Sunday 19 Oct @ Changi Expo. It was a frying hot day and all 10,000+ runners were cooked well done. As usual, I was wondering why I signed up for the 15Km when there was a 10km available. Now I remember....I was attracted by the red freebie NB tee. So mindless. Well, the first 4km was the trail bit. It was uneven and full of rocks just the size to make one stumble and fall. I was ready to quit because I felt like we were in the desert. The start time was 745am and the sun was blazing like a furnace. Never bailed on anything so far so didn't want to start doing that. The awful part was the long, long, shadeless Aviation Road. I refused to run and just did my best power-walk. No desire to get heat stroke. My heart rate was pounding at 160-179bpm running & about 140-145bpm while walking. Unusually high. Must've been the sun. The only bits where I did run was in the shade near the Changi ferry terminal. Well, so glad when completed the event though it took me a good 2hr 18mins. Talk about slow. The only other good thing about this event was the nice toilets. That expo building is wonderfully big with clean toilets scattered all over the place. Lovely.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Sunday, August 24, 2008
SBR & AHM
Singapore Bay Run & Army Half Marathon. Started 630am....finished 945am. Well, I survived. My time was slower than last Dec....but hardly any training. Fortunately the aerobic fitness from cycling helped. The heart is ok....just the legs. It was lovely weather this morning - no sun at all. This is my first time running up Sheares Bridge. Not as steep as I thought it'd be. Nice route. The run along up & down along East Coast always enjoyable - sea on one side. New for everyone was the Expedition Trail beside the Marina Golf Course leading to the Marina Barrage. Bummer was the 16km water point run out of 100Plus & bananas. Drat. So happy I decided to run holding my little Newater bottle. Came in handy when I took my yummy chocolate PowerGel at about 9am. Worst bit of the route was in the Marina South area along Central Blvd with the concrete trucks polluting the air and nothing to look at. There were oodles of puddles here and there and everyone had muddy shoes...especially on the Padang where we ended. Today hundreds of sweaty elbows touched mine the whole 3+ hrs as people squeezed past people to overtake me. So gross. Of course, I was completely drenched in sweat. Began the run needing to pee but that came out as sweat instead. At about 15km my sweat-soaked socks started shifting around in my shoe and I knew a blister was starting to form. We had a lovely shower & breakfast at Singapore Recreation Club. My legs are aching a bit but not too bad. I wonder if I can go cycling on Tuesday. Hmm.
Singapore Bay Run & Army Half Marathon. Started 630am....finished 945am. Well, I survived. My time was slower than last Dec....but hardly any training. Fortunately the aerobic fitness from cycling helped. The heart is ok....just the legs. It was lovely weather this morning - no sun at all. This is my first time running up Sheares Bridge. Not as steep as I thought it'd be. Nice route. The run along up & down along East Coast always enjoyable - sea on one side. New for everyone was the Expedition Trail beside the Marina Golf Course leading to the Marina Barrage. Bummer was the 16km water point run out of 100Plus & bananas. Drat. So happy I decided to run holding my little Newater bottle. Came in handy when I took my yummy chocolate PowerGel at about 9am. Worst bit of the route was in the Marina South area along Central Blvd with the concrete trucks polluting the air and nothing to look at. There were oodles of puddles here and there and everyone had muddy shoes...especially on the Padang where we ended. Today hundreds of sweaty elbows touched mine the whole 3+ hrs as people squeezed past people to overtake me. So gross. Of course, I was completely drenched in sweat. Began the run needing to pee but that came out as sweat instead. At about 15km my sweat-soaked socks started shifting around in my shoe and I knew a blister was starting to form. We had a lovely shower & breakfast at Singapore Recreation Club. My legs are aching a bit but not too bad. I wonder if I can go cycling on Tuesday. Hmm.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Improvement :)
Good grief. It's been 20 days since my last Joyride. How time flies. I was sick, sick, sick. Also, there was other stuff going on so couldn't make it. Good to be back. I really enjoy the few degrees cooler temperature at 5am than 530am. Anyway, just feel the need to record my first step of notable improvement. I stayed with the peloton until Mandai Road near the crematorium. I survived the 3 hills on Upper Thomson & Sembawang Road. I stayed with the pack. Yes! This is very satisfying. I was able to catch up again after the first drop. Second time dropped I about 20ft behind but had Cassandra for company after the zoo.....not bad at all. Third time drop I was turning off to Dunearn Road anyway but I had company with Carol. Nice. Good chatting today.
There are two things I know I need to do if I want to continue improving. First is to build muscle strength for the climbs. That would entail some sort of weight training. Second is to increase the frequency of my rides. As Scott said, after an absence he rides every day and plans a few longer distances. After 2-3 weeks of intense riding, he regains his form.
Good grief. It's been 20 days since my last Joyride. How time flies. I was sick, sick, sick. Also, there was other stuff going on so couldn't make it. Good to be back. I really enjoy the few degrees cooler temperature at 5am than 530am. Anyway, just feel the need to record my first step of notable improvement. I stayed with the peloton until Mandai Road near the crematorium. I survived the 3 hills on Upper Thomson & Sembawang Road. I stayed with the pack. Yes! This is very satisfying. I was able to catch up again after the first drop. Second time dropped I about 20ft behind but had Cassandra for company after the zoo.....not bad at all. Third time drop I was turning off to Dunearn Road anyway but I had company with Carol. Nice. Good chatting today.
There are two things I know I need to do if I want to continue improving. First is to build muscle strength for the climbs. That would entail some sort of weight training. Second is to increase the frequency of my rides. As Scott said, after an absence he rides every day and plans a few longer distances. After 2-3 weeks of intense riding, he regains his form.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
How to do Half Marathon?
In the past month, I have had a cough, cold & been spitting out tons of phlegm not once....but twice. I am now finally well but it's 10 days to the Army Half. Needless to say, I have not been training. I have developed a distaste for running and only want to go cycling. No good. This will be my second Half. Last Dec at Stanchart, I did it in about 3 hrs. I was hoping to improve on my time....now I'm wondering how I'm going to finish.
Thinking of getting a pair of Heely's to help me along. If I walk.....it'll be so hot then I'll get all chow-tar. Sigh.
In the past month, I have had a cough, cold & been spitting out tons of phlegm not once....but twice. I am now finally well but it's 10 days to the Army Half. Needless to say, I have not been training. I have developed a distaste for running and only want to go cycling. No good. This will be my second Half. Last Dec at Stanchart, I did it in about 3 hrs. I was hoping to improve on my time....now I'm wondering how I'm going to finish.
Thinking of getting a pair of Heely's to help me along. If I walk.....it'll be so hot then I'll get all chow-tar. Sigh.
Vasovagal reflex
A lot has been going on. My father-in-law had a silent heart attack and had to undergo quadruple heart bypass surgery on 18 July. We are all well acquainted with Mt Elizabeth Critical Care Unit & Ward 6.....and Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. It was good when he was discharged and is recuperating slowly but surely next door. The Pince family (cousins from Laguna Hills, California) have been in town visiting. Last weekend, we had a short getaway at the Changi Village Hotel.
Last Saturday, we all went to Pulau Ubin to check out the Ketam Mountain Bike trail. This was Tim's 3rd time but my first. It goes around the quarry and if supposed to be of race championship standard - pretty technical. Well, I was concerned for the safety of all the boys as we tackled this course. I off-road much more often than they do and wasn't sure how they'd handle it.
It's really fun. Quite narrow and single track all the way with plenty of hair-pin turns. It was middle of the day hot but we were shaded in the jungle. Anyway, merrily going up and down and sliding along I somehow managed to scratch up my legs. And then.....scrape a chunk of skin off behind the knee on my right leg. It looks raw and I feel the pain....a bit of bleeding. There is no plaster big enough.
We are a big group of 8 and so stop to re-group every now and then. I feel the pain behind my knee and then we suddenly stop to re-group. In a second, my head feels faint...I ask if anyone has a plaster but realize I can't say much else after that. I think I'm off my bike and I lean my hand on the tree to steady myself. Before I know it, I hear Keith warning whoever to grab hold of me because I'm about to faint. True enough, I'm unable to stand any more and am helped to the ground. Slowly I feel blood coming back to my head and things get clearer.
I had a vasovagal reflex most likely triggered by my cut.
The vasovagal reflex, which causes the heart rate to slow and the blood vessels to widen, or dilate.
As a result, blood pools in the lower body and less blood goes to the brain. This reflex can be triggered by many things, including stress, pain, fear, coughing, holding your breath, and urinating.
We are more than halfway through Ketam trail and I'm wondering how I'm going to finish it properly. Fortunately, there is a parallel road (Jalan Wat Siam) where I can exit and head to NParks office to get first aid. Bummer...but that's life.
Fully recovered after having my wound bandaged up & a hearty seafood lunch, we head out to Chek Jawa on the eastern side of Ubin. Photos at the old colonial house and a quick coastal boardwalk trek....black clouds loom everywhere. We see lightning activity and wonder why so many silly people have climbed up the lookout tower. Cycle furiously back to jetty and almost make it....except for the last 200m where we all get absolutely drenched.
Fun. Very fun.
A lot has been going on. My father-in-law had a silent heart attack and had to undergo quadruple heart bypass surgery on 18 July. We are all well acquainted with Mt Elizabeth Critical Care Unit & Ward 6.....and Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. It was good when he was discharged and is recuperating slowly but surely next door. The Pince family (cousins from Laguna Hills, California) have been in town visiting. Last weekend, we had a short getaway at the Changi Village Hotel.
Last Saturday, we all went to Pulau Ubin to check out the Ketam Mountain Bike trail. This was Tim's 3rd time but my first. It goes around the quarry and if supposed to be of race championship standard - pretty technical. Well, I was concerned for the safety of all the boys as we tackled this course. I off-road much more often than they do and wasn't sure how they'd handle it.
It's really fun. Quite narrow and single track all the way with plenty of hair-pin turns. It was middle of the day hot but we were shaded in the jungle. Anyway, merrily going up and down and sliding along I somehow managed to scratch up my legs. And then.....scrape a chunk of skin off behind the knee on my right leg. It looks raw and I feel the pain....a bit of bleeding. There is no plaster big enough.
We are a big group of 8 and so stop to re-group every now and then. I feel the pain behind my knee and then we suddenly stop to re-group. In a second, my head feels faint...I ask if anyone has a plaster but realize I can't say much else after that. I think I'm off my bike and I lean my hand on the tree to steady myself. Before I know it, I hear Keith warning whoever to grab hold of me because I'm about to faint. True enough, I'm unable to stand any more and am helped to the ground. Slowly I feel blood coming back to my head and things get clearer.
I had a vasovagal reflex most likely triggered by my cut.
The vasovagal reflex, which causes the heart rate to slow and the blood vessels to widen, or dilate.
As a result, blood pools in the lower body and less blood goes to the brain. This reflex can be triggered by many things, including stress, pain, fear, coughing, holding your breath, and urinating.
We are more than halfway through Ketam trail and I'm wondering how I'm going to finish it properly. Fortunately, there is a parallel road (Jalan Wat Siam) where I can exit and head to NParks office to get first aid. Bummer...but that's life.
Fully recovered after having my wound bandaged up & a hearty seafood lunch, we head out to Chek Jawa on the eastern side of Ubin. Photos at the old colonial house and a quick coastal boardwalk trek....black clouds loom everywhere. We see lightning activity and wonder why so many silly people have climbed up the lookout tower. Cycle furiously back to jetty and almost make it....except for the last 200m where we all get absolutely drenched.
Fun. Very fun.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Joyriders - Road Cycling GroupI've been a guest rider with them on Wednesdays for about a month already. Last week I finally decided to join them 'officially'. It's the jersey. I think it's real spiffy and ordered mine - can't wait to get it. Now I have to think of a nickname for myself though. All Joyriders have a funny nickname.....like Snail Queen Joyce (the founder), Rock n Roll King Joshua (riding buddy who introduced me to the group) etc.
Anyway, this group is also known as the 5am Longhouse riders. Every day, except Mondays, there's a ride that leaves from there. That works for me because my Tuesday rides have been inconsistent. Things pop up, bad weather etc. Also, I want to improve. So this was supposed to be my 'secret training' to get faster and stronger so I don't get dropped on Tuesdays. Well, I get 'super dropped' with this hard-core bunch. Many cycle every day and for much longer distances.
But now I discover that I rather like early morning cycling and realize I've been missing out. The absolute best time to cycle in Singapore is 5am. It's cool, peaceful and hardly any traffic. The route is always the same but there's a certain comfort in predictability. It's a big group with varying speeds but everyone usually regroups at junction of Mandai and Woodlands Road. The 70+km bunch turn right to head towards Kranji, the 50+km turn left to head up Clementi....and a few of us 30+km turn left again at Dunearn Road.
Best part is coming back at about 6am and knowing I've had my workout for the day. Still buzzing from the endorphin rush and sitting on my bench to rehydrate, it feels great. The early morning calm is very good for praying and my head feels very clear. Of course, I also pray a lot because more often than not I'm riding by myself because the group is so fast. But there's no fear. It's very scenic going up Upper Thomson Road and Mandai. Those grand trees, the reservoir, the jungle.....makes me grateful for what a beautiful earth we live in.
In the meantime, I need to build muscle so I can stay with the pack. Right now, I get dropped on the incline just before we hit Mandai. Got to work on that.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
No idea why but I rather like this ditty from a rap song I don't even know the name of.
Are these the statistics that describe what goes on in endurance events?
Nah...there's more pleasure than pain.
Tim & I are signed up to do the Singapore Bay Run Half Marathon on 24th August.
Neither of us have been running......much less any specific training.
No mood to run. I just want to bike. So much more efficient. Oh dear....
This is ten percent luck, twenty percent skill
Fifteen percent concentrated power of will
Five percent pleasure, fifty percent pain
And a hundred percent reason to remember the name.
Are these the statistics that describe what goes on in endurance events?
Nah...there's more pleasure than pain.
Tim & I are signed up to do the Singapore Bay Run Half Marathon on 24th August.
Neither of us have been running......much less any specific training.
No mood to run. I just want to bike. So much more efficient. Oh dear....
This is ten percent luck, twenty percent skill
Fifteen percent concentrated power of will
Five percent pleasure, fifty percent pain
And a hundred percent reason to remember the name.
Monday, July 07, 2008
Yeah we were pooped out on the way back. For better photos and other amazing wildlife right here in Singapore, you can check out our volunteer guide's blog. http://www.wondercreation.blogspot.com
Pulau Semakau Guided Tour
To top off the June school holidays, I signed us up for an early morning inter-tidal walk with the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity on Pulau Semakau. We met them at 5am at the Marina South Pier. Boat trip to our landfill island was about 45 minutes. These are some of the amazing sea creatures we discovered there. I've been a snorkeler since a teen & did my share of scuba diving as well. But all this was in our backyard! I saw seahorses, octopus, very colourful sea cucumbers of all shapes & sizes and starfish as well.
This is a nonsensical posting but couldn't resist it. These are my two trusty pairs of cycling shades. Important to protect the eyes when zooming along so quickly. One pair is branded UVEX and cost me about $100 on sale. The other pair is from the DIY shop along 6th avenue. Construction glasses that costs $5. Both very good. 
Scenic spot along the Changi Coast Park Connector. Matt on the good old Gary Fisher Cosmo. Got that second hand, put in some good mileage and sold it off to another fellow. His 8-yr old son looking for a bike. I really liked riding the Cosmo. Super smooth ride. It had 7 speeds and suspension fork, adjustable handlebar & seatpost. Tim is on a rental from Bikehaus. A super-light titanium triathlon bike he used for the Sprint Series. 
The CarryMe that carried me back home after dropping the car off at Sin Ming car workshops. These two were taken on the way up Lornie Road. MacRitchie carpark is on the right somewhere.
Few days later took the Strida back to Sin Ming to pick up the car. Strida does better on bumpy pavement paths but quite a bit heavier to haul up and down the pedestrian bridge. This pic was taken crossing Lornie from graveyard Sime Road to country club Sime Road. Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Expressing My Wishes
It's good to put our requests out there. There's a better chance of them happening. Just look. I was lusting after a titanium bike a few months back. Now I have two :)
So, here goes. I wish to go on a family cycling holiday. It's healthy and unique. Holidays involve eating too much so what better way to justify the bingeing. Anyway, there's a lot of different things to see and a very unique perspective seeing things on two wheels. So I hope to go on lots of family cycling holidays from now on. Both regionally and internationally.
It's good to put our requests out there. There's a better chance of them happening. Just look. I was lusting after a titanium bike a few months back. Now I have two :)
So, here goes. I wish to go on a family cycling holiday. It's healthy and unique. Holidays involve eating too much so what better way to justify the bingeing. Anyway, there's a lot of different things to see and a very unique perspective seeing things on two wheels. So I hope to go on lots of family cycling holidays from now on. Both regionally and internationally.
CarryMe
Yesterday morning I had to deliver the in-laws' car to the workshop in Sin Ming. I put my Carryme foldie in the trunk with my bike helmet. And I cycled back - mostly pavement and a little bit of road. It was fun. It took me about 25 minutes to get to Sime Road. Actually 20 minutes because the other 5 minutes was for waiting at the traffic light to cross to the MacRitchie side.
It was a breeze carrying the bike up and down the overhead bridge just before Sime Road. Only 8kg. I think that's 2-3kg lighter than my Strida. Big difference. There is no safe way to cross the PIE except to go left on Sime Road, under the PIE and the end of University Road. So I did that. Then I crossed at Adam Road hawker centre back and came home via Shelford Road. Total travel time 45 minutes. Not bad. Not bad at all.
Yesterday morning I had to deliver the in-laws' car to the workshop in Sin Ming. I put my Carryme foldie in the trunk with my bike helmet. And I cycled back - mostly pavement and a little bit of road. It was fun. It took me about 25 minutes to get to Sime Road. Actually 20 minutes because the other 5 minutes was for waiting at the traffic light to cross to the MacRitchie side.
It was a breeze carrying the bike up and down the overhead bridge just before Sime Road. Only 8kg. I think that's 2-3kg lighter than my Strida. Big difference. There is no safe way to cross the PIE except to go left on Sime Road, under the PIE and the end of University Road. So I did that. Then I crossed at Adam Road hawker centre back and came home via Shelford Road. Total travel time 45 minutes. Not bad. Not bad at all.
Bike Shop Help
If I get a flat, I have a vague idea what to do but I hope I never get a flat. My technical knowledge of bikes is shameful. I'm also not very interested in learning. So I rely heavily on bike shops.
Last week, I brought my Bella and Cannondale into Treknology3. I needed help to shift all the components over. 5 things. Front light, rear light, cyclometer, pump & saddle bag. Turns out I needed to get another saddle bag because Topeak couldn't fit. So $36 for a Trek saddle bag. Another $24 for all the labour involved for the other things. $60.
Yesterday I brought Tim's Tank Elite & my Dean Scout into Tay Junction to do several things. For Tim's bike, needed to change the road tires back to off-road tires. He didn't like my Terry Butterfly saddle so I had them change it back to the original red Selle Italia gel. For my Dean Scout, I wanted the Terry Butterfly instead of the super hard Selle Italia saddle. Also needed the seat tube cut so can lower the saddle to the minimum. Last, I needed a shorter stem. The Dean stem was super long. So got a Thomson 70mm stem ($120) instead. My Dean is super light but unfortunately still big for me. It's ok for road and probably simple off-road but I'd have to think twice if I can go Ketam or Bukit Timah hill on it. Anyway, total bill $150.
If I get a flat, I have a vague idea what to do but I hope I never get a flat. My technical knowledge of bikes is shameful. I'm also not very interested in learning. So I rely heavily on bike shops.
Last week, I brought my Bella and Cannondale into Treknology3. I needed help to shift all the components over. 5 things. Front light, rear light, cyclometer, pump & saddle bag. Turns out I needed to get another saddle bag because Topeak couldn't fit. So $36 for a Trek saddle bag. Another $24 for all the labour involved for the other things. $60.
Yesterday I brought Tim's Tank Elite & my Dean Scout into Tay Junction to do several things. For Tim's bike, needed to change the road tires back to off-road tires. He didn't like my Terry Butterfly saddle so I had them change it back to the original red Selle Italia gel. For my Dean Scout, I wanted the Terry Butterfly instead of the super hard Selle Italia saddle. Also needed the seat tube cut so can lower the saddle to the minimum. Last, I needed a shorter stem. The Dean stem was super long. So got a Thomson 70mm stem ($120) instead. My Dean is super light but unfortunately still big for me. It's ok for road and probably simple off-road but I'd have to think twice if I can go Ketam or Bukit Timah hill on it. Anyway, total bill $150.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Reflecting on My Tri Journey
Today is 10th June. Last year on 12th June I blogged about how I had signed up to do the Triladies Sprint distance. So it's been a year. I realize that I've come quite a way. One Sprint attempt in Sept (Triladies was rained out after bike leg), a successfully completed Sprint in Nov and an enjoyable Olympic Distance in May. I can now swim freestyle comfortably although still use breaststroke for the race. I still love my Cannondale but am now also a proud owner of a gorgeous titanium frame named Bella.
Along the way, I bought a bicycle for each member of my family. We don't cycle as a family unit as often as I'd like but it is an additional family activity that we all enjoy when we do get round to it. For myself, I discovered a fascination with foldable bikes and am a proud owner of the unique Strida and the dependable Dahon. The Dahon is well travelled. Tim used it in Bintan and we brought it along to Tioman as well.
I also picked up trail riding this year using both Luke & Elliott's mountain bikes. I have become well acquainted with both Gangsa Loop and Bukit Timah Hill trail. I wore out Elliott's brake pads and had some spectacular falls into ditches. My battle scars were a blue-black butt and multiple grazes but smiling all the way. Obsessed with owning a Titanium bike, I succumbed to a 16" Dean Scout to call my own. It's so light but I know the frame is actually a little too big for me. Fine for road riding around the estate but not perfect for me to go trail riding. It can be done but it's not ideal. Elliott's bike is a 17" so it should be better than that.
Finally, without really trying very hard, I got my husband Tim sucked into all this too. He signed himself up for the Singapore Sprint Series earlier this year. He clocked some respectable times for the Biathlon in Sentosa and the Duathlon in Mandai. This coming Sunday (yes, Father's Day!) he will be doing his first Sprint distance.
So much can happen in a year!
Today is 10th June. Last year on 12th June I blogged about how I had signed up to do the Triladies Sprint distance. So it's been a year. I realize that I've come quite a way. One Sprint attempt in Sept (Triladies was rained out after bike leg), a successfully completed Sprint in Nov and an enjoyable Olympic Distance in May. I can now swim freestyle comfortably although still use breaststroke for the race. I still love my Cannondale but am now also a proud owner of a gorgeous titanium frame named Bella.
Along the way, I bought a bicycle for each member of my family. We don't cycle as a family unit as often as I'd like but it is an additional family activity that we all enjoy when we do get round to it. For myself, I discovered a fascination with foldable bikes and am a proud owner of the unique Strida and the dependable Dahon. The Dahon is well travelled. Tim used it in Bintan and we brought it along to Tioman as well.
I also picked up trail riding this year using both Luke & Elliott's mountain bikes. I have become well acquainted with both Gangsa Loop and Bukit Timah Hill trail. I wore out Elliott's brake pads and had some spectacular falls into ditches. My battle scars were a blue-black butt and multiple grazes but smiling all the way. Obsessed with owning a Titanium bike, I succumbed to a 16" Dean Scout to call my own. It's so light but I know the frame is actually a little too big for me. Fine for road riding around the estate but not perfect for me to go trail riding. It can be done but it's not ideal. Elliott's bike is a 17" so it should be better than that.
Finally, without really trying very hard, I got my husband Tim sucked into all this too. He signed himself up for the Singapore Sprint Series earlier this year. He clocked some respectable times for the Biathlon in Sentosa and the Duathlon in Mandai. This coming Sunday (yes, Father's Day!) he will be doing his first Sprint distance.
So much can happen in a year!
Sunday, June 08, 2008
The Fizik Vitesse Tri saddle is built for the ladies. Let's face it, most saddles target problem areas for the men in our sport. The Fizik Vitesse Tri saddle hopes to change that!The Vitesse TRI saddle is almost 30mm shorter than the Arione series as well as roughly 20mm wider in the back. This directs the pressure onto our naturally wider pelvis area and provides much more comfort than the majority of other saddles out there. Plus the integrated clip system can be used to attach a BLINK!!Features:Color: Black
k:ium rails - stronger and lighter than titanium rails
Microtex cover
Foam padding and additional technogel throughout the pose, wing flex
Length: 270mm, Max Width: 150mm
280g
I haven't had a chance to test my Bella properly yet. The previous owner kept the pedals so I have to bring her in to the bike shop for new ones. I have been lusting after a Litespeed for a few months now. I have to say...she looks really good sitting in my living room. I spend an obscene amount of time researching what others' write about the bike as well. Like this.
The new old school IT'S SO '90s--AND THAT'S GOOD: Carbon frames have been all the rage for a few years now, overshadowing the smooth, supple ride of titanium. Ti, the "it" material of the '90s, combines the lightness of aluminum with the sprightliness of steel, and, a plus for the low-maintenance riders among us, doesn't corrode. But titanium can be difficult to machine, requiring special tools and skills, which adds to the cost. YOU CAN FEEL THE EXPERIENCE: Litespeed has been making ti bikes since 1986, and the Bella since 2004.
The new old school IT'S SO '90s--AND THAT'S GOOD: Carbon frames have been all the rage for a few years now, overshadowing the smooth, supple ride of titanium. Ti, the "it" material of the '90s, combines the lightness of aluminum with the sprightliness of steel, and, a plus for the low-maintenance riders among us, doesn't corrode. But titanium can be difficult to machine, requiring special tools and skills, which adds to the cost. YOU CAN FEEL THE EXPERIENCE: Litespeed has been making ti bikes since 1986, and the Bella since 2004.
Bella means "Beautiful". and that's the only way to describe Litespeed's Women's specific frame design for 2007 crafted from 3AL/2.5V titanium tubing to fit female body proportions. The Bella is everything that a Litespeed should be - aggressive, graceful, responsive and beautiful. It's oversized seat tube adds drivetrain stiffness and precise shifting when the going gets tough
Oh gosh. The run was soooo loooong. I was happy with my swim and bike time. But it seemed like just about everybody overtook me on the run. Took me 1 hr 30 min to do 10K. Actually that's only slightly longer than my usual snail pace so I don't know why I'm complaining. But I guess I now realize that I really need to do something about my running. It's tooooo sloooowwwww. So, I completed the OD in 3 hrs 53 minutes. I wasn't last. I was still smiling (as you can see) as I was running down the finishing chute. So happy. So very happy. I did it.
Spent less than 2 minutes in Transition 1 to get my helmet, shades, race belt, socks & shoes on. Walking my trusty Cannondale R600 out to the Bike Start. I really enjoyed the bike route - all 40km. Bintan roads are very good and the scenery was gorgeous. It was undulating.....and the climbs took effort but it was worth it. Improved on my bike time compared to the training camp. Wasn't so dead this time. Took about 1 hr 30 mins.
Bintan Triathlon 24 May 2008Coming out of the swim 1.5km or 37 minutes later and running through the showers. There were no jellyfish this time. I was swimming in the wake of another breaststroker - Mr Pearl Izumi. At least that's all I could see on his neckline. Was a little surprised that Buzz was nearby too. It was a nice swim at my own pace. Still felt fresh.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Should I? Should I not?
Excellent condition 1 year old Litespeed BellaSize XS top tube 49.5cm, seat tube 44cmUltegra 10 speed group setKsyrium elite wheelset (6 mths old)Fizik Vitesse Tri saddleITM Elle handlebar size 38cmRitchey carbon pro seatpostHave not registered for lifetime warranty Bike was sent for servicing last monthFull Bike $4500. All prices are negotiable. Not selling components or group set seperately.Price excludes speedometer, front, rear lights and pedals.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
I succumbed to this togoparts ad. Damage $2.3K.
Here's your chance to own a titanium bike with good parts at an affordable price!LAST CALL!!! Before I strip the whole bike, sell the parts and keep the frame for a future build.Specs are as follows :
Frame : Dean Scout Titanium 16"
Fork : Rock Shox SID 06' with poploc
Wheelset : Mavic Crossmax SL
Crank : XTR Hollowtech
Shifters : Sram X.O. Gripshift
Brake Levers : XTR
V Brakes : XTR
Front D : XTR
Rear D : Sram X.O
Stem : Dean
Seatpost : Dean
Headset : Chris King
Handlebar : Easton EA70
Tires : Maxxis Larsen TT
Skewers : Salsa
Saddle : Selle Italia Flite Titanium
No Pedals Included.
I'm moving house, and my new place can't accomodate 4 bikes...so sadly, this has to go. My loss, your gain.
Action Options
Here's your chance to own a titanium bike with good parts at an affordable price!LAST CALL!!! Before I strip the whole bike, sell the parts and keep the frame for a future build.Specs are as follows :
Frame : Dean Scout Titanium 16"
Fork : Rock Shox SID 06' with poploc
Wheelset : Mavic Crossmax SL
Crank : XTR Hollowtech
Shifters : Sram X.O. Gripshift
Brake Levers : XTR
V Brakes : XTR
Front D : XTR
Rear D : Sram X.O
Stem : Dean
Seatpost : Dean
Headset : Chris King
Handlebar : Easton EA70
Tires : Maxxis Larsen TT
Skewers : Salsa
Saddle : Selle Italia Flite Titanium
No Pedals Included.
I'm moving house, and my new place can't accomodate 4 bikes...so sadly, this has to go. My loss, your gain.
Action Options
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Tribob's Bintan Training Camp
These are the other crazy people who paid to work their bodies hard over the weekend. On Saturday, the Red & Black groups rode 150km around Bintan. I was in the White group that rode 75km. A very undulating terrain of rolling hills...up, down, up, down....to Tanjung Uban to eat lunch and back to Nirwana Gardens. That's a first for me....such a long distance. Well, I survived.
Next day, we all did a trial run of the Olympic Distance triathlon. That's 1.5km swim, 40km bike and 10k run. My legs were shot by the end of the ride so I only managed to walk 1 lap of 5km. Took me 3 hrs 30 minutes. Very long. I have a lot of work to do for the next 6 weeks to get in shape.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Cycling Route
Today we did the route in the opposite direction as we normally do. This is because of the long, long trail of trucks waiting in line to get past causeway. Last time the truck driver opened the door just barely missing us cyclists on the road. Not to mention the pollution.
I think these are all the roads we took:
Hillview Ave-Upp Bukit Timah Rd-Mandai Rd-Sembawang Rd-Canberra Road-Admiralty Dr-stopped at Blk 19 Marsiling for yummy soft boiled eggs, kaya toast, 100 plus & China Apple-then Woodlands Ave-Woodlands Rd-Upp Bt Timah Rd-Hillview Ave. 38km.
I can keep up with Buzz & Ricky on the flats. Drafting nicely with ave speed 29-32km/hr. But I get dropped on the hills. My speed drops to 20km/hr and can feel my heartrate going thru the roof. It's double whammy. Both the machine & the engine. The machine....well, I ride an old aluminium that is not as light & spiffy as their carbon fibre frames & super light wheels. The engine....my legs just aren't there yet. Dunno when either. But it's ok. At least my gearing is up to standard. I catch up with them on the flats and they don't have to wait for me.
Today we did the route in the opposite direction as we normally do. This is because of the long, long trail of trucks waiting in line to get past causeway. Last time the truck driver opened the door just barely missing us cyclists on the road. Not to mention the pollution.
I think these are all the roads we took:
Hillview Ave-Upp Bukit Timah Rd-Mandai Rd-Sembawang Rd-Canberra Road-Admiralty Dr-stopped at Blk 19 Marsiling for yummy soft boiled eggs, kaya toast, 100 plus & China Apple-then Woodlands Ave-Woodlands Rd-Upp Bt Timah Rd-Hillview Ave. 38km.
I can keep up with Buzz & Ricky on the flats. Drafting nicely with ave speed 29-32km/hr. But I get dropped on the hills. My speed drops to 20km/hr and can feel my heartrate going thru the roof. It's double whammy. Both the machine & the engine. The machine....well, I ride an old aluminium that is not as light & spiffy as their carbon fibre frames & super light wheels. The engine....my legs just aren't there yet. Dunno when either. But it's ok. At least my gearing is up to standard. I catch up with them on the flats and they don't have to wait for me.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Run Interval Training
This is a 20 minute session that looks very easy to do. After all, what's 20 minutes? Best part is. Consistent interval training of just 20 minutes a few times a week is probably more effective in increasing stamina & performance than hours of running at the same pace.
Well, it looks easy but I was breathless and seconds seemed like minutes when I did it today.
3 mins - easy jog warm up
3 mins - medium/fast running
60sec - walk or stretching
90 sec - fast run
60 sec - walk
90 sec - fast run
60 sec - walk
90 sec - fast run
60 sec - walk
90 sec - fast run
60 sec - walk
90 sec - fast run
60 sec - easy jog
Give it a try. Then you'll know what I mean by seconds feeling like minutes!
This is a 20 minute session that looks very easy to do. After all, what's 20 minutes? Best part is. Consistent interval training of just 20 minutes a few times a week is probably more effective in increasing stamina & performance than hours of running at the same pace.
Well, it looks easy but I was breathless and seconds seemed like minutes when I did it today.
3 mins - easy jog warm up
3 mins - medium/fast running
60sec - walk or stretching
90 sec - fast run
60 sec - walk
90 sec - fast run
60 sec - walk
90 sec - fast run
60 sec - walk
90 sec - fast run
60 sec - walk
90 sec - fast run
60 sec - easy jog
Give it a try. Then you'll know what I mean by seconds feeling like minutes!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Latest Exercise ToolIt looks like a metronome.....and it is a metronome. Got it from a guitar shop. About the size of a credit card though slightly fatter. This is going to help me run more efficiently. The plan is to increase my running cadence to as close to 180bpm.
Tested it out today. Was able to maintain about 140-150bpm for a short 3km route. But I was holding it in my hand and all that bouncing around made it go berserk. Started going off by itself. Went back to 100bpm by itself. Got rather fed up. Thought I probably spoilt the little thing. But it seems to be back to normal now. Only problem is.....it's a moody metronome.
Thinking may have to invest a little more and get the clip-on Seiko DM 50 instead. Hmmm...hope Swee Lee has it.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Swimming
I have to find a more suitable time to swim. This week, I chose to swim after BSF meetings but that's mid-day. Although it was cloudy (even drizzling) on Monday, those UV rays still got me and I was darker. So I have to avoid swimming from 11am to 4pm. That's going to be a challenge but I'll have to figure it out.
I warmed up with 10 laps of breaststroke. Took 13 instead of 14 minutes today.
Then I put on my 'zoomers' (short fins) and worked on the drills. Laps 11 & 12 were KOS (kick-on-side) drill. I always get water up on my nose when I breathe on my left. Laps 13 & 14 were Catch-up Drill. I quite like this. Helps me work on having longer swim body. Work on pull & rotation. Laps 15 & 16 were Catch-up Drill with Thumb Scrape. Make sure the thumb scrapes the thigh to make sure I finish each stroke properly. Laps 17 & 18 were Single-Arm Drill. Isolating the stroke for each arm so it's correct. The straight arm starts to ache though. Laps 19 & 20 were the Fist Drill. To focus on using forearms for the pull. Laps 21 & 22 were back to Catch-up Drill (yes I kinda like this) but breathing bi-laterally. I discovered that I get more oxygen this way so it's good. I must perfect this bi-lateral breathing.
Next 8 laps (23 to 30) were interval training. Back to breaststroke. A continuous flow of moderate 25m followed by 25m sprint. To improve my swim fitness and teach my body to recover quickly. Felt good today. Not so breathless. Aim to increase this to 10 laps next week.
Final 4 laps was warming down. Moderate breaststroke. Total 34 laps today. Total time 53 minutes.
I have to find a more suitable time to swim. This week, I chose to swim after BSF meetings but that's mid-day. Although it was cloudy (even drizzling) on Monday, those UV rays still got me and I was darker. So I have to avoid swimming from 11am to 4pm. That's going to be a challenge but I'll have to figure it out.
I warmed up with 10 laps of breaststroke. Took 13 instead of 14 minutes today.
Then I put on my 'zoomers' (short fins) and worked on the drills. Laps 11 & 12 were KOS (kick-on-side) drill. I always get water up on my nose when I breathe on my left. Laps 13 & 14 were Catch-up Drill. I quite like this. Helps me work on having longer swim body. Work on pull & rotation. Laps 15 & 16 were Catch-up Drill with Thumb Scrape. Make sure the thumb scrapes the thigh to make sure I finish each stroke properly. Laps 17 & 18 were Single-Arm Drill. Isolating the stroke for each arm so it's correct. The straight arm starts to ache though. Laps 19 & 20 were the Fist Drill. To focus on using forearms for the pull. Laps 21 & 22 were back to Catch-up Drill (yes I kinda like this) but breathing bi-laterally. I discovered that I get more oxygen this way so it's good. I must perfect this bi-lateral breathing.
Next 8 laps (23 to 30) were interval training. Back to breaststroke. A continuous flow of moderate 25m followed by 25m sprint. To improve my swim fitness and teach my body to recover quickly. Felt good today. Not so breathless. Aim to increase this to 10 laps next week.
Final 4 laps was warming down. Moderate breaststroke. Total 34 laps today. Total time 53 minutes.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Training Reflections
I'm still not sure how I'm going to do the Olympic Distance instead of Sprint this May. I have 8 weeks left. I didn't sign up for any group training this time. Decided not to eat into family time in the evenings and weekends like last year. So, I try to train in the mornings.
However, I did sign up for Tribob's Bintan Training Camp in about 16 days. Early Saturday till late Sunday. It'll be a 60km cycle on Saturday straight off the boat. Then on Sunday a 'at your own pace' OD. The comforting thought is that there'll be a support vehicle. I suppose I'll have more confidence when that camp is over. At least I will be familiar with the course and be able to complete it. Only thing is to work on my timing.
The swim. 1.5km in open sea. That's 30 laps in the pool. Quite happy with my 32 laps this past Monday. It was 10 laps breast stroke warm-up, 10 laps of drills, 6 laps of 'speed-play' and 6 laps of warm-down. Combination of 25m breast stroke, then 25m of freestyle.
Of the 3 sports, been cycling the most. Tuesdays on road bike. Wednesdays on mountain bike. The first to get a feel for the distance of 40km. The second to maintain & hopefully improve my stamina. Interval training at Gangsa loop and Bukit Timah hill.
The jungle was just beautiful today. It's been raining the past few days so the track had puddles. The rain changed the terrain a little. Uncovered potholes and swept in soil. The air was so fresh though. It was mid-morning but felt like dawn. Riding thru the trails always gives me joy. I burst out in praise of the Almighty God for His creativity & beauty in nature.
My weakess area is the run. I have not been running at all. How am I going to run 10km after all that swimming and cycling? I really need to run more consistently. The plan is to do at least 20 minutes interval training of running at least 3 times a week.
I'm still not sure how I'm going to do the Olympic Distance instead of Sprint this May. I have 8 weeks left. I didn't sign up for any group training this time. Decided not to eat into family time in the evenings and weekends like last year. So, I try to train in the mornings.
However, I did sign up for Tribob's Bintan Training Camp in about 16 days. Early Saturday till late Sunday. It'll be a 60km cycle on Saturday straight off the boat. Then on Sunday a 'at your own pace' OD. The comforting thought is that there'll be a support vehicle. I suppose I'll have more confidence when that camp is over. At least I will be familiar with the course and be able to complete it. Only thing is to work on my timing.
The swim. 1.5km in open sea. That's 30 laps in the pool. Quite happy with my 32 laps this past Monday. It was 10 laps breast stroke warm-up, 10 laps of drills, 6 laps of 'speed-play' and 6 laps of warm-down. Combination of 25m breast stroke, then 25m of freestyle.
Of the 3 sports, been cycling the most. Tuesdays on road bike. Wednesdays on mountain bike. The first to get a feel for the distance of 40km. The second to maintain & hopefully improve my stamina. Interval training at Gangsa loop and Bukit Timah hill.
The jungle was just beautiful today. It's been raining the past few days so the track had puddles. The rain changed the terrain a little. Uncovered potholes and swept in soil. The air was so fresh though. It was mid-morning but felt like dawn. Riding thru the trails always gives me joy. I burst out in praise of the Almighty God for His creativity & beauty in nature.
My weakess area is the run. I have not been running at all. How am I going to run 10km after all that swimming and cycling? I really need to run more consistently. The plan is to do at least 20 minutes interval training of running at least 3 times a week.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Litespeed TuscanyThis bike is made of titanium. No, I don't own it. It costs something like $11K. Maybe one day...if I'm mad enough. I saw one of these at the bike shop the other day. The owner let me pick it up & even offered to let me test ride it. But I didn't....just looking at it, I knew it cost a bomb. It was light as a feather. Just amazing. Thing is...titanium is a lot stronger than carbon. My road bike is aluminium. Most people upgrade to carbon frame after being bitten by the bug. But I'm thinking....if I had the $$$, skip the carbon and upgrade straight to titanium. Then again, it's not the equipment.....it's the 'engine' that makes the difference. My 'engine' is kinda out of tune...but trying.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Saturday, March 08, 2008
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Ulu Pandan Park ConnectorThis is a dis-used railway line that is an illegal crossing between the two parts of the Ulu Pandan Park Connectors. I believe it actually belongs to Malaysia. It'd be absolutely lovely if someone like NParks put decking on top of it and then we can just cycle along the railway line. From Jurong to Johore!
Cleaning JunoThe bum aspect of owning things is that they need to be cleaned. We spent a long hot afternoon bailing water out of Juno. So much rain over Dec....so much water. Now it's raining again...I can only imagine. The good thing about bringing the boys out with us is that they have no choice but to amuse themselves. Squatting under Juno for shade, talking to Baobei, playing with the sand on the ground. Elliott is nowhere to be seen because he was hard at work bailing water. What a good son.
My Babe
That was Cast #4 that came off on 19 Feb. That's the machine with the circular blade that saws the cast off. I couldn't watch when the nurses were doing it. Just my son's arm at stake. Anyway, so many wasted hours waiting at Clinic A @ NUH, waiting to do xrays, waiting for Plastering Services in Rm 19, waiting to see orthopaedic doc....every week since 24 Dec 07. So glad it's over. Hope nobody else in the family breaks anything ever again!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Base 1.1
I have 15 weeks to prepare for the Bintan Triathlon (Olympic Distance) on Saturday 24th May. That means I have to swim 1.5km, cycle 40km and run 10km. I am so not ready for this...and yet I have to do it because the idea creeped into my head and won't creep out. What's the point of all this I ask? Well, life is short and meant to be lived to the max. So I'm doing this because I can. There may come a time when I can't anymore.....and I will have no regrets doing what I could when I could.
There are so many things I need to work on though.
My freestyle has gone out of the window. I can barely swim 25m before going out of breath. I really don't want to revert to breastroke for OD because I need to save my legs for the bike & run. So, I really needs to get a hold of my breathing while swimming freestyle. I need to make sure I am taking in all the oxygen every time I breathe. Also need to work on bilateral breathing.
I'm been off-road biking every week so far and consider it to be 'interval training' because of the hills - up down really gives me a workout. I've also taken my road bike out to East Coast Park Connector for the mileage - 40km to Changi Beach & back. But it's not the same......not as strenous as with the Tues Bike Gang going up & down Mandai Road. I don't feel like messing with traffic though. Also, I'm so unfit I know I slow them down. So...that needs a lot of work as well.
Finally, the run. I enjoyed joining the Sat running gang at SICC Bukit last Saturday. Think I'll stick to that. It pushes me much more than if I were to run by myself. However, I need to work on my run technique. My speed is absolutely pathetic. My running economy needs an overhaul. So I'm going to try Evolution Running. Falling forward running. Like a bicycle, increase the cadence of my run.
On top of all that, I know I need to do daily stretching and build up my core muscles. I need to build strength! I need a bigger engine. Powerful quadriceps. Stiff, strong core. So that means regular weight training in the gym. At least 2-3 times a week if I want to see any result.
So many things to do......
I have 15 weeks to prepare for the Bintan Triathlon (Olympic Distance) on Saturday 24th May. That means I have to swim 1.5km, cycle 40km and run 10km. I am so not ready for this...and yet I have to do it because the idea creeped into my head and won't creep out. What's the point of all this I ask? Well, life is short and meant to be lived to the max. So I'm doing this because I can. There may come a time when I can't anymore.....and I will have no regrets doing what I could when I could.
There are so many things I need to work on though.
My freestyle has gone out of the window. I can barely swim 25m before going out of breath. I really don't want to revert to breastroke for OD because I need to save my legs for the bike & run. So, I really needs to get a hold of my breathing while swimming freestyle. I need to make sure I am taking in all the oxygen every time I breathe. Also need to work on bilateral breathing.
I'm been off-road biking every week so far and consider it to be 'interval training' because of the hills - up down really gives me a workout. I've also taken my road bike out to East Coast Park Connector for the mileage - 40km to Changi Beach & back. But it's not the same......not as strenous as with the Tues Bike Gang going up & down Mandai Road. I don't feel like messing with traffic though. Also, I'm so unfit I know I slow them down. So...that needs a lot of work as well.
Finally, the run. I enjoyed joining the Sat running gang at SICC Bukit last Saturday. Think I'll stick to that. It pushes me much more than if I were to run by myself. However, I need to work on my run technique. My speed is absolutely pathetic. My running economy needs an overhaul. So I'm going to try Evolution Running. Falling forward running. Like a bicycle, increase the cadence of my run.
On top of all that, I know I need to do daily stretching and build up my core muscles. I need to build strength! I need a bigger engine. Powerful quadriceps. Stiff, strong core. So that means regular weight training in the gym. At least 2-3 times a week if I want to see any result.
So many things to do......
Strida 3.3 - Urban
Bike Weight - 10 kg
Frame - 7000 series aluminium
Drive Train - kevlar greaseless belt drive
Wheels - Alloy 41 cm (16")Brakes - hub brakes
Speeds - single speed (56 gear inch)
Folded Size - 114cm x 51cm x 23cm
Luggage Rack - 5kg
Reflective Strip - Scotchlite
My latest ride. I couldn't believe it when I saw it on togoparts.com. Been admiring it from afar for a while. Brand new it's $850. I got it for $638. It had less than 5km on it. The bike enthusiast had bought it for his wife....but she didn't want it. My gain! Anyway, it doesn't ride like a normal bike because of the funny 'A' frame....but I like it. It has a very intelligent design. Only 3 tubes. Folds like a stroller. Love it.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Off-Road!
Super fun. Pretty tiring. It's like interval training. Up, down. Work, cruise. Pedal furiously. Thighs burning. Can't take it. Get off and push. Avoid the puddles. Navigate around the fallen log. Nice. Makes me wonder a little about the joys of road biking. Trails are much pleasanter. Dirt on frame. Have to scrub tires. Otherwise, good fun. Definitely doing this again.
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