My intention on why I joined this race was to familiarize myself the first part of the route, test my hydration/nutrition strategy, test my apparel and test if I could survive a 50km on “chillax pace” mode with very few walks if possible. Based from previous “race” performance (30km Rizal Day Run) of 3:06, I thought I could easily finish this race in 6-7 hours including walk breaks.

As we’ve been told that the first 7km would all be uphills, my strategy was to run it at a very comfortable pace. Take note that Sir Jovie gave us a hint that we can walk the entire 7km, but I guess very few really did that, and that includes me. I ran most part of the entire 7km route, patting myself on the back each time I overtake a runner. Alas this “thrill” would likely to be short-lived as I would suffer in the latter part of the race. Soon after, Tina (the only runner who chicked me last Rizal Day Run, and chicked me in this race and ended up being the fastest women in this test run) would join me and together we were able to run 22km using her 20:5 (20 minutes continuous run followed by 5 minutes walk) then shifted to 30:5 strategy. I stopped several times to hydrate (I perspire ALOT) and also stopped twice to stretch my left knees. I must admit I felt like a pain in the ass for Tina as she only stopped whenever I stopped. Twice she even offered her own handheld bottle for me during the time we were running together. God knows how embarrased I must have felt when I realize I couldn’t keep up with her anymore. As we were approaching km23, I sent her a text message to continue her run. It was a good thing Glen and another runner was around to keep her company. Now I’m on my own and have to deal with my issue. Read the rest of this entry »