LIM FANG HAU (林方浩)

YES!! FINALLY I MANAGED TO ACHIEVE MY AMBITION

2007-12-26T02:50:00.000+08:00

Just want to share my journey to achieve my ambition i.e. to become an Accountant in Malaysia. It is not so easy for me but with determination I managed to achieve it.

I have this ambition to become an accountant since primary school. After secondary school back in 1996, my parents wanted me to enrol in Form 6 and sit for the STPM examinations. Even my cousin also encouraged me to enrol in Form 6 but I did not want to do so. I understand that my parents wanted me to obtain a university degree as they themselves did not have the opportunity to do so in their student’s life. I could still remember clearly how I argued and insisted that I did not want to go to university. To me a degree to survive is not needed. It was quite a heated argument until I cried in front of my parents. I put my final stand, i.e. “I don’t want to enrol in Form 6, and I don’t need a university degree. To me a degree is useless!!” I am going to become an accountant one day without a university education. I could understand my parents concern on the route of professional accountancy qualification. They were under the impression that if I could not complete the professional accountancy qualification (i.e. drop out halfway), I have nothing in hand as compared to completing an accounting degree. My cousin even advised me the same but I chose not to listen to their advice. I believe in myself. In life nothing is impossible.

There are a few reasons I decided not to enrol in Form 6 to enter the university:

1. I dislike Malay language. Although it is our national language, I was not so comfortable in using it as a medium of instruction for further studies even though I was educated in Malay language from primary school until secondary school.

2. I dislike doing coursework or assignment. I developed this kind of dislike when I was in secondary school. I prefer the education system for my further studies totally based on examinations (i.e. 100% exam-based) and no assignments.

3. I wanted an international accountancy qualification as compared to a local accounting degree, which is useless to me.

4. I wanted to study CIMA as I noticed my cousin also passed his CIMA final exams.

I asked my parents to support me to study for the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Diploma in Accounting in Eu Institute (located in Paramount Garden), which is within 3 minutes walking distance from my house. They agreed to support me financially. I started to study full time for my diploma in March 1998. At the same time most of my schoolmates enrolled in either Form 6 or college as an entry route to a degree. I look a bit weird and odd to my schoolmates as I chose not to go to university. I completed my LCCI Diploma in Accounting in May 1998. After completing my diploma, I registered myself with The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, UK (CIMA) as a Registered Student.

Why I chose CIMA and not other professional accountancy qualification ? I was attracted to the flexible credit accumulation system offered by CIMA from stage 1 to stage 3 and also the final stage. (Will describe about it in the next posting)

From July 1998 to November 1998, I studied full time for CIMA stage 1 (4 papers) in Systematic Business Training Centre in Kuala Lumpur (now known as SEGi college). I attempted the stage 1 examination in November 1998 and I passed all the 4 papers in the first attempt.

From January 1999 to May 1999, I studied full time for CIMA stage 2 in Systematic Business Training Centre in Kuala Lumpur. I only studied 3 papers leaving the Business and Company Law to the next sitting in November 1999. When the results were released, I passed all the 3 papers in stage 2 in the first attempt.

From July 1999 to November 1999, I studied full time for CIMA stage 3 (this time taking 2 papers) and Business and Company Law of stage 2 in Systematic Business Training Centre in Kuala Lumpur. I attempted 3 papers in November 1999. When the results were released, I passed the 2 papers and failed 1 paper i.e. Organisational Management and Development with 33 marks. It was very painful and heartbreaking to me when I failed this paper. I had wasted my parent’s money, as the exam fees were quite costly in £. I had to resit this paper again in May 2000.

I told myself that if I could not pass the rest of the papers in Stage 3, I would rather work full time and study part time to support myself rather than wasting my parent’s money. I studied full time for the remaining 2 papers in Systematic Business Training Centre in Kuala Lumpur and Systematic College in Petaling Jaya (i.e. 1 paper each in KL and 1 paper in PJ) and self studied for the Organisational Management and Development paper. In May 2000, I attempted the 3 remaining papers of stage 3. The results of the examination were not so encouraging. I passed the Financial Reporting paper in the first attempt but failed the other two papers. It was disappointed and heartbreaking to me, as my marks achieved for the 2 papers were 47 each, i.e. short of 3 marks to enable me to pass the exams.

From June 2000, I decided to work full time and study part time. I attended one of the papers of final level in the night class. For the remaining paper in intermediate level (i.e. stage 3), I studied myself. For the November 2000 sitting, I knew that this was the final sitting under the old syllabus and I had no choice but to pass the remaining 2 papers. Otherwise, I had to attend class again under the new syllabus. When my results were released in February, I was disappointed again. This time I passed 1 paper and failed 1 paper. What a painful moment as I wasted my hard earned money on the exams. I failed my Management Accounting Application paper for the second time and I scored the same marks of 47, i.e. short of 3 marks to pass the paper.

From February 2001 to April 2001, I attended the Management Accounting – Decision Making paper in FTMS Business School at Kuala Lumpur during the night class. In May 2001, I attempted this paper i.e. the only paper left in intermediate level. When the results were released, I felt quite relieved and happy as I finally passed this miserable paper with 51 marks. Thanks god. I could have failed this paper if there was no mistake made by the examiner in setting one of the multiple choice question. As a result, all the candidates who attempted that paper were awarded 2 bonus marks for the blunder made by the examiner.

I attended class for two final level papers i.e. 1 paper in Systematic College, PJ and the other paper in Systematic Business Training Centre in KL during the nights from July 2001 to October 2001. At the same time, I also self-studied one of the final level paper as I had attended the lectures earlier from July 2000 to November 2000. In November 2001, I attempted the final level papers (3 papers) for the first time. The results were disappointing when it was released late January 2002. I passed 1 paper but failed 2 papers. Those 2 papers I failed, I obtained marks of 44 and 45 respectively.

I asked myself how long more do I have to take the torture of working full time and studying part time. I could not afford to burden my parents anymore, as they are no longer working. They still need to support my younger brother and sister who were still studying. I could not quit my job, as I need money to pay for my subscription as a Registered Student and examination fees in £. I had no choice but to continue with this kind of stressful life i.e. no enjoyment or socialisation with friends. My study regime was quite strict, i.e. daily from Monday to Friday from 8.30 p.m. or 9 p.m. until 2.00 a.m. the next day. During the weekend, I would study the whole day to replace any loss time during the day due to working late. Sometimes, in order to release the tension, I would go for a quick jog around 30 minutes in the park on Sunday.

From January 2002 to April 2002, I attended the Management Accounting - Case Study paper in FTMS Business School in Kuala Lumpur during the nights. For the remaining 2 papers, I self-studied as I had attended the lectures earlier on. In May 2002, I attempted the final level for the second time. This time I attempted the remaining 3 papers. When the results were released, it was disappointing. I passed 1 paper but failed 2 papers. I failed the Management Accounting - Financial Strategy paper and the Management Accounting – Case Study paper scoring 47 and 46 marks respectively. This was the second time I failed my Financial Strategy.

I felt quite relief as I did not have to study more papers for the coming sitting as I had 2 outstanding papers left. For the 2 outstanding papers, I self-studied and attended the revision course. I attempted the remaining papers of the Final Level in November 2002. This was my third attempt for the final level. When the results were released in February 2003, I passed the remaining 2 Final Level papers. I was quite happy and satisfied as my miserable life as a part time student had ended. From then onwards, I was a Passed Finalist of CIMA.

I was considered lucky to have passed the exams as a part time student. One of the factors was an understanding employer. My employer was very understanding and allowed me time-off to attend classes even though it was a peak period. I was also given generous study leave of 1 week before the exams. Another factor was the distance of the office and my house was only 3 minutes walking distance. I did not need to waste my time travelling on the road. If coming home late at around 8 p.m. or 9 p.m., I could still spend a few hours studying since I did not have to waste time travelling on the road. One moment I could not forget in the examination hall was that I attempted my papers in November 2002 for the first time without wearing glasses i.e. with perfect vision as I went for the LASIK surgery in August and September 2002 to correct my shortsighted eyes.

After passing my exams, I continued working in the audit firm as audit senior for another 2 years until December 2004. From December 2005 until now I have been working in the corporate finance division of an investment bank in Kuala Lumpur. Actually, I have been neglecting my CIMA membership application for the past 5 years since I passed my final level exams.

Out of a sudden, in March 2007, I received a warning letter from CIMA requesting me to apply for CIMA membership by 30 September 2007 or risk myself being removed from the register of CIMA. I was quite busy with my works from March 2007 onwards. I could still manage to squeeze in some time in July to write my detailed practical experience for membership application. I started writing my practical experience on 7 July 2007 (07/07/07, a unique day). I managed to get it ready before 21 July 2007 to be reviewed by my consultant. I attended a feedback session organised by CIMA Malaysia Division whereby the honorary consultants would provide some feedback on the presentation of the detailed practical experience. I actually targeted to submit my application by 31 July 2007. At that time, CIMA was encouraging online submission which ended on 31 July 2007 by giving a huge discount of £53 on the membership application fee. By doing so, I could save £53 when submitting online (need to pay £60 as compared to post of £113).

My membership application has been reviewed by my proposers and seconders. Finally on 31 July 2007, I submitted the application online to CIMA. It took for more than one month for my proposers and seconders to vet through my detailed practical experience, as they were quite busy. Finally, on 15 October 2007, I was admitted as an Associate member of CIMA in which I only knew it a day after when I logged into CIMA website. I would like to dedicate this success to my parents, lecturers and especially my cousin who is also a CIMA Associate member and a role model to me.

On 5 November 2007, I submitted my application to the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA), the sole regulatory body for Accountants in Malaysia by virtue of having CIMA qualification.

It has been 2 months since I got my CIMA membership. It’s time for me to move on with my career and my qualification. Although I was quite stubborn when I was a teenager, I never regret my decision to pursue CIMA qualification. I will treasure this hard-earned qualification for the rest of my life.

Recently, on 17 December 2007, I just got to know that I was admitted as a Chartered Accountant of the MIA. At last I managed to achieve my ambition. My future CV is now complete. Time flies. It’s now the time for me to move on to new career.

My advice to those who are still studying professional accountancy qualification, do not ever give up easily. Believe in yourself. In life, nothing is impossible. It is never easy to pass a professional examination but it is not impossible to pass. When I was a Registered Student, I had heard people saying that there was a quota system for Malaysians in professional examination in Accountancy. Actually, I did not believe this. Whenever you failed an examination, there is always a reason behind it. I knew it because I experienced failing the professional exams before. There is no shortcut to success. It is all the hardwork that will get you through. Stayed focused on your studies and managed your time wisely. One day you will be able to achieve what you want if you put in your effort to pursue your ambition and goal.

15 APRIL 2007

2007-08-01T22:46:00.000+08:00

Orange Run

Location: The Curve, Damansara Perdana
Distance: 10.4 km
Timing: 58 min 4 sec

My brother (LIM FANG JUN)'s timing: 1 hr 14 min 40 sec

Decided to register for this run. Got free gift and goodies bag. Used this run as a physical fitness training ground for the Mt. Korbu & Gayong hiking trip in late April / early May. Ran all out for the entire distance but somehow rather, was coughing halfway. Maybe drank too much water.

Got extra bib. Pull my brother to join this run because of free gift and goodies bag. Not bad for my brother. Last time ran 10 km in Subang 10 km run in 2003 in 1 hr 30 min but this time managed to improve to 1 hr 14 min 40 sec. Not a runner but managed to finish 10 km. Only hiked before Mt. Kinabalu this year.

11 MARCH 2007

2007-08-01T21:49:00.000+08:00

SMART Tunnel Run

Distance = 13.3 km
Timing = 1 hr 53 min 57 sec
Location = Kuala Lumpur

Last minute decision to run. Very relax run to keep fit. Not in the mood to race. Ran without bib number. Just want to experience running inside the tunnel and snap some photos which will be posted in due course.

RECOVERY RUN

2007-05-06T22:29:00.000+08:00

Date: 6 May 2007
Time: 7.15 p.m.
Location: TTDI Park
Activity: Ran 6.5 km
Timing: 43 min 13.97 sec

Just came back from a 4 days hiking trip to Mt. Korbu and Mt. Gayong on 2 May 2007. Legs no longer feel sore, so decided to do a short run (missed the morning long run as it was raining). Felt quite comfortable and relief after the run. Still managed to clock the same timing as I have not been running in races for quite some time.

See you guys in the NB 15 km run. Just managed to collect the bibs and vests for my Penang friends and myself. For your information, my NB 15 km vest number is A149.

A RELAX RUN ON 26 APRIL 2007

2007-04-27T15:47:00.000+08:00

Sorry for not posting for quite some time. Was quite busy over the past few months.

I was running alone yesterday late morning due to raining in the morning. It was quite humid when running back to Bukit Aman and the day was getting hotter.

Date: 26 April 2007

Time: 11.00 a.m.

Activity: Relax running using reverse double hills route, Bukit Aman

Distance: 10.8 km

Timing: 1 hr 13 min 59.83 sec

Felt relief after the run.

ON TEMPORARY RETIREMENT FROM RACES

2007-01-08T00:45:00.000+08:00

Dear all my running / outdoor friends,

It is sad to announce that I am temporarily quitting races from now until the end of September 2007. I am not having any injury at all. I just want to quit temporarily and focused on something that I have been neglected for the past 4 years. It is time for me to take a break for my own good. I’ll definitely be back after September 2007. If possible, I may also be back before the end of September 2007 or whichever dates earlier. This will however depend on the circumstances.

Although I may not race, I’ll still run or do other activities (such as swimming, cycling or hiking) to keep myself fit. Whatever it is, I would like to wish you all good luck for your coming races and stay free from injury.

Happy running or enjoy your outdoor activities.

7 JANUARY 2007

2007-01-08T00:28:00.000+08:00

Location: TTDI Park, evening
Activity: Run 6.5 km outside the park and going up the hill and back to the park with backpack of 12 kg
Timing = 52 min+
Objective: To test my ability to carry heavy loads and to run under such condition
Result: No problem at all to run with backpack of 12 kg. Felt very much relief after the run as I managed to sweat heavily

Activity 2: Seat-up
Target = 30 times in 1 minute
Achieved = 30 times
Result = Passed
Seat-up gradation of fitness level = Good
Will try to increase the number of times per minute

Activity 3: Push-up
Achieved = 13 times in 1 minute (not on the ground but with the assistance of horizontal bars)
Result = Failed
Must try to do it on the ground and achieve a decent result before Chinese New Year.

6 JANUARY 2007

2007-01-08T00:16:00.000+08:00

Location: KLCC Park
Activity: Run 2 laps without MP3 player but with running shoe and casual attire (not for running)
Timing: 1st lap split = 6 min 1.57 sec
2nd lap split = 6 min 24.41 sec (only completed 1.1 km)
Total time = 12 min 25.98 sec
Total distance = 2.4 km
Target = To run 2.4 km under 12 minutes
Result = Failed
12 minutes running stamina = General
Next time must try to run 2.4 km within 12 minutes

Activity 2 = Seat up
Target = 30 times within 1 minute
Achieved = 28 times
Result = Failed
Sit-up assessment = General

Activity 3 = Push-up
Achieved = 15 times in 1 minute (not on ground but with assistance of horizontal bars)
Result = Failed
Must try to do it on the ground.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2007

2007-01-08T00:13:00.000+08:00

Just want to wish readers a happy new year 2007. It has been a long time I have not posted messages or updates in my blog. After Singapore marathon 2006, it was quite a hectic time for me. I was engaged in an urgent corporate assignment with tight deadlines. I did not manage to have time for running and had to comeback almost every Saturday and Sunday to work. To my horror, at certain days, I left the office at 3.30 a.m. just to complete my work to meet the tight deadlines.

How I celebrate new year 2007 ? Well, I had to come to the office to work. It was quite a stressful working days having to deal with uneasy and irritating working environment within the bank. I just could not believe what I have done to the office staff or colleagues from other department. I lost my temper and as a result I yelled, bang and hit the table and doors loudly just to release my anger and frustration to the extent that the entire 24th floor knows about it. It was not my intention to vent my anger at anyone and I just did not understand why I reacted that way. I was facing tremendous pressure from my immediate boss to deliver the compiled document to the other department and I was pissed off with the attitude of the administration staff that caused me to waste my precious time. As a result I vent my anger and frustration to the whole office. I could also feel some minor pain in my chest due to sudden rise in my blood pressure level.

Anyway, that was on 4 January 2007. After 5 January 2007, my nightmare of meeting tight deadlines was finally over. It was quite a relief for me. I missed out the KLIM Circuit Run I 2007 as I overslept (I left the office on 6 January 2007 at 1 a.m.). I wanted to run or go hiking on Sunday but I overslept.

SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL MARATHON 2006

2006-12-05T08:02:00.000+08:00

Date: 3 December 2006
Category: Open
Distance: 42.195 km
Timing: 5 hr 55 min 00.77 sec (Hand-timed, started more than 2 minutes late, official results not yet released)
2005: 5 hr 58 min 54 sec (Chip time)
2005: 5 hr 59 min 2 sec (Gun time)

Timing split: 10 km: 1 hr 6 min+
21 km: 2 hr 29 min+
30 km: 3 hr 59 min+
42.195 km: 5 hr 55 min 00.77 sec

Summary
1. Lack of mileage due to too much hiking activity after Penang Bridge Run 2006
2. Did not train hard for it as I find it not worth the effort. Last year, I trained very hard for it but all my hard work was wasted as my result was quite disappointing. Just aim to improve my last year timing.
3. I did not like the SIM this year. There were too many runners and had to zig-zag many runners at the first 10 km. Precious time already wasted.
4. Hit the wall at 23 km mark. First time experienced this in race, both knee cramps. Last year both my thighs cramp. Had to walk and run for the entire 19 km.
5. Went to toilet twice at the East Coast Park i.e. after 23 km due to drinking too much isotonic drink and water as I was afraid of getting muscle cramp later.
6. First toilet break, too many people. Wasted 5 minutes.
7. Second toilet break wasted 3 minutes.
8. Towards the last 1 km, running on the marble surface of the park, could not run as the condition was very slippery due to rain. Had to walk. For your information, the shoe (Adidas Supernova Control) I was wearing during the run had a mileage of approximately 2,136.01 km. Totally worn out when wearing to run. Now the shoe cannot be used when walking on marbled floor. If the floor is wet, I’ll slip. Had to throw away my shoe.
9. Coming back the last 100 metres, walk and run like a handi-capped person (“cacat”).
10. Overall, improved very little as compared to last year but the result is not up to expectation of an average runner.
11. Will try to improve myself but it will take quite some time as I currently have different outdoor activities.

10 INTERESTING FACTS ON MT. ULU SEPAT EXPEDITION

2006-11-27T03:17:00.000+08:00

1. First time into the remote areas of the Titiwangsa range. Ulu Sepat summit is located in the Titiwangsa range. The starting point is located at Kampung Lelar. Kampung Lelar can only be communicated via Lasah or Gerik. If coming from Lasah, it is by 3 hours 4-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle on the muddy logging trek. If coming from Gerik, it is by a 45-minute drive to Pengkalan Trojen. Then take a 1.5 to 2 hrs boat ride to Pos Kemar. Later, take 30 to 45 minutes 4WD to Kampung Lelar. The journey will pass by the muddy logging trek.

2. Teamwork. For any expedition to be successful there is a need to have good teamwork. Without good teamwork, the expedition would not be a success. Do not try to split or be away from the main group as it will invite unnecessary problems or situations if your team is unlucky.

3. Watch out your steps. When going up a steep slope, one must watch out his or her steps carefully. Please be extra careful when holding on to the tree roots when climbing or going up the steep slope. Some tree roots are not stable and strong. Make sure you hold on to the strong roots to assist you in climbing up the steep slope.

4. The least climbed peak. From the internet sources, this peak is one of the least climbed in Peninsular Malaysia (besides Chammah) due to its remoteness.

5. Advisable to employ guide. It is advisable to have guide for the whole expedition. This is to prevent the team from getting lost in the jungle or heading towards the wrong direction.

6. Last water point. This place is located 3 hours before the summit. In order to reach this place, you have to pass through Lanweng campsite (most hikers use it as a base for overnight before continuing the next day) and cross the river. After crossing the river, majority of the route is uphill until the last water point. There is an empty bottle on your right to indicate the last water point. It takes 15 minutes to go down to collect water and 15 minutes to go up. The route down to collect water is steep.

7. Y-junction. Approximately 40 minutes before reaching the summit, you will be able to see a Y-junction. The left direction (blocked by tree roots) will lead you to Chammah. This is the route used by those who are coming down from Chammah, i.e. the Trans Chammah – Ulu Sepat expedition. The right direction will lead you to Ulu Sepat.

8. No leach. The entire journey to Ulu Sepat peak, you will not be able to encounter leach. You will encounter sand fly (depending on season) and bees. Use incense set or mosquito coil to get rid of bees. Bees will stay away from you if you light up these two items.

9. Blocked view. The view from the summit may not be as nice as there are trees blocking the view for those wishing to snap sunset or sunrise photos.

10. Unique tree. On the summit, there is a tall and thin tree. This tree is the official mark of the Ulu Sepat peak. Remember to have snap some photos of the trees before leaving the peak or sleep next to the tree if you are planning to camp overnight (if other team members allow you to do so). You are prohibited from spoiling, destroying or chopping any part of the tall and thin tree.

MT. ULU SEPAT (31 AUGUST 2006 TO 3 SEPTEMBER 2006) - FINAL PART

2006-11-23T02:32:00.000+08:00

3 September 2006

Woke up at time 0700 hrs for breakfast. After breakfast, we packed our stuffs for departure to Gerik. The 4WD driver was supposed to come to pick us up at time 0800 hrs. This did not materialise. We had to wait until approximately time 0930 hrs for the 4WD driver to arrive. We kissed goodbye to Kg. Lelar and other group and hope that we would be able to meet them one day. Our 4WD passed through the bumpy logging trek and we arrived at the Pos Kemar jetty at approximately time 1000 hrs. Fifteen minutes later our boat arrived. We left Pos Kemar for Pengkalan Trojen. Before reaching halfway, our boat engine encountered some problem due to insufficient fuel. The boat had to be slowly diverted back to Pos Kemar for repair. Approximately at time 1050 hrs, the boat driver managed to overcome the engine problem. We departed for Pos Kemar. Along the way, we snapped some pictures of the scenic view of Temenggor lake. At approximately time 1145 hrs, we finally arrived at Pengkalan Trojen. Our van driver, Hussien waited for us at the marine police station. We departed from Pengkalan Trojen to Gerik. We arrived at Hussien’s house at time 1230 hrs to retrieve our car. Later we had our lunch at a restaurant in Gerik town called 新江酒楼*. After lunch, we left Gerik at time 1420 hrs. We took a break at Tapah R & R at approximately time 1545 hrs. We reached Petaling Jaya at approximately time 1800 hrs.

Although this was the first time hiking at Ulu Sepat, I note that this mountain was quite manageable in terms of physical fitness and condition of the trail. Overall, this was my third time joining the overnight backpacking trip. It was quite fun, memorable and enjoyable. I was quite satisfied especially when reaching the summit, camping at the summit, snapping sunset photos and working as a team together to achieve our unfulfilled objective. If I were to be given a chance, I love revisit this mountain again, most probably going through Lasah via 4WD instead of Gerik (via van, boat and 4WD). Hopefully, there is an opportunity for me to revisit this mountain again in the future.

Stay tune for 10 interesting facts on my hiking trip to Ulu Sepat.

Note:
* I have to apologise as I had forgotten the English name of the seafood restaurant. The seafood was quite delicious and it is recommended to have lunch or dinner there especially after coming down from Ulu Sepat.

MT. ULU SEPAT (31 AUGUST 2006 TO 3 SEPTEMBER 2006) PART 3

2006-10-27T15:40:00.000+08:00

2 September 2006

Woke up at time 0330 hrs. Heard some noise from the next campsite on the summit. Did not know what they were doing in the early hours of the morning (noisy). Decided to continue sleeping as it was raining. Woke up at time 0645 hrs to witness the sunrise but had no mood to do so as it was still raining. It had been raining since midnight. The temperature was around 16 degrees Celsius. Decided to continue sleeping until time 0730 hrs.

Woke up at time 0730 hrs to have breakfast. After breakfast, started to pack up. Descended from the summit at time 0930 hrs. At approximately time 1100 hrs, we reached the last water point. Took a short break before continuing the descend. On the way descending down, I accidentally hurt my right finger, as I was not careful when holding the tree roots with thorns. My right thumb was bleeding and it was near the river. So I decided to hold on to it until I cross the river near Lanweng campsite. Had to apply some anti-septic cream and plaster from my personal first aid kit. Had a quick lunch near the river and collected the rubbish that was left over by us on 31 August 2006 before continuing at time 1250 hrs.

Later we dropped by Emat’s grand parents hut for a short break. Continued our journey. As we were approaching the native village, it was raining heavily. The trail was slippery and I had slipped many times. Others were moving quite fast and I was moving at a slower pace due to insufficient food intake during lunch. I was feeling quite hungry and my right toe was hurting when hiking downwards. I told myself that I should not push myself as the native village was getting nearer and safety was the most important issue. At one point, I felt like cursing the condition of the jungle. It was quite slippery and uncomfortable but I had to respect the jungle no matter how harsh the condition was. At approximately time 1615, we managed to reach the native village. Felt tired and hungry after the hike. The other group of hikers arrived at time 1720 hrs. We had our dinner at time 1900 hrs and supper later.

We exchanged some leftover food with the other group. After dinner, we mingled around with the other group to listen to their Trans Chammah – Ulu Sepat hiking journey. Slept at time 2200 hrs at the native village.

Stay tune for final part of the report.

MT. ULU SEPAT (31 AUGUST 2006 TO 3 SEPTEMBER 2006) PART 2

2006-10-11T00:43:00.000+08:00

1 September 2006

Woke up at time 0645 hrs to have our breakfast. After breakfast, did some cleaning up and clearing the camping area. Left some wet clothes and rubbish hanging at the campsite as we will be back tomorrow to collect it.

At time 0845 hrs, we left Lanweng campsite. Had to cross the river before the ascend started. From here onwards, it was all the way up to the summit. The steepness of the trail was around 40 to 50 degrees. At certain point, had to cross over the fallen tree and hold on to the tree roots. Some of the tree roots were not solid and had to be very careful when holding on to it.

At time 1030 hrs, we reached the open area where the first false peak and Ulu Sepat peak could be viewed. Later reached the last water point 10 minutes later. I did not manage to follow the others down to get the water as I got lost half way. The trail downwards to get the water was steep. Luckily, I have sufficient water for usage. According to Lam, it took them 10 minutes to go down to get the water and another 10 minutes up. At time 1110 hrs, we continued hiking. At time 1225 hrs, we reached the beautiful mossy forest. I really love this kind of unspoilt nature of Ulu Sepat. There were pitcher plants and other beautiful flora around. The trek at certain point was quite muddy. I could feel it as we were almost reaching the summit. The sky was getting brighter and brighter. We passed by a few false peak. At time 1325 hrs, we reached the Y-junction. If you take the left turn which was purposely blocked by tree roots, it will lead you to Mt. Chammah. So our guide led us to the right turn. From here onwards, the trek was really muddy. The mud can go up to around 30 cm from your foot. You may even loose your hiking shoe in the mud. We had to walk on the side way at certain point to avoid the deep mud. When getting nearer to the summit, we bumped into another group of hikers from B. P. Guild coming down from the summit. They hike up the summit with their light backpack and hike down to Lanweng campsite for overnight before descending to Kampung Lelar the next day.

Finally, at time 1404 hrs, I was the first one to reach the summit of Ulu Sepat with the guide. The others arrived a few minutes later. There were bees flying around us. We lighted the incense and mosquito coil to keep the bees away. The view on the summit was blocked by trees and vegetation. The summit can accommodate 4 tents. We set up our flysheet besides the small standing tree whereby the sign board of Mt. Ulu Sepat was hanging around. Since it was one day after the National Day, we decided to tie our flag (Jalur Gemilang) on the tree.

Rested for a few hours before started to help out in cooking dinner. At approximately time 1710 while helping out to cook dinner, a group of hikers of 7 from FYC and 2 guides arrived. They were on their way down from Mt. Chammah, i.e. hiking the Trans Chammah - Ulu Sepat trail. The first one to arrive was Ghee Beng with a guide. Ghee Beng was shirtless when hiking. Evanna, Miow Chin’s friend, was also in the FYC group. There were scars as a result of cuts from tree thorns around his body. The pace of the FYC group was quite fast. The first and the last persons distance was 30 minutes away.

I managed to witness the sunset on the summit of Mt.Ulu Sepat. This was the first time for me witnessing the sunset on the mountain summit. The view of the sunset was magnificent and wonderful. After dinner, we had Ginseng soup. The weather at night as cold with temperature falling to less than 20 degrees Celsius. Later at around time 2200 hrs we slept.

Stay tune for Part 3 of the report.

MT. ULU SEPAT (31 AUGUST 2006 TO 3 SEPTEMBER 2006) PART 1

2006-09-19T02:06:00.000+08:00

First of all, I would like to thank Kam Meng on the information on this Ulu Sepat trip and some advice and information given before the trip . This was my first hiking experience to one of the 7th highest summit in Peninsular Malaysia (G7 summit). Initially I was not supposed to be in the team hiking to Mt. Ulu Sepat. Due to some members pulling out approximately 2 weeks before the trip, there were some vacancies. I was informed by Kam Meng on this trip via email 2 days before the hiking trip to Mt. Swettenham on 19 August 2006.

Location: Perak
Height: 2,161 metres (7,091 feet), 7th highest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia and the least climbed G7 summit.
Number of participants: 5
Participants list:
1. Lam Wai Seak (Captain)
2. Ong Siew Chin (Tiger)
3. Jeremy Tan
4. Wong Ken Tat
5. Lim Fang Hau

Equipment:
1. Torch light
2. Gloves
3. Backpack
4. Hiking boots
5. Slippers
6. Whistle
7. Penknife
8. Mess tin
9. Fork & spoon
10. Digital camera
11. Raisin (for extra energy)
12. Solid fuel
13. Clothes for 4 days 3 nights
14. Toiletries
15. Deuter pouch
16. Small knapsack
17. Sleeping mat
18. Sleeping bag
19. Wind breaker
20. Sweater
21. Poncho (rain coat)
22. 500 ml isotonic drink
23. 4 litres of water
24. Extra plastic bags
25. Stationeries
26. First aid kit
27. Flag (Jalur Gemilang)

30 August 2006

Departed from Petaling Jaya at time 2145 hrs for Gerik via the PLUS Expressway. In my mind, I was wondering whether I could reach the G7 summit as this was my first time going to the G7 summit. I was the youngest member and the least experienced hikers among the 5 members. All the 4 members had in the past reached other G7 summit but none of us had reached the Ulu Sepat summit.

31 August 2006 (National day)

Reached Gerik at time 0105 hrs. Checked in into Rome motel, located next to Maybank, in front of the only traffic light in Gerik. Hap supper at nearby a Malay stall and later bathed. Slept at time 0230 hrs.

Woke up at time 0700 hrs and checked out of Rome motel. Our van driver, Hussien, was waiting for us in front of the motel. Tiger went to the police station to lodge a report but was unable to do so as the officer in charge was not around. We just proceeded without the permit issued by the police.

Had our breakfast at a stall located 5 minutes drive from the motel. Packed some Indian vegetarian food for lunch. Reached Hussien’s house to park our car at time 0841 hrs. Later departed from Hussien’s house to Temenggor Lake. Reached Pengkalan Trojan, which is nearby Temenggor Lake at time 0945 hrs. There was a floating police station manned by 3 staff. We managed to lodge a police report before proceeded. We left the jetty at time 1010 hrs by boat to Pos Kemar. At time 1110, we reached Pos Kemar. We had to wait for approximately 1.5 hours for our 4-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle to arrive.

We passed by Kampung Rantau before reaching Kampung Lelar at time 1340hrs. We had our lunch first. We met another group of hikers of 10 from B.P. Guild. They drove all the way by 4WD from Lasah. We unpacked those non-essential items i.e. items required for the last day of the trip at Kampung Lelar. Our guide was Emat, engaged for RM60/- a day and we shall provide him with food and accommodation. I was assigned to carry some food for the first day cooking at the campsite. Other equipment was carried by Emat.

We left Kampung Lelar at time 1400 hrs. Approximately after 15 minutes, we crossed a steam. Approximately 15 minutes later, we crossed a small stream. Later we entered into a big bamboo forest. The route was uphill and down hill with a gradient of around 45 to 50 degrees. Five minutes later, we crossed a narrow bridge. We met up with a member of the B.P. Guild and a guide who was left behind from the main group. We took a short break before continuing our journey. At 1530 hrs, we crossed a small stream. Ten minutes later, we crossed a small narrow bridge. Then, it started to rain heavily. We had to put on our raincoat / poncho. The surface was slippery when raining. The trail at certain path was narrow. I passed by the most dangerous stretch (from my own observation) whereby the path was narrow (can only be crossed by 1 person only) and slippery. I had to lean against the hill slope on my right and hold on to the tree roots and hill slope to cross the slippery stretch. If you are not careful, you may slip down the bamboo forest (approximately 10 metres deep). Our pace was slowed down by heavy rain.

At time 1720 hrs, we crossed a narrow bridge. At time 1740 hrs, we passed by 3 native houses belonging to Emat’s grandparents. At approximately 1800 hrs, we reached the first campsite. It was still raining at that time. We camped overnight near the river. The rain stopped during the night but it was cold at night. The night temperature can drop to 16 degree Celsius. Slept at time 2200 after having some supper.

Stay tune for Part 2 of the report.

Ulu Sepat乌鲁士拔峰 2006 Day 4 photos (3/9/2006)

2006-09-13T01:13:00.000+08:00

Fang Hau with Ghee Beng, last photo before leaving Kg. Lelar (Time 0935 hrs)
Temenggor lake view 6 (Time 1017 hrs)
Pengkalan Trojen, here we come (Time 1143 hrs)

For more photos, please visit ths link at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jasonlfh/my_photos

and select album Ulu Sepat 31/8/2006, Ulu Sepat 1/9/2006, Ulu Sepat 2/9/2006 & Ulu Sepat 3/9/2006. Detailed report will follow in due course.

Ulu Sepat乌鲁士拔峰 2006 Day 3 photos (2/9/2006)

2006-09-11T08:22:00.000+08:00

Entrance to the last water point (Time 1101 hrs)
Lam at the summit tree (Time 0920 hrs)

Ulu Sepat乌鲁士拔峰 2006 Day 2 photos (1/9/2006)

2006-09-11T07:53:00.000+08:00

Summit photo 2 (Time 1408 hrs)
Trail to Mt. Chammah (Time1325 hrs)
Sunset view 12 at the summit (Time 1920 hrs)

Ulu Sepat乌鲁士拔峰 2006 Day 1 photos (31/8/2006)

2006-09-11T07:52:00.000+08:00

Temenggor dam retention wall (Time 1017 hrs)
Boat cleaning by marine police (Time 0937 hrs) at Pengkalan Trojen

MT. ULU SEPAT PHOTOS NOT UPLOADED TO ALBUM

2006-09-08T00:47:00.000+08:00

I love this view (unspoilt nature & mossy forest of Ulu Sepat) [1/9/2006, time 1328 hrs]

Mossy forest of Ulu Sepat (1/9/2006, time 1329 hrs)
Ken Tat taking careful steps to avoid the muddy trail [1/9/2006, time 1329 hrs]
Interesting way to celebrate our national day on 1/9/2006 with the flags [From left: Fang Hau, Lam, Jeremy, Ken Tat & Tiger (Time 1413 hrs)]
Evanna (right) & friends and Ghee Beng (left). [Another group of hikers on the summit on 2/9/2006 (Time 0918 hrs)]

Ulu Sepat乌鲁士拔峰 2006 (Mr. Lam's hiking notes)

2006-09-07T08:30:00.000+08:00

Participants :
1) Lam Wai Seak(016-2025528)
2) Tiger Ong Siew Chin(019-2126143)
3) Jeremy Tan(012-2681268)
4) Jason Lim Fang Hau(012-2478525)
5) Wong Ken Tat(016-4384877)

30Aug2006(Wed)
2142 Depart from Tiger’s house at Uptown

31Aug2006(Thu)
0102 Checked in Rome Hotel(05-7912242), which is just next to Maybank(in front of the only traffic light) at Gerik. Paid RM85 for two 3-men rooms
0725 Checked out Rome Hotel. Hussein(019-4209718) with his blue van(ABS 2523) was waiting.
0730 Tiger went to Police Station to lodge report but was told OCPD was on leave & unable to issue permit. We just proceed.
0740 Took breakfast at a hawker center which is just 5 minutes drive from the hotel
0841 Reached Hussein’s house & parked our cars there
0850 Left his house(125m[1]) for Pengkalan Trojan at Temenggor Lake
0924 Reached Pengkalan Trojan(225m), which is nearby Temenggor Dam. There is a floating police station manned by about 3 staff. A few van operators were waiting for passengers
1010 The boat, which manned by Hussein’s son arrived
1016 Left the jetty & sailed along the dam(225m)
1022 Elevation 225m
1108 Reached the jetty(225m) at Pos Kemar. The 4WD not yet arrive.
1243 The 4WD arrived & proceed
1313 Passed by Kg Rantau
1324 Elevation 465m
1339 Reached Kg Lerlar(465m). Met another group of 10 from B.P. Guild, who droved 3 units 4WD from Lasah[2], Sg Siput Utara just arrived. They claimed it took about 4 hours drive & the road surface is not good. They only aimed for Ulu Sepat. A senior guide, Adi was registering the participants. We engaged a guide, Emat, for RM60/day. We shall provide shelter & food for him along the trip & he carried some of our stuff. We also keep some stuff at Adi’s house.
1357 Left Kg Lerlar
1414 Crossed a stream
1427 Crossed a wooden bridge
1452 Crossed a small stream(635m)
1500 Entered big bamboo foreste
1505 Crossed a narrow bridge. Elevation 685m
1506 Took a break. Met a member & a guide from the group of 10, who was left behind from the main group
1532 Crossed a small stream(740m)
1541 Crossed a narrow bridge. Elevation 770m. It started to rain
1717 Crossed a narrow bridge. Elevation 985m
1740 Passed by 3 native houses, which are belonged to Emat’s grand parents
1746 Reached Lanweng Camp(1060m), beside the Lanweng river. It was still raining. Total tracking time is 3h49m. Midnight temperature could reach 16.3°C & lower

01Sept2006(Fri)
0845 Left Lanweng Camp(1040m)
0846 Crossed Lanweng river
1026 Elevation 1545m
1029 Reached a small open area where could view the false peak & Ulu Sepat peak
1037 Elevation 1555m
1041 Reached a flat area(1555m) where is the last water source. We have to descend for about 10 minutes to reach a stream for water(1505m)
1110 Continued tracking
1120 Elevation 1555m
1150 Elevation 1735m
1159 Elevation 1765m
1221 Elevation 1880m
1225 Entered beautiful mossy forest(1890m). There are pitcher plants & other flora
1233 Elevation 1925m
1238 Elevation 1950m
1251 Came across some pitcher plants(1960m)
1323 Reached a Y junction(2095m) where left turn to Chamah. We took right turn
1338 Elevation 2095m
1344 Elevation 2090m
1203 Reached the peak(2095m). Official height is 7091ft/2161m
1710 Another group of 7 from FIC, plus 2 guides arrived. They came to Kg Lerlar from Lasah. They ascend to Chamah, then cross to Ulu Sepat, before back to Kg Lerlar. 4WD from Lasah to Kg Lerlar costs RM800

02Sept2006(Sat)
0013 It started to rain. Temperature could drop to 14.1°C
0927 Descend from the peak(2085m). The track along the mossy forest was very muddy after yesterday night rain
1055 Reached the last water source(1560m) & had a break
1107 Left the last water source(1535m)
1125 Elevation 1405m
1130 Elevation 1340m
1135 Elevation 1280m
1145 Elevation 1190m
1152 Elevation 1130m
1156 Elevation 1110m
1200 Elevation 1095m
1205 Elevation 1075m
1212 Crossed Lanweng river(1030m) & reached the Lanweng campsite(1020m)
1242 Left Lanweng campsite(1030m)
1244 Crossed a small stream
1250 Dropped by Emat’s grand parents huts.
1302 Left the huts(1050m)
1320 Crossed a stream(965m)
1324 Crossed a small stream(950m)
1326 Elevation 950m
1330 Crossed a single logged bridge(945m)
1340 Crossed a small stream(940m)
1344 Elevation 940m
1352 Elevation 930m
1359 Elevation 930m
1404 Reached a flat area(915m) & took a break
1215 Elevation 830m
1418 Crossed a stream(805m)
1422 Tracking through huge bamboo forest(795m)
1425 Crossed a river(785m)
1430 Crossed a stream through single logged bridge
1434 Crossed a river
1438 Reached a campsite(780m)
1441 Crossed a stream(780m)
1443 Crossed a small stream(780m)
1446 Elevation 775m
1448 Crossed a wooded bridge(775m)
1454 Elevation 755m
1456 Elevation 750m
1457 Crossed a stream(750m)
1500 Elevation 735m
1503 Elevation 730m
1507 Elevation 715m
1509 Elevation 705m
1512 Crossed a small stream(700m)
1513 Crossed a wooden bridge(700m)
1516 Elevation 670m
1532 Elevation 590m
1541 Crossed a bridge(550m). It started to rain
1548 Elevation 545m
1552 Crossed a small stream
1553 Reached the T junction(510m) where we took right up to Kg Lerlar
1606 Elevation 480m
1609 Reached Kg Lerlar(495m)
1610 Reached Adi’s son house for overnight, at RM20/night. Dawn temparature around 23.7°C

03Sept2006(Sun)
0938 The 4WD arrived & we left Kg Lerlar(420m)
0941 Passed by Kg Rantau
0950 Passed by a grocery shop
1006 Reached the jetty(235m)
1013 Left the jetty(230m)
1032 The boat engine out of order & back to jetty for repair(220m)
1053 Left the jetty(225m) again
1134 Elevation 235m
1145 Reached Pengkalan Trojan(235m). Hussein is wating for us
1230 Reached Hussein’s house(135m) at Gerik
1300 Lunch with Shum Koon Sang(019-4641210) at 新江酒楼, Gerik(140m)
1424 Left Gerik(155m)
1544 Took a break at Tapah R&R
1800 Reached Tiger’s house at Uptown
[1] Elevation reading by Lam’s Casio ProTrek PRG-90. Reading from the site shall be highlighted
[2] There is a 4WD operator calls Lee Loy Hee(05-5911257) at 53, Kg Lasah, 31100 Sg Siput Utara, who provide 4WD service to Yong Yap, Chamah & Ulu Sepat

FREE & EASY HIKE AT MT. SWETTENHAM ON 19 AUGUST 2006

2006-09-06T13:42:00.000+08:00

Dear all,

Sorry for not updating for quite some time. It has been quite a busy month in August 2006. To view my photos for the day trip, please go to this link http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jasonlfh/my_photos

and select album 2006-09-03 (MT. SWETTENHAM) and 2006-09-03 (MT. SWETTENHAM 2).

ROUTE SURVEY 2 ON 13 AUGUST 2006

2006-08-14T08:00:00.000+08:00

Starting point = Bukit Aman car park
Ending point = Bukit Aman car park

Bukit Aman car park to Petronas station in Sri Hartamas = 9.76 km (via Bank Negara Malaysia route)
Petronas station in Sri Hartamas covering 1 big loop used in Pacesetters 30 km practice run = 0.86 km
Petronas station in Sri Hartamas to Inland Revenue Board office and covering 1 big loop used in Pacesetters 30 km practice run = 4.48 km
Traffic light junction in front of Inland Revenue Board office to Petronas station in Sri Hartamas = 3.55 km
1 big loop at Petronas station in Sri Hartamas = 0.85 km
Petronas station in Sri Hartamas to Jalan Duta roundabout i.e. after crossing the roundabout = 4.21 km
Jalan Duta roundabout to Bukit Aman car park via Bank Negara Malaysia route = 5.43 km

Total distance covered = approximately 29.14 km

6 AUGUST 2006

2006-08-14T01:00:00.000+08:00

Activity: Free and easy hike at Mt. Datuk
Height: 843 metres
Location: Rembau, Negeri Sembilan
Who: Lim Fang Hau, Lee Yin Fook and Ng Ping Loong

My initial plan was to go to Nuang with Fook. Since Loong wanted to go to Datuk and Fook and Loong have not been to Datuk, I decided to change the plan to Datuk instead of Nuang. The hike started at time 0942 by crossing the first river. Our first target was the 1st shelter. Since I led the way, I decided to set a faster pace for them to follow. Both of them could follow my pace without much problem. It took us 38 minutes to reach the first shelter. At the first shelter, I decided to give them 5 minutes break before asking them to continue. The trail to the first shelter was dry.

Our next target was the campsite. We took 43 minutes to reach the campsite. In total we took 1 hr 26 min to reach the campsite. The time taken was less than our travelling time from Kuala Lumpur. At the campsite, there were huge rocks leading up to Mt. Datuk. We climbed up the rocks and I reach the first part of the rocks. There was a ladder in front. I did not climb the ladder when I was here on 23/7/2006 with Kam Meng. This time I decided not to climb the ladder and I told them to be extra careful when climbing up the ladder. After watching Fook and Loong going up the ladder, I had my lunch.

It was almost 12 noon and I was wondering what had happen to Loong and Fook. Why were they still not coming down as I was watching other group of climbers coming down. This time I decided to go up to see what had happened to them. I had to climb the rocks and the ladder myself slowly as I had height phobia. Finally, I managed to go up. There was another ladder to climb. This was much easier than the first one. When reaching the summit, the path to go through in between the rocks i.e. after the ladder was quite narrow. Finally, I managed to meet Fook and Loong on the summit. They were actually enjoying the view from the summit with other group of climbers. The view at the summit was quite nice but it was hazy that day.

At time 1316 we departed from the campsite to the office. This time instead of me leading the way, I decided to be the anchorman i.e. to stay behind to watch their footsteps. To my surprise, Fook’s pace when going down was quite fast as a regular hiker. I one point I had to run with extra caution as not to slip, in order to follow Fook. We reached the office at time 1419. It took us 1 hr 3 min to reach the office from the campsite.

I was on the summit on 1/11/2005 but did not manage to snap photos. One week before Penang, I was with Kam Meng but I did not climb the rocks to the summit. At last, on 6/8/2006, I managed to snap some photos including myself from the summit.

MT. DATUK PHOTOS ON 6 AUGUST 2006

2006-08-08T07:38:00.000+08:00

With Yin Fook and Pin Loong
Not so difficult to climb
View from the summit (misty day)
View from the summit (clear day)
Dangerous stretch (coming down)

Finally, I managed to overcome my height phobia to conquer the challenges to climb the huge rocks near the summit campsite. For more photos please click this link http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jasonlfh/my_photos and select album 2006-08-06

Stay tune for detailed report.

PENANG BRIDGE INTERNATIONAL MARATHON 2006 DETAILED REPORT

2006-08-08T00:24:00.000+08:00

This is my sixth full marathon. The race started at time 0400 in front of Sek. Keb. Sg. Gelugor. Started with a slow and relaxed pace. Later increasing my running pace. The weather was fine and cooling. Passed by the 5 km mark and 10 km mark in 28 min+ and 1 hr+. Noticed that my timing split had dropped from 57 min+ in KLIM to 1 hr. Just tried to continue running at my usual pace. The weather condition at the bridge was quite cooling and windy. When running towards Butterworth, I was running against the wind direction. I was surprised with this kind of weather condition.

Ran passed the 15 km mark in 1 hr 33 min+. Tried to increase my pace but I found it quite difficult to do so. The wind was blowing against the direction I was running. My split time for 20 km mark was 2 hr 6 min+. I was feeling fine and my target of achieving a sub- 5 hr timing was still within my reach. At 22.5 km mark, my timing split was 2 hr 25 min+. I stopped for 10 minutes to fix my MP 3 player (ran out of battery). After that, I ran at a faster pace to catch up with the lost time. My timing split for 25 km was 2 hr 52 min+. I knew that in order to do a sub-5 hr timing, I had to maintain the consistent current pace. The route after 25 km mark was running on the Bayan Lepas highway. The stretch was quite long. I was asking myself when I will reach the 30 km mark. By 30 km mark, my timing split was 3 hr 29 min+. It was 12 min off my KLIM 2006 timing split of 3 hr 12 min+. It was quite normal as I had earlier on lost 10 minutes due to stopping at the water station. When almost approaching 32.5 km mark, the runners were required to make a u-turn. After 32.5 km mark, the weather was getting hotter and hotter. My body was sweating profusely. Whenever I reach any water station (with or without sponging), I just splash the water on my head as I could not bear with the hot sun in Penang. This was even hotter than in KL.

After running 4 hr 3 min+, I had covered 35 km. Still have 7.195 km mare to go. My sub-5hr target seemed to be possible. I just tried to increase my pace. Before 37.5 km mark, my feet started to feel very sore and tired. This slowed down my pace. When reached 37.5 km mark, my timing split was 4 hr 24 min+. After this point, my right leg began to experience some pain (i.e. sign of cramp) on my calf muscle. The weather was getting hotter and hotter from the blazing sun of Penang. My body system could not adapt to this kind of weather. I was sweating like hell. I had less than 5 km to go. I had to reduce my pace i.e. to jog slowly to prevent cramp. I kept on asking where is USM. The distance seemed to be quite long in my mind. The remaining distance was quite torturing for me due to my body condition and the hot weather. When reaching 40 km mark, my timing split was 4 hr 46 min+. Later the runners had made a u-turn after the 40 km mark. After 40 km mark, my pace was quite slow. With only 1 more km to go, there was quite a number of walkers (must be those running the half marathon) coming back. As usual, I would run as fast as I could to the finishing line. This time I decided not to torture my self as there it was useless to do so since the sub-5 hr timing had almost elapsed. Just decided to jog at a slower pace back to prevent my legs from getting cramp.

When almost reaching the finishing line, I just sprinted to the finishing line. I managed to finish it in 5 hr 2 min 25.52 sec. After reaching the finishing line and collecting my finisher medal, I could feel the effect of dehydration on my body. I was yelling for the water as I walk around the field. I managed to find the refreshment tent on the opposite site of the finishing line. I just grabbed an isotonic drink after giving away the coupon. After drinking the isotonic drink I just lied down in the tent on the carton boxes as the effect of dehydration was terrible. I had to lie down for around 15 minutes and managed to chat with some runners.

After that my stomach was not feeling well. I had no mood to enjoy the food and drinks. After chatting with some runners, I decided to return to the rest house in USM as my stomach was not feeling well. When walking up the hill, I was feeling like wanted to faint but luckily there was a kind runner (half marathon) by the name of Baljit to accompany me until the turning road to the rest house as I was walking very slow.

Luckily the race started at 4 am. Othewise my suffering would even be worse. Quite a tough race as I had to fight with the hot weather condition i.e. the blazing sun of Penang. In KL, the sun was not that hot as compared to Penang. Overall, the race was organised in a moderate way. There was sufficient water and sponging stations for runner i.e. after 2.5 km after the 5 km mark. There was not any Powergel provided. Luckily I had two packets of Porwergel for consumption at 20 km mark and 30 km mark. The view on the Penang bridge was just magnificient and wonderful. I could witness the sunrise while running on the bridge. I love this kind of scenery and I shall return next year.

PJ HALF MARATHON 2006 - MY HARD EARNED CERTIFICATE

2006-08-05T23:33:00.002+08:00

I just received my certificate. This is my best timing in the half marathon since I started running in June 2004. It is never easy to achieve sub-2 hr timing. From next year onwards, this run will be known as PJ International Marathon 2007 and it will be held on 28 January 2007. Since started running the PJ Half Marathon 2004 until 2006, I had only came back empty handed once.

My past results are as follows:

2004: 2 hr 15 min 40 sec (Missed the finisher certificate by 40 sec) (Distance: 19.5 km)

2005: 2 hr 9 min 3 sec (Position: 176th) (Certificate of completion & medal)

2006: 1 hr 59 min 39 sec (Position: 150th) (Certificate of merit & medal)

My next aim is to get the certificate of distinction. The question of when will I get the certificate of distinction will be known on 28/1/2007. Have to admit that I have lost my speed for shorter distance run. I am no longer the LIM FANG HAU that I used to be in 2004 & 2005 (improving in most of the races I participated).

If there is a three tier grading for half marathon I'll participate in the half marathon until I achieve my target before swithching to full marathon. If there is no three tier grading for half marathon, I'll switch to full marathon.

PENANG BRIDGE INTERNATIONAL MARATHON 2006 SUMMARY

2006-08-03T07:29:00.000+08:00

Date: 30/7/2006
Time: 0400
Distance: 42.195 km
Timing: 5 hr 2 min 25.52 sec
Timing split: 5 km = 28 min +
10 km mark = 1 hr 00 min +
15 km mark = 1 hr 33 min +
20 km mark = 2 hr 6 min +
22.5 km mark = 2 hr 25 min+
Stopped for 10 minutes at the water station at 22.5 km mark to fix the MP3 player as the power from MP3 battery had exhausted
25 km mark = 2 hr 52 min +
30 km mark = 3 hr 29 min +
35 km mark = 4 hr 3 min +
37.5 km mark = 4 hr 24 min +
40 km mark = 4 hr 46 min +
42.195 km = 5 hr 2 min 25.52 sec

Stay tune for the detailed report.

FREE AND EASY TRIP AT MT. DATUK ON 23 JULY 2006

2006-07-28T01:58:00.000+08:00

Kam Meng preparing to snap photos at campsite of the summit.
View from the rocks (not the highest point)
View from the lower level of rocks
Ladder to climb up the rocks. I did not want to climb up the ladder. I was on the highest point of the rocks on 1/11/2005 with another group of climbers and I took 5 minutes to descend from the rocks as I had height phobia. In view of my own safety, I did not want to climb the ladder to the highest point of the rocks. It is easy to climb up but difficult to come down.

To view more photos, go to http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jasonlfh/my_photos and select album 2006-07-25

100 KM CHARITY RUN FROM SUBANG JAYA TO PORT DICKSON DETAILED REPORT

2006-07-26T01:54:00.000+08:00

Pre-run

Blessing by the monk at Subang Jaya Buddhist Association. Later, it was followed by briefing by Mr Lee, the chairman of the organising committee before the flag-off at time 0615. The participants were told to follow Mr Ngae for the first three hours as he was very familiar with the route. The purpose of this run was to raise RM120,000 for Ms. Chew Lee Tee for her to undergo a kidney transplant in China. This run was divided into two groups i.e. the running group and the walking group. The participants who had completed the 42 km marathon were advised to follow the running group.

Running

In this run when started at time 0615, two runners were already ahead of Mr. Ngae. One of them was Ong (the Langkawi Ironmen finisher) and a 19-year old student. I was in the second group led by Mr Ngae (the ultra marathon runner who had recently completed 200 km run from Batu Caves to Maran over three days), Steve Lee (from Canada, the Langkawai Ironmen finisher) and Sam (from Japan, the Langkawi Ironmen finisher). The first 8 km pacing by Mr Ngae was extremely slow. There was no need to rush for this run. Mr Ngae expected to complete the run in 15 hours time. Well, I just followed his pace. We stopped for 40 minutes for our carbo loading dinner after the Puchong Selatan toll. I had Indian vegetarian food with Dhal curry for carbo loading dinner. Later, I continued the run by following closely Mr Ngae’s pace.

For the first three hours, the running route was into the housing estate of Puchong Utama we were running at the opposite site of the highway for most of the time. The traffic was quite heavy at that time. After running for almost five hours, we had reached the 27.5 km mark i.e. the slip road to Cyberjaya passing by Puchong Utama housing estate. The route to Cyberjaya was quite quiet with less cars. My body condition at that time was still fine. After 27.5 km mark I took my first caffeinated Powergel. My body condition was still fine. We were informed by the support car drivers that the first two runners were already at Dengkil when we reached Cyberjaya. Cyberjaya, at night was a quiet town with less cars. From Cyberjaya, the view of Putrajaya at night was clearly visible (i.e. the bridge of Putrajaya). We passed by DHL office, Fujitsu office, Lim Kok Wing university and the fire station before heading towards Dengkil via the trunk road. The end of Cyberjaya, according to Mr. Ngae, was 43 km away from Subang Jaya Buddhist Association. The trunk road to Dengkil was 5 km. We had to run in the darkness. Luckily, Mr. Ngae had torchlight. I was using the red colour reflector light given to me by Mr. Tey although I was wearing a very bright colour running vest (i.e. light green). We had to run at the opposite site of the road for safety purposes. I could clearly remember the road to Dengkil. At that time I was cycling alone but did not reach Dengkil as it there were many vehicles on the road. The road to Dengkil at night also had many cars.

After running more than 9 hours, we finally reached Dengkil, 48 km mark. Dengkil was quite quiet at night. At that time I was feeling a little sleepy. I took my second Powergel (without caffeine) but this has no effect to keep me awake. I was feeling sleepy and giddy. After a short while I took another Powergel (with caffeine) and this had the effect of keeping me awake. My legs were still fine and there were no blisters on my toes. From Dengkil, there was another 10 km to Salak Tinggi. We were already almost half way.

After more than 10.5 hours, we managed to reach Salak Tinggi. It was quite quiet at night. From Salak Tinggi onwards there was another 13 km to reach Sepang. I felt boring at that time. So, I decided to put on my MP3 Player. With music s from the MP3 player, I decided to break away from the group led by Mr. Ngae. The road was quite dark and it was quite cooling when running in the early hours of the morning. After running half way (alone) I was not sure whether I had taken the right way. I decided to call the support car drivers and within 10 minutes the support car came and indicated to me that I had taken the right way. Later Mr. Ngae, Steve and Sam managed to catch up and we paced together to reach Sepang. At certain areas there were stray dogs and we just ran as usual and ignored the stray dogs.

After running for more than 12 hours (i.e. after 12 hours), we finally managed to reach Sepang (71 km mark). At that point, my legs were fine but I felt sleepy and giddy. I had to consume another packet of Powergel with caffeine to keep me awake and my mind alert. The day seems to get brighter and there was another 18 km to reach Lukut. There was not much traffic at this time. I decided to break away from the group led by Mr. Ngae for the second time. As the day was getting brighter, my left ankle started to experience some pain as I ran (i.e. pain in the bones). I could not run and what I could do was walk to let the pain on my left ankle disappear. When there was no pain, then I ran at a slow pace in order not to aggravate the pain. This route from Sepang to Lukut has many undulating hilly terrains. Some hills from far distance were quite steep with a gradient of 45 degrees and I had to walk up in order to conserve energy and to protect my left injured ankle. The fun part about this route was when going downhill whereby I could speed i.e. ran as fast as I could. After running more than 80 km, I told myself that I am going to reach Lukut no matter how tough the condition was and I felt quite giddy and sleepy even though the sun had come out. I had no choice but to consume another packet of Powergel with caffeine to keep me alert and awake. As the day was getting hotter, one of the support cars volunteer came out of the car and decided to accompany me for the run. He (could not remember his name) asked me whether I wanted to take the ride to Lukut as he noticed me having some difficulties in running. I told him that I am not going to give up as my condition was fine. The only problem I encountered was sleepiness even though had consumed the 7th Powergel packet. All I wanted was some water for me to splash on my head to keep me awake. I stopped halfway to wait for about 10 minutes for another support car to provide me some icy cool water. When the support car came, I was disappointed that there was no water for me. At that time Mr. Ngae was catching up and Steve and Sam had drop off quite far behind. With frustration feelings, I decided to run as fast as I could in order to reach Lukut. It was quite hot at that time. Luckily there was another support car in front with water and I immediately grabbed the water for drink and to splash my head to keep me awake and alert.

I was earlier (at 75 km mark) informed by the organise that the first runner Mr. Ong had decided to call it a day after running 90 km. The second runner, a 19-year old college student, had to quit after running 73 km due to tiredness and inability to continue the run. This left me going at a steady pace. I was advised by the organiser not to continue the last 10 km in Lukut town as the weather was pretty hot and the traffic was quite heavy making it unsafe for runners to continue. I decided to listen to the advice of the organiser. My next target was the Lukut dialysis centre, situated 1 km after reaching the busy Lukut town. After running 86 km, my condition was still fine with no sign of legs muscles cramp at all. The only problem I had was my injured left ankle.

When reaching the 89 km mark, the traffic in Lukut town was quite heavy and I was directed by the volunteers to run at the correct route to reach the dialysis centre. As the day was getting hotter and hotter, my mind was still strong and I could go on for another 10 km but I decided to take the advice of the organiser not to continue with the remaining 10 km. According to them, running 90 km is already enough.

Finally, I completed 90 km in 15 hrs 33 min 31.04 sec at the Lukut dialysis centre. I was surprised that this charity run also offered a finisher medal. I was the second runner to finish this charity run. I was photographed with Mr. Ong, the first finisher by the reporter from China Press.

Post-run

I was happy that this was the longest distance I ever ran in my running life. Although my timing was not so good as compared with other ultra marathon runners, I managed to contribute to this charity run via donation from other runners. The worst experience in this run was to run with an injured and painful left ankle for the remaining 16 km. The best memory was finishing the charity run.

The question of me whether I will run again in future, I will run again if there is such event and the time permits me to participate. I’ll even consider a 24 hours run if the run is for charity purposes.

Stay tune for 10 interesting facts on this charity run.

100 KM CHARITY RUN PHOTOS 2

2006-07-20T19:08:00.000+08:00

With Chee Wee and Tony
Mr. Lee briefing the participants
Blessing session at the temple before the run
Run flag off on 15 July 2006 at Subang Jaya Buddhist Association

Photos courtesy of KC. Stay tune for detailed report.

MMDS 2 REGISTRATION FOR SALE BY CHAN CHUI MIEW

2006-07-20T07:33:00.000+08:00

Dear all my outdoor/sporting frens,

I'm looking for someone to takeover my race registration for MMDS 2 to be held on 30th July 2006 which clashed with Penang Bridge Run. Please feel free to contact me if you are interested, perhaps you can also help me to publish or circulate this info. Thank you thank you :)

Cheers!

What: MMDS 2When: 30 July 2006 (Sunday)
Where: Dataran Wawasan, Putrajaya
More info at http://www.duathlonseries.com.my/
Race Category: Women's Age Group (18-29)
Race: 10km Run / 50km Bike / 5km Run
Lelong Price: RM50 (Original registration fee RM70)
What you get: All goodies (except the certificate) and the glory of the race
Reason of selling: I'm going for Penang Bridge Run at the same day
Contact: 016-6113168 or chui_miew@yahoo.com

Cheers,
Miew the blueameba

100 KM CHARITY RUN MEDAL

2006-07-20T07:19:00.000+08:00

Back
Front

Surprised by the fact that this charity run also provides medal to the finisher. The certificate will be posted to me later.

CHARITY RUN PHOTOS

2006-07-19T00:25:00.000+08:00

First stop after Puchong Selatan toll for carbo loading dinner.
With Ching Tai
Photos courtesy of Ching Tai

100 KM CHARITY RUN FROM SUBANG JAYA TO PORT DICKSON SUMMARY

2006-07-17T08:16:00.000+08:00

Date: 15 July 2006
Time: 1815
Orgnisers: Triathlon Association of Negri Sembilan, Team Mermaid and Hash House Harrier
Starting point: Subang Jaya Buddhist Association
Ending point: Lukut Dialysis Centre, 7 km away from Port Dickson town
Time taken: 15 hrs 33 min 31.04 sec with finisher medal
Position: 2nd runner to finish the run
Total participants: 30 runners
Actual distance covered: 90 km to 91 km (I was advised by the organiser not to continue for the last 10 km due to heavy traffic in Lukut town and hot weather. Other participants including the first finisher were also advised not to continue fort the last 10 km. Decided to listen to the advice of the organiser.)

Thanks to those who supported the charity run (in whatever means i.e. financially or non-financially) and to those who came to snap photos (including Ching Tai, Kenny Choo and KC Leong)

Observation notes:
1. Well organised with adequate support cars with refreshment.
2. Very hilly routes especially the 18 km distance from Sepang to Lukut
3. Very hot weather towards the finishing point.
4. No cramp on my calf muscles at all.
5. Weight before the run = 61 kg, weight after the run (at the point of writing) = 61 kg
6. At the point of writing had some slight muscles soreness as compared to yesterday.
7. My left ankle is swollen, i.e. I cannot run until I recovered. If I were to run, this will aggravate the pain on my left ankle. I have to stop running temporarily until I recover from my ankle injury.
8. I could feel the pain on my right knee especially when walking down and up the stair case after the run. At the point of writing, I knees felt much better.

Stay tune for the detailed report and photos.

100 KM CHARITY RUN FROM SUBNG JAYA TO PORT DICKSON LATEST UPDATE

2006-07-13T08:11:00.000+08:00

Thanks to those who had contributed for this charity run. I’ll pass the donation to the organiser on Saturday, 15 July 2006.

List of contributors:

1. Rohaizad bin Norpiah (18 June 2006): RM100/-
2. Tan Swee Huah (18 June 2006): RM50/-
3. Aeow Cen Peng (12 July 2006): RM50/-
4. Lim Fang Hau (11 June 2006): RM40/-
5. Tan Chee Wee (29 June 2006): RM30/-
6. Aiman Cheah Tiong Chap (18 June 2006): RM20/-

I'll try my best to complete the distance. I'll also try to get the receipts from the organiser.

SHEARES BRIDGE RUN & ARMY HALF MARATHON 2006

2006-07-12T01:26:00.000+08:00

Date: 27 August 2006

Location: Esplanade Bridge, Singapore

Starting time: 0530

Distance: 21 km (Competitive event)

Water / medical stations: 20 (this is more than the water station you can find if running a full marathon)

Time limit: No time limit, after 6 hours you will be running at your own risk as the road traffic will be back to normal

Weather condition: Very high humidity (expect the worst weather condition early in the morning without any wind at all especially running into East Coast Park)

Number of participants: Year 2005 = Approximately 60,000 (total for all categories) (Approximately 10 times more than the P. J. Half Marathon)

Year 2006 = ?

Rating: 6-star event (The largest running event in Singapore in terms of participation) (The 2005 Singapore Marathon attracted 22,000 participants)

Part of the running route for this event will be used for the 2006 Singapore Marathon (especially the East Coast Park route)

ChampionChip Timing Band will be used to record the time by competitors.

Finisher medals and certificates will be given to those who completed the run.

Race results will be published on the website within 48 hours after the race.

For more detail please visit this site http://www.safra.sg/safrasbr&ahm/

9 JULY 2006

2006-07-12T01:16:00.000+08:00

Time: 0530
Location: Bukit Aman car park
Activity: Ran from the car park to Petronas station in Sri Hartamas taking a big loop (30 km route) and ran back via double hills and finally ran on the Carcosa route back to the car park
Distance: Approximately 25.77 km
Timing: 2 hr 54 min 17.15 sec
Pace: Very relaxed
Initially targeted for 30 km run but did not want to push for it. Just wanted to go for shorter distance at a very relaxed pace.

IPOH INTERNTIONAL RUN 2006 DETAILED REPORT

2006-07-11T08:14:00.000+08:00

First 5 km

My timing was a little bit off my expected time split of 24 min+. I did not now the reason for it.

Next 5 km

My timing split was 57 min+. Just 4 min off my expected timing split. I tried to increase my pace but I found it quite difficult to do so.

Next 2 km

Initially my target was to reach Jaya Jusco before 1 hr time split but I could not do so and I reached the 12 km mark with the time split of 1 hr 8 min+.

Next 3 km

My next target was to try to reach the 15 km mark within 1 hr 20 min+ but I could not make it. I took 1 hr 26 min+ to reach the 15 km mark. I tried my very best to increase my pace but ths did not help as the sun was already out and it was getting hotter and hotter. Surprisingly there was a Powergel provided to runners as compared to last year.

Next 5 km

I tried to increase my pace to recover the time lost initially due to my slow pace. I found it quite hard to do so. When reaching the 20 km mark it was already 1 hr 59 min+. It was 5 min off my last year timing split. I tried my very best to increase my pace.

Last 1 km

Knowing that a sub-2 hr timing was impossible, I did not want to give up. I tried to run as fast as I could under this hot weather to finish the race and I managed to finish it in 2 hr 6 min 6.66 sec.

Perhaps I had peaked too early in P.J. Half Marathon and I found myself in this race running without any runners (pacers) who were of the same standard with me. Will attempt next year, perhaps with a new strategy. The water station service was still poor as last year. Perhaps there should be isotonic drink provided to runners alomg the way rather than at the finishing point.

My running improvement (timing wise) is going to be slow this year as I’ll be juggling my time with other new sports.

SINGAPORE MARATHON 2006 UPDATES

2006-07-07T10:28:00.000+08:00

Dear Fang Hau,
Thank you for your email.
If you are unable to attend the race entry pack collection on the 24th,25th and 26th of November, the following arrangements are available:
1) Overseas runners who arrive after the race entry pack collection days can collect their Race Entry Pack at the Race Secretariat, located in our official hotel where overseas runners are welcomed to collect their race entry packs.
( Information on the official hotel will be released closer to the event.)
2) You may authorise your relatives, friends or representatives in Singapore to collect your race entry pack on your behalf. Authorisation forms will be made available closer to the event date. More information will be available on our website prior to the collection date.
Hope to see you at the start line this year!
Regards,
Daniel
Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon
- Hide quoted text ------ Original Message -----From: "FANG HAU LIM" To: info@singaporemarathon.comSubject: SINGAPORE MARATHON 2006Date: Fri, 7 Jul 2006 08:17:02 +0800
>Dear organiser,> >I am representing a group of runners from Petaling Jaya,>Malaysia. I would like to enquire certain matters in>relation to ths event.> >It is understood that the bibs distribution will be held>from 24 November 2006 to 26 November 2006 at the Suntec>Convention Centre. Is there any possibility for the>organiser to make an arrangement for us to collect our bibs>on 2 December 2006 ? It is quite troublesome for us to>travel 2 times down to Singapore i.e. for bibs collection>and for the race.> >Regards,>-- >LIM FANG HAU (林方浩)>Petaling Jaya,>Selangor,>Malaysia.>

IPOH INTERNATIONAL RUN 2006 PHOTOS

2006-07-05T07:23:00.000+08:00

Photos courtesy of Miow Chin & Yin Fook.

Stay tune for details of the report.

PUBLIC REPRIMAND FROM THE SECURITIES COMMISSION

2006-07-04T06:41:00.000+08:00

SC slaps penalty on Affin Investment

July 4 2006

THE Securities Commission (SC) has publicly reprimanded Affin Investment Bank Bhd, formerly known as Affin Merchant Bank, and slapped a penalty on it whereby it cannot submit certain corporate proposals to the regulator for three months.

The punishment started yesterday and the SC said it would not accept proposals under Section 32 of the Securities Commission Act 1993.

This section covers proposals like bonus issues, initial public offers, the purchase of securities or assets using shares and major deals that changes the business of a company, among others.

Affin Investment had failed to discharge its responsibilities as principal adviser and independent placement agent to a restructuring scheme proposed by Omega Holdings Bhd, the SC said in a statement released yesterday.

The SC statement confirms an article carried by the Business Times on Monday.

Under Omega's restructuring scheme, a newco Energro Bhd was to take over the listing status of Omega.

The scheme involved the injection of a new business into Energro, namely to distribute Alfa Romeo cars in Malaysia, under a sales concession agreement between Milan Auto (M) Sdn Bhd, the controlling shareholder of Energro, and Fiat Auto SpA of Italy.

Affin Investment, as the principal adviser, had submitted the proposal for the restructuring scheme of Omega on January 31 2003. However, this was revoked by the SC on August 2 2004 after it discovered that the agreement had been terminated.

Affin Holdings Bhd, parent of Affin Investment, told Bursa Malaysia that without the concession, which was central to the SC's approval, the SC considered the proposal to be no longer viable.

On this basis, the SC found that Affin Investment had failed to verify the status and validity of the agreement with Fiat Auto, despite notification by the SC.

It said that Affin Investment had instead continued to rely on representations made by Milan Auto and Energro that the agreement was still valid.

Further, in its capacity as independent placement agent, Affin Investment had failed to exercise its responsibilities and instead allowed Milan Auto to directly place out Energro shares which constituted a breach of the SC's rules and a breach of the SC's condition of approval for the scheme.

However, the SC noted Affin's efforts to mitigate risks by establishing a set of internal risk assessment procedures and guidelines under the direction of its new president and chief executive officer.

The above news was extracted from today's NST Business Times. To view the full picture of the news do visit the following web page http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_News/BT/Tuesday/Frontpage/BT575386.txt/Article/

This public reprimand was also announced at http://announcements.bursamalaysia.com/linkwebmainpage.nsf/lca.htm under the announcement section of Affin Holdings Berhad on 3 July 2006.

Some of you may know that I work in the investment bank. My intention of publishing this article is just to clarify what has actually happened in the past. I was not in the investment banking industry at that time. Almost all the team members involved in the corporate proposal at that time had left the bank. There was not any intention from the ex-staff nor the bank to defraud the Securities Commission (SC) and the public. The intention of defrauding the public and the SC was from the promoter, Kenneth Chow (KC). As a result, KC was convicted and the Reporting Accountants from the (big 4) ware also prosecuted under the SC Act. If you bumped into me, I would appreciate that questions (just in case you may be curious why such a bad news appeared in the newspaper) relating to the public reprimand on Affin Investment Bank Berhad from the SC to be refrained. I am currently not in a good mood to answer such questions. I'll let you know perhaps 2 weeks later. It was quite a bad day for the Bank whereby on 3/7/2006, the Bank had changed its name and the Bank received a public reprimand from the SC for breach of securities law. You may also notice that this news also appeared in other national newspapers.

Other topics relating to running or outdoor activities may be discussed.

IPOH INTERNATIONAL RUN 2006

2006-07-03T07:54:00.000+08:00

Date: 2/6/2006
Time: 0645
Distance: 21 km
Timing: 2 hr 6 min 6.66 sec, average pace per km = 6 min 0.32 sec
2 hr 00 min 27.31 sec (2005)
2004: Did not finish, collapsed infront of Greentown Mall (19 km mark) due to severe cramps on both of calf muscles, had to be taken back to the starting point in ambulance

Split time: 5 km mark = 27 min+
10 km mark = 57 min +
11 km mark = 1 hr 2 min +
12 km mark = 1 hr 8 min +
15 km mark = 1 hr 26 min +
18 km mark = 1 hr 47 min +
19 km mark = 1 hr 53 min +
20 km mark = 1 hr 59 min +
21 km mark = 2 hr 6 min 6.66 sec

Some of my running friends expect me to do sub-2 hours this time since I made it in PJ Half Marathon 2006 recently as Ipoh route is quite flat. The result was I failed. Have to admit that I did not have consistent long run after the KLIM 2006. Trying to balance myself with other activities such as cycling, mountain climbing and swimming. Glad that I still managed to maintain my average timing as todate. Will try to run in Ipoh until I managed to achieve my target and will also try to enjoy future half marathons (not so results oriented).

Stay tune for detailed report of the race.

NEW ROUTE & RUNNING IN REMEMBRANCE OF THE LATE CHAN SUET YIN

2006-06-26T08:04:00.000+08:00

Where: From my house Section 20, Petaling Jaya to Bukit Aman car park

Distance: Approximately 24.57 km

Date: 25/6/2006

Time: 0535

Timing: 2 hr 46 min 42.59 sec

Decided to try the new route and I found it very interesting and not so boring. On the way to TTDI Park (running through residential area in SS2, I was running along Jalan SS2/2), I passed by house no. 399. This was quite a sad memory to me. In 1993 (could not remember the exact date), I was at Suet Yin's (my secondary school classmate) house with friends and classmates to complete our assignments. A year later (in 1994), I was shocked and surprised to hear (during recess time, the announcement made by Mr Ong Hock Thye, our discipline teacher) that she had passed away (at the age of 15) due to anaemia. My other classmates attended the funeral and I did not go as I was afraid to attend at that time. I had ran passed the house 3 times since last year and including today. Whenever I ran passed the house, I'll remember her. Almost 12 years had passed since the demised of my classmate, Chan Suet Yin. I'll never forget this in my life as I never had the opportunity to see her for the last time before the funeral. Whatever it is, this run (fro my house to Bukit Aman car park for the first time) is in remembrance of her.

After passing her house, the run continued into TTDI Park and to Sri Hartamas Petronas station (passing by the Securities Commission and Plaza Mon't Kiara). After the Petronas station (after running the big loop), as usual the route was to run back to Bukit Aman car park. I arrived at Bukit Aman car park at approximately time 0825.

Thanks to those who had taken care of my bag which consists of my drinks and shirt.

18 JUNE 2006 - HAPPY DAY AND SAD DAY

2006-06-21T07:50:00.000+08:00

Why happy day ? This was because I managed to achieve my target of running below 2 hour in a half marathon for the first time although towards the end I knew that it was impossible. With high determination, I did not give up and I made it and the timing was less than 20 seconds to 2 hours.

Why sad day ? I lost my money and mobile phone. After the run, I was at the stadium waiting for Ronnie for breakfast. Suddenly, my stomach was not feeling well. I immediately rushed into the toilet and I perched (“Lau Sai”). After perching, I forgot to take my pouch out of the toilet. I only realised after chatting with Sim. I immediately rushed back to the toilet to retrieve my pouch. When retrieving my pouch (it was already open), my hand phone was gone and approximately RM200 was also missing. Other items such as I/C, driving license, coins (approximately RM2), medal, MP3 player, pen and MP3 player remain intact.

This was the second time I lost my hand phone and money. As a result, on the same day, I had to go to Maxis centre to reactivate my mobile number and purchase a new mobile phone.

P. J. HALF MARATHON 2006 DETAILED REPORT

2006-06-20T08:21:00.000+08:00

Pre-race

My legs were still fresh from my recent ultra marathon in Kedah. I still felt some soreness on my legs due to a hard 6.5 km sprint run on Thursday, 15 June 2006 at KLCC Park. I decided to apply some deep heat rub on my legs in order to prevent muscle cramps when running. This time my target was to clock below 2 hours. My usual running shoes (Adidas Supernova Control) were still in wet condition and I decided to wear my old Adidas running shoes (the shoes I have been using from the third week of July 2004 until early May 2005) and the shoe condition had almost worn out in terms of grip.

Race day

The run started at time 0630. I started with slow and relax pace first and later at a faster pace. In order to save time, I decided to skip water station and sponging station until after 10 km mark. In order to replace the water, I substituted it with plum powder drink (mixture of Taiwan and local plum powder) and I drank it when running i.e. no stopping at the refreshment and sponging station. I felt very comfortable when running at a fast pace passing by the first refreshment station (skipped) and reaching the first sponging station. Upon reaching the first sponging station, my right eye suddenly felt some itchiness due to the sweat and I wiped it with my right hand. Without realising it, I had wiped it with my right hand that still had the smell of the deep heat rub. As a result, my right eyes felt the burning sensation and very uncomfortable. I was forced to stop at the first sponging station and I applied some water from the sponge to cool my right eye. Later, I increased my pace faster in order to cover the lost time.

When running towards the flyover to the old Subang airport road, DK (PM 4) and Tony (Penguin 3) had overtaken me. I told myself that I could not let those two runners to overtake me. I decided to run as fast as I could and this was boosted by the music from the MP3 player. I managed to overtake DK first after the second refreshment station (skipped). Tony’s pace was fast and I decided to use him as my pacer. Later I managed to close up the gap and overtaken him after the second sponging station (skipped). After that my body started to feel the heat as the sun was shinning and I stopped for a drink at the third refreshment station (very thirsty). Later I continued my run passing through the U-turn at Terminal 2. I stopped at the third sponging station to cool my body with water from the sponge.

I continued my run passing to the last refreshment station and I felt extremely thirsty and I decided to drink all my plum powder drink and a cup of water and 100 Plus. Later, I continued my run to the last sponging station with legs still looking strong like never been running at this fast pace before. I stopped o cool my body with water from the sponge. I felt thirsty and I decided to drink the water from the sponge as there is no cup provided and I had earlier on discarded my water bottle. Later, I continued my run until I reach the T-junction and had to turn left.

At that time, my legs felt tired at I started to reduce my pace until I was forced to walk for a while as my toes had some blisters that caused pain to my toes when running. Some runners had overtaken me and I was encouraged to run as the finishing point was quite near. Looking at my time, it was almost close to 2 hours and I felt that my sub-2 target was impossible. Upon reaching the stadium with less than 2 minutes to the 2 hours time, I decided to try my very best to hit the sub-2 timing. I decided to sprint although my legs muscle felt pain and my toes were also pain due to blisters. For the last 200 metres, I had around 1 minute and 20 seconds to go and I sprinted and at my fastest pace. I was screaming while sprinting as my legs muscles were tired, pain and my toes were also very painful due to blisters.

Finally, I managed to cross the finishing line in 1 hr 59 min 40.26 sec (new personal best and first time running below 2 hours in a half marathon) in 150th position for men’s open. It was so close to the 2 hours time. I was glad to achieve my target and my strategy to skip water stations and sponging stations really worked.

Post race

I believe that I could improve better in the future. I’ll continue running the half marathon (in any event) until I managed to achieve what I wanted. My happiness turned into a sad day for me. Stay tune for the next posting.

P. J. HALF MARATHON 2006

2006-06-19T11:13:00.000+08:00

Distance: 21 km
Timing: 2004 (19.5 km) = 2 hr 15 min 40 sec (missed certificate by 40 sec)
2005 (21 km) = 2 hr 9 min+
2006 (21 km) = 1 hr 59 min 40.26 sec (New personal record)
Previous personal record = 2 hr 00 min 27 sec (Ipoh International Run 2005)
Position = 150th with medal and a certificate of merit which will be posted to the runners later.

The standard has risen for this year as compared with last year. If I were to run like last year’s timing I’ll never be able to get a medal. Stay tune for details of the report.

100 KM CHARITY RUN FROM SUBANG JAYA TO PORT DICKSON UPDATE

2006-06-19T10:12:00.000+08:00

I would like to thank the following persons who had contributed for the forthcoming charity run.

1. Rohaizad bin Norpiah RM100
2. Tan Swee Huah RM50
3. Aiman Cheah Tiong Chap RM20

I had also contributed RM40 for myself for the charity run. Should you have any interest to contribute for the charity run, do contact me at 012-2478525 or email me at jasonlfh@gmail.com

I’ll try to get the receipt for those who have contributed for the charity run.

3RD KEDAH 12-HOUR RUN / WALK DETAILED REPORT

2006-06-19T08:11:00.000+08:00

This is my 2nd ultra marathon. I have not been racing for the past 3 months since the KLIM 2006. I have not been doing any long runs since 1 month ago. This was not a well-planned race. It was my very last minute decision to go to this race due to busy schedule. Departed from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar at time 1130. Arrived at Alor Setar at time 1800. Took a 20 minutes ride via a taxi to Kubang Sepat. Did not have enough time to take my dinner and I just eat some apples and Powerbar before the run.

The race started at time 1900. Each runner is required to run in a loop of 3.5 km. For every completed loop it would be counted as 1 completed loop. The time allowed is 12 hours and runners had to run as many loops as possible. Runners have to run pass the half way check point in order for his or her results to be certified. No short cuts are allowed. 50% of the route is tar road and 50% of the route is untarred road (i.e. sandy road with some rocks, not like the one in MacRitchie Reservoir in Singapore).

I could not remember my timing splits well. All I could remember was:
Lap 1 = 19 min+ (3.5 km completed)
Lap 3 = 1 hr 4 min+ (10.5 km completed)
Lap 6 = 2 hr 34 min+ (21 km completed)
Lap 12 = 6 hr 2 min + (42 km completed)
Lap 18 = 11 hr 50 min 34.74 sec (63 km completed)

For the first 21 km everything was fine as I ran at a very relaxed pace. The weather was quite humid and hot. I was stopped for 7 minutes by a reporter from Guang Ming Daily for an interview. The refreshment provided was not up to expectation (not so much variety as you can find in the Singapore 12-hour run) as you could not expect much from the organiser (having short of man power). The fruits were quickly consumed by the fast runners and I was lucky as I brought my own apples as refreshment.

After completed 21 km, my stomach started to feel hungry. I really wanted some oily food to replenish myself but could not find such food. I had to rely on my Powergel and fruits to replenish my self.

After running more than 10 laps, my legs started to get tired. I had to walk and run for the rest of the 7 km. After 42 km, I decided to change my shoes as I had blister on my toes. I also had some rest and ate some apples and water melon.

At mid night, it started to drizzle. Before completing 49 km, I felt dizzy and giddy when running on the road. I could not run straight (i.e. I ran zig-zag and could not focus properly). My sugar level could be low. After completed 14 laps or 49 km, it started to rain heavily. I decided to rest and ate some refreshment. The weather was cooling and I just doze off without realising it.zzzzzzzzzzzz

When I woke up, I realised that it was time 0415. I had slept for 1.5 hours without realising it. Immediately I rushed to the route to resume my run. After running for 17 laps, I decided to take a break as my legs were tired. When I resumed the run, I felt myself freezing and could not run fast due to the cold and raining weather in the morning. After, 1 km, I managed to regain my momentum. As the 12-hour time limit was approaching, I quickly increase my pace. At the last 1 km, I managed to run as fast as I could to reach the check point. Finally, I managed to finish the 18th lap in 11 hr 50 min 34.74 sec. I managed to get a finisher medal and a certificate of completion (minimum, must cover at least 50 km for men) with name written in Chinese for the first time.

Based on my observation, the overall standard has dropped for this year as compared to last year in terms of timing and distance covered by runners. Most of the route does not have street lights. At certain point, I dare not run at a fast pace as I was afraid of kicking into stones or stepping into holes. My night vision was not so good. When running on the road, most of the time I had to run along the white colour line on the left side of the road for the first 4 hours. There were cars passing by. It was quite risky if I were to run outside the white line or to overtake as the chances of being knocked down by cars is high. Most of the cars were speeding at high speed probably around 70 km/hr to 80 km/hr. According to the organiser, the run for next year may be changed to Jitra whereby runners will run around the lake and passing through a golf course with lights.

Thanks to those who had supported and motivated me for this run.

100 KM CHARITY RUN FROM SUBANG JAYA TO PORT DICKSON

2006-06-12T23:18:00.000+08:00

I got this form from Mr. Brcue Wun, a Pacesetters member on 11 June 2006. According to Bruce, this is a charity run (not walk as stated in the form) for a distance of 100 km from Subang Jaya to Port Dickson to raise funds for a teacher to undergo a kidney transplant in China costing RM120,000. The run will start from Subang Jaya Buddhist Temple at time 1800 on 15 July 2006 (not time 0000 on 16 July 2006 as printed in the form).

This event clashes with the Seremban Half Marathon which is scheduled to be held on 16 July 2006.

For further information on this event, you may contact Mr. Lee Chewee Hoe, the organising chairman of the Triathlon Association of Negri Sembilan at 012-233 7899 or other mobile numbers as stated in the form.

You may help in this charity run by donating generously any amount as you wish. All payments by cheque are to be made to Triathlon Association of Negri Sembilan. In order to start the ball rolling, I have contributed RM40/- for myself. I’ll be running this charity run for 100 km in order to raise RM120,000. Should you have any interest to support me for this run, you may contact me at 012-247 8525 or drop me an email at jasonlfh@gmail.com I shall make an arrangement to meet you.

Your kind contribution for this charitable event is very much appreciated.

Thanks.

ROUTE SURVEY

2006-06-12T07:36:00.000+08:00

Cycled from Bukit Aman car park (exit) to Hartamas Petronas station (exit) via Bank Negara route. Distance = 9.84 km (based on my bicycle speedometer). If you compare with Pacesetters' running route map, it is 9.8 km. The distance is almost accurate.

Cycled from Hartmas Petronas station (exit) back to Bukit Aman car park via big loop at the Petronas station (normally used in the Pacesetters' 30 km trialrun) and Bank Negara route. Distance = 10.57 km (based on my bicycle speedometer).

Total distance = 20.41 km

Petronas big loop = 0.73 km

3RD KEDAH 12-HOUR RUN / WALK

2006-06-11T23:47:00.000+08:00

My first ultra marathon / run finisher certificate with name written in Chinese.

(Official Press release)

Event:3rd Kedah 12hours run and walk

Date:8/6/06 -9/6/06

Time:7pm-7amMinimum:50KM(Men),45km(Women)

Venue:Kubang Sepat,Alor Setar.

吉北長跑協會主辦的第三屆12小時走／跑公開賽于於8.6.2006晚上七時由准拿督鐘清忠先生揮旗起跑。

這項具挑戰性的比賽今年仍獲得七十多愛好者參加，而且出席率有所提高。

這次的參賽者在經過漫長的夜晚和冒著午夜后連綿不斷的寒雨和積水，陰暗碎石路，很多人都還能滿足地完成了他們各自己的目標。

今早八時由主席楊善元先頒獎給以下的前十名優勝者。

101.5km--Champion冠軍：劉道發Liew Tho Fatt（Penang, 檳城) 0164897093

87.5km--1st Runner-up亞軍：阿都拉曼Abdul Rahman Diah(Kubang Sepat古邦色拔)

84.0km--2nd Runner-up季軍：駱明宗Loh Beng Chong(Penang,檳城）

73.5km--4th第四名：陳經國（Alor Setar,亞羅士打）

73.5km--5th第五名：蘇聯僑（尤侖）

70.0km--6th第六名：胡振華（高岭，Kedah）

70.0km--7th第七名：謝亞（王+民）（Kubang Sepat古邦色拔）

70.0km--8th第八名：陳汶富（Alor Setar,亞羅士打）

66.5km--9th第九名：陳清來（Kubang Sepat,古邦色拔）

66.5km--10th第十名：林文益（尤侖)

安慰獎（男至少50公里，女至少45公里）

63km--王幼綢（女,端影）

63km--林方浩 (Selangor雪蘭莪)

59.5km--譚賀銘（日得拉）

56km--陳清財（尤侖）

56km--洪桂花（尤侖）

56km--李文星（Bukit Pinang)

56km--Bua Keow(日得拉)

52.5km--黃傅漢（端影）

52.5km--Phuah Chee Kien(Selangor)

52.5km--林僑榮（甲板）

52.5km--陳惠真（尤侖）

52.5km--Yu Song(Penang,檳城）

今年的賽會也獲得以下熱心人士的贊助經費：

RM1000--准拿督鍾清忠

RM500--符朝南女士

RM400--泰山（霹靂）塑膠工業有限公司

RM200--蒲復才先生

RM200--耀輝企業有限公司

RM 200--德興貿易

Results courtesy of Mr. Tey

Stay tune for details of the report.

4 JUNE 2006

2006-06-06T17:14:00.000+08:00

Data: 4/6/2006
Time: 0745
Location: Putrajaya
Activity: Cycling (from Dataran Putrajaya to Cyberjaya to trunk road heading towards Dengkil and back to Dataran Putrajaya)
Distance: 40.84 km
Top speed: 40 km/h
Average speed: 20km/h to 30km/h
Timing: 2 hr 32 min

It was almost one month I did not cycle. I told myself that no matter what the condition was I must cycle to Cyberjaya. The condition of the road especially on the motorcycle lane was quite bad on certain stretches. There were rocks and sand on the motorcycle lane. At one part of the motorcycle lane, there was a pothole. I almost fell of from my bike as my bicycle almost hit the pothole. Luckily, I managed to apply the break in time. Along the way, I had to stop 3 times to fix my bicycle chain. I was surprised when I tried to increase my speed after going down hill but the bike could not go fast and when I stopped for a while, I tried to increase my speed but my bike could not go fast although I use the highest gear. Later, I discovered that the bicycle chain had come off from its original position. Perhaps this could be due to changing gear problem (i.e. using wrong gear when ascending or descending).

On my way to Dengkil from Cyberjaya using the trunk road, there were many vehicles speeding along the road. After cycling for a kilometre on the trunk road, I decided not to take the risk to cycle to Dengkil as it was dangerous with many vehicles speeding. I decided to cycle back to Dataran Putrajaya.

Observation

1. Speed getting faster from previous ride but not fast enough for competition.
2. Will try to go for longer distance for the next ride.
3. Level of confidence increased for long ride as my thighs were not tired at all but I had a slight pain on my buttock perhaps due to cycling for more than 40 km for the first time and a long period lay off from cycling.

3 JUNE 2006 - PACEMAKERS' ANNIVERSARY RUN 2

2006-06-06T06:57:00.000+08:00

OX Turbo Snail and OX Rocket Turtles team.
Geok Wah from OX Turbo Snail.
Group photos before starting.

Distance: 2.6 km (2 laps) X 4 (Relay)
Location: KLCC Park

Did not participate. Acted as a photographer and reserved (last) runner. Ran for 1 lap for fun in 5 min 43.85 sec before resuming my role as photographer.

To view the rest of the photos, go to http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jasonlfh/my_photos

and select album PAR PHOTOS.

MT. KINABALU PHOTOS

2006-06-02T07:58:00.000+08:00

This photo was taken from the flat ground of Laban Rata on 27 May 2006. Trail going down to Mesilau route or Timpohon gate at time 0632.
Morning view of Laban Rata rest house on 27 May 2006 at time 0605.
This photo was taken at Laban Rata on 27 May 2006. Sunrise at time 0601.
This photo was taken at the flat ground, infront of Laban Rata rest house on 27 May 2006. Sunrise at Laban Rata at time 0549.
This photo was taken on 27 May 2006 at time 0542. Sunrise at Laban Rata.
This photo was taken from Laban Rata rest house on 26 May 2006 at time 1847. Laban Rata at dusk.
This photo was taken on 26 May 2006 at time 1825. Sun set at Laban Rata.
Photo taken on 26 May 2006 at time 1451. Rapids flowing down from the mountain. This picture was taken from Laban Rata rest house. At that time it was raining heavily.
Photo taken on 26 May 2006 at time 1346. Timpohon trail after 5 km mark and Pondok Villosa.
Photo taken on 26 May 2006 at time 1206. Mesilau trail after 4.5 km mark and Pondok Lompoyou.

To view the rest of the photos, go to my photo album at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jasonlfh/my_photos

and select Sabah Day 1 album to Sabah Day 4 album to view photos.

25 MAY 2006 TO 28 MAY 2006 (UNFULFILLED WISH, SO NEAR YET SO FAR)

2006-06-02T04:13:00.000+08:00

25 MAY 2006

Departed from Low Cost Carriage Terminal (LCCT), Sepang to Terminal 2, Kota Kinabalu International Airport at time 0700. Arived at Kota Kinabalu after 2.25 hours flight. Travelled around Kota Kinabalu for some shopping before departed to Kinabalu National Park. Arrived at Nabalu, a small town before the Kinabalu National Park at time 1300. Had lunch at a restaurant near the Kinabalu National Park. At time 1445, we departed to Mesilau Resort. Stayed for a night at Mesilau Resort.

26 MAY 2006

Date: 26/5/2006
Time: 0826
Activity: Mountain climbing, Mt. Kinabalu
Distance: 10.72 km from Mesilau Resort to the summit, if you are using the Timpohon gate, the distance is 8.72 km. From Mesilau Resort to Laban Rata resthouse = 8 km, From Timpohon gate to Laban Rata resthouse = 6 km

Height: 4,095.2 metres (13,435 feet)
Location: Mesilau trail, Mesilau Resort
Mission: To reach the summit the next day before the sun rises
Who: Fang Hau, Tony Quay, Francis Toh, Kelvin Lee, Toh Saw Gin, Michael Siow, Elyna Tan, Lim Ho Ming, Lee Li Li, Agnes Chong, Ong Yong Sen and Yong Kar Leong
Equipment: Hiking boots, knapsack, windbreaker, poncho, sweater, torchlight and digital camera

It has been my wish to witness the sunrise from Low’s peak since my first attempt in 1995. This was my third time attempting this mountain. In 1995 and 1996, I managed to reach the summit but missed the sun rise as my pace was too slow and at that time I was not physically fit.

This time, we were allowed to hike at our own pace (we need not go in one group) as everyone has different level of fitness. The journey from Mesilau trail started at time 0826. The first 1.5 km was an uphill and followed by downhill after the distance. After 1 km, there was a shelter, Pondok Schima. Stopped there to have breakfast and snap some photos. Later, the journey continued to the next shelter, Pondok Bambu located after the 2 km mark. Arrived at Pondok Bambu at time 0933. Stopped there to have early lunch and snap some photos.

The journey continued to the next shelter, Pondok Nepenthes, located after 2.5 km mark. Arrived at Pondok Nephentes at time 1014. Stopped there for some food and snap photos. Later, continued the journey to the next shelter, Pondok Tikalod located after 3.5 km mark. Arrived at Pondok Tikalod at time 1044. Stopped there for some food and snap photos.

After the fourth stop, I decided to increase my hiking pace from a relax pace to average pace. Arrived at Pondok Lompoyou, located after the 4.5 km mark, at time 1156. Stopped there to snap photos and later continued the journey to the next shelter, Pondok Magnolia, located after 5.5 km mark. Stopped there to nap photos and later continued the journey to the T-junction. In 1995 and 1996, the T-junction did not exist and the Mesilau route was opened after year 2000.

At the T-junction, if you turn left, you will come down to Timpohon Gate. If you turn right, you will reach Laban Rata rest house. After reaching the T-junction, I felt bored with the hike to Laban Rata as the view was not that nice as compared to the Mesilau route. I felt bored and decided to listen to my MP3 player while hiking. The songs really motivated me to keep on going at a faster pace. I won’t listen to MP3 player if going for hiking at other mountain as it is too risky to do so. Arrived at the next shelter, Pondok Villosa, located after the T-junction and 4.5 km mark of the Timpohon trail, at time 1337. Decided to snap some photos before continuing to the next shelter.

Later, I continued my journey to the next shelter, Pondok Paka, located after 5 km mark of the Timpohon trail. Arrived at Pondok Paka at time 1400. Decided to snap some photos before continuing the journey. Fifty metres before reaching Laban Rata rest house, there was a sudden heavy rain. I did not have sufficient time to retrieve my poncho. When I retrieved my poncho from my knapsack, my body was already wet due to exposure to the rain. At that time, the weather was cold and I was sweating. Arrived at Laban Rata rest house at time 1438. Had my second lunch and then slept for a few hours. Later in the evening, I woke up to witness the sun set and had my dinner. I slept at time 2000.

27 MAY 2006

When I woke up, I had headache. I still remember in 1995 and 1996 when I reach Laban Rata rest house, I had headache and I took Panadol. The next day, I was fine and I managed to continue up to Low’s peak. This time early in the morning, I had headache. I guess it could be due to the cold I caught as a result of body exposure to heavy rain before reaching Laban Rata rest house yesterday. I really wanted to climb up to Low’s peak to witness the sunrise. I could still remember clearly what my teacher cum outdoor instructor, Mr. Zolkifly Abdul Majid, mentioned to the students in 1995. “If you have fever or headache, never ever attempt to climb this mountain as it may cause you further complications.” I decided not to take the risk in hiking up beyond Laban Rata as it I did not want to cause any further complication to myself and Tony (the team leader and organiser). After having my breakfast, I was even advised by one of the guide to rest and not to proceed when I was seeing other team members departing from Laban Rata rest house to the summit. At that time, I told myself that the question of reaching the summit was not so important. What was important was my own safety. I guess I made the right choice of not going up the summit when I had headache.

After resting for a few hours, I woke up at time 0500 and prepared myself to witness the sunrise from Laban Rata. The sun began to rise at time 0545. The view was magnificent. The weather in the morning was quite cold around 9 degree celcious. At time 0745, I was in the rest house to wait for the rest of the members to arrive. Had my lunch at time 1045. With the permission from Tony, at time 1059, I departed from Laban Rata rest house to Timpohon gate. I just wanted to reach Timpohon gate as fast as possible. So I decided to run instead of walking down. On the way down from Laban Rata rest house to the T-junction, the trail was slippery (due to rain) and steep. I could not run but only descend at a fast pace. It took me almost an hour from Laban Rata rest house to reach the T-junction. After that, I ran all the way down to Timpohon gate. Arrived at Timpohon gate at time 1252. Had to wait for a few hours (I guess three to four hours) for the rest of the members to reach Timpohon gate.

Later departed to Poring Hot Spring (my third time coming to this place) to stay overnight at the hostel.

28 MAY 2006

Woke up in the morning at time 0745 went to the hot spring to soak my legs inside. Later had breakfast. The next activity was hiking to the canopy walk. Departed from Poring Hot Spring at time 1120. Arrived at Kota Kinabalu at time 1330 to have seafood lunch. Later went to Filipino market to shop around. Left Terminal 2 of Kota Kinabalu International Airport at time 1850 for Kuala Lumpur. Arrived at LCCT, KLIA at time 2103.

Notes:

I managed to recall some of my experience in climbing Mt. Kinabalu (first mountain climbing trip) in 1995 from my log book. Here is the summary of my experience.

Date: 29/11/1995
Location: Timpohon gate
Start time: 0820
Distance: 8.72 km from Timpohon gate to the summit

Height: 4,101 metres (13,455 feet) (at that time that was the height of the recognised height of the mountain before it was measured using sophisticated equipment a few years later)

Timpohon gate to First Trail Shelter (Kandis Shelter) (15 minutes) (time 0820 to 0835) passing through Carson Falls and rested for a minute.

First Trail Shelter (Kandis Shelter) to Second Trail Shelter (Ubah Shelter) (12 minutes) (time 0836 to 0848).

Second Trail Shelter (Ubah Shelter) to Third Trail Shelter (Lowii Shelter) Arrived at time 0917.

Third Trail Shelter (Lowii Shelter) to Fourth Trail Shelter (Carson Camp, now called Mempening Shelter) Arrived at time 1002. After the third shelter onwards, had to use walking stick provided by the guide as my legs were too tired.

Fourth Trail Shelter (Carson Camp) to Fifth Trail Shelter (Villosa Shelter) Arrived at time 1047. Rested for five minutes.

Fifth Trail Shelter (Villosa Shelter) to Sixth Trail Shelter (Paka Cave Shelter) (50 minutes) (time 1052 to 1142)

Sixth Trail Shelter (Paka Cave Shelter) to Laban Rata rest house Arrived at time 1300.

Total time taken: 4 hr 40 min

Temperature: 15 degree celcius

Date: 30/11/1995
Location: Laban Rata rest house
Start time: 0300
Arrive time at Low’s peak: 0617
Time taken: 3 hr 17 min
Temperature: 3 degree celcius

Low’s Peak to Laban Rata rest house (2 hr 10 min) (Time 0700 to 0910)

Laban Rata rest house to Timpohon gate (2 hr 20 min) (Time 1020 to 1240)

I lost my log book for the 1996 expedition. What I could remember was I took almost 6 hours from Timpohon gate to Laban Rata rest house on 28/12/1996. The next day, the journey started at time 0300 and I arrived at the summit at time 0700. From Laban Rata rest house, I took 2 hr 9 min to reach Timpohon gate. I only walked down at a faster pace.

This time I took 1 hr 53 min from Laban Rata rest house to Timpohon gate. I ran down most of the time.

Although the Mesilau route was 2 km extra, the view from the Mesilau route was magnificent as compared with the Timpohon trail.

It has been almost 11 years since my first attempt and this was my first time I did not reach the summit due to conditions beyond my control. I have yet to witness the sunrise from Low’s peak. I don’t know when I will be able to do so in the future.

To me the question of witnessing the sunrise from the summit is not important as the safety aspect is the most important consideration. If you are not feeling well, do not take the risk in climbing. There is still another chance in the future.

I’ll be back to this mountain again one day. I’ll keep on trying until I manage to fulfil my wish of witnessing the sun rise from Low’s peak.

29 DECEMBER 1996 & 30 NOVEMBER 1995

2006-05-29T23:49:00.000+08:00

Photo taken on 29/12/1996 at 7.09 a.m.
Photo taken on 29/12/1996 at 7.07 am.

This photo was taken on 29/12/1996 at 7.03 am. Seating from left to right: Fang Hau, Min Wei (Ong), Wai Meng (Lai) and standing: Kok Teng (Hor) (Expedition leader).

I did not have the summit photo taken on 30/11/1995.

At that time, I was not physically fit and had to be motivated by my seniors to keep on going and not to give up. I missed the sunrise twice (i.e. did not have the opportunity to witness the sunrise from Low's peak) and other fast member managed to witness the sunrise from the summit.

Kok Teng, Min Wei and Wai Meng, if you happen to read blog, I would really appreciate it if you could just drop me an email (jasonlfh@gmail.com) as I had lost your contacts. Thanks.

MT. SUKU HIKING DETAILED REPORT

2006-05-22T01:58:00.001+08:00

12 May 2006

Departed from my house at 4.10 p.m. after fetching Wan Lin to Kelana Jaya to meet up with others. Departed from Kelana Jaya to Sungai Buloh rest area to meet up with other members. The journey to Kampar started at around 5 p.m. We had our dinner at Kampar. Later, we departed to Jeram. We stayed overnight at Jeram.

13 May 2006

Had breakfast at Jeram before departing to Simpang Pulai. I did not have to drive as Leong had offered to drive others to the entrance of Mt. Suku. The entrance of Mt. Suku is located after 32 km drive from Sinpang Pulai – Cameron Highlands road. Arrived at the entrance before time 0930. Started the journey at time 0930. Along the way to the summit there were two false peaks. Hikers had to hike almost all the way up to the summit. The steepness is approximately 45 to 50 degrees. We arrived at the summit after time 1230. We had our lunch on the summit.

From the summit, nothing much could be seen as most of the time thick clouds covered the view. At certain time, we could see the Simpang Pulai – Cameron Highlands road, Mt. Irau and Titiwangsa range. The summit weather was quite cooling.

We descended from the summit at time 1345. The trail at certain point was slippery and steep. I had to be extremely careful when descending from the summit. We reached the car park at around time 1645. Upon reaching the car park, I had some minor headache and had consumed a Panadol for relief. I had never experienced such condition before other than mountain sickness when ascending Mt. Kinabalu in 1996. This condition could be due to the body exposure to the cold wind on the summit after sweating.

I did not have any special feelings when reaching the summit of Suku. It was just a normal feeling that I had been to that place on that particular date. From my personal view point of this mountain, it is manageable to the beginners with sufficient level of fitness.

Each mountain has its own degree of difficulty. It is a challenge for a hiker to overcome it. No matter how tough you encounter in climbing mountains, you will still face the same problems when descending. In other words, there are ups and downs in our life and everything in this world is equal. I also agree with some people that when you have reached the summit of a mountain, it does not mean that you are great. The strong structure of the mountain summit will still be there for many years to come. It is just there you have been to that particular summit before on the specific date and time.

Back to Jeram and had our dinner at Kam Meng’s house.

14 May 2006

Had to leave early at around time 0800 (leaving Kam Meng and Leong) as Wan Lin had to rush back to his hometown at time 1430. Had breakfast at Kampar and then departed to Petaling Jaya. It was okay for me to miss the planned trip to Lata Kijang waterfall as there is always another chance to visit the fall in the future. Arrived at Petaling Jaya at time 1040.

MT. SUKU HIKING SUMMARY

2006-05-19T08:13:00.000+08:00

Date: 12 May 2006 to 14 May 2006
Location: 32 km after the Simpang Pulai – Cameron Highlands road
Hiking date: 13 May 2006
Time: 0930 (ascend) & 1340 (descend), reached car park at around time 1645
Who: Kam Meng (Captain), Wan Lin (Tiger), S.T. Lim, Lee Wai Leng, Chang Yan Yin, Ang Siew Ling, Wincent Wan, Wong Chee Sum, Chan Shiao Chew, Soon Loong (Leong), S. T. Tay, Fang Hau and Kam Meng’s parents
Height: 1,797 metres (5,894 feet)
Distance: 2.2 km from the starting point to the summit

Stay tune for the detail report.

MT. SUKU PHOTOS

2006-05-19T07:27:00.000+08:00

Misty day on the summit, fro left to right: Soon Loong (Leong), Wan Lin (Tiger) and Kam Meng
Mt. Suku entrance after 32 km drive from Simpang Pulai - Cameron Highlands road.
On the summit of Mt. Suku

On the way to Mt. Suku at Simpang Pulai - Cameron Highlands road.

For more photos go to http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jasonlfh/my_photos and select album Mt. Suku.

Stay tune for the detail report.

MT. NUANG DETAILED HIKING REPORT PART 3

2006-05-16T07:51:00.000+08:00

I tried to SMS Steven and call his mobile number but there was no response at all. At the same time, we met a group of Reserve Army coming down from their hiking trip in Nuang. We asked whether they had seen Steven but their reply was no. In our mind, there was a possibility that Steven could have hiked to Janda Baik but this was denied by one of the army officer as he was resting at Lolo camp throughout the day while waiting for other army officers to come down. We had some discussion with the army officer and we were advised to wait until time 2030 before making police report and inform Steven’s family. We followed the army’s advised. Approximately seven minutes before time 2030, at that time, we were still discussing our search and rescue plan, Steven suddenly appeared infront of us. I was totally surprised to see Steven coming out from the jungle trail in the darkness without torchlight.

According to Steven, he slept at the dam for one hour and later he hiked to Lolo campsite and then Pacat campsite. He was looking for us at the Pacat campsite but could not find us. He decided to sleep at one of the corner at the Pacat campsite. Until after time 1630, Steven decided to come down from Pacat campsite. He did not explain what he was doing after that. When the day was getting darker, Steven hiked at quite a slow pace as his torchlight was not functioning at all. According to him, he did not sleep at all the day before the Nuang hiking trip as he was drinking beer with his friend. This totally surprised us as we were quite worried about his safety. We left Nuang at approximately time 2050.

Lessons learned:

1. Never ever go for hiking if you do not have sufficient sleep as it is quite dangerous to yourself.
I had in the past experienced this situation which was almost similar but luckily nothing bad happen to me and the rest of the hiking team. We should have cancelled the trip halfway and escorted Steven back to the car park rather than leaving him to sleep at the dam although he was the most experienced amongst us. We felt that Steven should not have joined us and should have asked us to go without him in the first place.

2. Always communicate with your hiking friend clearly.
There was not any clear communication between us and Steven (i.e. miscommunication) and this had resulted such an unpleasant situation that nearly landed us into deep trouble.

3. Never ever check your SMS while hiking.
I made this blunder mistake while hiking behind Loong and this caused my right leg to accidentally kick into the tree roots. My right legs was pain and swollen. The injury was not so serious. At that time I was watching every step I took carefully but I made this blunder mistake and hurt myself.

4. Always ensure that your torchlight is functioning when hiking
Steven should have ensured his torchlight is functioning before hiking. Torchlight is one of the necessities if you are going for a day trip hiking as you may need it when the need arises.

Although Long and I managed to reach the summit without much problem, I was not so happy as Steven could not join us. In hiking, safety aspect of everyone should be the main priority before starting the journey. Steven was supposed to lead us but I ended up guiding Loong up to the summit and back to the car park. I realised that it is never easy to be a team leader as a team leader has more responsibility to the team mates and to himself to ensure everything goes according to plan.

MT. NUANG DETAILED HIKING REPORT PART 2

2006-05-11T16:16:00.000+08:00

We descended from the summit at time 1440. On the way down to Pacat, we met some inexperienced hikers descending at a very slow pace. We had to follow the pace until we had the opportunity to overtake them. I knew that I had to ask Loong to move at a fast pace as we had missed the cut off time by 40 minutes. Loong moved at a fast pace and I kept reminding him to watch out every step he took, as safety was our main concern. The journey down to Pacat was a little bit slow as the surface was slippery and steep. On the way down, I was surprised to see Wen Bing, Chui Miew’s climbing friend; on their way up to camp on the summit of Nuang. I understood that there were around 30 hikers planning to camp on the summit of Nuang and hiking to Janda Baik the next day through Pengasih Summit.

We arrived at Pacat campsite at time 1604, i.e. 6 minutes earlier than our EAT of 1610. We took 6 minutes break to snap photos and to hydrate ourselves. We could not find Steven. Our thinking was that Steven could be waiting for us at Lolo campsite. We decided to descend to Lolo campsite at time 1610. This time, I really had to pressure Loong to go down at a very fast pace as we had to catch up with the time lost. Our final target was to reach the car park before time 1900. Otherwise, it was going to be quite dark for us to see the trail. At certain point, Loong’s leg was getting tired and his mind was getting blurred. I was requested to lead the way and I agreed to his request. I led the way until a certain point whereby I felt comfortable for Loong to be in front and I stayed behind as an anchorman. I kept on reminding Loong to be faster and watch out every step he took carefully as the day was getting darker.

At time 1714,we arrived at Lolo campsite. We were off the scheduled time by 4 minutes. We could not find Steven. Our thinking was that Steven could be waiting for us at the dam. When we reached the dam, we could not find Steven. Steven could be waiting for us at the car park. As the day was getting darker, we decided to descend to the car park at time 1718. Our next target was to reach the car park before time 1900. It started to rain heavily. We had to put on our ponchos when descending. At certain point of time, Loong asked me to be in front but I insisted that I had to be behind to look after him. As Loong was getting tired, I kept on motivating him and told him that the car park was getting nearer. I wanted to overtake him but as an anchorman I had to stay behind to look after him. I had to follow his pace even though he was getting tired and motivate him to go faster. At certain point, Loong was worried whether I was following him but I replied to him that I was following him very closely and watching every footstep he took.

Finally, at time 1841 we finally arrived at the car park. Loong was tired and he had to rest for a while at the bench, i.e. the registration booth. We still could not find Steven at the car park.

Stay tune for third part of the report.

MT. NUANG HIKING DETAILED REPORT

2006-05-05T13:47:00.000+08:00

Initially, it was Ng Ping Loong (PM24) (Loong) who wanted me to take him to Nuang. Since, I was quite free during the weekend, I agreed to take Loong to climb Mt. Nuang with the help from Steven Ng (Loong’s friend) and to let him experience the challenge in climbing Mt. Nuang.

Hiking equipment checklist
1. Torchlight
2. Whistle
3. Small compass
4. Map (just for me to recognise the way to drive to Nuang)
5. Hiking boots
6. Deuter waist pouch
7. Personal first aid kit
8. Walking stick (just in case someone needs it)
9. Knapsack
10. Penknife
11. 2.5 litres of water & 500 ml of isotonic drink
12. Lunch and fruits
13. Extra Powerbar, Powergel and chocolate bars (just in case someone needs it)
14. Extra clothing

Mt. Nuang hiking eve

This was my third time climbing Mt. Nuang. Before the trip, I was worried whether Loong will be able to make it to the summit. Loong was still a junior in climbing as he had climbed Mt. Bunga Buah, Mt. Angsi and Mt. Kinabalu. I told myself that I should let Loong to climb at his own comfortable pace and not to pressure him, as this was his first time climbing Nuang. No matter what happened (i.e. whether Loong reached the summit or fail to reach the summit or how fast or slow the pace was) safety aspects of was the main priority in hiking. I was confident that I could guide Loong successfully to the summit without much problem with the help from Steven.

Mt. Nuang hiking day

Drove to Shell Petrol Station at Bandar Tasik Selatan to meet up with Loong and Steven at 6.45 a.m. We waited for Steven for about 20 minutes and he came to meet us at 7.15 a.m. Then we started our journey to Nuang. Had to stop half way after passing Hulu Langat town for Steven to buy his lunch. Everyone had taken his or her own breakfast, as it would save our time in Nuang. We arrived at the car park of Nuang at 8.10 a.m. There were many cars at the car park as the next day was a public holiday. We had to register ourselves at the Ranger Office before being allowed to proceed with the hike.

The hike started at 8.27 a.m. Usually, I would like to go in front and let Steven (the most experienced hiker among us) to stay behind (anchorman). This time I told Steven to be in front and I stayed behind (anchorman) to guide Loong to the summit. I told Steven to lead the way and Loong and myself will follow from behind and to stop for a while if the pace was too fast for us to follow. Initially, the pace by Steven and Loong was too slow. I had no choice but to follow their pace and since this was the first time for Loong in hiking to Nuang, I must not pressure him to go at a faster pace. I just focused on my hike from behind and we targeted to reach Lolo campsite by 10.27 a.m. At certain point in time, Steven’s pace was quite fast and he would only stopped when he was tired and needed water break. I knew that I could go at a fast pace with Steven but there was no point in doing so since Loong was still inexperienced in Nuang as compared with Steven and me. I had to guide him carefully to the summit. At certain point (a few times) Steven’s pace suddenly slowed down and he had to stop for a while to rest. Loong and myself also stopped to check whether Steven’s condition was all right. From my observation, Steven’s condition looked like an unfit hiker and he was getting tired before reaching the dam and when trekking up a small hill slope. I was really surprised to look at his condition as I had never seen him like this before in our previous hiking trip and he was always faster than me. We reached the dam at 10.00 a.m. I told Loong that we had to move faster in order to meet our scheduled time of 1027. At the dam, Steven requested us to wait for him at Pacat for one hour, as he wanted to sleep for one hour at the dam. We asked Steven whether he was all right and he replied that he needed to sleep for one hour. I told him that if we were to wait for him for one hour at Pacat, we would already exceeded our cut-off time of 1400 before reaching the summit and we may have to descend even we did not manage to reach the summit. It would be too risky to continue, as the day would be getting darker by then when we descend from the summit. To me the question of me reaching the summit or not reaching the summit was not important. What was important was to ensure that Loong and Steven reached the summit safely. It was not our intention to leave Steven alone. Steven insisted that we leave him alone and then asked us to proceed with our journey to the summit as he just need to sleep for an hour at the dam. He was experienced enough to take care of himself. We decided to proceed without Steven and the responsibility of the safety fell on me. My mind was still thinking what was wrong with Steven.

At time 1027, we Loong and I managed to reach Lolo campsite without much problem. We were on scheduled time. We decided to take a short break for approximately three minutes and snap photos. Later, we continued our journey to Pacat campsite. Our next Estimated Arrive Time (EAT) for Pacat campsite was time 1200. We managed to arrive at Pacat campsite at time 1155, i.e. 5 minutes ahead of the EAT. Since we arrive earlier, we decided to take a fifteen minutes break to hydrate ourselves, snap photos and chit-chat with other climbers. This time the surroundings at Pacat was different from the last time I was at that place on 10 January 2006. There were bees flying around. Luckily, the bees did not stink us.

The hike from Pacat to the summit took us almost two hours. At certain point, Loong kept asking how far more to the summit. My reply to him was “keep on going, it’s getting nearer”. I told Loong not to rush and go at his own pace and safety was the most important aspect of the hiking trip. Halfway through to the summit, there was a peak called Pengasih Peak. If you turn left, the route would lead you down to a valley and up to the summit of Nuang. If you take the right turn, it would lead you to Janda Baik, Pahang. (Sorry, forgot to snap photo on Pengasih summit) When I was hiking at this point, I was very cautious with every step I took, as I did not want to have any mishaps and not to expose my swollen left thumb, which was still recovering at that time. In the past when climbing Nuang, there are some experienced hikers to guide me from Pacat and to show me the safest step to climb up the steep hill. This time, I had to figure it out myself since I was guiding Loong from behind. Loong did not have much problem going up the steep hill. As the time passed 1340, i.e. the EAT, we still have not reached the summit. I decided to let Loong to continue his hike at his own comfortable pace and follow from behind. I knew that we are going to exceed our cut off time of 1400 to descend from the summit. I decided to take some risk in continuing the journey as I had the confident that Loong and I would be able to descend from the summit and reach the car park safely before time 1900. At the point when almost reaching the summit, there was a left and right turn. The left turn was quite steep and risky to climb. Since, I had tried the left turn before, I decided to take the right turn. The right turn was not so steep and less risky. The right turn was actually the back entrance to the summit of Nuang. I arrived at the summit at time 1406 and Loong arrived at the summit a few minutes earlier than me. We had our lunch on the summit and snap some photos.

Stay tune for second part of the report.

MT. NUANG PHOTOS

2006-05-03T20:43:00.000+08:00

Pacat campsite was not as shown in the photo when I first came here on 23 July 2005. At that time you still can see trees around you. I was here on 10 January 2006 and 30 April 2006. The landscape had changed as a result of logging activity or deforestation. Agree with me ?

Ping Loong having a short break at Pacat campsite.

Ping Loong, you have good talent in climbing. From what I observed you, your fitness level really surprised me although you climbed Mt. Nuang for the first time and you are still inexperienced in climbing. Loong can do it. Ronnie, DK, when is your turn ???

Ping Loong and Fang Hau on the summit of Mt. Nuang. Well done Loong. You made it to the summit without much problem. Upon reaching the summit we were not tired at all.

On the summit of Mt. Nuang

To view more photos, click the following link

http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jasonlfh/my_photos

and select album 2006-05-01.

MT. NUANG PHOTO FROM LOONG

2006-05-03T20:18:00.000+08:00

the light from the heaven shine me and jason.
when is time to reach the heaven

I don't quite remember which location of Mt. Nuang this picture was snap shot.

This picture was snapshot from Ng Ping Loong's digital camera. Thanks for the photo.

MT. NUANG HIKING SUMMARY

2006-05-02T00:11:00.000+08:00

Date: 30/4/2006
Time: 0827
Location: Pangsun, Hulu Langat, Selangor
Who: Ng Ping Loong (PM24), Steven Ng (PM24's friend) & Lim Fang Hau
Activity: 1 day hike from the car park to the summit and return to the car park

Will post more photos with full report later.

For photos please view it at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jasonlfh/my_photos

and select album 2006-05-01.

BACTERIAL INFECTION

2006-04-26T00:41:00.000+08:00

Currently, my left hand thumb have been in pain and swollen condition since Sunday, 23 April 2006 as I was diagnosed with bacterial infection. It is quite painful if I press my left thumb or I bend my lef thumb 90 degrees. I was given an Antibiotic injection on my buttock on Monday, 24 April 2006 to prevent the infection from spreading. At this moment, I am still on Antibiotic and pain medication for 1 week. My next appointment will be on 8 May 2006. Cycling is totally a no no for me as it will be very painful for my sollen left thumb if I were to hold the handle bar of the bicycle tightly. I can only go for running or hiking at this moment unless my left thumb is totally cured.

23 APRIL 2006

2006-04-26T00:35:00.000+08:00

Location: TTDI Park
Time: 6.00 a.m.
Activity: Run from TTDI Park to Petronas Station in Sri Hartamas and ran back to TTDI Park with Wan Lin
Distance: Approximately 13 km
Timing: 1 hr 17 min 32.07 sec

Initially we plan to go to Desa Sri Hartamas (additional 3 km) but had to rush back as Wan Lin had class to attend at 9.00 a.m.

22 APRIL 2006

2006-04-25T07:49:00.000+08:00

Activity: Run from TTDI Park to the hill (outside the park) and back to TTDI Park

Time: 7.30 p.m.

Date: 22/4/2006

Distance: 6.5 km

Timing: 45 min 57.29 sec

Observation note:1. Night vision not so good and no street light on the hill. Therefore, it is not advisable to run at night running upwards the hill (outside hill) at TTDI Parkas I nearly fell down when runnng downhill at a slower speed as my leg accidentally kicked the tree branches lying on the middle of the road.

CONCIOUS AND ALERT MIND

2006-04-24T03:23:00.002+08:00

This is what can happen to you (and it happened to my running friend) if you do not have enough sleep for the past 1 week and you decided to go for a long run or short run. The email is from my running friend few weeks back:

Do not think that leg condition gud mean that u can run. If u r not conciuos, I mean ur mind is tired & u still stubborn to run, below may happen to u.
Case 1.
Left leg kick right leg or vice versa, this will cause u fall down hard depend on how fast is ur speed ¡s the faster it get, the harder it fall¡ng situation can get worst if there is a car speeding around & can't c u who in lay down in road site

Case 2.
Looping. Want 2 skip DB hill when return fr hartamas, after pass the entry for DB hill, I tot my suffering run come 2 an end. But all those unfamiliar building keep on appear, I turn & twist seem to be can't find a way to go back my start point. Finally I see my most familiar road sign, Girdle, I confirm I am in reverse DB hill route stun with tired mind, totally collapse & struggling to decide, go to DB route & end in tugu Negara? Or go back to the entry point of DB hill near by stadium uhuk* both also is mission impossible to me sigh* just continue walk back to the stadium & find out what is the mistake I make after resolve the mystery nusantara, I walk the remaining of journey it take more than 3hrs to complete a 20k, not even qualified 4 a cert of completion in what ever category, senior veteran, women, women veteran or even a baby open.

In conclusion, if your mind is not concious, you may end uphaving a fall when running or you may even lose your direction when running. So, be alert and concious when running.

15 – 16 APRIL 2006

2006-04-24T03:02:00.000+08:00

Activity: Hiking and camping at Mt. Ophir (Ledang)
Persons in the trip: Tony Quay (Penguin 3), Kelvin Lee, Leslie, Siok Bee, Angie, Anthony (Tony’s friend) and family and 2 guides (compulsory) to accompany us from Ayer Panas check point to the summit.
Total number of hikers: 21

Started the journey from the KL at 6.15 a.m. This was my second trip to Mt. Ophir. I could still remember in 1990 I was at the water fall site (the foot hill) of Mt Ophir. Mt. Ophir is the highest mountain in Johor with the height of 1,276 metres.

Arrived at Seremban at 7.00 a.m. to have breakfast. Proceeded to Tangkak and arrived at Tangkak at 9.30 a.m. to have second round of breakfast cum lunch. Proceeded to the National Park of Johor, in Sagil at 10.25 a.m. The ascend to Mt. Ophir started at 11.15 a.m. I was assigned to carry additional food and Bunsen burner. My back pack could store these items without much problem. Trekking with heavy back pack was quite challenging for me as I could not move at a faster pace. It took us more than 3 hours to reach Check Point 4 (if I am not mistaken, Kolam Gajah). We decided to camp at Check Point 4.

After reaching Check Point 4, Tony, the team leader, had a discussion with those who wanted to ascend to the summit. We were told by the guides that the time is limited and we would take 4 hours to reach the summit (most probably reach the summit at 7 p.m.). Option 1: we could reach the summit late in the evening and back to Check Point 4 campsite at around 10 to 11 p.m. Option 2: we could start hiking at 3.00 a.m. and reached the summit to see the sun rise and back to Check Point 4 campsite before 10 a.m. Only eight climbers decided to ascend the summit. The majority of the 8 climbers decided to go for option 1.

I forgot to bring my small knapsack to store essential stuffs for the ascend. I had to put everything into my Deuter waist pouch with the exception of poncho (kept in Tony’s knapsack).

This time, Tony instructed the entire team to go at a faster pace to reach the summit. The cut-off time was set at 1815. If we could not reach the summit by 1815 we had to return to Check Point 4 campsite as it would be too dangerous to continue trekking at night. There were to guides following us to the summit. I decided to trek at a faster pace by following closely the pace set by the guide. Tony and the other guide acted as the anchormen. The route to the summit was not dry and not so challenging as compared to other mountains I have climbed. I was requested by the guide to stop for around 5 to 10 minutes for 3 times as my pace was too fast for others to follow. On the request of the guide, I obeyed his instruction to wait for other team mates. After the third time the guide requested me to stop for 5 to 10 minutes and the guide had a discussion with his colleague and Tony. It was decided that the 3 lady hikers to be lead the way so that the overall pace of the team could be controlled. I just followed the pace set by the ladies and just hoped that we could reach the summit before the cut-off time.

On the way to the summit, I bumped into Ervinna Hon (Woof, PM31) and her climbing friends. There were on their way descending the summit. Somewhere after Check Point 5, when ascending the summit, there was a group of climbers descending the summit with a guide leading the group. At certain point of meeting the descending group, I was told by the descending guide to watch out my foot step s there was a snake. When I looked at the tree roots, to my surprise I saw a baby snake (black, yellow and orange colour skin) and it looked poisonous by looking at its sting. I quickly alerted other team members to avoid crossing the right side of the tree roots.

Certain part of the summit requires climbers to use the ladders and ropes. Everyone in the team including the guides wore their hand gloves for ascending the paths with ropes. I forgot to bring my hand gloves. I had to climb with the rope with my bare hands.

After trekking for almost 3 hours, we managed to reach the summit at time 1800. We managed to beat the cut-off time of 1815. We spent half an hour on the summit before descending. When descending from the summit, I had height phobia when using the ropes and ladders. I had to descend slowly from the ropes and ladders. I had some minor cut on my left arm when descending suing the ropes as my foot suddenly slipped from the stable position due to slippery surface on certain part of the rocks. At that time, I managed to hold on to the ropes tightly and managed to stabilise myself. At 7.40 p.m., it was totally dark and we had to switch on our torch lights to continue our journey. I had to watch out my steps very carefully as I could not speed down as I did before the day was dark. I did not like trekking in the darkness as I have night vision was poor as compared to pre September 2002 (I had my LASIK surgery to correct my short-sighted eyes). When reaching Check Point 5 campsite, I saw a group of Muslim campers praying. With calm mind, the guide and I just walk past the praying group without disturbing them. At that point of time, other team mates have left me as I was quite slow in descending the ropes and ladders due to height phobia. I was accompanied by the 1 guide and the other guide accompanied the remaining 7 climbers.

At around 9.15 p.m., I managed to reach Check Point 4 campsite. The other team mates were having dinner and they had been waiting for me for around 15 minutes. Had my dinner and went to bed at around 11.30 p.m.

The next day, we descended from Check Point 4 at around 11 a.m. We reached the starting point at around 12.15 p.m. Then, we proceeded to Malacca to have our lunch. We reached KL at around 5.30 p.m.

Lessons learned

1. When trekking, do not ever set a pace that is too fast for your team mates to follow. I only realised this after returning home on 16 April 2006. That could be the reason for the guide to request me to stop for 5 to 10 minutes to wait for the other team mates and to have the 3 lady hikers to lead the way to the summit. Ideally, the overall pace for the team should not be too far apart from each others.

My opinion: The guide did a very good job in terms of leadership and co-ordinating the overall pace of the team.

2. In mountain climbing, it is not how fit or fast you take to reach the summit. What is important is the safety aspect and team cohesiveness. That was why I was lectured by Tony the next day on the importance of using hand gloves when holding the ropes for climbing. Using gloves could act as a safety feature especially when holding the ropes as it provides a stronger grip if there were any mishaps. This is safer as compared with holding the ropes with bare hands.

My opinion: The guide set good example by holding the ropes for climbing with hand gloves even though the distance of the ropes is very short. Based on other climbing trips that I had joined previously, this basic safety aspect was not considered by other climbers including myself.

3. In what ever climbing trips we plan to go, the basic safety aspects has to be considered rather than enjoying the fun and adventure of hiking. There are more things to be learned in climbing rather than climbing blindly without considering other factors.

Points of observation

1. The guides had first aid kit with them even though the team leader had one. It’s important to have one just in case there is a need to use it.

2. The guide used walking stick when trekking in the darkness. Even though I did not use waling stick for the entire hiking trip, it is quite helpful especially when descending hills that are quite slippery and moderately steep. I am still puzzled on why the guide uses his walking stick when trekking at night. In my opinion, the use of walking stick when trekking at night could act as an aid to a person in preventing any mishaps or for other reasons. Do you agree with me or if you have other view points just share it out.

Notes:

1. This was my first camping experience in the jungle since 1996. My last camping experience in the jungle was camping at Mt. Berembun, Cameron Highlands in May 1996.
2. Although this is quite a detailed account of my recent hiking experience, any feedback whether it is a positive feedback or constructive criticism is certainly welcomed. Do post a comment or email me if you wish to do so.

MT. OPHIR (LEDANG) PHOTOS

2006-04-23T12:27:00.000+08:00

Photo 1: Snap shot on 15 April 2006, time: 1816 from the summit of Mt. Ophir.

Photo 2: Snap shot on 15 April 2006, time: 1816 from the summit of Mt. Ophir.

Photo 3: Snap shot on 15 April 2006, time: 1816 from the summit of Mt. Ophir. If you ascend from Asahan, you will reach the summit via this ladder.

Photo 4: Snap shot on 15 April 2006, time: 1817 from the summit of Mt. Ophir. The view from the summit on the Asahan trail.

Photo 5: Snap shot on 15 April 2006, time: 1817 from the summit of Mt. Ophir.

Photo 6: Snap shot on 15 April 2006, time: 1815 from the summit of Mt. Ophir.

Photo 7: Snap shot on 15 April 2006, time: 1439 from Check Point 4 campsite.

Photo 8: Snap shot on 15 April 2006, time: 1205 at Check Point 1.

Photo 9: Snap shot on 15 April 2006, time: 1814 from the summit of Mt. Ophir. Sun set photo.

Photo 10: Snap shot on 15 April 2006, time: 1815 from the summit of Mt. Ophir. Telecommunication tower / equipment covered by mist.

Photo 1, 2, 5 & 6: Act of vandalism ? Quite sad when viewing these photos. The route to the sumit was quite clean but when you reach the summit, you could see this kind of graffiti and you paid for the guide and permit fee for the hiking trip (complusory as Mt. Ophir is under the control and surveillance of the National Park of Johor). This is the kind of view you can see in other mountains in Malaysia namely Nuang, Angsi and etc.

To view other photos go to http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jasonlfh/my_photos

and select album 2006-04-15 and 2006-04-16.

11 APRIL 2006 LSD PHOTOS

2006-04-12T00:08:00.000+08:00

To view the photos go to http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jasonlfh/my_photos

and select album 2006-04-11.

11 APRIL 2006

2006-04-11T20:33:00.000+08:00

Date: 11/4/2006
Time: 6.00 a.m.
Location: Bukit Aman car park
Activity: Run from the car park to Sri Hartamas and back to the car park via Bank Negara route
Distance: 20.2 km
Timing: 2 hr 7 min+
Split time: 31 min+ at Jalan Duta
57 min 36 sec at Petronas Station
1 hr 33 min+ at Jalan Duta
2 hr 7 min+

I missed my LSD so much. The last time I did my LSD at Bukit Aman was on 25 February 2006 i.e. 1 week before KLIM 2006. It has been 1.5 months I did not come to Bukit Aman for the run. My last LSD was on 12 March 2006 at TTDI Park. It has been 1 month I did not do my LSD.

This time I carry my new Deuter pouch for the run. This pouch is heavier than the New Balance pouch. I put my digital camera into the pouch in order to experiment the effect on my timing for the long run. Although the Deuter pouch is heavier than the New Balance pouch, I felt very comfortable using the Deuter pouch. I ran at normal pace to Hartamas with the pouch. My split time was normal notwithstanding with the fact that I had not been doing my long run for 1 month.

When I reached Hartamas station, I spent a few minutes trying to snapshoot pictures. Then, I continued with my run until certain point where I had to stop for a few minutes to fasten my pouch. I did not tighten my pouch properly at Bukit Aman. On my way back, I ran at quite a relaxed pace as I did not want to push myself.

Overall, I discovered that with additional weight from my digital camera in a heavier pouch, I still managed to maintain my normal performance and timing even though I had not been doing my long run for 1 month.

Note: In future, I’ll carry my digital camera for races if I am not serious on my timing and performance. I’ll post the photos when free.

9 April 2006

2006-04-10T13:26:00.000+08:00

Date: 9/4/2006
Place: Sungai Chongkak, Hulu Langat
Activity: Hiking
Time: 10.00 a.m.

Went to hiking trip with Kam Meng, Boon Keat, Wen Bing & friends. We got lost as we were not able to locate the correct trail to Bt. Chenuang. We had to abandon our plan by noon. The hiking trip had turned to a picnic trip whereby we spent quite some time at the riverside. I got more than 20 scars on my legs as the leeches sucked my blood when trekking in the jungle. This is more than what I got during the Bukit Kutu trip (around 6 to 10 scars).

Date: 9/4/2006
Place: TTDI Park
Activity: Running from the park to the hill (outside the park and back to the park)
Time: 6.40 p.m.
Distance: 6.5 km
Timing: 40 min 49.81sec

I felt that I was not tired from the trip to Sungai Chongkak and therefore I decided to run as my mileage for the week was 6.5 km. Felt relief as I managed to sweat out and still managed to maintain my normal performance.

2 April 2006

2006-04-07T11:52:00.000+08:00

Date: 2/4/206
Place: Putrajaya
Activity: Cycling
Distance: 31.42 km
Average speed: 20 km/hr to 30 km/hr
Top speed: 33 km/hr (going down hill)
Starting time: 8.04 a.m.
Timing: 2 hr 42 min+

Quite a bad day for me. Half an hour before the ride, I had to look for toilet to perch (“Lau Sai”). Felt comfortable after perching. The day before the ride, I had my bicycle seat adjusted with the hope that it will not give me pain on my buttock.

Starting the ride, I was struggling most of the time to fit my right leg into the cycling hook. After trying more than 10 times, my legs managed to get into the cycling hook. I managed to cycled at quite a comfortable pace and speed around 20 km/hr to 30 km/hr after changing to the fastest gear. The fun part as cruising downhill with the fastest gear at a speed of 33 km/hr (i.e. the maximum measurement of the speedometer). Based on my judgement, I believe the speed of cruising downhill was even faster than 33 km/hr.

When cycling uphill, this was the toughest part. I had to use all my strength on my thigh muscles to propel me up. My cycling speed gradually reduced until 9 km/hr when going uphill. Whenever I took a break or stop at the traffic light junction, I had problem to get my right leg back into the cycling hook. Most of my time was spent trying to get my right leg into the cycling hook as I was not used to it. Perhaps with a few more rides or practices, I should be able to get used to it.

Overall, this ride was better compared with the first one. The pain on my buttock was not so painful as compared with the first ride after adjusting my cycling seat. I’ll gradually increase my cycling distance before joining a long ride.

1 April 2006

2006-04-07T11:09:00.000+08:00

Date: 1/4/2006

Time: 7.30 a.m.

Location: TTDI Park

Activity: Ran from the perk to the hill (outside the park) and ran back to the park

Timing: 41 min 14.68 sec

Distance: 6.5 km

I have not been running for the past 17 days due to busy training schedule. The last time I took a long break fro running was after the Malacca Marathon 2005 (14 days break). Felt fresh and good after the run. Managed to maintain my usual performance in running after a long break.

BUKIT KUTU PHOTOS

2006-04-05T23:11:00.000+08:00

Fang Hau trying self balancing to cross the river and smiling Rho Wen with her bag and shoes
Wan Lin, the organiser and the captain who led us for the hiking trip
Rho Wen, Phyllis and Fang Hau crossing the river

Wan Lin, Fang Hau, Phyllis, Chui Miew and Rho Wen on the way back after descendng from Bukit Kutu

Note: Thanks to Mr. Tey for the photos.

BUKIT KUTU ON 26 MARCH 2006

2006-04-05T21:32:00.000+08:00

Date: 26 March 2006
Bukit Kutu
Height: 1,100 metres
Location: Kuala Kubu Bahru

I have not been updating my blog for quite some time due to my busy and hectic training schedule.

I decided to go for this trip as I missed mountain climbing for quite some time. My last climb was Mt. Nuang on 10 January 2006. Another reason for me to go was to relax myself and enjoy the nature trail to Bukit Kutu.

Bukit Kutu hiking eve

I have not been running for the past ten days. I was quite busy on my assignment and I had to sacrifice my sleeping hours for the past five days to complete my part of the assignment. I missed my Saturday morning run due to the urgency of completing my assignment. I told myself; by hook or by crook I have to finish my assignment before going to Bukit Kutu. If I could not finish my assignment or I became sick, then I have to sacrifice the trip. I managed to finish my part of the assignment at 2.30 a.m. in the morning on 26 March 2006. Then, I spent half an hour packing my things for the hiking trip before going to bed at 3.00 a.m.

Bukit Kutu hiking day

Woke up at 5.00 a.m. to have my breakfast at home. It was still raining. I was thinking whether the trip will be cancelled. As the hiking trip has been planned, I assumed the trip will proceed as usual unless I received a call from the captain. Departed to Wan Lin’s (the captain) house in Section 17 to meet with others (Mr. Tey, Rho Wen, Chui Miew and Phyllis) at 5.50 a.m. Arrived at Section 17 at 6.00 a.m. and departed to Kuala Kubu Bahru at 6.05 a.m. Arrived at Kuala Kubu Bahru at 7.30 a.m. to have breakfast and later proceeded to the starting point.

The hiking to Bukit Kutu started at 8.30 a.m. The journey at the initial stage involves crossing a few rivers and trekking on the jungle trail. After crossing 5 rivers, we took the left turn at the junction. We got lost for approximately one hour. Luckily, the captain and Wen Bing (another climbing group leader) managed to find the correct way. We should have taken the right turn instead of the left one after the fifth river.

After entering the correct way, the journey became more challenging as we need to move up and down the jungle terrain. The route to the summit was mostly ascending and it requires some physical fitness to hike. At certain point, we had to crawl over the fallen bamboos or tree trunks. I was struggling to move up the ascending terrain. I was told by the captain to throw away my walking stick and try not to rely on it when climbing. I was struggling without the walking stick. When I asked how long to the summit, I was told not to ask too much and just focus on the journey to the summit. Although my legs were getting tired, I told myself to focus on the hike and not think too much about the tiredness. At 12.30 p.m., I managed to reach the summit (approximately 12 minutes behind Mr. Tey, Rho Wen, Chui Miew and Phyllis). On the summit there were two huge rocks to climb. We were told not to climb the rock (the highest point) as it was too dangerous to attempt it. I rested for 15 minutes and had my lunch.

At 12.45 p.m., it suddenly rained. I immediately put on my poncho. We descended from the summit. The surface was quite slippery and we had to be very careful when descending. At 3.15 p.m., we reached the main entrance i.e. the starting point.

After cleaning myself, I discovered that certain part of my legs was bleeding as it was bitten by leaches. We departed from the starting point to Ulu Yam for food and then departed to Petaling Jaya. As compared with Mt. Angsi, Mt. Bunga Buah and Mt. Datuk, Bukit Kutu is moderately challenging especially the terrain towards the summit i.e. after the fifth river. Thanks to Wan Lin for organising the trip and leading us.

BIKING

2006-03-19T23:41:00.000+08:00

Saturday, 18 March 2006

Woke up late at 8.30 a.m. Missed my morning run. Decided to try biking in the evening at Taman Aman. I am still a novice in biking. My previous biking experience in biking is as follows:

-February 1997, Pangkor Island ride. Cycled around the whole Pangkor Island in mountain bike in 2 hr+.

-Late September 2003, Sentosa Island. Cycled around the entire Sentosa Island in mountain bike.

-Early October 2003, East Coast Park, Singapore. Cycled the entire East Coast Park in 1.5 hr+ with a mountain bike.

I tried to cycle using a racing bike around the car park area of Taman Aman. My aim was to familiarise myself with the racing bike. When I tried to cycle for the first time using racing bike, I fell down from the bike as I had problem balancing myself. Cycled around the car park area for 6.5 km. Decided to try to cycle in Putrajaya instead of Puchong the next day as it has less cars during the weekend.

Sunday, 19 March 2006

Drove to Putrajaya in at 7 a.m. and arrived there in 45 minutes. Parked my car at the open space parking near Dataran Putrajaya (approximately 2 km away from Dataran Putrajaya). Started my cycling journey with racing bike around Putrajaya at 8.03 a.m. The weather was fine and there were not much vehicles. Most of the road was flat although certain streches consist of hills. At certain streches of the road, I nearly fell down from my bike due to uneven road condition. I was cruising at around 20 km/hr. Luckily, I managed to balanced myself. Total distance covered was 26.75 km in 2 hr 12 min+. Average speed was around 10 km/hr to 20 km/hr. Top speed was 28 km/hr. Had to do 3 pitstops (water break for 2 to 3 minutes) for every 9 to 10 km as I felt the pain on my buttock.

I found myself sweating less in cycling as compared to running. Is my cycling speed too slow ...?

Is it very normal for every cyclist to experience pain on the buttock everytime he or she goes for a long ride ?

After cycling for more than an hour, I also found both of my hands numb when holding the handle bars on my bike. Is it due to lack of salt content on my body or I am not used to riding a racing bike ?

Overall, I found cycling more interesting rather than pure running but I felt the pain on my buttock when cycling on a racing bike as compared to a mountain bike. Cycling uses more on the thigh muscles as compared to running on calf muscles. Hmm...still have a lot to learn to improve myself in cycling.

KLIM 2006 DETAILED REPORT

2006-03-13T07:59:00.000+08:00

Race day (5 March 2006)

Woke up at 3 am after 4 hours of sleep. Had Powerbar, 3 bananas, orange and apple for breakfast. Departed to Dataran Merdeka at 3.40 am. Arrived there at 4.05 am and chatted with some running friends. The race started at 5.am. My actual body condition was fine as I recovered from flu one week ago. I did not set any high expectations. I told myself that as long as I can run sub-5 hr without hitting the wall, then I should be happy and satisfied with my achievement as I had a disastrous outing in the Singapore Marathon 2005 (refer to the report in December 2005). I applied some deep heat rub on my legs before the starting.

First 5 km

Everything was fine. Ran at a very relaxed mood with love music from MP3 player. Timing 27 min +. Started drinking my plum powder drink before the 5 km mark. Body condition was fine. The mucus flowing from my nose making me a little discomfort when running.

10 km mark

Everything was fine. Ran at a very relaxed mood and consistent pace with love music from MP3 player. Timing 27 min +. Drank some plum powder drink before the 10 km mark. Body condition was fine. The mucus flowing from my nose making me a little discomfort when running. Before the 10 km mark, saw Tey and Phyllis overtaking me and I just ignored them and stayed focused. Time split was 57 min 8 sec (chip time). Slight improvement of 3 minutes as compared to last year’s KLIM 2005 i.e. 59 min 30 sec.

15 km mark

My running pace became too relaxed and I was still addicted and enjoyed with the songs from the MP3 player to the extent of shaking my head up and down and singing while running. Body condition was fine. The mucus flowing from my nose making me a little discomfort when running. Drank some plum powder drink before the 15 km mark. My timing split was 1 hr 31 min+.

20 km mark

Body condition was still fine. The mucus flowing from my nose making me a little discomfort when running. My running pace was still very relaxed. Drank some plum powder drink before the 20 km mark. I consumed my first Powergel at this point. My split time was 2 hr 6 min+.

21 km mark

Still running at a very relaxed pace. My timing split (chip time) was 2 hr 13 min 24 sec. As compared to KLIM 2005, i.e. 2 hr 22 min 7 sec (chip time), this indicated some improvement of approximately 8 min+.

25 km mark

Still running at a very relaxed pace. The route was the same as last year. One of the routes was turning into Jalan Sultan Ismail. I saw Menara Boustead. This is the building where my office is. I missed office and I have not been to the office for more than a month. This motivated me to go faster. Before the 25 km mark, I saw Chong Wah and Chui Miew passing through me. I still continued running at a relaxed pace. I drank some plum powder drink before the 25 km mark. When I reached the 25 km mark, my timing split was 2 hr 40 min+.

30 km mark

My running pace was still relaxed. Somewhere at Jalan Raja Laut, I was running behind Chui Miew and I saw her heading towards the public toilet. I continued running and when I reached Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, I saw Uncle Hooi overtaking me. I still continued running at a relaxed pace and later Ching Tai overtook me. Later, Chui Miew overtook me. After the 28 km mark, I had finished my plum powder drink I still had 5 small packets of plum powder to be used after 30 km mark. Somewhere before the 30 km mark, I saw Mr. A. P. Tan, a Pacesetters member who ran the MR25 Ultra Marathon (clocking 10.5 hours by covering 73.5 km) on 25 December 2005 with me stretching his legs. I was told that Mr. A. P. Tan had hit the wall. After saying some words of encouragement to him, I continued the run. At the 30 km mark, I met up with Chui Miew again. I mixed the small plum powder packet with the water provided at the drink station. At that time, my timing was 3 hr 17 min 48 sec (chip time). I had improved on my timing split by approximately 22 minutes as compared with last year’s timing of 3 hr 39 min 4 sec (chip time).

35 km mark

After the 30 km mark, I decided to increase my running pace at a faster pace. I consumed the Powergel given by the sponsor at this point. I managed to catch up with Uncle Hooi as I was running behind him. At this point, I saw many runners had slow down or hit the wall. At the 32 km mark near Pekeliling flats, I saw Kelvin Ng (PM2) stretching. I was told that he had a cramp on his legs. I consumed my second small plum powder packet by mixing it with plain water. The sun was getting hotter at this point of time. After the 32 km mark, I saw CM (PM17) having cramp on his legs. After saying some words of encouragement, I continued the run. At this point, I was still following Uncle Hooi closely. I was overtaking many runners that had hit the wall. At the 34 km mark water station, I consumed my third small plum powder packets by mixing it with plain water. After the water station, I bumped into Chong Wah who had overtaken me earlier. I said some words of encouragement to him and continued with my normal to fast running pace. The route to the 35 km mark was downhill i.e. running downhill along the Mahameru Highway. At this point, I overtook quite a number of runners who had slow down. I was really enjoying the run downhill at a fast and relaxed pace and I was still running behind Uncle Hooi closely. When I reached the 35 km mark, my timing split was 3 hr 52 min+.

40 km mark

My running pace was still fine and so far I did not experience any cramp at all on my legs. I took my forth small plum powder packet by mixing with plain water at the 36 km mark water station. After the water station, the running route was downhill along Jalan Duta. I increased my running pace faster and I managed to overtake Uncle Hooi at this point of time as I had been using him as my pacer since the 30 km mark. After running for 4 hours, I had run approximately 37.5 km (I could not measure the distance exactly). After the turning point at the Indian High Commission, I saw Chong Wah running on the opposite direction. I showed him some sign of encouragement and continued the run. Later at the 38 km mark water station, I saw Chui Miew running on the opposite direction. I showed her some sign of encouragement and continued the run at a faster pace. At the 40 km mark water station, I consumed my last small packet plum powder. My timing split was 4 hr 28 min+.

Finishing

As the finishing was getting nearer, I decided to “press the turbo button” i.e. to increase my running pace to 6 minutes per km as I have been running at an average pace of approximately 6.5 minutes. When I reached the 41 km mark, my timing split was 4 hr 34 min+. At this point of time, I knew that I could create a new personal record. This motivated me to run faster. Unfortunately, with less than 700 metres to go, I felt some pain on my right calf of my leg. I had hit the wall at this point of time. I had to slow down my running pace. Otherwise I would invite more problems to my legs and perhaps I could not finish the race. Due to slow running pace towards the finishing, I saw Uncle Hooi and some runners overtaking me. With less than 150 metres to go, I saw Uncle Hooi and some runners who had overtaken me crossing the finishing line. I decided to sprint towards the finishing line although my right calf was still in pain. Finally, I completed the marathon in 4 hr 40 min 7 sec (gun time) and 4 hr 39 min 58 sec in 164th position for A category and 389th position for overall (A to C) category for a new personal record. At the finishing line, I right calf muscle was still in pain but the pain lasted for a minute as I managed to cool down myself.

Note: Despite Uncle Hooi’s age of 69, he could still maintain this kind of consistent pacing throughout the race. I note that many runners including myself did not have consistency in maintaining the pace. Many runners would have hit the wall after 30 km mark. Although it is not appropriate to compare myself with Uncle Hooi, we should salute him for maintaining this kind of consistent pacing and performance throughout the race (i.e. thumbs up to Uncle Hooi).

KLIM 2006 FINISHING PHOTOS

2006-03-10T01:03:00.000+08:00

Stay tune for more report.

KLIM 2006 PHOTOS

2006-03-08T08:21:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Tey and KC (Penguin 1) for the photos. Stay tune for detail report.

Photo 1: Lawrence & Fang Hau after the run

Photo 2: Chong Wah, Fang Hau & Tey after the run

Photo 4 (before the run): Fang Hau

Photo 5 (before the run): Left to right (squatting), Alden Yap (PM38), Kelvin Ng (PM2), Jamie Pang (PM5), Tey (PM22), DK (PM40)

Left t0 right (standing), Phyllis, Rho Wen, Chui Miew, Chong Wah, Fang Hau, Hooi Siew Weng (Uncle Hooi), P K Chan, Tan Khee Meng (Penguin 2)

Photo 6: Sprinting towards the finishing line

KLIM 2006 ON 5 MARCH 2006

2006-03-07T07:03:00.000+08:00

Thanks to KC (Penguin 1) and friends (for the photo.
Timing split analysis.

5 km mark: 27 min+
10 km mark: 57 min 38 sec
15 km mark: 1 hr 31 min+
20 km mark: 2 hr 6 min+
21 km mark: 2 hr 13 min 24 sec
25 km mark: 2 hr 40 min+
30 km mark: 3 hr 17 min 48 sec
35 km mark: 3 hr 52 min+
At 4 hrs timing = Approximately 37.5 km
40 km mark: 4 hr 28 min+
41 km mark: 4 hr 34 min +
42.195 km mark: 4 hr 40 min 7 sec (Gun time)
4 hr 39 min 58 sec (Chip time)
Average pace per km: 6 min 38.32 sec

Time taken for every 5 km:

5 km mark = Approximately 27 min+
10 km mark = Approximately 30 min+
15 km mark = Approximately 34 min+
20 km mark = Approximately 35 min+
25 km mark = Approximately 34 min+
30 km mark = Approximately 37 min+
35 km mark = Approximately 35 min+
40 km mark = Approximately 36 min+

Time taken for the last 2 km:

41 km mark = Approximately 6 min+
42.195 mark = Approximately 6 min+

I do not need a watch with accurate timing as I am not a hardcore runner that concerns much on timing. I just enjoy my running with my a simple water resistant metal watch (Casio). I have been wearing this watch since 1995 or 1996.

Stay tune for more photos and report.

NEW HAIRSTYLE AND NEW PERSONAL RECORD

2006-03-06T06:25:00.000+08:00

Distance: 42.195 km (KLIM 2006)

Date: 5/3/2006
Time: 4 hr 40 min 7 sec (Gun time)
4 hr 39 min 58 sec (Chip time)
5 hr 32 min 5 sec (Gun time) (Mar'2005)
5 hr 31 min 55 sec (Chip time) (Mar'2005)

Equipment: New Balance pouch, one (1) 600 ml plum powder juice (Taiwan plum powder mix with local plum powder in concentrated form), five (5) small packets of plum powder (Taiwan plum powder mix with local plum powder), MP3 player, two (2) Powergel (one (1) packet unused)

Running attire: Brooks running vests, New Balance running shorts, Adidas Supernova Shoe (mileage more than 1,300 km) and Brooks dry fit running socks

This is the second time I ran under 5 hours in the full marathon. Some of you may asked why I shave my hair, the reason was I could not bear with the hot and humid weather at home. Anyway, I have this hairstyle once in the blue moon. I may keep this hairstyle if this kind of hot weather continues in the future.

Can you spot me before the race (Refer to the picture) ? Thanks for the picture, Runwitme. I did not have a chance to see you before the race. You are very good in "spying" on the runners (i.e. you snapshot my photos without me knowing about it).

Stay tune for more pictures and details of the report.

MP3 PLAYER AND NIKE ARM WALLET

2006-02-26T01:00:00.000+08:00

Finally, I managed to retrieve my MP3 Player and Nike arm wallet ("Equipment") from Mr. Francis Toh. I did not realise that I had misplaced the Equipment at the goodies bag tent after the Great Eastern Pacesetters 30km run on 22 January 2006.

Thanks to Ms. S. H. Tan for informing me on the Equipment on 7 February 2006 at TTDI Park (in the evening) after reading my posting on my blog.

I would like to say thank you to Ms. S. H. Tan (for finding and safe keeping of my Equipment), Mr. Munning Jamaluddin (for safe keeping of my Equipment while waiting for the owner to claim it) and Mr. Francis Toh (for safe keeping of my equipment).

MT. BRINCHANG REVISITED ON 30 OCTOBER 2005 AND NATURAL WATER FROM SIMPANG PULAI TO CAMERON HIGHLANDS ROAD BY LIM FANG HAU

2006-02-22T00:15:00.000+08:00

The last time I trekked up to the summit of Mt. Brinchang was in May 1996. Mt. Brinchang, with the height of 6,666 feet or 2,032 metres is located in Cameron Highlands. This time the run to Mt. Brinchang started at 6.00 am. I ran with my relative (Mr. Tan Chan Poh) (“TCP”). He led the way throughout the entire run and ran according to my comfortable pace.

The run to Mt. Brinchang from Brinchang town was 12 km. For the first 7 km the road was not flat as we had to face the undulating road surface with many uphill climb. This was still manageable to me. For the next 5 km, the run became tougher as we had to run up some steep slopes. This was considered the toughest run I ever encountered as it consumed most of my legs muscle strength. We managed to reach the summit in 1.5 hours. The weather along the run was cold and I had to wear sweater for the run. I only managed to feel the heat in my body after running for 0.5 hours and I found myself having difficulty to warm up before the run.

The return journey to Brinchang town for 12 km took us 1 hr 15 min+. I had to run slowly especially when descending from Mt. Brinchang to prevent my knees from getting injured. The air in the morning was quite cool and refreshing. After reaching Brinchang town, I could not run at my normal pace. I had to run at a very slow pace as my legs muscles were quite sore. I ran around the Strawberry Park for 6 km. TCP was kind enough to accompany me at running at my slow pace. I finished the run in 3 hr 46 min 45.25 sec.

One thing I was amazed was that TCP (age 48) ran with me for 30 km without drinking water. According to him, my pace was too slow for him. He could only run a half marathon as he has no patience to run a full marathon at a fast pace, i.e. he would probably hit the wall after 30 km. He ran the half marathon at quite a fast pace and his personal best was around 1 hr 45 min and below 2 hr.

Another interesting fact about the return journey from Cameron Highlands via the Simpang Pulai road is the natural water from the mountain. If you are using the Simpang Pulai road to return to Kuala Lumpur from Cameron Highland, you will notice some vehicles stopping at the road side (on your right hand side) somewhere 15 km before reaching Simpang Pulai. Those drivers were stopping at that location to collect natural mineral water from the mountain.

The water flows through the pipes and it has been filtered naturally through various layers of rocks of the mountain. Before the road from Simpang Pulai to Cameron Highland was built, the Titiwangsa mountain range forms part of the natural water catchments area. Part of the mountain range was cleared for the construction of the alternative road to Cameron Highland. As a result some concrete wall had to be constructed to prevent soil erosion. The concrete wall was built with pipes to allow water to flow into the drainage system. The cooling natural water flowing out of the pipe was considered clean and safe for drinking. I took home four bottles of natural water for drinking. The taste was nice and you don’t need to boil it before drinking. I did not have stomach problem after drinking the water. Infect, some Malays or Indians collected the water and bottled it as mineral water for sale. As compared with other the natural water from Cameron Highlands, the natural water from the Titiwangsa mountain range is much cleaner. There are some agricultural activities in Cameron Highlands and the pesticides may flow through the water system. There are no agricultural activities at all on the Titiwangsa mountain range. I did not have a camera to snap shot the picture of the location. I’ll try to get a camera the next time if I travel to Cameron Highlands again.

Some facts about the road to Cameron Highlands via Simpang Pulai are depicted below.
1. There are no street lights along the entire road from Simpang Pulai to Cameron Highlands (distance around 52 km). It is considered quite dangerous for night driving due to the foggy condition of the road. There are some sign boards on cautioning drivers on the foggy conditions at night.

2. The road is vulnerable to land slide. On my return journey, there was minor traffic congestion on the road due to the land slide. Portion of the road was covered with mud. At that time, it was a raining season.

3. If you are coming down from Cameron Highland via the Simpang Pulai road and you decided to stop (on the left side of the road) to collect natural mineral water, please take extra caution of your own safety when crossing the road (unless you decide to stop at the right side of the road). Some vehicles are speeding downwards at around 80 to 90 km/h.

4. The lanes are much wider as compared with the Tapah to Cameron Highlands road. This allows the vehicles to travel within the legal speed limit of 80 to 90 km/h.

5. Time taken to reach Cameron Highlands from Simpang Pulai is around 1 hr 15 min to 1.5 hours. The Tapah to Cameron Highlands road would take you around 1 hr 45 min to 2 hrs (60 km) depending on the traffic condition and you can only travel at around 30 to 50 km/h due to the narrow lanes.

19 FEBRUARY 2006

2006-02-19T21:26:00.000+08:00

Running distance: 30.8 km
Timing: 3 hr 00 min 56.75 sec (New personal record)
3 hr 3 min 45.11 sec (12/2/2006)
Average pace per km: 5 min 52.49 sec
Equipment: 1 Plum Powder (600 ml, last week 500 ml)
2 water bottles (500 ml and 220 ml respectively)
Digital MP3 player
New Balance Pouch

The run today was fine and weather was cooling in the mornng. Started early at 5 something in the morning. Split time at Petronas: approximately 60 minutes + (before running the extra lap at Petronas). Split time at the next 20 km: 2 hr 2 min + (after completing the extra lap at Petronas). Completed the run in 3 hr 00 min 56.75 sec. This was the best day and timing since it was a special day for me. I was confident that I could improve my timing further (depending on how fast I want to run).

After the run, I felt much better as compared with last week (giddy). Overall, I ran in quite a consistent pace without any pressure and with the help of music from my Digital MP3 player.

Thanks to the runners for the company in the 30 km long run: Tey (pm22), Tan Khee Meng (p2), Jamie (pm5), Chong Wah, Phyllis, C C Hoo and Hoo Ching Tai.

KOREA TRIP BY LIM FANG HAU (23 SEPTEMBER 2005 TO 25 SEPTEMBER 2005)

2006-02-19T21:10:00.000+08:00

PRE-DEPARTURE DAY

Assembled at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (“KLIA”) at 11pm. Approximately 60 staffs went for the Korea trip (fully sponsored trip by the bank, Affin Merchant Bank Berhad) in the first batch.

DAY 1 (23 SEPTEMBER 2005)

Departed from KLIA at 1 am. Arrived at Inchon International Airport, Korea at 8.30 am. Proceeded to Kyongbok Palace in Seoul. Kyongbok Palace, built in1934 as the main palace of Joseon Dynasty (1392 – 1910) by its founder King Taejo, it is the most comprehensive and grandest of the five palaces of the Joseon Dynasty. Nothing much to describe as I could not appreciate much of the history of Korea. Lunch at Tajmahal Restaurant in Itaewon. The Indian food tastes bad and there was no desert at all. I had no choice but to follow the whole group. At 2.30 pm, proceeded to the National Folk Museum (the “Museum”) of Korea in Seoul. The Museum was located on the grounds of Kyongbok Palace, has exhibits which illustrate the history of the Korean people, the traditional lifestyle of a Korean people, and the lifestyle of a Korean from birth to death. The Museum building was built in 1972 and it is a synthesis of various traditional Korean architectural structures. It originally housed the National Museum of Korea until 1986, was then remade and the Museum reopened on 17 February 1993.

At 4 pm, proceeded to Dongdaemun Market. It is basically a silk market. The biggest items are fabrics, clothing, leather goods, women’s and children costumes, bedding, house wares, footwear, sporting goods, etc.

At 5.30 pm, proceeded to Shinchon Street. There were numerous coffee lounges, restaurants, snack bars, beauty saloons, shops for clothes, accessories and various fashion items, theatres for live performances, jazz cafes, rock cafes and nightclubs as ell as departmental stores and shopping centres, all catering to university students or to young people.

Dinner at Evergreen Restaurant at 8 pm in Itaewon. Had Indian food for dinner. The dinner was much better than lunch as there were desserts served.

Checked in to Renaissance Hotel in Seoul at 9.30 pm. Travelled to Hard Rock Café at 11 pm to see the nightlife there before returning to the hotel at 11.50 pm.

DAY 2 (24 SEPTEMBER 2005)

Woke up at 6.30 am. Had breakfast in the hotel. At 8.30 am, started the journey to MBC Drama Filming Studio in Yangiu, located by 1.5 hours drive from Seoul. This is a famous place for filing Korean drama. Toured the studio for two hours. Departed for Seoul at noon for lunch. Had lunch at a local restaurant. The Ginseng chicken soup tastes nice.

At 3 pm, visited National (duty free) ginseng outlet. Korean ginseng is recognised throughout the Orient and everywhere as the world’s best, with the greatest efficacy as an ancient tonic elixir and stamina builder. At 4.30 pm, visited amethyst factory. There were different sizes of amethyst.

At 5.30 pm, visited Myeongdong market. Myeongdong has long been the trend-making centre of Korean fashion. Every back alley has cafes and restaurants serving snacks and delicacies for moments of refreshment while shopping.

At 6.30 pm, visited Namdaemun market. Within just a few minutes’ walk from Seoul’s ancient South Gate is an open-air market of the same name. It is close to downtown area and deluxe hotels, boasting the very best selection of merchandise in the nation.

At 8.00 pm, had dinner at Asoka Restaurant in Hamilton Hotel in Itaewon. Had Indian food for dinner.

At 9.30 pm, returned to hotel for rest.

DAY 3 (25 SEPTEMBER 2005)

Woke up at 6.30 am. Had breakfast in the hotel. Departed to airport at 8.30 am. Stopped at the duty free shop near the Inchon International Airport. Shopped for one hour before continuing the journey to the airport. Checked in at the airport at 10.30 am. Flight to Kota Kinabalu departed at 11.30 am. Arrived at Kota Kinabalu at 3.30 pm Malaysian time (transit flight). Loitering around the Kota Kinabalu International Airport for an hour before taking the transit flight back to KLIA. Arrived at KLIA at 6.45 pm. Checking out and finally reached home at 9.30 pm from KLIA.

Ten (10) interesting facts about the entire journey to Korea:

1. The weather during autumn is very cooling with temperature of approximately 17 degree Celsius. Quite a suite weather to run.
2. Seoul, the capital city of Korea, has a population of approximately 11 million.
3. Some roads in Seoul have 8 lanes on each sides and this makes 16 lanes on both sides of the road.
4. Most of the Korean have it difficult to speak English and the common language spoken is Korean.
5. Due to environmental awareness, the chopsticks used by the majority of the Korean is made of stainless steel.
6. Korean ginseng is rated as the best in the world. This is followed by the Chinese and Amercian ginseng. Ginseng trade is monopolised by the government.
7. On every meal, the Korean would take Kimchi, a raw cabbage mixed with spicy ingredient, together with other dishes.
8. The currency used in Korea is Won. 1,000 won is almost equivalent to US$1, which is equivalent to RM3.70. If you are spending in Korea, you are also indirectly spending US$$ as most of the things in Korea are expensive.
9. Hyundai Sonata (2.0 litre, automatic gear) in Korea cost 17 million Won (equivalent to approximately RM65,000). In Malaysia, a Hyundai Sonata cost approximately RM130,000 due to import and excise duty and is considered a luxury car. Hyundai Sonata is affordable to ordinary Korean and is commonly used as a taxi in Korea.
10. Most of the Korean prefers local made products as their spirit of nationalism is high. This is proven by the fact that hardly any Japanese cars can be seen on the road side even though the car market is open. Infect, I only saw 2 Honda Accord in Korea and some European cars.

KLCC RUN ON 3 NOVEMBER 2005 BY LIM FANG HAU (POSTED ON PM 1 BLOG ON 5/11/2005)

2006-02-18T23:13:00.000+08:00

Running on the first day of Eid ul-Fitr reminded me of my first 30 km run in 2004. At that time I managed to complete 30.1 km in 3 hr 40 min by using Galloway method of running with 9 minutes of running and 1 minute of walking break. From then onwards, I had the motivation to run a full marathon which I managed to complete for the first time in the KLIM 2005.

This year I intended to improve further by running a minimum of 39 km in KLCC (equivalent to 30 laps). I started the run at 9.45 am. My pace was even slower than the pace I used in Songkhla 2005 marathon. Timing was not my concern as I wanted to add on more mileage and get used to running under the hot sun for the coming Singapore marathon. I also wanted to get rid of my addiction to listening to MP3 player and adjust myself in running round the loops. I always find myself having difficulty in concentrating my run around the loops.

For the first 16 laps, I did not encounter any problem at all. My split timing was around 2 hr 28 min +. After lap 16, I started to feel dehydrated. I had to sponge myself every lap. I took my Powergel supply at lap 20. At lap 24 my knees started to feel the cramp. I should have applied the deep heat rub at the beginning of the run and not when I start to feel the pain. I had no choice but to apply the deep heat rub on my knees. My split timing after completing 24 laps was around 3 hours 50 min +. After lap 24, my pace began to slow down and I had to jog at a slower pace. At lap 26, after running for more than 4.5 hours, my body started to feel giddy and I could not even walk. My body condition was low in salt and sugar. I had to rest on the bench for half an hour before continuing my run. When I resumed my run, I could not run at my usual slow pace. I had to walk and run for a lap before continuing for the remaining 3 laps. At lap 29 and 30, I finally found my rhythm of running and I continued my usual running pace. After lap 30, I decided to call it a day as I found no point for me to go or another 3 laps as my body condition was not that good.I finished the 30 laps in 5 hr 51 min 22.46 sec. Although my timing was not that good, I still managed to improve my distance as compared to last year (30 km at Lake Garden) and kicking off my addiction to MP3 player when running. I also managed to focus myself better when running round the loops.

Some interesting facts about the run:

1. One day before the run, I did not have much carbo loading dinner. I had my usual dinner.

2. Before the run on Thursday, I did a 30 km run at Cameron Highlands with my relative. The run started from Brinchang Town up to Mt. Brinchang and return via the same route (24 km) and running around Strawberry Park for 6 km.

3. The day after the hardcore 30 km run, I did a recovery run with my relative for 6.5 km.

4. On Tuesday, I went to Mt. Datuk in Negeri Sembilan for a mountain climbing trip with Steven Ng, friend of PM 37 (Ng Ping Loong) and Penguin 3 (Tony Quay) and Penguin 6 (Terrence Leong). The trip was well organised with 17 climbers.

5. I only had a day of rest on Wednesday (my working day) before running in KLCC on Thursday.

6. I experienced sun burn on my skin as I ran under the hot sun in KLCC.7. I lost 3 water bottles as they were stolen from the starting point after I completed 28 laps.

At the point of writing (5/11/2005) my total mileage is 93.5 km. I may consider running in KLCC again for more laps in the future but my starting time will be 5 to 6 am.

JOHOR – SINGAPORE 2ND LINK INTERNATIONAL BRIDGE RUN 2005 ON 2/10/2005 BY LIM FANG HAU (POSTED ON PM 25 BLOG ON 4/10/2005)

2006-02-18T00:41:00.000+08:00

This was considered my average run. I managed to improve my timing as compared to previous half marathon races. I did not bother to take note of my timing split as I could not judge the distance marker accurately. I just ran according to my normal pace at the beginning and progressively increasing my pace towards the end of the race.

The started the race without any Powerbar but with 5 bananas. The race started at approximately 6.20 am, delayed by 20 minutes due to late arrival of the VIPs. I also ran this time by trying out the plum powder drink as a substitute for isotonic drink. Throughout the race, there were no isotonic drinks but only plain water provided. I lost count of the number of water and sponging station provided but in my opinion the number of stations provided was quite standard.

The race started at Tanjung Kupang toll plaza. Runners had to run pass the immigration check point before proceeding to the 2nd link bridge on the Malaysian side. On the bridge runners had to run along the bridge for about 3km + before making a u-turn somewhere halfway but before the Tuas checkpoint on the Singapore side. I really enjoyed running along the bridge. The morning scenery was scenic and the weather was fine due to rain one day before the race. After making a u-turn, runners had to run back to Tanjung Kupang toll plaza before making a u-turn towards the finishing line (for 10km only) but for the half marathon category runners had to run along the PLUS expressway from Tanjung Kupang toll plaza. The runners had to run for approximately 5km+ before making a u-turn before the Gelang Patah interchange. Then, runners had to run all the way back to the finishing line which was about 6km+. Although, I started at normal pace, I managed to increase my pace progressively. After 10km+ my pace started to increase at a faster rate. There were some runners beginning to slowdown. I managed to overtake those runners one by one until the finishing line.

I managed to finish the race in 2 hr 4 min 45.26 sec, an improvement as compared to previous races of 2:08 in PJ half (under heavy rain condition), 2:23 (under high humidity condition) and 2:07 (in Seremban Half). All the 3 races, I suffered when I came back. My legs and muscles were in pain as if it was going to cramp. Infect I really suffered muscle cramp after the Seremban half marathon after the finishing line. This race, I did not suffer when I came back. My legs could still go on further. I think this must be due to the plum powder drink I took along the race as a substitute for isotonic drink. For your information, I did an 8km easy run at Kiara Park one day before the race after 13 days of laying off from running due to company trip to Korea last weekend. I also took Powergel at the half way mark as the gel was going to expire somewhere in mid October (in fact I did not need the Powergel). I did not managed to get a medal as it was given to top 50 finisher but I came back with a certificate. Overall, I enjoyed this race without any suffering. Looks like there will be no more half marathon for me until next year Nilai half (based on my judgement on the running calendar of 2004/2005). I hope that I’ll be able to finish the Singapore marathon and make it the most memorable one in my life (Singapore marathon as per my view point will be the best ever organised race in South East Asia).

PJ HALF MARATHON – 18/9/2005 BY LIM FANG HAU (POSTED ON PM 25 BLOG ON 19/9/2005)

2006-02-17T00:12:00.000+08:00

This was my improved race as compared to last year. Last year, I missed the certificate by 40 seconds. My timing was 2 hr 15 min 40 sec. The actual distance was 19.5km. This year, the distance is 21km based on the survey of the route done on Friday. I started the race with my brand new running vest (“SAFRA running vest”). Some of the familiar running friends were surprise to see me wearing the new running vest and thinking that I am from Singapore. I am a Malaysian. Actually, I really like the SAFRA running vest very much especially the colour of the vest which is very bright. I also like the SAFRA running club. One day, if I have a chance to work in Singapore, I’ll definitely join the SAFRA running club.My first 12km timing split was 1 hr 6 min +. Before reaching 12km mark, the runners had to run under heavy rain. The rain slowed down my pace but I managed to maintain my pace. I had to push myself harder in order to maintain the same pace. I was wearing my Adidas control shoe. I could feel the weight when running under heavy rain. My timing split for 16km was 1 hr 30 min+. Before reaching the 16km mark, at the 12 km mark, I was running an average of 5 min+ pacing per km. I was trying to overtake one of the SAFRA runners who are running quite fast. Suddenly, I started to feel something wrong on my left leg. My leg was about to cramp. I decided to run at a relaxed pace. I could have pushed my self too hard in order to maintain the same pace under the heavy rain condition. After running at a relaxed pace, everything was fine to me until the16km mark. From 16km mark onwards, I started to slow down. At 18km mark, I had to stop for sponging and walked for 10 seconds before continuing my slow run. Approximately 1 km before the finishing line, I had do walk and run. There were many runners overtaking me. Upon entering the stadium with 300 metres to go, I sprinted towards the finishing line. I finished my run in 2 hr 8 min 45.61 sec in 175th position under suffering condition. My legs were pain as I had to bear the pain from 18km mark onwards towards the finishing line. I was surprised that I could get a medal as my timing was not fast to get a medal under this race. Many top runners must have skipped this run for unknown reason. My timing was considered normal to me under the raining condition.Overall, the race was well organised with sufficient sponging and refreshment station. I enjoyed the race although my pace was slowed by the raining condition. With the presence of SAFRA runners, this race had become more exciting. I do hope that I’ll be able to improve my timing next year. On average my pacing per km as 5 min+ until 16km and 7 min+ for the last 5km. My overall pacing per km was 6 min 7 sec+. For your information, SAFRA is Singapore Armed Forces Reservist Association. For your information, SAFRA is a running club in Singapore. This club had on 11 September 2005 organised the Sheares Bridge Run and Army Half Marathon attracting more than 5,000 participants. Finally, I would like to apologise to the Pacesetters members if you are offended by my presence in SAFRA running vest. I would like to clarify that I am still a Pacesetters member although I run with SAFRA running vest. We must promote running to the Singaporeans. I do hope that there will be more SAFRA runners coming down next year to make this event more competitive.

SHEARES BRIDGE RUN & ARMY HALF MARATHON ON 11 SEPTEMBER 2005 BY LIM FANG HAU (POSTED ON PM 25 BLOG ON 12/9/2005)

2006-02-16T23:54:00.000+08:00

This was my worst half marathon since started taking part in races. The race started at the Esplanade Bridge in Singapore, the starting point for Singapore Marathon 2004 in which I ran the half marathon category. There were more than 5,000 participants. According to Shirlyn Tay (“ST”), most of the participants were members of the Singapore Armed Forces, being compulsorily asked to participate.The race started at 5.45 am. After running for more than 6km and passing through the Benjamin Sheares Bridge with the distance of approximately 2km, I reached the East Cost Park. From there my body started to feel something different especially at 8km mark. I felt overheating in my body and the weather from the beginning was too humid with no wind blowing at all. This was totally different from my usual training and running races in other places where I could experience some cooling effect of the morning breeze before experiencing the heat from the sun. There were too many runners having the same standard like me. I found myself difficult to set a fast pace as I was running quite close with the large pack of runners. The distance was quite close to each other. The route was narrow in the East Coast Park. East Coast Park reminded me of the cycling experience in October 2003. At that time, I cycled the entire East Coast Park with a mountain bike.My body kept producing the sweat and I felt something was not right in this kind of weather of high humidity. Normally, my body will start to feel the effect of overheating if running under the sun but at this time the sun has yet to rise at 6.30 am. I just continued running until reaching the 10km mark before turning. At that point of time, the Deejay announced that 9 more km to go. I was puzzled as my watch showed 56 min+. I could not be running for 12km under this time as I was following the distance marker closely. Based on my usual pacing, I covered more than 10km. Later, I saw the marker of 11km and I was blurred weather to follow the Deejay announcement or the distance marker ? I just continued my run. Later I my mind as blurred, as I as running in an unfamiliar route under the humid weather condition. I just could not focus running properly. My 15km split time was 1 hr 33 min+ as I was not sure weather this was the correct distance marker. At 16km mark, I started to hit the wall and I had to walk and run towards the finishing line.The race was well organised with 17 refreshment stations. This was like running a full marathon. After the race, I only realised that runners need this much of water due to the humid weather condition as runners tend to lose much sweat before the sun rises. After 16km mark, my body felt quite heavy and I could not run in my usual pace. I finished the race with a timing of 2 hr 23 min 29.52 sec with a finisher medal and a certificate. The cut off time for the competitive event was 2 hr 45 min. The organiser must have known that runners will be struggling with this kind of humid weather. Although, I did badly, I did not regret for not running in Putrajaya as I will treasure it as a learning experience of running under the humid weather condition for the first time. This run serves as a preparation for my Singapore Full Marathon. Part of the route, especially the East Coast Park will be used in the full marathon in December 2005. Please do not expect me to hit sub 5 hr for the Singapore marathon. This is not Songkhla. It is going to be very tough running under the humid weather condition and under the scorching sun in December as the race will start at 6 am. I’ll be happy if I can finish the marathon under 6 hours.

SEREMBAN HALF MARATHON 2005 on 10 July 2005 by LIM FANG HAU (POSTED ON PM 1 BLOG ON 11/7/2005)

2006-02-16T06:06:00.000+08:00

This was my toughest half marathon I ever participated and I ran in Seremban for the first time. The race started at approximately 7 am. As usual I ran with my MP3 player and pouch. There were distance markers for every km after the 4 km mark.I started my run at a fast pace aiming to break the sub 2 hr barrier. I knew that this was going to be tough with hills along the way. I just told myself to go all out until the end. After running 4 km my timing split was 21 min +. By 5 km mark, I clocked 26 min +. This was quite encouraging as I need to maintain this pace in order to break the sub 2 hr barrier. At 8 km mark, there was a hill for runners to run and this reduced my pace. By 10 km mark, my timing split was 57 min +, 4 min off my Ipoh 10 km timing split. I knew that this was going to be tough for me to break the sub 2 hr barrier unless I increase my speed and pace. By 11 km mark, my timing spit was 1 hr 2 min +. I tried to increase my pace and I managed to reduce my split time per km slightly but this could not last long as there was another hill somewhere after the 12 km mark. This reduced my speed. After running 15 km, my timing split was 1 hr 28 min. I knew that the sub 2 hr barrier was almost impossible as my legs were beginning to feel tired. I tried to maintain my pace.By 19 km mark, my timing split was 1 hr 52 min. At that time my speed was reduced due to tiredness on my leg muscles. My timing split after 20 km was 1 hr 57 min. At that point of time I was totally dehydrated and there was no water station at 20 km mark. The weather was hot with blazing sun coming out. The sub 2 hr timing was totally impossible for me. My pace was reduced drastically due to tiredness on my legs and dehydration. This forced me to do walk and run technique until the finishing line. Before the finishing line, there was a killer hill of 300 metres. This hill really forced me to walk as I could not run anymore. I did not want to risk myself getting cramp before the finishing line. It was really embarrassing for me as a full marathoner to walk in the half marathon race. With 200 metres before the finishing line, my legs were beginning to cramp. I just did not bother as I want to finish this tough and miserable half marathon quickly. I decided to push myself towards the finishing line. As I was approaching the finishing line I was running like a handicap person with my right legs having a minor cramp.Finally, I crossed the finishing line in 2 hr 7 min 24.64 sec with 125th position. At the finishing line, I was totally dehydrated and I nearly fainted while walking to collect my finishing medal and certificate. I had to be assisted by the St. John Ambulance helpers to be rested at the tent. At that time, while being escorted to the tent I was yelling for water as I could not bear the dehydration and I was given a bottle of mineral water to drink. At the tent, I was still dehydrated after drinking the mineral water. Luckily, Shine (Teh Yee-Chuan), the sub 4 hr marathoner was around at the tent to provide me a can of isotonic I really needed. I rested for approximately 5 minutes.After that, I began to do some warming down exercise but I forgot to do the important stretching on my legs as was I went on to chat with other runners. Unexpectedly, I collapsed in front of C C Hoo, Kenny Choo and his friends (Tey’s friends). I was screaming as I had a cramp on my right leg muscle. I had to be carried on a stretcher to the tent by the St. John Ambulance helpers. My right legs were iced and pain killer was applied to prevent the cramp from getting severe. Later I asked one of the helper to apply the pain killer on my left leg to prevent me from getting muscle cramp as I knew that my left leg was beginning to cramp. I rested for approximately 20 minutes at the tent before moving around the field.Base on my observation, the race was organisation as not up to the reasonable level of expectation. There were insufficient isotonic drink stations. There were 2 water stations, 1 isotonic drink station and 3 sponging station. There was no refreshment station at the 20 km mark. Infect, I survived in the Ipoh International Run 2005 as there was a water station at the 20 km mark. The organiser should emulate the PJ half marathon organiser by providing 3 water station, 3 isotonic drink station and 3 sponging stations. Other categories were flagged off at an inappropriate time. The half marathon runners had to clash with the school children categories. This slowed down the pace of the half marathoners. Perhaps the organiser should plan a different running route to avoid the half marathoners clashing with the school children categories.At the time of writing this report, I had recovered from the muscle cramp on my right calf. I still feel a little soreness on my legs muscles. I would like to thank those who had helped me when I suffered calf muscle cramp on my right leg.

MEMO TO ANONYMOUS

2006-02-14T20:46:00.000+08:00

Anonymous,

I may not know you but you know me. I am not sure whether you are the same person who gossiped or posted some unpleasant remarks on Ronnie (PM 1) blog some time ago. I know maybe you have been spying on me for quite some time. It does not matter.

We as runners should help each other within our limit and time. It is not good to say something bad or gossip about another person. To me, I do not like people to gossip about me. As a matter of principle, I am willing to offer some advice or help other runners regardless of sex, race or religion within my limit or time. Whenever there is a need I'll post some message on the runners' blog. Whatever I do is non of your business!!!!!

I do not wish to see this kind of gossip in other runners' blog in future. Please respect other runners sensitiveness or feelings.

If you want to post some message on my blog, please introduce yourself or else I'll ban you from posting in future (i.e. only Blogspot member can post the message). I do not like people posting some message on my blog without identifying themselves. Please watch out your words!!!!!

12 FEBRUARY 2006

2006-02-13T23:45:00.000+08:00

13 November 2005 = Happy (PR for 30 km run) and sad day for me (got involved in car accident)

12 February 2006 = Happy and suffering day for me (PR for 30 km run)

Distance = 30.3 km

Timing = 3 hr 3 min 45.11 sec

3 hr 8 min 29.66 sec (13/11/2005)

3 hr 39 min + (somewhere in January or February 2005)

Average pace per km = 6 min 3.87 sec

This was quite an enjoyable, happy and suffering day for me. I did not expect to create a PR. My intention was to run at an enjoyable and relaxed pace. For the first 10 km, I was running behind Chui Miew at a relaxed pace (and arriving at Petronas station in 61 minutes). The second 10 km, I did realised that Chui Miew was running at a pace faster than the first 10 km. I just followed her pace and it was quite a enjoyable for me as at the same time, the love musics from my new MP3 player motivated me to run faster. After running more than 26 km (at that time my timing split was approximately 2 hr 34 min +), my legs could not sustain the pace and I had to slow down to prevent cramps from creeping into my legs muscles. Finally, I finished the run in 3 hr 3 min 45.11 sec. I did some stretching to cool down myself. After a few minutes of steching and cooling down, I started to feel giddy and at that time I was dehydrated. There was not any sign of cramp on my legs but I had to sit down on the parking area in Bukit Aman to prevent myself from fainting. All I wanted that time was an isotonic drink or some Coke. As the stall selling drinks was closed, I was lucky as Tey had some Endurox. After drinking some Endurox, I felt slightly better and I was able to stand up and cool myself down. The main reason for this situation could be my low sugar or salt level ?

This was not the first time, I suffered this situation. I also encountered this situation somewhere in Janaury or February 2005 in the Pacesetters 30 km practice run prior to the KLIM 2005.

This suffering reminded me of my worst suffering and painful condition in running, i.e. I ended up in the ambulance. At that time (on 4/7/2004), I was running my first half marathon in Ipoh International Run 2004 (from 10 km run to half marathon and no training at all) without proper training and running shoe (running with lousy trekking shoe). I did not finish the race. I collapsed at 19 km mark in front of Greentown Mall due to severe cramp on both my calves muscle. I was screaming loudly as the pain was quite severe. I had to be carried by ambulance to the finishing line for further treatment. I encountered some pain when walking after returning from Ipoh to PJ. It took me five days to recover from this kind of cramp.

Anyway, thanks to Chui Miew for setting a wonderful and fantastic pace (up to 26 km) for me to improve my personal record (unexpected PR) . I would also like to thank Tey for providing me some Endurox drink.

13 NOVEMBER 2005 (POSTED ON PM 1 BLOG ON 14 NOVEMBER 2005)

2006-02-13T23:25:00.000+08:00

Dear all,

Yesterday (13 November 2005) was supposed to be my happy day as I managed to create a new personal record for the 30km run in 3 hr 8 min 29.66 sec. The weather was fine and cooling for me as I ran in a very relaxed pace with MP3 player (I'll not do it if the coach is around). At the end of the run I was surprise at myself with such timing as I still remember my last practice run best timing for 30 km was 3 hr 39 min+. The main factors in improvement in timing are training run by running up Mt Brinchang in Cameron Highlands, hot sun running during the past few weeks and the effect of plum powder drink. I just mix 1 big tea spoon of plum powder into the 500 ml mineral water bottle, mix with water and shake. If you are drinking the plum powder water, 1 bottle of 500 ml water can last you for 20km. It can quench your thirst and is better than other isotonic drink. It has sufficient potassium that can prevent your leg muscle from getting cramp when you are running long distance (more than 22 km). Infact, I felt great towards the fnishing, as I felt that I could still run for around 2 to 3 km more but I decided not to run as I had sufficient long run.My happy day came to an end when my car (Mitsubishi Galant 2.0, 1980 model) met an accident near my house. The car I as driving was collided by a Proton Iswara Aeroback. The bloody driver did not bother to stop at the junction. As a result, my rear door was damaged and could not be opened. I was lucky as I did not suffer any injuries. The body of my car was solid and this prevented my car from getting more damaged and myself from injury as a result of a strong collision. The bumper of the Proton Iswara was badly damaged and there was a slight damage to the radiator of the Proton Iswara.I was damn very angry at the bloody driver of the Proton Iswara but I managed to control my emotion by not doing something that can land me into further trouble (I am not a road bully). What I hated most is the attitude of the Malaysian drivers. Majority of the Malaysian drivers are immature, like to speed and do not bother to stop at the junction. This is one of the major factor that contributes to the accident.My final advice to the drivers on the road is to stop at the junction. This can help to prevent accident. If you can afford a bigger car, go for it as this is for your own safety. If you still want to drive a small car, you may consider a Myvi as the body of the car is quite solid (based on my own observation and view point).

"Take care and drive safely".

Regards,

LIM FANG HAU

KLIM CIRCUIT RUN – PART 3 (11 FEBRUARY 2006)

2006-02-13T07:34:00.000+08:00

Timing: 2 hr 49 min 32.01 sec

Distance: 25.3 km (11 laps)

I did not have the mood to run this race after lap 4. The battery in my MP3 player "finished". I just ran at a very slow pace for 6 laps and a fast pace for the final lap. Nothing happened to my legs, i.e. no cramps and sign of soreness and tiredness.

In the past, I tried to punish myself to run without MP3 player during training. However this could not work in races.

I have to admit that I am still an MP3 player addict. I can't go for a long distance race without this equipment. I really depend on this MP3 player to boost my performance and to help me to control my pace. It's quite boring for me to run long distance without MP3 player (unless I punish myself in the training run).

Another admission is that, I find running long distance quite boring unless I listen to some love music. Although running long distance is quite boring, the fun part is when finishing the race such as half marathon, marathon and ultra marathon. I still love running as it is one of the easiest sports. I think it is time to consider other sports such as cycling.

IPOH INTERNATIONAL RUN 2005 by LIM FANG HAU @ PM 23 (Posted on PM 1 Blog on 11/7/2005)

2006-02-11T23:41:00.000+08:00

2004 = Did not finish. Collapsed at 19 km mark in front of Greentown Mall due to severe cramp on both my calves muscle. Had to be carried by ambulance to the finishing line. (1st half marathon since running seriously in 2004)

2004 Singapore Marathon (21.5 km): 2 hr 16 min 20 sec (Gun time) / 2 hr 16 min 11 sec (Chip time)

2005 Ipoh International Run 21km: 2hr 00 min 27 sec (New PR)

This was my best half marathon so far in 2005. I managed to finish the race with a new personal record as compared to last year being a non-finisher. In fact this race I was forced to run fast to qualify for the certificate. The organiser had risen the qualifying time for the half marathon from 2 hr 30 min in 2004 to 2 hr in 2005. Initially, I was doubt whether I can qualify for the certificate.The race started at 7 am. As usual I ran with my pouch and MP3 player as this gadget provided some inspiration and motivation for me to keep on running. The route used was similar to the one used last year. I had the advantage as I knew where exactly I should pace myself.My timing split for the first 4km was 20 min +. By 10km my timing split was 53 min +. At that time, I thought I had a chance to run below sub 2 hr to qualify for the certificate. By 1 hr I managed to run more than 11 km but less than 12 km. I continued with my usual fast pace like I used in short distance races. By 15 km mark, my timing split was 1 hr 22 min +. After 17 km mark my legs were beginning to feel a little tired and this slow down my pace. I tried to run faster but could not push myself faster.Before approaching the 19 km marker, I told my self that I should be able to get passed this painful and horrible distance marker (the spot where I collapsed last year). At 19 km mark, I ran passed this distance marker. I was very confident that I could finish the race in a good timing. Closing to 20 km mark, I felt very dehydrated due to the blazing sun. Luckily, there was a final water station and I drank a cup of plain water before continuing my run. At that time, I was chasing after the time as I knew that the 2 hr qualifying mark was getting closer. My right legs were beginning to cramp. This again reduced my pace. I had no choice but to continue to fight with the time constraint until the end. As I was approaching the finishing line with 500 metres to go, I could not bear the pain and I just continued running and sprinting at my fastest pace until the end. With 100 metres before the finishing line, I could not bear the pain and I screamed like a person was being chased by a dog and continued sprinting until the finishing line and overtaking 3 runners slowing down at towards the finishing line.Finally, I managed to cross the finishing line in 2 hr 00 min 27 sec and my position was 112th out of 300+ runners. I had to stop abruptly and lied down on the ground for a while at the finishing line as I could not run anymore. Later, when I stand up and walk, I felt the pain on my buttock due to stopping abruptly at the finishing line. This pain lasted for a while.I was happy that I managed to accomplish my mission of finishing this half marathon and creating a new personal best. Overall, the run is reasonably organised. There were 4 water stations and 3 sponging station. One thing lacking in this run was the absence of isotonic drink. It would be better if the organiser could provide the isotonic drink to runners as we really need this drink in order to replenish our energy level after running certain distance.I really enjoyed running in Ipoh as the morning scenery was scenic as I could observe the scenic sunrise. One thing I have to be honest to myself is that, I should not get the medal and certificate as I took extra 27 sec to complete the race. If the organiser were really strict in imposing the regulations (like PJ Half Marathon: I missed the certificate by 40 sec), I would have come home empty handed for the second time and many runners would also suffer the same fate like me.Overall, I am not satisfied with what I had achieved in Ipoh as I considered myself failing to qualify for the certificate. I shall be back next year with my vengeance mission of running below 2 hr to qualify for the certificate.

PAR Report By Jason Lim PM23 (Posted on PM 1 Blog on 6/6/2005)

2006-02-11T23:23:00.000+08:00

This was the race organised by a group of runners for runners. The participants comprising not only the Pacemakers but also outsiders. The events started with a group photo session and the actual race started at 7.31am. We were flagged of by our VIP, PM 7, Yaziz.This was a 8-lap run on the KLCC Park. The distance for each lap is 1.3km. At every important sections, there were race marshals taking care of the race. The attendance for the race was 100% comprising volunters and runners. I started the race with the first lap tiing of 6 min 3sec. This was considered my fastest timing per lap for the KLCC Park. Then for the other laps my timingsplit drops to approxiately 7 min per lap. After running 3 laps my timing was approximately 20 min. My timing after 4 laps was approximately 28 min. My timing for 5 laps was 36 min. By the 6th lap, my timing was 44 min. Entering the 7th lap my timing was approximately 51 min. I finished my race with a timing of 57 min 25 sec, a personal record for me. My last personal record was 1 hr 1 min 57 sec in 22nd position.Overall the race was well organised with water provided to runners after 3 laps of running. There were volunteers counting the loops runners had covered and taking the time of the runners. On average for every kilometre my timing was 5 min 31 sec. Each runners received trophies for their effort in completing the race.