“West To East”: 6th Day/Fort Magsaysay & Mountain Pass

On March 25, 2011March 25, 2011 By kingofpotsIn Food & Dishes, Insights, Jogging, Military, Pictures, Places to Run, Practice Runs, Runners Injury, Runners' Training, Running, Travel, Ultramarathon9 Comments

10:30 AM March 20, 2011/Santa Rosa to Laur, Nueva Ecija

The last time that I passed along the Santa Rosa to Fort Magsayay Road was in the mid-part of 2004 when I was a Brigade Commander of the 702^nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army’s 7^th Infantry Division with my Headquarters located in Barangay Calaanan, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija. The road was not yet paved/asphalted as most of it was a narrow dirt road. This road is the most direct route to Fort Magsaysay from the Maharlika Highway in Santa Rosa and I take this route as a short cut to avoid the traffic of vehicles in Cabanatuan City. The road has a distance of 20 kilometers where both sides are open with rice fields and dry lands which were planted with mango trees as you approach to the military reservation of Fort Magsaysay.

Fort Magsaysay is the biggest military camp in the country which consists of hundreds of thousands of hectares from the eastern portions of Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija up to the seashore of the Pacific Ocean. The area is so vast that the military could not guard the reservation from informal settlers; kaingin farmers; and other kinds of squatters. Even if various types of military training are being conducted in these areas ranging from artillery fires, tank manuevers and combat fires, military exercises with other allied armed forces in Asia and the USA, and other kinds of special operations, those unscrupulous illegal settlers are still there to claim a portion of the military reservation. It is sad that the military reservation is now shrinking.

I am Starting To Sweat Few Kms From Start

When I was the Camp Commander of Camp Aguinaldo, I had a chance to play a round of golf with the Speaker of the House of the Representatives then and he asked me what is my solution for the unabated military adventurism of young officers to topple whoever is in power in the government. I told him that my idea is not a solution but it is a firm message that AFP Officers and Soldiers who are involved in this kind of military adventurism should be punished severely. I told the politician that it is about time to establish a State Penitentiary (outside Metro Manila) with a Military Prison Facility at the middle part of the Fort Magsaysay Reservation Area! And let these prisoners develop the area as homestead where they can produce and cultivate food and herd some domesticated animals and be away and out of reach from the media. The politician liked my idea and it ended there.

The Color of my Shirt is Becoming Darker

I expected that today’s run will be the most challenging stage due to the hotter temperature of Nueva Ecija and the looming hills/mountains that I am going to traverse as I progress towards my destination. I was informed by some of the officers assigned in Fort Magsaysay that there is already a short cut route from Fort Magsaysay that goes all the way to Laur, Nueva Ecija that traverses the mountains east of Fort Magsaysay. And the road has an estimated distance of 64 kilometers from Fort Magsaysay to the town of Dingalan, Aurora.

Ahhh...Brgy Liwayway, The Heat, The Clouds and The Mountains

The flat, wide and hot road from Santa Rosa to Fort Magsaysay was already a challenge as I started my run at 10:30 AM. From where I started, I estimated that I still have at least 81 Kilometers to my destination and covering one-half of the distance was already enough for my day’s run. I started my run from where I stopped the previous night. I was still using the Adidas Tech Fit Compression Shorts and with my Gray NIKE Compression Shirt. I decided not to use my arm sleeves as I would like to see my perspiration simply dry up from my skin while I was running. I prepared for my Ice Bandana to cool off my neck and nape and my Buff to cover my face. The ritual for hydration was still there and my strategy for my pacing but every time that I have my pit stop, I have to pour cold water on my head making my running cap wet/damp while running. This was the first time that I did such ritual of pouring cold water on my head and nape every time I take a sip of water from my support vehicle. Since I did not bring sponge, this ritual gave me a refresh feeling every two kilometers.

Nice Mango Orchard On My Left & Still Looking Good

The pain on my knee/left quads was tolerable and I have to make some adjustments with my footwork. The ASICS Gel- LyteRacer DS was very nice and comfortable to my feet as they are light with the much-needed cushion. I decided to use this shoe throughout the run after my bad experience with my Adidas Adizero Mana on my 4^th day leg.

Finally Entering the Fort Magsaysay Territory

The Fort's Cantonment Area Is Still Far From This Place

As I got nearer to the boundary of the Fort Magsaysay reservation, the road started to ascend but I knew it was runable but I opted to conserve my strength by brisk walking through the uphills and resume running on the downhill parts. As I reached the intersection of the road that goes to the Gate 1 (Main Gate) of Fort Magsaysay, trucks that carry US Armed Forces mobility assets and other equipment were still passing me and saw them entering the premises of the camp. I concluded that with the volume and number of trucks that passed me for the past two days, this military exercise would be involving a lot of troops and administrative personnel!

The Last Wide Truck To Pass Me & Approaching A New Crossroad!

As I crossed the Bangad-Fort Magsaysay Road, I could see in front of me a newly constructed and newly-opened highway that goes way up to the mountains of Fort Magsaysay. The peak that I am going to reach was still vivid in my mind. It was the same “impact area” or location of our target when our basic infantry class had our hands-on firing of the 105-mm Howitzer Artillery pieces. Yes, those were the days when we were trained to request for an artillery fires by following some “structured” steps so that the one who is adjusting and pulling the trigger of the artillery piece would be able to land the artillery ammunition/rounds accurately to where the target is.

My Entry To The Newly-Opened Fort Magsaysay-Laur Shortcut Highway

Still Counting On My Strides...Hydration Strategy Maintained

After running at least 3 kilometers from the crossing/entrance of this new highway, I dropped by a roadside eatery, the only eatery before going up the peak of the mountain. It’s called Big Joe’s Eatery and I immediately asked for the viand available for lunch. They have Sinampalokan Na Manok which was the viand with a soup/broth for the day and I ordered two orders. The taste of a home-coke viand is heaven, moreso, if you are running a multi-day stage run! They simply call the place “Tanawan” which is the common name they give to a place at the foot or mid-part of a mountain as you go to the peak. While I was eating, a white Lexus Car stopped at the place and the occupants also took their lunch thereat! What? These people could be locals, I thought. But when they were finished with their lunch, they asked how far is Santa Rosa is from the place. A-ha! They are also first-timers like me on this road!

Started Running Again After Lunch...The Mountain Pass Is On The Left Side of the Mountain!

The road leading to the peak of the mountain was very challenging and the temperature of the day was so hot that I have to be supported every 500 meters. Definitely, this is the hardest leg of my adventure run. If the ascending portions are very challenging, the descending parts are much more challenging. I have to control my footsteps on the steep descending portions as I don’t want more pain and swelling of my left quads and knee. I took light and short strides on these downhill portions as I was careful with any untoward incident or issues on my leg muscles. I don’t want to do any foolish thing that may cause any untoward accident to happen with barely 50 kilometers away from my destination as I wanted to finish this adventure run. It could be funny to see me running on those descending portions as I could visualize myself to be running very erect with my back straight up as I control my footsteps/stride.

Walking Backwards Along Steep Sections of the Road

I admit I walked on those steep ascending portions of the route that leads to the peak of the mountain. Sometimes, I tried to walk backwards just to relieve the pressure on my quads and knees as my calf muscles are the ones that are working and being stretched. There was no point on attempting to jog along these parts of the road. I feel much comfort that I was able to see a military detachment on top of the mountain where you can see Cabanatuan City on the west and the Sierra Madre Mountains on the east. Aside from providing security in the area, the military is also reforesting the place with young trees. There is also a road side eatery where food and refreshments are available and I could see some Nipa Huts which you could rent for P 50.00 per hour to enjoy the view of the place!

The View of Santa Rosa & Cabanatuan City On The Background

As I passed the peak of the mountain, I knew it will be a roller-coaster run/jog/walk up to the crossing on the old road/highway that goes to the small town of Laur, Nueva Ecija. The eastern side of the mountain is more developed and more populated as I could see some mango orchards and cultivated fields on the side of the mountain. There are also groups of houses (they call itself as “puroks”) which I assume are also illegal settlers. But most of all, I really wonder who owns those mango orchards whose trees are already bearing fruits that nearly touch the ground. I hope these mango orchards are under the administration of the military units stationed in Fort Magsaysay!

My Reward For Reaching The Top of the Mountain!

Mountains At The Background Are My Destination

Roller-Coaster Run On The Eastern Side of the Mountain

I told to myself that I have to reach the crossing towards Laur before it becomes dark. With consistent pacing and following my hydration and nutrition strategy, I could see already in a distance the vehicles that are travelling along the Laur-Gabaldon Road and it gave me the satisfaction that I still have one more day to go before I finally reach my destination.

Too Much Salt From My Sweat Even Without Taking Any Salt Tablets

Another "Marin Headlands" Version In Laur, NE?

Getting Nearer to the Crossing in the Old Highway

As soon as I reached the crossing, I found out that I was able to cover a distance of 41 Kilometers since I started my run from Santa Rosa but I wanted to reach the Km Post 0 that is located in the Poblacion of Laur. I instructed my support crew that I have to complete at least 42 kilometers and I need one more kilometer to run. So, while I was running along the Laur-Gabaldon Road, in a few meters, I saw a Km Post that says that there are 4 kilometers more to go before reaching the town of Laur. I decided to continue my run with my support vehicle providing me with the illumination I needed. The road was not busy and it was already dark. I comfortably maintained my strides with the objective of reaching Laur and be able to run a distance of 45 kilometers for the day. As we got nearer to Km Post 0, we were able to pass by a store that serves hot mami and I decided to stop and take some hot noodle soup.

Finally Arriving At The Crossing of the Old National Highway to Laur

We actually want to ask some information from the locals about the nearest resort where we can stay overnight and the store was the best place where we can inquire about such information. As we were eating our noodle soup, I started the conversation with the owner and after some exchange of questions and answers, we decided to take a look at the said resort that the owner of the store had recommended. However, I still need to run and reach Km Post 0 of Laur, Nueva Ecija. I was surprised that the Km Post is only 150 meters away from the Store!

I stopped my run officially for the day on the said Km Post. I need to rest but the place where we are going to check-in for the night is still 18 kilometers away towards Gabaldon. It took us only few minutes to reach the place aboard our support vehicle. Although the place is not well lighted, we did not mind as we need a place where we can take a shower, wash some clothes, and sleep overnight. Unfortunately, there is no Wi-Fi Connection! However, I am sure that once there will be sunlight the following morning, the place will emerge as a beautiful place to rest and stay!

Last Kilometer Post For The Day...36-37K To Go!

I was able to cover a distance of 45 Kilometers from the Starting Point in Santa Rosa up to Laur, Nueva Ecija. This leg is the hardest day in my adventure run due to the hot temperature in Fort Magsaysay and its immediate environs and the challenge of the steep inclines going to the mountain pass. The steep descending portions were also a challenge on my part because of my swollen quads but I was comforted with the nice scenery that my eyes could see all around me. These places and scenery are priceless!

We stayed overnight in a resort which is called Stone 8 Resort which 5 kilometers away from the Poblacion of Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija.

Some of the data/information on this day’s run:

Weather: Very, very hot along the Santa Rosa-Fort Magsaysay-Mountain Pass Road.

Distance Covered For The Day: 45 Kilometers

Time of Actual Running: 8 hours

Average Pace: 4-5 Kilometers Per Hour

Running Apparel: Adidas Tech Fit Compression Shorts; NIKE Compression Shirt; Adidas Running Cap; NIKE Black Soccer Socks; Ice Bandana; Buff; Sunglasses by Ray-Ban & Oakley

Running Shoe: ASICS Gel-LyteRacer

Expenses:

Lunch @ Old Joe’s Eatery (good for 2 persons)—P 120.00

Hot Mami @ Laur (good for two persons)—P 46.00

Total Expenses For The Day—P 166.00

Total Number of Kilometers (After 6 Days)—252 Kilometers

To be continued…

“West To East”: 5th Day/”Pain Is Temporary”

On March 23, 2011March 24, 2011 By kingofpotsIn Food & Dishes, Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Places to Run, Practice Runs, Runners Injury, Runners' Training, Running, Sports Program, Travel, Ultramarathon7 Comments

12:45 PM March 19, 2011/SCTEX Exit/Entry in La Paz, Tarlac to Santa Rosa, Nueva Ecija

I got good signs that I would be able to continue my run on the 5^th day when I saw my swollen left quadriceps had reduced in size and the pain I felt could be tolerable when I woke up in the morning with 9 hours of sleep. It did not matter if I was going to start at noon time for my day’s run as long as I can push my body to run a distance and bring myself nearer to my place of destination.

I was glad that I brought my Adidas Tech Fit Compression Shorts which has those shiny straps that are positioned on the buttocks & hamstring areas and connecting to my quadriceps muscle. The shiny strap has a way to compress and hold my muscles on the areas it covers and it relieves pain on such areas. I was lucky to have brought such compression shorts which I don’t normally wear on my training and road races. It was a blessing that I brought such compression shorts!

After taking my shower after I woke up, I tried the shorts and it perfectly solved my problem about my quads—the swollen portion is pressed by the strap and it minimizes the pain that I could feel every time I lift me left foot from the ground. At this point, I know I could reach my destination with the plan to use this compression all the way to the beach of Dingalan Bay.

After we checked-out from the hotel, we have to travel 35 kilometers from Cabanatuan City back to La Paz, Tarlac but along the way, we decided to take it easy for the day and observe how my swollen quads would react for the day’s run. In Zaragoza, Nueve Ecija (the first town of Nueva Ecija from Tarlac Province) and the town next to La Paz, Tarlac, we stopped by in one of the road side eateries which had been there for the past 40 years serving broiled catfish (hito) to people passing such area. These catfish are freshly caught and cooked as the place is surrounded with river and marshland.

Early Lunch @ Eva's Restaurant (Broiled Hito, Fried Pork Liempo, and...)

Beef Bulalo @ Eva's Restaurant (La Paz-Zaragoza Boundary)

We had our early lunch at 11:00 AM at the Eva’s Eatery which located near the Zaragoza Bridge (there is a lot of bridges though in Zaragoza in between La Paz and Santa Rosa). As we entered the place made of bamboo, wood, nipa hut, and concrete floor, I observed that the place is clean and had improved a lot since my last visit here when I was still a Lieutenant/Captain. The Inihaw Na Hito and broiled Pla-pla wrapped on an aluminum foil are still the favorite dishes in the place. We ordered Bulalo, Inihaw Na Hito, and Fried Pork Liempo and the food was great. We stayed in the place longer as we had planned as more customers entered the establishment. There was this group of motorbikers who stopped for lunch, two families in two separate commuter vans also joined, a middle-age couple, individuals, and seemingly businessmen and travellers passing along the said road.

After lunch, I prepared myself inside the restaurant by wearing my running shoes and arm sleeves and I knew that my trip to the starting point will be a short one. I started the run at 12:45 Noon after the usual photo-ops. It was hot but I was used to it already. At this time, I was wearing the “A Runner’s Circle” (BOA USA) Technical Shirt from Joe Matias, Raul, and Perkins of the said Specialty Running Store. I know, wearing this shirt is some sort of advertising the place and most of the people at the Eva’s Eatery were able to see my shirt, moreso, on all the places that I have passed along the way. It was a way to give back the favour of what ARC Manila had supported to the Elite Team Bald Runner, BDM and PAU Races. Thanks, guys! You are doing great to serve the running community of the country. Please continue helping others!

@ The SCETX Exit/Entry in La Paz, Tarlac

I was glad my swollen left quads are holding up with the continuous pounding of my left foot on the road. I tried to shift my “more dominant” running leg to my right leg/foot and tried to run with my left leg with a very light touch on the ground. The counting of strides was still there and the “drill” on the road was followed religiously without let-up. Everything that I was doing on the road was already automatic and the support crew was already expert on providing me everything that I needed.

Along the La Paz-Zaragoza-Santa Rosa Road, I was consistently passed by wide trucks that carry US Marines’ mobility equipment, generators, and water treatment facility which I suspect to be proceeding to Fort Magsaysay. There must be a Joint Military Exercises which is about to be conducted with the US Armed Forces and the Armed Forces of the Philippines inside the vast areas of Fort Magsaysay. Even if I was running on the right side of the road, these wide trucks really give some space as they passed me. The trucking company has good and disciplined drivers.

Passing On Those Parked Trucks Carrying US Armed Forces Assets

Passing Trucks Giving Me Space On The Road

Resting While Having Some Photo-Ops With The Ricefields

I Love The Pain and The Scenery Along The Road

I passed by the Eva’s Eatery and had some photo-ops outside of the place. The traffic of vehicle on the Nueva Ecija side is lesser as compared with the Tarlac side. The road from Zaragoza to Santa Rosa is bounded with vast ricefields on both sides and it was refreshing to see the colors of green and yellow as most of them have already grains on it. The rice will be ready for harvest in a few weeks’ time.

Signs That I Was Near The Poblacion of Santa Rosa

Running As I Crossed The Santa Rosa Bridge

And Then Walking Up To The End of the Bridge

Finished 30K At This Point But I Need To Run Some More!

Since this day’s run is for me to observe the condition of my swollen quads, I made it a point that this is my recovery run. I decided to cover a distance of 32 kilometers. Once I crossed the Santa Rosa Bridge, I was able to complete 30 kilometers. I needed to run another 2 kilometers and crossed the Maharlika Highway as the road leads me to Fort Magsaysay.

It was already dark when I reached the last kilometer post for the day. My swollen quads had passed the test and they have maintained its present condition. The pain was still there but it was tolerable. A longer sleep/rest will surely do the trick for me to be ready again for the next day’s run. The Adidas Tech Fit Compression Shorts did its job to hold my leg muscles during this recovery run lasting for 5 ½ hours actual time of running. I highly recommend this kind of compression shorts for those who are ultra runners and planning to do their multi-day adventure runs in the future. I decided to have it washed immediately and have it as my running shorts for the next day!

Continued To Run, Passing Along the Santa Rosa Public Market

Finally, Sitting On Top Of the Last Kilometer Post of the Day!

My dinner was in one of the road side eateries in Cabanatuan City with Sinigang Na Baboy, Lechon Paksiw, and our left-over of our Bulalo from the Eva’s Restaurant in the La Paz-Zaragoza boundary. After the dinner, we had to go back to the Hotel where we stayed the previous day because of its Wi-Fi Connection and clean rooms.

I did not had my swollen quads massaged but placed an Ice Bag to it for a duration of 30 minutes and then apply a thin layer of Omega Pain Killer and I took one capsule of Alaxan FR before going to bed.

So far, I’ve completed a distance of 207 kilometers after 5 days of running from the beach of Bolinao, Pangasinan. I knew I would be running another 70+ kilometers until I would reach my destination. I had mixed emotions before going to bed as I knew the places I will be passing along will be bounded with mountains and the roads offer more steep inclinations and therefore, will be more challenging on my part. There is only one way to think about the challenges for the next days—think positive!

Some of the additional data/information on this day’s run:

Weather: Very hot but becoming colder during night time.

Distance Covered For the Day: 32 Kilometers

Duration of Actual Running: 5 ½ Hours

Average Pace: 5-6 Kilometers Per Hour

Running Apparel: A Runner’s Circle (BOA USA) Shirt; Adidas Tech Fit Compression Shorts; Adidas White Soccer Socks; Headsweat Running Cap; Local Buff; Arm Sleeves; Nathan Hydration Belt; and Sunglasses by Ray-Ban

Running Shoes: ASICS Gel-LyteRacer

Expenses:

Dinner (Previous Day)—P 450.00

Early Lunch @ Eva’s Restaurant with Softdrinks—P 640.00

Hotel Accommodation—P 900.00

Dinner @ Cabanatuan City Roadside Eatery—P 160.00

Gasoline @ Cabanatuan City—P 1,000.00

Total Expenses For The Day—P 3,150.00

Total Distance Covered (After 5 Days)—207 Kilometers

To be continued…

“West To East”: 4th Day/Swollen Quads!

On March 22, 2011 By kingofpotsIn Food & Dishes, Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Places to Run, Practice Runs, Runner's Fashion/Attire, Runners Accessories, Runners Injury, Runners' Training, Running, Travel, Ultramarathon2 Comments

9:45 AM March 18, 2011/From Camiling, Tarlac to SCTEX Entry/Exit in La Paz, Tarlac

I was able to sleep for 9 hours at the Royal Blue Hotel in Camiling, Tarlac and it was really a sound sleep. I felt energized again for the day’s run from Camiling, Tarlac up to the Kilometer Post where I could decide to stop to end the day’s run. The plan was to run leisurely without thinking of the number of kilometers that I have to finish for the day. I also started not to follow the Galloway Ratio of Run-Walk. I just simply ran an average pace of 7:30 to 8:00 minutes per kilometer and take a brief walk few meters before reaching my support vehicle. However, I maintained my ritual of walking the uphills and running through the downhills. My brief pit stops would last from 2-4 minutes and checking my blog through my laptop would last up to 15 minutes. And eating in those carinderias/road side eateries would last me for a stop/rest of 20 minutes!

After the usual “drill” upon waking up from bed, my team was ready leave the hotel for a brief breakfast at Jollibee. After breakfast, I was brought to the last kilometer post where stopped the previous night for the regular photo-ops as a part of the starting regimen of every daily run. I started my run at 9:45 AM.

@ Camiling, Tarlac: Start of the 4th Day

It seems that Camiling, Tarlac is the “melting” pot of the western portion of Tarlac Province. Once you pass along the commercial district of the town, you could see the slow movement of vehicles due to traffic. There was a parade of vehicles advertising some sort of Hog’s Feeds and a new business establishment for farm needs and supplies. It is also the crossroad of vehicles going to the central towns of Pangasinan and the western towns, too! So, vehicles and mass transport/buses coming from Manila and from the Western & Central Pangasinan would converge in this town. Due to the heavy traffic of the main road, I had to walk for about 2 kilometers on the sidewalk trying to observe the people, the vehicles, and the environment. It is good to see 2 PNP personnel manning the crucial intersection to see to it that the traffic is done in orderly manner. All the vehicles are moving but with a crawling speed, at least, all the vehicles are moving.

After two kilometers of walking and another right turn towards Tarlac City, I started my jog as I met a lot of vehicles coming from the opposite direction. The usual ritual during the previous run was followed—drink water every 2 kilometers where my support have advanced; drink sports drinks every 1 ½ hours; and eat solid food during my longer duration of pit stops. Just like in the previous days, I see to it that I have to urinate at least every hour and observe how my body is perspiring. Since yesterday, I opted not to take any Tylenol tablets to ease the pain on my running legs.

The road from Camiling to Sta Ignacia, the next town, and towards Tarlac City is famous for those rolling and long ascending and descending slopes that I have to force myself to walk on those ascending portions and run through the descending parts. It was a repetitive process to be doing this to preserve the strength of my leg muscles. On those walking breaks on the ascending portions, I would also count my strides just to be able to have a continuous rhythm and pace throughout those inclined portion. Although I was still on the right side of the road, I would go to the shoulders when I have my walking breaks. But on those descending parts of the road, I have to continue my running on the paved portion of the road. If there is white-line paint on the edge of the road, then this is the place where I have to land my foot during running. Those white lines are surprisingly rubberized that it has some bounce on my running shoes. There were lots of ascending and descending parts of the road for today’s run.

At Barangay Nambalan in Sta Ignacia, Tarlac, in front of one of those High School compounds, I passed by a group of students who were walking towards the direction where I was going. As I passed them, I waved my hands at them and they cheered at me and they were shouting words of encouragement. After 300 meters ahead, my support vehicle was waiting for me. While the group of students were walking behind me, I stopped at the support vehicle and started to have my “ritual”—drink and sit on my stool. As I was sitting and resting, the group of students reached me and one of them said,

Student: Uncle, adda met gayam napintas a lugan mo. Apay nga agtar-taray ka? (Uncle, you have a nice car and why are you still running?)

BR: Exercise ko lang daytoy! (I am doing this as a part of my exercise)

Student: Uncle, Ban-banogem lang dayta bag-bagim! (Uncle, you are just punishing yourself!)

BR: (Silent. No words to think of)

The student is smart and he has a point! After that conversation, I was already thinking of stopping my adventure run and go home to have my rest. But as a “warrior” I don’t want to be distracted in accomplishing the mission that I have set to myself.

I resumed my run and running and walking through the ascending and descending portions of the road that leads to Tarlac City. Later, I was already entering the city limits of Tarlac. The Aquino Bridge is the target to cross and I am already within the Commercial Center of Tarlac City! But something is bothering me on my feet. It seems that my feet are burning and I could feel that they are getting hot and had expanded. With one kilometer to go before the Aquino Bridge, I decided to stop by my support vehicle and changed my socks and running shoes. I opted to use the Adidas Adizero Mana for the day but it was my first time to feel such burning sensation and expansion of my feet after running with it for about 32 kilometers. I was using my ASICS running socks which I’ve been using for my long runs but I knew it was the shoes that was causing the problem. I immediately changed my socks with the local PUMA running socks which are thicker and used the always reliable stability-cushion properties of my ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 shoes.

Starting To Feel The Traffic In The City

After changing my shoes and socks, I was back on the road, crossing the Aquino Bridge, walking along the commercial district of Tarlac City and later I was already entering the road that goes to La Paz, Tarlac and to the SCETX Entry/Exit. As I was running along the La Paz-Sta Rosa Road, I felt I was hungry and decided to stop in one of the Carinderia/Turo-Turo Eateries. I ate a big bowl of Bulalo Mami/Noodle Soup with Ice Cold Coke. The simple meal energized me and I resumed my running.

It was already getting dark and the main task at hand was to reach the SCTEX entry/exit where I’ve decided to end the day’s run. I think I walked on the last 3 kilometers because of the heavy traffic on the said road, the dark sidewalk, and most of all, those gravel filled sidewalk where the foot hurts when I step on those big and small stones!

Finally, I reached my target, SCETX! At this point, I was already thinking of ending the adventure run and head towards Metro Manila. For today’s run, I was able to cover a distance of 45 Kilometers and in a Total of 175 kilometers in 4 days. I could feel that there was some pain on the mid foot portion of my left foot and my left knee was also in pain. After changing to drier clothes, I decided to look for a place where we could sleep with a Wi-Fi connection and I was back on my mission.

After eating my dinner, checking in a cheap hotel with Wi-Fi Connection in Cabanatuan City, and taking a shower, I observed that the lower portion of my left quadriceps had swollen. I thought it was my left knee that expanded in size but as I compared it with my right leg, I could see and feel that it was my lower left portion of my quads (it connects to the knee) that have been bloated and had some pain when it is pressed by the thumb. It was my first time to experience this and I knew that I got it from those descending roads in Sta Ignacia and Tarlac City. I would say this is the description of ultra trail runners of what they call as “fried quads”. There is no panic! I told my support crew, Marlon, to put some ice in my ice bag and have it strapped on the swollen part of my quads and then to massage it lightly with Omega Pain Killer. And lastly, to remind me to take one Alaxan FR capsule before I go to sleep.

After 9-10 hours of sleep, the swollen quads had reduced its size and there was no more pain that I could feel on my quads. It’s a “Go” again for the 5^th Day!

Some data/information during the day’s run:

Weather: Still hot but there are some places that were shaded with trees.

Distance: 45 Kilometers

Duration of Run: 9 Hours (due to more walking on the last 3 kilometers)

Average Pace: 5 KPH

Running Apparel: Team BR Technical Shirt; Adidas Adizero Running Shorts; ASICS Running Socks & PUMA Spots Socks; Local Buff; Headsweat Running Cap; Sunglasses by Ray-Ban & Oakley

Running Shoes: Adidas Adizero Mana (For 32 Kilometers) & ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 (For 13 Kilometers)

Total Kilometers Covered (4 Days)—175 Kilometers

Expenses:

Hotel Accomodation—P 750.00

Dinner (Previous Night) & Breakfast—P 700.00

Gasoline—P 1,000.00

Total Expenses—P 2,450.00

To be continued…

“West To East”: 3rd Day’s Strong Winds

On March 20, 2011March 20, 2011 By kingofpotsIn Food & Dishes, Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Places to Run, Practice Runs, Runner's Fashion/Attire, Runners' Training, Running, Travel, UltramarathonLeave a comment

8:45 AM March 17, 2011/From Brgy Socony, Bugallon, Pangasinan to Camiling, Tarlac

It was not too hard to look for a place to stay overnight. Just ask from the local folks and they will tell you where to go. After my run the previous day, I walked in one of the Carinderia’s on the side of the road. I asked for some Sinigang and they have Sinigang Na Baboy. I was surprised that they are serving Sinigang Na Native Na Baboy as seen from the black skin of the chopped meat of the broth. After 5 hours of running, the taste of a hot meal is simply amazing, coupled with an ice-cold Coke!

About 200 meters away from the Carinderia is a Traveller’s Inn called ACRO and from a distant sight, it seemed like one of those motels in Metro Manila. I really don’t care about the place as long as there is an air-con room with soft mattress with pillows and blanket and a shower room, the place is already perfect. Of course, the parking area is adjacent to the room and I was surprised that the room is clean and don’t have the smell of a cigarette smoke. The caretaker said that I have to pay P450.00 for a 12-hour stay and have to pay once I will leave the area. Great! It’s cheap as compared to the places where I spent overnight for the past two nights!

The “drill” was very fast once I entered the air-con room—undress my running apparel, enter the bathroom, take a cold shower first and then later rinse the soap with the hot water, dry up with the towel, brush my teeth, and change to something that is made of cotton and open the laptop computer to upload the pictures taken from my digital camera.

If I have time, I browse the Internet and check on my blog. Since the place has no Wi-Fi Connection, it is hard for me to make a post and upload some pictures in my blog using my SmartBro Internet Connection. What I do is write a post through MS Word as a document which I could save in my files. Once I reach a place where there is a Wi-Fi connection, that is the time I compose my blogpost by mixing the post I made through MS Word and uploading the pictures from my Computer. It is really fast if I am connected with an establishment with a Wi-Fi Connection.

@ The Starting Post For the 3rd Day Run (Brgy Socony, Bugallon, Pangasinan)

I started my run as early as 8:45 AM from the Km Post #357 and I was already on the Carlos P Romulo Highway that goes all the way to Tarlac City, 75 kilometers away! A hundred meters from the Crossing of Barangay Socony, I could feel already the Strong Winds meeting me. It was hard to run with this kind of situation. It seems someone is pulling me back as I progressed gaining few inches on the ground from my running. This was the feeling and the challenge of the environment until I reached the boundary of Camiling, Tarlac.

Almost all the parts of the Highway are flat and wide. Most of the sidewalk/shoulder is cemented/paved as I have an extra space where I could run if there are wide and big trucks on my back and on my front which are about to overtake slower vehicles. Running along the highway is uneventful except for those strong headwind. My pace and strides are okey that I have to follow what I’ve been reading on the blogs of other Ultrarunners. Actually, I’ve been using this technique since I’ve started running long distances—counting on my strides from 1-100 and repeating again..and again..and again, until it becomes my running “mantra” up to the time I take my rest or pit stop.

Trying To Chase The Philippine Version of Ford Motors

Another "Marin Headlands" in Bugallon, Pangasinan?

Trying To Duck From The Strong Headwind!

Counting the strides, instead of having attached to wires on your ears, is a better way for me to be motivated to run in long distances. Researches would say that for a runner to maintain a good form in running, he/she should maintain a good and consistent average stride pace/count. The research would say that an average of 80 strides per minute in long distance runs would be a good pace. However, more of the runners and scientists would prefer to maintain 90 strides per minute. So, on my run along the Romulo Highway, I tried to apply both, the 80 & 90 strides per minute. After running for about an hour and counting on my strides, I found out that I could sustain 90 strides per minute on flat/level parts of the highway while I could do as low as 85 strides per minute if the road is on a rolling terrain! So, for the rest of the way, I didn’t mind about the strong headwind as I consistently counted on my strides per minute. On the average, I could count 8 sets of 90 strides every time I could cover the distance between two kilometer posts! As my left hand is holding my stopwatch, my other hand’s fingers are counting on the number of sets of strides I’ve gone through!

@ Mangatarem, Pangasinan's Catholic Church

One of Those Rest Moments In Waiting Shed Along The

The road side Billboards of a certain garden and water resort in Mangatarem, Pangasinan was simply enticing that I have to stop for a late lunch! The attraction is that it has a Wi-Fi Connection! That was great! The place is called Dandan’s Resort which is located 2 kilometers off the Romulo Highway. On our way to the resort, as we followed the directional arrows, we got lost! Somebody changed the location of the directional signs which we found out later from the people within the barangay.

We ordered food to eat for our late lunch. It took some time before the food was ready but I did not bother me at all as I was busy uploading my pictures to one of my blog posts. The Internet was fast that I was able to upload a lot of pictures needed to be shown to my readers. The food consisted of Sinigang Na Bangus, Deep-Fried Na Liempo, Calamares and Chopseuy. The food was nice and I took time to eat almost everything. I was satisfied with the performance of their Wi-Fi connection. `After almost 2 hours of pit stop at the said resort, we were back to National Highway and started where I left.

Soon enough, I was already crossing the boundary of Pangasinan and Tarlac and I had my picture taken from the billboard of the Governor of Pangasinan, Hon Amado Espino Jr, who is also a Cavalier, Graduate of PMA Class of 1972. Governor Espino and Bani Mayor Navarro are both classmates and members of PMA Class of 1972. We belong to the same Company in the Academy, the “Charlie” Company! Actually, I am close with these two gentlemen! If they knew I was having my running adventure in their place, I am sure my running schedule will be put into a lot of adjustments and the Provincial PNP elements would escort me along the road with the proper local media coverage. I really don’t want that to happen. I did not want so much attention along the road.

...And Finally In The Province of Tarlac

San Clemente is the first town of Tarlac and the Poblacion’s commercial district is not impressive. It was already dark but I made up my mind to complete my run up to Camiling, Tarlac where I could see on my way to Bolinao that the place had improved tremendously and progressively for the past years. They have Jollibee & Chowking, signs that the place is economically progressive and stable. I tried to use my handheld Mini-Mag Light to light up my way but after a few minutes, the light simply died down. Since it was night time and I still have 5 kilometers to go, I asked my support vehicle to “shadow” me so that I can use the light coming from the vehicle’s headlamps. As the traffic is so light between San Clemente and Camiling, nobody from the vehicles behind us complained. Cool! The strong illumination created by my support vehicle made me run faster and consistently counted my strides by sets of 90.

As soon as I reached the Km Post at the Poblacion of Camiling, I had my usual last photo-ops for the day. Next thing to do was to proceed to Jollibee for my dinner. After a quick dinner, I ended sleeping in one of the clean and cheap rooms of the United Royal Hotel, located 500 meters from the last Kilometer Post of the day. Unfortunately, the place does not have a Wi-Fi connection but the signal from my Smart Bro started to become faster in its connection to the Internet. I went to bed at 10:45 PM for my 8-9 hours of rest/sleep overnight!

@ The Last Kilometer Post For The Day In Camiling, Tarlac

Other data/information for the day:

Weather: Very hot with Strong Headwinds from Bugallon, Pangasinan to Camiling, Tarlac

Distance: 45 Kilometers

Time: 8 Hours (Actual Time of Running)

Average Pace: 5-6 KPH

Running Apparel: NIKE Livestrong Shirt; NIKE Running Shorts; Adidas Running Cap; Bandana; DryMax Socks; Sunglasses by Ray-Ban & Oakley; Arm Sleeves

Running Shoe: ASICS Gel-LyteRacer

Expenses:

ACRO Accommodation—P 450.00

Dinner @ Carinderia—P 150.00 (For 2 persons)

Dandan’s Resort Late Lunch—P 700.00

Mangoes—P 100.00

Ice—P 30.00

Jollibee Dinner @ Camiling—P 350.00

Total Expenses For The Day—P 1,780.00

Total Distance Covered: 130 Kilometers (3 Days)

To be continued…

“West To East”: 2nd Day’s Adjustments, Hills & Heat

On March 19, 2011 By kingofpotsIn Food & Dishes, Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Places to Run, Practice Runs, Runners' Training, Running, Travel, Ultramarathon4 Comments

12:45 PM March 16, 2011/Barangay Seselangen, Sual to Barangay Socony/Crossing, Bugallon, Pangasinan

I started my adventure run for the 2^nd day at 12:45 PM/Noon. You can just imagine what it is like to start your run at this time of the day. I did not have to worry because I prepared for this kind of situation for the past weeks that I had my “heat” training at the Remy Field Oval Track and the roads inside the Subic Freeport.

For the 2^nd day, I need to make some adjustments with my attire. I have to use the regular running shorts so that people along the way would not have the impression that I lost my bike or make myself as the center of attraction among the younger and older women along the road. I believe that Pangasinan is famous for cyclists that spectators think that if an athlete uses a compression shorts, he/she is a cyclist. I used my old reliable ASICS shorts with a red-colored ASICS technical shirt which have the latest technology of a sports shirt. My running cap (by Headsweats) was the one that I used in my first BDM 102 Race in 2009 which has a cover on the nape portion. As seen on my pictures, the cape on the back keeps on waving and flying because of the headwind I met during the run. The inexpensive NIKE soccer socks was transformed to a running socks with calf sleeves, all in one! And I like them. The feeling when you use this kind of socks is the same with using those expensive calf sleeves! In order to have a lighter stride, I used my ASICS Gel-LyteRacer which is a Racing Shoe with Stability. I was also using those cheap arm sleeves to cover my arms from the heat of the sun and they work pretty well.

More Efficient & Better Attire For The Heat & Hills Starting Point For The Day

After the usual photo-ops from the starting line’s last kilometer post on the previous day, I started my run slowly, trying to warm-up my legs and my body. I usually do not have stretching exercises before starting my daily runs for the Adventure Run.

"Sel-lang" in Ilocano Means Crotch (Singit)

Although it was hot, I was meeting a strong headwind as I approached the mountains/hills of Sual, Pangasinan. There were lots of rolling terrain before I started my climb towards the ever-famous Sual Zigzag Road where the only restaurants in the place were located in the 70’s and 80’s. On top of the Zigzag Road, you could see the Sual Cove with the South China Sea. Without any problems, I was able to reach the peak and the distance of Poblacion Sual is reduced to only 2 kilometers and I was able to cover 9 kilometers from the place where I started. Those were tough 9 kilometers towards this place.

On this day’s run, I decided to run on the right side of the road with me travelling with the traffic. It got some relief from my left knee as I was able to balance my foot strike on the ground. I felt more comfort on my legs when running on this side of the road. I guess, this is a major adjustment that I did in this run. I was also very accessible to my support vehicle which would be waiting for me every 2 kilometers.

On this day, I also carried a small plastic bottle filled with water on my right palm which was also comfortable as I was used to carrying those Ultimate Direction Hand-held Water Bottle.

Roller-Coaster Road Going To Sual, Pangasinan

From the Sual Zigzag Road Peak Towards The Poblacion

Why go to Cebu City when Danggit is available in Sual, Pangasinan? LOL!

While passing along the Poblacion of Sual, I was able to inspect the stores that sell dried fish and fresh fruits. My crew was able to buy some of those ripe mangoes. I was surprised that most of the stores sell Danggit which is the dried fish famous from Cebu City. I really do not know if they are cheaper here but it costs P 450.00 per kilo. After running for 2 kilometers from the Poblacion of Sual, what was infront of me was the place where I stayed overnight, Covelandia Beach Resort. The place occupies a lot of space as seen from the road I was running through!

Jogging With High School Kids Who Were Going Home

A few kilometers more and I was able to reach the Poblacion of Labrador. There was traffic on the main road as most of the high school students were leaving the school and going back to their homes. While having my walking breaks, I started some conversation with the kids and it was relaxing! As I resumed my run, some of the kids joined me in my jogging and they were laughing and having fun. After a few meters, the kids stopped and it was timely that I was near my support vehicle. I had the chance to have some photo-ops with these kids.

A Pose With My "Pacers" & Future Runners

The road from Labrador to the next town of Bugallon is clear from so much traffic of vehicles. I am lucky to observe if there is one vehicle that I meet or pass me within the span of 5 minutes. As I looked around, I could see the sea on the left and the mountains on my right with rice fields. It was refreshing to see the things around me. After crossing so many small bridges and waving to people milling around on the corner of the streets, I was on the road with some kids on their bicycle trying to escort on the right side of the road.

I finished my run at 5:45 PM at Barangay Socony/Crossing, Bugallon, Pangasinan. I was able to cover a distance of 30 kilometers. After the photo-ops at the Kilometer Post, I entered in one of the carinderias and ate my early dinner of sinigang na native na baboy! Wow! The food and broth were great!

Duration of Running: 5 Hours

Distance: 30 Kilometers

Average Pace: 6 Kilometers Per Hour

Weather: Sunny & Hot with Light Headwind

Food & Water Nutrition: No Change from the Previous Day

Running Apparel: ASICS Shorts & Technical Shirt; NIKE Football Socks; Ice Bandana; Headsweats Runner’s Cap; Sunglass by Ray-Ban; Local Arms Sleeves

Shoes: ASICS Gel-Lyteracer

Tylenol Tablet: None

Expenses:

Hotel Accommodation @ Covelandia—-P 2,500.00

Food (Dinner & Breakfast)—P 1,300.oo

Fresh Fuits (Mangoes)—P 100.00

Ice—P 50.00

Gasoline—P 1,000.00

Dinner @ Carinderia—P 150.00

Total Expenses For The Day: P 5,100.00

(Note: Covelandia Beach Resort has NO Wi-Fi Connection!)

To be continued…

“West To East”: 1st Day (Unedited)

On March 16, 2011March 18, 2011 By kingofpotsIn Food & Dishes, Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Places to Run, Practice Runs, Runners' Training, Running, Travel, Ultramarathon7 Comments

(Note: The Internet connection in Western Pangasinan is weak or it might be the signal of my SmartBRO is the culprit.)

From Manila, my support crew and I travelled to Bolinao, Pangasinan at noontime and were able to reach the place at 4:30 PM after an easy cruising speed on the road. A brief tour of the small town followed where we tried to find a place to rest and sleep for overnight.

After going to two places near the town, we decided to go the place where those nice beach resorts are located. One kilometer from the “more expensive” beach resorts are located, we dropped by a place which is very simple and clean. There seems to be no people in the area and we asked an old guy for questions of trying to find out where the administration office is located. To my surprise, the “old guy” is the administration office and the manager. Well, the price is cheap and we were the only customer in the place plus the basic amenities were all available. Mang Ador, the old guy was so accommodating that his sales talk was that the cottage we were going to stay was the same place where Jericho Rosales stayed a few days ago for a filming/shooting event to the point that there are posters stapled on one of the posts indicating that a filming group was there. More stories and conversation with Mang Ador in my succeeding posts.

We slept for the night and woke up at 4:15 AM on the following day, Tuesday. After scooping seawater along the beach, I was ready for my run and started from our beach cottage. It was still dark but the headlights of my support vehicle provided me with the much needed light along the cemented road that goes to the National Highway. It was a 9K distance and I made sure that this initial part of my run will be my warm-up!

I adjusted my strides as short but quick in tempo and I was comfortable with the pace. Since I did not have a Garmin Watch, I depended on my hand held Stopwatch with bigger dial and numbers. I strictly followed the Galloway Method where I have to do 2-3 minutes walk after a 15-minute jog. I kept on shuffling making sure that I have a consistent short and quick movement of the feet. In one hour and 15 minutes, I reached the National Highway and it was already almost 7:00 AM.

I stayed on the left side of the road, jogging and walking, making sure that I follow the Run-Walk-Run that I planned to do to conserve my strength on the later part of the day. My plan was to reach Bugallon, Pangasinan which is a distance of almost 70 kilometers from where I started but as I progressed along the road and went through those rolling terrain and the heat of the sun to come, I knew it was just a wish. I thought that a distance of 50 kilometers for the first day was already enough to shake off my legs and observe how my body would react.

Aside from the Galloway Method which I strictly followed, I also made sure to walk those uphill climbs no matter how steep is the climb is. If the road is ascending, it’s the signal and time for me to start my walking break. I did it religiously throughout the whole day. However, if the road is plain and flat, I still follow the 15:3 ratio for my Galloway Method. In my rough calculation, I was running at a pace of 7:30-8:00 mpk which is good for a LSD workout. I took time also to have my pit stops to drink and eat.

I have to drink water every 2 kilometers where my support vehicle is waiting for me as I’ve instructed my support crew to be “leap frogging” me for 2 kilometers along the way. It was a constant and repetitive thing to do to drink a sip of water every two kilometers and it was a “must” in my strategy. For every 1 hour to 1 ½ hours, I have to drink one-half bottle of Gatorade. As for my food intake, I eat anything (Nature Valley Sports Bar, Chips Ahoy Cookies, and ripe bananas) and I don’t have any intention of taking in those Sports Gels. It had been my personal observation that it is better to eat solid foods in this kind of running workout.

As I got nearer to the 35-km mark of the distance that I covered and about 2 kilometers away in reaching the town of Bani, Pangasinan, my left knee started to have pain. I was already running for 4 hours plus. I know this thing will happen as a result of the injury last December of last year. The heat of the sun was also punishing to the body plus the hot breeze/wind on the road were the ones trying to slow me down on the road. I have to walk some more and drink water. Every 3 hours from the start, I’ve been taking in one (1) Tylenol 500-mg tablet just to prevent and anticipate the pain that might crop up from my torn muscles in the past but my left knee just gave way.

After 3 kilometers, I stopped for a brief rest which ultimately became my lunch stop at 11:15 AM. It was a blessing in disguise that the Caltex Gas Station has the amenities of a Rest Area ( a Restaurant, A Garden, Rest Rooms, and Bamboo Cottage) and a Wi-Fi but the Internet connection is still weak though! We stayed here for 3 ½ hours and I was able to sleep and rest after a lunch of Sinigang Na Malaga, Fried Chicken, and Calamares! The owners of the place were very kind and hospitable. Of course, they are Ilocanos. Later, I found out that the place is located in Barangay Banog Norte in Bani, Pangasinan. In Ilocano, “Ban-nog” means “tired”. It’s a fitting description of my present condition during the run!

To be continued.

Still Dark At 5:35 AM at The Beach Area Before The Start

Yes, The Billboard Says It All. Always Believe in Him!

Source of Performance

On August 17, 2010 By kingofpotsIn Food & Dishes, Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Runners' Training, Running1 Comment

My friends, runners and most of my readers would always ask me the same question–where do I get my strength and endurance in running? My best answer to them is Experience. But the truth of the matter is that I get my strength and endurance from my nutrition and strict adherence to the basic principles of endurance training.

In nutrition, I eat anything that will not cause any “gout” attack in any parts of my body. Most of the time, I eat the following fresh foods:

Fresh Meat (Not Processed or Frozen Meat)

Simple But Nutritious (Salmon Belly & Beef Tapa/Beef Jerky)

A Little Of Pinapaitan, Kilawen, & Kalderetta

Now, from these source of food/nutrition, I can get my 40-30-30 diet (carbo-protein-fat) needed for my running performance. The magic word here is “FRESH”!

In my basic training principles, I always think of “progression”; specificity; and recovery. Do I have to explain each of these words again? Okey, I will explain them in my future posts.

Good luck to those athletes participating in the CAMSUR 70.3 Triathlon this weekend!!!

Gerald’s Story: “Into the Volcano”

On August 6, 2010 By kingofpotsIn Food & Dishes, Insights, Jogging, Pictures, Places to Run, Running, Travel, Ultramarathon3 Comments

This is a personal story of Gerald Moore, a friend of July Oconer, on his 3-day stay in the Philippines.

I have some photos and a story now- hope you enjoy!

I checked out of one of the nicest hotels I’ve ever stayed in the Shangri-la – after a buffet breakfast so wide in scope it could easily have covered lunch, dinner, barbecue, gourmet, France, Italy, Hong Kong, Mexico and of course, Manila!

July and I got our last minute supplies in a big supermarket next door, cases of water and boxes of granola bars. I bought a couple ‘Coach’ designer shirts – for about $10 each! Every salesperson called out to me SIR, SIR (sounds like ‘sah’) Almost everyone speaks English well.

Manila is sprawling and impromptu. The central city is clean and pretty Security is everywhere, rifles, dogs and Xray machines. The people don’t seem to care and they don’t know of any threat – that’s just the way it is.

Decorated and sparkling WWII “Jeepneys” and motorcycle sidecar taxis are everywhere. And they have Shakey’s Pizza – haven’t seen that since I was 11 years old. I rode through Bataan Death March country in the back seat of July’s well-customized turquoise Honda Civic northward out of the city of 10 Million bound for Mount Pinatubo.

In 1991, Mt Pinatubo exploded in a climactic strato-eruption that lasted 12 days hours, during that time it ejected enough ash, smoke and sulphur to decrease the entire earth’s atmosphere by 1/2 a degree Fahrenheit. On the same day, Typhoon Yunya struck the island, passing about 75 km north of the volcano. The most violent phase of the eruption, lasted about three hours. Typhoon rains mixed with the ash deposits and caused massive lahars. For 3 years ash circled the globe. If not for close geological monitoring and widespread warning, tens of thousands would have perished. This eruption forced the closure of Clark Air Force Base which had operated continuously as a beneficial, respected and locally valued United States military station since World War II.

On the straight, flat roads around July’s hometown people walk perilously close to speeding traffic late at night, motorcycle sidecar taxis are the primary transportation. Signs say ‘vulcanizing’ (tire re-treading) and ‘Junk Shop open 24 hours’. Beyond the row of buildings and houses that line the road endlessly are soaking wet rice fields.

July found me a comfortable country inn while He and his Fiancé went further into the country to visit and stay with his parents.

We left for Mt Pinatubo at 130am and met people at a couple places along the way traveling through the dark straight roads with flashers on as a convoy of ultramarathoners.

As we neared the starting point we passed the concentration camp where 11000 US and Philippine soldiers were killed at the hands of the Japanese, and at every kilometer along the way, a stone marker memorializing those killed on the march. To this day they find gravesites amongst the rice fields. All these ultramarathoners devote their effort and struggle to the soldiers killed here in many ways. That I knew of the march, had met survivors and ran the Death March at White Sands Missile Range made me an instant family member: Sir Gerald.

The starting point was a small village schoolyard’s covered bandstand with bare light bulbs hanging. Our little convoy filled the yard and runners were getting their gear together on the stage there. The 3 Toyota Landcruisers arrived driven by the Pinatubo Guides and parked facing out. Supplies were being stacked inside – bags and ice chests. I added my case of water to the community chest.

Then the Great Baldheaded Runner arrived in shiny Prius to a round of applause. This is Retired General Jovie Narcise of the Philippine Army whose base includes the area we’d be running in. He’s has nice gear, and is very fit and totally bald. Jonel, the race director, participant and magazine publisher (also bald) gave some cut-off times and last minute advice and then said a very short prayer. Everyone crossed themselves before and after, twice.

We take off walking as the dawn begins to break and the little group of 35 or so streams out of the school yard and up the main road. The road immediately goes into innumerable creek crossings and every single runners’ feet are totally wet throughout the entire 55K. The course is one continuous lahar – a valley that had been filled in by the eroded ash and cinder rock moved by water ejected from the cooling volcano. All the water is warm, a murky tan-grey and running fast in wide shallow sheets. Some of the rocks are so light they actually float with the current.

Most of the surfaces were very similar to running in Calabacillas or Los Montoyas arroyo, except the whole thing is wet and well compacted. We pass poor farmers bringing banana blossoms to market on their ox-drawn carts. For all their squalor they sit their animals nobly and from them they spectate with interest. As we ascend into the lahar, we stop to regroup one last time with the guides to re-supply before going past 20K, because the Land Cruisers can no longer keep up with the runners. The area looks like a barren moonscape inlaid on an emerald forest. Aborigines from a local village gather on the edge of the lahar to wave and shout as we run below them.

The gap in green narrows and becomes deeper and more rocky but we keep a steady brisk pace. The grade becomes steeper and at about 25K, we arrive a several thatched huts, the water flow slows down to a trickle and the trail becomes a narrow cut through dense bush thick with green vines and covered completely in places by umbrella trees joining branches overhead.

Finally we reach a summit and the walls of the lahar open to the tremendous open maw of the crater, steep, jagged and green all around and a great lake fills the bowl with turquoise water – a mile across. Transfixed by the vista, July and I stand in awe – then we quickly descend to the edge of lake and start removing sweat-drenched shoes, shirts, water bags and swim in the warm copper-rich lake. Some of the other runners start showing up and doing the same. We rinse rocks out our shoes.

Rejuvenated and cleansed, we begin the descent, meeting our support crew at the summit. They had come the long way around in Jeeps for re-supply and photos. We split up again as the lahar again becomes mostly water and the runners pick up the pace on the descent. At 42K the sun comes out and we meet our support convoy again – everyone needs water, shade and fuel for the final 13K. We quit praying for sun and start praying for rain. A flood of mixed emotions wells up in me. I’m thoroughly fatigued, constantly measuring the remaining distance and yet elated and energized and wishing it would never end.

At the finish we’re treated to a cold, hand-pumped shower (after which I smell slightly like sulphur – an improvement!) and a regal buffet – in honor of July’s August 1, 40th Birthday. The Philipino Barbecue spread traverses the stage and is crowned by a bouquet of flowers, bananas and Roast Pork replete with the pig’s head, hearty beef skewers, school fish, spinach, lovely rice, halved tomatoes with salted eggs and shrimp paste. Also a special beef stew with rich broth and Oso Buco-style chunks of meat and marrow!

I’m honored to be seated between July and the General and by watching them I learn the technique for eating the stew. For dessert the General brings us each a tree-ripe banana which we peel and eat with a fork.

Getting late, it rains and people start saying goodbye. I grab my gear and again am treated to a seat of honor, riding shotgun in Jonel’s Montero with 4 squished into the back seat. I’m dropped off again in Manila at the foyer of another stunning beautiful and welcoming Hotel.

I’m still feeling good! In fact I’m still on a runner’s high!

Also wondering how to appropriately thank all the people at this special and challenging event.

I shall return.

Gerald W. Moore

Environmental Health and Safety

Fab 68 Dalian, China

Bad Fall @ Mt Pinatubo Express

On August 3, 2010August 3, 2010 By kingofpotsIn Food & Dishes, Insights, Pictures, Places to Run, Runners' Training, Running, Trail Running, Ultramarathon19 Comments

6:00 AM August 1, 2010: 50K Mt Pinatubo Run

During the Awarding Ceremony of the 2010 BDM 102 last March of this year, July Oconer, 4th placer in the 2010 BDM 102 and a consistent participant & sponsor of the said race, requested me if I can organize a Trail Run to Mt Pinatubo. Jonel aka Bugo-bugo also approached me if I can conduct a race from the Barangay Hall of Sta. Juliana, Capas, Tarlac to the Crater of Mt Pinatubo and back to the starting area. I told July and Jonel that the preparations and logistics will have to be well-planned and coordinated. Due to the National & Local Elections last May and the impending change of leadership in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, it was impossible to prepare for an ultra race and implement it in a limited period available in a place where the runners could be only supported by 4 X 4 motor vehicles. In addition, an additional security arrangements with the military elements in the area must be coordinated after coordination is made with the local government of Capas, Tarlac.

Instead of having a race, Jonel and July came up with a fun run and posted the event as “Mt Pinatubo Express” at Facebook which drew a positive response from a lot of interested runners. The 2010 BDM 102 finishers and “veterans”, PAU finishers, and other runners were invited to this event which happens to be conducted on the birthday of July. Preparations and coordination were made by Jonel and updates of the event were posted at Facebook. And there was no reason for us to postpone the event, except if there is a threat of an incoming typhoon or weather disturbance.

At 5:00 AM of August 1, 2010, a group of almost 50 runners, support crew, and guides assembled at the Barangay Hall of Sta. Juliana, Capas, Tarlac. After one hour of logistics preparation, briefing, attending to personal necessities, and a brief prayer for everybody, the fun run started at 6:00 AM.

Runners would run in groups and have initially positioned our 4 X 4 vehicles at the front, middle, and rear. These vehicles served as our mobile Aid Stations where the individual support and supplies of each runner became a general support for everybody. We had our first “pit stop” at Km #6 to refill our hydration belts and systems. We waited for the arrival of the last runner and resumed our run once we account the presence of everybody. Our next stop would be at Km #10.3 and the same “ritual” was done. The group basically re-grouped in every 5 kilometers until we reached the “baseline” at Km #20.

Food and water were abundant. Our support crew who were riding on those 4 X 4 motor vehicles did an excellent job of giving us food along the way and in our “pit stops”. Jonel of FrontRunner Magazine brought with him a professional photographer who took pictures of us during our runs (in action), “re-grouping”, and during our brief stay at the crater. Jonel informed us that the story and pictures of the event will be one of the main features of the magazine’s September-October issue.

After one kilometer of slow run from the Starting Area, we immediately crossed the widest part of the river and we started running the 2nd kilometer with wet running shoes. As soon as our shoes would shed off the water that had been absorbed by the shoes, it was time again to cross another river and this occurrence was repeated. It is possible that we crossed a river for a hundred times during this run. Aside from the lahar/sand and the river crossing, running, walking and jumping on small/big/ boulders of rocks would be our next task before finally reaching the crater of Mt Pinatubo.

Jonel, Nickko, and I were the only “veterans” on this trek to Mt Pinatubo as we joined our first run and trek with the Pinoy Ultra Runners last November 2008. Although the guides walked and ran with us, we were confident that nobody will get lost along the way. Nickko, being the slowest runner among us, became our official “sweeper” and ably supported by one of our 4 X 4 vehicles. After almost two years since we first visited Mt Pinatubo, the landscape had tremendously changed where there are more rocks and big boulders along the river and inclined path towards the crater. We were surprised that the 7-km walk from the “baseline” up to the crater are now full with more rocks and that you need to have more time to select your footing on top of these rocks.

The whole group of runners & support crew reached the crater of Mt Pinatubo at 11:30 AM. We stayed at the crater for a limited period of one hour only. It was enough time for almost everybody to swim or soak their tired bodies in the sulphuric water of the Mt Pinatubo Lake. It was also a time to wash our socks and running shoes from the lahar that entered into them. I was surprised there is a lot of improvement done on the park overlooking the lake. The place is better for the tourists to see and a nice background for photo-ops. The stairs or pathwalk that goes to the lake had been made wider and more-forgiving for older ones, like me! In November 2008 trek, I counted the number of steps to be 125 from the top of the park towards the ground of the lake. Now, they made it into 181 steps!

Big & Small Rocks All Over The Place. Make Your Own Trail

The view and scenery all around the Mt Pinatubo Park was amazing. The people managing this park did a good job to improve the facilities and structures of the place. This is a park that we should be proud of. I hope this park will be maintained and made a good example of eco-tourism in the local government level.

Aside from cleaning our socks and running shoes from lahar/sand and small rocks, we had a simple picnic where we shared each other food brought by each runner. Our packs became lighter as we started to prepare back to where we started. Before we left the Park, we had some group pictures taken by our official photographer!

At exactly 12:30 PM, we started leaving the Park/Crater of Mt Pinatubo. It was a slow descent for the first 2 kilometers as the trail is full of big rocks where it passes along the stream of water coming from the crater. Once we hit the wider portion of the trail, everybody started to run in groups again.

With Jerome & Charlie At The Crater Lake

The run from the crater to the starting area is slightly downhill. My GF 305 recorded a data of 6,600+ feet accumulated ascent/descent and this is the reason why it took us more time to go to the crater than our time when running towards the finish line. The only thing or factor that slowed us in our way back was the heat of the sun during the early afternoon. It was good that we still had barely enough water supply for everybody. There was no danger of any casualty for heatstroke among the runners as I know that the runners had been “veterans” of BDM and PAU races. Plus the fact that we are surrounded with a flowing river where anybody could easily soak his body just in case a runner needs to cool off his body. Actually, I usually dip my running cap on the flowing water and have it wet and wear it on my head during the run towards the Finish area.

And then an accident happened. Along Km #35, I tripped my right foot with rocks along the lahar ground while running at a faster pace and I fell forward on my belly. The fall is really a “big time” experience for me, my first in my running adventures! My right shin bone hit a rock as big as my palm and my skin was cut! I immediately inspected my cut by rubbing my hand on my shin in order to determine if I have a bone fracture. None! My cut was simply bleeding with blood. No cuts on my arms but only bruises. My long-sleeved shirt protected my arms from any wounds. And nothing happened to my face. I walked a few meters towards a stream with clean water flowing on it and cleaned my wound from the blood and sand. I was thinking that I should have worn my compression socks or calf support socks to protect my legs from being wounded by the rocks. I learned a lesson on this event—“bushwacking” is also applicable to rocks and there is a need to wear shin or calf support sock as a protection from wounds due to accidents or falls.

Jerome Cartieller, a BDM 102 veteran and Rey Jimenez, my running partner along Kennon Road during my Adventure Run to Baguio City, came to me to assist and assess my wound. Jerome was an “angel” sent from heaven! He has a complete gear in his pack to include a First Aid Kit! Jerome & Rey cleaned my wound with Betadine and simply covered the wound with a gauze and transparent medical tape. After cleaning and treating the wound, my mind was thinking of getting a ride back to the finish area while I was walking and tried to observe if there was an unbearable pain while moving my legs. I decided to jog a little, felt that there is no pain and resumed my running.

I never quit in any runs or races even if I am injured. I never had any case of DNF in my running career and this particular running event will not be recorded as a DNF for me. So, I ran and brisk walked all the way to the Finish Area. I won over my negative thoughts, the heat of the afternoon sun, and my wound which was bleeding with more blood as I run. It never came into my mind that I am casualty of “Wounded In Action” (WIA) in my running career. But it is better than to be a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal (Wounded In Action Medal) in military operations against the enemies of the state/country. WIA in a military operation is far worse as you’ll never know if your body is still complete or not; or if you can still walk or run after your recovery. What an irony in life!

I reached the Finish Area with an elapsed time of 10:30+ hours to include the one-hour stay at the crater, those numerous “pit stops” & photo-ops along the route, and the time to treat my wound. After two weeks of finishing the Headlands 50-Mile Run, my body was prepared again for this run. I did not feel any soreness and pain on my legs due to the trail running except for the slight pain on my wound and bruises. I think my wound is “telling” me to rest and recover for the whole week this time!

The North Face Rucky Chucky Trail Shoes Sucks!!! Before taking off my running shoes, I inspected The North Face Rucky Chucky Trail Shoes and it is wrecked! The logos on each of the shoe just fell down while I was still at the Km #18 and the soles began to separate from the shoe while I was walking towards the crater of Mt Pinatubo. The shoes’ model name is taken from the Rucky Chucky River of the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run which is specifically located at Mile #78 of the trail route. The name itself symbolizes the WS 100 which is most prestigious 100-mile trail race in the United States and the shoes should carry the same prestige in terms of durability and endurance. I am not saying that the shoes was one of the reasons why I got tripped and fell on the ground during my run. But with the condition of the shoes after a 50K trail run to Mt Pinatubo, I think TNF Philippines should know about this as a feedback from their customer. Catered "Buffet" Party After The Run With The Host, July Oconer After waiting for the last runner to arrive, the group was treated to a catered “buffet” dinner courtesy of the host and birthday celebrant for the day, July Oconer. (Note: It is becoming a tradition to serve a “lechon” during BDM “veterans” get-together party!) In this party, we celebrated also the birthday celebrants (Wilnar Iglesia & Rhodora Cartieller) for the week. It was really a nice carbo-protein-fat recovery meal for all the runners, support crew, and guides. During the dinner, I was able to talk and entertain Gerald who came all the way from Dalian, China and purposely joined us in this trail run. He stayed here in the country for 3 days. Gerald is a running partner of July in China and hails from New Mexico, USA. He is a competitive runner and had finished the Bataan Death March Memorial Marathon held in White Sands, New Mexico every third Sunday of March. He has already made his intentions to bring his wife, relatives and friends for them to experience the next edition of the BDM 102. With Gerald from New Mexico, USA Lastly, I would like to convey my sincerest thanks to July being the generous host & main celebrant of the event; to Jonel for the “snappy” preparations, coordination, and documentation (pictorial); to all the support crew who served us with our food and hydration; and to our “guides” & drivers. And most of all to the Almighty God who gave us a “perfect” weather during the run, protected us from any harm, and for giving us the strength to finish the 50K trail run. See you in the 2nd PAU 65K Run in Ilocos Norte. Share this: Email Facebook X Tumblr Reddit LinkedIn WhatsApp Print Pinterest Like Loading...

Suman

On June 17, 2010 By kingofpotsIn Food & Dishes, Insights, Jogging, Marathon Race, Pictures, Runners' Training, Running7 Comments

I had my long run last Sunday morning and I was able to finish a distance of 25 kilometers. I did not carry my hydration belt or brought with me any sports gel. I brought only a small amount of cash wrapped in small platic bag and tucked inside the small pocket of my running short.

I had already planned out for my pit stops/stores/fastfood chains along the roads of the The Fort, McKinley Hill, Lawton Avenue, and Bayani Road. However, my favorite pit stop is always that small convenience store inside the Philippine Army Golf Course along Bayani Road which is specifically located at Hole #1. My hardcore running buddies know this place.

kinds_pangasinanburi_r12_c9 — Suman From Pangasinan (Google Images)

Whenever I stopped in this place, I usually eat boiled banana, boiled egg, and drink one bottle of Gatorade drinks. However, last Sunday, instead of eating the usual food being displayed, I ate the local suman, two pieces, and drank the usual one bottle of Gatorade drinks. The food I ate and the drinks filled my hungry stomach and I was back on the road to continue my run.

images — Suman Sa Lihiya (Picture From Google Images)

I observed that the suman whose ingredients are glutinous rice, salt and/or sugar, and coconut milk with the Gatorade drinks had given me an extra boost for my run! It could be that the food was enough source for my carbohydrate intake (rice & sugar), protein (coconut milk) and the salty taste (sodium source) for my running workout. I am not a nutritionist but I felt differently as I had more strength for my last 10 kilometers due to the aid of this local food called suman.

It is easy to prepare this kind of delicacy if you have the time but they (cooked/finished product) are also available in malls in Metro Manila. There are so many sites in the Internet that will guide you on how to prepare suman depending on the locality where it is made or sourced.

I still have more time to experiment on the effects of eating suman and how fast I could eat them during my running workouts. This will replace my practice of eating hard boiled eggs and instant oatmeal at the halfway mark in a marathon race. I intend to eat at least one or two pieces of suman every 10 kilometers during the MILO Marathon Elimination on July 4, 2010 which will be prepositioned by my support crew instead of ingesting those expensive sports gels and other usual foods that I take. The suman ingested to the stomach could be heavy but I think it will be the best food for my endurance runs.

If my idea and experimentation will work, I will add suman as one of the foods to be served in my ultramarathon races under the auspices of PAU. Runners could try eating suman also in their running workouts or marathon races and try to observe if it works for everybody.

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