Though postings on this blog have been sparse (I apologise...), running has continued to fill my time whenever possible. Notwithstanding the apparently ever increasing work demands, heading out for a run still brings a smile to my face after all these years. Granted, the joints ache more and muscles are less supple - indeed, my therapist had a good laugh relating how inflexible I was - but the feeling of running free is still as enticing as ever.
There were previous grand plans for a Maui Marathon in September. Sadly though, it coincides exactly with a work commitment so I have to pass on that for now. So the next major event will be the Army Half Marathon in September, followed probably by the Standard Chartered Marathon in December.
I had a bit of trouble dragging myself out of bed this morning. A phone call around midnight interrupted by pre-LSD sleep. Thankfully, it wasn't anything critical :) But after hydrating myself and getting the necessary gear in order, I was out the door. The pre-dawn air was thick and heavy. The past few days have been exceptionally hot. If even the early mornings are warm, you can imagine how searing the heat is at midday.
I plodded along the quiet streets, arms swinging gently by my side and eyes focused on the road ahead. A few late night stragglers were still roaming the streets, remnants of the parties from the night before. A group of them was crowded around the street crossing ahead of me, but they appeared benign enough so I continued past them without a detour.
Shuffling along my planned route, I tried to adjust my stride to a more optimum rate and length. Barely 2 km into my run, I was already drenched with perspiration, thanks to the high humidity. The occasional car would pass by, with the decreasing pitch of its engine aptly demonstrating the doppler effect each time. With each step, I left the emails, to-do-lists, complaints, workplans, office politics, worries and other unimportant urgent matters behind.
The Dunearn-Bukit Timah stretch was much busier. The massive on-going MRT construction here seems to be taking forever, but I am sure the residents and students in this area are looking forward to the opening of the train stations. Weaving in and out of the various construction detours, I soon cleared this giant construction area and back on the straight and narrow.
The Ghim Moh-Clementi canal stretch is always a fun one for me. This clear 2 km segment without vehicles is always filled with other runners and walkers. Very nice to be amidst other people on the weekend exercise routine. People-watching helps take my mind off the fatigue that starts to set in at this point (about the 13-14 km mark).
Home stretch for me is the Alexandra Park connector. Recently rebuilt to become a water recreation area, it is also a popular spot for senior citizens to stroll and admire the water in the giant canal leading to the Singapore River. Will share some pictures next time :)
All in all, a good enjoyable easy run. Nice to oil the joints and stretch the legs a little. Seems like things should be on track for AHM in about 2.5 months :)
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