What I think about when I think about running [at 2am]

Disclaimer: This post has no relation to Haruki Murakami’s book. However a very popular question that I get from spectators who were cheering for us by the roadside at 2 am was “Why is everyone doing this? Why is everyone up at 2 am?” has left me pondering. On the flip side, I have no idea why these villagers are not asleep too at 2 in the morning.

Our happy faces at 2am. It is never too early to get excited!

Our happy faces at 2am. It is never too early to get excited!

The #KLWolfpack taking over Kuching

The #KLWolfpack taking over Kuching

Passing by villages and its friendly population is the norm for Kuching Marathon. I enjoyed the supportive atmosphere from last year so much, that I decided to upgrade myself to the full marathon category for this year. Coupled by good reviews from runners who participated in previous years, I was convinced that I made the right choice to come to Kuching again. I was so wrong.

The race started very early in the morning at exactly 2 am. The gun time was perfect, as the sun is not out yet and we enjoyed the cool morning air. Just like last year, the race started with a quick prayer, asking for Allah’s blessings so this event will run smoothly, and to protect the runners from any harm or injury. The first 10km was a breeze, and everything was going well. It was only the “warm-up phase” anyways.

A few kilometers later I spotted a water station, but there was hardly a line since no one was stopping there. It turns out that they have ran out of water. “It’s ok, I still have some water from my own bottle”, I said to myself. It did not take very long my own supply to deplete quickly. Empty plastic bottles were strewn around the next few water stations, but still there was no water in sight. There was hardly any petrol station at this part of the route, and I had to resort to asking a runner if he could spare a few sips of his 100 Plus. Bless this gentleman’s soul for sharing!

By the 25km, perhaps my running form was really bad, or I looked like I was about to collapse, but I noticed that the medic van was slowly trailing behind me and the driver was looking very concerned. I was losing my momentum from the thirst. I tried to shake it off – DNF is not an option! The only way for me to end up on that van is when I really passed out, not when I almost feel like passing out. I decided to take it easy until I find water. I think it was best for me to take things down a notch so I don’t pass out from dehydration. My focus has shifted from achieving another PB for 42km to just completing the race within the cut off time.

Finally, a water station that actually has water! Why use only one hand to drink when you can use both sides?

Finally, a water station that actually has water! Why use only one hand to drink when you can use both?

Speaking of PBs, I did some self-reflection: I noticed that I have been improving for 10km and 21km, but I have yet to break the barrier at 30km, as it have been hovering around the 4:20-4:30 hour without much improvement. Any thoughts on why is this happening and how can I fix this?

I finished the race just barely within the extended cut off time (the organizers extended the cut off time from 6.5 hours to 7 hours), feeling exhausted like I have just finished the hardest race of my life. I don’t think that I will be back again for Kuching Marathon next year, but I’ll hunt for another full marathon event to renew my PB.

Oh hey cat with bib and vest, did you get dehydrated from running too?

Oh hey cat with bib and vest, did you get dehydrated from running too?

Until next week,

The Weekend Runner.

The Kuching Marathon when I no longer run with my legs

Yesterday, I ran the Kuching Marathon for the second time. It is one of my favourite homeground running events that I never miss.

At the REPC..I'm very excited to run soon!

At the REPC..Looking very excited to run!

What’s exciting about the run was that I did a back to back full marathon (FM). A week before, I ran a full marathon (42.195km) at the Standard Charted Kuala Lumpur Marathon better known as SCKLM.  My goal was to  finish BOTH marathons without injury and I did it! Hoyeahh!

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Hoyeahh! I finished strong after back to back FM.


After coming back from SCKLM, I was very busy attending classes and lectures. Honestly, a week before the Kuching Marathon I didn’t run much, only carbo-loading and hydrating myself well. I believed that all I needed was a good rest and to continue loading myself with carbs since there was only a week gap before the Kuching Marathon.

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I couldn’t wait to arrive at the finish line,..but before that let’s take a pic first!

I was glad that the number of participants at the Kuching Marathon increased this year. Yayy! Here’s the breakdown:

  • 5km – 2200
  • 10km – 1897
  • 21km – 2343
  • 42km – 1658
    (info from KPD Kuching)

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It was almost time to flag off,..and everybody was soo excited!

The full marathon flagged off at 2am. I liked it early because first  – no sunburn and second – the weather would not be not that hot. I was hoping to finish the run before 8 am.

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Yayy! Aina was back hometown for this event! Run Aina run!

The route was almost flat with some not-so-hilly, and long, never ending road. I started my first 10 km with paces ranging from 5.30 to 6.30 min per km and the timing for first 10 km was 59 min. For the next 11 km, my average pace dropped to 7 to 8.30 min per km, hence my timing was 2 hr 21 min for the first 21 km. Oh ya, I did spend 6-8 minutes for toilet stop at the Shell petrol station nearby. Hmm, how I wished that I didn’t stop.

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Running with energy for a selfie ;P The Nashata hoodie top keeps my head dry from morning dew

It was cold and humid, and was sure most of the runners performed best at their first 21 km. I then continued running until km 32. It was already 5.50 am and I stopped at the Petronas Petrol Station nearby for about 7-8 min to perform Fajr prayer.

By the time I started running back, it was already 6 am. If I really wanted go for sub 5, I only had about one hour left for my last 10 km. However, sub 1 for my last 10 km was probably impossible. I remained positive and changed my target to sub 5 hr 15 min, 1 min earlier from my timing at SCKLM – 5hr 16min.

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I like this pic very much! I look like an Olympians..teehee 😛 photo credit to DNA Sport 🙂

I kept telling myself, “just keep running, this suffering is almost at its end”

My last 5 km was really tough, as I was fighting with myself to complete within my target. I no longer ran with my legs, I ran with heart. I kept running, no matter how slow it was, at least I kept moving. I kept my pace within 9 to 10.30 km/min, and at that time, I could no longer feel my leg. All I could feel was my socks soaking in sweat, my big toes felt like being pressed, this and that…my only wish was that I could just walk.

Towards the finish line, there were a few cheering squats who kept entertaining the runners. I ran even faster towards my last 500 m., and yet that 500 m felt like 500 km. Arghh!

Finally, I finished my 10th Full Marathon strong at the Kuching Marathon in 5 hours 9 min.*drum rolls*.. Yayy, mission sub 5hr 15min accomplished and 7 minutes earlier from FM SCKLM. Alhamdullilah.

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My first time running in Amin Sports Hijab and I love it. I love the look and the feel. Yeahh! I made it! Forget the mile, and just remember the glory 😉

Overall, the traffic was well controlled and organised. However, the water stations had limited supply of  plain water and isotonic drink. Runners had to queue up and share cups to drink, to our inconvenience. My take home message is to bring small bottle at my next run. Should the organiser fail to provide enough water throughout the run, at least I have my own.

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Thank you guys for support 😉 and not to forget, Fatin finished her first run, a 10km within cut off time..congrats! *claps

Before I went back, I managed to meet up with some friends who flew in from Peninsular just to race. Ermm, not entirely, they flew in for Kek Lapis and Mee kolok too 😛

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Congrats Khairul (in black shirt) for doing his personal best for his HM. And others, congrats guys for finishing strong.

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This superman did a back to back too,..with an awesome timing ,..sub 4.30..congrats Mambo!

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My medical lecturer (in blue hijab) also ran this morning,..she’s did 5km but overmileage with 3km add on! Congrats Dr! Next time she should upgrade to 10km 😉

When someone tells you, ‘You can’t’, turn around and say, ‘Watch me!’ ….And the bragging continues ….. 😛

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We continued bragging,..because the suffer is astounding!

Before the moment ended, we celebrated our victory with…..tadaaa!

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Mee Kolok with FM finisher medal add-on!

Till then, we shall meet again in next post 🙂

Keep running and be inspired! кредитная карта онлайн заявка без справок

The BIG DAY is here!

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I was driving around the heart of Kuala Lumpur with a colleague when we spotted a sign that stated there will be several road closures as part of the annual Standard Chartered KL Marathon (SCKLM) 2016.

“Wow, it’s already time for SCKLM again? How time flies! I remembered that this event was canceled last year because of the haze”. Even my non-runner colleague was excited for this event!

2014 vs 2016 - Same girl, same event, different distance. I am not ashamed to admit that there is no secret and short cut to achieving something that you want.

2014 vs 2016 – Same girl, same event, different distance.

SCKLM 2016 is the highlight of every runner’s calender. The organizer’s decision to cancel last year’s event did not deter runners from signing up again. Due to the scale of the event and its internationally-certified course, it is THE event that everyone has been waiting and training for. So many took this opportunity to do something significant or memorable, such as run their maiden full marathon, or ensuring that Personal Best (PB) are renewed, and I was no exception. 21km, it is payback time!

The last time I ran a half marathon was during Nike We Run KL, and I was not in the best state of health to run 21km. So since the route was almost the same, this is a second shot for me to reach that sub-2:30 goal. The morning air was clear, the temperature was warm, I was feeling well-rested and carbo-loaded. I ran past several iconic attractions in the city centre, such as the Twin Towers, Pavilion Mall, the funny-shaped Menara Tabung Haji, and many more. Despite driving by the same location several days before, it is always interesting to be passing by these buildings on foot instead of behind the wheels. In the end, I exceeded by goal by 7 minutes however it was still a PB for me since my previous achievement was 2 hours 45 minutes.

Since this is an important event for every runner, SCKLM is also a gathering of various running groups. I bumped into a lot of familiar faces through out the race, it was almost like a running community reunion! Some groups even cheered through out the course and not just at the finishing line. Most supporters gathered at the last few kilometers, handing out candies, setting up soft drink booths, or shouted words of encouragement. I could see some runners mood were uplifted when they hear people clapping for them!

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IMG_5155IMG_5147I’m so proud that Nashata has always kept me covered without compromising my modesty in every and any race. I choose to wear the black Ultra top to match with the colour of the team that has always been supporting me.

I returned home with many good memories about this year’s SCKLM, and I hope to return again next year. Now it is time for some well-deserved rest and prepare for next week’s event!

Until next week,

The Weekend Runner.

Because the struggle is real!

The Standard Charted KL Marathon is the biggest and the most famous running event in Malaysia. It is an event where all running communities gather and meet up. This year, I managed to join. Last year, it was cancelled due to the haze.

My flight from Kuching was at 5.30 pm and I touched down Kuala Lumpur 7 pm. It was 8 hours before the race. And I was nervous! Every Full Marathon always feel like my very first.

As early as 2 am, 2 hours before the race, thousands runners started to gather at Dataran Merdeka. We were all too excited for the race to start.

Let"s take wefie before run! yayy!

Let”s take wefie before run! yayy!

He managed to pace me for the first 21km ;) Thanks Hadi.

He managed to pace me for the first 21km 😉 Thanks Hadi.

Full marathon flagged off at 4am, and it was a long crowded queue at the starting line and the first 2 kilometers,it was just run easy pace since it was too crowded. I started to run at my own pace at kilometers 5 when people start to distance themselves.

I maintained my pace between 6 to 8 min/km until kilometres 21. By the Fajr time, I was already at Kilometres 16. It took 10 minutes to perform solah at the water station since we have to take turn. After the prayer, I continued to run. As I passed by the Duke and Akleh highways, the pace drop to 9 min/km. If you aim to finish sub 5.30, you can maintain this pace towards the end. Always watch out that the pacers for 5h 30 mins do not take over you.

Don't forget to smile at the camera!

Don’t forget to smile at the camera!

The water stations were available at almost every 3 km, provided with cold water and isotonic drink. It was very convenient for the runners because they could choose how frequent they needed to drink. As for me, I would drink although a sip at every water station. Water station is one of my motivations to run faster. I would try to run faster to reach the next water station.

Congrats Kak Eliza for doing PB in HM today! Keep it up!

Congrats Kak Eliza for doing PB in HM today! Keep it up!

Overall, the route was mainly Duke highway, Akleh highway and hilly route at Bukit Tunku at the last 6 km before the finish line. How I wish was wearing a pair of roller blades whenever I was close the finish line. The weather was too hot.

Am wearing Burgandy heather, pink Iman Hijab and Black Riada Pant from Nashata

I was wearing one of my favourite outfits – Burgundy heather, pink Iman Hijab and Black Riada Pant from Nashata

The finishing line is almost there! Never give up!

The finishing line is almost there! Never give up! Pic by : AKU, WONG

I managed to complete my 9th  Full Marathon in 5 hours 16 minutes with no injury. Alhamdullilah!

Yayy I make it!

Yayy I make it!

After the race, I was very pleased to meet some hijabi runners. Most of them just finished their HM. They finished strong too.

They are doing well today ;) Congrats guys!

They did well today 😉 Congrats guys!

Running events are where runners get to meet each other

Running events are where runners get to meet each other

This is my beautiful and strong Iranian friend,..she is doing 4 h 30 min in FM..congrats Reem!

This is my beautiful and strong Iranian friend,..she did 4 h 30 min for FM..congrats Reem!

I was very happy to see people running,..either young or old, skinny or obese,..they choose to run. Lets keep running and be inspired!

I flew back to Kuching at 3:15pm feeling accomplished.

Till we meet again 😉

  дебетовые карты с кэшбеком

Malaysia Women Marathon

Did you know that until 1967, no women participated in a full marathon event? Katherine Switzer broke that record and signed up as a gender-neutral “K. Switzer” in Boston Marathon. When reporters realised she was a lady, she made headlines. She continued fighting to empower women in sports, and the rest is history. Imagine what would have happened if Katherine Switzer decided not to run! I am so glad that female-friendly races are becoming more common these days. Fast forward to 2016, inspired by Katherine Switzer’s legacy, I was honoured to run under Team Nashata in the full marathon category for Malaysia Women Marathon.

IMG_3061 IMG_3060An opportunity to run with the ladies of Nashata? Why yes of course!

When the gun goes off at exactly 4.00am, it’s show time. Game face on, it is time for a second shot at completing a full marathon. This time, the challenge lies not in the distance, but in the cut off time. I have never completed a full marathon in 6 hours and 30 minutes. My personal best at 42km was during Pink Ultra when I clocked in just slightly under 7 hours. So shaving off 30 minutes will be a struggle.

IMG_3067Excited for pacer duties, boys?

Everything was fine and I was ahead of schedule up to the 30km check point. The last 10km was the hardest part, especially the highway route. The rolling hills along the LKSA highway, the heat, the emptiness…you can run for miles without bumping into anybody. The highway route felt like forever to complete. At this point, it was a battle between the mind and the body. Many people started walking, and I felt like I should start walking too. I was glad that I had my pacer with me. We didn’t talk much, but at least he was there to keep me company. He pushed me to continuously run, no matter how slow I went, which I tried to abide to (in protest!). In the end I ended up with the walk-run-walk-run cycle just like everyone else, and my pace fell dramatically towards the end. Not to mention the confusing signage and unclear direction from the marshall at the 38km, causing most participants to lose precious time hesitating which direction they should go.

 

Hunger was slowly settling in too. But I was surprised that the only food provided along the way was only bananas, apples, and pears. I was accustomed to seeing at least some biscuits, chips, ice-cream, or at least Coca-cola in most long distance events, so the lack of sweet and salty snacks spread was pretty surprising. Luckily, I had my energy gel with me, and my pacer bought along some protein drink mix.

 

IMG_3064The last few hundred metres push. Believe me, I wasn’t smiling if it wasn’t for the camera.

IMG_3068Spotted any of these cheer squad along the way? Boys, your macho level and manliness just went up a notch in those tutu skirts and pompoms!

I managed to conclude my 2nd attempt at a full marathon in 6 hours and 33 minutes, exceeding the cut off time by 3 minutes. Now I wished that I listened to my pacer because he was right when he said “Hey no pain, no gain, girl!”. I have to train harder for my next full marathon in a few months time, because it is not fun being among the last ones to arrive!

IMG_3069Full marathon and half marathon finishers.

 

Until next week,

The Weekend Runner.

Celebrating Womanhood : We Pledge To Help Women Achieve Their Fitness Goals

We celebrate the glory of womanhood everyday. But every year on the 8th March, we celebrate the International Women’s Day. In Malaysia, we celebrate fitness for woman at the Malaysia Women Marathon on the 6th March 2016. There is also Penang Zumba Carnival 2016 happening a day earlier, 5th March 2016, at the Stadium Batu Kawan, Penang.

In supporting the International Women’s Day, here’s what the people at Nashata are going to do:

1. SPECIAL OFFERS
celebrating womanhood

At the store front, we are offering ultra products for fit ladies up to 50% discount. This includes the heather tops, mumtaz hijab and amin extended hijab. The special prices are valid from now until 13th March 2016. Also available at MWM Expo on the 4th & 5th March at Rimbayu.

Here are some suggested tops that go well with the MWM running tee.

Mix and Match : Run in Style

Mix and Match : Run in Style

2. OUR PLEDGE : To Help Women Achieve Their Fitness Goals

This year we are sponsoring 8 runners from Malaysia & Singapore to run the Full Marathon (42 km) at MWM. These are ladies and pacer from various backgrounds and ages but with a common determination to run. Here are the reasons why running a full marathon is important to these awesome runners and how running has helped them in their career and daily life.

  • Ainaa Samsudin, a business analyst
    I run full marathon to challenge myself. Besides building physical strength, I am also training my willpower and mental limits to prove to myself that sometimes it’s just mind over matter. My personal goal at MWM is to finish within the cut off time. Running has helped me in my career by improving how I prioritize and manage time. I learn what is really important to me and I build a schedule to achieve my goals. The corporate world and running scene in Malaysia are not very big and these 2 fields tend to overlap so it’s helpful to have the same interest.

    Azlina & Aina During LSD Training Together

    Azlina & Aina During LSD Training Together

  • Azlina Idris , a full time mom
    I love to challenge myself and push myself out of my comfort zone. To train for a Full Marathon (FM) is not an easy task; it takes sacrifice, determination and physical and mental strength. Becoming a marathoner has been one of my most proudest moment, aside from being a wife and a mom.
    My goal at MWM is to achieve a Personal Best (PB) would be great but seeing how this will be my first FM running with my husband, the main goal would be for both of us to complete the run with no injuries and have fun while doing so.
    Running has given me a sense of balance. When everything seems a little too much, I go out for a run and the problem/issues suddenly doesn’t seem so daunting. I only wish I had discovered the joys of running when I was still working; maybe I wouldn’t have been so stressed all the time. But better late than never!
  • Nur Nahsuhah Binti Zainal Abdin, a medic student
    I love running simply because I love being challenged. When you run 42km with your own time limit, actually you are challenge yourself to do things beyond your limits and it gives you a sense of achievement and satisfaction when you achieve it. This has always teaches me to not give up in every single thing I do and to always believe in myself. Nothing is impossible. The one that can limit you is YOU. Running FM for 5 to 6 hours is not easy and harder in  hot sun..but, what that I learn along the journey is worth the heat. I enjoy  running long hours while being entertained with favourite songs ; it cheers me up in bucket of sweats. MWM is such a great event as it is conducted with much convenience for ladies who want to participate in running events. I would like to complete my run below 5 hours at upcoming MWM. Other than that I would like to be a good example to hijabist ladies, that running modestly will never affect your performance..yup, never. Running never fails to release all those stresses I have to deal with in my  hectic life as a med student. I feel much better after a run. It has helped me to be more confident, positive in many aspects of life and it has widen my network. Running always teaches me to be myself, to be me and stay me. I urge other ladies to set your goals, lace up your shoes, smile proudly to yourself and start running! Because..it does change you in positive way.
Be Inspired by Nahsuhah

Nahsuhah runs 70km a week

 

3. Fashion Tips specially for Sports Fashionista at MWM 2016

Nashata will be at the MWM Expo 4-5th March. Come look for us at Rimbayu.

At 2:15pm, 4th March we are having a 30 mins Fashion Tips specially for Sports Fashionista at the MWM Expo. We will share about how to dress comfortably yet flattering enough for you to run marathon confidently. Other than that we will be sharing some tips on how to pose and look good for photoshoots while running. Intan Suraya who will be running at the MWM always look good in front of the camera. Find out how she does it!

Intan Suraya running at Pink Ultra 50

Intan Suraya ALWAYS looking great! At the Pink Ultra 50

 

Happy International Women’s Day girls!

 

Park Marathon 2015

This is it. The only thing that stands between me and the recognition of being called a ‘marathoner’ is 2.7km, to be repeated for 16 loops around Bukit Jalil Park. So that will be 2.7km x 16 = 43.2km. In order for me to survive those 16 loops, it was important to have: an experienced friend who acted as a pacer, and an updated playlist on my phone. Ears plugged, we did not make a single sound, except the constant rhythm of our shoes hitting the pavement, with some inhaling and exhaling. I did not mind the silence, it helped me keep my focus. The only time we talked was when “I think we are going too fast/ too slow”, or “Hey, I need to go for a toilet break”, or some words of encouragement. It was too early in the morning for conversations anyways.

IMG_2261One foot in front of the next with the pacer (photo credits to Distance Force)

Suddenly, at close to KM21, there was an outburst of laughter. Has my pacer gone mad for running in loops? “Sorry, I just remembered something funny that my cousin did yesterday”. And then I realised what he was doing. He’s taking his mind off the pain which was slowly setting in, and the thought of repeating 400 meters of gain in elevation for 16 times was slowly eating away my positive motivation.

 

IMG_2272“One 400 meter of hill is ok. I can do this” was slowly turning into “I have to do this again? And again? And again??!!” (photo credits to Seven Chiam)

 

Close to KM30 I was dizzy. I thought that I no longer needed a pacer since I was more than halfway in the race anyways, so I allowed my friend to speed ahead. I tried not to think about it, but my head was spinning and I was starting to lose my balance, so I leaned in the shade of a tree for a few minutes. Thankfully, when I completed that loop there was ice cream waiting at the aid station. I even splashed a few cups of cold water onto my head to cool myself down. The quick-dry Iman hijab I was wearing helped evaporate the water quickly, so my head felt instantly refreshed. I will finish this race!

 

IMG_2269Can you tell how much we love the Iman hijab? High five, ladies! (Photo credits to Intan Suraya)

IMG_2252Is this a run or a feast? Kudos to the organizer for the sweet and salty spread to keep us fueled. Coca-cola, mineral water, and isotonic drinks were aplenty.

Halfway at the 15th loop I realised it was already 10 minutes until the cut off time. Upon reaching the aid station, the organizers handed me my finisher tee and medal, saying that I should stop since I have exceeded 7 hours. I was frustrated since I had just one more loop to complete the race, but at 1pm the park was deserted and it was too hot to continue running without supervision. As much as I wanted to complete the course, I decided it was best to listen and stop. I left the race feeling disappointed and I don’t think I will ever do another race in loops, but I’ll do 42km or more all over again at a different event.

IMG_2268It was so hot, I think I finished at least half bottle of that isotonic drink. (Photo credits to Distance Force)

IMG_2263I am so over. with. running. in. loops…. (Photo credits to Distance Force)

IMG_2257But I’ll gladly do 42km all over again in a normal course.

Until next week,

The Weekend Runner.

The Weekend Runner: Kuching Marathon 2015

“Kitak dah Subuh kah?” (“Have you prayed Fajr?”), asked some friendly uncles and aunties as I ran past them as they walked from the mosque.

“Aok, lepas azan kamek terus solat” (“Yes I did, I prayed as soon as the adhan finished”), I replied in broken Sarawakian, laced with a noticeable KL accent.

Thanks for the friendly prayer reminder, aunties and uncles! Indeed, performing Fajr (morning prayers) was a breeze during the Kuching Marathon because the route was dotted with a few mosques and surau at almost every 2-3 km along the way. As usual, most half marathon events flag off early before dawn, around 5-5.30a.m. Armed with my usual strategy to pray on-the-go, I ensured that I am cleansed with wudhu (ablutions) before running, tried my best to remain in that cleansed state, and pray as soon as I hear the adhan (calling of prayers) even if I have to pray by the roadside. However, this was not necessary as there were plenty of mosques and surau along the way.

Usually, I would also bring along a waist pack to store an unopened bottle of mineral water (just in case if I have to perform the wudhu again), my phone, energy gel, money, etc. as my running pants had limited pocket space. However, I forgot to pack my waist pack from KL but I remembered that the Azeeza Zip Up I was wearing had a hidden pocket on the right sleeve. Now, with the additional pocket space, I can store my essentials while only holding the water bottle.

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One could not have too many pockets. This cleverly designed wrist pocket was discreet yet spacious enough to fill with some money and cards.

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The hidden pocket can be stretched to accommodate a pack of energy gel too. This was the energy gel provided for free at 12KM check point.

 

We were not sure if the organizers planned this route for the convenience of Muslim runners, or it was just coincidence since we had to pass by some Malay villages so prayers facilities were plenty. However, I appreciated that the organizers displayed an admirable level of racial and religion tolerance that should be an example to other events; I was pleasantly surprised that there was a du’a (short prayer) recital just before we were flagged off, and this is not common at running events.

 

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Moment of silence while the Muslims said “Ameen” to the short prayer. Other religions were encouraged to do the same thing too in their own way.

 

Besides villages, Kuching Marathon would not be complete if we did not run past the iconic giant cat statue (Kuching is literally translated as ‘cat’). There was a long line up to take pictures with this cat statue during the race. We were too focused on sprinting towards the finishing line since it was the final 2KM, so we went back at night to take pictures.

IMG_0133Oh hey cat with vest, did you get a finisher t-shirt too?

IMG_0132It would be pretty cool if the organizers put vests on this family of cats too!

 

Overall, this event was well-organized as it met most of the participant’s expectations. We hope that the organizers keep up with the same standards next year, as we plan to return with an even bigger team and run the full marathon.

 

IMG_0104After approximately 6 hours and 36 minutes, we spotted our only team mate who ran a full marathon and sprinted towards the finishing line together.

11889453_10207260390497879_7319495245154347458_nMedal design: Cute, or cliche? 

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IMG_0108Only one of us ran the full marathon. Hopefully, next year we’ll be back and all of us will run the full marathon too.

 

Until next week,

The Weekend Runner.

Top Young Muslimah In Marathon

Nur Nahsuhah, a medical student, who flew in from Sibu, Sarawak for the Malaysia Women Full Marathon finished 7th for Emerald Category, and 48th position overall. A week prior to that, she finished top 2 at her virgin full marathon  X12 Dark Run at Nexus Karambunai Resort & SPA, Kota Kinabalu. Her personal best time was at MWM : 4 hour 49 minutes, and this included a few minutes of Subuh praying time. Her run at MWM was 5 minutes faster than her first full marathon!

Nur Nahsuhah at MWM 2015

Nur Nahsuhah at MWM 2015

We got to know Nur Nahsuhah up-close and personal during MWM. She was all excited to meet other runners, most of whom she got to know via social network.

Nahsuhah, now 22,  is the second child of seven siblings. She grew up in Taiping and later went to SMK Raja Permaisuri Bainun in Ipoh, Perak. Since school, she enjoyed running long distance and participated in the school cross country runs. A hardworking girl, Nahsuhah scored all As for Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and was awarded scholarship to study medicine at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). While at university, Nahsuhah always find time to run. She runs with her lecturer and sometimes alone.

 

WHEN DID RUNNING START?

Nahsuhah has been participating the running events since she was in school such as school Sports Day and Cross Country event. She began to slow down her participation on running events after she left the school but still does her training everyday to build her stamina. This continues despite her commitment on studying her foundation in medical course. She rose up and started participating in running events when she was in the first year of degree in medical school because this was where she owns her free time.  Prior to her virgin full marathon she ran several half marathons and other runs mainly in Borneo. It’s amazing for a 22 year old lady to participate in running events. You’d typically see ladies mid-20s and above in running events. To Nahsuhah, running makes her happy.

 

3 THINGS THAT MOTIVATE HER TO RUN

  • She is motivated to run basically because she is in medical field of study. Here, she learns how disease can be spread, the pathophysiology of it, and majority depends on the eating diet and whether you are being active or not. Healthy lifestyle is something that should be compulsory in everyone’s life.
  • Besides, her passion on running has always driven her to run in whatever emotions. It could be when she’s sad, stress or even happy. The feeling when she sweats and achieved her running goal always excites her despite exhaustion.
  • The part on making her parents proud of what she is capable of; like scoring in academic and sports is what she aims for. She realised that her achievement on being a successful strong woman could be highlighted  for other muslims in motivating them to stay healthy while being modest. It shows that muslimah does not need to wear tight and short clothes exposing their aura to win the race. She also mentioned,”Running is sunnah, isn’t it? Lets be blessed in whatever things we do because our goal is to enter Jannah, insyaAllah.”

 

TOP 3 THINGS THAT MAKE HER RUN WELL

  • Always go for training everyday or at least 5 times a week. Each session she always spend 30 to 45 minutes for 5 to 8km and only training for my long run during weekends, twice a month others only short run. Training keep her fit and make her confident to sign up the event.
  • Always take healthy food to keep her body doing well especially for an athlete, the food is very important. She always have her oat+raisin+milk for my breakfast, rice+vege +protein for lunch, and for dinner she will have wholemeal bread or biscuits with milk. She will make sure she drinks 3L of water everyday to keep her hydrated. In between meal she will have fruits as snacks.
  • Proper attire is utmost important especially if she’s doing long run. She said, “That’s why I choose Nashata. I love the fabric so much. I will sweat like buckets but my attire still feels light and comfy. It helps to shade off the sweat unlike cotton clothes, you will end up feel heavy and not comfortable”. She also said she likes the Nashata hijab too. It is simple, nice and keeps her looking good even after 3 to 5 hours run. And Nashata provides a lot of colour variation that can always match up with running event theme. Since she is a student she is trying to save up for more Nashata collections.

HER ATTIRE

Nahsuhah is very particular about her attire when she runs. She runs in Nashata Ultra Top and Riada Pants as they are modest, lightweight and comfortable for long distance running. She does not wear additional attire or gears to support her run. She only carries a phone to entertain her while running. That is how simple running for performance is for Nahsuhah!

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Nahsuhah at her Runs

 

HER DIET

Since she spends a lot of time at the hospital, she eats what’s serve at the hospital. Most of the time, they are healthy food with little oil and a lot of soup. Even prior to that, while growing up Nahsuhah claims her mother discouraged snaking in between meals and did not allow having drinks with ice. With a father from navy background, Nahsuhah like her other siblings are trained to be disciplined and hardworking. They too are performing excellently in their studies. Her younger brother who sat SPM recently, also followed her footsteps scoring all As!

Soon to be doctor and a winning runner, Nahsuhah will soar high, InsyaAllah.

 

Virgin Full Marathon for the Wimpy Legs

The wimpy legs finally ran a full marathon. They ran the first half marathon December 21st 2014, at the Cyberjaya Twincity Marathon. The experience running first half marathon was shared separately on another post.

Time flies and 3 months after the first 21km run, the wimpy legs ran their first full marathon at the Malaysia Women Marathon (MWM) 2015.

Why MWM?

MWM has been close to my heart as it was where I met Intan Suraya in March 2013. I still remember waking up early at 3am and driving to I-City Shah Alam where I was introduced to Intan, a hijabist runner. Eda Fatimawati introduced me to Intan as I wanted to find out how running in hijab was like. Intan was wearing a ‘bawal’ hijab back then and was very happy to share her experience briefly right before she ran the full marathon at MWM.

On March 15th, 2014, we launched Nashata at MWM 2014. We were also the title sponsor for the 5km Fun Run.

Later on October 8, 2014, I decided to run Full Marathon at MWM 2015. Although the longest distance I ran at that moment was 10 km, I just signed up for it and worked backwards.

Training

After my first Half Marathon, I was not able to train much as I was busy with work. The longest distance I ran was 17 km on 11th January with Eda and 16 km on the 3rd February. I was supposed to have ran 30 km twice by 15th Feb, but I didn’t. I was far behind with training.

I was added into a running support group managed by MWM and this is what the training plan was like.

Full Marathon Training Plan
Full Marathon Training Plan

I was only able to collect mileage religiously back again after 16th February. At times, I ran alone at 9 pm and 5am even if I needed to.

Even so, the longest distance I ran was 17 km,  which was on the 28th Feb, a week before MWM 2015. I did not collect enough mileage and was aiming to finish my run within 6 hours. Karen Loh, the MWM Race Director was kind to ask about my progress every week. She reminded me to run 30 km before the full marathon.

Note : Please do not follow my training record. It is not recommended at all.

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Last Run 28 Feb : 17 km only

What about my diet?

I was told to drink a lot water until my urine is clear at all times. So I did, with a lot of coke light and coke zero in between (that was not part of the dietary plan).The weather was dry and hot a week before the run, so it was super important to keep my body hydrated. I was told to eat healthy and to eat a lot of carbs a few days before the run. I took a lot of rice, bagels and fruits. I bought a few bagels two days before the run and kept eating them. I felt fat but I guess it was necessary.

Before  the run, I had a bagel and a glass of milk and water. I prepared more food with me, which included hard boil eggs, banana, Yes, it was like preparing for a picnic.

Attire & Gears?

I wanted to run light so I wore my favorite Nashata skirt compression pants, blue ultra top and amin hijab. Initially I planned to bring along a visor as I was worried about the morning sun, but left it behind as i didn’t want to run with too many things with me. I didn’t wear hydration belt either as I was hoping to bump into many many water stations along the way. I brought 2 energy gels in my pocket and my phone (which I initially planned to leave).

The Run, the Race

Intan Suraya, Nur Nahsuhah and I arrived Dataran Merdeka, 5 minutes before flag off. Off my wimpy legs, running the first full marathon. My pace was 7.10 min/km for the first 10 km. The pace dropped to 7.45 min/km at 20 km, and continued to drop to 8 min / km at 28.5km. My challenge started after my pelvic stiffed 30 km onwards. My lower body movement was restricted. I was running non-stop most of the time but could not go fast. Throughout the run, I Dhikr. I was scared and needed help. 

One of the marshals told me to drink salt water. Perhaps my body looked stiff. Indeed I drank a lot of salt water after that. I ran without feeling thirsty throughout the run. There were many water stations with choices of water, salt water and revive at all times. After my 21km, I took Revive and salt water at every stop. I consumed the energy gel provided at the water station and another from my pocket at 30 km.

I had no pacer, so I had to push myself as much as I could. I was right behind MWM’s 4 hr 30 mins pacers, then 5 hr and later 5 hr 30 mins pacers. It was at the last 8 km of the run, I could not cope with the pace and ran slowly. Moreover, it was getting hot. Then came the 6 hr pacers over taking me at 37 km.

Cheeky Pacers

Cheeky Pacers

That was when I tried to push harder. It was hard as my pelvic was ‘locked’. I even felt my hands were swinging faster than my legs. It must have looked really funny. At 39 km was when I saw my husband waiting for me by the road. His presence helped me to move faster.

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Dragging wimpy legs at 41 km

I reached the finishing line at 5 hr 49 mins with no injury. I was happy to see my family members waiting for me for many many hours. My legs are no longer wimpy but my pelvic needs some work. I experienced stiffness around my pelvic area both at half and full marathon. Even though the pain came a lot later at full marathon, but it is an area I need to improve. My overall pace was 8.27 mins/km.

wimpy legs

Recovery

I suffered from zero injury and recovered within a day. It was painless compared to recovery from Mount Kinabalu climb. My legs were a bit sore for a day after the run. I had to stretch out my body for half a day after the run; no twist nor turn as there were also weak. I managed to run 4 km 2 days after MWM and 5 km 4 days after the run, and I was alrite.

International & National Full Marathon Standards

Based on Running USA, the average median finishing time for a full marathon for women is 4 hours 41 minutes, while in Asian countries like Malaysia, the median for women, based on the recent Malaysia Women Marathon is higher; 5 hours 40 minutes. Why the big gap ? We will have to find out. The would-be qualifying time for me at the New York Marathon for example is 3 hour 26 mins. My current timing is for age 70 years old and above.

Summary Full Marathon MWM 2015

Summary Full Marathon MWM 2015

But meanwhile, it was good to see more and more sisters running off late. The recent MWM brought together 298 full marathon runners internationally, mainly from Malaysia. Although there was a drop in terms of participation for full marathon and half marathon this year, we saw new and old faces participating in the run, mostly pushing themselves to tougher categories.

Here’s a picture of very happy runners who completed their full marathon that day. Wimpy legs would definitely run again, but next time around with stronger pelvic and more sisters together! If the wimpy legs can run a full marathon, so can others!
Sisters who ran their first Full Marathon at MWM. (except Intan Suraya)

Sisters who ran their first Full Marathon at MWM. (except Intan Suraya who is an avid marathoner)