365 days after TNF100 2011

Today mark the first anniversary of my first ever TNF race… it could also be my last; we’ll never know.

I didn’t have any plans to join this race. BDM is crazy. Why on earth should I subject myself to something crazier? Well, I don’t know. 

A newfound friend literally sold the idea to me. He made it appear so enticing, it got me thinking. With most of my friends going into multi-sport, what’s next for me? This could be it. 

Well, I did it. It was scary running without support, in total darkness during night time (I am glad Casper was not anywhere near me), and i was in the woods where I dreaded the presence of snakes. 

What can I say now? Here’s the note I wrote two days after the race…

I just woke up and i walked like a zombie. Last night on the bus, I realized that my feet and legs are a bit swollen… they looked bigger this morning and my ankle is swollen too.

I am still dazed… If there is a word that is much better than happy; I guess I am in that state. My physical pain and maladies are masked by that feeling.

This race was never part of my list… I have done a number of ultramarathon and I thought BDM would be the icing on the cake of all my ultra races. TNF 100 is so much more! BDM will always be SPECIAL to me and I guess the degree of difficulty of the two races is truly different owing to the fact that BDM is road and TNF is trail and may I emphasize — self-supporting.

BDM is supposed to be my last race before I leave the country next week for professional advancement. I really didn’t have plans of doing any race because I wanted to really rest and recover. The idea of doing the TNF was initially floated by Yob, which he posted on my FB wall/status several days  after the BDM. I f I can remember it right, I actually told him that I will never do it.

If my memory serves me right, a fellow BDM finisher and a public servant asked me to consider doing the TNF second week of March. He literally pushed the idea and of course crazy as it may, I succumbed to the pressure because he also promised that we’ll train together and that he’ll never leave me come race day. He was also very generous with his time telling me over and over again his experience when he did TNF 100 in Baguio last year. If there is one person who would get my deepest THANK YOU, it would be him.

I consulted two friends who successfully did TNF 100, Nao (Baguio) and Dhenz (Sacobia and Baguio). Nao sent me a very informative message, which i pondered for a day. I chatted with Dhenz and asked him all the things that I wanted to know, his pointers were really helpful. The idea of these two wonderful people sealed the deal. Thank you so much to the two of you.

Initially, I didn’t tell my closest running friends that I am doing TNF. I already know their reactions hehehe but I have to give it to them. The moment they knew, they were very supportive after the initial guffaws and what have you’s.

So before I get carried away and turn this note into a blog let me just thank the following friends who one way or another helped me in this new achievement.

1. To Maj Jun Cunanan: the one person who bullied me, coached me, trained me, and made me his unwilling protege’ THANK YOU SO MUCH, SIR! I truly appreciate everything that you did for me for this race, words are really not enough. Thank you for staying with me, Cheryl, Aaron, Donie and Erell all the way. You were awesome back there. Truly a feeling and self-less individual who never left us even if you have a goal of your own. I’m sorry if at some point my emotions and physical issues got the better of me. I really don’t have any justification for it…

2. To Boypra: my willing training partner, my newfound baby brother — salamat, bebe! To Dabong, kahit pawala wala ka, dude hehehe Thank you! Kebur parin ang the best hehehe at kahit walang falls sa Montalban happy parin.

3. To Yob: Thank you so much! I will always be thankful that I met you. Looking forward to doing those crazy ultramarathons with you in the not so distant future. Thank you for believing in me and for all the messages that you sent.

I am a proud friend!

4. To my Team Baldrunner friends, Iah, Tin, Helen, Maridol, Mark, Jerry, Macky, Kaye, JV, Carlo, Mikko: Thank you so much! We have come a long way since our speed training days. When most of you ventured into multi-sports, I had nowhere to go. I found a new trail, guys and i guess I will stick with it for a while 🙂 I miss you all! Let’s get ready to parteeeeeehhhh!!!

Team Baldrunner Professionals

5. To Team Boring: thank you sa lahat ng suporta, words of encouragement at sa pagkakaibigan — GROUP HUG! I hope I made you proud 🙂

6. To Team CB: Thank you sa inyong lahat! Miss ko na kayo!

7. To JJ, Mai, and Leya: Ano ba ang masasabi ko mga kapatid, kundi salamat! Alam nyo na kung anong nilalaman ng aking puso nyahahahahaha

8. To Ate Marga: Thank you, Ate Luvs for everything. Your love never seizes to amaze me. I truly love you! mwaaaahhhh

I love you so much, ate luvs!

9. To my bestfriend: Thank you, Addict! Alam mo na yun hihihihi

10. To Jaq: Thank you, sis!

11. To my new found friends: Cheryl and Aaron: Thank you so much! The trails of Mt Isarog and the whole 100KM is a silent witness to the camaraderie that I was able to develop with you. To Jeff and family: Thank you for the very warm accomodation. Please hug your Nanay for me! FR: Salamat! And to the rest of the AMCI peeps who supported us, Thank you! To Donnie and Erell, Thank you!

12. To my soul sister, the one and only diva, Melanie: What can I say? Thank you, Sis!

13. To Baldrunner: Thank you so much, Sir! you will always be my inspiration  🙂 Thank you for planting the seed of ultramarathon in my heart.

14. To Marky: Thanks much! I really appreciate your support. Sorry if I wasn’t able to take your calls… basta, brother salamat!

15: To Lolo Earl: waaaaaaahhhhhhh!!! so sorry, i kinda forgot — Thank you so much for the calves sleeves! naglakad ka pa ng bonggang bongga para maibigay yun sa akin 🙂 Salamat talaga! ang laking tulong, lolo 🙂

Natatangi ka, lolo! mwaaaaaahhhhhh

16. To everyone who one way or another sent me their well-wishes: Thank you! Not mentioning your names doesn’t mean that your thoughts are not recognized. Your kindness will always be remembered, dear friends!

17. To my boys, Lorenz and Micah: I love you, kiddos! I run not because I want to get away from you when I train. I run because it makes me a better person and a better Mommy.

I am not perfect, but I will love you forever...

This one’s for you, Dear God — for all the strength and for giving me the will-power to finish all my crazy races. I give back all the glory to you!

******

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO ME!

For you…

19 April, 2012

Dear soon to be step-mom,

Pardon me for that… but as we haven’t met, I really don’t know how to call you. Forgive me too for barging into you like this. I just felt that this is my best chance to convey to you what I really feel at this point in time.

On the outset, please know that I wish you all the best in your upcoming wedding. Congratulations!

Also, I want you to know that I genuinely have no hatred toward you or whatsoever despite what Jonathan might have told you about me. I am not a BITCH and surely not a bad mother; because if I am a bad person, my children will not have an ounce of love toward their father. I taught them to love and respect their dad and if there is one thing that I can really be proud of even if Jonathan will disagree is that I NEVER EVER SAID ANYTHING BAD AGAINST HIM to Lorenz and Micah. It wasn’t easy I tell you but it’s the only thing I know that would allow my children to have a good relationship with him.

Yes, I have issues with Jonathan, I won’t ever deny that. If we did not have issues then we would not be where we are right now. Time and time again I tried to set aside my personal feelings for the sake of my children. I also don’t know what he told you about our history together. Let me just tell you that he cheated on me twice before he finally left us when Micah is eight months old. In the annulment papers that he filed, he also specifically put there that I was already pregnant when he married me, making it appear that it was the reason we got married. Of course I can go on and on and on… but of course that’s just me.

On Saturday, he fetched the boys because they will be spending the next two weeks with him in General Santos (that’s what he said). He specifically told us while packing their stuff that they need to bring dark colored pants because they will be part of the entourage of the wedding of Jimboy, the brother of his sister-in-law.

Very early on Sunday, I received this text from him…

“Thank you for the shirts. I don’t know how to say it to you because i really don’t know if need mo pang malaman. But just to show some respect, it’s me who is getting wed and the two boys has a part in it. Civil wed of course. Just a family affair that’s why Kuya Tads family will be there and my uncle and aunt from leyte. Hope you understand. Don’t worry about the kids, they are yours of course. Nobody can take them away from you. I just want them to be there. I’ll explain it to them and I hope you can also help.”

If you are in my position, how do you react to this? I have long shielded the boys from the pain of having a broken family and now this. How will my kids take it? Five days before the wedding… How on earth will this affect my children emotionally and psychologically?

Initially, I said that I really don’t have anything to say about it… but when it finally dawned on me I realized the gravity of the offense. This is an event that will affect my children for the rest of their lives. Don’t I have the right to at least be told earlier so I could have prepared them for it?

Yes, I fought hard with Jonathan about this. I said things… he said things… it was ugly and it eventually made the situation worst. All my pent up emotions for all those times that he disregarded my feelings when it comes to my children erupted like volcano. I am not sorry about it though. I actually felt better after the fight. It was liberating to say the least.

It would have been best if we explained together to the kids as one parental unit. I wanted to explain to them that they are gaining another family member in you and that you are not taking my place. I would have loved to tell them that even if daddy is going to get married he is not abandoning them and that Mom and Dad will always be there for them no matter what happens and that we love them very much. Jonathan said na ako lang ang nag iisip ng kung ano ano at wala lang naman din sa mga bata. They may not fully understand this now but when they look back they will appreciate the fact that we were honest with them and we both tried to involve them in the decision.

I know you don’t have the intention to disregard my feelings or my boys. I know that before you even thought of marrying Jonathan you already know that they will be part of the package and whether you like it or not I will also be part of that VERY heavy package.

By the way, I was told a Psychometrician has been consulted on how to explain it to the boys… did he/she said to shut out the mother when you explain it to them; that you should tell them few days before the wedding? or did he/she said that this will not have an effect on them? Just asking… I’d like to meet that one. I might just be able to get a nice advice on how to act properly.

Writing this letter is also another struggle for me, but then I just have to let it out. I am brutally honest sometimes you know.

It is also my hope that someday, when you make decisions that will somehow affect my children, consider involving me, it might just make life easier for all of us.

I am not waging war… I’m not made for that. This is just one mother trying to assert her rights.

Thank you and may you have a wonderful day…

V/R,

 

Teresa

The quest for the buckle starts now

The BDM 160 was conducted last January 28. I decided to join that race at around 4 p.m. of January 27 upon the prodding of Doc Art.

I decided to join to test how far I could go despite my lack of training. So on that same day, I hurriedly left my office, brought my netbook and tried to finish my compliances along the way.

I really don’t know what I was thinking… but there I was running in my jogging pants! I never ran in my jogging pants since I started running in 2009. I was also using a pair of Burlington socks hahahaha but mind you those socks brought me to km 74 without blisters!

Jet tried to dissuade me from joining; enumerating all the reasons why I should not even think about it. Some guy is also telling me that I am crazy. Oh well! I have made up my mind. No turning back now.

It was a steady run from Km 00. No pressure really. I was just having fun. It felt good being around ultra-runners again. The road just felt right… I felt at home.

I really can’t remember many details about that run except that at some point the ambulance stayed behind me and wouldn’t leave me alone even if I pleaded with them to please stay far back as I am not comfortable having them so close. The truth is, I was the last runner and they have a very specific instruction from the RD not to leave the last runner.

That is another first for me. I was never the last runner since 2009…

I have been running for about 7 or 8 hours when I heard from Tin… she was surprised! I laughed so hard when I received Iah’s text. It was so Iah! But you see, they are supportive and even promised to come the next day to see me at the finish line…

I initially told Jet who became my support crew that I am quitting at around Km 60ish but he told me to think about it first… it took me another eight kilometers before I decided to stop.

I didn’t have any other reason why I decided to DNF. It was just too dark and I was scared. I also don’t want to put too much burden on my support crew since Rod is 5 kilometers ahead of me already. They have to come back for me and that made me very uncomfortable.

After running for 12 hours, I stood at Km marker 74, sent a message to the RD that I am quitting and waited for my support crew to pick me up.

No hard feeling just lessons learned. It was also about that time when I decided that I am running the fourth edition of the BDM 102 come March 3-4. That one I will finish come hell or high water.

I will bring this home next year…

Maraming maraming salamat, Team Boring!

I am beautiful…

I was deep in thought when I saw this passage in the little devotional calendar on my table — FEEL THAT YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL.

There are so many times in the past when I felt like crap, felt like the ugliest person there is in the whole wide world, and more often than not I would wallow in self-pity and asked God why on earth he made me this way.

Is physical attributes the ultimate manifestation of beauty?

While growing up, I was made to believe that I am not beautiful because I am dark. I avoided dark colored clothes like the plague because people would tell me “ay ano ka ba, ang itim mo na nga naka ganyan ka pa ng kulay.”

In this country where the majority of people are “brown” (a US President once called the Filipinos his “little brown brothers”) it is hard to fathom where our penchant for whitening products came from. Visit any supermarket and drugstore in the country and you will see a wide array of these products, promising a white glowing skin in just seven days; saying that you’ll be prettier and more attractive if you have a fairer skin.

In the heart of a teenager, the only way to have admirers or suitors is to become fairer. I made that my mission in life till kingdom come. Believe me I tried all the whitening products you can imagine until I realized the futility of my efforts when after using those products for years my skin color did not change dramatically and no suitors came to profess their undying love and devotion.

Many say that BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER.

How will I ever say I am beautiful when I myself don’t believe in what I am saying? I finally became comfortable in my color and accepted my physical attributes after a long hard look with what I really have as a person. Physical attribute is important alright, but it is not what defines me.

Honestly, the complements I got on how beautiful my skin is  from several US military counterparts when I was a 2nd Lieutenant serving somewhere in Palayan City in 2000 made the big difference.  This was complemented by my recent sojourn to the US last year.  So why bother being “white” or fair when so many are dying to have my color? Remember, the Filipinas who won beauty titles in international beauty pageants are the “kayumanggi”.

I also remind myself every once in a while that no matter how other people describe me; I should just take it as a complement and never let it affect me. After all, everybody is entitled to their own wrong opinion.

I also laughed so hard when I watched this conversation between Vice Ganda and Lucy Torres:

Lucy Torres: Lahat naman tayo maganda, wala namang ginawa ang Panginoon na pangit.

Vice Ganda: Eh sinong gumawa sa akin?

See? We sometimes love to make fun of ourselves and use our “itsura” as our way to make people laugh. It even became a source of income for others.

So, what am I trying to say now?

I don’t know. I am just trying to enhance my writing skills 🙂

Where do I begin?

In January of this year, I promised that I am going to write regularly. I was supposed to transform this blog into an online journal and I will be writing just about anything. It was actually an excuse since I really can’t write about my races or running as I have temporarily locked my running shoes somewhere.

Anyhow, it’s April and there’s nothing new in this lowly page. I have all the materials in my head but for whatever reason I never got to the writing part.

Where do I really start from here?

I made a running come back without training in January via the BDM 160… I did not finish that one. I did not feel bad as I really didn’t have plans of doing it.

On a whim, I registered for the BDM 102 and even did it for a cause. It was a DISASTER. This status on my Facebook account says it all:

“When I made the cut-off last year for the 3rd edition of the BDM 102, I promised that I will not do it again. What was I thinking when a month before the event I texted the RD that I am going to register? I. DON’T. KNOW. I ran, jogged, shuffled, walked, PRAYED. Do I regret not making the cut-off? NO. I just realized that TRAINING is the key… No justifications. I may have all the DETERMINATION, ATTITUDE and a heart full of FAITH; if I don’t train, then say GOODBYE to finishing a race within the cut-off and without PAIN 🙂 I will never CHALLENGE ANY RACE AGAIN. Magkikita pa tayo ulit, Bataan…”

My life has been chaotic since I came back from the United States five months ago. I changed my family name, went back to school, reported to a new unit, reconnected with my children…

I plunged into many things the past five months without a concrete plan. I did everything haphazardly… I am not in my best element. I was just trying to get by. I procrastinated to the hilt. There came a time when I thought that my name is slowly becoming synonymous to procrastination.

The Holy Week somehow gave me an excuse to look back and assess what I have been doing since I came back. I carefully jotted down some notes and tried to think hard on how can I bounce back.

Today is April 9.

Will see what will happen next…

Love a child and be blessed

“Mother Teresa of Calcutta once said, “May we never forget that in the service to the poor, we are offered a magnificent opportunity to do something beautiful for God.”

I am turning a year older in a couple of weeks. As I celebrate and give thanks to the Lord for all the blessings that He bestowed on me and my family, I would like to give back and embrace those who need love the most.

On March 3-4 2012, I will again thread the road that the 78,000 prisoners walked during the Bataan Death March in 1942. I will run the 102 kilometer route for the benefit of the “Tahanan ng Pagmamahal Children’s Home”.

As I carry out this noble endeavor, I would like to ask you, my dear friends, to join me. Please find it in your hearts to voluntarily pledge a certain amount for every kilometer that I will surpass for this project.

Through this, we can become instruments of goodness to the children who all deserve to be loved and cared for. Let us keep the flame of hope alive for them. Many thanks in advance!

Below is a brief profile of the “Tahanan ng Pagmamahal Children’s Home” for your interest. You can also visit their website at http://tahananpagmamahal.multiply.com/.

A HOME FOR THE LOVABLE AND LOVING ANGELS

“Tahanan ng Pagmamahal Children’s Home” is one of the ministries for the poorest of the poor under the Light of Jesus Community of Brother Bo Sanchez.

Since its organization in 2006, it has been a sanctuary for orphaned, abused, and abandoned children from 3-15 years old. It provides them with daily sustenance, safe and secured shelter, medical and dental care, formal and informal education, spiritual and values formation, recreational and leisure activities, and community and family life atmosphere. Above all, they give them hope and love.

The Tahanan is completely dependent on God’s providence for its daily operation, and with the growing number of children under their care, the orphanage is planning to build a larger house this year.

Thus, all help in any form are most welcome and highly appreciated.

“Tahanan – a home; a sanctuary; a tender spot in God’s heart for wounded, orphaned, abused, abandoned children; a home where love begets love.”

For your donation/ pledges, please refer to the bank accounts listed:
• BDO 4301-91022
• BPI 2670-0006-32
Account name: Tahanan ng Pagmamahal Children’s Home

You can also do more than sharing monetary and goods. Please love a child today! Be a Tahanan Partner!

For inquiries, you may contact the following:

Myrna Ortega: 0917-803-9139                            Rey Ortega:  0922-859-7035

myrna.ortega@gmail.com                                      reylindo.ortega@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

BDM 102 : Define ATTITUDE… Part 2

Tin and I as the banner girls last year...

                  It was a steady first fifty kilometers. Our goal is to be at the Km50 in about seven hours or so. It was dark and nippy. Mark, Jerry, and I stayed together. We took turns in leading the way… sometimes encouraging other runners to join us especially on the really dark parts. Jerry is a very good timer and pacer; very disciplined. I really have to give it to him. Mark and I really just followed his lead. I really enjoyed the whole stretch despite early signs of knee pain. I took my pain reliever and something for the tummy at Km 10. I also had some dysmenorrheal symptoms. Of all times, why am I having all this kinds of discomforts now? 

                It became apparent at Km 35 that we will be able to reach Km50 right on target. I started feeling better from then on but it was getting hot. It was about that time that the idea of doing a Paula Radcliffe crossed my mind. Since it’s really dark, I guess no one would even dare pore over me in that attire. So without so much fanfare, I went like this from Km41 to Km 50.

                 I was walking ahead of Jerry and Mark at around Km 45 when I heard a runner trying to make small talk. I can’t remember what we talked about but I clearly remember part of what he said… “sa style mong yan malalaspag ka”. I just looked at him and told him “ok lang po ako. ang balak lang po namin ay makarating sa Km 50 in seven hours or more”. I stopped and retraced my steps back to where Jerry and Mark was. Jerry told me “ok ka lang maglakad, huwag mo kaming antayin para hindi sayang oras mo”. I did not say anything. I just stayed with them from then on. I don’t know why but I kinda felt the sarcasm in that man’s voice. It’s my first time to see him in any race. He was one those guys wearing the singlet that looked like a camouflage. Oh well, that’s your opinion. I’ll do my thing the best way I know how, wether you approve of it or not.

                 We reached Km50 at around 060530H. We decided to stay a bit to change, eat and do some personal necessities. I was still feeling good. I reinforced the plasters of my feet, changed into new pair of socks and shoes then donned a singlet. It’s already daybreak so there is no way I would run in my Paula Radcliffe attire hehehe

                 I left ahead of Jerry and Mark because I am already getting cold. I still ran with the boys until Km53. I told them to just go ahead and I will try to catch up with them if I still can.

                 Words are not enough to thank the two of you for that first leg. Blood compact it is, brothers! I will gladly do it again in our next races.

Km 53-60

                I was generally on my own after this. With the rate I am going, I am sure that I have enough time to cover the remaining distance even if I walk a little longer. I was trying to conserve my energy. Being alone is also a welcome respite. I had time to just reflect and pray. There is not much that I can remember during this time. It was just run-walk. No issues or whatever. I was still able to say hello to some very kind runners and supporters.

Km60-70

                 The pain in my left knee became evident at Km63. It was so painful I had to stop several times before I saw my support crew. I was on the verge of crying when I remember this converasation I had with a friend :

                 Tere: I am getting really nervous. Friend: It’s just 102. Don’t die.   Tere: I am not going to die, but is it ok if I emote? Friend: No. That is worst than dying. With that statement ringing in my ears, i suppressed the urge to cry.

                 I started complaining to my support crew that my knee is giving up on me. I then started to request for some massage and if they can somehow stay close by.

                 I saw Mark at the vicinity of Km64… We are both ready to give up. We tried to encourage each other but in my heart I felt that if we stay together we might just decide to finally throw in the towel and declare a DNF.

                  I wasn’t able to contain my emotions when i saw JJ and Joen on my next stop. I really didn’t expect to see them there. You can see from the way i hugged him that I don’t want to let go anymore. At that point it was all  downhill… I wanted to stop.

Thanks much, JJ! It meant a lot to me...

                  I was in so much pain. I was whining; I didn’t even want to take anything. My crew is now trying to encourage me… but at that time I didn’t even want to listen to it. It was all garbage to me. I left them without saying a word then i cried. I was so desolate.  Every part of my body is screaming of pain. Not even the thought of finishing the race lifted my spirit. I felt I was dying…

Km70-85

                I reached Km70 before 0800H. It means I have eight hours to cover the last 32Kms. I was trying to convince myself that I can do it even if I walk all the way to the finish line. But that was easier said than done… The following photos will tell you how I struggled.

                    I can’t remember how many times I asked my support crew how far I am from the finish line. What’s funny was that they told me several times not to mind the kilometer markers since it was not accurate. They always say its 74, 76, 78 instead of 72, 74, 76. I just nod when they tell me that. But at the back of my mind I was like “sino niloko nyo?”

                   I was painfully walking when another runner caught up with me. He asked where my companions are referring to Jerry and Mark. I tried to mumble a reply. He asked my name and he told me his.. The next thing I knew he was extending his hand for a handshake… I took it without saying a word. In normal circumstances I would have made a witty remark, compliment him with that formality but I was not under normal circumstances.   

                   It was in Km74 when I began to throw tantrums at Maridol since she was forcing me to eat and drink. I know she has all the good intentions and it was what I really need, but I just can’t tolerate it anymore. I so wanted to tell her “eh di ikaw nalang kumain”, but I don’t even have the strength to speak. My toes are also beginning to irritate me. They are throbbing like hell. The thought of dying toenails should be the least of my worries, but when you are so tired and weary, little nuisance like that are magnified. Titanium Runner was even trying to make fun out of it by telling me to just offer mass for those little toes.

                   I promised my friends that I will make them proud of me in this race. I know they will understand if i decide to do a DNF, but I don’t think I can live with it. I tried to compose myself at Km 76; though I was still not in my element I tried to imagine wonderful things rather than focus on all my pains. My mind went as far as you know where…

                 Bruno Mars provided relief beginning Km78. I was now able to laugh at Grenade and feel the beat of Marry You.

                  I started running slowly, stopping after every song. It went for a while until it became two songs then three then four… I am getting my groove back. Let’s go back to road, baby!

BDM 102 : Define ATTITUDE… Part 1

                 This was my FB status the day after the BDM – how do you summarize 102km 17:24:12 when at this point I can’t even bend my left knee, my newly resurrected big toenails are dead again, and “Ula” is all I see in the mirror? HAPPINESS – VIRGIN NO MORE!!! Good Morning, Friends! Thank you very much for the messages. I feel so loved!

                The four things that made me oh so happy when i reached KM 102. The flowers is totally unexpected from Marga. I promised not to cry, but the bouquet got me. It is only the 4th that I ever received in my 34 years of existence. The crown is from Master Cindy 🙂

                Allow me to brag, people… I earned it. Yes; I am a certified BDM finisher. I repeat… I am a certified BDM finisher!  I got a huge medal, a really nice trophy and a finisher’s T-shirt. This feat will now be included if somebody asks me to say something about myself. It will go this way… “On a personal note, I consider being a mom and finishing the BDM 102Km race my greatest accomplishments”. 

                 My bib number…

                   When I was still a P2Lt undergoing training somewhere in Rizal, I am always reprimanded due to my stubbornness. My classmates will always tell me that I don’t have the attitude since I collapse in every PFT and I really had a hard time coping up with the physical demands of the course. Yes, I was never athletic. I can talk really fast but I really can’t run!

                  I started running in 2007 because of too much personal stress. My life was in shambles and I can’t pay the bills. I found solace in running… it became my own version of stresstab. Globe Run for Home 2009 jump-started my official foray to weekly fun runs at the Bonifacio High Street. Those 5Ks became 10… 21… 42… 50… 70 then came the 102.

                 I never thought I would go this far… the BDM 102 is by far the craziest thing I’ve ever done. Crazy as it may, it became one of my greatest accomplishments. 

                   I seriously considered joining this event as early as first quarter of 2010. I had it all mapped out. A slight diversion was made on the last quarter, but I bounced back early this year to concentrate on my preparation. There were set-backs, but it only strengthened my resolve to include the BDM 102 in my running resume.

                   One week before the BDM, I visited the Ortho to finally have my left knee checked. I was cleared to join but I have to rest. I was put on Celebrex TID for three days.

                  Maridol, my Chief support crew and I met on Thursday to finalize my supplies and some other stuff that needs to be addressed. We were laughing so hard trying to compose her FB status in all the critical KM markers. I asked her to make sure that I am pretty when I reached the finish line; for the first time in my entire running career, I wanted to look good. Unfortunately, my finish line photos says otherwise hahahaha

i brought my house 🙂

some of my supplies... i am having a picnic!

                  After giving a short briefing to my support crew compose of Maridol, my dear friend Jaq and Toto, our driver; we left Camp Aguinaldo at 0900H on Saturday for San Fernando, Pampanga. The plan is to stay at Maridol’s place in Sindalan then proceed to Bataan at around 1800.

                 We met a friend at SM San Fernando and had lunch at a really nice joint thereat. We did last minute shopping for more supplies then it was rest. I wasn’t able to sleep, but I rested and tried to visualize all the things that I will do in a few hours. I don’t have any plans of a podium finish; I really don’t have a chance on that one. All I wanted is to finish within the cut-off time of 18hours. A friend also just asked me not to die hehehe

062015H March 2011

                We are a 30Kms to Mariveles when it started to rain. I got nervous… it will be cold. I am not prepared to run in that kind of weather. I silently prayed for the rain to stop. I received text messages from Iah and Helen just about this time talking about the weather. They are also both wishing me good luck. Thanks, guys! I truly appreciate it. It was also about this time when I remembered to ask Maridol about the reflectorize bib number for the vehicle… she’s more nervous than I am; she forgot to bring it 🙂

062045H March 2011

                We arrived at KM 00 in Mariveles, Bataan. The place is chaotic! I was trying to contain my anxiety and tried to relax. I visited with friends and did what I know best… talk! I talked to just about anybody who wants to talk to me hehehe

062015H March 2011

                After checking in and picture taking we settled to wait for the short program. I will be pacing with my Team BR-P friends Mark and Jerry. Our plan is to maintain a 7 to 7:30 pace. I am glad I have somebody to run with in the dark. It will be a long day ahead so I really need company to see me through the whole stretch of 102. We would have wanted to have Tin with us, but she’s fast and the three of us wouldn’t want to slow her down. We keep on talking about you, sis… there was one time when it was so dark, Jerry said “sana may kasabay si tin ngayon… ang dilim”.

my team BR-P

                          It was 2200H in my watch when the short program started. The prayer was led by Tess Geddes. It was followed by the singing of the national anthems of Japan led by Alfred, USA led by Camilla, and the Philippines led by the RD himself.

                A class picture was taken before we finally went to the starting line…

class picture

062210H March 2011                               One hundred forty-two crazy runners took off from KM OO in Mariveles, Bataan. We were one big happy group! It was a wonderful sight; headlamps blinking, the road looks so cheerful with all those reflectorize blings and apparels of runners.

                     My support crew is already at KM 7 at this point in time. I will see them in a while. In the meantime, I am taking it easy with Jerry and Mark. The first 7KM is rolling so we decided to walk all the hills.

Mark, Jerry and I

i love my team CB singlet!

                  The first 7Km is uneventful… it was cool. The three of us were running with the group of Sir Willy Yao. Bruno Mars is singing in the background as we were negotiating those steep hills.

                   Watch out for Part 2…

Condura Skyway Marathon: Number 2 for 2011

                 This race could very well be my resurgence from oblivion… my revenge from all the negativities and other whatsoever’s of 2010; it will also be a reunion with the other members of Team BR-P whom I haven’t seen for months!

                 Initially, Condura is not on the list of races that I am supposed to do this year; I wasn’t even supposed to do any race this year. So when I decided that I want to do it, the registration was already close. I had to enlist the help of a friend who personally know Sir Patrick Concepcion if I can still get through. Luckily, they opened additional slots – I got in, but I had to pay more than the regular registration fee and my medal and finisher’s T-shirt will be delivered to me two months after the race. 

this came in the mail a week before the race with a hershey's bar 🙂

                  I am pretty sure that I am more prepared for this race than when I did the CCM last month. Deep inside I want to race it and establish a new PR. Unfortunately, I got sick three days into the race. I took meds alright, but it wasn’t enough to pull me through.

                   I went to bed early and made sure that all my gears are ready for the next day. I wasn’t worried about waking up on time since somebody promised to make sure that I’ll be there before the gun start. Well, I had the most efficient alarm clock. Thanks so much!

                  I arrived quite early at BHS. I had ample time to visit with friends. It was a happy occasion! It was so good to see some friends from takbo.ph, the UPLB Mountaineers led by Coach Jan, Team CB, the TFC boys, and of course the Team BR-P! It was a blast; I haven’t seen these guys for ages!

                   I was anxious; apart from the fact that I am not really feeling well, I felt the pain in my knees before I even went to the starting shoot. I usually take my pain reliever somewhere between Km 10 to 15 but at that particular instance I took it before the race. Oh dear! This is not a good sign…

                There were lots of ribbing on our way to the starting line. It actually helped in my growing anxiety. There were so many runners! I was guessing that there might be more than a thousand of us. The race started at exactly 0330H with fireworks and a simple countdown.

                    My friends took off at the sound of the gun… I had to take my time. In as much as I wanted to race it, I had to play safe. I have a marathon to run; the best thing I can do given my current circumstances is to just enjoy and to make sure that I finish.

                    Surprisingly, the route was well-lighted. Generators are positioned in critical places. The hydration tables are strategically located; the problem is I don’t drink 100plus so I had to save the Gatorade in my race belt in the latter part of the race. I had 5 gels, three of which are the Roctanes that Kenneth gave me after the CCM. I also brought some chocolate bites and some Hydrite. I was hoping that these provisions will bring me safely to the finish line.

                   I leave in Laguna so I traverse the Skyway almost every day… I also know that the Sucat Exit is already open since 15 December 2010, so I assumed that it will be part of the route. The foot of the Skyway started at KM 11, I was then running for more than an hour. I was still good although my breathing was a bit labored due to my lingering cough and colds. We were approaching Magallanes Exit when the 21Km runners came into view. There were so many of them! I strained my neck looking for Helen but I didn’t see her. I was happy to see Maridol and Gail cruising steadily.

                  As usual I was on my own until Gab caught up with me at Km18. He paced with me until Km21 where I sprinted to a new PR at 2:13. Thanks so much, Gab! I was still 3Kms away from the turn-around when I saw my friends already coming back. Wow! They were fast… I can already smell PR for most of them.

                   I was having a good time until I felt the dreadful chafe on my armpit at Km 27. It definitely slowed me down. Ang hapdi! I am just so glad that there was a petroleum jelly in the ambulance! I was literally saved by that unassuming lubricant! I saw Rodel at Km30 or more. He was my motivator and timer until we reached the support station of the Takbo.ph.  

skyway robbery! i miss photovendo...

thanks much team boring!

all smiles approaching the support station of my takbo.ph family

thanks so much, takbo peeps! you are the best!

                      I thought I will be able to break my PR from here… but the Berlin wall came uninvited at KM 38… my split time showed that I was at KM 38.2 at 4:12:37; I arrived at Km40 at 4:31:41… Can you believe that?! Atty Cyrus saw me a few minutes after that. A much needed pacer during the most critical moment. Thanks so much, Cy! It means a lot to me…

                    You think I should have just closed my eyes and run like somebody is running after me? No, I didn’t… I increased the pace alright; but I took walk breaks! I took three in the span of that last 2Kms. Oh well…                   

all of them broke their PRs... Congrats! i missed my PR by 8minutes...

                  Still happy with the results though; no justifications or excuses…

medal number 4! thank you, junrox for the picture

cool isn't it?

                   We had breakfast at Conti’s after the race. It was a classic TFC and BR-P moment. Lots of laughter and the likes. It was doubly special because it was the birthday of Iron Mari.

Happy Birthday, Mari!

                   The dreaded flu virus unleashed it’s powers the next day. Really now, a week before the BDM test run and the Captain is on sick Bay…

                    Goodluck to me!

Going Down Memory Lane: Condura 2010

               Since I wasn’t able to write anything about my Condura experience last year, allow me to somehow go down memory lane and recount some of  the things that I can still remember about it.

             1. It was my very first half-mary and I came in wearing my orange takbo.ph singlet. I was generally orange during the race 🙂

me with THE Hotlegs Julie 🙂

                   2. It was my first time to run on the skyway and it was the first race of my then over-rated lunar glide.

 

time of the Glides

more Glides

                    * The Glides were relegated to short distances when Bubbles proved to be more effective in long distance races. Both shoes are now with a good friend who was just happy to adopt them when i realized that I have already taken full advantage of their mileage and services.

                   3. When i finished the race, i positioned myself at the finishing shoot waiting for all my friends who did their first marathon. I was their first hug upon reaching the finish line…

with my partner, Tin

Joyce

Carly

Bryan

                   * I can’t find the other pictures… but that is basically what I did. I guess i also had one with earl, argo, and the others 🙂 

                   That race started my love affair with longer distances. Who would have thought that this year’s Condura Skyway Marathon will be my fourth marathon after signing up for my first 5K during the Globe Run for Home in July 2009.

More Pictures:

Vicky, Doc T, Tere, Junar

Tere and Tin

Friends

The family

Condura Skyway Marathon 2011, coming up!