes! Blooper # 3.
Bike
Timmy, Glenda and I did a bike recon a week before challenge of the TU1 route. It was a pleasant ride, some hills. I found the steep descents coupled with winding terrain a bit too scary for me so I took my time. I really need to work on making U-turns while on my bike. I slow down almost to a complete stop and I lose the momentum. This is definitely an area that needs improvement.
I wonder what I was doing with my right foot. It looks twisted to me. Odd…
Thank you for the photo 🙂
I looked really happy 🙂
Thanks for the photo Tagumpay Bros!
Some say my seat is a bit too low. But any higher than this would make my leg super straight when extended. I bought this bike second hand from a friend of James Rosca. She’s about 5’4″-5’6″ so obviously the bike is too big for me. But I just loved it the first time I saw it. Maybe this is why my seat looks too low when in fact the frame is just too big.
After 10kms or so, a weird sound emanated from under my seat or behind me. I prayed hard that it wasn’t a flat. I brought tools in case I encounter a flat but I didn’t want the hassle of changing my tire. Thank God the sound disappeared after a few minutes. Only to return at km 33. It was ignored by yours truly. I know I didn’t give it my all during the bike ride. I was conserving my energy for the run. Since I didn’t wear my trusty Garmin, I had no idea what my cadence was, what my Heart Rate was. But after the ride, my legs didn’t even feel heavy.
Transition 2
I was happy that I didn’t fall as I dismounted my bike. As I was heading into the second transition, I was surprised to see so many triathletes barefoot as they were jogging/walking towards their designated spots. I soon found out why. It was so difficult to jog wearing your cleats! My spot was so faaaar. It must’ve taken me more than 3 minutes to get to my spot. It’s amazing how the others seem to look like they’re fully in control of their bikes, with just one hand on the saddle or on the handle bar. I, on the other hand, was really struggling so I decided to just take my time.
See how my bike is slated towards me? I tried to keep it upright but it didn’t want to. I must be really short…Haha!
Socks. Shoes. Cap. Consume GU. Hydrate with Gatorade. I forgot to remember to comb hair and more importantly, LEAVE BOTTLE OF GATORADE. I realized that I was holding on to my 24oz bottle! Blooper # 4.
There was this one guy who ran beside me and said – Takot ka ata mauhaw? (Afraid to get thirsty?). Hahaha! I wanted to leave the bottle at one of the hydration stations but it might get lost so I hanged on to it.
Me with my HUGE bottle. Haha!
As I was heading towards the first turn around point, I saw Candy already at her 2nd loop. She told me – Next time choose a smaller bottle. Haha! She wanted me to run with her but I decided to keep my own pace afraid that I would run out of juice during the 2nd loop.
Majul overtook me a few minutes after seeing Candy. She was really going strong. I was really proud of my teammates 🙂
During the bike leg, I was worried that I have not seen hubby. They started 30 minutes behind us as part of Wave 3. I saw James and Sherwin who were also part of Wave 3 but not my Noy. I was worried that something might’ve happened to him during the swim. Thankfully, I saw him as I was finishing my first loop. I quickly shouted out – What happened to you? Ang bagal mo! (You’re so slow!) Of course, I was kidding.
My humongous bike bottle was getting in the way. I had to get rid of it somehow. Thankfully, I saw Carina and Raffy and left the bottle to their care.
See me without the bottle? 🙂
My teammate Sherwin caught up to me and asked, how fast are you going? To which I replied, Not sure as I didn’t wear my Garmin. Well, your pace is about 6:15. I thought to myself – will I make it? Can I keep this up? Don’t pressure me Sherwin! Haha!
I saw my Coach, Ige Lopez twice during the run leg and he actually had a smile on his face, encouraging me and saying I was doing well. That boosted my will to finish strong. I initially didn’t have a target time. But I knew that I needed a goal. I wanted to finish the swim in an hour, bike in an hour and 20 mins and run at 1 hour 10. So I should finish in 3 hours 30 mins. Naturally, my target is sub 3:30.
It was getting really hot. I can feel the heat burning my neck, my scalp, my arms. But I don’t let it get to me. I continued running. Don’t stop. Don’t stop. I said a prayer which inspired me to say the rosary. On the 3rd mystery, I realized that I was almost at the finish line 3:25. Push. Push. There…I can finally see the finish line. A guy in front of me was taking his time. I didn’t want to overtake him as I didn’t want to be rude so I shouted – Go go go instead.
I MADE IT!!! Sub-3:30!!!
I MADE IT! Sub 3:30!
I SURVIVED! I screamed a loud YES!!! And saw two strangers who shared my enthusiasm giving me two thumbs up!
Thank you LORD! With you nothing is impossible!
See my 1st finisher photo? That’s Blooper # 5. I didn’t realize that the banner would cover almost half my face. Haha! Nonetheless, my teammate, Majul Maccay made me feel better. This is her finisher photo.
Thank you Majul for making me feel better!!! 🙂
Sorry, I couldn’t stop laughing when I saw it! Peace Majul! PS This was posted with approval from Majul. Hehe!
I saw my Coaches Nonoy Basa and Ige Lopez. They congratulated me and I thanked them immensely. After chatting with friends and teammates, I decided to look for Noy and pace him.
So proud of Noy because he finished in 3:34, only a few minutes behind me. Indeed my hubby is improving.
Overall, the event was well attended, well organized. There were ample hydration stations and the post race food was super good. Ineng’s barbeque FTW! My only concern was the lack of finisher’s medal. Apparently, finisher medals were available for redemption at the Bike King booth. No one knew because it wasn’t announced. As soon as Noy and I found out that these were available, we headed back to the event and claimed ours.
A gift to my son who just turned 17 on race day 🙂
For those who have not redeemed their medals, please see Bike King’s announcement below:
“If you did not receive your finisher’s medal yesterday, you may claim it starting today at Bike King, Bonifacio High Street. A valid ID will be required. We will also honor authorization letters with copies of your ID. We are open everyday from 11:00am to 10:00pm.
Should you prefer pick up in any of our accredited registration centers or wish us to send the medal directly to your residential address, kindly send us an email by March 17 at registration@bikekingphilippines.com“
This was me. After freshening up. Ready to drive back to Manila.
I look forward to more tri races in the future! See you at the starting line.
Dear Blog, as I write this entry I am nursing a sore body but my experience yesterday is worth it.
As you know, I was really anxious about the open water swim event. What made it worst, was the fact that my last swim training was a week ago. I skipped the Wednesday and Friday sessions primarily due to work. I had meetings and visitors from Myanmar who I needed to entertain.
Come Saturday my anxiety level was off the charts. I was suppose to attend a friend’s wedding in Tagaytay but due to unforeseen circumstances (driver issues), I ended my morning errands late and had no time to drive down south. Hubby and I decided instead to drive to Subic early to claim our kits.
The last time hubby was in Subic was 6 to 7 years ago. Whenever we want to hit the beach we would head over to Nasugbu. I just realized that Subic had nice beaches when I joined my friends Timmy and Glenda during their swim-bike-run recon a week before Challenge. Thankfully, we had Waze to guide us where to go.
After checking in, we headed to the venue of the expo. We arrived quite late so there were less people. It was pretty organized even if the girl who assisted me kept on chatting with the person ahead of me insisting for him to open a bank account with her at AUB. Haha!
Claiming our race kits
Patiently waiting
Nice medals and trophies!
After claiming our kits, we lingered around to check out the goods that were on sale. In addition to taking more photos 🙂
Feeling the race vibes 🙂
Ooops…Sorry Ny! Haha
After checking out the goods, we went outside of the function room to look at the race maps. And there it was…my dreaded 1.5k swim. This used to be two loops. Noy would assure me that if I get tired after 750m, I can stay by the shore to rest before heading back for another 750m. This was before they changed the route to one big loop. Oh no…
Noy, with that confident smug look on his face…Grrr
Our “tags”. Noy’s race number is 278. Reminds me of my old Nextel ID 278.
After speaking with this lady from Bike King who gave us a semi shocked look when she found out that this was our first open water tri and we chose to race under the standard category, we headed out of the hotel and into town to buy supplies for tomorrow’s race.
We checked in Subic International Hotel Delta which was a stone’s throw away from Harbor Point Mall. I seriously wanted to go shopping as there were so many items on sale. But seeing Noy’s disapproving look made me think otherwise. Haha!
After our brief visit to the mall, we headed back to the hotel to fix our stuff for the race. Inside the packet was our race bib, race number for the helmet and a sticker for the top tube. I seriously did not know where to place the sticker. The girl said it had to be visible on the top tube so I placed it on the side. Seeing the bikes of others during the event made me realize that my choice was an odd one. Hahaha!
This is where I placed my top tube sticker.
His and hers. Obviously, my box is the organized one.
Noy’s baby is all set
All set!
After our preparations, we headed to Subic Bay Yatch Club to meet up with our Greenhills Tri Teammates for dinner. Since Noy and I were pretty new to the team, we got acquainted and re-acquainted with some members. I learned that Majul and Candy joined the standard distance too. Yipee!
My swim coach, Nonoy Basa called to check on me. He knows that I was dreading the open water swim and gave me some tips:
1. Stay a few meters away from the buoy. I envisioned 10meters. Work your way in towards the buoy when the crowd thins. In this manner, you will not get carried away by the crowd and can overtake slow swimmers.
2. Relax. Think long and focus on your strokes.
3. Sight every 5-6 strokes.
4. Look down and keep your head under as to reduce drag.
5. Enjoy and take it easy. Do not panic.
When I got back to the table, Noy asked me why Nonoy did not call him. Jealous much? Hahaha!
After dinner, we had our team photo taken. Then headed back to the hotel to get some good night’s rest.
Greenhills Tri Team at Subic Bay Yatch Club
To be continued…
Blog, last Saturday I joined my teammates in Jala-Jala Rizal for a long bike ride. My program with Coach Ige stated that I do a 30k-8k brick. But I already scheduled this trip with the team so I cannot postpone it. Will just have to make sure I run after the ride.
Truth be told, long rides are becoming an addiction of ours. In the middle of the week, Noy and I would look forward to group rides in Nuvali. It’s habit-forming. I just really hate the 5 hills of Nuvali. Haha!
We met up with the team at Shellibee (Jollibee at Shell gas station according to Sherwin) along Marcos Highway. There were about 10 of us excited to bike in Rizal. Going to Jala-Jala was quite a drive. We had to past by Antipolo, Teresa, Morong before finally getting to Tanay. We parked beside Bulawan Floating Restaurant and made our way to Jala-Jala via Pilillia-Jala-Jala-Pakil Road.
Our Jala-Jala route
Surprisingly, there were a lot of vehicles on the road. I kept on thinking – Why did I wear my cleats? Why oh why?… Thank God I was able to maneuver my way through tricycles, jeepneys and pedicabs.
The air was clean. The view was fantastic. The roads were flat. And they were animals beside the road! Herd of goats. Carabaos! I even saw a horse without a carriage! How exciting! I love the provincial life! 🙂
View going down to Jala-Jala. Photo courtesy of Melody Yapson.
Since I had a target heart rate to achieve, I had to pedal harder, faster. I was flying and it was exhilarating and thrilling. Well, until I realized that I was all alone. Hubby told me that there were rebels in this part of Rizal and the presence of military checkpoints made his case. I slowed down and waited for him to catch up. I was in serious trouble. True enough, when Noy caught up to me, he has this angry look on his face and he said: Don’t go too far on your own. I may not be able to get to you immediately.
I wanted to ride some more but we were already at our halfway point km30 😦 So we had to head back. But not before posing for some photos 🙂
That’s Laguna de Bay
Noy posing by the bay
I love provincial life!
It was a good thing I took photos as I saw my son’s driver’s text message informing us that he wasn’t going to work. Thank God I found a temp driver to fill in.
Noy and I headed back. Sad that we couldn’t join the team as they pedaled their way to where we came from 😦 I wasn’t even part of the team photo. Booo!
My GHTT teammates
The ride back to town was uneventful, except for this instance where I stopped at a gas station to wait for Noy and fell while I was getting back on the bike. Grrrr… Haha!
When I got to highway, I got off my bike to walk the last 200m to the car. I didn’t want to cross the busy road for fear of getting bumped by oncoming traffic.
Since it was past 11am, I decided to just do a quick 5k run. Noy didn’t want me venturing too far from where we were parked so I had to make do with going back and forth a 1k stretch. I thought to myself – I look ridiculous. People were starting to stare. Tricycle drivers were unforgiving stopping right in front of me by the sidewalk. No respect for pedestrians at all! Oh well, I gotta do what I was “commanded” to do.
It’s amazing how consistent training can make a difference in performance within a short amount of time. I still remember my second bike ride in Nuvali where I felt tired that I had to make do with a 50k ride. Now 60k seems just right.
My first Olympic distance triathlon will be on Sunday. I know that I am ready for the bike and run leg. I trained for it. I know I can also finish the swim event. The only question is – how fast can I finish? #feelinghopeful
This is my road to finishing an IronMan70.3 event. This is my ultimate goal.
My first open water standard distance Triathlon is two weeks away. Actually less than two weeks! I am anxious and so worried blog.
Swim 1.5k
I am still unsure if I can handle swimming in open water for probably 40-50 minutes (without panic) or more than an hour (with a lot of panic) or maybe not finishing the race all together. Oh no!!! *anxiety attack* *cold clammy hands* *panic panic panic* *deep breathing* *relaxing* *sighing*
Bike 40k
Now, am I ready for the bike portion? I do believe I can bike 40k. It shouldn’t be hard. The question really is – am I ready to bike 40k with cleats, without falling and being able to dismount without assistance or stepping on an elevated sidewalk? That’s a different story. Should I wear cleats? Or should I just wear my running shoes? Oh Lord…please help me…
Last Saturday, hubby woke me up at 430am for our scheduled brick session. Coach Ige’s program demanded (yes, I really have to put emphasis on demanded-hehe!) that I bike 60k and run 12k. I just got back from a three day trip from Myanmar the night before and I was exhausted. It was the first time that I actually did not feel like getting out of bed to train as opposed to my husband. He normally hates waking up so early to train. Good thing, I married a persistent man. He may be persistent but he sure moves really slow in the morning. Haha! We ended up leaving the house at 6am. We wanted to go to Nuvali but got stuck in horrendous traffic along EDSA for half an hour. Yes, it was traffic in EDSA due to some re-blocking work at that time. I have a photo to prove it…
Traffic along EDSA at 6am!
Too late to go to Nuvali so we ended up in MOA instead. Oh MOA. Oh people. Oh vehicles. Oh fast bikers. I decided – No cleats. I just hope that my legs won’t be too tired to run after the bike ride.
That’s hubby beside that huge bus…
Logged in 52k in 1 hour 58 mins, average HR 132, Max HR 157, ave cadence 73. Including stops to take photos. Haha!
Run 10k
Ahhhh, now finally…a sport where I am not necessarily good at but at least one thing I know that I can do.
Last Saturday after my bike ride, I was able to run 10k. As expected, my legs were heavy during the 1st 5 minutes but eventually I was able to sustain the pace I wanted. I was surprised that my legs adjusted even before hitting my first kilometer. The sun was out but I was in my element so I just ran. Hubby wanted to try running without socks (just like the pros, he said) and naturally developed a blister. Eeep!
10k run – 1 hour 10 mins, average HR 152, Max HR 166, ave speed 6:50
My tip: After the bilk leg, DO NOT WALK. Do not give in to the desire to walk. You will lose momentum and eventually you will lose your will to run. Increase your stride rate. It doesn’t matter if you’re slow as long as you’re not walking.
After the brick session
Back to the topic. Am I ready for TriUnited 1? I honestly do not know the answer to that. I know I can swim. But is it good enough? It is as I would always say – Life threatening. I know I can bike. But can I do it without falling? I definitely know I can run. Well, at least I’m comfortable with at least one sport. 1/3 doesn’t seem like a good ratio….
I guess every beginner triathlete can relate.
Swimming. I used to hate it. I hate the feeling of having to time your breath. It’s the most unnatural thing for me to do. I am foremost and first a runner. Second a biker. Barely a swimmer. But how can one be a triathlete without learning to love the water?
To build my confidence, I got myself a coach. I enrolled under Nonoy Basa. After just 3 sessions, I could feel my technique and form improve. After 6 sessions, I was able to slash my 1k time by 10 minutes. Pure joy. Hardwork but pure joy 🙂
Last weekend, I tried to swim in open water with my fave tri couple Timmy and Glenda. I was amazed that I felt comfortable and confident. However, I kept on veering to one side. That, for me, is a major issue. I realized that sighting is as important as form, technique and speed. With just a month to go before my 1st Olympic distance triathlon, I must also learn how to do proper sighting. Oh boy. So much work to be done. So little time.
Having said that, I am off to do another round of swim practice. Yes I know. I just came from one last night. But a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do to survive in this world called triathlon training.
See you later!
Running will always be my first passion. I started this blog as a way to express my love for this sport and although it has somewhat evolved into many other things, running is and will still be an essential part of this web diary.
Having said this, I am absolutely thrilled to be joining one of the events that culminates the must anticipated Run United series. For details on this event, please see below.
I suggest you register early as this event sells faaaast… See you there!
2014 Run United 1 will be held on March 16, 2014 with 500m, 5k, 10k, and 21k race categories. All categories will have a start and finish at the SM Mall of Asia.
Online registration will start January 31, 2014 at http://www.runrio.com.
You may purchase the prepaid cards at the following stores: from 12:00NN to 8:00PM Monday to Sunday starting February 8, 2014.
Riovana Store BGC
28th Street corner 9th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
Riovana Store Katipunan
3rd Floor Regis Building, Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City (across Ateneo, and beside KFC)
Toby’s
SM North – The Block G/F, North Ave. cor. EDSA Quezon City
SM Mall of Asia, G/F Entertainment Hall, Roxas Blvd, Manila
For online registrants: singlet will be provided during the race kit collection, sizes option will be available online on a first-come, first-served basis.
For in-store registrants: singlet will be given upon registration, sizes will be on a first-come, firstserved basis. Singlet and finishers shirt sizes will be available for fitting.
Registration Fees
Assembly Time
Reminders:
Registration is on a first-come, first served basis, and may end earlier than the announced deadline. Race slots may run out before March 9, 2014.
Runners who buy prepaid cards at our stores will receive their singlet upon purchase. Runners must collect the rest of their race kit (race bib and Active Health items) at Race Kit Claiming on the following dates.
o March 13- 14 Music Hall at the Mall of Asia, 10am – 10pm
o March 15, Active Health Village, Block 16 Mall of Asia, 10am – 6pm
Singlet and finisher’s shirt size availability will be on first-come, first-served basis.
Singlet and finishers shirt sample sizes will be available for fitting at the registration centers.
A Valid ID must be presented at Race Kit Claiming. Those claiming race kits for others must bring authorization letters.
D-Tag will be provided to every participant to get the runner’s accurate time result and must be surrendered to claim the finisher’s item after the race.
No BIB, No D-TAG, NO RACE.
Race Results
Race results will be available within three (3) days after the race at the following websites:www.unilabactivehealth.com and http://www.runrio.com.
Timing and Race Results: feedback@runrio.com
Contact Details
For Online and In-Store Registration Inquiries:
Landline (+632) 463 4813 or (+632) 463 4814
Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 5pm only, except holidays.
FAQs
1) REGISTRATION
How can I register for this race?
You can register online for 2014 RUN UNITED 1 from January 31 to March 9, 2014. Log on to http://www.runrio.com and click on the Run United logo to be redirected to the registration page.
What if I don’t have a credit card to register online?
You may buy your Run United 1 Prepaid Card at Riovana branches and selected Toby’s branches starting February 8, 2014. These prepaid cards have a unique code, which you feed into the online registration form to complete your registration. If you lose the unused card, you will need to buy another prepaid card to register. The lost or misplaced cards will not be replaced.
What if I buy the prepaid card and don’t register online?
Your registration will be incomplete and you will not be able to join the race. You must use your prepaid card to register on or before March 9, 2014.
Can I fill out a form at the store instead of registering online?
No, our entire registration process is online. Runners who will purchase pre-paid cards in Riovana can already register online using the available computers at the store.
What if I lose my Internet connection while registering?
When you come back to the registration page and enter your email id, the system will find your form and you can continue filling it out.
Where can I buy the prepaid cards?
You may purchase the prepaid cards at the following stores (MONDAY-SUNDAY, 12noon-8pm only). Riovana Store BGC 28th Street corner 9th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City Riovana Store Katipunan 3rd Floor Regis Building, Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City (across Ateneo, and beside KFC) Toby’s SM North – The Block G/F, North Ave. cor. EDSA Quezon City Toby’s SM Mall of Asia, G/F Entertainment Hall, Roxas Blvd, Manila
Can I buy more than one prepaid card?
Yes. You can buy as many as you like for yourself and your friends and family. However, one prepaid card can be used only for one registrant.
How do I know if I have been officially registered?
Upon successful registration, the registration confirmation slip will appear on the screen available for print. An email will also be sent to the email address that you provide with your registration confirmation slip.
Is there a deadline for registration?
Race slots may be sold-out before the announced deadline (March 9, 2014). When this happens, we shall stop selling prepaid cards and close online registration.
Can I register myself in more than one category?
No. We do not allow multiple category registration as this may affect or disrupt your timing and for safety purposes as well.
After I have successfully registered for the event, can I change my event category? No. Registration is non-transferable and non-refundable.
Should I choose not to participate after I’ve registered for the event, can I withdraw?
Yes. However, please note our withdrawal policy. Withdrawal Policy Participants who chose not to take part in the event after having registered can choose to withdraw. However, please note that there will not be any registration fee refund. Race slots are also strictly non-transferable.
Is it possible to make changes to the information I have provided after registration?
Yes, you may email your changes to feedback@runrio.com. However, please note that changes in your information are limited to typographical errors and change in address and contact numbers only.
What should I do if I have accidentally deleted my confirmation email?
You may email us at feedback@runrio.com and we will resend your confirmation email to your specified email address. If a confirmation email is not received within 24 hours, you may call the race organizers
What should I do if I didn’t get my confirmation email?
If a confirmation email is not received within 24 hours, you may email us at feedback@runrio.com and we will send your confirmation email to your specified email address.
2) RACE CATEGORIES
What are the race categories?
– 500m 5-8 years old, boys and girls
– 500m 9-12 years old, boys and girls
– 5K male and female
– 10K male and female
– 21K male and female
3) PAYMENT MODES
What are the available registration payment modes?
Participants can choose to pay through
Credit Card (Paypal charges shall apply on top of the published registration fees)
Cash Purchase of prepaid cards
Is the online registration system secure? Yes. We use a security system consistent with the banking industry standards of the Philippines.
4) RACE KIT COLLECTION
What is in my race kit?
The race pack is an exclusive event pack, which consists of
Active Health Limited Edition CITIVS – F Singlet
3 pieces Enervon Activ
Race Bib with D-Tag timing Device & Raffle Stub
Active Health Sun Visor
Active Health Ventilation Bag
When and where can I collect my Race Kit?
All race participants who purchase prepaid cards at the stores will immediately receive their singlet together with their prepaid card. They must collect the rest of their race kit (race bib and lootbag) during the Run United 1 Race Kit Collection event on the following dates:
March 13- 14 Music Hall at the Mall of Asia from 10am – 10pm
March 15, Active Health Village, Block 16 Mall of Asia 10am – 6pm
How do I get my singlet if I paid online via credit card?
Those who pay via credit card shall be allowed to select their singlet size online. You will receive your singlet during Race Kit Collection together with the rest of your race kit. No deliveries shall be made.
Important: Please bring your ID and Confirmation Slip to collect your race pack. For those who are unable to personally collect their Race Kit, please have a representative pick it up on your behalf. Your representative must have a letter of authorization from you. Your representative must show this letter along with a copy of your Confirmation Slip.
What should I present to claim my race kit?
Aside from a print out of your confirmation slip, you should present a valid ID.
Is it mandatory to pick up my race kit? Yes. As the race kit includes your race bib as well as your timing tag (D-Tag). Without this, you will not be able to join the race. Strictly no collecting of race packs on race day.
Can someone else pick up my race kit on my behalf?
Yes, you can have someone else pick up your race pack on your behalf should you not be able to make it. However, you’ll need to issue that person a letter of authorization and a copy of your valid ID (school, employee, SSS, TIN, Driver’s License, Passport, Postal, GSIS, Voter’s ID).
Is it possible to collect my race kit on race day? No. Runners who arrive on race day without their race kit will not be allowed to join the race. No bib, no D-tag, no race.
Can I have my race kit mailed / couriered to me?
No. Should you not be able to make it yourself, kindly authorize somebody else to pick it up on your behalf.
5) THE PHYSICAL RACE
Where should I line up for the start of the race?
The starting line for ALL categories shall be along Seaside Boulevard at the Mall of Asia grounds.
The 21k, 10k and 5k participants’ starting line is along Seaside Blvd. North bound (near Block 16) in Mall of Asia.
The 500m dash participants’ starting line is along Seaside Blvd. North bound (near Block 16) in Mall of Asia.
The 500m dash participants’ wrist tags are provided upon registration. The parent and child participant must put on their corresponding wrist tags complete with contact details on race day. NO tag, NO race.
Where can I leave my belongings?
Baggage deposit facilities will be made available for you. We recommend that you arrive earlier than the gun time to deposit your bags to avoid delays. You must deposit your baggage/s at designated baggage deposit tents for your particular distance. While maximum care and security will be enforced, the organizers will not be responsible for any loss or damaged items or delays in retrieving bags. We strongly advise that you do not to leave any valuables in your bags. The race organizer and any of its sponsors will not be held liable for any loss or damage to your personal items.
Is it necessary to wear the D-tag timing device?
Yes, as this is will be used to measure your accurate race results and split times.
Do I need to return the D-Tag upon completing the Race? Yes, we will collect the D-tag at the Finishers Area. No D-tag, No Finishers Items.
Finisher Items
What happens if I am injured along the Race route? First Aid stations can be found along the race route as well. You may also alert Route Marshals or patrolling Paramedics regarding your injury.
6) THE RACE ROUTE
What is the Race Route? Please visit http://www.unilabactivehealth.com
Will there be a cut-off time for the start of the race?
All categories will have 2 wave starts with 5 minutes intervals. ALL CATEGORIES have a start cut-off time of 15 minutes after the last wave start. Runners who arrive later than 15 minutes after gunstart will no longer be allowed to start the race for safety and security reasons. In order to ensure timely re-opening of roads to normal traffic and help ensure your safety, the race organizer will deploy a vehicle to pickup all remaining runners on the race route starting at 7:30am. By this time, all participants are encouraged to stop running and board the official vehicle. They are automatically disqualified and will be taken directly to the finish venue.
7) PARTICIPANTS
What are the measurements of the 2014 Run United 1 singlet? Here is the 2014 Run United 1 Singlet Size Chart
What if the 2014Run United 1 race singlet does not fit me? Can I still participate in the race? Can I exchange it for a different size?
Yes you may still participate in the race. Singlet can also be exchanged within seven (7) days after date of purchase. Singlet can be exchanged provided it is in new and original condition. Singlet sizes are also subject to availability.
What drinks will be available for us?
You can refresh yourself with Gatorade and water at the hydration stations.
Are walkers permitted to participate in Run United 1? Yes. But should you wish to walk during the race, kindly keep to the right side of the route to allow faster competitors to pass.
Can I bring my pet dog with me for the race? No. For the safety of the other runners, pets are strictly not allowed at the event site.
Will wheelchairs, bikes, skates or strollers be allowed on the race route?
No. Instruments with built-in wheels other than those on the official vehicles will not be allowed on the race course.
8) SUPPORTERS
Will my family and friends be allowed to come support me at the Event?
Yes, supporters are most welcome to cheer you on anywhere along the entire race route. Please remind them though that they should be mindful not to block the path/route that the participants run in.
9) RACE AWARDS What prizes will be awarded for each category?
Where and when will the Awards Presentation Ceremony be held?
The Awards Ceremony will be held at the Unilab Active Health Village on the day of the race.
10) TRANSPORTATION
How do I get to the race site?
The Race Start is located at Seaside Boulevard near Block 16 for ALL race categories. There are various ways to get to the race site. These are via:
Cab/Taxi
Bus or public transport
Will there be road closures and parking facilities at the start and finish line?
Yes, there will be road closures. Parts of the race route on the event day will be closed to traffic. Please refer to the official road advisory in the official race guide for specific road closure timings.
At the MOA, you may park at the following areas:
South Parking Building (Car Park Building above Dept Store)
North Parking Building (Car Park Building above Hypermarket)
South Open Parking (Open Car Park in between Arena and SMX) North Open Parking (Open Car Park in between One E-com and SMDC Showroom)
Block 2 (Open Car Park behind SMX)
Block 12 (Open Car Park between Two E-com and SM By the Bay)
11) OTHERS
Who can I contact for more information? For inquiries, you may call us through any of the following landline numbers from Monday to Friday (9:00am – 5:00pm), except holidays. Landline (+632) 463 4813 or (+632) 463 4814 For your other concerns and feedback email: feedback@runrio.com
I have been enduring swimming in cold water for about two weeks now. I have heard that there are several benefits to swimming in cold water such as increase in immune system, increase blood flow etc but I do not think it’s working out for me. I have been nursing a cough with a slight cold since the time I started swimming in this weather and in cold water. Unfortunately, it seems that I just have to endure this until the weather gets warmer. So what can one do to continue training during this cold weather in cold water?
I looked through some sites online and discovered tips which I am willing to try out of desperation. Haha!
1. Use body lotion or petroleum jelly
A tip which I learned from Glenda, a fellow runner and triathlete. Tried it once and it seemed to have worked. I haven’t tried it in this new venue though.
2. Double your swim cap
Odd but they say that it traps heat in your head. Worth a shot.
3. Wear a wetsuit
Hey, it’s not that cold. Although hubby was seriously considering buying himself one. But settled for a rash guard instead. I gotta try wearing a rash guard too.
4. Earplugs
Not only will it keep your core temperature up but it will prevent you from experiencing vertigo (dizziness). Not sure about keeping up the temp but absolutely certain about the vertigo as per our GreenhillsTriTeam’s president resident ENT, Dr Peter Jarin.
5. Blow bubbles before taking off on your swim
When the cold water hits your face, the shock causes your lungs to contract, causing breathing problems. Go waist deep into the water and submerge your face to blow bubbles. This helps alleviate the shock of the cold water. Taken from Active.com.
6. Keep on moving.
Now this I know. Does it help? Yep! Until I get out of the water. Brrrrr…
Anyone else willing to share tips to keeping warm while swimming?
Let’s swim!
Some triathlete friends describe training for Triathlons as a swim-bike-eat-sleep-run-bike-eat sleep-repeat process. I didn’t quite understood their description until this week.
Preparing for the IronMan70.3 event in August was making me feel anxy. Blog, you know what happens when I get anxious right? I get stressed, worried and I lose my cool. So not good for the skin. I wouldn’t want wrinkles to start to show. Anyway, I knew that I needed to get help someone. Particularly a tri and a swim coach as well, swimming being my weakness. I did mention that I wanted Ige Lopez as my tri coach so after a short meeting, he agreed to develop my program.
Week 1
He emailed me the program late Tuesday. Saw it after I got home from my 1.4k swim. It was intense but again, I gotta do what I came here to do so I vowed to follow the program to the tee.
Wednesday – 12k run
Truth be told, my last training run was December 28. It was a short but sweet 6.5K run around Alabang. We had a short staycation at Crimson Hotel in Alabang after my 8yo’s visit to the pedia. I know what you’re thinking – Uhoh, you are so not ready for the 12k run. You said it. I was determined to finish the distance prescribed by Coach Ige and so I did. It wasn’t one of my best performance but I still finished it. The route I took was the same route we always take. BHS, Mckinley Drive, Lawton until Bayani road (I added this part), down Mckinley Hill and back, left near Blue Leaf, towards Emperador stadium and back, up again towards Lawton, right towards Mckinley drive. If this was our normal 8k route, we would’ve made a right going back to BHS across Audi. But our target was 12k so we made a left towards Pacific Plaza, passed Mind Museum, St. Lukes, right behind St. Luke’s S&R, right towards BHS. We wouldn’t gone straight towards our starting point but we’re still missing 1.3k so we made a right towards Track 30, followed the “big loop” of BHS. Ended by the parking where we started at exactly 12.1k. Cool huh? I knew exactly what route to take. Smart? Nah! Just prepared. I used mapmyrun to well map my run.
My right trapezius was killing me. My right hip was in pain but I was happy. I so missed running beyond my usual 8k. Haha! I still had enough energy to go shopping. Wanted to buy a Garmin cadence sensor as Noy accidentally broke mine by not installing it properly. What a waste. It’s a good thing though that I decided to just buy it over the web. Got it only for $33, down from $68. Thank you Amazon!
Thursday – 1hr on trainer, 2k swim (or so I thought)
I was in pain when I went to bed that I was laughing at myself coz I felt like an old lady. When I woke up the next day, the pain was gone but I felt sluggish. I had to fight the urge to go back to bed. I dragged myself to the room to change, to the playroom/gym to ride my bike. I kept on asking myself – why are you doing this Gail? Sigh… But when I started pedalling, I found myself again in my happy place. Endorphins, I love you!
One hour passed by quickly. I wasn’t even able to finish the episode of The Mentalist that I was watching. Had to run to meetings and was looking forward to tonight’s swim. Telling myself….I really need a swim coach.
Ask and you shall receive. I got a call from Nonoy Basa who I sent text message to the previous day. He said that he was opening up a class in Chateau Verde Valle Verde 1 which was way easier to get to than Makati sports. However, sessions would be Wednesdays and Fridays. Ohhhh…gotta inform Coach Ige so he can adjust my program. This means that my 2k swim will not be happening that evening. Awwww…. Hubby also didn’t want to swim so double awwwwww….
Thank God for teammates! I quickly messaged my female Greenhills Tri teammates asking if anyone of them would like to swim with me. Fortunately, Lianne Yao gave me a huge YES! She’s swimming at Celebrity Sports Club and has invited me to join her. Yay! 2k swim here I come!
I did my first 2k straight swim in Celebrity’s ice cold water. Seriously, ice cold. Brrrrr…. Lianne, was faster and definitely more graceful than me. By the end of my swim, my left arm was so painful that I could barely move it without feeling an pain. This is a big problem, I told myself.
The odd thing was, I notice that after each swim training, I find myself starving. But when I run, I do not feel hungry. Maybe I’m dehydrated when I swim. Got to figure this out or else, the more I swim, the more I eat. Noooooo….
Friday – Bike 1 hr (which slipped my mind) + 2k swim
I felt refreshed the next day. I felt uneasy that I wasn’t doing any exercise in the morning. I told myself – Oh it’s my restday. Uhoh…apparently, my schedules got mixed up as Coach Ige had to adjust it to accommodate my training sessions with Noynoy. Silly me.
I couldn’t wait for the day to end so I can start my swim lessons. Friday traffic made my drive to Valle Verde 1 a really daunting task. It took me an hour to get there. Thankfully, Coach Nonoy was busy swimming when I arrived. It was a cool, windy evening and since his condo’s 25m pool was elevate, it made it even worse. This will be one cold cold swim session.
First on the agenda: video analytics. Nonoy had me swim 200m while he takes my video to analyze my strokes. He explained to me areas of improvement but generally said that I will probably survive the swim event of a triathlon. Yahoo! ….But probably won’t meet cut-off….Awwwww….
Second: Drills. Since Nonoy Basa is a Total Immersion instructor, he explained to me drills which I was a bit familiar with. However, he added some strategies which he feels are important when competing.
Last: Cool down. He wanted to extend the session but I was already freezing. Plus some of hubby’s friends were in our house for a post holiday get together. Yeah right, truth be told, I was just really freezing.
Saturday – 10k negative split
I normally see to it that I train with hubby. It’s very important, well for me at least, to spent quality time with your spouse by going out on dates and doing things together. Even though we weren’t training for a race, we make sure that we run together at least twice a week. Once a week, we would catch a movie after our run. We do not let our hectic lives get in the way of time spent together ❤
However, since hubby lacked sleep from partying the night before, I decided to break this trend and train alone. I had to stick to my program. I knew that some of my GHTT teammates were training in Aguinaldo so I decided to run there. I parked in Logcom and started my training. After 4k, I saw Melly and her boyfie, Franz. She said that some of our teammates were by the pool. Since I didn’t know where the pool was, I decided to continue on. Finally! The familiar site of our team uniform. I immediately headed back and joined them. I ran with Jaan and Josette who I must say were quite fast. They showed me a route at the back of the main road which had killer hills. Uhoh…next time, do not run with podium finishers…I told myself. Haha! After 6k more or less, I finished my 10k and had to get home so I can have breakfast with my family. Finished the 10k at 1 hour 14minutes. As Coach Ige said, still slow. Remember your goal is to get closer to 10k. Haha!
Sunday – 60k bike ride
Nuvali! I fell in love with Nuvali the first time I cruised through its false flats, uphills and descends. I couldn’t wait to ride there again. I told myself that I was ready to experience it again. 60k shouldn’t be so bad. Oh blog…I was so wrong…
Hubby & I met up with my GHTT treammates Lianne (she rode with me), Melody, Melly, Malou, Berns, Franz and others at 7-11. Some went ahead while others stayed and waited for the others.
I knew something was up the first few kilometers. I was riding with Lods (Melody), a veteran Triathlete until I decided to stop to wait for Noy. My quads/legs felt weak. To think that this was just the first uphill. BIG problem….
I had trouble going up the ascends, felt weak and surprisingly cold. Oh no….thankfully I had a pack of GU which I consumed during the 2nd loop. I knew that I wasn’t able to finished 60k.
Taken during the second loop.
The photo above was taken during the second loop before stopping to consume my GU. Fake smile. Was really struggling here. Imagine, Noy was in front of me? How can that be right? Haha!
During the last 15k, I had the privilege to ride alongside of Berns, who obviously was taking it easy. We chatted and she kept me busy to realize that we were almost back at the parking area. Yes! 50k bike ride done! I was so ready for breakfast. I was 10k below my target distance but 50k is not too shabby. Plus it was faster than our last ride.
Post training team breakfast
My favorite part of team training…the food after 🙂 Yum!
Monday – Rest day
Or so I thought. I lifted light weights and a session of P90x Ab RipperX just to keep my endorphins up.
Tuesday – Run 10k
And so it begins…another week of training. This will be my life for 6 months. I sure hope this suffering will mean that I will survive and finish (within cut-off), the IM70.3 this August.
The last time I was inside Nuvali was May 2010. I was running its roads and trails trying to cover 42.195kms (26.2miles). This was the first The Bull Runner Dream Marathon. My first Full Marathon. Remember that blog? It was quite an experience.
Friday evening, I received a text message from teammate Lianne Yao inviting us to join them for a bike ride in Nuvali. I eagerly replied with a resonating YES! And for the first time hubby wanted to join but his rear tire was deflated. We didn’t let that hinder our plan and made use of our brand new bike pump. Fresh from Rock ‘N Road Bike Shop. I insisted that we needed one so Noy bought one for me. Apparently, he needed it more than I did. Haha!
Because the van was in the shop we had to make do with Noy’s car. He wasn’t confident that the bike rack was stable enough to be driving 100kph in the highway so he stuck to 60-70kph. With barely any cars on the road, we made it to Nuvali in 40 mins. Not bad.
We met up with GHTT teammates Lianne, Arlyn, Teng and Shy. Orion rode ahead. Noy was a bit nervous as it will be his first time to ride with cleats. I was a bit nervous riding with pros. But you gotta do what you came here to do – I said to myself.
Teng gave us tips and strategies to make sure we last during the rode. Cadence is key. Stick to 90 per mins. Use your gears to adjust to your legs not the other way around. Spin rather than mash. During uphill climbs – regulate your breathing, shift your gear to make sure you stick to your cadence, do not bob your body as you are wasting energy, shift your hold to the handle bars. He even waited for us when we were falling behind because Noy had to stop to pump air to his rear tire. For that we are truly grateful.
First loop was done in over an hour. One loop was about 25k. Taking another loop would mean we would cover a distance of 50k. WOW! I asked myself – can I do this? My farthest distance so far was only 35k, can I last another 25? I said to myself – you gotta do what you came here to do. So I happily continued on.
Second loop. Teng went ahead to catch up with Lianne and Arlyn. These ladies mean business. We were about 9k from the turning point and they already started on the second loop. They were FAST! It was just myself, hubs and Shy. We lost Shy as hubby and I were racing against each other. He kept on swooning over his new wheel set which we got from a long time running friend, Doc Art. Upon reaching the industrial park area, we noticed that we lost our way. We were going around in circles. Haha! Well, this means additional mileage. Following some bikers from Aboitiz, we found our way back…back to the killer hill. Without Teng beside me telling me what to do, I was on my own. I grabbed the handle bars, shifted to an appropriate gear, told myself to concentrate on regulating my breathing (think Yoga, deep breathing exercises), stayed upright and looked forward. Keep your cadence at 90, kick, use the power of your legs, relax – I told myself. After a few minutes, it was over. Gave myself an imaginary pat on the back and continued my ride.
I felt ecstatic having been able to conquer that long uphill climb. And I was still ahead of hubby. But my thrill was short lived. Uhoh a fork on the road. Where do I go? I know what you’re thinking blog. I’m suppose to have a good sense of direction. Well I was distracted concentrating on my technique. I’ll do better next time. So I waited to hubby and he led us to the right direction. Yipee! We found our way back to Nuvali Blvd. And back to the parking area. Everyone was done. Teng was already mounting the bikes and the girls were having a drink at 7-11. I ran towards 7-11 just to check how my legs were during the ride. They felt like lead, but after a few meters I concluded that I can still manage maybe a 2k run. Haha! What? It was already 10am and the sun was out. Too hot to run.
You should be proud of me blog – I finished 50k without falling, without walking during the uphill climbs. Woohoo! I feel so proud of hubby though. He did not fall using his cleats and he finished the ride as well. It’s time to celebrate.
We had breakfast with the team at Army Navy. We were famished! No breakfast before a long ride can do that to you. I vow to have a bit of something before we start any training. This means – we need to wake up at least 30mins earlier. Darn… Challenging.
Thank you GHTT ladies plus Teng for the invite, the inspiration and the valuable tips! Looking forward for more team rides in the future.
Gailcons's Blog 