Restarting the Journey

Willi Marathon...

2011-05-31T21:05:00.002+10:00

On Sunday I completed the Williamstown Marathon in 3h 56m... it was a good experience. Conditions were favourable - no wind and not really that cold!
The event commenced on time as it is customary with events organised by Sri Chinmoy. These events are conducted without much fanfare and are well supported by a cast of volunteers.
This was the third time I completed this event in a third consecutive year. I ran it with Kate as she was trying to achieve her first marathon in under 4 hours. Mission accomplished.
So far I have completed 8 marathons; 2 100kms events - Oxfam. One international event - the 2010 Paris - Versailles run, which was a fabulous experience.

Running...continues

2011-05-01T20:13:00.006+10:00

Even though I have not continued posting as once I was regularly doing, running continues. I am doing it for two primary reasons: overall fitness and for maintaining stress levels down as well as it has a social dimension to it.

Having maintained a blog for some time where I recorded milestones it has become a handy point of reference, particularly one wishes to know how I am progressing now compared to the past.

It is with gusto that I say I have maintained a rhythm even though I have not done as the first marathon. Of late I have been able to do a 10 km beach run in under 45 minutes (March 2011). I have also able to run 25kms in 2h05m along the Yarra Boulevard (March).

I also had a run of 33km in 2h48m at a 5m5s pace along the beach in early April.

So the running is going well.

So much happens...

2010-03-23T19:38:00.002+11:00

I cannot believe that a year passed without posting a single message. I would like to say many positive things have occurred since the last posting.

For example, after the 2009 Oxfam Trailwalker, I completed the Williamstown marathon at the end of May. Then, I finished teh Melbourne Marathon in October.

Another significant development is that painting as an activity has flourished. I have been able to put mind and heart into painting things that relate to my past (roots, upbringing, homeland and diaspora).

I am surprised I have managed to fit in so much given the many things I juggle. I suppose I am not any different to any other person who likes doing things.

Next month, I am doing for the third consecutive year Oxfam Trailwalker with my fellow runners.

30 kms ... a nice Sunday run

2009-07-12T12:50:00.002+10:00

Preparations for the 2009 Melbourne Marathon are going well and on schedule. This morning at 6am, Kate and I commenced our usual Sunday long run from Brighton Baths, instead of heading south we went North. We ran all the way along the beach to Kerferd Rd, Middle Park, where we made a turn to go past the Shrine of Remembrance to connect to The Tan track. As we crossed St Kilda Road, Jane joined us and we made our way to the Capital Trail Track (along the Yarra River) where Gina was going to meet us up just before Chapel Street.

The four of us ran together from Chapel Street along the river till we reached Grange Road and we made our way to Toorak Road. We continued along Toorak Road until St Kilda Road, where we farewell Jane who scheduled to run ten kilometres with us. Gina continued with us till we returned to Brighton Baths.

In all, this was a run of 30 kilometres for Kate and I. Amazingly the more we keep doing long runs the easier they get for the legs.

The next long run, 30+kms is scheduled for mid August.

MM - Week 1 - It's only the start...

2009-06-14T21:11:00.004+10:00

Sounds silly but this is how the week was:
Tuesday - Run. Intervals along Coastal Path. 5.30 am start. 8 kilometres.
Thursday - No run... Rescheduled for Friday but it did not happen at the end.

Today, 16.5kms along the Coast and it was a great run. We (i.e. Kate, Gina and I) commenced at 6.30am this morning from Hampton and headed south to Beaumaris. On our way back Jane joined us for the last half an hour. We finish very well, sprinting the last kilometre.

I entered the Melbourne Marathon last Friday. So I am committed. I am getting itchy to do a long run, but I must be patient.

In the meantime, it has occurred to me that sometimes as I venture into the Coastal Path there are so many thoughts that go through my mind. The goal is to share
such thoughts in a more candid way with the eloquence of turning the dialogue (and monologue sometimes) to a challenge as a response.

Another great run!

2009-06-07T21:39:00.002+10:00

After a week's rest, today was the first run after the Sri Chinmoy marathon... As the day says, oh what a feeling... we started at 6.30am from Hampton and headed six kilomtres south towards Rickett's Point, then we commenced our return journey.

In all, 12 easy kilometres in about 70 mins... nice and easy.

2 runners: AC / KB

4th marathon...!

2009-06-04T20:53:00.002+10:00

It is hard to believe that, two months after, completing the 2009 Oxfam Trailwalker, I took part in the Sri Chinmoy Williamstwon marathon, held on Sunday 31 May 2009.

It was a wonderful event where one hundred runners ran an amazing course, starting from the Athletic Centre in Williamstonw and we headed torwards Altona to return to the West Gate Bridge and then complete three loops to Williamstown centre.

I ran the course in 4h and 8mins, together with one of my running buddies, Kt.

BTW - having a conversation with Gaby tonight made me realised how important it is to keeping track of the running milestones. We were able to realise that sometime ago we ran 30kms in 2h30m along the Coastal Path. In a nuthsell, I should make an effort to keeping this journal up-to-date.

Completed Oxfam Trailwalker 2009

2009-04-08T21:53:00.002+10:00

I have to say that we completed the 2009 Oxfam Trailwalker Melbourne in a good time - faster than our 2008 performance by almost 3hours and ahead of our schedule.
We remained on track most of the stages and by the time we reached Checkpoing 6 Graham Codling we were on the Warburton Trail - meaning it was all flat with the exception what was ahead in the last leg - a steepy ascent.

Running challenges for 2009

2009-01-04T18:01:00.002+11:00

It has been a while since the last post...

For 2009 my running goal is to compete for the second time in the Oxfam Trailwalker
an endurance event of 100 kilometres through Melbourne's outskirts. We are aiming at completing the event in 17 hours - in 2008 we completed the same course in 19 hours. This event is in 12 weeks and 5 days.
I will see how I continue to perform in terms of running and this will decide whether I go for my fourth Melbourne Marathon, which is scheduled for the second Sunday of October.

Passage to Australia

2008-06-19T22:11:00.002+10:00

This week has been Refugee Week. Worldwide there are now about 65 million. The Age published today a story of three migrants, of different backgrounds, who are living in Australia and who the newspaper considered were successful in their endeavours.
The story can be read here:
http://www.theage.com.au/national/passage-to-australia-20080618-2stt.html?page=-1

To know more about the situation of refugees today, click in the link below:
http://www.un.org/depts/dhl/refugee/

Team # 424 Angels and Demons

2008-04-19T15:39:00.001+10:00

Oxfam Trailwalker – Melbourne, April 11-12 2008
Time: 19h 13 min
Position: 49th.

Introduction
These notes are a recount of how we approached the Oxfam Trailwalker event, held on the weekend of April 11-13, 2008, starting from Jells Park in Wheelers Hill and finishing in Wesburn in the Yarra Valley. This is an annual event organised by Oxfam and this was the fifth time the event was ever held in Melbourne. There were 658 teams that made to the starting line.

Our preparations for the event started in December 2007 once we made our minds we were going to take part in the event. We had our first training session on December 16, 2007, when we ran from Churchill National Park to Lysterfield. We were feeling optimist and capable of tackling the 100 kilometres as Jane, Kate and Angel had completed the 2007 Melbourne marathon. David joined the team in mid January 2008; he had done the Kokoda Trail in the first half of 2007. Our plan was to complete the 100-kilometre challenge in 19 hours and anticipated to finish at 02.30am.

Angel approached the event as not being as hard as a marathon – where there is greater pressure to perform, unaffordable to stop and racing against time. The other members of the team also approached the event with optimism; feeling competent in completing it.

Pre-departure arrangements
Our arrangements for the event were partially derailed on the Tuesday morning (7th of April) when William told Angel he would not be able to be part of the support crew. The same night we were having a team meeting to make our final arrangements. Angel was visibly worried, as this development would occupy some time to sort out. A replacement was found in Victor who keenly volunteered.

Our support crew for the event were: Di Synott and Vicky Horner (friends of Jane), who were on the track during the day. Gabriel Mena and Victor del Rio (friends of Angel) were on the track from the mid afternoon till night time.

On the Tuesday evening we met at Arabesque in Elsternwick to sort out all necessary things (clothes, bags, lights, meals, weather and so forth). We had dinner there and we shared two bottles of red wine. We were feeling very enthused about the event. We also received from Jane the tops we purchased for the event.

A CD compilation of songs earlier on provided by every team member was given to everyone. There are 21 songs that were transferred to iPod and, for years to come will be a fond memory of the event.

Getting there / Checking in
On the Friday morning, David collected everyone from their home – we arrived to the starting point basically an hour before. We registered without problems and everything went smoothly. We purchased coffees and had time to put cream on our feet to mitigate the emergence of blisters.

Through the speaker system we learnt that the event was delayed by ten minutes to 7.10am – this gave us time to go to the toilets for the last time and do any late change to our gear.

We made it to the start queue about 7.05 am and we aligned almost half way – when we went past the start point Angel’s watch was 7.11am. We started running slowly and having to zig zag a bit – in retrospect I would say we started faster than anticipated - this is an issue in any event as the crowd seems to push everyone to go faster than planned. So, discipline is very important to stay focused on any planned pace.

Start to Checkpoint 1 (Churchill Park) 12.5km
We ran most of the course in this section as planned, albeit to say we did not stay together for most of this section as there were so many people on the track. Probably this is also a reflection that we did not train as a full team often enough to know everyone’s racing pace. The only difficulty we had in this section of the track was when Jane’s tape hindered her progress and required intervention. Support crew was called in and Jane replaced her shorts for ¾ pants in Stud Road (kilometre 8). Invariably at the start of any race emotions run high and tension tends to be visible. Jane had tears as she changed shorts. Later on Jane said to us she expected everyone to get emotional at kilometre 80. David and Angel used this opportunity to do some stretching. Whilst we waited we talked to the two marshals who were giving directions – they wanted to take in the event but were unable to do so as the spots were quickly taken so they volunteered to the event as a replacement.

Just metres before the finish of this section we had a quick stop as we saw our support crew who had some nuts and drinks ready for us. I took the first salt tablet then and that proved to be a wise move. Over the course of the event we all took salt tables – about 6 per person. This stop lasted about 8-10 minutes. Then we went through the first Checkpoint – had done the first 12.5 kms. We stopped again for drinks and had a banana – this time probably we stopped for about 5-7minutes. We were delighted to see that at every checkpoint there were water and food stations. One of the girls told us we were placed 31st.

Churchill National Park to CP2 (Lysterfield Lake) 9Km
Off we went walking this time. We started to run once we gathered enough energy. As we had agreed we would walk through the hills so we walked, as there was one coming. We talked about our first training session, which commenced from this checkpoint. Our only night training session also commenced there so it was nice to see the area during daylight. We stopped for one photo three kilometres into the run when we saw the sign pointing to Lysterfield and Churchill Park. So we would have a picture of this place every time we had been there. By this stage there were some teams that were clearly in front and some others who were falling behind. We never done the full length of this section so it was pleasing to cover some new territory.

Unfortunately we had to detour from the main road to a minor track. David and Kate missed the entry to the small track and Jane and Angel who were running a few metres behind called them in and we continued. We were all cursing the fact that we entered this dirty track that had so many obstacles and hindered our smooth progress. Once we returned to the main track we noticed that some teams had not taken the minor track.

When we arrived to the Lake, Di and Vicky were waiting for us with sandwiches, cakes, sweets and drinks. They were a godsend and their jovial company made a difference. We stopped for about 20-25 minutes. We started to tend to our injuries and some of us changed socks. During this section we ran through the flat bits and certainly we were running when we made it to Checkpoint 2. Apparently we were placed 34th.

Lysterfield Lake to CP3 – Grants Picnic Ground (13.8Km)
When we left our support crew in the picnic area of the Lake we went through the Checkpoint and then we took the track where Jane and Angel commenced their infamous run on that wet and miserable morning last December. We ran from this point to Wellington road. The area looked not so foreign anymore. As we crossed Wellington Road, 3.7km into this section, we stretched for about two minutes and then we continued. At this point in time we recognised some of the runners we had seen previously - we greeted them and have a recurrent conversation over the next 10 kilometres. We continued to mix running and walking with relative ease. We had a toilet stop in Birds Land Reserve (7.3km mark) then we knew were not far away from our first real test – uphill Broadway Street. As we approached the start of Broadway we started to walk and kept pace with other teams and we made it to the top of the street without major hesitation and we took the concrete steps and noticed that the path had been repaired. It was easier to talk and the conditions were not treacherous at all. In no time we approached Belgrave Station and we went under the bridge and then we tackled the ascending track that took us to Grants Picnic – we walked to the Checkpoint in Grants Picnic Ground to be greeted by our support crew. We checked in first and then we returned to have sandwiches and drinks with the crew. Jane and Angel left with them the camelpaks and simply carried a 600ml bottle of water. At this checkpoint we did not verify in what position we stood.

Grants Picnic Ground to CP 4 Olinda Reserve (11.78Km) – 46.5 Km cumulative
We farewelled our support crew knowing that we will be tackling the section we knew best and what we considered the most challenging section – where we have focused our training. As we crossed Monbulk road and entered the Clematis Track we knew we were progressing with confidence – we felt upbeat and made swift progress and in no time we reached the Sherbrooke Picnic Ground and went past the magnificent eucalypt tree that we had seen several times before. As I write these notes I must say I cant remember how we felt when we crossed the Alfred Nicholas garden – I think we were focused on what was coming ahead… Hackett Road. Psychologically we must have felt good as there is no distinctive recollection of this section. When we left the gardens and got into the Sassafras Creek Track, Kate missed a step and landed flat on the ground – a few minutes later she reported she was having trouble with one of her legs. Angel reminded her that it was around the same location where she had trouble in the same leg on that long session last February. When we saw a race marshal at the intersection of Sassafras and Peerick Creek roads, we asked the marshal for a floor mat so Kate could stretch. We all took advantage to stretch a bit then – this stop lasted approx 7 minutes. Then we started to walk again knowing that Hackett road was just around the corner.

We caught with the team that David called the Barbies – two of the girls were struggling. We saw them commencing fast and we caught up with them at several times up to then. This team and others (e.g. Canberra Boys, the Chinese, et al) we kept seeing each other during the course of the event. When we reached the top of Hackett Road Kate and Jane were talking to those girls who were having hip troubles. We continued towards Olinda and we walked the remaining 2.5kms to the Checkpoint. As we reached the checkpoint we saw our support crew who had laid out on a portable table a variety of sandwiches and drinks and were ready with the first aid kit.

Olinda Reserve to CP 5 Silvan Reservoir (11.78Km) – 54 Km cumulative
When we checked in and out at the Checkpoint we learnt that Robin Lennon’s team were in front of us by at least 12 kms. Our position had then dropped to mid forties. Angel changed runners and socks at this checkpoint and tended to his first blister in the right foot. The girls also attended to their legs and we all applied Vaseline. The only left remaining carrying the Camelbak was David. We stopped here for about 20minutes. We have agreed we were to run all the way to Olinda, as it was a steady descend most of the way. This is the section that in our long training session back in February Angel remembered the song ‘Do you know the way to San Jose’ – this is a very picturesque area. As we reached the halfway mark (at around 3.15pm) we stopped for a photo. This was around 3.20pm in the afternoon. Angel spoke via mobile to his three children who were leaving school at that time – this was an invigorating moment. David also called his children a few minutes later.

In this section we kept changing places with various teams but one team in particular got our attention due to its unusual name - ‘Two Poms, A Greek and a Yank’. They registered under the name of “Two Poms, a Yank and a Greek at the Rear” but Oxfam disallowed such a tactful name. They finished the event in front of us – an hour and a half earlier. About kilometre 5 in this section there was a steep descent on an open space and this was an opportunity to walk backwards so the calves could stretch a bit. There were so many teams doing the same.

Not long to go to the end of this section the girls had a toilet stop and the two boys had opportunity to stretch a bit and then we continued to run gently until we reached Silvan Reservoir Park, when we saw the evening support crew (Gabriel and Victor) who were there to greet us in a very euphoric manner – Latin style: loudly! Di and Vicky were also there Reaching this Checkpoint was very emotional and comforting at the same time. This was the moment of changeover of support crew. Di and Vicky were the best support crew team – gentle, diligent and very professional; they received so many calls on the day with our multiple requests. The support crew took some pictures of the team and a few minutes later we departed by walking up the hill. Before we left we thanked the day crew and we hugged them – a sad moment. This stopover lasted approximately 15 minutes.

Silvan Reservoir to CP 6 Graham Colling Reserve (8.5Km) – 63 Km cumulative
We were not quiet sure where to go to – we glanced around and we saw some people walking through the gates so we decided to follow them. Up the road we saw a marshal who steered us in the right direction. We started to run but then we decided to walk as we approached a hill. We walked for the next hour or so – this was a section where I felt we slowed down too much and we did not take advantge of the descents for a gentle run. There was a long stretch along Kalamara where we felt so isolated – it was getting dark and the area was rather unhospitable. For a long while I was trying to make contact with the evening crew to no success. The state of isolation felt accentuated because of no mobile signal – Telstra network unavailable.

This section went for ever and ever. We felt deceived in this section because we thought that once we crossed Warburton Hwy we were close to the checkpoint – little did we know that we were approximately 2.5 kms away. By that stage we were running and Angel went in front to scout for the Checkpoint – the sign was not very visible. Once we saw the sign we detour and we were not sure how to proceed when we heard some familiar voices – the evening crew spotted us and they guided us through the Checkpoint. Prior to departure we
made arrangement to have warm food at this point. Gaby and Victor had minestrone soup and crusty bread ready for us. At this checkpoint Jane had a massage; we changed clothes and socks; got lights out. We had a brief conversation with the girls that we saw struggling in Hackett Road – they said that after they took Nurafen given by our day support crew their pain went away.

Graham Colling Reserve to CP 7 Worri Yallock (13Km) – 76 Km cumulative
Before we departed we arranged for Gaby and Victor to meet us at CP7 and we requested for hamburgers, fish and chips for dinner. We also told them we were expecting to reach CP 7 by 9pm – certainly not before that time. We estimated it would take us a minimum of two and a half hours to get there. We traced our steps to the Warburton trail and we got there we turned left. We left the CP with other teams that we will continue to swap places over the next 13 kilometres. Our approach was to run 5 minutes and walk 10 minutes and Kate assumed the role of being the time keeper. Oh God! Kate’s light was the best – it shone all along for the next 24 kilometres! We called it the Gucci Light torch. We caught up with one of the teams that went in front of us when we left the CP – their approach was different to ours – they ran the first seven kms and were puffed out when we left them behind around kilometre 10. I kept telephone contact with our evening crew who went to have dinner at the local pub – they thought they had more time and they were very surprised when I told them we were at CP 7… Fortunately after checking in/out we went to First Aid to attend blisters. Jane went first and she had an expression of agony and uncertainty. This stop was marred by one incident we witnessed. One participant who was receiving medical attention was dumped by his team, as there were doubts about his fitness to continue. I heard him saying – with sadness – “I will not hold it against you” to the rest of his team. The three team members farewelled him and he was left in the stretcher, sitting straight with the heart rate monitor strapped to his upper body. After the podiatrist attended to Jane’s blisters she feared she could not continue – but knowing Jane she will turn a negative into a positive. It was the turn for Kate to receive foot attention and then Angel followed. David did not need any first aid attention. He was restless in any case – just dying to march on.

When we left the first aid room, we joined Gaby and Victor who had brought the biggest parcel of fish and chips. This stop lasted for about 45 minutes. It was here where we learnt that the first team had already crossed the finish line – Team Mutley won the event on a record time of 11h 26m.

Woori Yallock to CP 8 – Millwarra (14.5Km) – 90.5 Km cumulative

When we left the CP we were delayed to take another layer of clothing with us. As soon as we returned to the Warburton Track we ran for a while and then we walked the rest. We felt energised after the fish and chips although we were somewhat disillusioned we stopped for too long. This was the only occasion when I felt there was tension in the team – tiredness was getting the best of us. Somehow once we hit the road we felt more comfortable and we pressed on with the mission to finish on the time we anticipated. We were walking fast; probably it took us approximately over 40 minutes to get to the point where we crossed
Warburton Hwy at Launching Place. After that there was a long – very long – stretch which felt it went for ever and ever – made worse by the fact that we had no clear idea how far we have to go to reach Milwarra.

I have to say that during some stretches along all the course we did not travel the four of us together but were in pairs. Kate and Jane carried iPods whereas David and Angel did not.

Let’s return to something we said when we described our first section. We went pass kilometre 80 without anyone getting emotional; Jane did not utter emotions until kilometre 98 – but we shall cover that in a minute. We held our emotions pretty tight and the imminence of conquering our final destination was the most lasting point in this quest.

We had the sound of cows mooing for a while in this second last leg. We could hear it from the distance. There was nothing else worth noting in this section albeit to say it was dark and we did not have any other group within sight. When we reached Milwarra various marshals greeted us with applauses and gave us directions to the Checkpoint. This checkpoint was the one where we were quickest – in and out in a flash. We were told our position was 61st. Upon leaving this checkpoint we saw the arrival of other teams we had passed earlier on, including another team who we saw in the First Aid room in Checkpoint 7.

Millwarra to Finish – Wesburn (9.5Km) – 100 Km cumulative
Before we left this Checkpoint Kate phoned Malcolm so he could drive to Wesburn
to collect us. We departed around 11.00 pm and we thought it would take us approximately one and a half to two hours to reach the final destination. We were enthused and feeling confidant although weary – the signs were visible: our facial expressions were long and stretched. The chattiness was gone. We crossed the highway and we returned to the Warburton track and continued along the next two kilometres on a flat course. Upon leaving the Warburton track we took the Backstairs track which was the start of a very long and oppressing uphill experience. We crossed a small bridge and we arrived to Dolly Grey Park and then a very steep climb followed for one kilometre. This was a very narrow path. Jane fell at one point in time but fortunately we were able to find a stick so she could have some comfort for the reminder of this section. At the top of the first hill, Angel reminded the others there was another steep climb to come – he was dismissed. Silence reigned with the team for the next few minutes. We felt we had conquered the worst – but little did we know this was a short lived situation because after a steep descent there was a humongous ascent which went on for another kilometre. As we approached this steep ascent with such trepidation we heard noises coming from behind. It was another team who was marching as if they were on military training – someone accompanied them, on a mountain bike, giving them precise and encouraging orders. Just imagine the sound of the marching in the middle of Mountain Joe. One of our team members muttered words to the effect of alerting us that they were overtaking us – they went pass us as we were struggled up the hill. Powerless we continued our slow and methodical progress. Jane was holding to her stick with such efficiency giving her critical support at that time.

During our second last hill ascent, Jane uttered some undecipherable words which prompted Angel to respond promptly– don’t stop, just walk. Jane vested her frustration as she made the stick disappear in the middle of the bushes. Kate and David were marching a few metres in front unaware of Jane’s last pour of emotion.

When we reached the top we turned right and we knew then we were not that
far away to the finish… then we came to a T-junction and we turned right again. At
this point in time we heard cheers – the team that overtook us had finished. We knew then we were only minutes away but we could not speed up because we had a steep descent, we walked with caution and concentrated hard to follow the path which was not very well identified. Eventually we made it and for the last two metres we run and run till we crossed the finish line. Kate sped off as she saw Malcolm - euphorically Angel followed her and they crossed the line; barely two seconds later David and Jane did the same.

Angels and Demons made history – finishing the 2007 Oxfam Trailwalker in 19 hours and 13 minutes. We went to the checkpoint desk and we received our certificates of completion.

The official result is that we finished on position 49th overall. Of those 658 teams that made it to the start, only 435 finished the event as a team of four. 338 walkers out of 2672 who started the event retired at various times.

At the end of the day we achieved our goal – take part in the 100 kilometre challenge as well as fundraise funds to support the work of one of Australia’s most cherished non-government aid organisations.

Post event conditions
We all pulled relatively well after the event. It is natural that tiredness, sore legs and knees were in order. The most common injury was the blister. Last weekend was a time to rest. No running so far this week.

What’s the next challenge has been the question pondering a few people’s mind. To say the least, there is always the Melbourne Marathon. Who knows whether there is a repeat of the trailwalker – just to achieve a better time. We have been so happy this week. As time will go by we will be treasuring those moments with such fondness. Our families were happy to see us return in high spirits and in good health.

2nd training session – Lysterfield Lake to Olinda Reserve – 26 kms

2007-12-23T17:00:00.000+11:00

It was pouring before we knew it. By the time we started our car ascend to Olinda our visibility was very limited. Fortunately, we managed to drop the first car in Olinda and then we headed strait to Lysterfield Lake – more than 20kms away. Jane and Angel had no idea what was to come; it was still dark so no one would register anything in particular.

Jane and Angel started their one-way 26kms run/walk just before 6am and, probably 300 metres into our second training session, the misty rain turned heavier. In reality for the next 17 kms it was like that at various times.

Last week we left the story before we could reach the Lysterfield Lake so today we simply started from Checkpoint 2 (to reach Checkpoint 4 – Olinda Reserve) but still did not see the Lake – however we still had the satisfaction that at various times kangaroos kept us company, just like last week.

We run our first three kilometres with such ease since it was relatively flat and the rain manageable. By the time we reached the Birds Land Reserve we were just wet – not in the philosophical sense but in the real sense. There was nothing dry in our bodies. Fortunately there was a shelter and we made a technical stop so we could examine our maps. We continued after a few minutes rest and, at that point in time it did not really matter if we stepped in a paddle – our feet were so wet that we felt we could jump into any of the creeks that were streaming the 36 militres of rain of the past 24 hours. However we had a mission to accomplish for the day, conquer the hardest terrain of the Oxfam Trailwalker Challenge.

When we reached Belgrave, Jane had reminiscences of her Puffing Billy race a few months ago. Seeing Jane so enthused when we crossed the railway track is a reminder that the memory is such in that even in hard conditions like today we still manage to express our fondest recollections of the things that bring us joy.

For the first 14 kilometres we did not see a soul at all. We saw runners when we were resting and having an energy gel in Grants Picnic Ground. After we will runners and walkers intermittently.

By the time we were going through the Sassafras Creek we were feeling confident of our epic, but (as there are always buts in any epic) little did we know that after that the biggest challenge will appear in front of us like many things in life – unexpectedly. Hackets Road appeared after a turn and we had to go up and up and up for what appeared to be an eternity. This is steepest section of all – made worse by the rain and, after a relatively calm sector another steep section emerges in Old Road and Olinda –Monbulk Road… In brief: our hearts pumped so hard for more than kilometre in Hackets Road and again after two kilometres. At one stage, just past the ‘For Evergreen Nursery’ Angel said to Jane the negative thoughts are just there: Angel wanted to quit. Albeit to say, in Jane’s world quitting does not exist.

We are wiser today in that we have to stage our energy depletion and uptake if we wish to walk / run 100 kilometres in April 2008. Today’s photos are a testimony of a huge challenge in adverse conditions.

After 4 hours and 40 minutes and against the elements, Jane and Angel completed their walk. Kate could not keep us company today. Certainly on Christmas day we will eat, drink and be merry like no other day.

We would like to wish you all a very happy festive season. Thank you for your support and words of encouragement.

BTW - the amount of rain for the past three days in the area we covered today exceeded 110mm, according to the park ranger.

Oxfam Trailwalker – First training

2007-12-16T18:43:00.000+11:00

We could not have asked for a better start -
Yesterday rain brought relief to the summer haze.
Today, Churchill National Park greeted us in perfect conditions.

At sunrise we set to our first training session.
Here we come to our
Oxfam Trailwalker challenge.

It all began with a timely perfection
- Synchronisation; harmony and, a happy birthday cheerio
to one of our team members.

We leaped to the track one and one and one
going so meticulously as a team we discussed life matters;
pondered the readability of the map
and, most importantly, pondered our fitness.

Invariably we stopped talking fitness and life matters.
We enjoyed the landscape and our
passing encounters with kangaroos.

We conquered Churchill National Park,
with its morning splendour
and the solitude of
the ridges surrounding the outer suburbs.

We followed the path cheerfully,
tackling the hills with candours esteem.
Nothing stopped us,
not even one unavoidable detour at one critical intersection
– (a vandalised sign) –
made us break the allegory of a morning bush run.

Just before we reached the Lysterfield Lake
we turned back, time was ticking away.
By every minute our confidence grew,
knowing our spirits will rise
on time for the challenge that matters
sixteen weeks away.

Today we let our fears disappear
and acknowledged the Wurundjeri people
for preserving such a beauty.

A new challenge: Oxfam Trailwalker Melbourne

2007-12-15T19:57:00.000+11:00

This week our team got accepted by the organisors of the Oxfam Trailwalker Melbourne, to be held in April 13-14, 2008.

The Oxfam Trailwalker is a 100 kilometre endurance walk, starting from Jells Park to Wesburn Park.

I am doing all this because a friend convinced me that this was a good idea. The purpose of the Oxfam Trailwalker is to raise money for Oxfam Australia, which works in 29 countries across East Asia and South Asia, Southern Africa, the Pacific and Indigenous Australia, in partnership with local communities to overcome poverty and injustice. For many years I have been supportive of this organisation and its predecessor (Community Aid Abroad), in particular when it had a focus on Latin America.

I will post more details later on. In the meantime... Feliz Navidad.

Two Melbourne Marathons - 2007 and 2006

2007-11-05T22:09:00.000+11:00

All done folks... Completed the 2007 Melbourne Marathon but not with a good finish but nonetheless I can say I have done two marathons... After the 2006 Melbourne Marathon the euphoria was great and this year's euphoria was great but somehow tarnished by injury.

Entering the MCG... that was a very special moment.

Someone said to me that the second marathon is disappointing after all the hyper of the first. In part I agree with that. In part I disagree because along the way I learned a lot about life and applying discipline to lots of things in life.

Melbourne Marathon: after weeks of preparations

2007-10-06T14:59:00.000+10:00

It all comes to what happens in one single spring morning. My injury has not gone away and I am not turning away from the challenge that lies ahead.
El Sindicato is at the Melbourne Marathon again. Gabi, Alexis and Angel are going for a second time and we are all having one kind of injury.

Ps - Had a wonderful land trip to Sydney with the boys... Taking three days to get there and stopping in several places: Euroa, Mansfield, Wangaratta, Hoolbrok and Goulburn.

Ned Kelly's tree, Mansfield.

Hammy hammy - not so misterious RSI

2007-09-20T21:40:00.000+10:00

When you think you had a successful training period, which spanned over several months and taking all sorts of precautions - from ensuring running shoes are the right caliber, optimal running socks, adequate stretching, to wearing skins, etcetera etcetera. Then you decide t go to a routine physio visit to discover that there is an injury, all of a sudden you realise you are just another bloody mortal, illusionist runner. Well, two and a half weeks to go to the Melbourne Marathon I am now realising that all that optimal training has got stuck.

Bloody pain in the right leg. Anti inflam. Think something else to get pain go away.
Swift thoughts
Swear softly gently and loud if necessary
Damm all that stupid RSI
Two weeks to go
Oh mercy

Enough complaining - it's not going to take me anywhere.

Tomorrow morning I am beginning a journey to Sydney with the two boys. Our first stop is going to Euroa, then Mansfield and return to the Hume and stop in Glenrowan. The idea of visiting Kelly's country convinced Sebastian and Felix of the merit of having a slow and easy journey. Our anticipated arrival in Sydney is Sunday so not a bad proposition to make the journey in three days and stopping in different locations. Whilst in Sydney we are going to be in the North Shore and keep our fingers crossed for good weather. Overall ten days of adventure and boys bonding!

This will bring me back on time to the final preparations for the Melbourne Marathon. Keep my fingers crossed that hammy improves. Not longer the expectation of an improved time - just making it to the finish line.

A sympathy tear for Qian - A very sad tragedy masked with media bias and spiced with turmoil and frugality along the investigative chain.

Feeling upbeat

2007-08-30T22:09:00.001+10:00

For the past few months I have religiously run on Tuesday and Thursday mornings for what I call a maintenance run - either do some fast training, tempo or simply take things easy. The mornings have started with a 5am rise to be out of the door by 5.15 am to collect another fellow runner. Then I have also done the usual Sunday morning run - basically running along the Coastal Path... a very enjoyable experience indeed.

This morning there was no running partner so I decided to start from home and go through various streets of Brighton (Hampton St, then Dendy St until I got to Beach and then return back again). This morning's run totalled 10 kms in exactly 48minutes...! I just compared same result from a year ago at The Tan in 47 minutes, not bad after considering that today's run included some prolonged elevation - not quiet like feeling exhausted but enough to feel satisfied with a good workout.

I am feeling confident that my training so far is bringing some consistency - basically same performance as last year but without injury (suffered from shin splints last winter).

For the next few weeks it is a matter of working on the mental dimension for the race and not getting worried of those negative thoughts that emerge after being on the road beyond two hours.

On a more trivial matter... I had lunch today at one of my favourite city restaurants.
To my surprise my booking was not registered but upon our arrival the waiter greeted me with such enthusiasm and shaking hands that we ended up getting what I consider the best table in the restaurant... at the balcony. This is the beauty of being a regular to places worth visiting.

Melbourne Marathon, Bring it on!

2007-08-29T21:48:00.000+10:00

I have not posted for a while so here is a brief update. I continue preparing for the Melbourne Marathon which will take place on the first Sunday of October. So it is now about five weeks to go.

My training has gone well and I look forward to the day and finishing at the G. It is amazing that a year I was so hesitant about whether I will make it to the start line. This time, there is no shin splints or any fears - albeit to say I remain cautious about what the day will bring.

Last Sunday I went for my longest run - a 36 kilometre adventure from North Brighton to Mordialloc along the Coastal Path and back again to the same starting point - in 3 hours and 38 minutes, including stoppage time for drinking water, stretching and farewell my fellow runners who were running shorter distances than me. In all it was an interesting experience which I will treasure for the next five weeks.

The most important aspect I am focusing on is the mental strength to continue running and blocking all the negative thoughts that start emerging when I am running longer than two hours. I have said to fellow runners that it is easy to run ten, twenty, but one is covering territory that goes beyond 25kms I start feeling not so much a sense of boredom but questioning why I bother running. Somehow I find the energy and the ability to get some positive thinking into my head and go beyond the point of stopping.

I am particularly pleased when I stop to drink water and then resume running - there is not a slight pain or agony like last year. This is something I treasure so much right now.

For the past few weeks I have been running with two fabulous runners - Kate and Jane, who started running about ten months ago and they have been so dedicated that they have enrolled for the Melbourne Marathon.

But also my other two fellows runners and close friends (members of El Sindicato), Gabriel and Alexis, have enrolled for the marathon.

The fellow runners do not stop there. Rodrigo, another member of El Sindicato, has enrolled for Half Marathon. Another good friend, Mark, has also enrolled for the Half and he has been training solidly for the past six weeks.

That's all folks!

Hasta luego!

Life is good...

2007-08-02T00:05:00.000+10:00

Just in case: MM # 747

Training going well, no injuries. Last Sunday I ran 30 kms along the Coast Path.

Life is pretty good and plenty of activities with very little time to blog regularly... C'est la vie. Asi es la vida.

Godness me... an early Sunday morning run

2007-07-15T11:30:00.000+10:00

At 6.30 this morning, I met my usual two Bayside running partners for the long Sunday run. We started the run with two additions who kept us company for the first 40 minutes. We started from Martin St, Brighton and we headed to Black Rock in the dark, and we hardly saw runners for the first hour. As a group we had the footpath to ourselves and this very good. There was not much wind going south but on our return we had the wind against but we managed to keep a better.

During the conversation of our run, Jane managed to convince Kate to run the full instead of the HM this coming October. Jane managed to convince another of the runners instead of focusing on ten kms to work towards the HM.

After we returned to our starting point, Kate left us and Jane and I continue for an additional 5 kms. She finished very strong and with lots of confidence of having done two long run in consecutive Sundays. After that, I ran by myself for an additional 3 kms so I had a total of 28 kilometres today. A very positive result.

Running goes on

2007-07-10T22:47:00.000+10:00

Ah! ah! ah! A very long time since last post. There have been so many things that have changed but the main thing is that I have continued with, well, despite all other things happening, running. Overall in June I ran for a total of 163 kilometres and so far this month I have managed to run 25 kms in one single session. So I am on schedule to run 30kms by the end of the month.

Initially I wanted to do the Princess Hill run this week end but i have decided against so I can go and for 27kms running along the Coastal Path.

Off to bed now so I can get up early and go for a very early morning run. This morning I was up running at 5.30 am - imagine it was so foggy and a meagre 4degrees but had an enjoyable run with my former neighbour and another runner. We are all training for the MM and HM this October.

Adios!

Running with young Felix

2007-04-30T20:25:00.000+10:00

For the past few weeks, I have religiously ran on Monday evenings but today I made the exception because Felix, 6yo, wanted to run with daddy. So I had to rush from Downtown to get home before 6pm so we could go together to the Duncan McKinnon Reserve, where he wanted to go training. Obviously I lowered my expectations from running 10kms around the Princess Park to about one lap (400mts), to my great surprise not only he ran one full lap but we did three extra 100mts sprints... a good training session.

Our 400m lap was an easy one for me but one of immense joy for Felix who not only did one very good lap without stop there was not a sis or older brother compiting with him - just him and daddy. For a few days he was bugging me he wanted to go running with daddy. Yesterday he wanted to come with me to The Tan but preferred to stay with the babysitter.

Anyway, today's session was a very fulfilling and a special one. Worth more than any other regular run, had the greatest of all company.

I finish April with the best mileage ever. Now May is not going to be so good... a move of house will force me to put my energy and effort elsewhere.

Hasta luego!

Best ever running month

2007-04-29T12:38:00.000+10:00

Runs since last post:

Monday, 23 April, Brighton-Elwood, 8 kms

Tuesday, 24 April, The Tan, 11 kms

Wednesday, 25 April, Middle Brighton-Sandringham, 10.5kms

Thursday, 26 April, Middle Brighton-Sandringham, 10.5kms

Sunday, 29 April 2007, The Tan, 16 kms

This month: 174.5 kms

There is no doubt that April has been the best e-v-e-r month in terms of building distance. I accumulated a good distance by consistently running 4 times per week and running longer distances once a week.

Today's run were four laps around The Tan plus the extra distance to ensure I covered 16kms. We ran with the rain, which has been a blessed to our dry land. At the start there were not many people around but as time went by there were more people.

After the run, we met for breakfast at our usual place in Domain Road.

Briefly II

2007-04-21T18:27:00.000+10:00

Runs since last post:

Monday, 16 April, Princess Park, Carlton, 8 kms

Tuesday, 17 April, The Tan, 8 kms

Wednesday, 18 April, Middle Brighton-Sandringham, 10.5kms,

Saturday, 21 April, Middle Brighton-Sandringham, 10.5kms

This month: 119 kms

One of the best runs I ever had was last Sunday's. It was in the evening and my return from Half Moon Bay was on the dark and there was a nice wind and the sea was my good companion and the vipe a very pleasant autumn evening.

Making good progress consolidating my runs and legs feeling good. All positive.

Briefly...

2007-04-15T21:46:00.000+10:00

Runs since last post:

Tuesday, 3 April, 6 kms – Brighton-Elwood

Thursday, 5 April, 8 kms – Brighton

Monday, 9 April, 10 kms – Brighton Baths-Hampton (return)

Thursday,12 April, 10 kms - Brighton Baths-Hampton (return)

Friday, 13 April, 11kms - Brighton Baths-Hampton (return)

Sunday, 15 April, 15 kms – Brighton Baths-Half Moon Bay (return)

This month: 82 kms

So far time has been rather scarce to keep the blog up to date. Running has becoming a rather irregular activity in recent weeks. Rest of April will continue same and probably by mid-to-late-May I shall start getting more stable in terms of what days and distance I run.

I am organising a residential move and this includes purchasing furniture... Absolutely exciting but exhausting.

A naughty runner

2007-04-01T20:31:00.000+10:00

Today: 22 kms - Middle Brighton to Ricketts Point (return)

I did today what I had wanted to do for about four months... I went for a long run along the Coastal Trail, starting from Brighton Baths to Ricketts Point and back again to the same starting point. I started running very late in the morning (10.50am) and I went easy and had an enjoyable time going through the bushes and running alongside many recreational cyclists.

Probably I should not have done such a long run when I have had an inconsistent two weeks of running, but (hey!) I set my goal that by end March/early April I will get to do 20+ on a Sunday. After seeing the children head off to the Peninsula for a few days I rushed to get change and have two hours of relaxation by running.

Last time I ran similar distance was before the Melbourne Marathon so it was an exciting morning. I felt particularly happy with this accomplishment.

And... great to read the race reports from those who did the Run for the Kids today...!

Where is March gone to?

2007-03-31T21:43:00.000+10:00

Runs since last post:

Monday, 26 March – Princes Park, 10 kms

Tuesday, 27 March - The Tan, 12 kms

This month: 139 kms

March, the third month of the year, is gone. Fold the page. Turn over and another sequence is about to unfold in predicted and unpredicted ways.

Where are the days and weeks of March gone to? I am not nostalgic about them disappearing so far but I am look forward to the days, weeks and months comfortably smoothing into our lives and bringing an array of excitement and new challenges.

Running has continued in the second half of this month although somewhat sporadic. Too many things going on.

Although I notice that this month is somewhat higher in kilometres than the previous one and, possibly higher than ever.

Retirement speech

Yesterday I ended up delivering a speech for a dear colleague who I have known for seventeen years Scary, if you ask me. (Knowing his invaluable skills, five years ago I recruited him to work with me in the department I set up, providing me with the backbone of knowledge management). He decided to take leave following a couple of years of health troubles. Whilst I prepared my speech notes I realised that many of the conversations I had with him greatly helped me to greatly develop my understanding of Australian society and its core values. Indeed there were many of those conversations, which took place at none other than a pub.

This was the first time I had to prepare a retirement speech and yet I am so far many y-e-a-r-s aways from possibly qualifying for retirement.

Australian Art Collector

I better finish this note now because I am dying to sit down and enjoy the latest edition of the Australian Art Collector (Issue 40, April 2007), this is a superb art market magazine, with interesting articles. Curious, check out the website:

www.artcollector.net.au

Buenas noches!

Oh what a feeling... a good run today!

2007-03-20T21:32:00.000+11:00

Today: The Tan, 12 kms

Total March (progressive): 117 kms

I am very happy that I did have a very good run today at The Tan. Completed two laps at a very comfortable pace with my Tuesday running buddy and, then I did the last one and the extra bit to make it 12kms in less time than originally planned. Not only that, I tackle the hill for the third time at a very strong pace that it made me feel so good. Oh gosh! I felt so happy when I finished. It feels so good to be able to run and not have to contend with injuries or the idea that things are going so wrong.

I started my run just before seven PM and there were lots of people around. This morning I thought I would have trouble going out for a run because my legs were feeling a bit tired but to my surprise had a very good run tonite. I am not expecting to run now until Friday or Saturday this week. Time permitting I shall do a long runt this Sunday at either The Tan or The Coastal Path.

Continuing on from yesterday's ramblings

I spent an hour early this morning reading press reports from The New York Times that provide good details about how one of the most repressive governments in Guatemala was overthrown following a fraudulent election in 1982 and replaced by yet another repressive government that was so brutal in uprooting indigenous communities in the Guatemalan highlands during a period of 18 months. Not only these press reports provided good details how events unfolded but provided intriguing details that a senior member of the US Ambassy was observing how events unfolded outside the Presidential Palace in Guatemala City.

The original plotters of the coup were outdone by an Army general who unilaterally took control of the country and pushed an agenda of [indigenous] extermination in the name of God.

Monday night ramblings...

2007-03-19T22:42:00.000+11:00

Runs since last post:

Monday, 19 March – Princes Park, 10 kms

Sunday, 18 March – Elwood-Sandringham-Elwood, 17 kms

Weds, 14 March - The Tan, 12 kms

Tuesday, 13 March – Brighton-Elwood-Brighton, 8 Kms

Monday, 12 March – Princess Park, 5 kms

March (progressive) Total: 105 kms

I have done lots of running since my last post. I also noticed that my last post was inadvertently incorrect in that one part of te entry went missing. There was additional run in the Barossa Valley, in Tunenda.

Run for the Kids

Unfortunately I missed the chance to enrol for the Run for the Kids. It is a bit of a disappointment because I was looking to catch up with other people there. However I will continue with my training and, I must say, I am very pleased that the additional Monoday evening run is going well. So in all, I am having four sessions per week – it is a bit unbalanced in that I do most of my running at the beginning of the week – this is the best I can do timewise.

Sunday Run

I was completely delighted with yesterday’s run which netted 17kms. This was not planned to happen that way. The original plan was to depart from Brighton Baths to Sandringham but at the insistence of one person we departed from Elwood, then this person texted me at midnight to say sorry I wont be running in the morning. Pardon me but I cannot express my frustration how petty people are sometimes. Calling things off at last minute after insisting on changes are not very pleasant things to do!!!!

Running blog

This running blog has become a bit of a casualty in recent weeks.I have not maintained too well since I have been focusing my little spare time in researching and making copious notes of my time growing up during those years of conflict. I have progressively tried to reconstruct events that occurred between the years 1976-1982. Then I am trying to reconstruct as much of daily activity that occurred from March 1982 to September 1982.

This is one of the biggest challenges I have ever handled. What I have started doing is maintaining a journal of the research/method process.

In a separate note but related to thi story is last night by accident I came across via a website the manuals used by the military in the Schools of the Americas (Panama Canal) to train military personnel in counter insurgency and fight the urban guerrillas in Central America in the 1980s.

That's life folks.

President Bush is sleeping in Guatemala tonight

2007-03-12T15:20:00.000+11:00

I have returned from my South Australian interlude and I shall return to the normal routine t-o-m-o-r-r-o-w. Yuk! Since last post, there has been no running. I thought I would do at least one run over the week end but no chance.

Worldnews report of the visit to Latin America of Presidente Jorge W Bush (George Bush Jr). As I write this note he will be travelling from Colombia to Guatemala City, where he will be spending a night there.

This is the third time one of the US Presidents oficially visits Guatemala (Lyndon B. Johnson in July 1956, and Bill Clinton in March 1999). But this is the first time a US President stays overnight in Guatemala. For many decades, not one US President stayed overnight in the Americas soil. Apparently Presidents whilst travelling through the Americas had stayed at sea because of security concerns.

This week, Guatemala City has been overtaken by US security forces (unlike the time in 1954 when the CIA intervened in Guatemala to overthrow a democratic government) to warrant a secure visit of George Bush who will be spending a total of 23 hours.

There have been protests in different parts of Guatemala over Bush's visit. One of the concerns for many is the fact that prior to Bush's visit, more than 200 guatemalans were deported from the USA. Many people who to live n the USA seeking an improvement to their living conditions.

President Bush is expected to visit one Mayan community, Iximche, this Monday where a protest is expected to take place.

After a civil war that affected Guatemala for 36 years, this Central American country has become a port of traffic for drugs going to the USA. Security is a major issue in Guatemala.

Travelling through South Australia

2007-03-09T21:38:00.000+11:00

Sunday, 4 March - Robe, South Australia - 11 kms

Ran along the coastline. It was an awesome ran because the scenery was spectacular. It was a sunny afternoon and the skies were relatively clear, not too hot. There were plenty of people around and I ran away from town and, as I entered into the beach I realised I was in a long stretch where vehicle were permitted. The sand felt due to the motor vehicles going across all day long.

I commenced running slowly and as I felt warmer I picked pace. Indeed I had a strong finish around town.

Today I travelled from Melbourne via Hamilton and Penola to Robe. Stopped for lunch in Penola. Visited one winery – Koonara, where I had a wonderful experience when I was there last November. Had a nice lunch at Irises Café, in the main street of town. After lunch I headed strait to Robe.

It was my first visit around this seaside town. There were plenty of cars around Robe with Victorian number plates.

Travelling through the supposedly wetlands of South Australia

Monday, 5 March – McLaren Vale, South Australia – 12 kms

Today I travelled from Robe via Kingston and Wellington to McLaren Vale. I stopped for lunch in Langhorne Creek. In Langhorne Creek I visited two wineries: Bleasdale and Rusticana Wines (where I had a nice platter for lunch – worth trying their frittata, which was superb).

When I got to McLaren in the afternoon I went for a run. I ran in the McLaren Vale Linear Trail, which goes from McLaren Vale to Willunga. It is a bitumen trail that travels through the vineyards. I had a false start because I could not find easily the trail so I run for about two kilometres trying to find it, but when I finally I did I had an enjoyable experience, because there were hardly any people around and it felt really running through the vineyards. I am beginning to wonder if there is any marathon anywhere in the world that goes through vineyards.

Another when I felt I had another strong finish; I ran the last two kilometres at a quick pace. I feel so happy that I am managing runs with good finish… Ah the beauty of not suffering from any injuries at this point in time.

Tuesday, 6 March – Barossa Vale, South Australia – 10 kms

After I booked in at the place where I would stay for the next two days, I decided to go out for a run to relieve from the stress of driving and going across the madness of Adelaide peak hour traffic.

I ran from the town of Tanunda to Nuriootpa in the walking trail alongside vineyards and the main road. Those two towns are even kilometre apart and the run walking trail is approx 4 kms long, mostly going alongside vineyards, and as I ran I went past Chateau Dorrien, Kaesler and Penfolds, just to mention a few.

I ran for about an hour at an easy pace. Feeling happy that I have run three consecutive days.

Wednesday, 7 March – Barossa Vale, South Australia – 11 kms

After spending most of the day in the Clare Vale and visiting some wineries and having a fabulous lunch at Skillogaee, I went for another run covering the same territory from Tuesday. The exception was that I increased the distance by one kilometre because the curiosity got the best of me to check a couple of interesting sites. Curiously, I completed the run in less time than the previous day. So I have figured I run at about 70-80% of race pace. There was very little wind in comparison to the previous day.

So, for the past four days I have run the equivalent of a marathon mostly through vineyards and along the coast.

Running – One year on!

2007-03-03T13:32:00.000+11:00

Runs since last post:

Mon –26 Feb – Princess Park (3kms – 1 lap)

Tues – 27 Feb – Brighton-Elwood-Brighton (10 kms)

Thur – 1 Mar - Brighton-Elwood-Brighton (10 kms)

February Total: 113kms

This week: 23 kms

South Australia Interlude

I am so excited that my long delayed and treasured South Australian interlude is effective tomorrow. I am taking off as soon as I can in what is to be a break from the steadily pace of work-life and other banalities, so I can focus in progressing development of a manuscript to bring into perspective my upbringing in the ‘Land of the Eternal Spring’ and the diaspora that follows - years of exile, self exile and temerity of uncertainty.

Needless to say that the ambit where the writing is scheduled to take place is… surprise surprise surprise: Wineries. I am targeting visiting wineries around McClaren, Barossa and Clare valleys. Then, down to business, armed with notebooks and laptop, writing down memories and recalling historical events and moments of the years of conflict.

Made no concrete plans and no bookings at all. Follow the free spirit.

Life and other matters

Regular blogging has become a bit of a challenge in recent weeks but I have made extensive progress in all fronts, which this blog is intended to represent:

- Running – progressing well – I feel running 20 kms is soon to be a regular Sunday activity

- Cooking – planning a “Three Indigenous Dinner Party” for winter, with dishes from Mexico (Aztec), Guatemala (Maya) and Peru (Inca).

- Painting – done none yet but sketched a few.

- Life / Writing – progressing in a awesome fashion – feeling very much inspired. Have come across so much relevant material in recent weeks that is assisting me in firming manuscript direction.

Let’s focus in the running dimension for a minute… March represents to me the first anniversary of regular running. For the first time in my life I have run solidly for one whole year. This week I ran twice the Brighton-Elwood-Brighton course which a year ago was a struggle. Not only I run the course that a year ago felt so much that I finish very strong – this is what I call feeling confident.

Recycled Life

2007-02-25T22:36:00.000+11:00

A documentary about the Guatemala City Garbage Dump is a hopeful for the Academy Awards, which will be announced on the evening of Feb 25 (LA time).

The Sydney Morning Herald published a review of the documentary (Recycled Life), which can be read here.

Recycled Life is a documental directed and produced by Leslie Iwerks and Mike Glad, being their first nomination for the Academy Awards. This film is about how generations of Guatemalan families live and making a living out of the toxic dump located in Guatemalan City. The documentary was filmed during four years and completed in 2006.

Jewels of Spanish Cinema

From March 1 to March 11, ACMI is presenting a festival that aims to bring Australian audiences to the best of Spanish cinema. Among the many films selected for this festival is one that was previously presented by SBS. The Railroad All-Stars is a documentary produced in 2005. It is about a group of prostitutes from Guatemala earning two dollars per service. These women dream of being treated with dignity and of ending the violence they endure. In order to draw attention to their everyday problems, they get together to form a football team, train for weeks and sign up for a local championship from which they are expelled for being prostitutes. This expulsion generates strong controversy in Guatemala, with support and rejection suddenly transforming their lives. This is their story. A compassionate, riveting, underdog tale narrated with generosity of spirit and real heart. A story of determination in the face of prejudice.

Running

Unfortunately, no running this week-end.

A mongrel of a drive to get to Princess Park

2007-02-21T23:07:00.000+11:00

Runs since last post:

Mon – 19 Feb – Brighton-Elwood-Brighton – 6kms

Tues – 20 Feb – Albert Park Lake (10kms; 2 laps)

Weds – 21 Feb – Princess Park (6 kms; 2 laps)

This month: 100 kms

I am usually pretty flexible and balanced person but when certain things annoy sooo much they have to be said. It is really stupid to report that it took me 40 mins to drive from Londsdale St to Princess Park today. I originally planned to do about 12 kms but I was so frustrated that instead I did 6 kms but I run f-a-s-t. The good thing is that I felt so good after I finished my run.

I went there because I have to be around that part of town later on. I thought that going to The Tan would take me a long time – I should have known better to stick with what I know too well. I started my race slow which didd not last for too long because of my frustration I just got into the zone so quickly that I run fast for 5 kms and then I slowed down the last kilometre as the runners for the Sunset Series were taking positions.

Just as I finished doing my stretches I saw the runner of the Sunset Series going past – it was indeed an spectable seeing the runners going past – oh boy! The leader was going fast – he was on a mission – hope he lasted the distance.

I am happy to note that I have already run 100 kms this month (compared to the 81kms in January) ...

Handling running a bit better!

2007-02-16T21:03:00.000+11:00

Runs since last post:

Sat 10 Feb – Coast Path (Brighton-Black Rock-Brighton) – 13 kms

Mon 12 Feb Princes Hill Park – 3 kms

Tues 13 Feb – The Tan – 9 Kms

Thu 15 Feb –The Tan – 9 kms

Fri 16 Feb– Elwood-Brighton-Elwood (x2) – 12kms

This month: 78 kms (yippee!)

Whilst it seems there has been progress in running since early January, this is because I have made a number of changes to daily activities which are not going to last for too long. It seems that the routine for the year is about to start in earnest – so the beauty of running 4-5 pw is gone now.

For the past six weeks I have managed to accommodate extra running sessions to my usual schedule of things but the real thing starts next week. From now on I am back to my usual work / life routine so fitting in extra runs is going to be a challenge.

Last Saturday’s run was done unexpectedly because I made changes to my original plan. Whereas Monday’s run was done to help my friend Vic get into running. This is a challenge for him (just injured and trying to complete his doctoral dissertation amongst many other responsibilities) but his determination should outlast any obstacle. Tuesday’s run was done with my pal David who is trying to build up his distance. On Thursday I ran with my neighbour Kate, who started running last November. Kate has so much stamina and a determination to succeed – I shall not be surprised if she is a starter to the Melbourne Half Marathon this year or the year after. She will indeed be there for a few of the fun runs in coming months.

Today’s run was completed in two separate lots. I ran on my own Elwood-Brighton-Elwood. Then I did it with Gaby, who is one of my marathon buddies. Just before we completed our run, Gaby and I sprinted for about 400 metres, then we got into the water and swan briefly. Ah!!! What a marvellous experience. All of this before we started the day.

Heathcote Wine Region

Last Saturday I was around the Heathcote wine region and I had a fabulous time visiting wineries and having a good chat with people there. Worth noting the superb wines at Heathcote Winery – had great pleasure tasting shiraz which is not my favourite grape (pinot and tempranillo, thank you!). I parted with a case of the cleanskin Shiraz 2005 which is a genuine bargain for $110 (members). Had lunch at Shelmerdine (Merindoc Vineyard) which is about 20 kms away from Heathcote. My favourite Shelmerdine wine is the 2004 Cab Sauv. In both cases I only bothered to taste red wines. I must say that from my previous experience there are other wineries worth visiting. I would add Melvine Estate to the list if you happen to be around the area.

Manuscript

In recent weeks I have been gathering material about Guatemala, my homeland. This week I stumble a procedural manual to assist in anthropological forensic excavations – this is a manual published by the Ministry of State Affairs in Guatemala. This is a very interesting document, which contains enough legal, anthropological, government speak jargon, et. al. As you might know Guatemala had a civil war that lasted 36 years and, in the final years of the conflict there were more than 600 massacres. In total there are 50,000 cases of disappearances – one of those disappearances is that of my brother (who at the age of 22 was taken by armed men).

Lunch of the week

Thursday I had lunch with a great buddy, who has been an inspiration for me, at the Deanery Winery Reserve, which is one of my fav places in Melbourne’s CBD. I tasted a great risotto (lamb kibbeh on preserved lemon, with mint and pea and watercress salad). At the Deanery, it is worth checking the wine list, which is phenomenally diverse. Give it a go if you haven’t yet.

St Kilda Festival

In a nutshell, it was fabulous! I got badly sun burnt last Sunday, even though I was under the shelter near the water all Sunday afternoon drinking beer. Again I had #1 clippers earlier on and my head got burnt too! Silly me.

Writing ahead of running this weekend - Man Gone Down

2007-02-09T22:56:00.000+11:00

No running today… Had a busy day at the office, including finalising proposal for a research project to be undertaken from next March to October.

Last Sunday whilst children selected DVDs at the video store I chose one (usually I had no chance to select one). Invariably I had no idea what films to watch because I generally don’t have time to do so, but this time I selected an Italian film, Besieged, directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, director of the Last Emperor. Until this evening I watched the film.

This film is about a struggling medical student studying in Rome, whilst working as a housekeeper in a villa for a young pianist-composer. Her employer falls in lover with her and he proposes to her but she rejects his offer, because she is already married to another man. She reveals that her current husband is a prisoner in an African prison.

I would not reveal the rest of the film or the plot, but this serves to me as a preamble to my first weekend for which I am able to dedicate most of the time to my research task exercise. Early tomorrow I am heading out of town with no fixed itinerary but equipped with notebooks, pens and the laptop for a weekend of writing. This is the first occasion I had since my venture to Penola last November. For most of the week I have been pondering themes and an order to my manuscript, following the research plan I developed then.

Because I am such a superb procrastinator early this evening I ventured into one bookshop in the CBD looking for a book which I had just read the review in The New York Times. The review of the book resonated with me – Man Gone Down. The book was written by Michael Thomas and it is his first novel and the theme is about his experience in growing up and his sense of identity. Fortunately the book was not available… honestly one does not need to read all books that resonate in order to work on your own.

It is time to move beyond the talking into the action and this weekend this is exactly what I envisage I will do. Hopefully I shall manage to fit in one running session.

I had lunch today with a person who I respect and with whom I had worked in a research project I led in recent years. He told me he is also going through same process and he is expecting to have a manuscript ready within the next three years. Inspirational. I was given details of the story and it is simply amazing how many people there are out there who are working on a manuscript as we speak.

Twelve kilometres today

2007-02-08T22:35:00.000+11:00

Running

Today: 12 kms – The Tan

This month: 36 kms

I ran twelve wonderful kilometres today at The Tan, approximately 58 minutes. I felt sooooo good! I am very happy. I made sure there were three laps plus the extra bit to ensure the total were 12kms.

Work has been so hectic in recent days.

Tonight I put together a project brief that shall result in a nice research grant!!! Hurray! Isnt that nice when someone else wishes to give you money to look into policy considerations for the short and medium term and how it may impact in the economy!???? Say no more.

Finally... making running progress!

2007-02-06T22:04:00.000+11:00

Running

Today: 8 kms – The Tan

Yesterday: 3.4kms – Princes Park

This month: 24 kms

Continuing with the usual Tuesday run around The Tan. I completed two relatively easy laps and finished with a strong 300mts sprint, followed by a lengthy stretch. My running partner had some difficulty but overall had a good run and plenty of time to catch up with gossip. I am encouraging him to enrol in one of the forthcoming fun runs or a triathlon.

Yesterday I completed another easy run in Princess Park. I met Victor, a member of El Sindicato, after work. We did one lap as a way to get him started – he has not been a runner and is now determined to make his way and possibly prepare for the Melbourne Marathon.

This morning I found out that some of the people who work in the same building where I work are also runners and would be interested in having a group session. It feels like the running fever is continuing to spread.

I would be very happy for the Sunday morning when I will be able to run 20 kms again... I miss that lasting sense of satisfaction and fulfilment, cruising through the Coastal Path. Ay Caramba!

Annual leave deferred

Bugger! Bugger! Bugger! My scheduled annual leave and impeding venture to the South Australian wineries had to be postponed due to the volume of work I have right at present… I am working on a couple of projects, which cannot be left unattended right now. In this trip I was planning to progress my manuscript and the onerous task of painting and poetry.

Go Melbourne Victory!

2007-02-04T21:21:00.000+11:00

Running

Today: 6 kms

This month: 11 kms

Gaby and I ran six kilometres today, from Sandringham to Black Rock. It was a very pleasant run. Weather overcast and there were plenty of people around to make the run even more interesting. Gaby has not been running since the MM, so we took things easy and had time to talk about life, friends and other banalities. Before we completed the run Arie rang (yes, one of us carried a mobile) and we ended having breakfast at one of the cafes in Sandi.

Friday, 1 Feb - 5 kms - Brighton-Elwood

At six o’clock Friday morning I was out of the door and had a very pleasant run from North Road to Glenhuntly Road and back again. For this run, I combined running in the sand and speed work. Everything worked fine and there was not soreness or pain.

Soccer

What a sweet victory for Melbourne Victory who will now host the soccer final in Telstra Dome in two weeks’ time (against the winner of Adelaide and Newcastle. The winning goal was scored in extra time; 90 seconds before the final whistle. Melbourne Victory 2 Adelaide 1.

Joe Cinque’s Consolation

2007-02-01T22:08:00.000+11:00

Running

Today: 8 kms

This week: 21 kms

I have not run early in the morning for many, many many weeks and today I was out before 6am. I run from home to my regular beach route (North Rd, Brighton to Glenhuntly Rd, Elwood and back again). A very pleasant run, I must say.

And, a I stretched very well. Very obedient boy.

Helen Garner: Joe Cinque’s Consolation

Yesterday evening I finished Helen Garner’s book titled “Joe Cinque’s Consolation”. This is a book that narrates the story of a university Law student who not only talks about murdering her devoted boyfriend but she actually carries out her plan in bizarre circumstances; albeit to say she is now out and has completed a postgraduate qualification.

This is the first time I have fully read one of the works written by Garner, who is a well-known Australian writer. She has been known to controversy, particularly because of her book “The First Stone”, which is an account of a sexual harassment scandal at Ormond College, one of the residential colleges of the University of Melbourne.

The book was recommended to me by a good friend who is a Melbourne-based editor and who is writing a book about the death of someone in her family. At the start I was reluctant to read Garner’s book but my friend persuaded me – for very good reasons. Garner’s ability to put herself as one of the protagonists in the book is impressive. She seems to muster a sense of righteousness, which is not quite my sense of evenness. It took me about ten pages to get into the story, which struck me as a chronicle of a foretold murder. Indeed, the girl had had spoken at length to friends of her intentions to kill her boyfriend. She had also organised a number of farewell dinner parties where she was expected to execute her plans.

In fact the key points of the story are outlined in the initial pages of the book, but Garner had the ability to distil ample details of the court trail and the aftermath of Joe’s family. It is indeed the sense of grief and loss that makes Garner’s book a good read. Indeed I found the book remarkable in that sense, mainly because in recent months I have mentally reconstructed the weeks subsequent to the kidnapping of my brother amidst the uprooting that occurred in Guatemala in the early 1980s.

Garner’ book is not a thriller or a psychological mystery (as pompously described by an Australian media outlet). This is a book that reconstructs the death of a man who had no time to react to the plans of his girlfriend and a chronicle of the pain and despair of a family of migrants that feel powerless that justice cannot be served for an innocent victim.

As I was reading the last forty pages of the book I was listening to Natalie Dessay (Airs d’operas francais) sing Gaetano Donizetti “Acte II from La fille du régiment" (The Daughter of the Regiment). The following verse struck me:

C'en est donc fait
et mon sort va changer,
Et personne en ce lieu ne vient me protéger!

So, it’s done, and my life is about to change,

And there’s no one here to help me!

This is exactly how Joe Cinque may have felt in his final weeks of his life. His girlfriend killer had been planning his death for weeks. His death occurred after a dinner party at their house. The book starts with the transcript of the emergency call made by the killer herself to the ambulance. Indeed very powerful start to the book.

Not a bad month after all

2007-01-31T20:01:00.000+11:00

Runs since last post:

Tues 30 Jan – The Tan – 7.8 kms

Mon 29 Jan Princes Park – 5 kms

Tu 23 Jan - Coast Path – 5 Kms

Thu 18 Jan –The Tan – 4 kms

Sat 13 Jan – Albert Park Lake – 5kms

This month: 81 kms

Incredible January went so quickly! Holy cow!

Although I started well the year in running terms, I have taking things easy since my run on Sat January 13^th when I ran around the Albert Park Lake. On that day I noticed that my left leg was not responding as well as expected. I had severe pain and was unable to run beyond the one lap. It was the same sort of pain I experienced last September when I was diagnosed with shin splints. Shin splints strikes again but this time on the other leg!

So what I have done instead is reduce running considerably – well, a good excuse to focus and do other things.

Recently I had lunch with an old pal of mine who ran 16 marathons and his wise advise was to forget running a marathon so soon (so GOR is out of question). Instead I will concentrate in running my first around June and then the MM in October. I will enter some of the fun runs in coming months.

And, the running fever continues with friends and other pals... another member of El Sindicato has decided that the MM is a goer!

Getting serious with... running

2007-01-11T23:02:00.000+11:00

Today: 8 kms

This week: 27.5 kms

This month: 54 kms

Running

I returned to The Tan this evening for an easy 8 km run, which I truly enjoyed it. Besides, if I wish to return to the long runs sometime soon, I better keep going for those runs that help build towards the desired goal. I am beginning to find the runs easier to handle and, I am beginning to get used to slow starts and finish strong.

I bought today my first running book –The Ultimate Training Guide by Hal Higdon. I cannot wait any longer to get into reading it and putting into practice some of the principles outlined in the book.

Claypots

One of my favourite eateries in Melbourne is Claypots, specifically the St Kilda outlet. I had a nice meal there this evening with some friends, and whilst we waited for our table we had a drink at the bar. Yes, there is a bar now – an annex. The bar opened five weeks ago so I was told by the bar attendant. She recommended we tried the Czech beer, which was very appropriate for a hot summer evening. The wine selection is one full page and appears to be comprehensive. The wines are at good prices.

We ordered the usual stuff, a few tapas, the grilled calamari (this time prepared differently – it was served with peppers, onions and potatoes; all good flavours) and the snapper (very tasty and the herbs were just perfect).

Originally I was told therePublish was a waiting period of about an hour and a half. We got our tables within forty minutes or, in plain vernacular language – two beers later. Sometimes it feels it is easier to catch a fish than securing a table at this restaurant.

Just in case...

I usually post my stuff without edits - the thoughts appear as they emerge. Because, I tend to rush things around, I do not tend to review the text.

Reached a milestone – 12kms

2007-01-09T22:41:00.000+11:00

Today: 12 kms

This week: 19.5 kms

This month: 46 kms

It is one of those things in life… you dare to get into your head to run 12 kms but you have done 4 or 5 kms and you start to despair. Ay! Carajo! said I a few times whilst I was going around and around The Tan this evening. But because I committed myself (oh yeah… me thinking that running is just easy!) to run today three laps and the extra bit to make 12 kms, I had to finish the bloody run as planned. The good thing is that I did the last kilometre running faster than the previous 11 kms. My previous longest distance in recent times was the 10kms on Christmas Day (just because a huge meal).

This is how I ran today: I started (just past the 3km mark) running slowly (sorry MAR, did not do the 5 min walk) then picked a little pace after one kilometre and sustained it for the first lap, including going up the hill in Anderson St, but as I progressed I increased it a bit more – just enough to feel comfortable and breath easily. As I completed my first lap I felt good but sweating a fair bit – I am now convinced that the Asics blue top I wear sometimes is not the right one for hot days – I prefer the white Adidas I have which makes me feel less sweaty. Going up the hill the second time was less joyful than anticipated but even less joyful the third time (I even tried to stay within distance to a nice young chic but she was going to slow for my like so I had to pass her). Because I prefer going up than going down, I usually stop to have a drink of water at the fountain (near the 1.5 km mark), from that point on I just picked pace and then ran fast the last kilometre… I had glimpses of enjoyment as I reached the 12 kms milestone… I hope and I pray to the Gods that I stay injury free for the next 18 weeks!

The Tan was full of runners today, many familiar faces – it looks like the regulars are back in town. I saw one my my neighbours, an old flame from years ago and the umistakable combat wonbat, having a new hair style. Guess, who do i said hello to? Combat wonbat !

I am resting tomorrow and I am running again on Thursday. If things continue to go right, I am hopeful that by early February I shall be able to run 20kms on a Sunday morning.

And another thing...
I forgot to say that on a lengthy telephone conversation with my bro in LA, I ruled out running the LA marathon in early March this year… I was looking forward to having a crack at the race there because this is a city I have visited so many times and I am very familiar with it. However, I shall make the trip later on the year so I can go to Hermosa Beach to eat the best lobster tacos you can find in the planet (okay in sunny California).

Now that I lost the fear to #1 - I am considering a complete shave, then I will go to long hair for winter.

Adios chicos y chicas!

Am I addicted …? Another run today

2007-01-07T22:30:00.000+11:00

Today: 6.7 kms
This week: 27.5 kms
This month: 34 kms

This afternoon after changes around it happened I ended up having a couple of hours to spare, so I ended up going for a r-u-n. Instead of going to one of my usual running places I paired with David (who is training to walk the Kokoda Trail in July) and ran around Caulfield Park.

For a route of today’s course, see
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=624591

Caulfield Park is a very flat course, no hills and no major surprises at all. It is a 2kms course, a bit longer than the Duncan MacKinnon Reserve in Bentleigh. We ran anticlockwise and we initially expected to run 5 laps but David’s hummies were annoying him so we decided to cut short the run. It worked fine with me, because I have been running too frequently lately.

I am not becoming addicted to running; it is a matter of having some time now that later on will be scarce once we get back to the usual, mundane, daily routine of our lives. Isn’t that pathetic? Never mind, stop whingeing. Get on with life.

Casablanca
After years of willing to watch Casablanca, I have finally watched it. I started after Christmas but with so many things going on, I paused it and only returned to it today! What a film, what a passion…! I saw Casablanca when I was a kid and I always considered it to be one of my favourite films. Never knew why, but probably because it has the drama of love in difficult times, lasting passion and the impossibility of fulfilling that long life lasting love.

Pesto and Wine
I believe there is nothing more exciting than fulfilling the desire to have a good fresh pesto for dinner. Well, this morning I happened to visit my local fresh and veg shop and they had the last bunch of basil. The basil looked inconspicuous when I took it out of the shop’s container but as I was dissecting the leaves and placing them in the blender the full flavour was getting attached to my fingers and the smell overtook the kitchen’s summer stiffness. It penetrated through the olive oil as I mixed all the ingredients and in a matter of seconds it looked very appealing. Dinner was accompanied with a nice glass of Di Giorgio Emporio, which was I wine I tasted in my trip to Coonawarra last November. The Emporio is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc; it is a wine I liked it very much because of its complexity and relative soft structure.

Clipper #1
For the past few months I have been flirting with #2s and #1 and 1/2...
Do I need to say anything else? Finally:

A crazy day… but managed to run

2007-01-06T22:18:00.000+11:00

Today: 4.5 kms

This week: 27.5 kms

Today was a crazy day… started with shopping at one of the DFOs, which I think are not the bargains people often think they are (same stuff can be purchased at even better prices at the retail stores – just know when they offer the big discounts!). After that I ended up in Rebel Sport checking the Polar range of watches / lap / HRM. It’s somewhat crazy that I am considering buying one – but this is because my casual watch – a Swiss Army – has the wristband broken and I think it will cost more money to get a new one than what it is worth. Then I had to drive to Cape Schanck to collect Izzy and Seb.

Later in the afternoon, unexpectedly I had an opportunity to go to out for a run – so I took the chance to go to The Botanical Gardens. Given the heat and the extreme windy conditions, I only managed to complete one lap and a bit, but happy that I have ran five times this week. Considering that I ran last night I decided to take this afternoon’s run easy; in fact my legs were not quite there to go for a fast run. I must say that I am very pleased with the new running top I am wearing – an Adidas, white one – it feels far more comfortable than the New Balance I have worn for the past two months. It feels Adidas fits me better than the New Balance.

If I compare today's run against yesterday's, I have to say that I felt more comfortable yesterday. Dont know why - I cannot say that the glass of Pinot I had at about 3 pm or the G&T at 5pm played a big role, but I would imagine that the windy conditions and the humidity made today's running somewhat unbearable. I am beginning to notice that my legs are getting firmer (needless to say that my calves are very muscular already).

Initially i thought I would manage to run 10kms at The Tan - since it is one of my favourite running places - compared to my little mileage I have accummulated running around Elwood 0 but it was not meant to be a long run yet. I am listening to my body - my legs really.

So I am very happy that this week has been a very good running week.

Gosh! Feeling Upbeat

2007-01-05T23:39:00.000+11:00

Today: 7 kms

This week: 23 kms

I ran four times this week, thus being an exceptional week, given my work/life schedule. Invariably things will change in coming weeks but I will start building up mileage early in the year so it shall be not long when I get out on a Sunday morning (circumstances permitting) and run 20+ kms.

I would like to remain optimistic that this year I will consolidate running long distances relatively early leading to a race/competition. My particular interest resides in one long distance run per week, which I propose to use as a mechanism to review the week and sort out my thoughts and action plan.

For this week the territory I covered in my runs was pretty much the Brighton-St Kilda area. URL for this route is: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=620309.

This evening I started my run at 9pm from North Road and the temperature was 33 degrees Celsius! As I passed the Elwood beach, there were so many people having picnics and playing in the beach. It was as if there was a festival. Fortunately there were no many people with dogs obstructing the paths…! (by now it should be pretty clear that I am not a pet lover). Paradoxically as I progressed to St Kilda, the crowd changed… more couples and less family-oriented like in the Elwood area. On my return I stopped at Ormond Point to drink water and to stretch for five minutes. As I am returning to running after suffering from shin splints I have introduced a ‘stretch stop’ to minimise any potential injury. I have also become more disciplined in having ice pack on both of my legs for ten minutes after a run.

One thing I noticed this evening was that I did not start running so eagerly as I usually do and I think this helped me to stay really upbeat all the way to the finish. This is rather unusual because I frequently think of quitting running half way through. I also felt I was running more at ease than previous occasions – but it could mean that I have stayed away from having unnecessary biscuits and cakes when having coffee / tea in the office and drinking very little alcohol (although today I had a Bombay sapphire gin and tonic!).

I continue to walk five minutes prior and after the run. I am also doing religiously a set of stretches. Hope this is going to be a regular practice for weeks to come.

Depending on my activities this weekend I may have opportunity to go to The Tan for a run.

Thursday, January 04, 2007

Today: 6 kms
This week: 16 kms

There was a miracle… I was not expecting to go out for a run today but it happened. I ran 6kms, starting at 6.30AM and it felt hot already. I felt suffocated and had to stop regularly to drink water. One thing that I have noticed is that there is not a visible water fountain between Ormond Point and St Kilda (unless these are hidden between the bushes). Anyone who runs regularly between Brighton to Ricketts Point will notice water fountain at different points, there are not many around St Kilda.

USA Politics: Democrats in Control of Congress

Following on the mid term elections in the USA last November 2006, the Democrats are now in control of the USA Congress. This means that there is going to be a shift in the USA foreign policy, with the most obvious change occurring in coming week, it is the way the USA will tackle the worsening situation in Iraq.

The new 110^th Congress convened on this date and the new democratic leadership has vowed to introduce a bill to raise the minimum wage to US$7.25 per hour. Why do I mention this…? It is because those dishwashers, fast food cooks, and other unskilled workers will benefit. Those people are usually migrants and they often use a fair amount of their meagre income to send remittances to their home countries. Republicans are expected to block the bill increasing minimum wages.

And another thing… John Negroponte (the Director of Intelligence and former Ambassador to Honduras during the years of conflict in Central America in the 1980s) has been appointed Deputy to Dr Condoleezza Rice, the Secretary of State.

John Negroponte was the USA Ambassador in Honduras between the years of 1981 and 1985. During one year of that period I lived in Tegucigalpa, capital of Honduras. I do remember that Negroponte was a name given to a number of a few new babies born during that period. The USA Ambassador usually plays an important role in the life of any small country. It is argued that John Negroponte down played human rights abuses in Honduras.

More information about the USA Congress:

http://www.house.gov/

Yepee! Running again today

2007-01-02T21:48:00.000+11:00

Today: 5 kms
This week: 10 kms

Lucky me... running for a second consecutive day; 5kms again. Feel happy about it. Unfortunately I wont be running for a couple of days (due to social engagements; oh yeah! the social animal out again). I am not running mainly to catch up with some people I have not seen for a while.

Running again today made me good although I must say that the heat and humidity is somewhat hard to take right now, particularly when you are running along the beach. Today I started my run at about 8.40pm and there so many people out there in the beach...!

I am walking 5 mins prior to running, then I head off and tried to zig zag walkers, dogs, small children in tricycles. Gee! so many people and obstacles out there! Elwood is always so busy. After I stop running I walk for another five minutes and do stretching. I usually do my stretching anywhere between North Rd and Martin St.

Next week I shall start running around The Tan again. I may even consider running around Princess Park with some other people who are regulars around there.

Running has given me the discipline to work on other projects... so running is my creative incubator.

2007 events
I am indeed very keen in participating in running events this year (albeit to say that my schedule is somewhat tight) but if I am able to gain form relatively quickly and without injury I shall be making it to the start lane at the earliest possible.

Indeed the MM has been pencilled in (October). I am considering the 30th Traralgon marathon. I would like to consider a half GOR.

Pantry
Yesterday I had a good cleaned out of my pantry. I not only discovered I had a peanut better expired 15 months ago; a full jar of unopened packets of Twinning and Dilmah tea bags; 5 tins of tuna and salmon; far too many tins of coconut milk (when I hardly ever I cook Asian), but I have soo many different T2 teas: De tox (my morning fav drink), red chai, passion, botanica, bright night, gyokuro asahi and creme brulee... F! far too many... this is insane.
For obvious reasons I have to keep a number of different cereals (seven in total again!), a good pile and variety of biscuits.

Thinking about it... seven must be a magic number for me.

Adios.

First of January - First run!

2007-01-01T21:32:00.000+11:00

I started well this year... I went for a 5 km run this evening, from North Rd Brighton to Glenhuntly Rd Elwood and back to North Rd. The conditions were not so good for a run because it was rather humid and opressive

After the MM and having taken 6 weeks to recover from injury, I still find difficult running. I feel I have lots fitness. My original plan was to have gained form by Christmas. What I mean by gaining form is that I would like to be able to do one weekly run of 20kms + and the longest I have managed so far wass 10kms (on Christmas day, I must say). So i have been forced to rethink about my plans to start fully training for another race. I think the earliest I could aim now is April.

Life
Went to see Happy Feet last week and I truly enjoyed it. I think that some of the scenes of the film are not apt for children under 6/7 years old. Having said that, today's children are - I think - more exposed to see stronger films than in my generation. The film has a strong political message in that preservation of the environment as well as endangered species of animals is critical .

I had ten days off and time disappeared...! I had a wonderful time with the family. I managed to read the dailies every morning... ah! what a pleasure!

I would be one of the very few suckers who returns to work on the 2nd of January...

Capital punishment
I do not condone taking the life of a guilty person as a way to deal with justice. I grew up in a country where capital punishment become a common practice at the height of the war and many innocent lives were lost this way. Death penalty should be abolished regardless of the crime and the individual.
I would rather see those responsibles for atrocities locked away and given a sentence of 30-40 years improsement.

Adios 2006 ! Welcome 2007!

2006-12-30T11:18:00.000+11:00

At the stroke of midnight on Sunday we farewell 2006... and we embrace the new year.

As we shall raise our glasses to welcome the new year we make ourselves promises and resolutions that the year ahead is going to be better than the one we just left.

Whatever are our goals - I would like to wish everyone a prosperous and happy new year.

As for me 2006 has been an interesting and clearly a defining year. I accomplished many things I set to achieve and I look forward to 2007. Different challenges and some will continue from 2006, but above all, 2007 will be further travelling along the highway - a year that promises so much from what was accomplished in the immediate past.

A huge cyber hug and a kiss !

Ps - Past ten days have been time to rest, read, listen to good music, watch films, take things easy and above all, feel happy...

2006-12-21T22:10:00.000+11:00

Running...

Let's make it clear and not painful... there is no way I can do the LA marathon. I should be doing by now 20+ kms. I am far far far away from this significant milestone right now.

So, I have to revise my goals...

However, other things are progressing better than running. In balance, a happy camper.

Playing with Words - You at 9.15

I stared at you
Longer than expected
Shorter than the passing of the dreariest season.

Glanced directly at your eyes
Reading your life
Parading it in front of me
Tun tun !

You dreading:
He is processing fast.
She is assimilating slowly.

Tun tun !
Somewhere wide open
Wish you turn your attention to
Open space nowhere to be seen.

Reality is sinking in
Deeper
Superficially;
Take your pick.

Everyone reacts differently
City Strangers
Souls searching .

Nothing projects.
Passion and interest
Go easy;
Console yourself
find your mantra.

I sail away.
Next parade.

Inevitability of change...

2006-12-20T22:44:00.000+11:00

Running

I am happy to say that I am beginning tor un more regularly now although I am consolidating runs of around 6-8kms to defer or minimise any potential injury. I shall be able to continue a thrice a week routine, but I envisage I will incorporate cycling to/from work once a week so I stay more physically active.

Books

I just started reading Helen Garner's "Joe Cinque's Consolation". It is an interesting story and one that I think I will have delight in reading. This book was recommended by a South African, who read it with caution but got into the story after five pages of it.

Should I say that during the break I look forward to reading A Lover of Unreason: The Biography of Assia Wevill, written by Yehuda Koren and Eilat Negev? That's the sort of fatal attraction that gets you on your running gear.

Further, I dearly hope I will be reading hundreds and hundreds of pages of material that cover the years of conflict in Guatemala - a country that has not evolved economically and politically as fast as other Latin American countries.

All things considered 2007 promise to be a year of action, a different kind from previous year... there is an inevitability of rightward change.

Feliz Navidad y Prospero Ano Nuevo!

Life and Reconstructions

2006-12-14T20:53:00.000+11:00

Seconds

Minutes

Hours…

Childhood

Days

Weeks

Months…

Youth

Seasons

Years…

Adulthood

Time goes by

Time flies

Time disappears

We feel time

We feel idle

We idle time

There is a time for design, construction

Accomplishing

Enjoying

Nurturing

All those things

Life brings about

And there is a time for

Things to turn around

Inside out

Upside down

Sideways

Then there is a time for reconstruction

Take stock of your past

And from your life cycle

Nurture time

There is a time for a journey of discovery

Revisiting and returning to the former self

Swinging to the left of the pendulum

Invariably avoiding it shifts upwardly right

Once we crossed paths

Preterite

Optional to make it a fond memory

Shall we find it enduring

It is a matter of choice

Endurance of one, two lives, a collective

A matter of destiny

Within one’s confines

Invariably one’s life

Placed within an era

It’s a matter of choice

How one makes life

Lasts longer than a plethora of time.

III

The leaves are turning brown

Imaginary

Autumn follows

Capture the joy of the previous season

Make it last and travel further beyond the seasons.

Visualise spring and what follows

Intrigue

Tenderness

Life continues.

Feels like an eternity...

2006-12-12T21:01:00.000+11:00

... five minutes walking!

Here we go again... another try this evening at The Tan. I started by walking for five minutes (gosh... sounds like I am an obedient boy - NOT!), then I ran at an easy pace.

Whilst I can say I had a good run, fitness has vanished - gone away. I struggled to complete the second lap and ended up walking a bit. I figured a combination of factors come into play - insufficient sleep, inadequate food intake during the day, humidity... could keep going and making excuses. I am certainly not pressuring myself to regain form.

Certainly going up the Anderson St hill for the first time was harder than the second time, but then again I was warmer.

I completed the second lap by walking... followed by ten minute stretching.

Progress so far so good. It's a question of patience and perseverance to build to mid-distance.

A happy runner

2006-12-11T18:36:00.000+11:00

In the early evening of yesterday I ventured to run around The Tan... it was immediately after the temperature dropped zillions, so it was a bit unsettling but it was an overall rewarding experience, because running at an easy pace, I managed to complete two laps in about 44 mins... mind you I had to stop for drinking water more than usual.

The good news is that there is no pain in my leg today.... So obviously I feel positive about this development.

The tricky bit now is to start a training plan to warrant a relative uncomplicated return to regular running. I am particularly interested in returning to the long Sunday morning runs!

Yes, I ventured for a run and no pain today

2006-12-04T17:50:00.000+11:00

Running
Yes, there was one lap and a bit around The Tan yesterday evening... Lower leg was not as bad today as I anticipated. As a warm up, I walked for five minutes and then started to run, only to realise that I was going to fast - never mind, I completed my 4kms run as I anticipated, followed by ten minutes of stretching.
This is the critical bit... my leg does not seem to be acheing today unlike two weeks ago, so I feel happy that I am making progress. The bad news is that I have lost so much fitness (agggggggggh!). Never mind, if my recovery continues as planned, by Christmas time I shall be able to enjoy cruising for a nice run, then I shall start building kilometres.

Last infamous words: I will be very strict with stretching.

Mole

It is a concoction or sauce. The most common description of mole is that it is a chocolate sauce. This sauce is made out of dried chiles, nuts, seeds, vegetables, spices and chocolate (preferably toasted cacao beans).

As far as i know the word mole is derived from the Aztec "molli". For most of us, mole is the stuff or sauce that we put on enchiladas, meat dishes and so forth.

Considering 2007...

2006-12-02T22:33:00.000+11:00

Running
None yet... but I will start doing progressive stretching and following advice if I wish to continue running: So when it comes to new year's resolutions (what!@?) it will be pretty much a formality...

Recently I thought if I will do a marathon abroad which one I shall attempt to do.
I checked the website that listed the World's Top 10 marathons, and discovered that the London Marathon's registration / lottery is now closed. Then I checked the other ones but these happen much later in 2007, but have found that the Los Angeles happens in early March, which may suit me from a number of different reasons - mainly family.
I have even discovered that there is a marathon near by in February - too soon though. The Buller Marathon happens on February 10.
Let's see what happens in coming weeks. Alternatively, GOR in May 2007 -either as a half or full - is very appealing to me.
For later in the year, there are a few around which are very attractive: Berlin and Paris. Needless to say that doing the Melbourne again is a must.

Research plan
The research plan has not been shelved... time has been very scarce lately.

USA delivery
A package posted in California on 28/11 arrived home yesterday, containing mole and pepian (yummy food) and awesome music...

Who are these people?

2006-11-28T06:34:00.000+11:00

Running

There has been no more running since last Tuesday. I decided to let my legs rest a bit longer so to minimise any post-run pain. Although I enjoyed my run last Tuesday there was a bit of pain in the subsequent days to the run... so, a rest is more than necessary.

Who are these people?

The Australian Weekend edition had the following lyrics which I found interesting:

Who are these people that keep telling us lies
And who did these people get control of our lives
And who'll stop the violence cause it's out of control?
Make em stop

Who are these people that destroy everything
And sell off the future for whatever it brings
And what kind of leaders can't admit
when they're wrong?
Make em stop

by Burk Bacharach and Tonio K.

More about Bacharach:
http://www.retrosellers.com/features127.htm

http://www.thepeaches.com/music/bacharach/

Running and today's oppressing weather conditions

2006-11-21T23:15:00.000+11:00

At 6.30pm this evening, I parked my car in my usual spot (past Government House Drive) in The Tan and I saw Wombat Combat running so furiously... After all, not much has changed around there.

I got changed in a matter of seconds, removing jacket, tie, shirt and pants. Running gear, I started to walk to warm up (not that I needed it - 35 degrees, oppressing weather conditions) and then I started to run.

My running buddy wisely pulled out in the early afternoon. I only decided to run after I left office just 6pm and felt that the run would happen as scheduled.
As I was saying I started to run slowly, being conscious of the shin splint in my left leg, I did not want to do anything silly. I went pass the Pillars and then I enjoyed the section that I call "The Calm before the Storm" because it is just before the Anderson St hill. O boy the hill today was so difficult under the extreme heat... but I persisted, enjoying going down and then continuing along Domain Rd and going past the Shrine. After a month of not running one loses fitness and drive, but one thing for sure, I truly enjoyed running again today. Whilst I was running I realised how much things have changed for me. To start with, now I have an idea what the discipline of running is all about and have the ability to persist rather than quit at the first discomfort.

I completed the first lap and continued to run just enough to say, I have run 5 kilometres today. Gosh.. pace/time, who gives a dumm! I just went out to enjoy myself, which I did.

I walked for a bit and then I stretched for ten minutes. Had my left leg on ice for a while this evening.

That's all folks!

Just knew he was Guatemalan...

2006-11-16T22:18:00.000+11:00

Running
I have forgotten to say that Gabi and I were talking on Monday night about our running prospects for 2007. We are both committed to train for another marathon, certainly the MM in October has been pencilled in. We will see if there is another earlier on to aim for… He has not run since the Melbourne Marathon but he is considering starting to train again before Christmas.

As for Alexis, he is over the moon he was the one in the main picture of El Sindicato’s story in Tuesday’s Epicure (The Age). He has ruled out going for another marathon in the foreseeable future.

I just knew he was Guatemalan
As simple as that… In a city of 3.5 million I saw him and I recognised a Chapin. My intuition told me that. We have arranged to meet for coffee / have a drink on the weekend and then we will organise the dinner.

G.S., If you can send us some pepian and mole… that would be very much appreciated… No es pena pedir favores entre chapines, lejos de la Patria… (In solidarity, Chapines away from the loved homeland support each other).

Call from the USA
Meeting Neco reminded me of the following:
Years and years ago something spooky happened to me. One Saturday afternoon, I received at home a phone call from the USA asking me whether I was so and so. No, I am afraid you were given the wrong telephone number, I responded. On the other line, "a telephone operator told me this was the correct number", she said. Let me have a have look if I can find the person you are after in the telephone directory, I responded.
I searched in the directory and could not find the name of the person she was after. Obviously she was rather upset because she wanted to get in touch urgently with the person she was looking for. She told me she had already paid the operator for the search and for the phone call. I promised her I would continue to search.

Later on the following week, I happened to be at Brandon shopping centre (somewhere in Springvale Road) during a lunch hour and I went into a computer shop. I ended up talking to one of the shop assistants because I was looking for a computer component. He gave me his business card and I was about to put into the pocket of my jacquet when I had a quick glance at the card. The surname rang the bell. I asked this young man whether the name of his father was the same of the one the lady was after. He replied yes. Then I told him what happened the Saturday before. I encouraged him to tell his father about the phone call I received five days earlier.

Melbourne Storm
I neither follow nor understand rugby but one cannot avoid the fact that the Melbourne Storm finished at the top of the 2006 NRL competition and then lost the grand final against the Brisbane Broncos in Sydney. It was a rare occasion for Sydneysiders to support a Melbourne team in a sporting event of this magnitude. I suppose it is what you would call solidarity. (Needles to say we were happy for Sydney to win the 2005 AFL Grand Final).

The point now is that the 2007 draw has been released. The competition starts in mid March 2006. Hopefully they will keep the momentum going.

In the meantime, Melbourne Victory continues at the top of the football (okay soccer!) A-League.

Hey dude, I have missed running

2006-11-15T23:34:00.000+11:00

Okay, I will say it: Even though I have a full on life, I miss running.

I have been really busy in recent days that I hardly had any spare time to firm up some other stuff which I consider important. The inevitability is therefore delaying things.

Whilst I am beginning to prepare mentally for one easy run next week, I will do so at an easy and relaxed pace. I will build up proressively.

Federalism
The ruling of the High Court in favour of the Commonwealth's case brings a new dimension to federalism. States power is further eroded. Nothing new here, really. States power have been eroding over the past twenty years or more.

In this age and era, it appears that the rule of the province, state or regional authority is diminished for the national rule. After all, we are part of a global and universal market! Yuk!

I wonder how long it will take for the first bold move from Canberra to take power away from the States. Certainly health and education are two key areas - further privatisation are likely to follow in years to come.

Finally... It goes beyond me why there is no national uniformity in educational standards here in Australia...

Another bloody draw for the Socceroos
Why do the socceroos cannot play a match and not concede a goal...? Again today against Ghana, another defence blunder against a weak opposition. Socceroos drew 1-1, playing in London. For Christ's sake stop making silly mistakes!

Read the story in The Age .

Unbelievable sightings
Monday night having a hot chocolate at Cafe Nova (in Brunswick St, Fitzroy) with members of 'El Sindicato', I spotted a Guatemalan from the distance. I did not know this fellow but I simply said "Hey chapin!" when he went past the cafe. He quickly turned around to see who said that ... It turns out he's been living in Melbourne for a year and only knows one other Guatemalan. Last time I sighted a Guatemalan in Melbourne was many many many years ago.

His name is Ernesto, an anthropologist, plays the guitar and sings. We agreed to meet very soon to share some "chistes" (jokes in Spanish) and eat beans, tortillas, mole, pepian and have a few rums (Ron Zacapa).

I am back... moving on

2006-11-14T19:13:00.000+11:00

Running
I am considering a return to running next week with one of my weekly runners. The idea is to go for an easy run and a catch up. Mark and I have run together in the past and the idea is to start building progressively.

The pain in my right leg seems to have gone and I am beginning to start feeling a bit more at ease. For the past few weeks I have tried to reduce any unnecessary pressure or stress to the legs.

I shall indeed build distance progressively and I will follow good and sound advice from those with experience.

Life
Since the Melbourne Cup week-end I have been rather busy and unable to submit a blog report. I lost a three pager document I had about my trip – it was accidentally deleted by a regular user to my laptop! You can imagine my frustration when I was told about this little incident…
My weekend adventure all of a sudden turned to be a story about deinosuchus!

I am in a transitional period after making a number of changes to my activities in recent weeks. The results should start paying off in coming weeks. Hopefully running will be enhanced from such changes.

Ortega and Bush
The success story of Daniel Ortega winning the presidential election in Nicaragua and the change of fortune for George W Bush in the USA are good material for a modern political fable.

Epicure
Today's edition of The Age had a story about "El Sindicato" - it's all about men doing cooking for life!

Research plan
Yes...! I got a research plan plus have outline for more than one project! Need to borrow two or three people's lives to do everything!

Removing the sleeping dinosaur

2006-11-02T22:25:00.000+11:00

Running - It's a long gone phenomenon but I am going to apply the acquired discipline [framework] used to prepare for running the Melbourne Marathon, in what follows for me right now.

Twenty four, twenty, fifteen, ten or just five years makes no much difference, really. It's the journey and the destination that matters. There are several stops and starts but they are all part of the same journey. So what is the point if it takes another year or two, the intersection is the same, the point of convergence is just there.

Life
Life evolves in ways that one cannot predict. No need to take hostages or feel like a mercenary anymore. As the popular song says.."la vida sigue igual", life goes on.

Finally I am about to undertake a project that have long lasted to do ... write about life and past experiences! Before that happens, scoping of what follows it's necessary. It's the same approach required to prepare for a marathon. The execution is important so is the planning. Time, energy, inspiration and focus are words that come to my mind right now.

There are a few subject matters that interest me. For example, writing a story based on the capture of Noriega, former President of Panama, by the USA in 1989 is one that interest me so much. I lived in Panama for a year prior to my arrival in Australia and it is a country I feel connected to. I have kept for all of those years newspaper clippings how these events unfolded. [Noriega was seeking refuge in the Vatican mission in Panama City when USA troops supported by thousands of troops flew over the mission to capture Noriega and took him to Miami to face charges of complicity with money laundering and drug trafficking.] Another story is the years of student activism in Guatemala during the years of conflict, particularly at the peak of the repression in the 1980s.

One of my favourite writers, Augusto Monterroso, wrote this eloquent and powerful short story:

The dinosaur

When he woke up, the dinosaur was still there.

story accessible on Things magazine

Ps
Augusto has gone to sleep and he is not waking up again, but I am about to remove that dinosaur that has remained idle for a long long long time.

Melbourne Cup
Australia stops for a horse race on Tuesday... It's a long week-end. So much to be consumed so little to gain. My core efforts will be to progress a research/essay plan overlooking the tranquility of the landscape that I treasure the most.
Let's see what evolves in coming days...

Halloween and “Dia de los Muertos”

2006-10-31T22:33:00.000+11:00

Running:
No running - not even across the street - I can tell you it's very very frustrating!

Life
This evening I had a loud knock at my door when I opened it I realised today was Halloween! Ay!!!! Forgot to buy chocolates but I was a good fellow and gave these children at my door a huge Lindt chocolate block I had for later on.

I grew up celebrating the “Day of the dead”, but what it is…? Here is a bastardised explanation:

1. It is a celebration that goes a long, long, long way back. It was a celebration in Mesoamerica (pardon me … what is that?), i.e. the home of the Mayan and Aztecs, in what is today known as Mexico and Central America. The ritual is a celebration of the memory of those who have departed but also a celebration of the continuation of life.
2. Apparently it was celebrated in the northern Summer (around August) rather than at this time of the year heading.
3. When the Spanish "conquistadores" made it to the Americas, things got complicated and they brought the Gregorian calendar and their own traditions, so the Aztec/Mayan calendar was made redundant.
4. So a compromise was made in due course… (oh yeah!). The celebration was moved by Spanish priests (more intriguing to say the ‘Conquistadores’) to coincide with the Christian celebration of All Hallows Day. So it is now a blend of paganism and Christianism at work!

The first day of November is “All Saints Day” and the second day is the “All Souls Day”. Halloween is a different kettle of fish, really.

When I was growing up it did not make difference to us whether we were celebrating the Day of the Dead, All Saints Day or All Souls Day, because we were too busy flying our kites and having fun… It coincided with the beginning of the school holiday. In Guatemala, people gather at the cementery to honour their dead by flying big kites (barriletes). In preparation for these celebrations, we prepared our barriletes days in advance (alternatively, we bought kites-ready made). The kites made out of long and skinny pieces of wood and colourful paper.

The kites were made of different sizes. The bigger kites were obviously for bigger and older children. I remember learning to make a kite (a metre in diametre) with the old of one of my older brothers and feeling like a very grown up boy...!

After flying our kites, we used to go to the tomb of our dead and leave flowers for them. Celebrations used to follow after that. These were happy times.

http://www.batoco.org/photos/barriletes_gigantes_de_gu/gigantguatemala006.jpg

Running and things in life that matter

2006-10-30T23:24:00.000+11:00

Running
Well, there has bee no running since the group run with Vicky, Em and Tony… I am taking time to recover from the shin splints, which were annoying me immensely. Time has been taken by other activities that required my attention.

There days when the pain in my lower leg disappears and, at times it is there again as a companion to remind me to let time go past and recover well.

I have received plenty of suggestions as to how occupy my time which otherwise would be occupied with running… To be frank the time has not been available since I have plenty of work, commitments and other interests to keep me occupied. However I am considering whether I should get a personal trainer to keep me focused. After my experience last year with a personal trainer (who insisted on a five times a week program, gym visits and coaching) I am considering whether this is a workable option if I wish to resume training before the end of the year.

Work stuff
Last week I ended up spending a good share of my time preparing for an important presentation of a topic of my professional interest. The presentation went very well and it reminded me of the importance to establish a good and sound credibility on a topic that can set one apart from other experts in the same field.

The point being here is that I believe in certain things and I am passionate about them – so pursuing them should be a matter of priority.

Stand up for freedom
I stand up in support of Amnesty International for freedom of expression on the internet. I wholeheartedly support AI’s point: “Freedom of expression online is a right, not a privilege”.
AI’s statement can be read here and it contains cases of people whose freedom have been taken away:
http://web.amnesty.org/library/index/engpol300542006I
I would like to encourage those who are interested in preserving human rights and the right of expression to lend support to Amnesty International.
Click in the link below to access AI’s website:
http://www.amnesty.org/

Cooking and Wine
In coming days I will be posting some experimental recipes... A bit of flavour, passion and flair! Tasty stuff I have cooked since the Melbourne Marathon.

Climate change
I just heard that the UK's PM has released the Stern report on climate change. I look forwardd to reading it and joining in in any action to make a difference.
The BBC also has a comprehensive section on climate change and it provides good coverage of the report.

Running with a Kiwi and two other Ausrunners

2006-10-22T19:19:00.000+10:00

The Columns that are not the Pillar’s meeting point!

This morning, four Ausrunners ran around The Tan and then from Anderson St through Federation Square via the Yarra Trail – in what it is now known as “Em’s training track”. There are many ways the sequence of events of this sunny spring morning can be told. This is the story how I recollect this morning’s run.

I collected Vicky from her hotel just before 8am. Vicky is our Auckland’s Ausrunner friend, who happened to be visiting Melbourne this weekend. Agreement was that Ausrunners would meet at the Pillars and promptly I discovered that we had different interpretations to what the ‘pillar’ landmark was. Em’s landmark (and, to that effect, the majority of people) is that it is the point where The Tan faces the river. In other words, it is the 3.87km mark – the end or the finish, the section in Alexander Avenue that connects to Swan St. Unless you are like me - living in the clouds, you were led to believe the ‘pillar’ landmark was the Police Memorial (at the bottom of Government House Drive), the 2.75km mark. Wrong. The pillars are those twelve inconspicuous rocky pyramids used for stretching and other banalities on Alexander Avenue.

So just before 8AM I parked my car in what I thought the meeting point was. After a few minutes wait and not seeing Em or any one else, Vicky and I started to run, clockwise – we started gently and wondering if we would meet other Ausrunners. Undoubtedly Vicky was polite and refrained from expressing any disappointment, but about eight minutes later we crossed paths with another face I have seen regularly around The Tan. I simply called EM! There was she – with her usual gear and orderly running posture – inimitable. Tony (TB) was with Em. Both were running anti-clock wise and wondering what happened to us…

We chatted for a minute and then the four of us commenced our run together, in a fashion order at times the four of us along the path and other times in pairs… Amazingly Em and Vicky checked their watches and clicked lap start buttons. (Surely Em will release the technical data of today’s run – which was completed in under an hour).

The only other Ausrunner I had previously met was Em. So it was an absolute delight to meet Vicky and Tony today. Invariably meeting them today was like meeting old friends … I knew so much about them via email, blog and the forum. Today’s run comprised one lap of The Tan and when we reached the intersection of Anderson and Alexander Avenue instead of tackling the hill for the second time we took the Yarra Trail (as suggested by Em) and ran towards the Federation Square and then we connected again to The Tan and ran till the corner of Anderson and Alexander and returned to the Pillars… just before we completed the run we sprinted. The honours of the sprint go to Tony (who professes not to be a sprinter) and Vicky (whose running determination, strength and focus is outstanding).

During the course of our run today we spoke about so many things – ranging from running stories through life related stuff to future running plans. We even spoke about some of the usual discussions in the Ausrun forum. Vicky will be competing in the Auckland Half Marathon next Sunday and we reaffirmed our faith in that Vicky will have another awesome run as she had last week when she got a PB for the 10km. There is no doubt that Em’s running performance can only go from strength to strength and 2007 promises to be a stellar year for Em.

Our Kiwi visitor was not only on a superb form but sharp on her running effort, considering that she was in Hobart for four days last week and then shopping in Melbourne and having a ripper of a night in a thriller rugby match at the Dockland stadium last night. Dont forget the three current hours difference between Auck and Melb.

After we completed the run, we went to breakfast to 181 Domain. Should not be surprising that two runners had pancakes and the other two runners had Benedict eggs with salmon. We chatted further about our running experiences, other people's running races, but particularly we spoke about our Melbourne Marathon ups and downs.

Three and a half hours later, we parted ways. We said farewell to our Kiwi friend and wished Vicky the best of luck for next week’s Auckland half marathon and we said we expect a comprehensive race report.

Amazingly, Vicky not only knows now the landmarks of The Tan, but yesterday she sighted the wombat combat runner…! . In a city of more than 3 million people we let our visitors see some of our very own peculiar people. That’s spooky, folks! I wonder what the wombat's life story is.

Postscript One
What constitutes a pillar? Damm it! Who cares, really? Most critically, the main thing is that we had a nice run together and shared common stories.

Obviously... the pillars are those vertical cylindrical columns associated with wisdom, rather than those columns (or structure) supporting a monument…

Postscript Two
This was my last run for a few weeks, so I believe, if I want to get rid of the shin splints that have been bugging me for the past seven weeks. There’s no doubt that I have found so much enjoyment in those long runs … it has been terrific to build strength to run more than 20 kilometres at a time. So if I wish to return training for another marathon in the first quarter of 2007, I better take time to recover.

Postscript Three
One Ausrunner, who should remain nameless for the time being, has agreed to give a go at the bin cold bath (strange, isn’t it?)!
Details, such as size of the wheelie bin, duration and reward, needs to be sorted out.

Tut, tut - no stretches!

2006-10-18T22:36:00.000+10:00

No running today and, probably for a while… This afternoon I visited the physio, unfortunately the one I have visited in recent weeks was away. The problem in my lower leg has persisted and definitely it is shin splints, which I knew – simply I wanted to ignore; otherwise I would not have been able to do the marathon. He examined my leg and felt the muscles and the bone and I can tell you that in some parts of my leg it hurt a lot.

I will monitor the situation in coming days and I will see how I pull up, otherwise I will go for a scan on my lower right leg.

As the physio was examining me today and telling me I was mad with the running (okay facing up now, happy?) – a feeling of pleasure and satisfaction crossed my mind because it was pure determination that got me through the finish lane at the Arts Centre on October 8. A normal person would have waited for things to improve and then run a marathon.

I was silly enough to tell him: imagine if my legs had been better, I would have done a better time than the 3h38m… “Masoquismo puro y sencillo” (masochism put simply). That’s a different story now.

The physio asked me if I had another event in mind, to which I responded yes. He then said, you need to do no running for six weeks, do cycle or swin; then return to training and you will be ready for another crack at a long event.

Prior to the Melbourne Marathon an English friend send me an email when I was telling her about my lower leg problems. One sentence speaks thousands: “Tut, tut - no stretches!”

Three hundred million people in the USA
The population of the United States of America reached 300 million people on October 17, 2006 - almost 39 years after the 200 million mark was reached on Nov. 20, 1967. According to the US Census Bureau the total population increases one person every 11 seconds. One third of the USA’s population is deemed as ‘minority’ (Goodness me!). Hispanics (sic) continue to be the largest minority group at 43 million. The second largest minority group was blacks (40 million), followed by Asians (15 million).

World population
By the year 2050, the world population is estimated to be 9.4billion. The world population increased from 3 billion in 1959 to 6 billion by 1999. Population growth peaked in the 1960s.

Asia population
In 2002, there were 3.5b people in Asia. By year 2024 there will be 4,375 million and another 500 million people will be added by year 2050.

Meanwhile, Australia’s estimated population was 20.1 million in 2004. By year 2050 the projected population is estimated at 26.4 million. Australia ranks 52nd in population size (2004) and is projected its rank to fall to 64th by 2050.

Run rum blings

2006-10-17T21:10:00.000+10:00

Running... (just)
I went to The Tan today for the first run since the Melbourne Marathon and guess what... I could not run! I only managed one lap (3.87km) and my legs were not responding. This means I am heading back to the physio/doctor asap.
This morning when I woke up somehow I knew something was wrong... there was a pain in my lower right leg which persisted for most of today.

Today's plan was to do two laps around the Tan; one starting slow and progressively build, so when approaching the hill for the second time it would have done at a good pace for a comfortable finish - but this was not meant to happen.

The Tan was quite busy today and there were lots of runners around. I did my run after 6.30pm, starting from near Government House. It was a warm and humid evening. Plenty of dusty, too.

Let's get into the nitty gritty of other more interesting stuff, which is appealing to me:

Boat SIEV-X
Today's The Age carried out a story about the drowning of more than 300 asylum seekers in what is known as the Tampa case in Australia. The boat, known as SIEV-X, sank in the Java Sea on October 19, 2001. This was an action that in many ways has changed the political course in Australia in recent years. Needless to say that both that the Coalition and the ALP should be condenmned by their actions, which in my humble opinion, contravene basic human rights and the right to seek asylum.

Year 2030
Thinking about the future is perhaps something not in everyone's mind. I have recently wondered what the average rate of speed/completion time by then for a marathon will be. Most likely the marathon record may be brought down to around 1h58m , if one is to observe the relative improvoment over the past 30 years.
If the same observation is to be made about the political geography of the world, one has to wonder the many changes we have seen not just over the past 25 years, but 10 or even 5 years. Bearing that in mind, the balance of power is likely to continue to shift and populatious countries may exert greater influence if they manage to sustain intact what is their relative national identity.

Research development and innovation
Invariably emerging economies, not quite the ones booming right now but others who are growing strongly, will reach new heights in development and these may reach new benefits and opportunities to further enhance their capability, innovation and commercialisation of IP and emerging technologies.

Marathon records

I remember reading/hearing about
Alberto Salazar completing the Boston marathon in 1982 in 2:08:51.
Robert Castella completing the Chicago marathon in 1985 in 2:08:48.
Steve Moneghetti completing the London marathon in 1997 in 2:08:45.

In a more mundane topic:

Ah... what a feeling! Finally I download my Melbourne Marathon certificate! (after all this is all about me and my humble rumblings).

Recovering well after the MM

2006-10-13T00:41:00.000+10:00

It's early hours of Friday... the week has gone so quickly, so much to tell so little time to tell. Recovery has happened.

Pictures of the Melbourne Marathon, of which several are online,show a relaxed and amicable facial image of this humble but proud runner. The brutality of it is not there as one would anticipate. The photos at kilometre 37, top of Fitzroy St, St Kilda, and that cheeky smile at the finish lane tell the story of the day. So, the tactical race plan worked very well for me.

I truly enjoyed the experience and am very pleased I took the risks associated with it in order to accomplish what was an unforgetable day of my life. As I went pass signposts of 37,38... 40 km marks the thoughts of joy and happiness was more than enough to overcome the pain and tyranny of the race. (I imagine you as you will only dream of it).

Those who would know the enormity of the challenge, unpreparedness was evident but it was the sheer determination that saw us reach our final point.

El Sindicato Completes Marathon!!

2006-10-09T11:53:00.000+10:00

(Please note this is an unedited version. Written in a rush)

The following is a brief chronicle, which represents a view of Sunday’s experience.

Melbourne, October 9, 2006. Three members Australia’s private syndicate club, Gabriel Mena, Alexis Esposto and Angel Calderon made history yesterday by completing the Melbourne Marathon on a typical spring day when the runners faced four seasons in a few hours (indeed typical Melbourne’s weather) – there was rain at the start, strong coastal wind (at certain points of the course) and oppressing sunny conditions, which made reaching the finish point a rather harder experience for the three brave ‘Sindicalistas’. This was the first ever marathon attempt for those three runners (just don’t say the three amigos!).

The Start – Feeling Nervous

The race, which kicked off from Frankston, commenced fifteen minutes past the scheduled time and this created angst amongst all the runners. El Sindicato runners were not deprived from such angst and this was manifested by their frequent visits to the toilets (mercifully we were not far away from them). The delay was caused by a volunteer so we hear.

Running as a Team

We started the race together and we stuck as one for the first two kilometres when a toilet visit (yes, another one) forced Alexis and Angel off the course and strait into the beach toilets, but Gabriel kept going on. This was clearly an illustration of our state of nervousness. Alexis and Angel ran together for the first five kilometres (at this point in time we were behind the 4hour pacer), but then Angel caught up with Gabriel at around kilometre 6. Gabriel and Angel worked together until kilometre 15 (well past the Mordialloc roundabout), and then Angel, feeling warmer, picked pace. At around Rickets Point, Angel caught up with the 3h.45m. At the same location Gabriel stopped to do some stretching and then he continued.

Progressing through the Flat Territory

The first 14 kilometres of the race were flat, runners travelling smoothly. Our approach was to tackle the first five kilometres really slowly, which paid off. We sustained similar pace until Mordialloc, when there was a slight ascent as we headed towards Warrigal Road. The atmosphere for the first hour was surreal, warming up and staying focused that we had a plan and had to stick to it. There were so many people that went past us but managed to stay on our schedule.

Water stops

We normally stopped at water stations and charged energies. There were no water stations past Fitzroy St, in St Kilda, which was a pity, because at that point in time the sun was very strong and having water would have greatly helped us in the final four kilometres. (Hope the organisors put a water station in St Kilda Road next year).

Stops, encounters and fun

Contrary to what Angel and Gabriel thought the race was far more enjoyable than what they expected. We are making this comparison based on our previous experience when we completed the half marathon at ‘The Run to the G’ event, back in June 2006. Alexis also enjoyed the event although he was forced to run at a slower pace due to soreness in his legs, having to stop a few times for stretching and he walked for more than five minutes.

The runners progressed feeling relatively optimistic from Rickets Point to Sandringham where they knew their friends and supporters were waiting to see them going past. Their first group of supporters were Jane and Marcel who were opposite the Sandringham railway station. They were cheering the runners were optimistically. Just before Dendy St, Brighton, Grace and Casey were waiting to greet us. They enthusiastically were waiving Guatemalan flags! Immediately past Dendy Street, Em and Dom were waiting for us; Em joined Angel and ran with him to just before North Road, giving him a huge morale boost to continue. Just before Martin Street, Brighton, the Calderons (Izzy, Seb and Felix) were waiting for the Latin boys, accompanied of other family members (Carolyn, David, Mim, Charlie and Sam) and friends (Michael, Irene and their two children Joel and Ruben). When Angel spotted them, he immediately moved to the left and stopped to greet them, receiving hugs. A well deserved two-minute stop. Joel and Ruben made the poster which is displayed below.

The boost Angel received around Brighton pushed him to continue with the run and enabled him to main the pace as drawn in the race strategy earlier in the week, which facilitated him to complete the run.

Unknown territory

As Angel progressed away from Brighton and entering into the unknown and untested territory (past the 32km mark), he made his way through Elwood feeling upbeat and somewhat weary that the biggest challenge was about to start – tackling St Kilda’s Esplanade and travelling through Fitzroy Street then making it to the finish lane. The presence of many spectators was a very welcome boost much needed at time the energy levels were beginning to drop. “The time went so quickly, too fast in any case, hard to absorb any enjoyment at that stage of the race” Angel described later on. As he approached St Kilda he knew other non-running members of El Sindicato would be waiting to cheer them. Just before Donovan’s Angel spotted Guillermo, Gonzalo and Victor and that cheered him up so much that he enthusiastically waved his arms attracting their attention. Victor and Guillermo joined Angel for a quick run for about two hundred meters. They talked to Angel enabling him to make his way past St Kilda Pier and progressively made inroads into Fitzroy St, which is known to be a huge test to the stamina of any runner. As Angel made his way to the top of the hill he wished a water station would appear but there was no one in sight – in fact there was no water station until the finish lane.

Once Angel was on St Kilda Road he wished there would be shade - the sun was bright. The boulevard was buzzing with lots of noise from the traffic and spectators cheering up the runners. It was a strange feeling when one enters St Kilda Road because the end is coming, one is close to the end but yet anything could happen, so the excitement of the finish cannot be manifest, conserve energies to push to the end. When one sees the 38kms mark one knows that the hard work has paid that far and the extra energy is needed to make it to the final (no more energy gels far too late). The last four kilometres required extra concentration and forced us to stay upbeat and think not of injuries but the joy of finishing. These four kilometres felt like an eternity, but for Angel, who maintained his relative pace for the past six kilometres but weakening at times, finally made it to the 41km mark when the cheer of the crowd become more intense and the finish lane appeared closer and yet so distant and had to stay working to avoid dropping pace. Angel felt like walking the last four kilometres but his determination to finish running made him to push right to the end.

Finish

As Angel went past The National Gallery the desire for the finish lane to appear was so strong, the legs were beginning to start feeling completely bugged but the crowd and the pain made him get to the finish lane. There was a sound in the crowd that cheered “Go Angel” but it lost amidst the business of the euphoria - Angel completed the marathon in 3h39 minutes…! Later on Jane commented that Angel went quickly in the last hundred metres, but Angel does not have a clear recollection how fast or slow he was going at that moment.

Impresions after the run

Angel
Upon completion of the marathon, Angel commented that he did not feel the pain of the race as much as he was dreading, in any case his positive mental attitude that he wanted to enjoy the day contributed to him finishing well. Angel commented “the fact that I ran the first five kilometres at a slower pace greatly assisted me and, then I managed to stay on course for the first fifteen kilometres – in all of this time I let many runners go past me. Then Angel added, “Progressively I started to build up from Rickets Point as the race moved and progressed through Sandringham and Brighton.”

Angel managed to run at the pace and scheduled as drawn earlier in the week – he expected to complete in 3h45 as ‘best case’ scenario and at the end he did it in 3h39mins.

Gabriel
Gabriel commented that he enjoyed the event immnesively but “I struggled for the past four kilometres”. He said, “I have mixed feeling about today’s event, but I am filled with excitement, very happy about the outcome and the race was a huge mental struggle, but absolutely thrilled I finished”. Gabriel completed the marathon in 4h01m. “It is a great achievement considering we have to build up from a very low base”, he concluded.

Alexis
Alexis commented that it was a very enjoyable experience. However it was the hardest physically taxing event undertaking, he added. “It was a great feeling to finish and I had a great sense of accomplishment, even though I was feeling a lot of pain for the fist 15 kms and despite the wind and the rain the run was terribly enjoying. It was a thoroughly enjoying challenge to have completed. At no time I considered quitting”.
Alexis further commented, “It was great to know that my colleagues and friends also finished the race. It would have been great for all of us to finish all together but this was not possible it would have meant slowing my colleagues and for them not fulfilling their goals.”

Alexis noted that he met a lot of very nice who he helped and helped him to accomplish this marathon. “When I thin I run form Frankston to the city, I think it was a kind of fable, but having finished it made me realised it was real. Perhaps next year I would do it all over again”, he concluded.

The Morning After

Gabriel reports that he feels a bit of pain the in the upper legs. Angel reports pain in the lower legs – shin splints, forced to walk in a funny way. Alexis also reports walking like injured.

We are off to lunch to celebrate and we shall be opening a bottle of the Wynns Centenary Cabernet shiraz 1991 and a 1998 Gaetzer shiraz.

Salud!

Gracias to all of those who supported us in this journey for the past few montsh... more of that later.

Risen to the challenge....

2006-10-08T21:58:00.000+10:00

Melbourne Marathon completed!!!

Race report to be published Monday noon AEST.

Thank you for all your support, encouragement and companionship over the past few months. It has been a marvellous and awesome experience.

The journey is completed but not the destination.

Transitions ... Over the Moon!

2006-10-06T21:26:00.000+10:00

Running philosophy
Enjoy the race, the destination is vital but the experience matters the most.

Running approach
Hydrating in earnest from today. Eating pattern changed last Weds evening, no alcohol since Monday when I had a light glass of beer at a function.
Tomorrow is rest day, combined with a relaxed 3km run, one of my neighbours will accompany me - the running fever seems to be spreading.

Running pals
My running pals are staying at home, we shall have a nice past dinner together and watch some television. Early bed and we shall be driven to the start.

Running strategy
Start slow, enjoy the scenary, feel the love handles (yes, those little hills that will make us sweat and hate the bloody race), energy gel, a big of laughter and get into the "zone". Build strength as we approach the unknown (post 32kms).
Run kilometre by kilometre, not the whole race in one go.

Running gear
For Christ sake... do all caps have to have an imprint of the brand? Forced to buy one but I am considering ironing off the bloody label ... All set and ready to go, including a skin waist pouch.

Mental preparation
Awesome. Sharp and focused.

Mental game
None; I am not into that sort of game.

Injury
Still there. SS if it must be known. A worry but determined to push to the limit. Make it to Brighton to feel the joy of my 'tres gringo lindos' .

Sunday setting
As the runners progress through Melbourne's bayside suburbs and make way to the city listen to:
Alice Russell's "Under the Munka Moon" album (UK). Hardtimes.
Vaya Con Dios's Remember, Dont Cry for Loui, Nah ne nah (Belgium).
St Germain - any of their albums. Too Deep and Yellow Daffodil.
Adassa's "Kamasutra" album. Kamasutra.

Sunday's MM is just there...

2006-10-05T21:39:00.000+10:00

This week has been hectic on the work front combined with functions, lunch meetings and early starts. (One work project is about to finish giving me time to focus on other more critical work stuff.)

This morning, my Thursday's running partner and I went to The Tan for a 5km run, followed by brekky at my favourite cafe. The Thursday's morning run has become a good session because it has become an easy one filled with work and pleasant conversation. Apart from the usual letany of the pain (which is a completely separate story not to bore anyone else here) this morning's workout was a nice and joyful experience. It gets the mind going for a good day. There were not many people around...

Adding excitment to Sunday's race, I am taking Monday off so friends and I can enjoy a nice lunch accompanied with vintaged wines - originally we planned to go to a trendy restaurant but someone has offered to bring some top wines so we can either celebrate or conmiserate.

This week I have only had time to unwrap The Age and look at page one... have I missed anything exciting...? This is unusual for me not to know what's going on the world but it happens at times.

Post MM new projects... running shall continue after a break.

Stay focused for Sunday...

Living with pain whilst running

2006-10-03T22:08:00.000+10:00

I ran two laps around The Tan this evening accompanied with pain. Today's session comprised of stretches, a warm up, followed by one lap running at a comfortable pace, then another lap at a more faster pace. I started running opposite the Barracks and headed towards the hill. I could not tackle the hill at my usual pace because the pain in my lower legs was there again. I am resigned to have the pain on Sunday. During the second lap the pain was more manageable. Finished the session lots of stretching. I return to the physio tomorrow.

A busy day at work today. In fact this week is rather hectic.

TTFN.

Running Illusions - One week to go!

2006-10-01T15:18:00.000+10:00

In anticipation of the MM, Gabi and I ran from Elwood, not far away from Glenhuntly Road, to the Arts Centre, City. We covered the last 7kms of the MM in about 35 mins and assimilating what will be the most challenging stage of the entire race. This morning was very sunny and, at 7 am, we felt was mid morning already. We wondered how the weather will be on the actual day.

Along the course, we met other runners who like us are doing same events. We ended up talking to a girl who is doing the HM but then she is going on to the NY marathon in a forthnight. She was there with her coach, who has run more than 30 marathons. This coach gave us some useful tips and encouragement for a successful first marathon. Main tip: run the first 5 kms slowly... this is vital for the last stage.

Gabi and I started running with an additional t-shirt and we left them hidden in trees along the course, but when we returned they were gone... that's life; that's St Kilda. Gone and forgotten.

It was a very bright and sunny morning and we completed our run at 08.45 am. After that we walked to his home and we stretched along the way. We gained familiriaty with the hill in Fitzroy St, St Kilda... and imagined what will happen on the day. Felt excited and enthused.

I finished the month of September with another 100+ kms... Happy about performance. I return tomorrow to the physio and hope my lower legs do not play up much this week.

What a week-end... plenty of activity and good weather!

Introducing my MM running partners

2006-09-29T21:34:00.000+10:00

I would like to introduce two of my running partners, Gaby and Alexis, who for the past seven months have been an integral part of the journey to run a marathon.

Gabi, Alexis and I have been friends for a long time. Over the past eighteen years we have shared many things in our lives, including the highs and lows, and this is the sort of friendships that are not often seen. In many ways, we have had parallel lives, most importantly, all of us have experienced our adult life in this country. These friends are like family (in the absence of one’s real family due to the mercy of geography).

Gabi

Alex

For the past seven months we have not been alone in this journey. Rodri has also run with us, but unfortunately he is unable to join us on October 8 due to a commitment interstate. The four of us did the ‘Run to the G’ Half Marathon in June 2006. Our friends from “El Sindicato” (a group of eight outspoken and smart Latinos – all from different Latin American countries #) have been very supportive of this enterprising and crazy idea to run a marathon. Those friends, who we have built up a strong friendship over the past eighteen years, have kept us company, provided encouragement and enlightened us in our running trails. Our usual Monday night dinners at the Rose Hotel in Fitzroy have been a central point of discussion and review of our training progress. We have even met for Sunday breakfasts after the run either at The Tan or at the Coast Trail.

For the past seven months, Gabi, Alexis and I have supported each other in maintaining our commitment to run the Melbourne Marathon. We are lacking the experience, depth and endurance - unlike many others who are attempting it next week, but we certainly have the resolve and drive to succeed. It is the sheer determination that will see us at the starting lane and hopefully -as we make progress towards the City – have the strength to make it to the finish lane.

Back in March we ran 5-10 kms with inconsistency and, progressively we managed to build it to the 15 kms. As an illustration of our inexperience, my posts around May recounts our relative excitement and progressively milestones - we completed an 18kms run around the Maribyrnong River. Gabi, Alexis and Rodri successfully completed the “Run for the Kids’ back in May 2006. Prior to that, Gabi did the Marafun at the Melbourne Marathon in October 2005.

Earlier this year, Gabi returned to his beloved Argentina and had an amazing adventure of conquering the Aconcagua Mountain. After four years of tenacious work, Alexis completed his PhD in Economics and now he is able to have time to enjoy things for which he has a passion and give him comfort.

Our training has not gone without trouble. We all had time out – Gabi lost five week of training due to a knee injury, Alexis seven to a calf problem and me three weeks due to troubles in my lower legs.

At the end of the preparations for the Melbourne Marathon we only managed to run a maximum of 30 kms three times and ran almost 600 kms over the past seven months. This may not be sufficient but we have done the training we could fit with our busy lives and now we wait for what October 8 will bring. Now it’s all in the psychological preparations.

Our families, associates and friends have understood the nature of this commitment and they were very accommodating and sacrificed quality time so we could go out and run.

# NB - Victor, Arie, Gonzalo, Guillermo and Richardito.

Running providing clarity in thought processing...

2006-09-28T21:13:00.000+10:00

No running today. Another hectic week so far - this appears to be somewhat the norm at present, however things should slow down in coming weeks. I yearn for that normality in one's daily routine.

Even though there was no running - let's say there was mental preparation for October 8, which probably counts for nothing but it makes me feel better.

There are times when one needs to withdraw and reflect on things that happened. This is something that running has taught me in recent times. Taking stock is something that does not yield with me but it is something that it's worthwhile for the long term - it's keeping things in perspective. Again I return to the actual process of preparation (the journey that enables to reach the destination) rather than the outcomes. Everyone now and then I return to the old habit of focussing on the outcome when the process counts as much as the outcome. In recent days I had opportunity to reflect on the beauty of running in that it has been a good mental processing machine for me. As a way to illustrate the point, I had a presentation at a forum at which seventy five people attended and I was the first to present and the feedback received was very positive; apparently I set the scene for the rest of the day so the organisors told me this morning. Unlike other presentations I made this one was characterised by the fact that I thought about what I wanted to say at times I was running, this is to say, running provided me with the nurturing environment to think the scope and key points of my presentation. Clarity. And now, to another point, venturing to write 100 things about me was perhaps a bit daring of my part but one that I enjoyed immensively, felt confident I could say the things I said (although I am tempted to modify certain said things).

After all, running has been a marvellous journey (life was already that way but further enriched with running).

101 things about me...

2006-09-26T20:24:00.000+10:00

I was born prematurely (6months, 3weeks).
I have hazel eyes.
I have fair skin and have freckles in my face.
I cut my hair short now to hide the fact that I have grey hair
I am the fifth out of six children (4 boys, 2 girls).
I had a happy childhood and I have very fond memories growing up.
My favourite colour is blue although I like green.
I enjoy holidays on the beach and I enjoy bushwalking.
I used to be a student leader – primary through senior school. I was involved with the Boys Scout and Red Cross (These activities saved me a few times when I got into trouble).
I organised a student strike and took over my college.
I smoked once with friends when I was 8 and did not like it. Never smoked ever since.
I had a great time at school. I used to play all sports and did theatre and chased girls.
I like to dress well. Paul Smith is my favourite label.
I don’t have tattoos – don’t mind if others do.
I have funny toes. This brings me to the next: I am ticklish.
I respect people and accept them the way they are. Don’t question their values and integrity.
I have a strong sense of who I am. I am very happy with myself and of my achievement.
I was told to leave my home country – forced into exile. I lived in exile for seventeen years before returning to my home country, G*.
I have always wanted to live in Spain or France.
I will go and live in Europe sometime in the future.
I have lived in different countries and open to the idea of moving again - anywhere.
Spanish is my native tongue – I would love to learn to speak French (handy when I get a job in Paris). I understand Italian.
I love poetry and reading good fiction book– although I don’t have much time these days.
I can’t remember when I got drunk for the first time – it certainly was around Year 9. Some friends and I used to go and have a few beers at a bar not far from school. One of our teachers sometimes joined us.
I had my first girlfriend when I was 11.
I am romantic; a dreamer; I am a caring person.
I moved to Australia in the mid 1980s. I originally planned to go and live in Quebec (I would be a French speaker now!).
When I told my parents I was going to live in Australia they were stunned. We knew more about NZ than Australia at that time (due to NZ’ opposition to nuclear weapons).
The Herald Sun published a story about me years ago and I said I wanted to be involved in politics – I am glad I have stayed out of it. Politics almost killed me and destroyed family life, as we knew it then.
I did not speak any English when I first arrived in Australia.
I studied journalism and worked as a foreign correspondent for various media organisations in Latin America.
I studied sociology and political science at uni. I hold a BA and MA in social research.
I have a very good group of friends; I make friends easily.
People say I am very friendly and intuitive. I usually know how people are before I get to know them well.
I am divorced. That will be another list of one hundred things on its own.
I have three of the most gorgeous and well-adapted children.
I have joint custody of the children.
I have fulfilled many of my childhood ambitions. I have others in train now.
I am very happy with life. Feel blessed I have had a very adventurous and challenging life.
I like to stay active; I am an outdoors person.
I am an independent thinker.
I have lived in Australia for the past 21 years and have gone abroad 19 times during that time, combining work and pleasure.
I am Leo. I am confident and have learnt to be a humble person (it was a great survival tool).
One of my brothers was kidnapped 24 years ago and he has not been found. This is one of the reasons I left my home country.
I always wanted to run long distance but thought I could never do it. So this October I am attempting my first marathon.
I hate running but I have convinced myself that I enjoy long distance.
I enjoy cooking and trying new things.
I am going to start lesson paintings after the marathon.
I enjoy red wine – Pinot Noir is my favourite. Although a good vintage Cab or Shiraz is not to be missed.
I worry about things.
I am used to deal with uncertainty and thrive in difficult times.
I am a very resilient person – this fact helped me a lot during the separation process.
One day I will make a film about growing up and the revolution and about friends.
I always wanted to have a book published by the age of 25 but missed the deadline. Then I shifted to 30 and missed it again. Although I have co authored papers with others for several journals.
I am now starting the process to write about my life experiences. This is part of the journey.
I go to work by train. I work in the city and live bayside.
I enjoy going to wineries and trying new wines.
I don’t have pets at home – I would not mind getting a dog sometime in the future.
I don’t play an instrument although I wish I learnt to play guitar or violin.
I am a cheeky person. People tell me I am a teaser.
I don’t tell too many jokes because I often forget the punch line.
I like spontaneity.
I eat anything even brussell sprouts.
Drink one to two glasses of water first thing in the morning, followed by muesli and fruit. I have been doing this for years and years.
One of my secondary school teachers jokingly used to say that I was a terrorist. I never liked that joke.
I am enjoying being in my 40s more than in my 30s, I certainly enjoyed my 20s. My teen years full of activities and I felt like I could conquer the world!
My 20s were very challenging and rewarding times – so were my 30s but loaded with stress.
I have done my share of stupid things in life – I could make a long list.
I am a dreamer; if it has not come cross yet – I repeat it again: I am a dreamer.
At the age of 21 I had written a book of poetry but I was too shy to get it published.
I am a very skinny person. Everyone tells me to eat more and put some weight on. I don’t like when people tell me that.
Every time I have tried to put on weight it has not worked.
I am a very tolerant person – I believe in people and give them a bloody good go.
I don’t dwell on the past – I look forward to tomorrow and to the future.
My wine collection was stolen last year from my garage; the insurance company paid money back.
I lose interest in things quickly.
I am an outcomes oriented person. Running has helped me with learning about process rather than focusing on outcomes.
I have not yet decided which film is my favourite. I liked The Sting, Sideways, Goodbye to Lenin, Ten Days that Shook the World, Chicago, Apocalypses Now and the original Star Wars, Guns of Navarone and World's Fastest Indian.
I used to play with my youngest sister and we pretended we were broadcasters.
I used to be scared of the water. I almost drown when I was a little boy. I can’t swim too well. I enjoy going to the beach.
I don’t dance either – people tell me to seat down.
Berlin is my favourite city, followed by Amsterdam.
I like changing television channels, although I don’t have much time to watch it. I like CSI, ER and used to watch all the popular series.
I wear contact lenses – bad stigmatism.
I love listening to music – I have a good collection of CDs, jazz, salsa, blues, dance, electronic, pop, classical.
I hate to admit this but I enjoyed Abba when I was a teenager. I don’t like Kylie. I like Coldplay, Goldstrapp, Zero 7, Gwen Stefani. I enjoy listening to St Germain in the car and driving in the country. Awesome electronic, contemporary music.
I like seating at a bar with a drink and listening to a jazz band. I like having a good conversation.
I notice if people have new clothes, changed hairstyle.
I avoid trouble at all cost.
I mean what I say.
I like being direct.
I like honesty in people and I don’t like playing games with people. I don’t lie and don’t tolerate people lying to me
Usually I don’t talk about personal things if I don’t know people. I don’t open myself to anyone.
I am very professional. People say I inspire others to excel.
I don’t think I am stubborn (although recently someone described me that way), in any case I am determined.
I know what I like in people and in life in general.
I have a taste for good things in life.
I would not go back and live in Latin America again.
I would like to die at the age of 99, writing the last page of a story to be published.
I have not seen the fairies but when I was 8yo I saw a phantom riding a black Arabic horse in the highlands at midnight. It was very scary!
I would love to live to 100.

And the 101:

I am easily teased. I enjoyed compiling this list. I am fascinated by reading what people write about themselves in their diaries and blogs.

Credits: Em, Vicky and Beki... Gracias chicas, for the encouragement!

Illusions no more... it's a reality

2006-09-24T11:36:00.000+10:00

Extra - Dog Collision!

I feel like a child … I am very excited for what is ahead. Today, in two weeks time is the big day, MM. I am beginning the mental preparation for what is coming. I have not had the optimal preparation (I am only running three times peer week) and have been running since March. I have made compromises and varied commitments (at some cost), but it has been a wonderful journey. I have come along way since March when I was used to running 5-8 kms to now, able to tackle 30kms in one go. So at the end of the day the END destination is important but the journey itself has been a wonderful experience. So if I make it all the way to the Arts Centre that is a huge gain.

This morning, I run with Gaby from Elwood Canal (Glenhuntly Rd) to Half Moon Bay and back to Elwood. We started at 6.50am when there was not much wind, but there was so much humidity. After stretching for some time we started a slow run and in no time (it felt that way) we made it to the Brighton Baths and continued along the Coast Path – hardly anyone was around at that time. We continued our run through the bushes enjoying the tranquillity and the sound of the sea… We talked a bit but mainly concentrated on our own challenges and managing our pains – Gabi feeling tired and me still having lower leg troubles, nonetheless we made it past Sandringham feeling upbeat. We left the Coast Path and continued on the main path until Half Moon Bay and started to head back to Elwood.

Again today I had another dog experience…. @#$%! Yes, another ******* encounter with a dog (a big one this time, mind you). The owner was distracted and the thing was running loose in the bush and we collided and had to jump so much to avoid me falling over the dog. The thing is all of this happened so suddenly and in a section where visibility was pretty much restricted to two metres. Years ago I was bitten by a dog cycling along Collingwood and required to undergo treatment.

The wind got stronger as we approached Sandringham and certainly helped us to make it to Half Moon Bay. However in our way back, from Bay Street, Brighton to Elwood we simply had to work so far to stay on course… we were running against the wind and had to work very hard to continue. We finally made it back to Glenhuntly Road, feeling satisfied that we run over two hours.

The illusion of the MM is no longer there as it is all becoming a reality. It is the outcome of many months of preparation.

Now… off to Lancefield. I am searching for a sideboard table and bedside tables (French provincial style). Like in anything in life, I know exactly the one I want, it is just a matter of finding it.

Glimses of the MM when I drove past...

2006-09-23T21:22:00.000+10:00

Yesterday I felt my legs were getting worse... and because I had a very hectic week i did not have much time to put ice and massage them. Today I returned to take the anti-inflammatory and the pain has eased.

Today I went to Red Hill and Flinders and on my way back I took the MM course to Elwood... ah!! excitement but apprehension at the same time. It will all happen in two weeks time. Now I now some of the key points and I hope the day is neither windy, nor rainy nor sunny. Hope it is just a good day to go for a long run.

I look with great interest to October 8, but I am also anticipating what follows after that. I am equally excited about other projects which I would like to start in the near future. Indeed I will take a couple of weeks to rest and I will continue to build for longer runs.

Running long distances has been a very positive experience for me and I treasure these occassions.

No running as scheduled...

2006-09-21T20:03:00.000+10:00

No running today. My injury seems to have returned and decided to take things easy, anyway. Past few days have been hectic at work, having to prepare for two presentations... one which will be done tomorrow for an audience of 70 poor buggers.

The pain persist in the right lower leg - probably it is the tibia.

If I am allowed to talk about food... yesterday I prepared two types of stock (fish and prawn) for a paella that I shall cook tomorrow night. It's all in the early preparation for a good meal. Put your heart and mind into it and it shall taste delicious.

Sunday AM should be good - along the Coast Path.

Thanks Jaykay and Em for bringing to my attention an incorrect spelling in my previous post. My hands are not as fast typing as my thoughts flow through... Muchas gracias chicas guapas!

Wombat has changed hair colour

2006-09-19T21:26:00.000+10:00

This is my 70th post about running... Am I nuts? Probably, probably not, because running is not the focus of my life, but it is nonetheless one that I am talking about and one that, even though I say I dont like running, I am truly enjoying. There are more things to talk about - but right at the moment this blog is all about running.

So, today I ran two laps around The Tan, with my Tuesday partner, David. We cruised through the first lap without much hassle but noticed that the northerly wind was really strong - gutsy, I would say. Towards the end of the first lap, the wind was strong that I almost stopped.

I must say that the pain in my right leg persist - this is buggering me and hope this does not become a major issue for October 8. The pain is not just in my lower leg but every now and then it feels in the upper part and feels in my back leg. I am returning to the physio on Monday. I may rest for the rest of the week - but then knowing me I may back on the track on Thursday. I did more stretching today and hope to continue doing so everytime I run.

For this Sunday I may do an easy run along the Coastal Path... probably it will take about 100 emails to organise it among the boys.

BTW, I saw the Wombat today again and noticed that the colour of his hair has changed.

Should there be a dog/owners' lane?

2006-09-17T14:03:00.000+10:00

Today: 16 kms
Month: 79 kms

This morning I had an enjoyable run, along the Coast Path, covering Brighton and Sandrigham. Gaby and I ran along North Road and discussed how things may evolve on October 8.... this morning was sunny and we felt the heaaaaat and wondered if the same weather will persist in three week's time.

We started our run slowly, chatted about life and other things that matter a bit less, and progressively picked up pace. We stopped a couple of times to do stretches. We are both recovering from injuries so we felt important we paid attention to our bodies. There were lots of people running around and many runners were surely doing their training for the MM. In our way back we did not go through the bush path but stayed on the same pedestrian path and we ended up meeting with Arie who was cycling to Ricketts Point. We also stopped at the Brighton Baths and did not see any of the regular folks so we run back home.

In the section between Brighton Paths and North Road there were so many dogs and their owners... and guess what... we NEED A LANE DEDICATED TO DOG OWNERS so we keep them out of runners' way. We were forced to stop three times because the bloody dogs were coming in front of us. (Should dog owner leashes be that l-o-n-g?) I understand it is spring time but we have to keep the dog owners on their leashes. When you have been running for a while and you are forced to stop because of an obstacle your legs hurt, besides one loses rhythm and wastes time. As a runner we need to keep out of cyclists and other pedestrians - so why dog owners don't do the same and everyone can live peaceful existence...? Comprende!? Capish!?

After the run, we went to the Beachcombe, St Kilda Pier. The group comprised Arie, Gaby, Richard and I, plus two other joined in for a cup of coffee... About the place: Breakfast serves were big and tasty but coffee was rather average. Coffee served cold. Points given for bringing iced water with lemon!

This week promises to be a big in running:
- Monday: Run with Alexis and Gabo... they need to decide if they are ready for the MM or HM.
- Tuesday: The usual tan run
- Thursday: Morning run at TheTan again
then the usual Sunday run... this one should be gentle run.

It is also a big work week... presentations to deliver and prepare reports and spend time scoping new projects. Aggggh!

Life is hectic but thinking of the running - Gathering thoughts for the long run

2006-09-16T18:58:00.000+10:00

G-e-e-e! Life has been hectic (too many commitments and not enough reasonable hours in the day). Am I the only dumb one to take too many things on in one single week?

I ran last Thursday morning and until now I have a moment to reflect on the run. Just before 7am I received a txt msg asking whether i was running with one of my work colleagues... We had agreed that Thursday AM will be our time for a run at The Tan. So I said yes and in a matter of five minutes I got organised and out of the house to collect Emma. We only ran one lap around The Tan. My legs were not responding and I still had pain in my lower legs.

To cut a long story short, my legs were hurting for most of Thursday but since then they have felt much better - they still feel tense but not as much as for the past fornight. I am returning to see the physio on Monday morning - had to cancel my Friday appointment due to other work commitments.

I am hopeful to run tomorrow with Gabo for about 20kms around the Coastal Path... this has been our regular running track for the past two months. It is nice to see the water and the ships from the distance, specially this is so nice those days when there is not much wind. The tranquility of the water and the fact that one is within the city but having that bush atmosphere is simply comforting.

This week I ran a total of 42 kms. I suppose this is half what many of the serious runners will do in a normal week. Hopefully in coming days I will be able to run a bit more often.

I am beginning to find boring eating too much pasta. I may have to diversify my cooking pasta repertoire / habits... any new and interesting recipes, please email me... (no Donna Hays, thanks).

One helpful thing about the running is that it has been such a magnificent stress reliever and has helped me to sort out my thoughts on a number of different things. The long runs have been particularly good to deal with dilemmas... but a trap is that one can get into that dream mood - dangerous but excillating.

Ps - A huge thanks to all those who alerted me about the meaning of stubborness... After all I am one. I suppose when one has had a life surrounded by risk and life changing situations, adaptability is just a natural state. Not so for others.

One wonders if life should stay perennially the same in order to strive in life. A challenge is always estimulating to evolve as a human being.

Learning to finish the job before getting on with the new one

2006-09-12T21:52:00.000+10:00

Old habits don't go away... I am already wondering what I am going to focus on after October 8. There are a few options under consideration. I ought to focus on accomplishing the MM. I cannot start thinking about other things before finishing the goal I set at the start of the year - whether I like it or not I must persevere a little longer.

This evening I run two laps around The Tan and finished running fast for the past 750 mts... which made me feel good - particularly around my lower legs which are still feeling the strain of the pain and sore muscles. Having said that. today's run was a relatively easy and booooring if you really push me to comment. I had company which was good but there was no challenge. Besides there were too many people running around, including that feral fellow who runs like a maniac around (some of you know who i am referring to) so we have to stick away from training herds and those zebras walking like they are the only ones in the planet.

For those who I have bored with the whingeing about me 'hating' running I have to say that I find far more challenging a long run than a short run. I am beginning to get used to the idea that there is a certain threshold of pain involved in a long run and I find it more stimulating and rewarding than simply hitting the road for say 8, 10 or 12 kms. I suppose it is a question of preference. Speaking of preferences, I run today with a NB fiber singlet which I bought last Sunday and I must say I prefer running with 100% cottom shirts.

I received three email messages today about my post from yesterday commenting on my note about my little stubborness. Apparently I indulged myself - but no specifics were mentioned so I take it as people are having fun.

A little stubborn first time ever

2006-09-11T23:01:00.000+10:00

I had another visit to the physio today and there has been progress on my lower legs. The pain is now on the side of the feet and attribute that to the new runners, which are getting used to the new 'comfort'. Thank God to the anti-inflammatory - which appear to be working, but also thank the determination / stubborness to run that many kms yesterday.
Believe me I have never been a stubborn in my w-h-o-l-e life, until now with the running.

Running for the next few days as follow:
I am running tomorrow evening around The Tan, combined with minimal sprint work and I hope my legs respond much better.
Thursday morning another run around The Tan.
Sunday a long run 18-21 kms... I am beginning to slow down and let legs rest.

I am beginning to wonder what is / follows after October 8... I am beginning to ponder some options. Life is just amazing. Little things can make a difference.

Ciao for now.

Defining moments: I was in Porto, Portugal when the events of Sept 11, 2001, occurred. I lived the fears of uncertainty then there. Five years later the world is a divided place as to what has changed and where we are heading as a society and collective of races and cultures. The power of a single date in a turbulent society...!

A happy run after all the leg troubles

2006-09-10T12:06:00.000+10:00

I should not have run that much today but... I did it; a total of 30kms and finished just before I felt exhausted ... I started running from Ricketts Point and headed towards Mordialloc and back to the starting point for a total of 12.8kms. I run these 12.8kms with the new runners (Brooks; see pic below), which I purchased yesterday at Active Feet, then changed to the old runners (Asics GT2110). I continued my run until I past Brighton Railway Station and then I headed back to Ricketts Point.
I run 17.4 kms with the old runners which, of course, felt totally different to the new ones. The runners provide me with more steady support not only in the arch but also in the back of the feet, where I need greater support.

After running the first 12kms I took one of the energy gels - I thought it would taste bloody awful but it tasted okay. I took a second one 50 minutes later - when I saw a water fountain so I could stop and safely take the gel and drink water. I must say that I felt more directly the effect of the first gel than the second one.

I did the run by myself because the other runners were not around. However I ended up having breakfast with Richard, Arie, Guille and Gonzo at the teahouse in Ricketts Point. Curiously I completed the run at the time I predicted to Arie last night. These folks cycled from their homes and I saw Richard when I was running which was nice because for a moment we chatted and this provided me with some encouragement - twenty minutes before I completed the run.

So, where am I in relation to the October event..? I am going to see again the physio tomorrow morning. I continue taking the medicine, which is a stronger anti-inflammatory than the one I started to take earlier on the week. I felt pain when I was running but it was all manageable. I still feel I can run 30 kms comfortably but this leaves a question mark about the other 12 kms in order to do the marathon. This week I decide whether it is a HM or full marathon - I originally intended to decide on Sept 1.

Thank God I decided to take anti-inflammatory and concentrated on tackling the potential sources of my leg problems - which I attribute to muscle stress.

Combining the time I used for warming up (including 1.5kms walk and moved car in cark par and running I was on the road for 2hrs50mins. A nice effort considering all my leg problems for the past two weeks. I am happy with today's run.

Finally, Rickett Point teahouse could improve the quality of its food. The breakfast was average; food and coffee need improving. Nice atmosphere though.

Sticking to the plan despite the adversity

2006-09-08T18:52:00.000+10:00

Ahhh! Another visit to the physio; twice this week. The pain in the lower legs persist and I have started to take a stronger anti-inflammatory which required a visit to the medical centre so I could get a prescription. I received another massage, yes, one of those that are so deep in the muscles and once feels the tissues and you either have the choice to scream loudly or moan like there is no tomorrow. I followed Sharon's (an Ausrunner) suggestion to wear my bispectales rather than contact lenses...

This morning the pain in my right leg was so tenuous that I started to feel like stopping training. I struggled to understand how after seven months of preparation could be jeopardised right at this moment - four weeks before the big event I have nurtured all this time. I had a flash back when I started this blog (first item published on April 28) thanks to the inspiration drawn from Em - another Ausrunner. After today's visit to the physio I gained some confidence that I will be at the starting lane. I will get a new pair of runners this weekend so I can rule out any possible cause of the problem I am experiencing.

Let's put it this way, the physio I am visiting is encouranging me to continue training and visiting him. A typical supply-demand case. I suppose it works both ways.

I bought energy gel for the first time today and I shall give it a go this week-end when I attempt to run a long distance. I am hopeful that this time I shall have better luck in covering distance, unlike last week-end.

An another thing... somehow I have milked sympathy at work this week - so many people have been so encouraging and that on its own is very impressive. I feel like I have to honour a public commintment all in the pursuit of a personal goal. Marvellous really!

That's all folks!

Ps - I just worked it out how to link; so from now on expect me to provide links to other sources, where appropriate and where credit is due.

Runner without his [work] clothes...

2006-09-07T21:15:00.000+10:00

The highlight of this week has been my visit to the physio and the painful massage - but no pain no gain. Let's put things in perspective, this morning I hit the running track with a work colleague at 7.30 am and we did one lap around The Tan and then we sprinted three times up the hill... oh! gosh... that was a hard work, but I survived. I did not mind having to bear the pain because I knew that after breakfast I will be taking an anti-inflammatory.

Friday morning I will go to the physio and I hope I will be able to do a good run this Sunday - keep my fingers crossed.

I had today an embarrassing situation... I left my work clothes at home! I had put all my stuff in my car last night and my running partner rang to say she was coming to pick me up... so I got everything else but not clothes. After the run i went to the shower room at work and realised had no shirt and suit to wear, fortunately i had a spare 3/4 shorts and a t-shirt, so all day I wore such clothes... everyone in my office was amused. Believe it or not but my productivity was higher - I felt relaxed all day long. As a typical boy, I milked the situation to my advantage - I turned a negative into a positive and, fortunately no one played a funny joke on my today.

I will book a massage for early next ... I discover there is a masseur not far away from my house... a beaut!

Tampering with nature and feeling upbeat

2006-09-05T19:58:00.000+10:00

I went to the physio yesterday and the bugger made me suffer so muuuuuuch... good massage on both of my lower legs. Gee! made me feel the pain so much that even one of my contact lenses came out and had to rush to find it! Both feet are now taped to provide support to the arch which appears to have collapsed... Godness me the diagnosis is positive and shall return running in coming days. I am taking an anti inflammatory (diclofenac sodium) for the next week and I shall return to the physio by the week of the week.

At times of adversity, guess... I strive and manage to move forward.

I had a lengthly conversation with one of my running buddies last Sunday and he's not ready to run yet. Gabi has missed already five weeks of training.

Lately, I have been sooo busy that reading and browsing running blogs and other sites has been rather difficult. My thoughts are that all those preparing for the October event are going well.

On a separate topic, October is looming as another big month. I am schedulling another fabulous feast towards the end of teh month. Yet to decide on the theme, menu, venue and so forth. So I am progressing on the other 'big' goal.

Hey folks... life is too short to live it miserably, stay upbeat and enjoy it. One has to be happy and grateful for what one receives in life.

Unfulfilled long run and managing pain

2006-09-03T10:50:00.000+10:00

I had to stop two kilometres into my [Coast Trail] run; my legs simply were not responding. I thought that stretching will help but it did not. Concern become agony and despair, I did not feel anger but dissapointment. In the face of defeat, I turned back, I even tried to make movements to run and my legs were not cooperating. The reality was that my leg muscles need the rest (is that beause I dont strech long enough?).

Anyway to cut a long story short, I was walking when I saw the runners from the Sandy Bay HM marathon and that inspired me to run, which I started to do at a slow pace and kept going despite the heavy rain. I am glad I persisted because apart from learning to manage pain, I am learning to manage my determination to attain my goal. That on its own merit is a huge bonus.

I then decided to continue running to the end of the Sandy Bay HM and to my surprise I saw people I knew who were watching members of their family competing. I stopped to say hi and a quick chat and then I had enough stamina to keep going and I run at a good pace.

So in the face of defeat (my goal for today was to complete a 30kms run) I learnt to deal with the prospect of months and months of training coming to a miserable stop. My determination will see me through. There are certain elements for which I have to pay attention inc oming weeks: diet, drinking more water, stretching and motivation.

At the end I run for about one and a half hours (short of the scheduled 2.3ohrs) - combining slow, very slow and fast pace... I did not check for distance just glad I was glad to do the run.

First thing tomorrow is a call to the physio to make an appointment to treat those uncooperative legs.

Running vanalities and finishing the month on a positive note

2006-08-31T22:46:00.000+10:00

In a nutshell, life activities have been hectic in recent days and weeks. It is with nostalgia I recall running thrice a week during winter time - that was not long ago! This week so far I only run on Sunday and Tuesday.

I am yet to decide whether I will do the FM or HM this October. Decision time is next week. Event day will be the reward itself of many months of preparation, agony and ecstasy. There have been many gains and, whilst running is not on the top of my list of activities, it is one that I now treasure and value with dear esteem. I am sure i will continue building on long distance runs for years to come.

Work commitments and other vagaries of life prevent me from running more often as I would like to, but I shall persist.

I finish the month of August with a total of 96 kms... not a bad effort after all.

If everything goes according to plan, this Sunday's run should be 30 kms in total distance. I look for that challenge and for catching up with friends at breakfast time (some will be cycling and one/two will join me in the run).

Someone suggested me to engage a sports counsellor to work with me on the motivation factor and race strategy so I can prepare myself for what is ahead. I think I will take a few people out to lunch to a) get tips / build tactics / develop scenarios, b) cheer me up and c) boost my running insecurities ...

One of my favourite sayings is... Life is like a fruit salad. It is like that indeed.

A run with pain and persistence

2006-08-30T06:46:00.000+10:00

This week: 34
Total August: 94 kms

This is a quick post ... I run around The Tan yesterday evening. Two laps, commencing from near the 3km post. I was looking forward to the run because I intended to do some sprint work, but unfortunately that did not materialise because my legs were not responding. I usually enjoy going up the hill in Anderson St and for the first time I literally struggled my way up on the first lap but for the second I felt much better and picked up pace.

Yesterday's run was what I would describe is the pain I shall experience on the day of the Marathon. I imagine that pain will persist from around kilometre 33km. So at the end, yesterday's session was focused around managing pain! I persisted on the run and even managed to finish with a sprint. My running partner, who is not preparing for long distance run, outpaced me on the sprint. So we had agreed that he will work to push me on the sprint.

The interesting thing about the run was that I am learning to focus on different things to keep me going and manage what is happening at that right moment... so I am beginning to notice differences in each session and learning from what is occurring and adjust accordingly.

About food... After a year withouth going to the Perl Hur (Elwood) I dined there last night and the duck wraps were excellent. That is a brand dish from this modern Asian restaurant in Bayside. I highly recommend a visit.

Run a Full or Half Marathon?

2006-08-27T21:12:00.000+10:00

That's the question that is in my mind today. Should I be in a position to do the full or half maraton on Sunday 8 October..? I originally intended that by this time I would have done twice 30kms... well, it has only happened once and I am wondering whether I completed only 28kms.

Today I drove along Beach Rad once again to verify the territory I have covered and the distance does not seem to match with calculations and maps. So, let's put it this way, I am still short of 12 kms build up in order to feel confidence I can do it. On the other I am interested in crossing the line not on finishing on a good time (you see I am not into that sort of stuff!). Howevrer I am wondering on the physical impact and the mental ability to do the full. Time is ticking away to make a decision (whilst it may seem I am playing games, I am genuinely considering my options).

I am confident I can tackle the HM, starting from Rickets Point to the Melbourne Arts Centre. I need to ensue I am happy with what I decide to do at the end.

See map ( click on course and rules):
http://www.melbournemarathon.com.au/.

That's all folks...

Consolidating 25km runs...

2006-08-27T14:30:00.000+10:00

I feel confident I can tackle a HM again...

This week: 26
Total August: 86 kms

This morning I started my run at 07.30 in the morning from Brighton Baths, again. (I know... I am beginning to sound predictable, there was a reason for it though). I headed south as usual. I started at a very easy pace for 15 mins, noticeably my legs were not quite there and I attributed this to the fact that I had not warmed up. Last time I run was last Tuesday, so I was weary today to avoid any unnecessary quick start, but I can say that after running for a total of 2h20mins I feel good and happy.

I only felt of quitting once today... I think this is an improvement. I even notice that the run was not a major effort and this probably a sign I am beginning to get used to the 20-25kms runs, however there is still a long way to the 42kms required for the marathon.

Because I promised some friends I will meet them for breakfast, I started to head back not long after I passed Charman Road, Cheltenham (1h15mins). What I surprised me from today's run was that I was meant to be back at the Brighton Baths at 09.30am and I returned at 09.32am... so I timed it very well.

I had breakfast at the Brighton Baths with friends who had been cycling; the usual runners were not there today. The benedict eggs were nice and tasty but the coffees we had were weak and uninteresting (nb milk did not reach the right temperature). If you are like my friends and I who enjoy a superb cup of coffee, there are so many places in Melbourne where they dont make a good cuppa. I hope this trend stops and we get back to basics about the art of coffee making.

... however I am not quite there to tackle the full marathon.

Running Reflection without Running

2006-08-24T21:10:00.000+10:00

At 08;30am this morning, I sat at my favourite coffee shop. I opened the newspaper and started to read it in such delight; the owner did not come to unwrap the newspaper as he has done previously. I got my usual large flat white and as I enjoyed and contemplated what the day was going to bring for me, I realised that my sense of happiness and fulfillment radiated to the neighboorhod tables... I wonder if the scarf does the trick... There is an element of gratifulness that makes the difference. The wife's owner came to me and asked me if I was feeling good. Affirmatively I responded yes. In all of this, there is an element that each day is different to the rest and as we go each day with our lives, we make a progressive difference. It's all in the effectiveness of such balance rather than the fullness that accounts and matters.

Whether I like to admit it or not, at the end of the day, the running is filling a very important part of my life right now. The levels of stress are so minimal and, yes, these are so low because the running has been a great help.

I have not run since Tuesday but I am beginning the mental preparation for a long Sunday run - although one of my running partners run to request to change it to Saturday... I am considering whether to change it or not. The idea was to have a big group of friends joining us - for a walk, for a run, for cycling or simply join us for breakfast at the end of the exercise.

Right now, I am struggling with sore throat, acheing back and a headache... hopefully it will stay that way. My recipe for getting better quick is honey, lemon, ginger and tequila, combined with hot water and off to bed to sweat the tequila... if it doesn't work at least we get to feel happy and sleep well.

TTFN...

A run of peace and enjoyment

2006-08-22T20:58:00.000+10:00

This week: 32
Total August: 60 kms

What a nice run I had today... two good laps around The Tan, which not only brought me peace but inner enjoyment. This is paradoxical, because on the one hand I say I dont like the running, I enjoy the challenge, but on the other hand I struggle to keep going - often thinking of quitting. I suppose this is the beauty, learning to be disciplined. Godness me... I am persisting..!

I started to run near the 3km mark, because that was where I parked my vehicle after leaving work close to 6pm. (I would like to know why turning into St Kilda Road from Flinders is such a nightmare... surely there could be an underpass/overpass!). There were plenty of people running and, surely lots of them following their program, particularly those running in groups.

I accomplished first lap in about 18 mins and the second one in less than that, allowing for a quick bush search and the regulatory drinking stops. Right at this moment I cannot recall whether I run 8 or 10 kms... but let's leave it at 8, people the extra bit should not count. Although I enjoyed the sprinting for the last kilometre... I found it rewarding. The slow down was a gentle run and a fast brisk walk.

My Sunday post attracted interest of those who personally know me... they were intrigued who/what I was referring to. The beauty of all is the ability for everyone to have their own interpretation. That fulfills a dream and keeps an interest growing. That morning the words just came out. Many years ago I wrote a poem back in Panama, whilst I was visiting this country, about the passing of time and seasons and, how we old grow up old... I cant recall the poem right now, but it was one it came out without thinking.

Sometimes there are things you wish to happen in life... right now, it is a very good time for me - wonderful inner peace (although I wish someone will take away something I need to look into). I am progressing in my goal to train for a marathon, whilst it feels closer I am not in a rush to do it. Still unsure whether HM or full marathon for October. I will test myself this coming Sunday for another crack at the 30kms distance.

As I am driven by events (rathe unusual for an outcomes oriented person), there are things now behind, history. The running has been a pivotal in this process. Building on the long distance has been a marvellous experience.... yet running is not the focus of my life.

Iconoclastic Experience ... Coastal Trail

2006-08-20T17:16:00.000+10:00

Indeed this morning I returned to run along Bayside, running from Brighton Baths to Mentone, for a total of 24/5 kms (TBC).

Today was an interesting experience, whilst it was my first long run in three weeks, it was symbolic in many ways - I still continue to have thoughts of quitting whilst I run, but at the same time I feel the height of running and feel the sensation of enjoyment and the thought of being on the road is simply too much.

Iconoclastics glimses of you today. You were there and I felt you but avoided you. Nothing surprising, euphemeric passion. Come October I will be there; you will be there, too. We will all be there. Today's weather is what October will bring on the day - windy along the coast.

Black Rock. The thoughts were there. "No era ella; no es ella"*, kept repeating myself. Lasted six kms... not even the water stops broke that deep silence. I just kept going. I carried you with me. The distance was there and it was inminent. Don't have hope; hope nothing; believe nothing and take nothing. Fly away as an eagle. Accomplish your goal, succeed and go.

I completed the run as I intended, building on distance. I did not time it and I did not notice the pace and I was simply working on my run and my motivation to keep going.

It was a beautfil and gorgeous Melbourne morning - sun out and it felt like Spring, unusual August.

This Tuesday:The Tan for a quick recovery session an,d another Weds night session yet to confirm location. This coming Sunday I am aiming at runing 30kms. Then decide the event.

Glimses of you in a sunny Sunday morning in the course of the Melbourne marathon.

* She wasnt, you werent.

Ps - Edited note at 21.08pm. Paragraphs 3-5 contained spelling errors and, I added complementary words same pps.

Run after a week of rest

2006-08-16T22:12:00.000+10:00

Yesterday evening I run two laps around The Tan. I felt not only fresh but also relaxed and my knees were absolutely fine. I run with David, one of the fellows at work, who confidently enough likes to challenge himself. We started our run around opposite the Victorian Barracks and headed towards the river; there were so many runners training and was wondering with how many of them I will be crossing paths in October during the Melbourne Marathon.

I did not time the course yesterday and in reality I do not care what the time and running pace were. I simply enjoyed the run and having the opportunity to talk to someone at the same time.

Mentally I feel more confident of tackling the distance and pushing myself. Whatever course I decide to run in October (HM or marathon) I will do it on the basis I wish to enjoy what I do. This is why I do the things I do. Nothing else and I do not compromise on jeopardising a sense of fulfilment and satisfaction in whatever I choose to do.

This is a brief note about the running, but I shall return to what I have done in the past week. I not only celebrated my birthday but also twenty one challenging years of living Down Under. It really struck me what my neighbour said to me the day after the party "you not only have interesting friends but they are interesting to be with". I suppose I am blessed I have friends who over the years have been great mates. We are more like family.

For the rest of this week it will be extremely hard to return to the running.

H.B. CdM

Running with Gusto

2006-08-08T20:26:00.000+10:00

Oh! The knees, the legs, the pace, the feeling, all good.

Fortunately things went well today when I run around the athletic centre at the Mckinnon Reserve. In total, same 8 kms as last Tuesday, involving a combination of exercises so that those legs get in the right frame.

I started running slowly and picked pace as I progressed, legs responded well and I got the rhythm I wanted. Out of the blue I stopped near my car and went to get water and my mobile beeped, I thought it was strange but then I automatically gestured to pick up the phone and a text msg arrived. Telepathy? Who knows. Then I returned to continue with my exercise, without understanding why I stopped.

Enough personal crap, let's get back to the running. I am beginning to notice that the legs are responding better to the running and that makes me very happy. I think now that I have goal, that is to run a long distance, I am enjoying the runs. Let's see how things progress now that I will not run for the next few days.

Ps - Apparently I have been in such a teasing mood lately that someone fooled me today - I fell on my own sword. C'est la vie! When I was running I was thinking how I managed to upset someone who was feeling sensitive but I have now received an email saying I was teased. I am easily teased, too.