As could be seen by the lack of updates in this blog, it suffice to say that I ... Have .... NOT ... been ... running. So i was naturally two minds about turning up for the run today. I have been struggling with the decision for the past week, and the stress got to me on Fri night when I kept dreaming about the run. How I overslept etc.
By last night I knew I had to make a decision and glad I decided to just go for it. Even if it meant suffering the journey, it is still an experience to be had.
I wasn't able to get to sleep and managed about 3 hours of sleep in all. Got ready, chatted with mom before leaving to catch a cab to Padang. There were so many empty cabs plying my area at 4+!
I wouldn't go into details about the event but some bouquets and brickbats. Shall start with the negatives first.
1) Do they have to play the same music each year ??? The music really SUX. It doesn't get us into the mood at all
2) DJ absolutely CMI. Can't the army find someone better to psych up the crowd? We were like just standing around with nothing much to do and before we knew it, the run had started.
3) No proper signage to show the bag deposit. Ok, maybe I'm blind but i wasn't sure where the bag deposit was and had to ask around. And I wasn't the only one.
And now the good ...
1) Traffic control seemed better ? It was smooth and at no point do i need to stop at the traffic lights or felt that my life is in danger
2) army staff manning the water points are very efficient. There is sufficient water and isotonic drinks. Only problem was that the heat spray ran out way too quickly. So Taz only managed to get a bit of it ... luckily it lasted him for the run.
3) the way the bag deposit was handled put me at ease and I had faith that my barang wouldn't be lost, nor would it be drenched if there were a sudden downpour. And the boys manning the bag deposit counters were very efficient too. I was particularly impressed when the boy told me "ur bag in on the way" before I could open my mouth to ask for my baggage! *thumbs up*
Would like to say a very big THANK YOU to Taz for running with me!!! I wouldn't have enjoyed the run half as much if not for his company and his discipline to run-walk. I didn't suffer as much due to the run-walk !
We crossed the finishing line together, after waiting before the finishing line for 10+s for the clock to strike 2:49. Ok, though my timing has increased through the years but I'm just happy that I finished the run. I'm proud of myself. The timing is secondary. :)
