Century Ride Ipoh 2012

After the wedding, I drove down to Ipoh from Penang at about 12am. After checking in and setting up my bike, it was already close to 2am. The race starts at 7am and I’m supposed to be at the check point to meet Daniel (a triathlete from Penang) who collected my race pack for me at around 6am. But I was still asleep at 6am till he called me. I was damn exhausted from the 3 week business trip to Jakarta and all.

Met him around 6.30am, collected the timing sticker and he asked me, “So sub 5 huh?”. I just smiled and say, “Cannot lah – 3 weeks didn’t train already”. Then after a small chat, off I went to the starting point. The crowd was pretty huge, I think they estimate around 1,000+ cyclist. Ate my powerbar and waited for the race to start. It was my first time doing 160k, and I really don’t know what to expect. I’ve done 100k before, and found it do-able.

At the start

Countdown begun and we were all release, a little messy at the beginning due to the bottleneck starting point but it cleared off as soon as we hit the major roads. I didn’t wanna push so hard because I know I wouldn’t be able to last at 30km/h for the entire ride. My goal was to be as close as 5 hours. Just at the start, one by one cyclist started zooming by me. In my mind I was like, “Seriously? Aneh keng?”. I stayed discipline and I continue at my pace until I was at the wheels of a peloton, I lost my discipline and started cruising at their speed which is about 40km/h.

Less than 30 minutes into our ride, riders from the front shouted, “Slow! Slow!” and everyone in the peloton also shouted, “Slow!Slow” because there was an accident in front. Saw a few cyclists sitting at the road side with the bike pretty badly damage. With the  rise of carbon frame and wheelset, getting involve in a crash is never a good thing. Few Ks later, same thing happen and I thought to myself, this will never happen to me.

I was sitting comfortably in the peloton and was enjoying my ride BUT suddenly a cyclist in our group fell in the front, 2-3 bikes away from me and I was like sh*t, gai liao. I saw them lying on the road when I quickly press the breaks as hard as I could but I still skidded due to our high speed. I hit one of the bike that is lying on the ground and toppled on top of another guy.  I quickly get up, pick up my bike and water bottle, checked my wound to see if there is any serious cuts, fortunately just minor scratches. Checked my bike, and it don’t look good, my chain came off but thankfully it can be fixed. When I continue cycling, I saw the front wheel was crooked, that is not a good thing. I didn’t know how bad it was but I know I wanna finish this race no matter what. I prayed to God to keep me safe and help me finish the race in one piece.

After this incident, I got a little scared drafting and riding in a peloton because you may get involved in an accident even though you are careful and all. So I rode alone most of the remaining 110k. It wasn’t easy but it was the safest. Every time we go down a small slope, I would picture my front wheel giving way and me crashing again. But that didn’t happen; it was just my imagination going wild.

Pic courtesy of cycling Malaysia

I stopped for all the water station, to rest a little, clean my wound, freshen up, refill and to get some bananas. All these are essential in a long ride like this. The weather was pretty good, it was cooling most part of the ride. When I got to one of the water station, there was a man holding those sponge soaked in ice water and he asked me whether I wanted one. I said yes, and I was expecting him to pass the sponge to me so I could cool off myself but he came to me a ‘showered’ me from my head to my body and all over me. I was like ‘uhhhhhhh…wah wah wah…shiok lo!’. It was unexpected but it was a good move, makes you more alert and awake.

I then continued my journey. At about 130k mark, I could feel my legs giving in. Muscle cramp, an athlete’s worst enemy. Why I say so. I can still go on if I have cuts and bruises but muscles cramp, no way, you can move your legs at all. I stopped at the side of the road and stood there for a while because I can’t get down from my bike and stretch. In that moment, I feared I won’t be able to finish it because it’s one of the worst cramps I’ve ever had, worst when it involves both legs. I continue sipping 100plus and prayed in my heart. Once the stiffness went off, I came down and stretch. Cyclist by cyclist zoomed pass me and I felt ‘humiliated’.  I always wanna give my best or to try to be competitive but this is not one of those days. I was already defeated mentally. After 5 minutes or so, I got back up to the saddle and continued pedaling.

Even by saying that, I tried to dig deep to motivate myself or to get myself going for the 30km. A light bulb popped out, since I can’t exert that much energy to minimize the risk of muscle cramp again, I was reminded about a training method from the book that I’ve been reading for the past weeks, ‘The Big Book Of Endurance Training and Racing’. It is mentioned we should all train within our Maximum Aerobic Heart Rate and improve aerobic speed over time; mine was around 150 BPM so I tried to stay within my range. To stay within 150BPM, my speed was about 20kmh to 25kmh but it felt so much easier and I feel I was more in control of my body and muscles. I was very focus on my target heart rate and soon, I was in the zone.

Me and the medal at the finishing point

After our last water station, I looked at my meter 155km, 5 more km to go. Yay~! But after reaching 160km, I don’t see any sign for the finishing line and we were still on the main road of Ipoh. It was a dangerous road as we were sharing road with other motor vehicles. Even tho there is a traffic controller but car still drive according to the traffic light and it almost hit me. Tsk tsk tsk. I cross the finishing line at about 168km on my meter and slightly under 6 hours. Definitely my second hardest day of my life and I have to thank God for sustaining me and keeping me safe again.

Very nice pewter medal

Next up, Merdeka Cup and 100K (10k run + 90k ride)

First Workout With FT80

I think I need a name for my watch. I have Ima, I have Kim, I have Oprah, now what? Polar? Sounds boring...if you have any suggestions please let me know. The function is pretty cool...you can upload all your result through this data transmitter thingy via usb. very canggih....just put my watch on it, and the data will transfer by itself.

As you can see below...my result of last night's ride up to Balik Pulau. I burned 1042 calories and you can see the 3 different zones. I was in Zone 3 when I started climbing the hills. One thing I noticed is my heart rate drops really fast when the workout is not intense. So, don't rest too much or else your workouts will be in vain.

This is my first ride to BP after my knee surgery. My time is definitely slowly than my usual but when I reach the BP town, my heart was really filled with joy. I can't thank Him enough for this moment I never thought I could achieve again. On top of that, I received a round of applause from the state development guys and girls who were there. I really felt motivated and strong. Now it's time to pick up my stamina and strength again.

[ima fell sick on the way up there. need to send her to the doctor]

Meeting & Training Night

I have to admit, I have not been very responsible and active with my roles lately, particularly with the Penang Floorball Association (PFA). I chatted with a friend last Tuesday and it made me realize how little I have been contributing to the Floorball scene. All I have been doing lately is to build and prepare myself. [Yea, pretty selfish I know =x] But what triggered all this? It's personal. haha.

We had a Kejohanan Floorball Sekolah Pulau Pinang (KFSPP) meeting last night and I am really glad to be able to sit with this 'dreamers'. We have a goal to achive by 2012 and I believe we have a great team of people that will make all this happen. 2012 ~ a significant year for me! =)

Went for a date with Ima to Teluk Bahang after that. The road along Gurney Plaza is getting more crowded, hectic and jam. It wasn't that bad months back. What's wrong!?

Distance: 42km
Time: 1:20
Max speed: 68.0km/h
Avg speed: 31.5km/h

When I got back home I was amazed with the Max Speed that I hit, 68km/h and I did that on a flat terrain. It's not a downhill thingy. Gonna break my time and speed in the future. I'm gonna increase my mileage to at least 70k per ride. Time to up the stake!

[Training builds the chemistry - Inner Circle]

Physical vs Emotional Pain

Again...last night's state physical training was torturous. Running alone was bad enough but I pushed the extra mile to bring Ima along. She loves watching me train. =) My loyal ever faithful supporter. She's getting a bit 'sick', should take her to the 'doctor' soon.

It was my first time at the Metropolitan Park, Relau. New environment and challenges are waiting ahead. Didn't know what to expect but if coach wants us there, he has his reasons. He gave a short briefing on the route and off we go. 30 minutes of slow/medium intensity running with steep slope and stairs (which hurts) and 5x short sprint all out.

After training and a free refill from Dawn, I quickly rushed back home and cycled Ima as fast as I could. I was looking forward to meeting you...but...

[Love has the ability to destroy or to build you + 34K bike + love is not my thing]

Headwind

Couldn't make it for state training last night, so I did another ride with Ima. Wanted to cycle the same route as per Monday (Bukit Gambir) but it looked like it was gonna rain. Didn't dare to take the risk.

The difference of riding in the evening and night is the wind. I get headwind through my ride and it tiring. I could even feel Ima swaying here and there. =x

'In aerodynamics, a headwind is a wind that blows against the direction of travel of an object. A headwind reduces the object's speed and increases the time required to reach its destination.'

Things that I've change with my Ima; I took out another bottle cage, so I'm only left with one which for sure is not sufficient for my rides, esp riding in hot afternoons/evenings. I've also adjusted my saddle, a little towards the front, giving me more cadence power in my stride. My playlist, less rock songs more house music. Giving me the extra boost. My mind, totally focus on beating my time in each ride. Find what motivates you? When you find 'it', you'd be more determine to the point physical torture becomes pleasure. Wow...sound like a sadist. =p

Along the way back via Jelutong expressway, there was a road block and I got stopped by a uniform officer.

Police: Stop..!
Me: Yes?
Police: Mana lampu depan you?
Me: Oh...belum beli but belakang ada lampu.
Police: Oh tak boleh tak boleh. This is for your own safety.
Me: Okay okay, I will buy. *laughs*
Police: Okay, jalan.

I guess I have to spend again. =x


[facing 'headwinds' in life now]

The Climb

Yesterday was my worst Balik Pulau climb ever! It was so bad that I took 4 breaks (Usually 1-2 at most). My lungs felt like bursting, my lower body muscles....totally 'beh ki', I was panting for air and I know I looked like sh*t. Uhhhhhhh...it's only a month without hill climbs and my body system has forgotten totally bout it. I guess training on flats does not help in climbs even if you increase your mileage.

Last night's state training was wicked! I really enjoyed the killers and those jumps. Killed many of us but this was the challenge that I need. During our killers, coach said that something that struck me, "Aren't you going to try at all?". It's so true, that we are the one that always limit ourselves. No matter what...keep trying. Try try try till you get what you want!

Arg...! My back. My legs. =.(

After bathing, I continued my movie "Hachi". It teaches me loyalty! If a dog can remain faithful and loyal to it's master even after he dies. How much more can I do the same to my love ones. I like the Akita. So cool!


[ I'm losing my mental strength =x ]

Back to the Track

After my freakin P6 exam, I'm glad to be back to training. A one week break kinda permits laziness to creep into my system. I have to kick them out! I haven't stepped into the gym for weeks I tell you. I just can't squeeze in so many things in a day. Hopefully tomorrow.

I wanted to do a double loop tonight to increase my mileage for the week but the whether don't look too good to me when I was going for the second round and I was afraid I might kill my phone again. Oh ya, I've gotten back my phone! Hurray! At least I have some company now.

Distance: 41km
Time: 1:16
Max speed: 53.1km/h
Avg speed: 32.4km/h

I am about 7 minutes off my target time.

And I bought another cycling shorts last week. When I first saw the shorts, I was like 'Wooooohhhhhh, so small, can fit meh?' You see for yourself. haha.

[vain pic =p like 'pak bah chang']

Last Sunday's massage was really simple and truthful. What I learned was whatever dream that God has planted in your heart. It would come to past because its from Him. Of course waiting is part of the process, it may take a day, a week, a month, a year, a decade...

What dream(s) do you have?

Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life
Proverbs

Kayuh Malam

Last night's ride was awesome, not sure whether its because of the glucose drink that I had or what. Maybe its because I found the optimum gear for me, it may be lower than the usual one I use, but my cadence speed was faster, hence keeping the speed up with less energy output.

I could almost maintain 35km/h throughout my journey, which was about an hour. From my research, Craig Alexander and other top athletes ride at an average speed of 38~40km/h for close to 5hours. Power nia!

I'm already getting bored with my route, I need something fresh. What I did was I went up Bukit Gambir and turn back after the downhill. It was a double small climb and turn back via Jelutong expressway. I'm starting to find cycling dangerous. haha!

Distance: 36.54km
Time: 1:09:27
Max speed: 51km/h

Phone still not okay, no music during training. Kinda bored without it, makes you think a lot. A lot things start rushing through my mind. Getting worried. =/

I'm down with an infected eye. Very irritating! =(

[Ima is a beauty, the more I look at her, the more I appreciate her]

Hot and Cold, Up and Down

After last weekend's hell week, I had to take Monday off. No form of exercise on that day. Just total recovery. I felt better the next day, so I decided to cycle up BP again. Didn't wanna cycle back home as I was not 100% fit. I feel I lack of proper nutrients.

The journey there is always a pain in my butt, it does not get easier but I know it makes me stronger. Trust me, it not easy.

Distance: 18.61km
Time: 52:54
Max speed:61.4km/h

Cruising 61.4km/r downhill is adrenaline rushing! Yeah! I only do that on straight road so don't worry.

Floorball training was at a medium intensity with a lot of basic drills. Sometimes we just need to get out feet back on the ground.

Did a 8k run the following day, legs still not fully recovered but time is running out. I have meetings and outing the following days, so this might be my last run before my half marathon. During lunch, my dad asked me, 'I thought last year you said you're not gonna participate in the bridge run anymore?' I just went, 'Hahaha.' It happens after every post race. The pain and torture after it and also the glory and satisfaction.

Distance: 8km
Time: 38:57
Average speed: 12.3km/h

I am down again. I hope my body can tahan until 22th Nov. After this I might treat it a good body massage.

Heard of Marathon Des Sables before? This is even more hardcore than ultra marathons. I just admire people who pushes the human limit. Insane courage!

My Phone Died of Hypothermia

On my way to PISA for state physical training, I was caught in a heavy rain half along Jelutong Expressway. Can't do much but just hope that my phone and my cyclemeter survives. I kept checking on the screen just to make sure it still works.

When I got there, most of the guys and girls were already there. LinKen came to me and told me that I inspired him to run from his house to PISA. Ha!ha! Its a mental thing I tell you. Good job bro!

Our Coach came and brief us on the rules and punishment (100 push ups for every offence) if we don't comply with the 'law'. So be begin...before heading there, I was inspired by a running article on a blog, ' How to Think Like the Pros'. So I thought to myself, why not trying those mental exercise. And it really works!

We did 5loops around PISA which was about 5.3 km and I clocked 18m 20s. Average speed of 11.2 km/h. It was more like an interval training with lots of sprints in between. It was tiring. Fuuuuuuuuh. My last 500 m was torturing, I had to follow my coach's pace on his bike and I could feel me running without oxygen in my lungs. He was pushing me to my limits which I enjoyed. =)

Then it was time to head home, clouds were looking really dark and heavy. Sam offered me and Ima a ride home but I thought the rain would delay for me. Haha! I was wrong about it and I gotta pay a heavy price. I continued cycling under the downpour till it got super super heavy that's when I decided to stop and turn into a coffee house along Jelutong Expressway. All eyes are on me. I don't know why.

Its too heavy to continue on, so its pitstop for me. I was feeling cold and hungry. I overheard a drunk uncle talking to come chinese high school girls about me.

uncle: aneh kuan a boyfren luan ai bo? ho liau ar e. (this type of bf you want or not? very good)
girls: mai la...dam dam aneh chao bi. (don't want la. wet wet. damn smelly)

I really stink that time. As I was wiping my phone, it just died. Can't on it even I got home. Its gone. Maybe its true, I can't live without you, maybe two is better than one. Why leave me at a time like this? =(

Some people say I run faster and longer than the rest because I'm a triathlete but that's not true. I believe everyone running last night can beat me easily. Its how much you want to improve and how strong your head is. Its all about Independent Culture.

[BP + 30K bike + 5.3K run]

G Club Teluk Bahang Ride

I've been a member in G Club for 13 weeks and 3 days. Came across this group when I was searching for cycling groups in Penang. They are a small group of friendly recreational cyclist who organises a once-a-month ride to Teluk Bhang from G Hotel and also other ad hoc eco rides.

FYI, they are the group who are proposing a bike lane for cyclist. I like it! Imagine having a lane all by yourself. Don't have to worry about stupid inconsiderate drivers.

Check our their page for further details and future plans.

Last Sunday I was invited my Turbosnail to joined them for their monthly ride and the best part of it was, there were 4 RELA riders escorting and clearing the roads for us. Super COOL I tell you.

Woke up early in the morning to prepare myself, manatau, I dropped one of my contact lenses and it just disappeared. Mum even helped me to find but its just GONE. Pek chek. I can only see with one eye and its dangerous to ride in this condition. Haha!

As I cycled to G.Hotel, I saw many cyclist warming up and getting ready around Gurney Drive. Many runners were also running around. It was like a sports city that morning.

Around 7.30am, the journey begins, I think we had about 40 cyclist in total. I kinda took the lead after reaching Rasa Sayang, not because I'm better than this experieced rider but because I gotta rush back home for Church. So I sped up towards Teluk Bahang round-about with a RELA motorist in front of me. I really felt like pro! It felt so so good. hahaha.

Covered 40K in 1hr 10minutes. It was my best ride ever.

PISA + BF

Last night was my first time swimming in the PISA aquatic center. RM3 bucks per entry but if you're a member, its only RM1. Coach Ed was already waiting for me in the main pool and the water was really cold. Urrrhhh, made me shiver.

I had an accident in the pool, I wacked a girl's head because I swim blindly. Started from lane 1 but I ended up in lane 4. That show's how bad my navigation is. That girl that I collided with quickly move to the closed lane pool. She swims really well.! Hehe.

Coach Ed was not happy with my left hand entry. I find my left hand a bit cacat, is like I can't coordinate it with my brains. Have to work on it. Doing the S-crawl with a relax motion helps in keeping the pace. I complained to him, 'Swimming is so so hard! Harder than 10K run many times.' But he encouraged me to keep pushing. I have to make him proud.

This morning I woke up at 5.55am, my goal was to cycle to Hard Rock Hotel (HR) and after the 3rd attempt I finally made it!!!! What a feeling =) Ouh ouh.

Total distance: 34.78km (18.37 + 16.41)
Time: 1 hour 10minutes
Average speed: 29.8 km/h
Max speed: 45.8km/h

Its nice riding early in the morning, no traffic, no cars, fresh cool air, no noise pollution and you have the road all to yourself. There is a slight climb to HR but not a steep climb. As much as possible I'd try to maintain in high gear, that is to strengthen my legs. Took me about 40 minutes to reach my destination. Ima did great, not notty like the last two times.

[Ima]

[Hard Rock Babeh]

I feel my 'swimmers' dying every time I cycle. =/

[swim + 35k bike]

Tire Problem Again

Attempt 2 to BF: Failed again
I was really pissed! I lost my cool! I lost my patience! I walked up and down the stairs not knowing what to do. All in my mind was I've to fixed Ima again. Arrrgggghhhhh!!!!kaboooooooooooom! I felt irritated because I feel helpless and useless. I have no technical knowledge on bike maintenance and it bothers me.

Who can help me?

Anyway...it was a good thing that I was not riding on the road because it rained heavily that night. I substitute my training with RPM and a got a free peanut sweet from my trainer who just came back from Hong Kong. She's one of my favourite. =) After sweating it out and cooling down, I just thank God for the mess up tire.

Without it, I would be soaking wet. Have to bring Ima to the doc again. Peace!

[fw + rpm]

Dual Training

5.5 hours of training and it hurts to the core. Neck pain, back hurts, legs feeling heavy and worst of all I was super duper hungry.

6.00pm - 7.10pm
25K bike going uphill is pure torture.

7.30pm - 9.45pm
Floorball training did a lot of basic pass. basics are very important.

10.00pm - 11.30pm
30k bike going back is double the torture. gotta stay positive! =)

11.45pm - 12.30am
Eat.Hentam.Wack.Zzz as I was walking out to get supper, I was just looking at the old hotel around my house. I wonder who uses it? I guess the hotel guest only rent the rooms on an hourly basis. SUDDENLY!!! I heard, 'Psssssttt psssttttt, lai lai.' I was invited by this Ah Gua to 'dine' with shim. Of course, I panic! Quickly cross to the other side of the road. Scary!

During Floorball training, I was asking around for food. And of course no one brought food cause they have Kim Kim in their mind. haha. Next time have to be more prepared.

Coach Ed encouraged the state players to sign up for the Penang bridge run this year. 21K and nothing less he added. This is something that I should thank him for. About this time around last year, he said the same thing to us and I took up the challenge. He said this is a mental battle and its not so much about the physical. Even though I did not managed to finish below 2.5hours (as proposed by coach Ed), but this has made me who I am today. Stronger in the head. Stronger physically.

It would be a significant run for me this year! Don't be afraid of signing up, just do it and be courageous enough to face it. Its when you're weak you'll realise you need your head to pull you through. Running with you!

[55K bike]

Ima's First

Today's target was Hard Rock Hotel. The journey through Tanjung Bungah and Batu Ferringhi was pretty smooth. Speed was consistent even through the mini climb. After 20minutes into my ride, while making a slight turn, they were lots of little little stones around the road and that almost made me skit and fall. Phewwww. Managed to balance.

BUT...my rear tire failed on me. It punctured!! It must be the little little rocks! I have no experience with dealing with a flat tire. So no choice had to call mum. Fortunately she was available and kind enough to say yes. haha. I tell you.....I was so so so soooooooOooooOOOooOOoooOoooooO extremely geram cuz I couldn't finish my ride. Disappointing betul.

Mum came about 35minutes later and I stripped Ima, put her in the the back seat. Still haven't buy a bike carrier. Have to fix Ima ASAP, I have a plan. Nyek nyek nyek!

[Ima resting]

[the view while I was waiting for mum]

[my unsatisfied gesture]

I saw 4 cyclist today. Can I make friends with you all?

[FW + 12K bike + a ride home]

I come, I ride, I conquer

As soon as the clock ticks 5.30pm, I started clearing my files on the table, refill my water bottle half full (don't wanna carry so extra weight) and shut down my computer. When I opened the door, my manager was about to come in. She looked at me but I quickly avoid any eye contact and walk straight to the lift. Pheeewwwww.

Got everything ready and left home about 6.10pm. Traffic was heavy on the way to Paya Terubong and I really hate it. Hot, smelly, and drivers are driving crazily. Once I passed all those busy road, the challenge begins.

Hill 1 Paya Terubong. It was super sloppy, even with my Saga, I had to use first gear. And I have never use the smallest gear with Ima before until yesterday. Just half way up the slope I really thought of giving up. It was real torture! I stopped by the road side and turned behind. Legs and back muscles begging me to just go home. But mind and heart says, support the girls, push through!

So I continued, slowly and steadily up the hill till the junction to turn up to Balik Pulau. Goin up the slope is tough but not as bad as the first climb. I pushed as hard as I could, did as much standing climb as possible but that really burns up a lot of my energy. Once I finish the hill, it was time to enjoy. The best part in cycling is decending! Wohoo!! I was screaming like a little boy. Felt to win blowing through my face and body. Ima enjoyed herself too.

After the game, I quickly grabbed Ima and head back home. The journey back was harder. Started of with a small climb again. My legs are feeling it but still no sign of cramp. In my mind was just, Push push, come on DESWYN! you can do it.!! insane courage!go!go!go! My head was the source of energy that night.

No more climb after I got out of BP, turn right via Relau and Jelutong Expressway. I was going strong and fast (avg 35 km/h) and then...my right thigh gave in. I was feeling the muscle pull. Walaueh...fortunately I was already near home that time.

The journey was about 55km long and I took about 2hours 20minutes. It was a good experience and the support from my friends are just indescribable. They made the journey more meaningful and easier for me. And thank you for sponsoring the powergel, it gave me the extra boost on the way back. =)

About the Penang women's state team, they have improved in their moves and runs. But still lack a lot in their stamina. This gives their opponent a lot of space when they counter attack. Congratz to Val of Innebandy! Co for putting her name on the scoreboard. Nice goal! Good job girls and looking forward for your next game.

If you only train when you're feeling good, you won't be able to train your mental strength. The choice is yours.

[55k bike + sadly no pictures to show]

Tour de Balik Pulau

I like how ky name my ride to BP, 'Tour de Balik Pulau'. I find names/brands very important, how you name/label it makes a lot of difference. For example, a person's job description is to dispatch mails and collect documents. Which sounds better? Office boy? Dispatch Officer? or Mail Logistics Exec? I'm sure you would choose the third one eventho the pay is the same.

In order to motivate your club members, try using creative names to get them excited and motivated. I find in an effective tool to boost their morale. Some people may find it lame, but I tell you what. If you know what you're doing, just do it and be open to constructive criticisms. And for those who loves to criticize, please criticize the act and not the person. Thank you.

Tour de Balik Pulau sounds like a competitive ride with pros around. Thinking about it makes me nervous. Have to win the battle in my head first. I can do EVERYTHING through Him who gives me strength. This will be my mental PowerBar.

[my journey to the girls]

[swim + thanks ky for your 'label', it inspires me more =) + ironman world championships will be happening tomorrow]

Online Shopping

I have never trusted buying things online but now, I'm a frequent online shopper. Its addictive because its so easy and convenient. It also feels like a game, transactions can be done with a few mouse clicks.

My latest purchase is a cycling jersey set, its a Cervelo but of course it ain't original. An original set would cost about RM500++ For now, I just need an extra set so I could use it when the other one is being washed. Budget budget.

[the package]

[top]

[bottom]

[top+bottom]

I'm planning to ride up Balik Pulau this coming Wednesday to support the Penang Girl's State team againts Unihawks of USM. Hopefully I can reach there before the game starts. As I was driving back from State training last Tues, I'm imagining the route I'll be pedalling. Its gonna be pure torture! If you see me, do give me some words of encouragement. =)

[upper body + come support the girl's team.14oct09.balik pulau sports complex]

Why Do I Do What I Do?

Did another kayuh malam around my usual loop with a PB time of 48mins. Felt like I needed to push a little more, so I continued to Dalat International School and back, which was another 15km.

The reason for my cycling through usual loop is because I pass by significant places/landmark in Penang. And I'm not the type of person who can sit down intercede for our Nation/Land. I have to go out there and be there. This was my prayer during my ride with Ima.

Jelutong Expressway - High rates of accidents and death. Pray that there won't be any death/accidents in this busy and highly use roads. Drivers/motorist will be alert. *While I was doing that, a car that came full speed from behind ALMOST hit another car which turned out from no where, I was like, 'ooOOOOOHHHHHH!H!H!!!!!shite!!'. Thank God it was a safe night.

E.Gate/Gateway City Church - The Church there will continue to Make God Famous, people around the area will be bless by their ministry and works and for growth spiritually and physically.

Some small Malay restaurants - They won't be touched by the economic downturn of the country and they will live with sufficient needs. God bless this family!

Queensbay Mall/Eastin Hotel - Biggest shopping mall in Penang, youth and teenagers would not spend so much time/money doing unnecessary stuff here. Holiday makers would feel the peace here.

TOG - Youths especially would live their days for Jesus and be the light shinining brightly. The church would continue to be one.

USM - Pray for protection for the students here, hostel safety that no buglary or any unwanted incidents to happen. CF in the uni will not face any opposition from the authorities, every project will be approved. Sexual immoralities will be broken.

Greenlane McD/CGL/PFS/MBS - Students will know how to behave when they are not home. God bless the CFs and students in the school.

Wa kau...by doing this I got faster and stronger. Got back home and spend half an hour cleaning Ima and myself.

[wash clean wipe]

So the answer to the question is because its a gift and what better way to use it for His purpose than for others. Last Saturday during youth, I was reminded that my goal is not to finish with the fastest time and a medal around my neck. But to help people along the way. This is how we know what love is.

[46.5km bike]

One Crazy Night

Last night I did a another loop around my usual route. I felt much stronger with my legs and I thought to myself that I could improve on my time, maybe its because of the cool wheather. While I was riding through Jelutong Expressway, there was a really nasty accident at the other side of the road. A lot of by 'kaypo' people surrounding the area.

Went on smooth, strong and fast until....................... a motorbike came and knocked my front wheels! Walaueh!! The first thing that came to my mind was, 'Gai liao la!! Ima sure gone d.' He just apologized and sped away, claiming that he didn't see me. He was dreaming la! Come on!!! But really thank God that the wheel was still okay and I just got a little scratch on my hand. There goes my personal best (PB) time.

[a pretty deep scratch at my front wheel]

[a small cut, fortunately I was holding the lower handle bar]

[a deep damage at my grip, if my hands were there, gone case]

[fork also not smooth anymore =/]

[broken rear red light and I lost 2 AAA size batteries]

After my accident, I quickly race home because the clouds were turning black and the wind was getting stronger. When I was almost home, there was another rider following me from behind. So I tried to be friendly, turned and say hie. He gave me some pointers, advices and even invited me to his 'geng'. He thinks I'm fast and my stamina is good. Hahaha!

I told him my main sport is Floorball le. Floorball is the foundation for all my physical fitness. So we exchange numbers and he even help me fix my new toy, a cycle computer. Yes!!! My Cateye Strada Wireless. Wohoo! When I fix it on my own, the computer can't seem to connect to the receiver but he saved me. Thanks Sani.

One think I've learned is that we should be friendly if we are good at something. Don't be stuck up and hidung tinggi. Not good for you and people around you. Just cycle and make friends. Even though being friendly is not my strength but I still try. I am shy guy. Ha!ha!

Now I can track my speed and distance more accurately. Don't have to use Google earth anymore. And it was an interesting night.

[40K bike and two lost AAA batteries]