Every Fish Has a Story...

Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish!

2011-10-06T15:04:00.003+08:00

Today we are informed that the father of personal computers and the trail blazer of modern technology has left us.

The world has lost a visionary, and the company has lost a great pilot of innovation and leaders of immense foresight. He has change the whole world on how computing should be. If not for him, there will not be social media, beautiful and well-spaced fonts in your documents, and most of all without him, the whole world will not have smart telecommunication on our palm.

Rest In Peace Steve! We Love You and you will always be remembered for the one that change computing!

God's Creation (Mystical and Unbelievable)

2011-10-05T12:11:00.005+08:00

Chance upon this link lately. This is a documentary series by Discovery Channel that explore the human body by investigating the ultimate testing that human body is able to take and to find the superhuman ability that we have never discovered.

Perhaps this superhuman ability is what people say "God's Strength". This is the strength that perhaps God has put it in way in the beginning that it will only be used and run on overdrive when challenges, crisis and danger happens. That is the awesome and mystical creation that we never knew.

Episode 1

Episode 2

Episode 3

Episode 4

Chronologue of Bikes

2011-10-04T13:25:00.006+08:00

I am not sure how many of you have keep tap of the bikes that you have ridden or at least your mountain bikes. Anyway, I have decided to put down mine since I have just looked back at the bikes that I used to own:

1) 1992 to 1994 - Marin Bolinas Ridge - Rigid Chromoly Straight Gauge with SR Suntour parts

2) 1994 to 1998 - Marin Eldridge Grade - Rigid Chromoly Double Butts with XT parts (Later Upgrade to Manitou 2) and Avid and Paul Component Parts)

3)1998 to 2003 - AMP Research B2 (First Full Suspension in my attempt)

4) 2003 to 2005 - Scott Pro Racing (Aluminium Hardtail)

5) 2007 - Ridley Cobra (Carbon Hardtail with Shimano XT and Disc Brake)

6) 2008 - 2009 - Tomac Automatic (Aluminium Full Suspension)

7) 2009 - 2010 - Tomac Carbide XC (Carbon Full Suspension)

8) 2011 - On-One Inbred (DN6 Chromoly Hardtail)

9) 2011 - Current - Pipedream Cycle Scion (Reynold 853 Chromoly Hardtail)

Guess, I did not go through too much bike in the span of close to 20 years of riding mountain bike after all. But I guess, I have kind of coming full circle. Started with Chromoly and now back to riding one again. I must say this love affair with the metal on two wheels have bring along not just the fun, pain and sure pleasure but also other more inward benefits.

Life on two wheels brought along the friendship forged that lasted and also a great perspective of the preciousness of life. It draws one closer in the spiritual sense of the surrounding environment and the importance of safeguarding those thoughts and gifts.

A bike is not just a bike but the personification of the owner and his love for the cycling and his appreciation of life.

The New Steed

2011-10-04T09:46:00.012+08:00

This is a very interesting year. A year that I disregard weight, modern technology but went straight back to an all time classic in my choice of bike. Call it back to basic, I started going on a hunt for a steel bike that I truly and surely going to keep it long term in my arsenal of bikes.

My mountain biking love affair started way back in 1992 when I was 16. I was introduced to mountain biking by my then teacher. To cut the story short, we do not have many high end aerospace technology then. Carbon Fiber was available but then it was still in its infancy on the bike development, then there is the cool Aluminium and of course you have Titanium which to a 16 year old boy, the price tag will be too much to bear.

Scion fresh from the package

I was introduced to Chromoly, the steel material that was more common then as it has a very hardy property and beside rust and a little weight issue, it is consider one of the toughest. In fact, I start and went through 2 Chromoly Steel bikes before I migrate to Aluminium. So impressionally speaking, I do have a love; hate relationship with Chromoly Steel. Love the rides and dampening, hates the weight and the maintenance.

Scion, all setup and ready to roll!

I started the year with a good old DN6 steel frame called the On-One Inbred. I was enjoying it for about 3 months. Happily riding it and for a decent time and then, suddenly remembering that this british design bike is a little bit off on the weighing scale (a little of weight-weenie bug in me). So, I started on a quest to hunt for another piece because I know for sure that I will not be happy to keep the On-One Inbred as a potential Heirloom in my bike collection. So, I stumble upon Pipedream Cycles. I have known this brand for five years and was hoping to see some shop in Singapore would bring them in. Finally, a company decided to bring them in and I found them in a local bike shop.

Scion 2nd outing in Mandai

I picked the lighter and more slimmed down version of the Pipedream Steel range. It is called the Scion for the weight and it runs on the Reynold 853 steel which is extremely strong the weight is really good in terms of lightness. I am really satisfy with the whole hunt for the perfect love affair with a steel bike that I know I will hand it down as a heirloom, provided that it survive the punishment of rides that I will be putting it through.

One Year On...

2011-03-24T08:17:00.002+08:00

It is exactly one year and today marks the one year anniversary of the departure of a close friend who had taught me everything I need to know about cycling in my earlier years of being a cycling virgo.

For one year, I have been just going about to get myself busy and rarely, put in a lot of time on the pedals. Building bike, doing cycling related events and doing personal stuffs...that is pretty much. I have not been thinking about the fact that I have lost my closest buddy on March 24, 2010 to an accident that took his life.

This morning, is a weird one as the biological and emotional clock rang once again that reminded me that today is the one year anniversary. I thought that I had forgotten all about it but the gut feeling and the subconscious memory knocks and tugs on my heart.

Today is the day, that I would celebrate the life of my dearest friend, my mentor and my closest brother...Ben, you will always be remembered as a close buddy, a dearest mentor and a big brother!

Ben Mok Pedal On!

A Different Form of Training

2009-08-24T09:09:00.003+08:00

My recent change in my relationship status brought me to another level in my training for sports and races. The biggest thing in life right now is no longer about proving and racing to win (though it still irritates me if I don't do well in my own way of benchmarking).

But I have come to realise the importance of my presence to my love one who is also doing the sports. The companionship and the motivation to spur one another to do well and the hugs that comes at the finishing line and the pat on the shoulder is far greater than anything price money.

Some may say I gone softer or even cry foul that I have become a softie. To me, I have learn an important value in life from this experience, no greater gain that I have achieved can super cede the important value of Love, Family, Companionship. You can gain the whole world but if there is the lack of Love and Warm, you are just a empty, lonely fool who has just been chasing after an illusive dream.

Why You Need a Carbon Bike

2009-08-24T09:06:00.001+08:00

For the Dudes out there who think Carbon is Cool and the New Black....this is your happy moment!

Presenting Gray Super 7 Carbon Road Bike

2009-08-08T19:22:00.002+08:00

I finally got my hands on this unit and in fact, it is so aggressive and sweet to ride this baby. I really can't wait for it to arrive. The best thing, the frame is only S$1999. Anyway, for those who are keen to get a decently priced road bike and nice carbon wheels. Do drop me a line at my email at domloh@gmail.com or 90926716.

Getting Married....Happy Ever After?

2009-08-01T20:09:00.000+08:00

For the last 2 months, I have been invited to 2 weddings and I must say that it is a wonderful experience to share the joy with your friends who are getting married. For me, as I look at some of my friends who are one by one walking down the aisle and then started building a family, one kid, 2 kids and then the third one comes along. I sometime wonder if I will be able to walk down that path with the beaming smile on my face like them.

Yes, I am in a relationship now and yes, I know I want to walk down the aisle with my partner and yes, I want a family. But I sometime wonder, what does a family entails. I have been a son but I have never been a father and to be honest, being a son I have disappointed my father and mother umpteen times that I really don't know when I will ever stop disappointing them. I think perhaps I might have think too far ahead but I am a person who likes to dream and think and then plan. A mentor used to tell me that I have to speak things into existence and that is a firm belief that I can do it and accomplished it.

And now is the role as a husband, can I be a good husband and what benchmark do I take upon? What should a husband do? Where do I stand? But that I guess is what makes all these marriage thing so sweet and happy, is to work hard toward being a good husband through listening, patience, learning, changing, prioritizing, and respect. I know I love the person that I am with now and I know that I want to spend all my time with my partner if I have a choice, I know that right now my life is encircled around her....but that is just the first step....I need to chip off those rough edges that I have build up along the year.

But, my sharing here is something that is from my heart and my situation and perhaps everyone has a different perspective, but life is such, it is really an amazing thing and in fact I must be honest that I am looking forward to that....Marriage....hmmm.....

Post Tour Du France

2009-08-01T19:59:00.001+08:00

Yes yes,

Some of you might think that I might be a little bit slow to update anything to do with Le Tour but anyway, I think it is a good time to have a consolidated summary on the win. Alberto Contador did it again after missing last year's Tour due to Team Astana not allowed to race on the Tour De France. He show the world again that he is the man to beat and his ability to climb and time trial just blown anyone away. Fabian Cancellera (Olympic Time Trial Champion - Beijing 2008) show the world in stage one just how good the Swiss Maestro will go.

Of course there is the Schleck Brothers, Andy Schleck and Frank Schleck that keep everyone on their toes, especially Andy who went on to be the 1st Runner-up for the Tour and best Youth and wear the White Jersey. Of Course, the is Cadel Evans, Denis Menchov, Tom Boonen, Levi Leimpeimer, George Hincapie and Lance Armstrong. Lance may be third this year but with a broken Collarbone and fresh out of Giro d'Italia, I think next year will be Lance's Year. But of course, Contador is 10 years younger and we have not seen the best of him....and the Green Jersey, My heart goes out to Mark Cavenish....he could have got the Point Classification in the bags.

Stage 1

Stage 4

Stage 7

Stage 18

Stage 20

Stage 21

Suunto Partners ITU

2009-05-29T18:53:00.002+08:00

Check out the ITU website:

http://www.triathlon.org/worldchampionshipseries/

Suunto's New Toys - Part 2

2009-05-29T18:49:00.001+08:00

Suunto Foot POD now available in bright colours
Measure your distance and speed in an easy, accurate and stylish manner using the Suunto Foot POD running sensor.

Suunto is bringing to market a special batch of easy-to-use and colourful Suunto Foot POD units, matching the look of the Suunto heart rate monitors. The accurate speed and distance meter brings new life to your training.

Training kilometres and average speed are important information when training for spring and summer running events. Even if you are exercising just for fun, it is nice to keep track of the distance ran. When using the Suunto Foot POD, your heart rate monitor gives you even more information on your progress in fitness training.

The Foot POD is easy to use. You simply stick it in the holder strapped to your shoelaces. The Foot POD automatically starts to measure distance and speed when you take your first step. The device turns itself off automatically when it is not used for half an hour. The lightweight Foot POD only weighs 27 grams.

The Suunto Foot POD measures speed and distance with extreme accuracy, even if stride length varies. The device monitors the movement of the foot when running, walking, or doing uphill training with sticks – indoors or outdoors. Unlike traditional pedometers or the GPS POD, the Foot POD models the movement and counts each step separately. The accurate Foot POD is best suited for running or walking. GPS POD, on the other hand, is better for more versatile outdoor activities, such as roller blading.

”According to our user studies, women doing outdoor exercise are interested in measuring speed and distance, in addition to calorie consumption,” explains Tia Hänninen, Product Manager at Suunto. ”The Suunto Foot POD is easy to use and provides additional motivation for runners of all levels.”

The wireless Foot POD has an easily replaceable, long-lasting and ecological lithium battery. The device also indicates when it is time to replace the battery.
Thanks to the encoded transmission technology, the Foot POD gives you speed and distance data reliably, even at large-scale sporting events where many other heart rate monitors are being used nearby.

The Suunto Foot POD is compatible with the Suunto t3c, t4c, and t6c heart rate monitors.
The heart rate monitor sales packages include also the Suunto Comfort Belt, the Suunto Foot POD is sold in a separate sales package.

Suunto's New Toys - Part 1

2009-05-29T18:41:00.005+08:00

The Suunto Triathlon Collection
Train Smarter with Suunto t6c Red Arrow and t3c Black Arrow heart rate monitors

To mark its co-operation with the ITU (International Triathlon Union), Suunto, a leading designer and manufacturer of sports precision instruments, introduces its Triathlon collection – the Suunto t6c Red Arrow and the Suunto t3c Black Arrow heart rate monitors. The devices feature the tried and tested features of their forerunners Suunto t3c and Suunto t6c.
Frodeno

The Suunto t6c Red Arrow is like a portable sports laboratory on the wrist for athletes with a professional attitude. It measures the time interval between heartbeats and its variations to produce seven different body parameters. By utilizing the accompanying software, an athlete can interpret this data to achieve a deeper analysis of their training sessions.

The Suunto t6c Red Arrow shows many of these measurement results directly on the display. For example Training Effect (the aerobic benefit of a training session on a one-to-five scale), EPOC (Excess Post-exercise oxygen consumption), and calories burned can all be seen at a glance. The user can also freely customize the display and choose which data they need most for their current training program. The sport-specific attachment PODs – Foot POD, Bike POD, GPS POD, Cadence POD and PC POD – also enable speed and distance data to be shown on the display of this wrist top computer.

For active sports participants and sports enthusiasts, the Suunto t3c Black Arrow
offers the opportunity to train more effectively and get real results.
In addition to the heart rate monitor, the device features a real-time Training Effect
display. The Training Effect (TE) value notes not only heart rate but also heart rate variation and so provides reliable information on workout intensity and its effect on fitness. Monitoring the TE value also reduces the risk of overtraining.

“I love the versatility of Suunto heart rate monitors”, says Jan Frodeno, German Triathlon Winner of 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. “I can use one monitor for all the sports I practice and combine it with any Suunto speed and distance POD. The new Comfort Belt molds to my chest and goes unnoticed on my long runs. With my Suunto heart rate monitor, I can quickly and easily get the vital information I need to help me train smarter direct from my wrist – and get the most out of every session.” Jan Frodeno Olympic Gold Medalist ‘08, Triathlon.

Suunto serves as the official timing and data partner for the Dextro Energy Triathlon – ITU World Championships Series. The thrilling new series consists of eight triathlon events held in some of the world’s most well known cities, beginning on May 2nd in South Korea and ending with the Grand Final in Australia on September 13th, and reaching 100s of millions TV-viewers. The aim is to offer something for every type of triathlete – from the elite to the novice.

Suunto t6c Red Arrow and t3c Black Arrow will be available in late summer.

Introducing ZeroD

2009-04-29T22:44:00.006+08:00

Simon Whitfield O Suit for Dextro ITU World Championship

Check this out! For those who is still seeking the Ironman Dreams and those who still living in the passe world of ORCA, 2XU, Zoots.....eh... you are behind time. The latest baby and the lastest kids on the block of triathlon apparel is none other than ZeroD....Pronounce as Zero _ D, this French Based make kick as triathlon wear for Simon Whitfield, Jan Frodeno, Laurent Jalabert and other big names in the triathlon world.

Can't wait to lay my hands on that new sets of ZeroD tri gear.

Here are just some of the cool guys in them.

Olympic Champion Jan Frodeno

Olivier Marceau - Xterra

Cycling Legend, Now Ironman Triathlete - Laurent "Jaja" Jalabert

Stepping Up! More Racing!

2009-03-17T14:08:00.004+08:00

After much serious thoughts especially complete the Mountain Bike Carnival with decent results, I beginning to wonder if I should really step up this year with some serious racing.

Guess, the desire to race well if still in me and so I am going to give my racing a little stepping up! So this will be my new race calendar for now:

1) Bintan Triathlon (22 May)

2) Xterra Kuantan (7 June)

3) Desaru Long Distance Triathlon (1 August)

4) The North Face 100 (Not Confirmed)

Well, let see what will come out of it for this year. The hunger to race is no longer there really but the desire to keep moving with decent results will keep me going I guess.

Dirty Weekend Result!

2009-03-10T20:36:00.009+08:00

Well, the results is out and yes, I DNFed the 100km mountain bike marathon. But that was just one part of it. I was pretty please with my results for the Sprint Duathlon. At least I came in 8th.

Went down to pick up the finisher medal today and was quite happy to see it and of course took some photo of the finisher medal.

Singapore MTB Carnival 2009-02-28 00:00:00
278 Dominic Loh
Team Buff Headwear
Dirty Duathlon Sprint Mens SOLO
Run1 (2.5km)	12:46 min
Bike (5km)	23:46 min
Run2 (2.5km)	15:35 min

I must say that I have improve on my run knowing that the run course is not easy. Thanks to Eugene Lee from Synergy Multisport, I don't think I can run this well if not for him. I have been struggling with my run for the last 3 years as I am either down with an injury or just too slow. I am slowly gaining grounds, all thanks to Eugene and he had taught me how to really run with pleasure and run with the proper technique. Thanks Eugene and Synergy Multisport, you guys are the best in this trade!

A pictures of the weekly drills for the right running technique

Personality Test

2009-03-07T12:16:00.003+08:00

I just did a personality test and to be honest, I have not done it for a really long time and guess what, I took the plunge and give it a try since I am doing some work on the side and to my amazement, it speaks of me quite accurately...hmmmm.....perhaps I have been consistent I guess.

Your view on yourself:

You are down-to-earth and people like you because you are so straightforward. You are an efficient problem solver because you will listen to both sides of an argument before making a decision that usually appeals to both parties.

The type of girlfriend/boyfriend you are looking for:

You are not looking merely for a girl/boyfriend - you are looking for your life partner. Perhaps you should be more open-minded about who you spend time with. The person you are looking for might hide their charm under their exterior.

Your readiness to commit to a relationship:

You prefer to get to know a person very well before deciding whether you will commit to the relationship.

The seriousness of your love:

You are very serious about relationships and aren't interested in wasting time with people you don't really like. If you meet the right person, you will fall deeply and beautifully in love.

Your views on education

You may not like to study but you have many practical ideas. You listen to your own instincts and tend to follow your heart, so you will probably end up with an unusual job.

The right job for you:

You have plenty of dream jobs but have little chance of doing any of them if you don't focus on something in particular. You need to choose something and go for it to be happy and achieve success.

How do you view success:

You are confident that you will be successful in your chosen career and nothing will stop you from trying.

What are you most afraid of:

You are afraid of things that you cannot control. Sometimes you show your anger to cover up how you feel.

Who is your true self:

You are mature, reasonable, honest and give good advice. People ask for your comments on all sorts of different issues. Sometimes you might find yourself in a dilemma when trapped with a problem, which your heart rather than your head needs to solve.

EL Toro Restoro Bar

2009-03-04T13:24:00.000+08:00

For some of you who remembers Margarita Mexican Restaurant, Cha Cha Cha Restaurant at Holland Village and something more old schools like Chicos and Charlie in the 90s'. You would probably head down to those place for a family style Texan Mexican feast. Burritos, Chili Con Carne, Chimichaga, and Tacos.

Beautiful and well decorated interior of El Toro Restoro Bar

Mixed Drinks like Mojitos and Sangria are the signature drinks and of course the wide selection of Chilean and Spanish wines are also available

This is my favourite spot in the restuarant....the veranda that overlooks orchard road

Well, guess what? I have been visiting this new haunt along Penang Road, in my opinion, serves the best and most authentic mexican food. El Toro Restoro Bar located at Winsland Conservation House is a restaurant that not only serves mexican cuisine, but true latin cuisine. Meaning, you will have a taste of mix of Spanish, Cuban, Mexican, Ecuador and the rest of the latin region. So of the dishes that you must not miss are:

1) Chili Con Queso (Spicy Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips)
2) Arroz Verde
3) Spanish Paella
4) Fajitas
5) Churros with Chocolate Dip
6) The Chili Chocolate Cake

I have the privilege to try my hands on making the ever enticing Chili Con Queso right in the El Toro kitchen.

Fresh Tortilla Chips (Freshly Fried)

Making of the Queso (The Cheese Deep with Jalepenos, Coriander, Tomotoes and Cream)

Finished Product for a Valentine's Day Picnic...PS. it goes very well with a bottle of Shiraz.

More Pics for Dirty Weekend

2009-03-03T14:42:00.007+08:00

Alvin Lim from Adventure In Motion and Ryan Blair from The North Face Greater China Team

I have the privilege to catch a gleams of the Father of Mountain Biking, Mr. Gary Fisher and of course, the bonus is I get to take a photo with him before the start of the 100km mtb race.

Racing in the pack of riders

And here are some of the other pictures that has not shared.

Sharing a moment with Gary Fisher, Dinah and Eugene from Synergy Performance

One Dirty Weekend!!!

2009-03-01T19:48:00.013+08:00

This weekend has been a much anticipated weekend for me. I must confess that I am very much a dirty person who prefers trail running over road running, mountain biking over road cycling. And this weekend, I dived in to one heck of a dirty weekend! The Eneloop Mountain Bike Carnival bring life to the usually pristine and tamed Tampines mountain bike trail.

The league of few great gentlemen who make the race happen (HM Lim and Max)

Instead of doing one event, I decided to do 2. One is a Sprint Dirty Duathlon comprises of a 2.5km trail run, a 5km Mountain Bike riding, and finished with a 2.5km trail run. The next is the ever illusive 100km MTB Marathon.

I was pretty happy with my morning duathlon attempt. I think I came in top 10 placing or something. The result that I have not achieved for the last few years, due to weight issues and injuries. Happy and contend! Thanks to Eugene Lee from Synergy Multi-sport who send me on a series of running drills and his coaching has definite brought my run back in order.

Picture Taken by Kenneth and Laura (Thanks Guys for the great photo)

Legends in Action, Gary Fisher and Tinker Juarez (Taken by Laura Liong)

Then comes the 100km MTB Marathon, I managed only 2 laps sadly compare to last year due to a very serious cramp and lungs were actually hurting badly. Probably I went out too hard for the first 2 laps as I was only interested to tick some of the riders off the list. But well, with ambition, comes the price of losing the coverted award. Well, have to wait till next year to attempt it. Thanks to Edwin Cheong from Tomac Coalition who supported me with Lights, Food and tonnes of mechanic support. Not forgeting Bryan who sends me home on his trustworthy SUV. And to my Trustworthy Tomac Automatic.

Tinker Juarez and the Father of Mountain Biking, Mr. Gary Fisher at the closing ceremony

B.U.S.Y.

2009-02-19T22:31:00.000+08:00

Quotes

2009-02-17T23:22:00.005+08:00

After all these years of being in middle management and junior management, these are some of the quotes I personally love:

"It is an immutable law in business that words are words, explanations are explanations, promises are promises - but only performance is reality."

Harold Geneen

"Management must have a purpose, a dedication, and that dedication must have an emotional commitment. It must be built in as a vital part of the personality of anyone who truly is a manager."

Harold Geneen

Decision!

2009-02-10T22:24:00.003+08:00

I have long been toying the thoughts for the last few months about Ironman Langkawi. I have not be able to hit the desire mileage in my training and to be honest, somehow I find training becoming a toll.

What makes things worse is that my training buddy is not going for the race or should I say pulled out of the race due to an injury. So, I was left to look for accommodation and flight to the place. Now the decision is very clear to me. I have an unfinished business in Singapore and that is the Mountain Bike 100km Marathon on the same day of Ironman.

I decided to switch my attention and focus to my trusted Tomac Automatic Mountain Bike. I need to get my Mountain Biking all up....so wish me luck as I tackle the race.

The Crime of Mixing Business Opportunity and Private Social Moments

2009-02-04T02:18:00.005+08:00

I have been really into my work lately and to be honest, I will find every opportunity to promote my products and services. Guess what, I think I have overdid it again by trying too hard to value-add and sell my products and services. I have brought it to the dinner table and everyone I see seems yo be a potential customer. Of course, what really happens is that I upsets someone that I really love. All she really want is to have a nice dinner with her friend and me and talk nothing about sales of product and services.

What makes things worst is I have the audacity to tell her off just because she commented on my a product that I pass to her. Can you believe that??? I must have lost my mind to do that.

Lesson Learn:
- Don't Bring work to the dinner table
- Don't treat everyone as your customer
- Be normal and just enjoy the company
- Leave your work in the Office!!
- Stop being the EGOistic Salesman!!!
- Be sensitive to other especially when they are someone you love.

L.O.V.E.

2009-01-24T13:21:00.004+08:00

L is for the way you look at me....

O is for the only one I see....

V is very very extraodinary...

E is even more than anyone that you adore...

Have been really missing song for a while...Sinatra, Nat King Cole...Joss Stone....

Chinese New Year Goodies Vs Ironman Traininig

2009-01-23T14:07:00.003+08:00

This is the time of the year when everyone will be guilt-free and indulge in the Chinese New Year Goodies, Bak Kwa, Pineapple Tarts, Almond Cookies, and all the scrumptious food at the reunion dinner table. Its a tough position for me this year as I am exactly one month away for the Ironman Langkawi. I will have to be really careful with my junk food intake for once.

The training must go on. No matter what. I will still have to train to bring my power to weight ratio to the highest possible. So here is my plan:

Chinese New Year Eve (Sunday): 60km bike ride in the morning before reunion dinner (Steam Boat) at night

Chinese New Year Day 1 (Monday): Slot in a 30mins run in the morning and a 1hour spin on the bike in the evening

Chinese New Year Day 2 (Tuesday): Rest (Control the junk food day)

Chinese New Year Day 3 (Wednesday): 160km Bike Ride

Chinese New Year Day 4 (Thursday): Bike/Run Brick with Girlfriend

Chinese New Year Day 5 (Friday): Bike to work and back (est. 100km)

Chinese New Year Day 6 (Saturday): Swim/Run Brick

Chinese New Year Day 7 (Sunday): Team Bandung Ride

Chinese New Year Day 8 (Monday): Resume Synergy Swim Class

Chinese New Year Day 9 (Tuesday): Rest

Chinese New Year Day 10 (Wednesday): Swim Class With Synergy

Chinese New Year Day 11 (Thursday): Rest

Chinese New Year Day 12 (Friday): Rest

Chinese New Year Day 13 (Saturday): 25km run

Chinese New Year Day 14 (Sunday): Team Bandung Ride

Chinese New Year Day 15 (Monday): Aquathlon Training with Synergy

Training Updates

2009-01-19T16:29:00.003+08:00

Well,

Last week supposed to be a hard hard week to build up for the Chinese New Year week of torture where everything will be super duper long (like 220km bike ride....4 hrs run and the tonnes of brick training).

Of course, with all the ambitious plans, the body will response differently. While typing this I am nursing a sore left shoulder and neck. But I am still optimistic about the weeks ahead...anyway, I did not went out as hard as the previous week but I did complete majority of my training. Pool work is ok....managed t complete most of it. The only thing is I missed my thursday 10km run, so I have to make it up on Saturday with a run at MacRichite Trail which I has looking forward too as I am more of a offroader (Mountain Biking and Trail Running) and then finished off with a Sunday Ride with Team Bandung....

And of course, I am very happy about the fact that my weight is coming down and I need to get my power to weight ratio as high as possible. Well, one new week and more training ahead.

I will be Here.

2009-01-19T10:15:00.002+08:00

This has been my favourite song from Steve Curtis Chapman.....it really a challenge to every man who is preparing for the wedding...why?

Are you ready to take care of her truly, faithfully and without any condition? Will you be there for the rest of her life? In Weakness, in Poverty, in Sickness?????

Must I like Everyone????

2009-01-16T01:19:00.003+08:00

Must I like people.....

.....Who steal quality time away from me?

.......Who comes out of idea that to me is not absolutely productive?

..........Who spend a great deal of time.....organizing social gathering than training for a race?

............Who are taking away quality time from my family and love one?

-------------------------------------------I seriously Dunno that Answer.....But I am not absolutely please with the situation right now---------------------------------------------------------------------

Moving On....

2009-01-13T13:51:00.005+08:00

More often than not there are times when you struggle to carry yourself through life circumstances emotionally, its painful at time to even move a step a day in your life. You reach a point in life asking God, asking yourself why you have to go through that.

Very simple, questions....
...1) Am I holding on to something or some situation so tightly that its choking others or myself?

.....2) What do I benefit by holding on to it?

........3) Is it better to let go of it so that it won't choke others and gets in your way?

..........4) Is it better to live with or without the circumstances?

.............5) Is God in control of the situation? Or are you the one trying to control the situation?

.................6) Are you hurting others by doing what you are doing?

.....................7) Is it time for you to let go and Let God that control and start moving?

...........Moving on in life is a part and parcel of a life journey and more often than not many of us are so bored down with life situation like relationship, work, career, family, studies.....finding your real calling in life and real destiny in life is pretty much the essence of life. Is God in the picture of all these is the next question....no one knows the real calling of their life until they actively search and that may require some letting go and moving on.....same goes to the search for life's destiny....its about letting go of some important things and moving on to a new pasture in life. May not be an easy one but it would always turn out better....especially when it has other people involve like relationships.

.....over the last few weeks, I have been going through some struggles too, things that I have held fast to, but as days goes by, I realised that I need to let go of it or else I will never find peace. So, I am pretty certain that I want to move on and I want peace in the Lord. Moving on....Moving on...in life.

Week One heading to Week Two

2009-01-12T22:17:00.002+08:00

After a Lovely dinner with Love One on friday at El Toro Paradiso and a nice chilling walk by the beach, its time to kick in the hard brick weekend. Saturday was a swim at Katong Swimming Complex with the Team Bandung guys...not bad, just that I am the slowest one in terms of freestyle, told myself to hang in there and then after 3 x 500m swim and a 3 x 200m swim, I zipped off towards Suntec and Singapore Flyer for a 10km run. Managed to clock in a really hard and fast 50plus minutes 10km. Felt that I will probably subject myself to blood blister on my feet and true enough it happens...arghhh...not again...silly me trying to run without sock.

Anyway, I was supposed to do a 120km bike on sunday and guess what, I body decided to boycott with a indigestion by sending me a heartburn....darned! oh well, so today is monday, decided to try another brick with a bike and then attending the swim class with Synergy and then bike home....totally satisfying.

Phat Tyre Weekend

2009-01-09T13:35:00.003+08:00

While I will be away in Langkawi attempting my first Ironman....

....Singapore has another celebration and party....

Training...Updates....

2009-01-08T23:57:00.000+08:00

Its been 3 days since I embarked on the training to prepare for the Ironman Training. Well, its not absolutely a smooth training phase because beside following the training plan, I have to realize the physiological part of me. I am not made of Iron though I am trying my hands on the Ironman for the first time.

Day 1: 2km pool swim (complete 50min - feeling fresh after the swim)

Day 2: Synergy Training (completed 1 x 500m warm up swim, 1 x 500m base swim)
(Uncompleted 1 x 400m - 6 beat kick swimming, only finished 3oom)

Day 3: 10km run (complete in 1hr Flat)

Day 4: Rest (dinner with love one)

Relationship???

2009-01-08T14:37:00.000+08:00

Has anyone ever wonder what it takes for a relationship to actually work???

1) Time

2) Commitment

3) Emotions

4) Unconditional Love

Anyway, some would say why I asked about this question and comes out of the attributes and definition is heavily due to the fact my recent involvement in a relationship seems to draw me to all these words and issues. Time, how is time spent together is right or how much time spent is enough? It is selfish of us to expect our other half to devote more time with us? What is the real essence behind this? What is considered quality time??? How about our time with our friends??? Do we have to put aside time with friends to make time for our love ones???

With that comes the part about commitment, how much of effort, time and devotion are we willing to commit ourselves into? There is always a question about this "what if he/she is not committed and I am committing so much???" Should I measure it with that or should I question commitment using that Benchmark??? Does time, effort and devotion equates to Commitment???

Emotions has a heavy part in relationships too. We are all human being and psychologically and physiologically, our emotions plays a part. Its Emotional and Spiritual. I throw our tantrums to show our unhappiness, that's emotion. We show our concerns to our Love One and that's emotion. We cry with our Love One and for our Love One and that's emotion.

Unconditional Love, the big word in this whole thing. Unconditional Love at any point in time is not selfish, its not impatience, its not attention seeking. It's Absolutely Unconditional. So the rest of the earlier expectation does not fit in here. If you are willing to walk down this path to be loving someone Unconditionally, then don't set expectation, because it will hurt even more and the sense of betrayal will get the better of you. So what is my point??? If you want to get into a relationship, be prepare to self out all your efforts of commitment, time, emotions and most important of all, unconditional love for that person. Don't expect anything in return but just remember that God is in control of everything.

You know you're a triathlete when....

2009-01-07T23:23:00.000+08:00

Got this from a friend in Facebook...Thanks MK....really reflect us....

You know you're a triathlete when....

When asked, how old you are you answer 20-24.

When asked how long your training was today you answer: three to four hours.

Your traning is more limited by available time then how far you can run.

Your first thought when you wake up is how high your rest HR is.

You go for a run eventhough there's a thunderstorm and you enjoy being wet and dirty.

You think it's natural to do your 'business' behind a tree in the woods.

You take part in the corporate challenge to improve your base speed.

You go for a 5 km cooldown run after a 5 km race just so that you can call it a training session.

You consider work, regeneration time between training sessions.

That something hard between your legs is usually a pull buoy

You have a water bottle when you drive your car.

You've forgotten how to drink out of cups.

You spend your 2 weeks annual vacation at a training camp.

You know inside out how much Protein each energy bar has.

You seriously consider applying for citizenship in Tonga, Jemen or Tschad so that you can participate in the olympic games.

When people praising you for being able to run 15 miles you're feeling insulted.

In the summer your legs are smoother than your girlfriend's.

In the winter your legs are still smoother than your girlfriend’s

You need a picture for a job application and you only have race pictures.

You use running T-shirts to clean your bike.

That charming "cologne" you wear to work is chlorine

You take more showers in a locker room than at home

6:30 am is sleeping in

the dog runs and hides when you get the leash!

You think there are only two seasons during the year, racing and off.

You shave way too many body parts for a guy.

You can't change the oil in your car but you can completly rebuild your bike in 45 mins

You spend more £ on training and racing clothes then work clothes

You spend 7 days going to 8 stores in 4 towns before buying a pair of running shoes but you take 1 afternoon to go to 1 car dealership and walk out with a new car 4 hours later.

when you see some lady watering her flowers and ask her if you can borrow the hose for a minute so you can fill up your water bottles.

You clean your bike more often than your car

You've been stung be a wasp or bee in your mouth but carried on running or cycling because "your split times won’t go down by themselves"

Your car smells like a locker room.

You have everything needed in your car to be Swimming, Biking or Running with 5 minutes notice.

When asked to mow the lawn in 90 degree heat, you say that its too hot to do that (and you mean it) and then an hour later you go on a century ride because its so nice out.

You tell your co-workers that you are going to "do a long brick" on saturday and just expect that they know what you are talking about.

When a co-worker asks if you are racing this weekend, you say "yeah, but I'm just running a 10k, so that is not REALLY a race".

You consider you bike saddle your "couch"

You consider Clif Bars as one of the four food groups

you are sick to your stomach at 2:00 in the morning and check the back of the Pepto Bismol bottle for caloric content and grams of carbohydrates, fat and protein.

you have plenty of water bottles, safety pins, and t-shirts.

You like going swimming the day after a race with the permenant penned number still visible on your legs and arms because the feel like a medal.

you have trouble keeping lunch under 2000 calories.

you usually wake up at 4:00 in the morning but do not get to work until way after 9:00.

you have a £4000 bike strapped on top of your £2000 car.

you have no trouble pushing a day's caloric intake to over 8000 calories.

you're always wet! Either sweat water, pool water, sea water, shower water, bath water or its p*****g down outside!

Instead of Marie Clare, People and Cosmo, you have piles of Runner's World in your bathroom.

your car has at least one Power Bar wrapper and two sets of work out clothes!
your kids idea of playing is a bike and run race followed by power bars, water bottles and awards ceremony.

your laundry continually smells like someone locked the cat in overnight...

you leave your apartment or house in the morning with your swim bag on one arm, bike on one shoulder, a change of clothes in another bag, and your running stuff in another bag in case you can get away at lunch for a workout.

you wave at other cyclists, because all triathletes are friendly and if they are not, they are probably purist cyclists trying to get into triathlons and they do not know that triathletes are friendly.

You have not one, not two, but three permanent chain ring scars on your right calf.

You are walking along a street and you signal left.

you can't decide what tee shirt to wear to your next race.

you have far more pairs of shoes in your closet than your non-tri wife does in hers

the one "suit" you own has orca written on the chest.

You wear your heart rate monitor during sex....

...and you keep within the right HR zone

you hear T2 and don't think of the film....

when "foreplay" is 15 minutes on a turbo trainer

your living room has the "swim pile" and the "bike pile" and the "run pile" and the "weight room pile" and you pick and choose kind of like a cafeteria on your way out the door.

your kitchen cupboards are organized into "protein", "carbs" and "etc"

you bring bottled water to a party so that you're properly hydrated for the next morning's long run, everyone else at the party also brought their own bottled water because you don't have a social life outside of triathlon. Oh yeah, and they all showed up by 7pm and left by 10pm.

your company announces mandatory unpaid shutdown days - every other Friday thoughout the summer - in order to cut costs and stay in business, and your response is "Great - now I can do two long workouts on the weekends and still have an easy day."

......but you dont!

your 8 year old comes home with the school record for the mile and says, he took it out in a nice pace he could hold.....everyone else died.

you fill your kids' water bottles with Cytomax instead of blue gatorade.

you can ask your mom and your sister and all other girlfriends for shaving advice.

no wait, they ask you for advice!

you say that you went to a race last weekend...and somebody responds "running or biking" and you are again forced to explain....

you wear your bathing suit under your work clothes to make a fast transition from work to swim on your lunch hour.

you show up at the neighborhood pool on your bike in a speedo and embarrass your teenage daughters.

Your idea of fast food is a power bar and SIS Go

somebody hands you a cup of water and you have to restrain yourself from pouring it on your head.

You catch yourself about to blow a snot rocket while walking around the office.

you forget that talking about daily LSD [Long Slow Distance] and speed weirds some people out.

you have no FRIGGIN idea what to do with yourself on your off day.

You feel like you took the day off because all you did was swim 3000 meters then go for a short run.

At any given moment you know exactly where your heart rate monitor and your swim googles are, but cannot remember where you left you car keys. (turns out 90% of the time they are in your bike bag)

Ice baths!

When non-racer friends tell you they ran/rode you automatically calculate their pace to see if you're still in better shape.

Cars pass you on the road when you're driving and you either drop back to get out of draft zone or speed up to attack!

You have no trouble converting mph into kmph

You've stopped buying high-heels because your feet are too swollen from long runs to fit in them anyways.

While your less athletically-inclined girlfriends are gorging themselves on plates of lettuce, you're occupying yourself with a plate of pasta and chicken (white meat, of course.)

Having a period has become less of a nuisance since menstrual cramps don't feel that bad when you're hunched over a bike.

You've stopped wearing dangly earrings because they just get in the way when you're ripping off your clothes to squeeze "just one more" workout into your already cramped schedule.

Your girlfriends are insanely jealous of your tan legs. Until they realize that the tan stops at your bike shorts.

You've given up trying to go on training runs/rides with your boyfriends because they don't take it too well when you kick their butt.

Your best girl friend gets a new bike and tells you that it's a really pretty shade of blue. You get a new bike and can tell her the chain ring ratios.

When checking out guys on the street/at the mall your friends notice eyes, hair, build. You notice if they have shaved legs, if they have runners/bikers legs, and if they're wearing a race t-shirt.

Road To IM Langkawi

2009-01-07T17:11:00.000+08:00

For the last 2 months or so I was really in my Slacker, Lazy-bone mode though I told everyone that I need to train hard for the Ironman Langkawi. What a joke it was and it takes someone who is very very important to me to tell me of my attitude towards training. I used to be so focus in my training, I remembered the time when I quit my job, unplucked myself from my comfort zone and head out to Sabah for one solid month, just to train hard for the Ironman 70.3. And now, I am easing myself into my unforgiving Slacker attitude hoping that by doing less I will still get good results. It is definitely not the time to do that mate!

Of course, something needs to be down to address this situation, so I was up the other and came out with my Training Plan, give it to my dearest and beloved. Did my first regime and guess what I completed my regime without a problem and here I am now on my computer in a coffee place in Anchorpoint writing this and preparing to go for the second day of my training. Woohoo!!! I am beginning to get the drive, the hunger, the momentum.

I am pretty much re-aligning to Peter Reid training philosophy again. You need to be hungry and motivated to do the Ironman and I am just doing that.

Stepping Up! Training

2009-01-06T03:50:00.000+08:00

Training for 2008 is over and of course with the coming races in 2009, I realised that its time to step up the training plan.

So this is how it will look like in January:

6th Jan (Tuesday – 7pm to 9pm) - Light swim (mileage 2km)

7th Jan (Wednesday – 7pm to 9.30pm) - Pool Session with Synergy

8th Jan (Thursday – 7pm to 8.30pm) - 1hr Run

9th Jan (Friday) - Rest

10th Jan (Saturday – 9am to 2pm) - Bike and Run Brick

11th Jan (Sunday – 4am to 12nn) - Bandung Ride

12th Jan (Monday – 7pm to 9.30pm) - Pool Session with Synergy

13th Jan (Tuesday) - Rest

14th Jan (Wednesday – 7pm to 9.30pm) - Pool Session with Synergy

15th Jan (Thursday – 7pm to 9pm) - Run

16th Jan (Friday) - Rest

17th Jan (Saturday – 9am to 2pm) - Swim and Bike Brick

18th Jan (Sunday – 4pm to 7pm) - Speedwork (if no Bandung ride)

19th Jan (Monday) - Rest

20th Jan (Tuesday – 7pm to 8.30pm) - Run

21st Jan (Wednesday – 7pm to 9.30pm) - swim with Synergy

22nd Jan (Thursday) - Rest

23rd Jan (Friday) - Run

24th Jan ( Saturday) - Bike and Run Brick (Short)

25th Jan (Sunday) - CNY Eve

Recollect 2008 - Some Thanksgiving!

2008-12-28T17:07:00.000+08:00

2008 is an interesting year for me....if I would put it, its eventful, painful, shift of paradigm, changes of priority in life and of course a year that I am most grateful and thankful for to God.

Career wise, its be Topsy Turfy and to be honest, I have myself to be blamed as I have been stiff-necked with my decisions and of course my aggressive Type-A personality got the better of me an with ego as the fire starter, I totally blew it. Thank God He slowed me down and help me to recollect, humble my pride, change my perspective of thinking while I took a time off in Sabah, East Malaysia at my aunt's place.

What was interesting was that I was there when the US Economy hits the credit crunch and best of all I witness the fall of Insurance Giant, AIA. That all happen when I was in the midst of securing an overseas position based in China. But it did not worked out and so I have to look for alternative and I was not very happy about the whole situation because I was tired of working in Singapore and working for the same type of people.

Anyway, the very day before I flew back to Singapore, a close friend who drove me to the airport share with me about Contentment and it is really an eye opener for me as I was chasing after material gain relentlessly and that insecurity of not having that almost killed me spiritually. And before I flew back to Singapore, just at the airport, my aunt just shared with me that God has a reason and a plan to send me back to Singapore and I should just go back and be focus on settling back into Singapore. Which I did of course.

Race wise, let me see....hmmm....I had raced much lesser this year and in fact I only took part in one race and that is Sabah Adventure Challenge and worse still I DNF the race. But I was just happy to be able to have a feel of the race and understand the passion behind the race. Well, I know I will be back racing hard for the next few years probably in Triathlons and Ultramarathons. As such, this year is just a hiatus for me.

Thanksgiving

Philippians 4:6
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

For all these years, the verse above seems to be just a knowledge based idea to me on how I should conduct myself but now as I look through this year I realised that in everything I do I would not count my glory and will not fit my pride for all the good things that had happen. I would rather Thank Him who is my creator and not be ashamed to say that Glory to Him for He makes all good things and bad things happens.

This year especially meaningful as I have discovered the importants of contentment in my life. He has show me the true importance of a complete life and now to me, my love ones means more than anything in my life and He has blessed me with that and given me a relationship with someone that I have longed for all these years and because He told me to be patient all these while, I have just do so and with the right time He has revealed to me. My aunt was right that something big is coming and this year...it's here and I found someone whom I can love her with my heart and soul.

I have found the heart of thanksgiving and praise and even in bad times, I have learned to praise Him.

With that, I would say that this year would be a year that is summed up with this song:

It Is Well

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Refrain

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

Refrain

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

Refrain

For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.

Refrain

But, Lord, ‘tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh trump of the angel! Oh voice of the Lord!
Blessèd hope, blessèd rest of my soul!

Refrain

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

Refrain

Casting Crown - If we are the Body.

2008-12-25T00:05:00.000+08:00

It's crowded in worship today
As she slips in
Trying to fade into the faces
The girls' teasing laughter is carrying farther than they know
Farther than they know

CHORUS
But if we are the Body
Why aren't His arms reaching
Why aren't His hands healing
Why aren't His words teaching
And if we are the Body
Why aren't His feet going
Why is His love not showing them there is a way
There is a way

A traveler is far away from home
He sheds his coat
And quietly sinks into the back row
The weight of their judgmental glances tells him that his chances
Are better out on the road

CHORUS
But if we are the Body
Why aren't His arms reaching
Why aren't His hands healing
Why aren't His words teaching
And if we are the Body
Why aren't His feet going
Why is His love not showing them there is a way

Jesus paid much too high a price
For us to pick and choose who should come
And we are the Body of Christ

Chorus (2x)
If we are the body
Why aren't His arms reaching
Why aren't His hands healing
Why aren't His words teaching
And if we are the body
Why aren't His feet going
Why is His love not showing them there is a way

Jesus is the way

In the Bleak Midwinter

2008-12-24T23:25:00.000+08:00

Most of us know Christmas as a time of gifts and a time of partying....but how many of us actually know the true meaning CHRISTmas? This is the true meaning.

“So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”- Luke 2:16-20

CHRISTmas is a time of remembering the birth of Christ Jesus and He is called Emmanuel. It is a season of sharing the Good News! And this song is one song that I love to sing during Christmas.

In The Bleak Midwinter

1. In the bleak mid-winter
Frosty wind made moan,
Earth stood hard as iron,
Water like a stone;
Snow had fallen, snow on snow,
Snow on snow,
In the bleak mid-winter
Long ago.

2. Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him
Nor earth sustain;
Heaven and earth shall flee away
When He comes to reign:
In the bleak mid-winter
A stable-place sufficed
The Lord God Almighty,
Jesus Christ.

3. Enough for Him, whom cherubim
Worship night and day,
A breastful of milk
And a mangerful of hay;
Enough for Him, whom angels
Fall down before,
The ox and ass and camel
Which adore.

4. Angels and archangels
May have gathered there,
Cherubim and seraphim
Thronged the air,
But only His mother¹
In her maiden bliss,
Worshipped the Beloved
With a kiss.

5. What can I give Him,
Poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd
I would bring a lamb,
If I were a wise man
I would do my part,
Yet what I can I give Him,
Give my heart.

Marathon

2008-12-08T21:13:00.000+08:00

Well, it is really interesting to be a bystander and an onlooker at the Marathon. What is most interesting is to wake up like a typical marathon ride your mountain bike down to race site and zip around the race route just to support your love ones.

Well, I did and to be honest its really an experience. I am loving it but of course what would be most fulfilling is to start and finish the race together with your love one. Well, that will be my next years goal.

For now, I would just like to say this. Chris, I am so proud of you. We will run the race together next year.

Trail Work!

2008-12-03T19:40:00.000+08:00

Left over Signboard from
The North Face 100

It has been a while since someone actually talk about Mandai Track 15 and Zhenghua Park or should I say, I haven't hear anyone really talk about it. Well, I went for a Post - TNF100 ride in the area after about 1 month. Well, there are still some nice remembrance of the event. But most of all, I realised that I am the only solo guy that rode that area.

Post-Ride Condition

So it has been a really nice feeling of non-restricted pace. The ride took me to the end of the Mandai Track 15 trail and then decided to make a U-Turn and head back to Bukit Panjang Zhenghua Park. Its a really interesting experience as I have not been doing solo ride for a while but the feeling is a good one. Sort of a nostalgia.

Contentment

2008-11-27T21:20:00.000+08:00

How many times have we wondered what if I am a rich man/woman?

....What will I be?
.....What will I do differently?
......where will I go for my holidays?
.......What car will I be driving or be driven?
........How my day will be like?
.........The questions and list goes on and on......

But then, when I really sit down and think about it, I am just pretty happy that I do not have to worry about my finance, my livelihood, my bills, and most importantly the well-being of my family members. And that, sometimes equate to the Big Word called Contentment. I realized by not aggressively and relentlessly chasing a dream that is base on my own self-centeredness, and greed are just killing me emotionally, physically, mentally and most of all, spiritually.

Perhaps this is a way to escape responsibilities or its being mediocre but what all of us chase for in life is none other to be affirm, to be trusted, to be understood and most importantly to be loved. And by fulfilling that, that is what we all seek for....to be contended or CONTENTMENT.

Psicobloc???

2008-11-15T08:46:00.000+08:00

Psicobloc??? What is that??? Well, it deep water solo for some of those who had done rock climbing.

Its been a long time that I have shelved my climbing harness and shoes. But this is one video that brings back some inspiration to maybe head back to my climbing root. Red Bull, the Notorious Austrian Sports Beverage has put up really nice video. Enjoy!

Ultimate Mountain Bike Downhill Expedtion

2008-11-15T08:37:00.000+08:00

Everyone of us only know everest base camp is the mothership of all everest summit expedition. But do you know it is also the start of an ultimate mountain bike downhill adventure?

Descending from Everest Base Camp all the way to Kathmandu. Be prepare for the ultimate ride of your life.

Transalpine Run

2008-10-27T15:21:00.000+08:00

This is one race that makes any summer race looks easy and of course if you think the Singapore Version of The North Face 100 is tough enough, think again.

An eight stage race of a total of 142miles. The total estimate ascent is 14,000m (45,930ft) and 13,300km (43,630ft) for descent.

The race is held yearly in September and format is in a team of 2. And you can expect to see the mountain scenery of Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy. This is the absolute beautiful but with extreme alpine condition. Extreme heat in Morrocco and this is the extreme cold of Transalpine-Run.

Stage 1 2008 series

Stage 2 2008 series

Stage 3 2008 series

Stage 4 2008 Series

Stage 5 2008 Series

Stage 6 2008 Series

Stage 7 2008 Series

Final Stage (8) 2008 Series

Of Course, for those who are ready for this, check out this website:

www.transalpine-run.com

The North Face 100

2008-10-26T23:09:00.000+08:00

Told myself that I should do something about this part. Anyway, here is the thing. There is a new series of race brewing up this year called The North Face 100 and I must say its finally here! Why? Because previously if we race junkies wants to do an ultramarathon, we have to head out to places like Europe, Mongolia, and USA.

So its great to have this series available in Asia Pacific. Started in May at Blue Mountain Australia, The North Face 100 series, travels through The Philippines in July and Singapore in October and now heading to China for the grand finale in April. These are just some of the highlights from Australia and Singapore and I am sure the race will get more exciting and interesting next year.

Enjoy!

The North Face 100 Australia

The North Face 100 Singapore

Ironman (Remembrance of Hero) - Part 2

2008-10-17T21:04:00.000+08:00

Love of the Father is the key word to this person who will do everything just to give his son the quality of life his son deserve. He is none other than Dick Hoyt and together with his son Rick, they are fondly known on the Queen K highway as Team Hoyt.

This video speaks louder than anything that I have mention. Be Inspired!

Ironman (Remembrance of Heroes) - Part 1

2008-10-14T11:45:00.000+08:00

In the spirit of the Ironman, I decided to take us through some of the heroes who has raced the Ironman over the last few years that brought many of us to tears and inspire us to be strong the chase our dreams.

First stop is none other than Jon "Blazeman" Blais. The Warrior Poet that fought strongly with ALS. Though he was gone last year but his Will and his Spirit lives on and had spurred us on to keep fighting and to have action against ALS. The famous roll to the finish line still can be seen at all the Ironman race and Chrissie Wellington did just that during this years race.

Blazeman, we salute you!

This is just one of the famous poem written by Jon Blais and it can be found on his website:

It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your hearts longing.

It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dreams or for the adventure of being alive.

It doesn't interest me what planets are squaring your moon. I want to know if you have touched the center of your sorrow. If you have been opened by life's betrayals or have become shriveled and close from fear of further pain. I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own, without moving to hide it or fade it or fit it. I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own; if you can dance with the wildness and let the "Meatheadedness" fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, be realistic, or to remember the limitations of being human.

It doesn't interest me if the story you're telling is true. I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself, if you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul. I want to know if you can be faithful and trustworthy. I want to know if you can see beauty even when it is not there everyday, and if you can source your life from its presence. I want to know if you can live with failure, yours and mine, and still shout stand on the edges of a lake, river or mountain and shout to the silver of the full moon. Yes! I'm a Meathead...

It doesn't interest me to know where you live or how much money you have. I want to know if you can get up after a night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone, and do what needs to be done for someone you love.

It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you from the inside when all else falls away. I want to know if you can be alone with yourself, and truly like the company you keep in the empty moments of your life and still remember me...

Your friend, Blazeman - King of all "Meatheads" 2004.

Ironman World Championship 08 Race Day Report

2008-10-12T18:10:00.000+08:00

The results of the Ironman World Championship is out. Just like every Ironman race, one person misfortune is another person blessing. And yes, Ironman has a new World Champion. Craig "Crowie" Alexander is the new World Champion for the Men's Pro Field. Eneko Llanos second and my favourite and mos respected athlete Rutger Beke is third.

Not to mention Andy Potts attempting his first ironman after many years of short course and ITU triathlon came in an impressive 7th. Chris McCormack has to settle for a DNF due to a snap cable that the official says that it will take about 20mins to repair. So, he decided to call it a day. Timo Bracht was stripped off his 5th placing due to a bike course infraction.

On the women's side, Chrissie Wellington, the defending champion fenced off all comments about her last year win with a solid 15mins ahead of Yvonne Van Vlerken of The Netherlands. To top this off, she has a 10min deficit due to a tyre puncture that she has problem inflating a spare tyre. 3 catridges of CO2 cannisters and nothing works. Rebecca Keat threw a forth catridge to save the day.

This is truely the mark of a true champion. Triathlete Magazine press clipping is attached below for those who wants more insight.

Alexander and Wellington run away with Ironman World Championship

Mechanical mishap takes Macca out of the race; Wellington rebounds from a 10-minute flat-tire stop to dominate the women's race

Story and Photos by Brad Culp & Courtney Johnson

Oct. 11, 2008 -- In only his second attempt at the Hawaii Ironman World Championship, Australia's Craig Alexander used a blistering run to win by three minutes over Spaniard Eneko Llanos. In a field full of strong cyclists, "Crowie", as Alexander is known, remained patient on the bike and took over the race on the run. Alexander was 13th out of the water, 11th off the bike and first at the finish after a 2:45:00 marathon.

In the women's race, undefeated Iron-woman Chrissie Wellington of Great Britain battled back from a 10-minute stop to fix a flat tire to go on to win by 14:57 over Yvonne Van Vlerken of the Netherlands. Wellington's run-split of 2:57:44 was a new course record. Sandra Wallenhorst of Germany also ran under three hours (2:58:35) to finish third.

How the men's race unfolded

Few were surprised to see American Andy Potts, Frenchman Benjamin Sanson and Aussie Pete Jacobs smoke the rest of the field on the swim. Potts was first to exit the water, with Sanson three seconds back and Jacobs another three seconds behind. The group had three minutes on the next pack, which included Kiwi Bryan Rhodes and Spaniard Eneko Llanos.

Twenty miles into the bike Sanson still led and Potts was on the side of the road serving a drafting penalty. Super-bikers Chris Lieto (USA) and Torbjorn Sindballe (DEN) were less than half a mile behind Sanson and making up ground—fast. Also playing catch-up were defending champion Chris McCormack (AUS) and two-time champ Normann Stadler (GER), who were both about two minutes behind.

Flash-forward to the bike turnaround at Hawi and the leaderboard had changed entirely. Lieto Sindballe set the pace, with 2005 champ Faris Al-Sultan (GER) one minute back and Llanos two minutes behind. Shortly after the top athletes made their turn for home, McCormack snapped his front derailieur cable and was in serious trouble. Macca was told by tech support that it would take up to 20 minutes to repair and he decided to drop out of the race.

As the leaders stormed back toward Kailua-Kona, Sindballe dropped the hammer and began to pull away from everyone. Shortly after mile 70, we clocked Torbjorn at 28 mph, pedaling at 70 rpm. Needless to say, he was really grinding.

Sindballe hit T2 with a lead of almost five minutes (after a 4:27 bike-split) over Lieto and six minutes over Stadler. Next off the bike were Eneko Llanos and Al-Sultan, two of the strongest runners in the field.

Sindballe looked strong as he charged out of transition and onto Alii Drive, but Llanos and Stadler looked even better. The Great Dane’s lead quickly diminished and the pair of Llanos and Stadler made quick work of the two leaders (Lieto and Sindballe). At the 10-mile mark, Stadler was in the lead with Llanos only a few seconds behind. Lieto and Sindballe dropped well off the pace and Aussie Craig Alexander surged into third position, 2:30 behind the leaders.

Alexander took over the lead around the 17-mile mark, after running 6:20 per mile to that point. He opened up a small gap on Llanos and easily grew his lead with each passing stride. Shortly after Crowie moved into first, Brown passed Stadler to assume third position.

At the 22-mile mark the race was all but over. Alexander’s lead was at three minutes and growing fast, as Llanos battled to hang onto second over a surging Rutger Beke (BEL).

Alexander crossed the line in 8:17:45 after running a 2:45:00 marathon. Three minutes later, Llanos finished second, barely hold off Beke, who was only 33 seconds back of the runner-up. Two of the biggest surprises of the day came from the fourth and fifth place finishers. Ronnie Schildknecht (SUI), who won Ironman Switzerland earlier this year, finished in fourth today, only 23 seconds behind Beke. Fifth place was German Timo Bracht, who may be disqualified pending review of a bike-course infraction. The second, third and fourth place finishers (Llanos, Beke and Schildknecht) were separated by only 56 seconds.

In his first-ever Ironman Potts finished as the top American, in eighth place, after an 8:33:50 effort. Michael Lovato was the next American to finish – 57 seconds behind Potts – in tenth.

How the women's race unfolded

Team TBB athlete Hillary Biscay was out of the water first for the women in 54:35, followed closely by a pack of Gina Ferguson, Gina Kehr and Nina Kraft ten seconds back.

Onto the bike, Kraft made an early move in town and through the ten-mile mark had three seconds on Dede Grisebauer and Kehr, with Chrissie Wellington in fourth at only forty seconds back.

Shortly after fifteen miles Wellington took the lead, pushing a big gear and within thirty miles already was 1:10 up on second-place Leanda Cave and almost two minutes up on a third-place Grisebauer.

Similar to the changing winds blowing the field all over the place, the women’s standings on the bike were all over as Granger moved into second at forty miles, 2:40 back of Wellington. Cave and Grisebauer were only a few seconds back of Granger.

At 55 miles, Wellington flatted and had trouble inflating her spare tube. After going through three cartridges, Rebekah Keat threw another to her and rode off. The Britt, who typically takes the first bike of the bike easy, found herself having to play catch up. Wellington had a lead of five minutes when she flatted and afterward was six minutes behind the new leaders of Cave, Grisebauer and Granger.

Taking no time, Wellington started working through the field of women who passed her while she was stuck on the side of the road. At 59 miles she was only 5:20 back of Granger and at 75 miles she was only 1:17 behind Granger and already ahead of Cave and Grisebauer. Soon after 85 miles, she passed Granger and quickly started gaining time on her.

Into T2, Wellington had over seven minutes on Granger and eight on Yvonne Van Vlerken, who quickly plowed through the field coming back from Hawi.

At a speed as blazing as the heat out on the course, Wellington continued to gain more time on the run, and had 9:34 on Van Vlerken at mile four. Granger was now sitting in third at 11:36 back.

On pace to beat the run record set by Lori Bowden in 1999, Wellington ran 6:30 per mile through the first 8 miles, faster then every male except Craig Alexander, who was happy to know she was running 10-20 seconds per mile slower than him.

The searing temperatures in the Energy Lab didn’t slow the thirty one year old’s pace as she ran a 6:37 mile into the turnaround. Back on the Queen K and through twenty miles, Van Vlerken was over 13 minutes behind and Wallenhorst holding onto third another three minutes.

Onto Alii Drive, Wellington's lead continued as Wallenhorst gained time on Van Vlerken, making a close race for second.

Racing in honor of her grandmother who died of breast cancer six weeks ago and coming across the line doing the “Blazeman Roll”, Wellington won her second Ironman World Championship in 9:06:23, setting a new run course record by almost two minutes. In second in 9:21:20 was Quelle Challenge Roth winner Van Vlerken and in third was Ironman Austria winner Sandra Wallenhorst at 9:22:52.

Ford Ironman World Championship
Kona, Hawaii
October 11, 2008
2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, 26.2-mile run

Men
1. Craig Alexander (AUS) 8:17:45
2. Eneko Llanos (ESP) 8:20:50
3. Rutger Beke (BEL) 8:21:23
4. Ronnie Schildknecht (SUI) 8:21:46
5. Timo Bracht (GER) 8:23:04*
*pending disqualification ruling
6. Cameron Brown (NZL) 8:26:17

Women
1. Chrissie Wellington (GBR) 9:06:23
2. Yvonne Van Vlerken (NED) 9:21:20
3. Sandra Wallenhorst (GER) 9:22:52
4. Erika Csomor (HUN) 9:24:49
5. Linsey Corbin (USA) 9:28:51

Pro Athlete Interview for Kona 2008

2008-10-11T20:44:00.000+08:00

This is the updates of some of the interview of the pro athletes for Kona.

Women's Pro

Interview with Chrissie Wellington

Interview with Yvonne Van Vlerken

Interview with Kate Major

Interview with Joanna Lawn

Interview with Natasha Badmann

Men's Pro

Interview with Chris McCormack

Interview with Faris Al-Sultan

Interview with Andy Potts

Interview with Luke Bell

Interview with Normann Stadler

Interview with Torbjorn Sinballe

Interview with Craig Alexander

Ironman World Championship

2008-10-10T19:47:00.000+08:00

This is it. All the training and racing for the last one year and it will boil down to this weekend. Welcome to Ironman World Championship 2008. This is the 30th Anniversary for the M-Dot and as usual the race will start at the bay of Kailua Kona, Hawaii exactly at 7.00am on this coming saturday 11 Ocotber 2008.

30 years of Ironman

I am personally excited as I count down to the next 28 plus hours. Well, this years race you will see the showdown of the Elite Men Athlete like, the defending champion Chris McCormack (aka Macca), last year first runner-up Craig Alexander (aka Crowie) and Norminator - Norman Stadler and of course the Giant SUV, Torbjorn Sinaballe who say on yesterday's press conference that he is ready to stick on to the Norminator in the bike leg.

Macca talking to the press

On the Women's, Chrissie is set and poise to defend her title but with all humility and grace, she was telling the press that she is strong and trained well, but there are many girls out there that can still put a equally good race. Watch out for Rebecca Keat, Rebecca Preston, and Natasha Badmann and of course, Miss Consistency, Kate Major.

Chrissie, as always showing her sunshine laughter

Sabah Adventure Challenge 2008 Part 2

2008-10-08T19:29:00.000+08:00

Team Photo Taken at the Hotel

Well, This is the Second Installment of Sabah Adventure Challenge 2008. Of course you know what happen on Day 1. Now, this is the rest of the silly race story.

Getting ready for the start

Morning view of the Starting Line

PS With Mr. Adrian Mok (Polar Electro Singapore)

On day 2, we woke up really early in the morning to get ready to head out to the starting line. Got a few photo shots at the Hotel of the race. Then headed out to the starting line by the coach buses arranged by the organiser. Well, that's pretty much a incremental cost for them. According to them, that is not planned for in the initial race plan but due to the extreme rainy weather over the weeks, the start line been altered and changed and these plan have to put in place.

Tyrolean Traverse over the Inanam Waterfall

Endless Slops and Hills forces many to push their bikes

Including Myself & PS

I don't why but the nervousness sure got me jittery and went to the toilet a couple of time. Mr. Adrian Mok, our friend from Singapore and the General Manager of Polar Electro Singapore was there to flag off the race. Usually, he will be one of those competitors on the start line but today he is the Guest of Honor to flag off the race.

Team Shots

Of we went when the race honked sounded. We started the race with a 1plus kilometer road run, I was panting firstly due to the nervousness and of course I am more of a biker than a runner but still I cannot give that as an excuse. I am just typically out of shape! Sigh! "Okay, Gotta move, Gotta move, need to move my sorry arse along!" In the mean time, Rocketman and Chief Navigator KC was moving along well and getting into the groove on his run. PS was behind but as you know, she is a runner and I was expecting her to be pick it up as the race progresses.

Ok, we are CP1 and pick up our bike and then with the series of checks on the maps, we move off to the trail with a bunch of Frenchmen and locals on our mountain bike. I went ahead as usual. I am a mountain biker, so it is natural that I was faster and more comfortable on the bike. A couple of kilometers later and a couple of bunny hops later, we hit the road and then....SHIT!...we missed a turn! Ok, after some checks by KC, we managed to find our way back on course, phew!

Anyway, In total for Day 1 we kinda missed a few key location and got a little lost here and there but not as bad as Ling's and Rebecca's Team. We were making progress slow and easy.

Of course, one thing I hated the most is the endless slops on the bike course. But well, it gets you fitter so no complains.

At the CP where Doctor will be checking on PS injury

Doctor Getting ready to stitch up PS Cuts

As the race progress, dramas started to unfold. PS got a bad crash while we were on a not so technical downhill. She had a bad fall on landed kinda sideway or face plunge, of course she was not really sure about that. "Ouch!" That was all we heard. KC was saying, it can't be serious because she stood up. I was like, "I don't think so." True enough PS raises her hands and we quickly ran towards her to check it out. What we saw was a really deep cut under her chin and a puncture wound near to it.

Pre-stitch condition (Check out the bloodstain on the patch)

Anyway, we quickly takes out the first aid kit to patch her up and preparing to evacuate her as we she no point for her to carry on for day 1. After much fumbling and clean ups, we were on our way again and we manage to check in to the nect checkpoint and told the official that we need medical attention. So PS is stay put at the checkpoint and waiting for the race doctor to access and patch her chin up. We took the chance to eat and drink and pass some of the extra equipment to her since we will not be using them.

Not for those who have a problem with Blood

Finishing Touch

Well, more drama will unfold for the rest of day 1 as we continue....stay tuned folks!

Glamor shot with the marshals

The Amazing Buff!

2008-09-29T22:31:00.000+08:00

This is not a marketing attempt and NO, I am not sponsored by Buff. I am just an ardent fan for buff for the last 1 year. Ever since someone recommended Buff to me. I have pretty much fall in love with this piece of wonder garment that is multifunctional. And I must say that everyone who do serious sports or outdoor adventure sports should have one. Its amazing, I Buff will get rid of all the overpacking of different headwear and neck protection. Have fun exploring.

STANDARD BUFF DEMO

VISOR BUFF DEMO

MY FAVOURITE (POLAR BUFF DEMO)

Something Old School.

2008-09-27T20:56:00.000+08:00

After a really hectic and busy day, sometime all you need is just something that brings good memories of school days. Rick Astley, Erasure, or OMD in the Eighties. Maybe Stone Temple Pilot, Pearl jam or even Firehouse. But what I really love is the easy going songs by Crowded House. These are just some of their MTV that I manage to pick it out from Youtube.

Something So Strong

Weather With You

Don't Dream It's Over

Better Be Home Soon

Sabah My Second Home!

2008-09-24T13:09:00.000+08:00

Its official. Sabah, Borneo, East Malaysia is my second home. There so much more thing about Sabah than in Singapore I can rave about. Its the place where I seek refuge and a place to slow myself down so that I can think properly and of course a place where it never fail to renew my Faith in God and the future. A place that God speaks to me the most clear.

What can I say. Perhaps this song by another youtube guy will tell you. This is the same feeling I have.

Sabah Tea Garden! A place where you go back to basic!

2008-09-23T19:49:00.000+08:00

I was just at Sabah Tea Garden last Wednesday and this is just a video I found on youtube.com but I have person inventory of pictures and I must tell you that this is a fun place to be. 6000 plus acres of land to play with, this is where the Rainforest meets the tea bushes the organic way. See, Sabah Tea does not use pesticides or any artificial chemical to grow the tea bushes. It is all run by mother nature. Relying on nature predators in the insect food chain, the tea florish.

The taste of the tea is well balance and no artificial coloring. The site, its beautiful, great place to train for mountain biking, ultramarathon trail running, hiking and of course bird watching.

Well, here is a series of photos.

Sabah to Date! (Pictures)

2008-09-18T22:39:00.000+08:00

As promised, this is the photos!

Some Tradition Local Food

Sunset Pictures at Karabunai Beach @ Nexus Resort

In Sabah to Date!

2008-09-17T10:01:00.000+08:00

Yes! You hear me. I am in Sabah again. Decided on the very last minute to come to Sabah to rejuvenate myself and kick in some good bike training. Weather is still very much predictable with 2 days of sunshine and 1 day of rain kind of interval.

Manage a couple of rides on the first week which I was really happy, though I almost got into an accident by some typical Sabah "Jaywalker" who simply cross the road and obliviously came right in my path and I really have to brake hard. Thanks to the new KCNC brakes which have a better braking power or else I will definitely do some crazy flying stuns.

Anyway, since it is a training and relaxation trip, I decided to give myself a treat by heading to Pulau Manukan and Pulau Sapi to chill and do some swim and snorkeling. Lovely place! Yup, Stay Tune for more action as I update you guys with more pictures and my exploration at Sabah Tea plantation tomorrow.

Ride On!

Trail Running, Anyone?

2008-09-08T11:56:00.000+08:00

Get Inspired! This is a video from The North Face. Nicely made with no pretentious motive but just to inspire people to get to the trail and run. Really love this video as it is so candid and so simple. Just gets me motivated to head out to the trail and run which I must confess that I have not done that in ages. Well, I will hit the trail this week in Sabah. Bukit Padang, here I come!

July Escapade Part 3

2008-09-03T23:24:00.000+08:00

Enroute to Aviemore, Cairngorms in View (Shang, Our Chief)

Cattle right outside the house in Aviemore - Time was 9.30pm

So much for the credit card saga even though it never resolve until I came back to Singapore. Got on the ever fun and interesting Ryan Air from Frankfurt Hahn to Edinburgh. I was sleeping through the flight due to the whole night of sleeplessness from Salzburg to Frankfurt.

Little Isaac was Camera Shy! Enroute to Aviemore

Our Team Machine (Trustworthy Vauxhall Astra)

After touch down, I was greeted with a Immigration officer who is friendly and nice to welcome me to Edinburgh. Waited for my friend, Shang and his family. we got on the rented car with the outside temperature of 14degree. By this time, I am totally used to the cold and the summer chill. Well, 2nd week in Europe and 2nd trip to Europe, what do you expect right? I was appointed the road navigator from Edinburgh to the highland. AVIEMORE is the place we are heading.

Correy House (our home for the next 5 days) - Picture taken at 9.30pm
The Neighborhood

After fumbling with the map, I finally got the direction right. Scotland is beautiful. The lush greenery, the historical structures with rich stories of the Lords and Kings in ancient times. And of course, Scotch Whiskey Distilleries, Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, Dewars, and many more. By this time, we have hit midway and decided to find a place to stop, have a typical scottish breakfast, and find a washroom to ease ourselves. 2hrs to 3hrs later, we finally reach Aviemore. Visited the administration office and visited some outdoor shops. I love this place, I love outdoor gears and products and I am totally fascinated by the fact that there are at least 5 stores along the span of 1 kilometer.

Kitchen of Correy House
The backyard garden - Taken at 9.30pm

I was introduced to the local grocery place. Singapore has NTUC, Giant, and Cold Storage, USA got Costco and Wal-Mart, Scotland??? TESCO of course. They have virtually everything. From Marinated meat to all kinds of teas, Beers, Ales, Ciders and more. Bought the grocery and hit the house. So much for day 1. For the rest of the trip, stay tuned!

The Interior

Heart of a Champion

2008-09-03T00:28:00.000+08:00

"Achievement is largely the product of steadily raising one's level of aspiration and expectation". This is the inspiring statement made Ms. Sam Wariner. Anyway, this video never fails to inspire me. Its about Bevan Doherty appearing being passed and drop by another racer and how from a far distance looks set to lose the race. But by not giving up and pushing and picking up the sprint pace, a champion emerged. Never quits even though it may seems that the race is over and taking second is the only chance....go for it until the victor is crowned.

Artificial Animal, No Batteries Needed!

2008-09-02T23:15:00.000+08:00

I know this might be an old news, but I must say this is really fascinating. I was just looking around in youtube for some interesting video and stumble on this. Enjoy!

Theo Jansen - BMW Advertisement

Theo Jansen - Animaris Rhinoceros

Theo Jansen - Strandbeest ("Beachbeast")

Theo Jansen, if you're unfamiliar, is the progenitor of Strandbeests--autonomous, wind-powered plastic tube creatures, many the size of elephants and larger, that this Dutch artist / engineer assembles to roam the beaches of Holland. And this is called Kinetic Sculptures.

Presentation by Theo Jansen at TED

Misty Hike

2008-09-01T00:38:00.000+08:00

Well,

I always feels that I am pretty blessed to have a nature reserve 15mins away from my home. And of course, often times I kind of taken it for granted. Brought a bunch of new friends to Dairy Farm Quarry (nickname "Eco-Valley") yesterday morning.

Well, at 6.45am to 7.15am when the sun is coming up, this is what you get. Enjoy!

NAZI Hates ERP!!!

2008-08-26T22:33:00.000+08:00

The Nazi are one of the most advance in their time. Even they hate ERP and this is why!

(Courtesy from Mr Brown)

And Hilter did just that!

Manuel B Gamboa Jnr.

2008-08-21T22:29:00.000+08:00

From left: Manuel, Caleb and Myself

Well,

I have never really tell people about my feelings when I lost a friend a couple of years back. But well, I am not intending to anyway. Just that I just wanted to remind people what true friendship is all about.

Best of Buddy: Caleb and Manuel at Eco-Xcapade

Many years back, I met a Filipino guys who is a graphic designer. His name is called Manuel Gamboa Jnr. Well, he happens to be a friend of another of my friend and of course we started doing Rock Climbing at Dairy Farm, Safra Bukit Merah together. After which, I did 2 road trip to Krabi Thailand together. Well, our friendship went beyond just road trip and climbing. At about the same time, we lost our jobs and was encouraging one another to keep looking. We started racing Adventure Race together, hanging out with another of our close team mate, Caleb. He is the catalyst, the gel and the motivator in our team. We have loads of fun!

Abseiling down during Eco-Xcapade

Just when we both start our new career, something happen. I was abruptly contact with a sms from Caleb one fine day and he told me Manuel is in a hospital complaining about chest pain. I, of course took it as just another outpatient visit to the A & E. Next thing I know was I got a call in the evening while attending an important meeting that Manuel was in critical condition and by the time I got there, he was gone.

I never quite got the hang of it. But of course, I am to be blame for not being concern enough. Until today, I have never quite got over it and the guilt I guess is still there.

Post Race bike wash

Anyway, as I pen down this, I really would like express my firm friendship to this beloved friend of mine whom went through thick and thin with me when there were self-doubt and pitfalls.

Manuel, this is for you. My beloved friend and buddy forever and ever!

Manuel, We will always remember you!

THE 'MAN' RULES

2008-08-20T00:50:00.000+08:00

THE 'MAN' RULES

At last a guy has taken the time to write this all down

We always hear 'the rules'
From the female side.

Now here are the rules from the male side.

These are our rules!
Please note.. these are all numbered '1 '
ON PURPOSE!

1. Men are NOT mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat.
You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down.
We need it up, you need it down.
You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports It's like the full moon
or the changing of the tides.
Let it be.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want.
Let us be clear on this one:
Subtle hints do not work!
Strong hints do not work!
Obvious hints do not work!
Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question..

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do.
Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument.
In fact, all comments become Null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are.
Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one

1. You can either ask us to do something
Or tell us how you want it done.
Not both.
If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1.. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials...

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings.
Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it will be scratched.
We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say 'nothing,' We will act like nothing's wrong.
We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine.... Really .

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball
or golf.

1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoe s.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

1. Thank you for reading this.
Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight;

But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.
Pass this to as many men as you can -
to give them a laugh.

Pass this to as many women as you can -

to give them a bigger laugh.

Kudo to Frodeno and Snowsill

2008-08-19T17:55:00.000+08:00

Emma Snowsill and Emma Moffatt at the Finish

Great Job Snowie and Frody....You guys hit the Gold streak on the Olympic Triathlon. I must say that for Frody has been really a Sprint to finish which is really strategic breaking the heart of Gomez, Doherty and Whitfield. Germany will be proud of you my friend.

Snowie, you really lift up to our expectation. G'on ya mate! Nice finish and Australia is having a good day, Its a good Aussie Day and Emma day. Moffatt finishes 3rd after Fernandes from Portugal who is one of the favourite!

Frodeno at the Finsh Line

2008 Men’s Olympic Triathlon
Ming Tomb Reservoir, Beijing, China
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
1. Jan Frodeno (GER) 1:48:53
2. Simon Whitfield (CAN) 1:48:58
3. Bevan Docherty (NZL) 1:49:05
4. Javier Gomez (ESP) 1:49:13
5. Ivan Rana (ESP) 1:49:21
6. Daniel Unger (GER) 1:49:43
7. Hunter Kemper (USA) 1:49:58
8. Rasmus Henning (DEN) 1:49:57
9. Igor Sysoev (RUS) 1:49:59
10. Frederic Belaubre (FRA) 1:50:00

2008 Women’s Olympic Triathlon
Ming Tomb Reservoir, Beijing, China
Monday, August 18, 2008

1. Emma Snowsill (AUS) 1:58:27
2. Vanessa Fernandes (POR) +1:06
3. Emma Moffatt (AUS) +1:28
4. Laura Bennett (USA) +1:53
5. Juri Ide (JPN) +1:56

July Escapade Part 2

2008-08-17T15:00:00.000+08:00

From Left: Myself, Panke from Beijing, Ken from Manila, Sabrina from Shanghai, Dip from Nepal (Lunch at Festung Hohen Salzburg)

Well,

This is the part 2 Installment of the July Trip to Europe. Saalfelden in Austria is typically a slow, sleepy town and yes, the very first morning was an early day for me as I woke up at 5am for a very early morning run. Temperature was about 12 degrees or so. Midway through the 5km, my ears felt as if its going to fall off. So much for the run. Silly me! Should have brought myself a beanie or something.

Ken, Myself and Panke before Ken Catch a flight back home

Climbing up to Festung Hohen

The rest of the weeks was typically work and work, meeting and meetings. But over it was fun and of course, I was able to make new friends from Taiwan and meet up with old friends from, Thailand, Japan, Hong Kong, and the Philippines.

Sabrina and Ken on Top of Festung Hohen Salzburg

Of course, we managed to help down to Salzburg, for some interesting trip to the Mozart Museum, the Festung Hohen Salzburg. Its a wonderful experience I must say as this is one of the most extensive European Holiday I have subjected myself to.

Salzburg Airport

Street of Salzburg

Of course, after an One Day Tour of Salzburg, I have to take an overnight train to Frankfurt Hahn Airport where I will take a Flight to Edinburgh for my second half of my European Holiday.

View of Festung Hohen Salzburg

Horse Carriage On Salzburger Street

A Day Before Euro 2008 at Salzburg

as I arrive at Frankfurt International Airport, I was not aware that there is a different in Frankfurt International Airport and Frankfurt Hahn Airport. I was totally freaked out. Good thing my flight is at 9am and I was at Frankfurt International Airport at 5am. After 30 minutes of futile attempt to check in at Frankfurt International Airport with loads of luggage, I decided that its time to ask.

Mozart Geburtshaus (Old residence of Mozart)

I was greeted with a guy whom I believed weighs more than a 100kg at the information counter who does not look very awake and very happy to see a "Yellow Skin Dude" asking him where to check in. Why do I say that? He makes me go around in circles to find a bus stop that I am totally clueless its whereabout.

My Best Buddy Dip from Nepal

Okay, after a another 20 minutes of merry-go-round and a shocker reply from a Lufthansa staff who told me the bus does not goes to Frankfurt Hahn Airport, I finally got on the bus and on my way to the airport. Finally, things are working out. Wrong!

Public Garden in Salzburg

When I finally reach the airport, I decided to check my credit card just to make sure it works as you know I only manage to change a 100 sterling pounds, so I need backups here. To my utter shock, they have terminate my current card and have replace a need matriculated Credit Card where they claim to have sent me 6 months back. I was in utter shock and of course call for a backup plan which eventually didn't work out. So for more stories, stay tune to the next installment.

Top View of Salzburg

Endurance Is!

2008-08-17T14:30:00.000+08:00

The Definition of Endurance Is....

...Challenges that pushes your limit?....

.....Knowing that the road ahead is still long.....

.......Its not about Winning But Finishing it.......

...........So, What is your definition of Endurance Is????

Its Finally Here!

2008-08-16T20:51:00.000+08:00

Its finally here! The Pakuma Messenger Bags is in Singapore! WooHoo! Go check it out at Mercury 180.

Sabah Adventure Challenge 2008 Part1

2008-08-15T00:07:00.000+08:00

Sabah has always been a special place in my heart as this is the place I have my personal retreat last year and I have called it my second home for the longest time. I have loads of friends over there and Kota Kinabalu is probably the place I am most familiar with.

Majestic Mount Kinabalu

From Sutera Harbour to the General Hospital (Of course not because of any medical reasons) and the small towns like Tuaran, Menggatal, Inanam, and Papar, these places that have my footprint of some sort. I LOVE SABAH! That's the word I have told everyone. I spend my entire July 07 in Sabah, Running, Cycling, swimming, training up for the Ironman 70.3 and of course this is also a place where I get my inspiration and my personal peace and reflection.

Part of the Torture Crew, Aman and Gang...hehehe!

So what I did in March, I took time off to head down to Sabah again and have a sufferfest of some sort. I convinced 2 other friends, KC and PS to join the notorious Sabah Adventure Challenge. How good a friend I am right? Ask them and they will tell you stories. So off we left on 20th March at the wee hours of the day at about 4am to 5am and head down to Senai airport and catch the Most Fun! Airline, Air Asia of course to Kota Kinabalu. Road to Senai is smooth and of course my nonsensical trash talk in car distracted the driver and we miss a turn. But of course, with the ever friendly Malaysian Traffic system, we made it on time. Got on the plane and of we go.

Yue En, Michael's Daughter

Arrive at Kota Kinabalu at about 9plus in the morning and got greeted by some familiar faces, Michael Wong and his 2 lovely daughter and of course my beloved aunt. Load up the stuff and head down for the Typical Sabahan Breakfast. Woohoo....I miss it so much. Air is fresher, food is tastier with more flavors and of course the coffee smells more aromatic.

The rest of the day is sleep for KC and PS and for me, Team Mechanic time. I have to set up the bikes and get the equipment ready for the race briefing in the evening.

Stupid Driver that hits Michael's Car (in white, Michael's 4x4)

By mid day, the equipment was all set to go until we discover that KC's Bike Front Tire is no sitting in and we burst 2 tubes. So off we went to the race briefing, hoping to resolve the issue at the race briefing. Meet the team Aman, Claus and the team. KC went out with Michael to check out some bike shops and being a public holiday, all the shops are closed. What makes things worst, they met with an accident and Michael's 4x4 rear got a hit from a Kancil minivan and being Sabah, Michael has to pay the guy a few hundred ringgit. Its so Stupid! But it Sabah. Ah, What the Heck!

Stay tune for more installment as I unfold more hilarious encounter of the Notorious Sabah Adventure Challenge 2008.

Look of the Start Line in the Morning

Applesac (Eco Laptop Sleeve)

2008-08-14T14:11:00.000+08:00

Check out this Laptop Sleeve for all Mac Lovers. This is the Applesac.

I am a proud owner of this

The AppleSac sleeve is the first notebook protection worthy of the Apple MacBook, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, PowerBook and iBook. While Apple users enjoy the slim, sleek build of its notebooks, they often buy a bulky, uninspiring case to protect it. AppleSacs are designed for Apple users who want to provide protection for their MacBook, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, PowerBook or iBook without sacrificing style. You'll notice that our sleeves are made with unusual materials. We try to use sustainable fabrics that look great. We also donate 1% of our sales to environmental causes. Original, efficient, and simple, an AppleSac MacBook sleeve is engineered to be used as solo protection, or combined with a briefcase or backpack. AppleSacs feature a front pocket that perfectly fits cds, dvds, or your power adapter. AppleSacs are top loading for easy access and are held securely shut with 6 inches of velcro. You'll also find an AppleSac spin on iPod and iPhone protection here.

Available at: Mercury 180

Mercury 180

2008-08-14T12:06:00.000+08:00

Went down to this store Mercury 180 a couple of time and I must say that they have neat stuffs. Apparently, they are the only store in Queensway that have a full range of Lawman Jeans wear. Lawman came and gone and came and gone for a couple of time. Well, hope this brand do stays as it has been quite an impact in my school days.

Anyway, this place is very interesting as you will see stuffs that are fashion and at the same time very much sports. I was thrilled to see eyewear brands like Ryders and Optic Nerve and of my favourite, The North Face and Yankz Speed Laces.

Cool Place Man! Oh, I ask permission from the shop owner to have a couple of pictures and here it is. Mercury 180.

Address: 1 Queensway Shopping Centre, #02-05

Nighty Night??? Booo!!!

2008-08-12T12:00:00.000+08:00

Went out on Sunday for the notorious Sunday Night Ride! And yes, Night Offroad Ride. Really Cool that night but of course the humidity is insane. Sweating all over the of course the 7th Month Joss Sticks and Papers that burns becomes the backdrop of the entrance. Choking but manageable.

Verdict for this ride? Fun? Sleeps are for the weak!

As we Enter!

Damned! Pinched Flat!

Sonic Booommm!!!

Chilled Out!

Pakuma!

2008-08-11T22:42:00.000+08:00

Check this out! The New Brand coming to Singapore. Pakuma. Who needs a Crumpler or a Timbuk 2.

Check out this Akara Pack!

Like what they say, "Life is a journey, Make sure you arrive in Style!"

Heard that this store called Mercury 180 at Queensway Shopping Centre is bringing in the products.

Address: Queensway Shopping Centre, #02-05

Hilarious Way to Test Product

2008-08-10T23:10:00.000+08:00

This is the most hilarious way I have ever seen in terms of product testing. Waterproofness test....muahahaha...PSI Test.....

Unbelievable!

The North Face Enrapture

2008-08-10T22:45:00.001+08:00

By the look the picture, you know that the Enrapture is really good and I love it. Sticky Ultratac outsole really helps me on my descent and scrambling.

Walking on Snow

What is surprising though was that the snow and ice haven’t melt on the mountains and we have to cross a few passes that is cover with glacier and moraine. Manage to safely cross the pass without any problem. My feet was totally dry too. Which proves one point that we do not need a vibram sole to have good traction and we do not need Gore-Tex to keep us dry on our feet at selected condition.

Close Look on Snow

One issue that I must bring up is that the heel needs a snug fit, its too loose and I have problem with that especially when I run a bit.

Tomac Bike Updates!

2008-08-10T15:30:00.000+08:00

Well,

Like I mentioned , the Tomac Automatic has just gone on a little facelift with a brand new Manitou R7 and of course its has been really great.

This is some of the sweet pics of the Tomac Auomatic in the new R7.

Side View

Close Up

Front View

The North Face 100

2008-08-09T13:15:00.000+08:00

The North Face 100 Stage 1

This is one of the toughest single stage leg race for asia region. Anyway, Kudo to the regional team in The North Face to come out with a great race series. Really looking forward to the race in Beijing though.

www.thenorthface100.com
www.thenorthface100.sg

Manitou R7

2008-08-08T15:53:00.000+08:00

Well, I discarded the 2007 Fox F-series RLC 100 for the Manitou R7 Elite Absolute. Comparison with the previous rig, I must say it is so much plusher and gives me a little more confident on the descent. Jumps? No Problem. Weight? Lighter but not significant.

But over they just feel great! These are the specification:

Weight: Wt. Lbs. 3.3 (80), 3.4 (100) / Wt. Grams 1516 (80), 1557 (100)
Travel: 80mm or 100mm
Damping: Absolute Platform Damper
Adjustments: Rebound, Air, Platform
Lubrication: Semi-Bath
Spring: TS Air
Casting: One piece Reverse Arch (RA) Magnesium
Stanchions: 30mm Gold Al
Steerer: 1-1/8th Blue Al
Crown: Hollow
Axle: Standard QR
Ride Height (axle to race): 456/476
Color: Primer
Bosses: with Bosses
Wheel Size: 26"
Disc Mounts: Post
Disc Size: 180mm Max
Seals: Evil Genius
Compatible Rear Shock Models: S-Type, Swinger Air X3
MSRP: $399

July Escapade Part 1

2008-08-07T12:08:00.000+08:00

Austrian Alpine

In The Train

June and July this year was a good break. Trip to Europe has been really a great experience and a great time. With just "300euros", "100 Sterling Pound", I took a gamble to roam around Austria, Germany and Scotland. Of course, air tickets are covered by the company but well, the rest of the travel within Europe came from my own pocket.

Grassland Everywhere

Typical German Packed Lunch

Mountains

This has been the greatest experience so far.

The Famous Zell Am See

We landed in Munich on the first day, catch a train to Munich Central Station. Take a train to Saalfelden, Austria for the meeting. Along the way, you see great scenery, Austria has to offer. One of the Picturesque area is Zell Am See, a beautiful lake 45mins from Saalfelden. This lake is a great summer hang out place in Austria and you can see, families having quality time together involving in watersports and picnic. Its a great sight!

Triathlon World Cup Coming to Austria

Delays Delays Delays!

2008-08-01T08:58:00.000+08:00

Yup,

I am finally back in blogging after a long period of delays and busyness. This is the day that marks the beginning of a new chapter in my life as I put aside the work I have cherish so much for the last one year.

Maybe that is a good sign as I don't have to crack my head anymore with responsibilities, ideas and stuffs.

That means, there will be more play than work and work will be transcend into passion and heartbeat.

Stay Tuned as I work through my past months of adventures.

Hero Worship!

2008-05-01T21:59:00.000+08:00

Well,

Most of us who started mountain biking in the 1990s will remember the rigid bikes days and boy, did I have a fun time. I can every inch of that pounding. But, then came Suspension and John Tomac. He literally rock the Mountain Biking world and of course there are the likes to Tinker Juarez, Ned Overend, Julie Furtado, Missy Giove, Rishi Grewal and of course Trial Master Hans Rey.

But the one that really shape the entire MTB world is John Tomac aka Johnny T. He is an absolute legend.

The Winning Rig

What most interesting is that he have absolutely try all possible set up then (with the most advance technology available then) to push speed limit in the MTB XC World.

Yeti C-26 (Drop Bar set up and the Answer Manitou Fork)

Putting all these together just to have a feel of the early legend rig would be almost impossible but well, the folks at Tomac Bike decided to give us Johnny T fans a try of the legend and what do you get?

INTRODUCING TOMAC DB10 (Drop Bar 10th Anniversary)

This just in from Joel Smith from Tomac Bikes on the new Tomac DB10.

-The working name of the bike has been the DB10 (drop bar 10 years, 10 total to be built)
-This is the ten year anniversary of the Tomac brand, and this limited edition bike to commemorate the occasion.
-Johnny raced in drops back in 1990 and 1991. He was racing pro on the road as well as in the dirt and was very comfortable racing with drops.
-Custom build with straight gauge chromoly tubes by Chris Herting and custom painted by Spectrum Powder Works

The Background Story by Joel Smith
Johnny raced his drop bar bike back in 1990, at the time when I was racing Expert-level cross country and I saw him race the bike at Mammoth. He was absolutely flooring it, screaming by people on the descents, and I was highly impressionable when it was my cycling hero. The day I got home, I pulled an old set of bend drop bars out of a trash can at the local bike shop, took the shifters and road levers off a bike that someone had abandoned in our college house basement, and converted my mountain bike. Since that day, I’ve always wanted to make another one, but do it the right way.

Limited quantity 10 to be built.

Custom build with straight gauge chromoly tubes by Chris Herting and custom painted by Spectrum Powder Works

Chris Herting
If you haven’t heard of Chris Herting, it’s not for lack of accomplishments. As part owner and head of R&D at Yeti Cycles from 1985 to 1991, Herting was a central figure in the racing career of John Tomac and many of America’s top racers. Besides building the C26 race bike that brought Johnny gold at the Italy World Championships in 1991, he also built custom race bikes for Paolo Pezzo, Travis Brown, Dave Cullinan, Ruthie Mathis and Todd Wells. As the owner of 3D Racing in Durango, Colorado, Herting continues the craft he started at 12 years old: make custom handmade frames for discerning racers.

Spectrum Powder Works

Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Spectrum Powder Works is known, for producing some of the highest end custom paint finishes known to man. One of the pioneers in creating liquid-like paint finishes from powders, the DB10 paint scheme is a take off of the Tomac eagle’s wings. The Manitou fork is custom painted to resemble the early Manitou’s that Doug Bradbury built and Johnny raced.

Going Solo!

2008-04-21T00:47:00.000+08:00

Well,

I have been asking myself lately about this question, " How come I can't seems to train with others?" Maybe I have been too focus and too busy trying to focus on training. I have been thinking about my days in Sabah. I love the experience. Going Solo in whatever I do and I am in total peace with myself.

I am not sure if it is a good or bad thing but for that period of time, things work and I have been improving. I guess, it works for me and being a soloist at heart helps me to focus. To be honest, I think training solo in Sabah and training with a group in Singapore is a totally different thing altogether.

Guess, if I do weight the effective ratio, I would say Solo helps. I am very much a loner I guess. I can beat companionship to a certain extend. I can stay focus when I am alone. So for the next few months, I would just train alone and see if I perform and have a breakthrough in my race result. Let just wait and see then!

Tomac Automatic and The Limar Helmet

2008-04-20T22:53:00.000+08:00

If some of you think of switching to a full suspension. I would really say that Tomac Automatic. With the value and performance, it definitely outperforms all the other brands in the market place.

Overview of The Rig

This is the Specification that my Tomac Automatic:

Frame: Tomac Automatic size M (100mm Fox Rear Travel)

Fork: Fox F100 RLC 07

Wheels: Mavic CrossLand

Front Tire: Kenda Nevegal 2.1

Rear Tire: Kenda Small Block 8 2.1

Brakes: Shimano XT Hydraulic (2008)

Crank: Shimano XT with Rotor Q Ring Chain Ring

Cassette: Shimano XTR

Rear Deraileur: Shimano XT with KCNC Jockey

Front Deraileur: Shimano XTR

Pedals: Crank Brother Candy SL

Seatpost: FSA Carbon

Saddle: Selle San Marco

Headset: Crank Brothers Cobalt SL

Stem: Syntace

Handlebar: Easton EC90 Monkey Lite

Anyway, the Tomac Automatic is only available in late October 2008 because its a 2009 model.

Of course, The Guys at Actionbods was really gracious and sponsored a Limar MTB helmet for the 100km Mountain Bike Marathon. That's really cool. Love the helmet a lot as it doesn't press on my temple. I have always an issue with helmet as it is impossible to get a good fit. Thanks Guys for the great Limar Helmet.

Top View

Rear View

Bike Asia 100km MTB Marathon

2008-04-09T22:36:00.000+08:00

This coming weekend will be another crazy weekend. I have signed up the Mountain Biking 100km Marathon XC. Well, it will be 10laps of 10km. Woohoo! And the weapon of Choice of course will be now other than my most trusty Tomac Automatic.

The Race Route

Tampines Mountain Bike Trail:

Million Dollar

2008-04-08T23:04:00.000+08:00

How many of you out there have a secret dream that you want to be a millionaire. I do and I dare to say that the reality that being a millionaire is a lifelong pursue for me. Why? Because it definitely be better off rich than poor. So may say that this is Materialism but please remember this. With more money, comes greater responsibilities too. But with that responsibility comes opportunity for you to benefit others through philanthropy.

So?

Ridley Cobra Carbon MTB to Tomac Automatic

2008-04-08T22:30:00.001+08:00

This is it. The picture of my new (ahemm...) not so new MTB rig. Of course, I have been toying the idea of getting the bike for a total makeover. Guess What! I have put this bike through the Sabah Adventure Challenge and it is one heck of a good bike, but guess I am overweight for it. I have gain quite a decent amount of weight and so of I went.

Wala, I got myself a Tomac Bike 09 Automatic Full Suspension XC Bike. 100mm Travel on the Front and Back. This is courtesy from the Guys from The Cyclogy. Thanks guys! And if you really like the sweet design of Tomac Bikes. The Cyclogy is probably the only place in Singapore to get them.

Here's a video of the bike:

New Rig!

2008-01-23T22:30:00.000+08:00

Well,

After long series of procrastination and of course laziness (Too Busy to Ride), I finally putting this up. I finally managed to put up a new rig. My new Mountain Bike is the Ridley Cobra, A Carbon Fibre frame. Can't wait for this to be ready. The Guys at Cycle Craft have been really helpful in putting it up and they say that I can pick it up this Friday.

Great! Now I can train for Sabah Adventure Challenge and Dirtraction Dirty Weekend.

Stay Tune as I update the Pictures of the New Rig and the new specification and the Tampines Trail Ride this saturday!

Sabah Adventure

2008-01-19T22:47:00.000+08:00

Its been a while since I really bother about Adventure Racing. I was actually terminating my involvement in Adventure Racing.

Perhaps, I should give it another chance. So I will be heading to Sabah (If all things is confirmed) for another try on adventure racing.

So this march, I will pick up all the gears that I had and set it out to give Adventure Racing another try.

Wish me luck!

The North Face Ultra Trail Tour Du Mont Blanc

2007-11-29T21:41:00.000+08:00

As I was lazy around, I can't help but started thinking about the first time I set foot on a 100km run and of course remembering the ever inspiring book written by Dean Karnazes.

Of course, this wondering spin off to bigger spectrum and Ultra Running events pops out and I can't help but thinking about the Ultra Trail Tour Du Mout Blanc. 100 miles cross the range of Mont Blanc crossing France, Italy, switzerland and back to France. This is one of the events that I have always dreamt of doing. Well, I know I definitely will.

Running side by side Dean...hehehe.... Dean Dean, wait for me! Sign on my The North Face T-shirt!

The North Face Arnuva 50 Boa and Gulper

2007-11-29T21:02:00.000+08:00

It's been some time that I have not written anything about my favourite activity. Gear Testing and of course review. This is the part I am probably excited about.

Gear Test 1:
Features

I finally got the pair of The North Arnuva 50 Boa. Well, here is the specification: -

* Built for the athlete who runs trails, dirt paths, even road, and offering the cutting-edge Boa® lacing system for a rapidly-adjustable, secure fit.
* UPPER Boa® multi-adjust lacing system
* Abrasion-resistant bomber synthetic nubuck with highly breathable and protective sandwich mesh upper
* TPU injection saddle for optimal lateral and medial stability and support
* Northotic" ergonomically designed footbed with Poron® forefoot and heel inserts and AgION" antimicrobial footbed covering
* BOTTOM Ultra lightweight compression molded EVA midsole combined with X-2™ polymer dampening compounds provides high impact cushioning and long lasting support
* Rear foot compression cage provides mechanical assist to midsole components and neutral guidance for mild pronators proprietary The North Face® outsole with Tenacious Grip" rubber compound provides excellent traction both on-and off-road as well as stab

Personal Verdict:

I took this pair of Endurance Running shoes for a ride on both the road and offroad from Ulu Pandan Road through the Bukit Timah Mountain Bike Trail to Bukit Panjang and back home and I must say, it works well for me. I haven't put it on on regular runs but with my first run in it, I must say it works well for me. The Boa System stay well-kept and no mechanical dysfunction for me. And traction control, beside a little slippery on moss ground and wet surface, they work in excellence in terms of performance. Total distance, 15km of mixed terrain.

Gear Test 2:

The Gulper was having a bit of the leaking issue in the beginning. But its fine now and I must say that it fits really well in terms of the design and of course, the ventilation is paramount to performance and in humid country like Singapore, breathability is critical and The Gulper answers to the call. Here is the specification: -

Features

* Midsize hydration pack suited for a half-day epic adventure.
* E-VAP™ back panel
* E-VAP™ and airmesh shoulder harness
* Sternum strap with Safe-T whistle
* Removable waistbelt
* 70 oz Nalgene® reservoir with quick connect hose
* Articulated magnetic bite valve
* Large main compartment
* Internal organizer
* Side mesh pockets with elastic pump holder
* Zip front stash pocket
* X-bungee Light loop
* Reflective hit

Slacking and Busyness

2007-11-10T01:36:00.000+08:00

I Know, I Know! I have been really slacking in writing blogs for the last 2 months or so. The best excuse I can give is really, I have been super duper busy. Business, plus new work commitment. Yup, you hear me! New work commitment. I have just join The North Face family as the Brand Executive for Singapore.

So been really busy coz when you mention The North Face Singapore Team, it will be me and my boss. That's it! Gosh, I love to have a big team. But, reality told me that profit comes, workforce will increase.

So for now, just like The North Face philosophy says, "Never Stop Exploring" ways to work efficiently...hehehe....

Well, at least I manage to complete the Aviva Ironman 70.3 Singapore while working hard.

Till next available time! Ciao!

Project Ironman Steed!

2007-09-12T18:34:00.000+08:00

Ever since I am back in Singapore, I have been working really seriously about my race steed. Why? Coz I spend the last 1 month just to be stronger on my bike. I have been able to maintain a steady 35kmh to 40kmh comfortably. So, I need to go faster for the race day and at the same time to save my leg for the 21km run.

So What did I do?

Check This Out:

The Specification:

The Blackwell Research 50mm Carbon Clincher Wheels

700c Clincher
18* frt - 24* rear
Basault Braking Surface
645g Front / 895g Rear

The Result

The Race Ready Look!

Post Sabah!

2007-09-12T18:11:00.001+08:00

I know this had been long overdue but I guess if I don't put it down I will definitely forget totally about it.

Final Week Reflection:

I haven't been so overwhelmed for a while, but this is the week that I reflect and realised that God has been really speaking to me about issues that I have been escaping.

1) What is the purpose of my life?
2) What is my current state spiritually?
3) Who is God to me?

The Verdict

Well, I had forgotten to thank Him for who I am and I have forgotten to could my blessings and my purpose, I am kinda lost. I have no direction, I have forgotten my main purpose and that is to outreach to people and make disciples that I have totally forgot and I am not making any apology about spiritual word and statement here. I am first a Christian, a Child of God before anything else. I have a mission and that is to make disciples. Where is my Brother? I have to face it, for so many years that I have forgotten about that. I need to get back to it. Passionate of it!

Action

Go back to Singapore and Start doing what I have left behind and not let work overwhelmed me. I need to start getting back into Ministry work and not allowing the blessings of skills gone to waste! I need to make a comeback and draw on His strength to pull me through. I need to keep the spiritual throttle on!

New Shoes or Shoe Fetish!

2007-08-07T21:25:00.000+08:00

Some says that I have this thing about running shoes or should I say footwear. But I can't really help it. I burned shoes out here and there all the time and being someone who is an athlete and a guy who is the industry (Formerly managing products for a sports brand), what do you expect? I just love shoes. For a guys to have near 15 pairs of shoes is a lot. Ha!

Well, my new addition to my arsenal of shoes will be the Saucony Tangent 3. I have not try a pair of Saucony for a long long time and I guess I might as well pick one up. Can't wait for it. Well, I might just update my review after maybe a month of test running...Guru Talks again....Stay Tuned!

The Super Multi Vitamins!

2007-08-05T13:42:00.000+08:00

Well, what I have been taking multi-vitamins for a while for my training and really I must say that I really appreciate the importance of this stuff. I am really not a faithful believer of diet...hahaha....ask my colleagues and you will find out what I have for lunch. So, it is very very important for me to make it up especially when I am planning and training for the Ironman distance race. I don't wanna break down due to nutrition deficiency.

So, what did I do? See what the top athletes eat for training. I found out that when training becomes intense, you need sustain vitamins, nutrients and minerals to keep yourself going. After attending workshops and seminars, of course with videos and worldwide web. I found what I am looking for. A complete systems of nutrients that I need.

Used by Asafa Powell (World record holder for the 100m sprint, 9.77sec) and Liu Xiang (World record Holder for the 110m hurdles). Double X has
12 vitamins, 9 Minerals, and 17 plant Concentrates. I love it. This is one of the stuffs that I rather take than anything inferior. It's important to me as I am concern with the things that I take.

I don't know about you. I rather take what the pros are taking to make me feel good on recovery. It's only about S$69 to help me to eat well and recover well. Why not?

Paris Roubaix - Sabah Style

2007-08-02T21:55:00.000+08:00

Paris Roubaix (Men's In Tights and Mud)

Call it ridiculous or outrageous but that's just it. Every Cycling Buff would have heard of the ever notorious Paris Roubaix Bike Race where roadies hit this region in France for an one day hit in the muds, cobblestones and whole load of intense weather. That just it!

Hermit After the Ride

I got a taste of this style of cycling recently during one of the bad weather in Sabah, Potholes, muddy roads, cobblestone like road, granite chips road. You name it, Sabah has it and I am really beginning to regret of not bringing my Mountain Bike (Oh! I almost forgot I ain't got a Mountain Bike anymore).

Hermit's Rear Deraileur (Mud Patch)

The result is a whole load of muddy trails on the bike and I must say that Hermit is quite a steed that is able to take hard knocks and I am beginning to love this partner of mine. Of course the dirt and mud that hit my face make it even more interesting in my training.

Hermit's Seat tube in Mud

Shoes In Mud too!

Bottom line, learn to take bumps and be prepare to do the bunny hops and jumps when the hole comes in you face or you will have imprints or the tarmac gradients...Technical Riding 101: Learn to Eat dirt or prepare to bite the dust!

Sudden Lost!

2007-07-23T18:22:00.000+08:00

I got a very very bad news yesterday. Another friend or maybe just a person that I sometimes regard irritable and annoying but still I call him my friend has lose the battle with the notorious Dengue Fever and has passed on.

Ian, though our friendship are rather weird but I still regard you as friend. In fact, it really hit me as I have just lost a good friend who I love to debate with. Rest In Peace my friend as the Lord Will Rest Your Soul and be with Him, my beloved Brother!

Your Zeal and relentless drive to move the sports of Adventure Race will be remembered!