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Sunday, September 04, 2011

10 things about SAFRA Army Half Marathon 2011

1. For the first time, Vincent and I reached the Start Line before the flag-off at 5:15am. That's because we didn't return home after Squad gathering the night before. Didn't have good sleep at Raffles City McDonald's, and it's worth reviewing the cost/benefit for future races!

2. Having Kopi before a race seems to be a good strategy for me. My heart was beating fast and I seemed to have more energy for the first half of the race.

3. The organisers improved on the baggage deposit system--Anyone from any category can deposit baggages at any lanes. That totally saved time and there weren't long queues!

4. I loved the signs at every water station, that informed runners the distance to the next water station. That helped me to plan whether I should drink (or not) at the water stations. Psychologically, it helped me to 'regulate' my own thirst level too, because I can totally anticipate when I'll reach the next hydration point.

5. Route-wise, the run through Gardens by the Bay was over-rated. By the time everyone reached there, it was still pitch-dark. It was in fact the darkest stretch throughout the journey. Humidity and the radiating heat from runners made it uncomfortable too. Not to forget how the route became narrow at a part just outside Gardens by the Bay, resulting in a little bottleneck. Oh ya, and it was exceptionally quiet there -- which wasn't helpful in motivations.

6. No East Coast Park in this year's route? I've grown to be used to running there in big races-- breathing in the sea breeze and enjoying good ventilation and watching the sun rise. Please bring it back next year.

7. The uphill at Fort Canning was encountered as late as 17km into the 21km race. It would probably not do so much harm to runners if it was reversed. Thankfully we anticipated that. And at least the downhill gave me some momentum for an extra push.

8. I drank a hell lot of fluids. My throat was perpetually dry, but my stomach was already full of liquids. I had to alternate between jogs and walks in the final 5km. But every time I walked for a while, I'll get a little worried about the timing, and I'll jog again.

9. For the first time, I went for the muscle rub service after the run. It was heavenly. Thank you, Salonpas.

10. This was my 5th consecutive AHM since 2007. Still 2 more races to go before the year ends, which includes my 5th full marathon in December. Right now, it's time to let the new blisters and new discoloured toe-nails heal first.

人生是黑白的.
11:28 PM <3

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