As I will be travelling to ipoh for the Ipoh International Marathon without my laptop, this would be my last posting for the week. I would like to wish those whom are running this race the best of luck!
IPOH!!!! HERE I COME!!!!
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Saturday, June 24, 2006
180 Degree
Well, my personal life had taken an 180 degree about turn just recently. Anyway, don't worry, it is good for me. I mean there were a lot of things that you had not expected to happen in your life to happen anyway. I mean, it is difficult for me to post this but this is more related to the love life of mine and it is not about the girl. There had been parties which had 'explicitly' expressed their intentions and I am more than happy. It is not complicated and as to what I will be doing next, I would not post it anymore. Moreover, I think readers would have been bored by my rubbish postings. Anyway, as to future developments on my love life, it will be kept within me. Haha...maybe there maybe a few ramblings here and there but nothing specific. Hopefully things would turn out well and lady luck will be with me.
Anyway, as to running, it had turn out quite well. I think my injuries were more attributed to the type of shoes that I had been using than how hard I had been running. I had been racing on racing flats for the distance of 15K and above and it had taken a toll on my knees. In my last race, in order to know whether shoes were the main culprit to my injury, I tried my Asics instead and it proved that I had used the wrong shoes in previous races where during the course of the PJ Half, there weren't any signs of knee pain. After giving second thoughts, I had decided to race on semi-racing flat shoes like NB901. I had ran in NB900 before and during this period, I clocked my fastest 21K and 10K times. It was my best shoe until I changed to Diadora's. Not that these shoe were bad but the thing is that they are seriously hard on the knees especially their racing flats. But, after using them for a long time, when I had switched them back to the Asics recently, I felt stronger running in Asics and I guess, there had been an improvement in strength after using Diadora's. For now, I would like to give my knees a break and use softer compound shoes for training and racing. Well, NB901 here I come!!!
Anyway, as to running, it had turn out quite well. I think my injuries were more attributed to the type of shoes that I had been using than how hard I had been running. I had been racing on racing flats for the distance of 15K and above and it had taken a toll on my knees. In my last race, in order to know whether shoes were the main culprit to my injury, I tried my Asics instead and it proved that I had used the wrong shoes in previous races where during the course of the PJ Half, there weren't any signs of knee pain. After giving second thoughts, I had decided to race on semi-racing flat shoes like NB901. I had ran in NB900 before and during this period, I clocked my fastest 21K and 10K times. It was my best shoe until I changed to Diadora's. Not that these shoe were bad but the thing is that they are seriously hard on the knees especially their racing flats. But, after using them for a long time, when I had switched them back to the Asics recently, I felt stronger running in Asics and I guess, there had been an improvement in strength after using Diadora's. For now, I would like to give my knees a break and use softer compound shoes for training and racing. Well, NB901 here I come!!!
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Sony MDR-EX71SL (White)
Well, as you have guessed, I have busted my Creative Headphones which I had used for my Zen Vision M. After 4 months of listening to these busted earphones, I have decided it is time to replace them with better sounding units. First off, it is my budget which I had to be concerned with. I am only willing to spend up to RM300 for a set of earphones and that narrow's my choice of earphones to a few brands. Second, I need a pair of earphone which can effectively 'seal' off any outside noise as I am a heavy traveller and noises from within the bus really irritates me when I am listening to my music. Lastly, it must be foldable or small so that I can carry them around easily. One thing to note when choosing these headphones are it's capability to be driven by the smallest amount of energy which we call it 'impedence'. If impedence are high, you may need to crank up the volume just to get the same effect of volume from other headphones which had a lower impedence with lower volume levels. As a result, your batteries from your MP3 player may die earlier.
After judging and reading many information that had been presented by audiophiles, I had only 3 choices left and they are:
1) Grado SR60
2) Sony MDR-NC6 (Noise Cancelling)
3) Sennheiser PX-100 (white)
4) Sony MDR-EX71SL(White) - Last option if all else fails.
Well, I proceed to test the units mentioned for the attributes that I need but the main factor that I am considering for a headphone are it's ability to seal outside noise off. I tested the Grado SR60 and kept in mind of how much the surrounding noise is kept at bay. But these babies really sounded good. I was practically in nirvana when songs where played using these headsets. The mids and highs were really crystal clear and bass was not bad too. However, the sound leakage from within the phone and outside was quite noticeable. Although the price is around RM300 for a pair of these might seemed worth it, judging from the sound leakage, I think it is not acceptable as a traveller's companion. Not to mention, it is bulky and not foldable so carrying it around may be cumbersome to me.
Next it was the Sennheiser PX-100. These babies are compact in size and it is foldable. Not to mention, they have carrying box too. In terms of sound, it is more or less the same as the SR60 although SR60 had more depth and the highs are much pronounced. For the PX-100, it seriously looks good and especially, the white ones :p But again, the sound leakage is quite noticeable and I had to put this unit a side for later consideration.
Next came the Sony MDR-NC6 (noise cancelling) headphones. I would like to start it by saying Whoa!! The surrounding noise was effectively cancelled out although there are still some noise present on the backgorund. The feeling as if I am 'sealed' into a room with and the surrounding areas are 'quite' quiet. As usual, the Sony headphones are 'boomy' in nature, i.e. they are heavy in the lower end (bass). But, for a traveller, these headphones would be a main choice because of it's noise cancelling function. As a result of the noise cancelling function, more details could be heard on the highs and not to mention, the lows as well. But the price tag is quite tounge scratching where it goes for RM288 for a pair of these. Batteries are not included :p.
I was on the verge of getting the MDR-NC6 but I gave the EX71SL a try. These units are actually 'In-Ear' phones. That means, you have to stuff these babies into the ear canal to get an effective sound. At first, I was quite apprehensive about having something getting stuck in my ear canal but nevertheless, out of curiosity, I gave it a try. I asked for a demo unit and the 'ear plugs' looked like it had went into some god knows what kind of ear canal. I mean, it looked filthy. Yucks. After some cleaning up, I stuffed them into my ear. Mated to my MP3 player, I cranked up the volume. At first I was utterly disappointed at how it sounded. DEAD. No bass or whatsoever. But then, carrying a price tag of RM168 for these small unit it had to be something right? So, I braved myself to stuff these things further into the ear. WHOAAAA!!! OH MY GOD!!! I had never felt such sweet sounding stuff to come out from such small units!!! They sounded beautiful!
My attention shited to this unit. I proceed to play a selected a few songs from my MP3 just to test them out if they could handle the music that I will be listening to. First up, the song 'Higher' from the band Creed. Ordinary ear-phones would have cracked under pressure when this song is rendered but these babies passed the test with flying colours. It handled the lows very well. This is a real tribute to the Mega Bass tech from Sony. Next, a song from Joshua Kadison titled 'An Invisible man'. Why I chose this song is because I would like to see how low the bass could go and this song had one of the deepest bass I had heard. You would seriously need a capable headphone to provide an accurate detail as to how the bass should sound like and again, it passed the test. For an earphone, I had never come across such a small unit which have the capability to drive bass to such a low level. Next, I tested it's ability to play acoustic stuff and this is where it did not shine very well, I chose Yukie Nishimura's song entitled 'Water Bright Dance'. It is a piano piece and to me, it should sound 'bright'. This unit showed that it had 'warmer' tone where the highs did not sound really bright to me. But, it is still acceptable as it still sounded like a piano nevertheless. At the same time, I am also looking into other details like the sound of the piano hammer knocking against the string. There is a distinctive 'knocking' sound whenever a note is played (I am on the brink of being a sound freak here) in this song. Although there is a presence of this knocking sound (indicating this in-ear phone's ability) but then, it is not prominent. Next I played Metallica's 'Sad but True', 'The God that Failed' and 'Struggle Within'. These are definitely earphones for Rockers. Overall I am quite satisfied with the sound. At the same time, these units are small to carry with and more importantly, it only cost me RM168. Compared to what I would need to spend, these were a bargain and without hesitation, I got one of these unit.
As for now, after 'burning' it for a whole week, my earphones began to show a much 'balanced' character. The bass is much acceptable right now where the highs are beginning to show it's colours. As for the package, there is a set of plastic containers for the earphones and also a carrying bag. Of course, with such tech, you need to maintain them as well where I usually would clean these units every 2 weeks just to make sure that earwax does not get into them. Overall, I found them to be quite comfortable as well and I did not have any issues of wearing them for a whole day at all. Also, these units are more 'boomy' compared to others where it showed alot of details on the low's. For those who loved R&B and Rock music, these are definitely for you.
Here are the discoveries I came across while using them.
1) You need to have some earwax left on your ears to get an 'effective' seal. Trust me, your gooey stuff from the ear is useful in this scenario. If it is too dry, sound would actually leak.
2) In terms of sound, these babies are heavy in bass. Real heavy. If you are a bass freak, go for these. R&B and Rock music sounded great using these earphones.
3) They are so effective in shutting out the outside noise that I could only hear faint sounds from the surrounding area. I felt as if I am totally shut out from the outside world. Don't use them on the road. You can never hear car's coming and trust me, I had tried :p.
For acoustic music lovers, I think you need to get other alternatives like Shure and Etymotic but then, you are paying twice the amount compared to EX71. I am currently looking into Shure's and Etymotics (In-Ear Phones) which had better quality and sound at the higher ranges compared to these Sony's but then, getting one of these would be the 8th most needed in my 'LIST OF NEEDS' :p. So, I am putting these thoughts aside for the current moment.
Right now, I am enjoying the song from Josh groban titled 'My Confession'. It really feels like heaven.
After judging and reading many information that had been presented by audiophiles, I had only 3 choices left and they are:
Well, I proceed to test the units mentioned for the attributes that I need but the main factor that I am considering for a headphone are it's ability to seal outside noise off. I tested the Grado SR60 and kept in mind of how much the surrounding noise is kept at bay. But these babies really sounded good. I was practically in nirvana when songs where played using these headsets. The mids and highs were really crystal clear and bass was not bad too. However, the sound leakage from within the phone and outside was quite noticeable. Although the price is around RM300 for a pair of these might seemed worth it, judging from the sound leakage, I think it is not acceptable as a traveller's companion. Not to mention, it is bulky and not foldable so carrying it around may be cumbersome to me.
Next it was the Sennheiser PX-100. These babies are compact in size and it is foldable. Not to mention, they have carrying box too. In terms of sound, it is more or less the same as the SR60 although SR60 had more depth and the highs are much pronounced. For the PX-100, it seriously looks good and especially, the white ones :p But again, the sound leakage is quite noticeable and I had to put this unit a side for later consideration.
Next came the Sony MDR-NC6 (noise cancelling) headphones. I would like to start it by saying Whoa!! The surrounding noise was effectively cancelled out although there are still some noise present on the backgorund. The feeling as if I am 'sealed' into a room with and the surrounding areas are 'quite' quiet. As usual, the Sony headphones are 'boomy' in nature, i.e. they are heavy in the lower end (bass). But, for a traveller, these headphones would be a main choice because of it's noise cancelling function. As a result of the noise cancelling function, more details could be heard on the highs and not to mention, the lows as well. But the price tag is quite tounge scratching where it goes for RM288 for a pair of these. Batteries are not included :p.
I was on the verge of getting the MDR-NC6 but I gave the EX71SL a try. These units are actually 'In-Ear' phones. That means, you have to stuff these babies into the ear canal to get an effective sound. At first, I was quite apprehensive about having something getting stuck in my ear canal but nevertheless, out of curiosity, I gave it a try. I asked for a demo unit and the 'ear plugs' looked like it had went into some god knows what kind of ear canal. I mean, it looked filthy. Yucks. After some cleaning up, I stuffed them into my ear. Mated to my MP3 player, I cranked up the volume. At first I was utterly disappointed at how it sounded. DEAD. No bass or whatsoever. But then, carrying a price tag of RM168 for these small unit it had to be something right? So, I braved myself to stuff these things further into the ear. WHOAAAA!!! OH MY GOD!!! I had never felt such sweet sounding stuff to come out from such small units!!! They sounded beautiful!
My attention shited to this unit. I proceed to play a selected a few songs from my MP3 just to test them out if they could handle the music that I will be listening to. First up, the song 'Higher' from the band Creed. Ordinary ear-phones would have cracked under pressure when this song is rendered but these babies passed the test with flying colours. It handled the lows very well. This is a real tribute to the Mega Bass tech from Sony. Next, a song from Joshua Kadison titled 'An Invisible man'. Why I chose this song is because I would like to see how low the bass could go and this song had one of the deepest bass I had heard. You would seriously need a capable headphone to provide an accurate detail as to how the bass should sound like and again, it passed the test. For an earphone, I had never come across such a small unit which have the capability to drive bass to such a low level. Next, I tested it's ability to play acoustic stuff and this is where it did not shine very well, I chose Yukie Nishimura's song entitled 'Water Bright Dance'. It is a piano piece and to me, it should sound 'bright'. This unit showed that it had 'warmer' tone where the highs did not sound really bright to me. But, it is still acceptable as it still sounded like a piano nevertheless. At the same time, I am also looking into other details like the sound of the piano hammer knocking against the string. There is a distinctive 'knocking' sound whenever a note is played (I am on the brink of being a sound freak here) in this song. Although there is a presence of this knocking sound (indicating this in-ear phone's ability) but then, it is not prominent. Next I played Metallica's 'Sad but True', 'The God that Failed' and 'Struggle Within'. These are definitely earphones for Rockers. Overall I am quite satisfied with the sound. At the same time, these units are small to carry with and more importantly, it only cost me RM168. Compared to what I would need to spend, these were a bargain and without hesitation, I got one of these unit.
As for now, after 'burning' it for a whole week, my earphones began to show a much 'balanced' character. The bass is much acceptable right now where the highs are beginning to show it's colours. As for the package, there is a set of plastic containers for the earphones and also a carrying bag. Of course, with such tech, you need to maintain them as well where I usually would clean these units every 2 weeks just to make sure that earwax does not get into them. Overall, I found them to be quite comfortable as well and I did not have any issues of wearing them for a whole day at all. Also, these units are more 'boomy' compared to others where it showed alot of details on the low's. For those who loved R&B and Rock music, these are definitely for you.
Here are the discoveries I came across while using them.
1) You need to have some earwax left on your ears to get an 'effective' seal. Trust me, your gooey stuff from the ear is useful in this scenario. If it is too dry, sound would actually leak.
2) In terms of sound, these babies are heavy in bass. Real heavy. If you are a bass freak, go for these. R&B and Rock music sounded great using these earphones.
3) They are so effective in shutting out the outside noise that I could only hear faint sounds from the surrounding area. I felt as if I am totally shut out from the outside world. Don't use them on the road. You can never hear car's coming and trust me, I had tried :p.
For acoustic music lovers, I think you need to get other alternatives like Shure and Etymotic but then, you are paying twice the amount compared to EX71. I am currently looking into Shure's and Etymotics (In-Ear Phones) which had better quality and sound at the higher ranges compared to these Sony's but then, getting one of these would be the 8th most needed in my 'LIST OF NEEDS' :p. So, I am putting these thoughts aside for the current moment.
Right now, I am enjoying the song from Josh groban titled 'My Confession'. It really feels like heaven.
Monday, June 19, 2006
My home run, PJ Half Marathon 2006
This year's edition of PJ Half Marathon was quite close to the same as previous one's. One of the main differences between this run as compared to any others are the commitment shown by the sponsors where the goody bags are alway filled to the brim. I mean, even us runners would be so happy in getting those stuff's, just imagine those non serious runners. My initial reaction towards the goody bags were the same as any previous years that I had participated in this run before where I would open eagerly and check out the contents inside. It was filled with drinks and stuff to be used. Reminded me of the previous PJ Half's.
Although I was busy the whole of Saturday, my mind was only thinking on the race itself. I had this nagging worry of the PJ Half 2004 episode revisited whereby I ran miserable 2hr 13++. At that time, there was an ongoing injury to my knees and coincidentally, this year was the same although the injury was less prominent. I had also looked back on my wrong use of strategy last year where I started too fast. At the same time, wrong use of shoes was also another contributiing factor. So for this year, I had decided to relax half of the way while as for the shoes, I chose my most trustworthy Asics Gel Cumulus. Nothing can surpass these babies in terms of cushioning and my knees would certainly need them to minimise the pain throughout the journey.
It was 4.30am and I was still in bed. I am supposed to be up by now and I slept all the way to 5.20am. Jason was at the front door!! I rushed and luckily we manage to get there in time. I think there were less runners this year compared to the last year and World Cup might be one of the reasons why. Manage to meet up with KNN, CM and Carboman at the toilet area. We while waiting for Tulangman to visit the toilet here. However, he is still no where to be seen and therefore I just proceed to the stadium to warm up. Runner's of all shape, size and age were seen all over the place. There is certainly an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness shown where runners with their families, friends, some with their young kids and small tots running around. It felt good.
Before long, I proceed towards the starting line and Shine was there. The strange thing was, the sense of feeling nervous was never present at all. Like previous years, I would usually be sweaty on my palms while feeling I was all turbo ready to shoot out to the front. The gun sounded and all runners just turboed ahead like bats out of hell. I started from behind while reminding myself to be relaxed. Before long, we were faced with first energy sapping climb towards the Federal Highway. I felt fine at this point and just tried to run a little faster but, never at a suicidal pace. Next, we were running along the federal highway and I knew a lot of runners would start to turbo around here as the route is flat. But I kept my pace in check because hell will be presented to unsuspecting runners after the Motorola Bridge. The first water station is in sight and I just took a gulp of 100Plus and plain water. Well, hell came sooner than I had expected. I suffered a stomach cramp for taking in cold drinks at this unscheduled period. Well, there is no choice for me but to carry on.
The first difficult part came when we had to climb the highway towards the airport and those whom had pushed hard earlier, they suffered here. Many runners were seen dragging their feets along while some were swearing obscenities for the pain that they had suffered. Then came the long and undulating road towards the airport. The undulation is actually not very visible if you are inside a vehicle but if you are actually running on the road, you would have certainly felt it. Not to mention, midway there were two overhead bridges that we need to climb and it is really mind
numbing. For the whole of this stretch, I just kept the turbo devil in me. Soon....it will be very soon...' these were the words playing throughout my mind during the course.
Spirit's up!(pictures courtesy of Tey)
Then the U-turn was in sight. After taking the ribbon, I started to give chase to the runners in front. I pushed at a relax pace just hoping to catch some runners in front and I felt ok at this point. I spotted KNN he seemed to be suffering so I tried to cheer him on. However, I made an error at the last water station where initially I had not plan to stop but out of the thirst, I stopped anyway. At this point the lactic acid just accumulated in my legs and I never recovered from there. It was pain and pain and pain on my legs so I had no choice but to walk and run at some points. At this point in time, I had to prioritise on what is most important to me. Number one on this agenda were my knees. Nothing can be more important than them. Number two were my ITB's. They felt like exloding out of my legs. I just chugged along. Those whom I had overtook earlier made a fool out of me where I was then left smelling their smoke.
At last the stadium was in sight and in the Spirit of Pia, I made my last attempt to push hard. I ran and ran at heart bursting pace while keeping my knees and ITB's in check. Made a few pass of runners with 'A' category while reaching the stadium, I just had no energy left to push. My hands and legs felt as if they weren't mine at all.My mind wanted them to run faster but they just refused.
I crossed the finish line at last.
I was totally surprised when the official handed me a card indicating my 185th position. I got a medal as well. To me, during the start of the race, my intention was not to get a medal but just to finish the run. That would be sufficient for me. In my history of so many years running PJ Half, this is only my second medal. That makes it even sweeter.
My 2nd PJ Half Medal
After the finishing line, all the PM's met up and exchanged each other's experiences. But generally, the run was never easy. It was a hot day and according to Tey, there were mishaps as well. Just visit tey's photo album on what had happened. I would like to congratulate all runners that had gone through the course. Whether you ran fast or
slow it doesn't matter at all. It is the resilience and your willpower to finish that counts. I Love my home run!
'Warriors'(pictures courtesy of Tey)
Me, CM and BOSE(pictures courtesy of Tey)
A testament to my hardwork
210km Men!!! No wonder the distance is endless!!
Although I was busy the whole of Saturday, my mind was only thinking on the race itself. I had this nagging worry of the PJ Half 2004 episode revisited whereby I ran miserable 2hr 13++. At that time, there was an ongoing injury to my knees and coincidentally, this year was the same although the injury was less prominent. I had also looked back on my wrong use of strategy last year where I started too fast. At the same time, wrong use of shoes was also another contributiing factor. So for this year, I had decided to relax half of the way while as for the shoes, I chose my most trustworthy Asics Gel Cumulus. Nothing can surpass these babies in terms of cushioning and my knees would certainly need them to minimise the pain throughout the journey.
It was 4.30am and I was still in bed. I am supposed to be up by now and I slept all the way to 5.20am. Jason was at the front door!! I rushed and luckily we manage to get there in time. I think there were less runners this year compared to the last year and World Cup might be one of the reasons why. Manage to meet up with KNN, CM and Carboman at the toilet area. We while waiting for Tulangman to visit the toilet here. However, he is still no where to be seen and therefore I just proceed to the stadium to warm up. Runner's of all shape, size and age were seen all over the place. There is certainly an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness shown where runners with their families, friends, some with their young kids and small tots running around. It felt good.
Before long, I proceed towards the starting line and Shine was there. The strange thing was, the sense of feeling nervous was never present at all. Like previous years, I would usually be sweaty on my palms while feeling I was all turbo ready to shoot out to the front. The gun sounded and all runners just turboed ahead like bats out of hell. I started from behind while reminding myself to be relaxed. Before long, we were faced with first energy sapping climb towards the Federal Highway. I felt fine at this point and just tried to run a little faster but, never at a suicidal pace. Next, we were running along the federal highway and I knew a lot of runners would start to turbo around here as the route is flat. But I kept my pace in check because hell will be presented to unsuspecting runners after the Motorola Bridge. The first water station is in sight and I just took a gulp of 100Plus and plain water. Well, hell came sooner than I had expected. I suffered a stomach cramp for taking in cold drinks at this unscheduled period. Well, there is no choice for me but to carry on.
The first difficult part came when we had to climb the highway towards the airport and those whom had pushed hard earlier, they suffered here. Many runners were seen dragging their feets along while some were swearing obscenities for the pain that they had suffered. Then came the long and undulating road towards the airport. The undulation is actually not very visible if you are inside a vehicle but if you are actually running on the road, you would have certainly felt it. Not to mention, midway there were two overhead bridges that we need to climb and it is really mind
numbing. For the whole of this stretch, I just kept the turbo devil in me. Soon....it will be very soon...' these were the words playing throughout my mind during the course.
Then the U-turn was in sight. After taking the ribbon, I started to give chase to the runners in front. I pushed at a relax pace just hoping to catch some runners in front and I felt ok at this point. I spotted KNN he seemed to be suffering so I tried to cheer him on. However, I made an error at the last water station where initially I had not plan to stop but out of the thirst, I stopped anyway. At this point the lactic acid just accumulated in my legs and I never recovered from there. It was pain and pain and pain on my legs so I had no choice but to walk and run at some points. At this point in time, I had to prioritise on what is most important to me. Number one on this agenda were my knees. Nothing can be more important than them. Number two were my ITB's. They felt like exloding out of my legs. I just chugged along. Those whom I had overtook earlier made a fool out of me where I was then left smelling their smoke.
At last the stadium was in sight and in the Spirit of Pia, I made my last attempt to push hard. I ran and ran at heart bursting pace while keeping my knees and ITB's in check. Made a few pass of runners with 'A' category while reaching the stadium, I just had no energy left to push. My hands and legs felt as if they weren't mine at all.My mind wanted them to run faster but they just refused.
I crossed the finish line at last.
I was totally surprised when the official handed me a card indicating my 185th position. I got a medal as well. To me, during the start of the race, my intention was not to get a medal but just to finish the run. That would be sufficient for me. In my history of so many years running PJ Half, this is only my second medal. That makes it even sweeter.
After the finishing line, all the PM's met up and exchanged each other's experiences. But generally, the run was never easy. It was a hot day and according to Tey, there were mishaps as well. Just visit tey's photo album on what had happened. I would like to congratulate all runners that had gone through the course. Whether you ran fast or
slow it doesn't matter at all. It is the resilience and your willpower to finish that counts. I Love my home run!
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Limerence
Well, this would be a posting that contained the latest science of study on love. As I had went through an emotional roller coaster ride a few weeks ago, I am somewhat settled right now. My feelings of 'settled' does not mean that she is not in my heart anymore. She was one of those beautiful things that came into my life and worthy to be etched in the pages of my life chapters. But nevertheless, I am attempting to study myself and my feelings so as to be able to know myself better with the hope that one day, I can give unconditionally, whatever I have to HER while in return, LOVE will descend upon me. If that ever happens, there will not be anymore regrets during this lifetime. At the same time, I am seriously writing because I want to be matured in handling my feelings and not to act like a small kiddo when it comes to these matters. This article were not meant to grab any attention at all. I just want to.....express and let out my feelings.
Well, this study would prove to be an eye opener where it explores the deepest thoughts and our hearts. It revealed so much that I had been thinking, whether we are built to be the same as one another. Anyway, this is an extract from Wikipedia and it proved to be one of those very interesting articles that I had been reading. It starts off with the definition of 'Limerence'. Enjoy:
Limerence
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Limerence is a state of mind characterized by intrusive thinking, longing, uncertainty, hope, misperception, fantasies, and passion. Limerence has been described as "having a crush", "infatuation", "passionate love", "puppy love", "romantic love" or "being in love." It is important to note that limerence is neither love nor sexual attraction. Love, sexual attraction, and limerence can all exist without each other or any or all of them can coexist together.
Limerence begins as a barely perceptible feeling of increased interest in a particular person, known as the limerent object, but one which, if nurtured by appropriate conditions, can grow to enormous intensity. In most cases it also declines, eventually to zero or to a low level. At this low level, limerence is either transformed through reciprocation or it is transferred to another person who then becomes the new limerent object. Under the best of conditions the waning of limerence through mutuality is accompanied by the growth of the emotional response more suitably described as love.
-Well, this article is interesting due to the fact that the situations that I am facing is 'somewhat' similar as per the description of the article above. It is very difficult to express what I am feeling but then, at this current moment, this is the best article to put my feelings on par.
But the question is that my feelings had not subsided. In the article, it had mentioned that our feeling should subside. To me, it is repressed but never subsides. My need to hear from her was so intense that it nearly drove me nuts but that was many weeks ago. At the current moment, the feeling is somewhat....CONTROLLED. I could control those feeling of longing for the person. I can supress them now. These signs were quite similar to what had been described below:
Limerence has certain basic components:
* intrusive thinking about the limerent object
* acute longing for reciprocation
* some fleeting and transient relief from unrequited limerence through vivid imagining of action by the limerent object that means reciprocation
* fear of rejection and unsettling shyness in the limerent object's presence
* intensification through adversity
* acute sensitivity to any act, thought, or condition that can be interpreted favorably, and an extraordinary ability to devise or invent "reasonable" explanations for why neutral actions are a sign of hidden passion in the limerent object
* an aching in the chest when uncertainty is strong
* buoyancy (a feeling of walking on air) when reciprocation seems evident
* a general intensity of feeling that leaves other concerns in the background
* a remarkable ability to emphasize what is truly admirable in the limerent object and to avoid dwelling on the negative or render it into another positive attribute.
-The description of Limerence is so through that I had went through these:
Crystallization
from Stendhal's 1822 work On Love, is a process in which the limerent object’s attractive characteristics are emphasized and unattractive characteristics given little or no attention, or even seen as attractive. The attributes are not pure inventions; the existing features of the limerent object merely undergo enhancement. Objectively trivial aspects of the limerent object’s appearance or behavior may be seized on and the good qualities endlessly re-visualized in the limerent consciousness. Neutral aspects of the limerent object are perceived as charming and delightful.
No matter what the limerent object does it can be interpreted favorably, at least up to a point. There is an amazing capacity to react positively to deficiencies. The limerent reaction may miss by a wide mark the truly important features or ignore serious problems in the limerent object.
Intrusive thinking
During the height of limerence, thoughts of the limerent object are both persistent and intrusive. Limerence is first and foremost a condition of cognitive obsession. All events, associations, stimuli, and experiences return thoughts to the limerent object with unnerving consistency. The constant thoughts about the limerent object define all other experiences. If a certain thought has no previous connection with the limerent object, immediately one is made.
Limerent fantasy is unsatisfactory unless rooted in reality. Sometimes it is retrospective; actual events are replayed from memory. This form predominates when what is viewed as evidence of possible reciprocation can be re-experienced. Otherwise, the long fantasy is anticipatory; it begins in the everyday world and climaxes at the attainment of the limerent goal. A limerent fantasy can also involve an unusual, often tragic, event.
The long fantasies form bridges between the limerent's ordinary life and that intensely desired ecstatic moment. The duration and complexity of a fantasy depend on the availability of time and freedom from distractions. The bliss of the imagined moment of consummation is greater when events imagined to precede it are possible. In fact they often represent grave departures from the probable.
It is not entirely pleasant, and when rejection seems likely the thoughts focus on despair. The pleasantness or unpleasantness of the state seems almost unrelated to the intensity of the reaction. Although the direction of feeling, i.e. happy versus unhappy, shifts rapidly, the intensity of intrusive thinking alters less rapidly, and alters only in response to an accumulation of experiences with the particular limerent object.
Fear of rejection
Along with the emphasis on positive qualities perceived in the limerent object, and preoccupation with the hope for return of feelings, there is a fear that limerence will be met by the very opposite of reciprocation: rejection. Considerable self-doubt and uncertainty is experienced and it causes pain, but also enhances desire.
Limerent fear of rejection is usually confined to shyness in the presence of the limerent object, but it can also spread to situations involving other potential limerent objects, though generally it does not affect other spheres of life.
Although it appears that limerence blossoms under some forms of adversity, extreme caution, even immobility, and shyness based on fear of giving the limerent object an undesirable view can prevent a relationship from occurring even when both people are interested.
Physical effects
The physiological correlations of limerence are heart palpitations, trembling, pallor, flushing, pupil dilation and general weakness. Awkwardness, stammering, shyness, and confusion predominate at the behavioral level. There is apprehension, nervousness, and anxiety due to terrible worry that any action may bring about disaster. Many of the commonly associated physiological reactions are the result of the limerent fear.
The super-sensitivity that is heightened by fear of rejection can get in the way of interpreting the limerent object’s body language and lead to inaction and wasted opportunities. Bodily signals may be emitted that confuse and interfere with attaining the limerent object.
A condition of sustained alertness, a heightening of awareness and an enormous fund of energy to deploy in pursuit of the limerent aim develop. The sensation of limerence is felt in the midpoint of the chest. This is ecstasy at times of mutuality and despair at times of rejection.
-These are some of the things which I had went through and I know, supressing those feelings were never healthy in the first place. But this is all I can do now. I tried calling, smsing and emailing but there had not been a 'favourable' response. Am I too desperate? I think I am. A slight response from her would put me into disarray and in my lifetime, I never guess this would happen to me. For god's sake, I am not that 'young' anymore but when it comes to these matters, I guess everybody would be the same. It is sweet yet bitter in taste.
As for now, I am not even sure that it will or will not work. But then, I am not pondering on these questions anymore. I was concentrating on the fact that, all things would begin as a FRIEND. I'll just try to move slowly from there. In reality, there wasn't any LOVE in the first place. But to have a serious crush on someone is definitely quite 'exhilirating'. To me, it definitely is a crush but whether it will go onto love, it is entirely another matter. To develop these feelings into LOVE would require serious commitment from our part as well the the partner's but then, my heart is secretly nudging itself into this realm. Why? I am developing a sense of 'caring' for her welfare and feelings. The sensation is overwhelming at times but I am 'containing' it at this moment.
My feelings are like tidal waves trying to breach it's banks. Will I be able to contain it? I hope so. I do not want to have an aftermath where the wave destroy's everything in it's path when the banks are breached.
Well, the conclusion is hard to predict at this current moment. Will it crystallise? I hope so. For now, I'll just continue to do what I can, that is to give her, 'Unconditional Care'.
Well, this study would prove to be an eye opener where it explores the deepest thoughts and our hearts. It revealed so much that I had been thinking, whether we are built to be the same as one another. Anyway, this is an extract from Wikipedia and it proved to be one of those very interesting articles that I had been reading. It starts off with the definition of 'Limerence'. Enjoy:
Limerence
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Limerence is a state of mind characterized by intrusive thinking, longing, uncertainty, hope, misperception, fantasies, and passion. Limerence has been described as "having a crush", "infatuation", "passionate love", "puppy love", "romantic love" or "being in love." It is important to note that limerence is neither love nor sexual attraction. Love, sexual attraction, and limerence can all exist without each other or any or all of them can coexist together.
Limerence begins as a barely perceptible feeling of increased interest in a particular person, known as the limerent object, but one which, if nurtured by appropriate conditions, can grow to enormous intensity. In most cases it also declines, eventually to zero or to a low level. At this low level, limerence is either transformed through reciprocation or it is transferred to another person who then becomes the new limerent object. Under the best of conditions the waning of limerence through mutuality is accompanied by the growth of the emotional response more suitably described as love.
-Well, this article is interesting due to the fact that the situations that I am facing is 'somewhat' similar as per the description of the article above. It is very difficult to express what I am feeling but then, at this current moment, this is the best article to put my feelings on par.
But the question is that my feelings had not subsided. In the article, it had mentioned that our feeling should subside. To me, it is repressed but never subsides. My need to hear from her was so intense that it nearly drove me nuts but that was many weeks ago. At the current moment, the feeling is somewhat....CONTROLLED. I could control those feeling of longing for the person. I can supress them now. These signs were quite similar to what had been described below:
Limerence has certain basic components:
* intrusive thinking about the limerent object
* acute longing for reciprocation
* some fleeting and transient relief from unrequited limerence through vivid imagining of action by the limerent object that means reciprocation
* fear of rejection and unsettling shyness in the limerent object's presence
* intensification through adversity
* acute sensitivity to any act, thought, or condition that can be interpreted favorably, and an extraordinary ability to devise or invent "reasonable" explanations for why neutral actions are a sign of hidden passion in the limerent object
* an aching in the chest when uncertainty is strong
* buoyancy (a feeling of walking on air) when reciprocation seems evident
* a general intensity of feeling that leaves other concerns in the background
* a remarkable ability to emphasize what is truly admirable in the limerent object and to avoid dwelling on the negative or render it into another positive attribute.
-The description of Limerence is so through that I had went through these:
Crystallization
from Stendhal's 1822 work On Love, is a process in which the limerent object’s attractive characteristics are emphasized and unattractive characteristics given little or no attention, or even seen as attractive. The attributes are not pure inventions; the existing features of the limerent object merely undergo enhancement. Objectively trivial aspects of the limerent object’s appearance or behavior may be seized on and the good qualities endlessly re-visualized in the limerent consciousness. Neutral aspects of the limerent object are perceived as charming and delightful.
No matter what the limerent object does it can be interpreted favorably, at least up to a point. There is an amazing capacity to react positively to deficiencies. The limerent reaction may miss by a wide mark the truly important features or ignore serious problems in the limerent object.
Intrusive thinking
During the height of limerence, thoughts of the limerent object are both persistent and intrusive. Limerence is first and foremost a condition of cognitive obsession. All events, associations, stimuli, and experiences return thoughts to the limerent object with unnerving consistency. The constant thoughts about the limerent object define all other experiences. If a certain thought has no previous connection with the limerent object, immediately one is made.
Limerent fantasy is unsatisfactory unless rooted in reality. Sometimes it is retrospective; actual events are replayed from memory. This form predominates when what is viewed as evidence of possible reciprocation can be re-experienced. Otherwise, the long fantasy is anticipatory; it begins in the everyday world and climaxes at the attainment of the limerent goal. A limerent fantasy can also involve an unusual, often tragic, event.
The long fantasies form bridges between the limerent's ordinary life and that intensely desired ecstatic moment. The duration and complexity of a fantasy depend on the availability of time and freedom from distractions. The bliss of the imagined moment of consummation is greater when events imagined to precede it are possible. In fact they often represent grave departures from the probable.
It is not entirely pleasant, and when rejection seems likely the thoughts focus on despair. The pleasantness or unpleasantness of the state seems almost unrelated to the intensity of the reaction. Although the direction of feeling, i.e. happy versus unhappy, shifts rapidly, the intensity of intrusive thinking alters less rapidly, and alters only in response to an accumulation of experiences with the particular limerent object.
Fear of rejection
Along with the emphasis on positive qualities perceived in the limerent object, and preoccupation with the hope for return of feelings, there is a fear that limerence will be met by the very opposite of reciprocation: rejection. Considerable self-doubt and uncertainty is experienced and it causes pain, but also enhances desire.
Limerent fear of rejection is usually confined to shyness in the presence of the limerent object, but it can also spread to situations involving other potential limerent objects, though generally it does not affect other spheres of life.
Although it appears that limerence blossoms under some forms of adversity, extreme caution, even immobility, and shyness based on fear of giving the limerent object an undesirable view can prevent a relationship from occurring even when both people are interested.
Physical effects
The physiological correlations of limerence are heart palpitations, trembling, pallor, flushing, pupil dilation and general weakness. Awkwardness, stammering, shyness, and confusion predominate at the behavioral level. There is apprehension, nervousness, and anxiety due to terrible worry that any action may bring about disaster. Many of the commonly associated physiological reactions are the result of the limerent fear.
The super-sensitivity that is heightened by fear of rejection can get in the way of interpreting the limerent object’s body language and lead to inaction and wasted opportunities. Bodily signals may be emitted that confuse and interfere with attaining the limerent object.
A condition of sustained alertness, a heightening of awareness and an enormous fund of energy to deploy in pursuit of the limerent aim develop. The sensation of limerence is felt in the midpoint of the chest. This is ecstasy at times of mutuality and despair at times of rejection.
-These are some of the things which I had went through and I know, supressing those feelings were never healthy in the first place. But this is all I can do now. I tried calling, smsing and emailing but there had not been a 'favourable' response. Am I too desperate? I think I am. A slight response from her would put me into disarray and in my lifetime, I never guess this would happen to me. For god's sake, I am not that 'young' anymore but when it comes to these matters, I guess everybody would be the same. It is sweet yet bitter in taste.
As for now, I am not even sure that it will or will not work. But then, I am not pondering on these questions anymore. I was concentrating on the fact that, all things would begin as a FRIEND. I'll just try to move slowly from there. In reality, there wasn't any LOVE in the first place. But to have a serious crush on someone is definitely quite 'exhilirating'. To me, it definitely is a crush but whether it will go onto love, it is entirely another matter. To develop these feelings into LOVE would require serious commitment from our part as well the the partner's but then, my heart is secretly nudging itself into this realm. Why? I am developing a sense of 'caring' for her welfare and feelings. The sensation is overwhelming at times but I am 'containing' it at this moment.
My feelings are like tidal waves trying to breach it's banks. Will I be able to contain it? I hope so. I do not want to have an aftermath where the wave destroy's everything in it's path when the banks are breached.
Well, the conclusion is hard to predict at this current moment. Will it crystallise? I hope so. For now, I'll just continue to do what I can, that is to give her, 'Unconditional Care'.
Monday, June 05, 2006
Orange Days(オレンジデイズ)
Movie: Orange Days(オレンジデイズ)
Type: Japanese Drama (Eng Sub)
Length: 11 Episodes (avg 59 Min/episode)
I had just finished watching the Japanese Drama 'Orange Days' (thanks bro, I downloaded from your comp). Well, To give you a brief idea of what this movie is, below are a brief sypnosis from jdorama.com
'Kai Yuuki (Satoshi Tsumabuki) is in his senior year at university studying social welfare psychology. At present, he is in the middle of job-hunting season. He is finding it difficult with no job offers so far.
One day, he meets a girl who is playing violin in the campus. She is Sae Hagio (Kou Shibasaki). In marked contrast to her beautiful tone and attractive looks, her personality is somewhat impertinent. And to top it off, she communicates through very vulgar sign language.
Four years ago, she lost the most important thing for a violinist - her hearing. As a result Sae closed off her inner self from the outside world.
Kai finds himself on a date with Sae, in place of his best friend. Unexpectedly, he comes into contact with Sae's private side.
Love, job-hunting, friendship... Setting a campus in spring as a dorama`s backdrop, it's the start of a glittering youth drama.'
Kou Shibasaki actually played the character very well for a deaf girl and her expressions through her sign language is superb. The same goes to Satoshi Tsumabuki. Their frustrations and happiness can be clearly seen from the way they communicate with their hands. The last episode is one of the best endings I had seen where it clearly shows that Love triumphs everything. The way 'Kai Yuuki' expressed during the last few minutes of the movie was really heart warming and moving. He said:
'In that year, I had found the light of my life. She is the light'
Here are some of the comments from other viewers (adapted from jdorama.com)
Speechless.... [Rating: 9/10]
from the very 1st episode,i was hooked on to this jdorama..i liked kou shibasaki since GOOD LUCK and in the jdorama i was not disappointed with her acting...and her chemistry with the lead actor is so good that i wish it happen in their real life...and the finale to this drama is also very touching...i can almost sensed Kai's feelings at that time when he hear Sae say out his name...it was so touching that Sae got the courage to speak out and Kai is so happy that he is there to support and love her...as what he say,"i have found the light of my life,she is the light"...i am so happy that i did not give this jdorama a miss...great show...
Reviewed by funny face on 16 October 2004
Pretty good [Rating: 8/10]
Pretty good drama. During the course of the drama, I even pick up some easy sign language. Highly recommended. Trust me on this!
Reviewed by Titicamara82 on 14 January 2005
i love this!!! [Rating: 10/10]
the best j-dorama for me so far...i love the whole concept of the series, the characters are very well-portrayed...plus the whole sign language thing...even if they don't say anything most of the times, sae and kai are still able to affect you. makes you treasure your friends more. the best!!!
Reviewed by jekert on 30 April 2005
Orange Daze [Rating: 9/10]
This is a really good series, that definately grew on me. Although I didn't find the main characters incredibly likeable at first (Sae especially), after a few episodes they really started to open up, and you see their subtleties.
The characters are pretty emotional for much of the show, but they have balanced out that bitter-sweetness with Keita and his 'Orange Society' plans (hehe). The story overall is very personal, and stays focused on the small group of friends, without straying too much. It captures that intensity of college life/love well.
It's also quite interesting how 'flawed' many of the characters are, in a human way. They can be quite hurtful to one another. They get angry, jealous, and selfish. You get to see both sides, not just the 'perfect' view of their personalities.
A fun and satisfying show, that will make you think. Watch it! :)
Reviewed by shelf on 13 August 2005
There i've said it. Now go and get the DVD with english subs. For ladies, get your tissues ready. ;p
Type: Japanese Drama (Eng Sub)
Length: 11 Episodes (avg 59 Min/episode)
I had just finished watching the Japanese Drama 'Orange Days' (thanks bro, I downloaded from your comp). Well, To give you a brief idea of what this movie is, below are a brief sypnosis from jdorama.com
'Kai Yuuki (Satoshi Tsumabuki) is in his senior year at university studying social welfare psychology. At present, he is in the middle of job-hunting season. He is finding it difficult with no job offers so far.
One day, he meets a girl who is playing violin in the campus. She is Sae Hagio (Kou Shibasaki). In marked contrast to her beautiful tone and attractive looks, her personality is somewhat impertinent. And to top it off, she communicates through very vulgar sign language.
Four years ago, she lost the most important thing for a violinist - her hearing. As a result Sae closed off her inner self from the outside world.
Kai finds himself on a date with Sae, in place of his best friend. Unexpectedly, he comes into contact with Sae's private side.
Love, job-hunting, friendship... Setting a campus in spring as a dorama`s backdrop, it's the start of a glittering youth drama.'
Kou Shibasaki actually played the character very well for a deaf girl and her expressions through her sign language is superb. The same goes to Satoshi Tsumabuki. Their frustrations and happiness can be clearly seen from the way they communicate with their hands. The last episode is one of the best endings I had seen where it clearly shows that Love triumphs everything. The way 'Kai Yuuki' expressed during the last few minutes of the movie was really heart warming and moving. He said:
'In that year, I had found the light of my life. She is the light'
Here are some of the comments from other viewers (adapted from jdorama.com)
Speechless.... [Rating: 9/10]
from the very 1st episode,i was hooked on to this jdorama..i liked kou shibasaki since GOOD LUCK and in the jdorama i was not disappointed with her acting...and her chemistry with the lead actor is so good that i wish it happen in their real life...and the finale to this drama is also very touching...i can almost sensed Kai's feelings at that time when he hear Sae say out his name...it was so touching that Sae got the courage to speak out and Kai is so happy that he is there to support and love her...as what he say,"i have found the light of my life,she is the light"...i am so happy that i did not give this jdorama a miss...great show...
Reviewed by funny face on 16 October 2004
Pretty good [Rating: 8/10]
Pretty good drama. During the course of the drama, I even pick up some easy sign language. Highly recommended. Trust me on this!
Reviewed by Titicamara82 on 14 January 2005
i love this!!! [Rating: 10/10]
the best j-dorama for me so far...i love the whole concept of the series, the characters are very well-portrayed...plus the whole sign language thing...even if they don't say anything most of the times, sae and kai are still able to affect you. makes you treasure your friends more. the best!!!
Reviewed by jekert on 30 April 2005
Orange Daze [Rating: 9/10]
This is a really good series, that definately grew on me. Although I didn't find the main characters incredibly likeable at first (Sae especially), after a few episodes they really started to open up, and you see their subtleties.
The characters are pretty emotional for much of the show, but they have balanced out that bitter-sweetness with Keita and his 'Orange Society' plans (hehe). The story overall is very personal, and stays focused on the small group of friends, without straying too much. It captures that intensity of college life/love well.
It's also quite interesting how 'flawed' many of the characters are, in a human way. They can be quite hurtful to one another. They get angry, jealous, and selfish. You get to see both sides, not just the 'perfect' view of their personalities.
A fun and satisfying show, that will make you think. Watch it! :)
Reviewed by shelf on 13 August 2005
There i've said it. Now go and get the DVD with english subs. For ladies, get your tissues ready. ;p
Sunday, June 04, 2006
2nd Pacemakers Anniversary Run 2006
The pacemakers had been in existence for the second year now. The fact that the Pacemakers could exist up until today can be fully attributed to the fact that it's members are very much committed and love the sport of Running. For me, being in Pacemakers carrying the tag PM25 for the second year in the row means very much in my heart. The race n 3rd June is the testament that the Pacemakers are here to stay although some of it's members had seen an increased weight in personal responsibilities, but the fact remained that they are still runners and took their time out to participate in this race. At the same time, the registration of this race had been fully subscribed where there were no additional slots to accommodate runners and they had to be put onto the waiting list. There had been a change in this year's format where we are required to run relays.
The heat of the run had already begun when the pacemaker members had put up their respective posters where Der TNS team and Der Fantastic Four sounded their horn of challenge on May 26. They were closely followed by the Rocket Turtles (OX Team), Der Penguins and then Der PJ-Sub team. The last team submitted the poster was The young and dangerous team. Meanwhile, many of it's members had already begun the 'serious' training towards the race where time and time again, these guys broke their respective PR's at the KLCC park so as to show that they are a force to be reckon with when the day comes.
On Saturday 3 June, it was a good day to begin with although there were signs of rain is about to pour. But then, all the runners turned up for this race and the atmosphere felt like it was a one big family gathering. Our race directors made all the necessary briefing and then the introduction of all the racing team starts. I am in the Young and Dangerous team although on the firsthand, I never expected the results to be that good. My team consist of Kevin Chow-PM32, Jack Toh-PM14(our fastest runner) and Bose-PM16. While chatting with them I could feel that it will be this day when all the PR's of the KLCC park will be easily erased. Their coomitment in their eyes and their eagerness can be felt easily by the way they are preparing themselves. I was slated to be the first runner because I am supposed to be in charged of taking their time down and this proved to be very tense because usually, first runners are the one where they will try to distance themselves from the opponent at every available opportunity.
Before long, Rohaizad (our sponsor) flagged us off. Everybody (the first runners) took off as if rockets had been attached to them. I struggled to follow them but I knew I cannot be to far away from the second runner. I manage to follow them up the the first lap whereby I clocked my personal best of 5.14. I could not believe my eyes where I could run this fast. But the problem starts when I was in the second lap when my energy levels were getting low. In fact by last few hundred metres, I was overtaken by few runners and the timing of 6.05 was the testament to this poor showing. Next I passed the baton to Kevin and by the time he took off, I was still trying to recover from the lack of oxygen in my system. Kevin blazed though the track in 5.30(1st Lap) and 5.47(2nd lap) easily. Next it was Jack Toh and he proved to be the strongest of all when he broke the Lap record by recoridng a 4.19(lap 1) and 4.53(lap 2). By the time he passed the baton to Bose, suddenly the whole race turned very pressurize as we are the first team ahead. Bose blazed through the track in an undissapointing 5.13(lap 1) and 5.41(lap 2). We won the race. No....everybody won the race because everybody ran like bat out of hell and our lungs were stuck to our mouths. We just merely finished ahead......
In my life, this will probably the trophy which will ever mention the word champion and all credit had to be given to my team.
'Everybody is a Winner'. This is a tagline that Ronnie mentioned in the blog. Why? Because, everybody deserved to be praised for their unrelenting 'pia' over the distance of 2km. I mean running at the top of your heart rate for this long distance really felt like there is no breath going into your lungs and your heart felt like exploding. Not only that, the feeling was that of you had no control over your arms and legs. They felt dead, like robots.
Thanks Ronnie, and all the organisers, sponsors and also, the members for making this happen. To me, once a pacemaker, will always be a pacemaker. Just because I joined pacemakers, I am not professing to be different from others.
I profess.....Love for Running.
The 2nd Pacemakers Anniversary Run
The heat of the run had already begun when the pacemaker members had put up their respective posters where Der TNS team and Der Fantastic Four sounded their horn of challenge on May 26. They were closely followed by the Rocket Turtles (OX Team), Der Penguins and then Der PJ-Sub team. The last team submitted the poster was The young and dangerous team. Meanwhile, many of it's members had already begun the 'serious' training towards the race where time and time again, these guys broke their respective PR's at the KLCC park so as to show that they are a force to be reckon with when the day comes.
On Saturday 3 June, it was a good day to begin with although there were signs of rain is about to pour. But then, all the runners turned up for this race and the atmosphere felt like it was a one big family gathering. Our race directors made all the necessary briefing and then the introduction of all the racing team starts. I am in the Young and Dangerous team although on the firsthand, I never expected the results to be that good. My team consist of Kevin Chow-PM32, Jack Toh-PM14(our fastest runner) and Bose-PM16. While chatting with them I could feel that it will be this day when all the PR's of the KLCC park will be easily erased. Their coomitment in their eyes and their eagerness can be felt easily by the way they are preparing themselves. I was slated to be the first runner because I am supposed to be in charged of taking their time down and this proved to be very tense because usually, first runners are the one where they will try to distance themselves from the opponent at every available opportunity.
Before long, Rohaizad (our sponsor) flagged us off. Everybody (the first runners) took off as if rockets had been attached to them. I struggled to follow them but I knew I cannot be to far away from the second runner. I manage to follow them up the the first lap whereby I clocked my personal best of 5.14. I could not believe my eyes where I could run this fast. But the problem starts when I was in the second lap when my energy levels were getting low. In fact by last few hundred metres, I was overtaken by few runners and the timing of 6.05 was the testament to this poor showing. Next I passed the baton to Kevin and by the time he took off, I was still trying to recover from the lack of oxygen in my system. Kevin blazed though the track in 5.30(1st Lap) and 5.47(2nd lap) easily. Next it was Jack Toh and he proved to be the strongest of all when he broke the Lap record by recoridng a 4.19(lap 1) and 4.53(lap 2). By the time he passed the baton to Bose, suddenly the whole race turned very pressurize as we are the first team ahead. Bose blazed through the track in an undissapointing 5.13(lap 1) and 5.41(lap 2). We won the race. No....everybody won the race because everybody ran like bat out of hell and our lungs were stuck to our mouths. We just merely finished ahead......
In my life, this will probably the trophy which will ever mention the word champion and all credit had to be given to my team.
'Everybody is a Winner'. This is a tagline that Ronnie mentioned in the blog. Why? Because, everybody deserved to be praised for their unrelenting 'pia' over the distance of 2km. I mean running at the top of your heart rate for this long distance really felt like there is no breath going into your lungs and your heart felt like exploding. Not only that, the feeling was that of you had no control over your arms and legs. They felt dead, like robots.
Thanks Ronnie, and all the organisers, sponsors and also, the members for making this happen. To me, once a pacemaker, will always be a pacemaker. Just because I joined pacemakers, I am not professing to be different from others.
I profess.....Love for Running.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
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