KC & the Sunshine Runners

FRIM hoi kung Trail Running

2012-01-29T18:00:00.000+08:00

The group went for another hoi kung (start work) trail running at FRIM on Saturday, 28 January 2012. One of the attractions was to 'jin wan' (energize your luck) by going round the foothills of Salem High Country.

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC). Hit F11 key to adjust the appropriate size of displays.

Passing by Sungei Buloh nursery ... KC Leong, Koh, Kenny Kwan, Debbie, TanWL, ChongYF, Simon Goh ... Rupert Chen holding camera.

Led by Kenny Kwan, we started the run at Sungei Buloh Hospital, passing by the nursery of Sungei Buloh witnessing the flowers in full bloom to usher in the Year of the Dragon. We ran through the kampung area then entered into FRIM and arrived at the Steroid Hill.

Running up Steroid Hill was tough; it took a lot of determination to continue the uphill journey without stopping. We then ran round the foothills of Salem High Country. The second and equally tough uphill run was racing up to the peak of this hill.

We saw that the trails were labelled by the authority. Steroid Hill is called Tongkat Ali Trail while the trail to the peak of Salem High Country is called Pinus Trail that has almost similar sound for the English version (that is related to Tongkat Ali).

After energizing our luck, we than ran to Taman Botani Kepong (still inside FRIM) to have a few photo shoot of Huat-li-wood (as in Bollywood) in action. We then ran back to where we parked our cars.

Based on Simon Goh's new Garmin 610 Forerunner watch, it was computed that we have run a total of 15km.

Pretty ladies, macho and handsome guys, and beautiful flowers ... Forget about running for a while ... :-)

Eight runners for energizing our luck ... sure fattttttttt in the Year of the Dragon ... :-) The eighth person (ChongYF) is holding the camera.

Okay... it is Salem High Country ... cool

Huat-li-wood (as in Bollywood) in motion ...

At Taman Botani Kepong (still inside FRIM)

Beautiful flowers in full bloom ... for the auspicious Chinese New Year

Still passing by the nursery ... Rupert, KC Leong, Debbie, TanWL and ChongYF

Macho guys and pretty ladies flanked by abundance of flowers in full bloom.

Do click here for the first hoi kung (start work) trail running at Kota Damansara on 25 Jan 2012.
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Gong Xi Gong Xi
The Year of the Dragon

Posted by KC Leong

KDCF Trail Running

2012-01-25T16:27:00.001+08:00

The group gathers for a 'hoi kung' (start work) trail running on 25 January 2012, the 3rd day of the auspicious lunar new Year of the Dragon. Led by Kenny Kwan, the group moved swiftly along the narrow and meandering trails in the forest reserve of Kota Damansara.

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC). Hit F11 key for bigger displays.

The entrance of the trail is near to SMK Seksyen 10 of Kota Damansara

The air was fresh and the ground was soft after a few days of daily rain on Chinese New Year's days – water signifies money which is good feng shui for another challenging year ahead. The terrain here is not too tough, something similar to Bukit Kiara. Tough the trail is narrower here, the air is better without the funny smell emitting from the latex as in Bukit Kiara.

Gong Xi Fa Chai Trail Running ... (Left) Tiger, Kenny Kwan, Jessen Lee, ChongYF, ChinWM, Bunny, PK Chan, Sue, KC Leong.

One challenging effort for this trail running: one has to pay extra attention on the trail; at certain areas, the trail is like a 'minefield' of small tree stumps (that have been cut and left a few inches above the ground) that are well camouflage with the tree leaves. I tripped and fell twice. The second fall was quite bad – the downward momentum was pushing my face knocking on the ground. Another interesting encounter happened to Sue; she tripped and fell twice at the same area during the forward and returning journey.

When taking group photos, I distributed the red packets for photo shoot in ushering another new year ahead. Later, PK Chan commented that it was a surprise as they were real ang pows.

On the right of photo frame is the hill for trail running. This is the Ayam Exit (chicken out) which is half the distance of the entire loop. The interesting fact is that this point is nearer to the entrance of the main trail. According to our senses on the terrain, we thought that this point should be further away from the trail head.

Return to base. Sue is busy picking out the weeds that are attached to her running tights.

PK Chan distributing CNY oranges and cookies for this Gong Xi Fa Chai trail running.

This is sifu skill ... Kenny showing one of his skillful acts. Ah... it is safe that you try it at home also ... :-)

Yours truly's (KC) bruised knee ... after doing trail running for countless time, I trip and fall twice in this trail running. The second one is quite serious - the momentum is strong that my face is knocking on the ground ... :-)

Posted by KC Leong

Gong Xi Fa Chai 2012

2012-01-21T12:32:00.000+08:00

May you run faster and further, or trek higher mountains in the coming new year.

Looong = Dragon in Mandarin

Posted by KC Leong

Zhineng Qi Gong (Subang Jaya) Annual Dinner

2012-01-15T11:12:00.002+08:00

Zhineng Qigong (Subang Jaya) Annual Dinner on Saturday, 14 January 2012 was held at the posh Grand Imperial Restaurant, USJ 19 City Mall (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia). It was a night of good food, games, karaoke contest and entertaining moments with the lively hosting of event by the of Master of Ceremony, Mr Yong, who is also a chi gong member. Well, all are qigong practitioners here, including yours truly (KC) who volunteers to be the cameraman of the evening. The event was graced by Advanced Level Qigong Masters from China, Mr. Lu Lin Kun and Ms Zheng Bai Ling.

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC) ... hit F11 key for bigger displays.

The posh interior of Grand Imperial @ USJ 19 City Mall

Neat and tidy setting of each table

Graced by the Advanced Level Qigong Masters from China: Mr Lu Lin Kun and Ms Zheng Bai Ling

The ladies in red

Lou Sang in welcoming the arriving of Chinese New Year in a week's time

Multi-tasking -- participants hurriedly identifying the correct CNY songs

Karaoke contest time ... full of admiration by Soo sifu

The |Most Manly contest ... demonstrating a manly walk ... :-)

The most well-dressed contest

Cheers! Cheers!

The lucky winner for the grand prize of lucky draw ... presented by Mr. Liow Kim Heng, Chairman of Zhineng Qigong (M'sia); left is Master of ceremony, Mr. Yong.

The main group photo

One for the album ... yours truly (KC) is at front, right #2; left most is Mr Chan, my sifu for the chi gong class ... Alan sifu (L2), Soo sifu (L3), Tan sifu (L4), and a few lady sifu too; Alex (R1) is the main organizer of this event.

Do click here for the official website.
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Do click here to view the previous posting on Zhineng chi gong retreat course at GohTong Jaya, Genting Highlands.

Posted by KC Leong

Bukit Kiara Trail Running

2012-01-05T21:10:00.002+08:00

Lead by Kenny Kwan, the group went for a trail running in the new year at Bukit Kiara (Taman Tun Dr Ismail) on Monday, 2 January 2012. It was really a good and challenging run tackling from one trail to another going through Flying Carpets, 2K, Interloop, Snake & Ladder, Twinpeak, Kampung, etc. An interesting observation is that we went through Bukit Kiara Equestrian Park which is on the far end from the starting point, and then return via the trails again.

The weather was fine and the ground was dry as it was without rain for a few days. In these hills, we could see that the rubber trees are being tapped by rubber tappers and the latex is collected using plastic cups and not the conventional and reusable porceline cups. Unique to rubber plantation is that certain areas are smelly with the left over latex.

Please click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC Leong).

(Back, left) Shen Lee, Kenneth Teh, Tri Stupe, Jessen Lee, Kenny Kwan, Jezamine, LeePK, Kristy Chew, ChongYF, KC Leong;
(Front): Sue, Tri Stupe's wife, Kong Phuitin, Yeoh Chit Hui, YapKP, Debbie, Wendy Liw, Monsy's sister and Monsy.

At the cross-road of Bukit Kiara

Open for business? That looks like the Dragon Inn as in the latest Jet Li's sword-fighting movie 'Flying Swords of Dragon Gate'... :-)

Taking a breather

Walk across Bukit Kiara Equestrian Park ... all start with the right feet ...

Neat and nice pose

Team Lead Kenny Kwan and all the pretty ladies ...

Monsy and Jezamine Lo

By the stream of Bukit Kiara-lon (as in By the river of Babylon)

Latex is collected using a plastic and not the conventional cup (as in rubber estates)

We meet a group of mountain bikers (MTB) going through the same direction ... According to Tri Stupe, MTB also mean 'Mari Tolak Basikal'... :-)

Do click here to view previous postings on trail running at Bukit Kiara (this posting is repeated; do scroll down the pages)

Posted by KC Leong

Start of 2012 Fireworks

2012-01-01T18:30:00.000+08:00

Huge crowd at Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur on 31 December 2011 to usher in the new year 2012 with the performances and fireworks display.

Please click here to view complete photo albums created by yours truly (KC Leong).

All spectactors are sitting on the field to enjoy the performances (in order not to block the views of others)

Sultan Abdul Samad Building that changes colour display

With Sultan Abdul Samad Building as background

With DBKL as background

A special fireworks display hosted by Am Bank

Do click here for a series of past fireworks display (this posting is repeated; scroll down the pages)

Posted by KC Leong

FRIM Trail Running

2011-12-26T20:20:00.000+08:00

Lead by Grace Tabitha, this time, we start the trail running from Greenhill Apartment, Selayang/Kepong on Monday, 26 December 2011 (which is a national holiday) at 9:00 a.m.

We went via Dream Trail; connect to Rover Track then enter to Syabas Trail; visit the mini pool and proceed to Pacat Trail and emerge at Mountain Bike Trail. We then went to Taman Botani Kepong; detour for noodle soup; re-enter into FRIM and return via Dream Trail again - a memorable journey that takes 5 hours.

The weather was fine; it was breezy and cooling before 10a.m., and the air was fresh. At Dream Trail (connecting to Rover Track), it was fairly dark with lots of leaves covering the ray of light above.

Special thanks to Grace who is knowledgable about the various trails in FRIM which we are not familiar with. After going to FRIM for so many times, this is the first time that we could explore more territories.

Please click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC).

Starting at the Greenhill Apartment, Selayang ... KC Leong, Lady Su, Jeff Ooi and Grace Tabitha.

Running towards Dream Trail

The trails that we covered:
1. Taman Didara Trail
2. Dream Trail
3. Rover Track
4. Syabas Trail
5. Pacat Trail
6. Mountain Bike Track
7. Sentang Trail
8. Taman Botani Kepong
9. FRIM and return via oppisite end of Dream Trail.

Lady Su, Grace Tabitha, Jeff Ooi

The Dream Trail connects to Rover Track

Take a photo with sign turning into Pacat Trail. The Pacat Trail will connect to Mountain Bike Trail later.

At the mini reservoir or pool at the far end of Syabas Trail

Water cascading down the stream

We emerge from Pacat Trail and connect to the Mountain Bike Trail

At the lakeside of Taman Botani Kepong

Scenic place for relaxation

Almost 12 noon, adjourn to Taman Ehsan for a bowl of noodle soup (after 3 hours of trail running) ... our creative artists at work

Re-entering FRIM to return to Greenhill Apartment; stop at a pond (inside FRIM) to see the huge fish

Grace leads us to take a look at the Kapur Trees with its unique feature that is documented in National Geographic. Notice that the leaves of the trees do not touch one aonther's. Do view photo album above for a few other shots.

Extracted from FRIM website: Of particular interest is the "puzzle-like" pattern of the individual tree crowns separated by gaps and outlined against the sky. This phenomenon is called "Crown Shyness". The reason for its name is because the leaf tips of the Dryobalanops Aromatica appear to be shy towards their own kind, hence forming the gap.

This tree is also known as kapur tree and has a nice-smelling exudate known as camphor, one of the main component of making ointment. The ointment is used for stomach massages after child delivery.

Do click here to visit blogsite by Grace Tabitha on FRIM and Taman Botani Kepong.

Do click here for other trail running on FRIM Kepong (this posting is repeated; scroll down the pages).

Posted by KC Leong

Zhineng Qigong (M'sia) Retreat Class

2011-12-19T13:00:00.000+08:00

Yours truly (KC) participated in Zhineng Qigong (Malaysia) 1st, 2nd and 3rd Modules Upgrading Course from 16 to 18 December 2011 at Goh Tong Jaya, Genting Highlands.

Please click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC).

At Mawar Apartments, Goh Tong Jaya, Genting Highlands with the cool, fresh and serene environment most suitable for a country retreat.

The advanced level Qigong Master from China, Lu Lin Kun, illustrating the finer and correct way of mastering qigong

Class in action ... Harness qi (chi) from universe and direct into one self

Attention to details ... another advanced level Qigong Master from China, Zheng Bai Ling

The main committee ... the event is graced by the Chairman, Liow Kim Heng (Right 7), Qigong Master Lu Lin Kun (R6) and Qigong Master Zheng Bai Ling (R6)

Participants for the retreat class

Parcipants from Subang Jaya, Selangor (one of the centres) ... yours truly (KC) is standing at left most

Receiving the long-service award by Su teacher (left 2); presented by Liow Kim Heng, the Chairman of Zhineng Qigong (Malaysia); Qigong Master Zheng Bai Ling (R1) and Qigong Master Lu Lin Kun, both are advanced level masters from China.

The lady achievers from Subang Jaya, Selangor

Yours truly (KC) receiving the certification

Please click here to visit the official website for Zhineng Qigong (Malaysia).

Instruction for downloading photos:

When in the photo album, click SLIDESHOW (at top left corner) to view photos.

Point at a photo, right click and select "save picture as ..." and save into your PC.

Note: if you are not in SlideShow mode, you must click Full Screen button first (same position as in SlideShow icon) before you download photo; otherwise, you will download a smaller file.

Posted by KC Leong

adiNation Trail Run

2011-12-11T18:30:00.000+08:00

Cahaya SPK, Puncak Alam -- The starting/ending of adiNation Trail Run

This is the fourth and the final series in 2011 for the adiNation of Runners Breakfast Run. For a change in flavour, there is certain amount of trail running incorporated in this run. Based on the previous successful series, the organizer, Adidas, has to restrict the number of participants to 500 only.

The weather this morning (Sunday, 11 Dec 2011) was gloomy and cloudy as compared to yesterday’s sunny blue sky. Nevertheless, the calm weather (before the storm) was most suitable for a run nestled within the new housing estate of Cahaya SPK, Punchak Alam in Shah Alam district -- where the houses here are costing RM 1 million and above each.

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC).

Extra Challenge - The ground is wet after a heavy downpour yesterday late afternoon

Overall, the run was well organized with two water stations in such a short 7.8km run. There was lot of food for breakfast after the run.

The icing on the cake must be the lucky draws other than the prizes for top runners. Adidas Malaysia is most generous to dish out many draws such as designer sunglasses, running vests, T-shirts, shorts, pants, backpacks, balls, etc. The runners were truly enjoying themselves going through the process of the draw with Mr. Krishnan, Head of Running of Adidas (M), and Julie Wong, one of the volunteers in assisting to organize this memorable event.

Running around the housing estate devoid of any vehicles

Approaching the finishing line

Yours truly (KC) posing at the finishing line

Nasi lemak and cereal breakfast after the run -- KC, Daniel, Raymond Ng, ChooTS, Lady Su.

hmmm... the shoes look quite clean even after going through the muddy ground

In the deep of action ... :-)

Prize presentation and lucky draws ... on the left is Mr Krishnan, Head of Running of Adidas (M)

Star power attraction -- Yum Kin Kok receives the awards for participating in all the Adidas King of the Road events in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Manila, Indonesia and Thailand in 2011.

The runners enjoying themselves with the lucky draws ... the wet patch is yours truly's seat

Julie Wong (in blue) calling the numbers of the lucky winners

Do click here for the 3rd adiNation Run participated by yours truly.

Posted by KC Leong

At FRIM Kepong

2011-12-04T10:12:00.001+08:00

The ground at the tracks inside FRIM was soft after a marathon rain the evening before. Besides, the air was cool and fresh, a perfect morning for trekking or trail running to be staged there. It was a small group of trekkers/trail runners participating in this FRIM outdoor trip on Saturday, 3 December 2011 intended for the 1-Lang team formation.

Even ChooTS, who went for the Subang Jaya 10km run on Sunday, 4 Dec morning, commented that it was ‘very quiet’; he did not see the regular running enthusiasts around. I could understand the situation as many would be away as it is year-end holidays; besides, both the Singapore International Marathon and Angkor Wat Marathon are being held the same weekend.

(Right) KC Leong, Wendy Liu, Li-Ann; (Left) Miss Lee (L2) and parents, SC Yong, Ms Tan. The 1-Lang members are Wendy, Li-Ann and SC Yong.

Since all can run, we have trail running instead ... Wendy Liu and Le-Ann

Beyong Mountain Bike area

SC Yong and I were chatting that it is also fun to buy a mountain bike and cycle around here. He was told that a good one would cost RM 20,000 ... not long after that, we saw a group of mountain bikers and this nice looking bike caught our attention. Brand: Chaoyang from China; price: RM 1,800

Looks good and serve the purpose for new enthusiast into BMX challenge

Posted by KC Leong

Bukit Kiara Trail Running

2011-11-29T22:00:00.000+08:00

It was a very satisfying trail running atBukit Kiara (or Kiara Hill at Taman Tun Dr Ismail) as planned on Monday, 28 Nov2011 which is a national holiday. Led by Kenny Kwan who is dubbed as ‘theTrails Recognition Master of Kiara Hill’ (as he could remember the trails very well), we ran through many trails at theinner part of Kiara Hill.

We ran through the Mountain Bikes route, Horseback Trail, in and outof the tarred road; crossing stream, to View Point, and return to car park viaFlintstone trail for a good 2-hour trail runs. It was really challengingindeed. The icing on the cake is that the air was fresh and cool, and theground was soft with the daily continuous rain in the preceding evenings. Yeah!No leeches here!

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC).

Happy and Good Feeling ... Group photo atBukit Kiara Playground.

Back (left): KC Leong, Jeff Ooi, Simon Goh,Choo TS, SC Yong, Kenny Kwan (Team Lead), ChooTS, David Spence, Mak CK, YimHeng Fatt, Jason Loh;

Front: Wendy Liu, Peck Yah, Eileen, Debbie,Jezamine Lo, Karen Loh, Chooi Wai, Lady Su.

On the far right is JasonLoh, a gifted and young road-racing runner that can run very fast.

Another smaller group who were trekking wasled by Kah Kheng who is also familiar with the various trails in Kiara Hill.This group consisted of Eileen, Wendy Liu, Peck Yah and Chooi Wan (who is firsttime joining us in the trail event).

Debbie comes with her mountain-trained cute little doggie

Prelude – When CK Mak said heis the sweeper for the slower group, I was worried. The inner part of KiaraHill is full of split trails. I have been there only once following Karen Lohand Group, and I could only remember vaguely the direction inside the hills.Nevertheless, I joked to CK Mak that since the entire Kiara Hill is surroundedby massive housing development, one would certainly emerged from the jungleafter many hours.

Then to compound on to myanxiety, the initiator of this trail running event, ChinWMon, sustained injuryat the recent Penang Bridge Marathon clocking 3 hr 15 min for the fullmarathon. Bravo and Respect!! But he could not come.

So on the morning of 28 Nov2011, I was getting ready with the red ribbon markers to run into Kiara Hill totest how well I could still remember the trails.

The ray of light in the morning shiningthrough the woods that bestows good health on the trail runners below, and thedoggie also ...

At around 7:15 a.m., more andmore trail runners arrived while I constantly on the lookout for those KiaraHill trail runners that know the way. Then the light of the headlamps at theedge of the hill caught my attention: I saw Jeff Ooi, Yim Heng Fatt, Karen Lohand Jason Loh emerged from the trail. They actually started the run into thejungle at 6:30 a.m. (still in darkness) and returned to lead the way. Later,Kenny Kwan also came. Wow! I was delighted! At least you won’t see news such as‘trail runners missing in Kiara Hill’ appearing in the newspaper.

Emitting Steam – Notice the misty effect ofthis photo. There is nothing wrong with the camera lens, it is the steamemitting from the bodies amidst the cool weather.

SC Yong’s spectacles are covered withvapour. Notice also the cute little doggie that has been running the samedistance as the adults, across muddy grounds and streams.

Left is Kenny Kwan – TeamLead for this trail running.

With the famous runners: Jason Loh (on the left of photo frame) and Jeff Ooi (right)

Nice artwork - Karen Loh and Yim HF

At the View Point area ... background is the housing development

Return via Flintstone Trail ... ChooTS, Mak CK, Lady Su, Edwin Goh, Chong YF. Background is the dirt trail for mountain bikes challenges.

Debbie attending to her cute little doggie which seems to enjoy the tender care

Delicious nasi lemak courtesy of AleximonLee’s mother. Ah... I missed as I have to leave early. Aleximon (3^rdfrom right, in red T-shirt) brought the food all the way from Klang. BRAVO !!

This is how it works: while we weregathering at Bukit Kiara playground at 7:30 a.m., Karen Loh took a photo usingher iPhone; posted into Facebook where Aleximon picked up the message (andassess the number of participants) and asked his mother to prepare – excellentcamaraderie and good team work !!! (this photo courtesy of Eileen Gan)

Do click here for previous trail running at Bukit Kiara with Karen Loh and Group.

Posted by KC Leong

Post-Climbathon Dinner & Karaoke

2011-11-27T18:30:00.000+08:00

An evening of good camaraderie, splendid food and the fun ofsinging karaoke to celebrate the post-Mount Kinabalu Climbathon (that was heldon 23 Oct 2011) together. The gathering was staged at Imperial Gardens atPetaling Jaya on Saturday, 26 November 2011.

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC).Click Slideshow or Full Screen icon for larger displays.

A warm welcome extending to the arrival of Patricia Yap

Yeah, agree ... Patricia Yap, Sharon Tan, Lai Kuan, Carol, Fiona Goh, Lady Su, Monsy. The banner is a finisher souvenir from Sabah Adventure Trail Running Challenge; that event was called ‘The Most Beautiful Thing’ (TMBT) – what a name ... :-)

Dinner is served ... the first dish

Cheers to all the outdoor activities together; cheers to good health; cheers to friendship

Anti-climax -- the karaoke system is out-of-order that is hurriedly being repaired by the restaurant staff

Trade Secret - satisfactorily look from Patricia Yap after successfully mixed the potent cocktail of 'orange juice'

Testing time with the power (or powerful) drinks. The problem is that the karaoke system is not working and there is no means of 'letting go' after drinking the power drinks ... :-)

In the pink of health -- Back (Left): ChooTS, Edwin Goh, AB Tan, Ken, Dr Shara, ChongYF, CK Mak, SC Yong, Tee EK, KC Leong ...Front: Lady Su, Sharon Tan, Lai Kuan, Patricia Yap, Monsy, Carol, Fiona Goh

Creative -- Each finger of Patricia Yap is labelled as C-L-I-M-B A-T-H-O-N

Look at Lady Su's huge bling bling -- Patriacia testing out the force of attraction

Our resourceful MacGyver, Chong YF, finally get the karaoke system working at 10:30 p.m... Hip, Hip ... Hooray!!

Full of expression ... Patricia Yap and CK Mak

Yours truly (KC), CK Mak, Lai Kuan and Edwin Goh

It's My Life (Bon Jovi) ... the moment the karaoke system is fired-up, the fun and the excitment of singing is back in the air ... this is the final number before we exit at 12 mid-night. (Left) Monsy, TeeEK, Dr Shara, ChooTS, Edwin Goh, Lai Kuan, Patricia Yap, ChongYF, Lady Su.

Do click here to view previous occasions of dinner and karaoke. (this posting is repeated; do scroll down the pages).

Do click here to view previous postings on Mount Kinabalu Climbathon 22 Oct 2011

Posted by KC Leong

Office’s Sports Unity Games

2011-11-20T20:00:00.000+08:00

I am pleased to be nominated as the Main Coordinator inmy office's Sports Unity Games that was held on Saturday, 19 November 2011. Precedingthe event, there was much work in the coordination between the Main Organizerand the respective Team Captains.

Other than identifying the Team Captains and players,one challenging task is to select the right-themed T-shirts for thecontingent and sourcing for sponsored funds in the purchase of unified T-shirtsnecessary during the march-past for the unique team identification.

The contingent from my Office; on the left is the Chef de Mission.

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A total of 12 office divisions (many departments form a division) were competing in this Sports Unity Games. Every division is being assigned a colour scheme. My office division has been assigned the dark blue. Yeah, we are the true blue kaki - the unwaveringly or staunchly loyal people ... :-)

The weather for the Sports Unity Games was perfect – abright sunny day though it could be hot when the outdoor games continued at2:00 p.m.

Used to the publicly staged running events, this is aninternal office outing where the participants are colleagues within the sameorganization.

Yours truly (KC) and Mahadir, Team Captain of Volleyball

The Petronas Sports Centre at Bangi has the following well-maintainedfacilities:

1. 4 badminton courts

2. 4 volleyball courts

3. 2 netball courts

4. 1 football field

5. tennis and squash courts.

Immediately after the march-past, respective teamplayers swiftly assembled at their courts. The games in contest were football,volleyball, netball, badminton, telematch and Idol singing events.

Start of the march-past ... walking in unison, waving flags and smiling faces

Since it is not easy to stage the games on differentdays, all matches were played and completed within a day that stretched from9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A total of 12 divisions (or contingents) were keenly contest for top standings.

Playing in the indoor court (as in badminton) was mucheasier with the harmonious lighting environment throughout the day. It takesmuch more challenge playing football or volleyball, say, at 2:00 p.m. under thehot sun; most players would be 'roasted'. In volleyball, depending on thedirection, when a player looked up into the sky for the ball, one would have toovercome the disturbance of another fireball – the blazing sun!

Shake your bodies ... aerobic exercise for the warmingup.

The badminton team where yours truly (KC) isparticipating (Left 2). Left most is Mr. Lee, Chef de Mission of the officecontingent. On my left is Rudy, Badminton Team Captain. My partner in Men'sDouble is LeeMS (R2).

I am still holding my white sabre though I have changed strings a few times ... click here for more

Indoor badminton courts of Permata -- I played 4 matches against four otherteams/office divisions. A total of 12 divisions (or contingents) were played. I was glad that we got 2nd Runner-up placing though afew of the star players were not able to play on that morning due to commitmentin office work.

At Permata, Petronas Sports Centre, Bangi

The football players are still playing energetically at 3:00 p.m. under the hot sun

Posted by KC Leong

Skyrunning at Mt Gede

2011-11-14T22:00:00.000+08:00

Note by KC: I am pleased to introduce Rashel who is inspired to join the

1-LANG Team to go trekking in Langtang Nepal, October 2012.

Written by Rashel

The trail running at Mount Gede in Bogor, West Java on 5 November 2011 was special. I am glad to have the company of my good pal, Jules Picato who came and experienced it with me. It was an impromptu event; just sheer excitement to run with Jules. Many thanks to our mountain guide/host, Toto who ensure our safety during the overnight trip.

Mt. Gede, with the highest point at 2,958m, is only 10 meters lower than the famous Mount Merapi (2,968m) – the most active volcano in Java and also in Indonesia.

The run from the base to the summit of Mt Gede is about 3 hr 20 min one way. For trekkers, according to our mountain guide/host and porter, they would normally trek it for 5-6 hours.

The camping in this trip was necessary for the porters and the mountain guide/host for they have to carry the heavy load. The initial plan was to traverse Mt. Gede – Pangrango, but the mountain guide/host said that it is not possible within such a short time.

Do click here for selected photos courtesy of Rashel.

Looking Good - Rashel taking part in the recently concluded Mount Kinabalu Climbathon on 22 October 2011 with Low's Peak at the background. Two weeks later, the journey continues with Rashel at Mt Gede ...

Alun-alun with a field of Edelweiss - Jules and Rashel

Running towards the clouds ...

Taking a breather - More of the Edelweiss bushes at Alun-alun ... they are so soft to touch

Laughter in the rain - then the thunder and the lightning came; the two red riding hoods ran for dear life!

Jules and Rashel at the summit of Mt. Gede around 6:00 a.m. the next morning

Rashel skyrunning at the edge of the crater of Mt. Gede

With a view of Mt. Pangrango

Careful now...slippery in this part of the hot-spring waterfalls

Nice waterfall (this is better than the one at Apek Hill, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur) ... :-)

On the same day (5 Nov 2011), yours truly (KC) was initiating the first team meet of 1-LANG Team for Langtang Nepal at Apek Hill, Cheras. Do click here for photos and compare the scenery.

Do click here for itinerary (and minimum fitness requirement) of Langtang Trekking in October 2012. Interested to join the Team? Do contact me (KC).
.

Posted by KC Leong

Terry Fox Run KL 2011

2011-11-13T22:00:00.000+08:00

The participants were delighted hearing the announcement at9:00 a.m. They have been standing or sitting for quite some time eagerlywaiting for some actions. While I walked slowly to the center of Padang Merbuk with the rest, the announcer said, “Many years ago, a Canadian was diagnosedwith leg cancer and eventually has to amputate his right leg. In this fightagainst cancer, he started to run marathons – with only the good leg – to raisefunds for the cancer research in hope of better tomorrow for otherunfortunates. In one of the marathons, before the completion of the run, hecollapsed and died: the cancer has spread to other parts of his body. He wasonly 22 years old then. He is the legendary Terry Fox!”

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC).

Padang Merbuk, Kuala Lumpur on a sunny Sunday morning, 13 Nov 2011 for Terry Fox Run - Kuala Lumpur

Today, his dream lives onwith good support from the public.

According to theannouncement on that sunny Sunday morning, 13 Nov 2011, twelve thousands (12,000) T-shirts are being sold in support of the Terry Fox Run. The funds wouldchannel to the local cancer research centre.

We wish that with theadditional funds (whatever the amount is) and moral support, more cancerpatients would benefit from it.

One runner that I know andthat has contributed much is CK Mak. He actively promoted the sales of TerryFox T-shirts – for awareness and a direct contribution of funds of the project. He made special trips to Bukit Aman car park on Sundaymornings knowing that many of the Pacesetters runners would be there to supportthe event. He even went to other shopping complexes to promote the sales of theT-shirts. Hats off to CK MAK!

A pre-run aerobic exercise performed by cancer patients (who have recovered)

Wendy ... looking in vain for CK Mak for the T-shirt that she has bought. This is no easy task considering that there are thousands of participants.

The ballon arch is the starting/ending point. Since this run is non-competition in nature... all runners just walk pass the starting line in an harmonious manner

Very good turn-outs -- it is just not possible to run with so many participants.

At Persiaran Salahuddin somewhere near Istana Selangor ... a favourite route of Pacesetters Club runners

At the Monument area

Along Jalan Parliament before returning to Padang Merbuk, Kuala Lumpur

Posted by KC Leong

MotoGP Sepang 2011 (3)

2011-11-10T22:30:00.000+08:00

A tragicaccident happened on the actual race day - Sunday, 23 October 2011. Italianmotorcyclist Marco Simoncelli died in a horrific crash at the MotoGP race inSepang F1 Circuit, Malaysia. The 24-year-old was flung from his bike andskidded across the track, before apparently being hit by competitors ColinEdwards and Valentino Rossi.

The racewas stopped on lap two. The spectators were unknown of the tragic accident andkept waiting for almost one hour. Finally, the organizer confirmed the deathand the race was cancelled.

Do click here to view photos inthe final Album 3 by courtesy of Shukri.

Fans of Valentino Rossi #46

Big turn outs

The tragic accident

The fans waited patiently while the impatient ones show their displeasure by ...

Posted by KC Leong

MotoGP Sepang 2011 (2)

2011-11-09T22:36:00.000+08:00

Event: MotoGP
Date: 21 to 23 October 2011
Venue: Sepang F1 Circuit

Do click here to view photos in Album 2 (Saturday) by courtesy of Shukri.

This is master skill in riding motobike ... demo by Ducati

Posted by KC Leong

MotoGP Sepang 2011

2011-11-08T22:30:00.000+08:00

I am pleased to share with you some of the excellent photos taken by Shukri, a photography friend, during the recent MotoGP race at Sepang F1 Circuit, Malaysia from 21 to 23 October 2011.

Do click here to view photos in Album 1 taken on Friday, 21 Oct 2011.

Good weather at Sepang F1 Circuit

Freeze the moment - High speed subject is clear; stationary background is blur.

Awesom machine

During hard breaking, the momentum lifts the back wheel of the motocycle

Riding an iron horse?

Posted by KC Leong

Langtang 2012 - Team Formation

2011-11-06T16:00:00.000+08:00

This trekking trip at Apek Hill on Saturday, 5 November 2011 has a new purpose. It is the first foray into training and selection in the formation of a new team for the Langtang (Nepal) trekking next year - The 1-LANG Team.

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC).

A good start of a long journey – SC Yong, Gean, Pei Ling, Doris, LaiPeng, Audrey, Jasmine, KC Leong at the start of Apek Hill, Cheras (Kuala Lumpur) on 5 November2011.

The last minute change in trekking venue proved to be a wise choice due to the continuous rains the days before. On the morning of trekking, there was still slight drizzles. It would be really tough if we were to stick to the original plan of trekking at Gunung Nuang. Despite the not-so-perfect weather, we still managed to pull through the necessary distance of visiting the waterfall and Saga Hill top and return via Station 6 – almost 4.5 hours round trip.

Gean and group while descending to the waterfall

Other than SC Yong, Rothman and yours truly (KC), all the participants in this Apek Hill trekking are new faces. There are a few more participants but could not make it for this trekking trip. I still need to organize more trekking sessions to get to know the other team members.

Used to trail running in the year-long attempt for the past Mt KK Climbathon 2011, it was such a nice feeling running at this Apek Hill and then waiting for the rest to emerge from the trail.

Ourkeng chow Rothman Fong is flanked by the ladies at the main waterfall of ApekHill

Accordingto Lai Peng (right), they can talk for hours about the trekking and campingexperiences in the various local mountains.

Iquipped that when they go for the trekking in Langtang, they would have 16 daysof marathon conversation on bigger and higher mountains.

Arefreshing pose by the new team ... partly fuel by the good ions from behind?

The 1-LANG Team at the brand new parcourse outdoor fitness equipment

Muddy ground with big footprint left by Kampung Adidas which is excellent for good traction

Do click here for the itinerary of Langtang 2012 16-day trekking.

Posted by KC Leong

Mt Kinabalu Climbathon 2011 (5)

2011-10-31T22:37:00.001+08:00

Another Successful Story ...

Written by SK Ng

Ihave looked forward to meet up with so many Facebook friends & comrades inthis Climbathon event, and it has turned out to be one of the biggest joy andsatisfaction of this event.

Ialso came with some skepticism though. Mt Kinabalu Climbathon – Are you toughenough for The World's Toughest Mountain Race? That's a strong statement tomake, especially to elite runners like Killian Jornet and Marco De Gasperi. Dowe know what we are talking about?

Imean, how can a 21km mountain race be tougher than a 166km Ultra Trail MontBlanc (UTMB; with close to 10,000km elevation gain and 46 hours cutoff), whichKillian won?

Ihave to do this one for myself to find out. And find out I did.

Perhapsthere is no other race in the world that will require you to ascend almoststraight up from 1,800m to a high altitude of 4,095m (a gain of almost 2,300m),and then to descend immediately to about 1500m (a loss elevation of 2,600m).Aside from the continuous strain on same sets of muscles going up and down(this with continuous impact to the knees), the runners have to race againstvery tight cutoffs to reach the peak, and back down to the finish. Of course,there is the added element of high altitude and also lesser oxygen in the air,which could mean Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) for some runners.

SK at the rockface area of Mt Kinabalu

Thosewere the tough parts. In other longer mountain trail races, most ascent for atmost 1,000m, and then follow by descent. The undulating hills allow muscles torecover, thus avoiding fatigue.

Itseems that many of the runners repeat participation annually trying to crackthe race. Apparently first timers like me will be considered as having donewell to complete the race within the cutoff time (3.5hr to reach the peak, 3 hoursto go down to the finish, a total time of 6.5hours for men veteran and women).

Havingjust completed my first 100 miles mountain trail race two weeks ago and BeijingMarathon a week ago, I wasn't sure how much gas I have left in my tank. Will Ibe tough enough? Will I reach Laban Rata at 6km within 2 hours? Will I reachthe peak within 3.5 hours?

Isprinted as far to the front as possible right from the start just so that thetrail will not be too crowded with slower runners. Of course I quickly foundmyself puffing for air as soon as the ascent began. Over these few months, Ihave conditioned myself to be comfortable enough with climbing up hills andmountains. I hardly stopped at all during the ascent, although it becametougher and tougher as we got to the higher altitude.

On cloud nine ...

Ireached the famous Laban Rata in 1h50m, OK. Within what most people haveadvised – to get there within 2 hours. From then on, I was confident of makingthe rest of the 2.6km to the peak within the cutoff. I snapped pictureswhenever I felt the compulsion to do so. This might be the only time I want tobe on this mountain doing this race. There's got to be some thing more thankeeping in my memory which will surely fade away over time.

Pullingrope on rockface to ascend is certainly an interesting experience, and yet atthat altitude of around 4,000m, it was tough. Low's Peak could never seem to benear enough. I reached it in 3:09.11s (about no. 30 at that point), got theofficial to snap two photos of me at the peak, and promptly started my descent.

Wow,running on rock face can be so scarily fast and out of control if you're notcareful. That kilometer run down on rockface was so tough on the quads thatthey were begging for rest and recovery. Of course, the downhill finish is far,far away.

Iknew downhill on my Vibram FiveFingers sports shoes (VFF) would be my weakestlink, and sure enough, and I was passed by many runners through out the wholedownhill run. With my right knee (ligament reconstructed in 2004) stillrelatively weaker and unstable, I favoured my left leg during the descent. Forso long that 4 days after the race, my left quads and calf muscles are stillfeeling sore today. In comparison, I have recovered quite completely 4 daysafter the 100 mile mountain race.

Comingout of Timpohon, a few more runners overtook me on this stretch of 4.5km. Itwas quite demoralizing to have my leg muscles so thrashed that little springpower was left. That last 4.5km of asphalt road seems to be so long and windingthat when the Finish Point came into view, I couldn't quite believe that theend was near.

Yeah! what a feeling of elation!

Allthe sprinting to the finish, jumping with joy in my VFF, group photos withfellow finishers were of course part of the Climbathon story. I completed thedownhill in a low time of 2:36 (although within the 3:00 cutoff for downhill),the whole race in total time of 5:45.11s, a position of 38 out of how manyveteran? (no official statistic, but I think is over 200).

Inanother race in the Skyrunning Series, the Dolomite Skyrace in Italy, thehighest altitude is 3,152m, the terrain varies from earth to gravel (so mucheasier than Climbathon), and distance is 22km. Yet the winning time is 1:50.55sas compared to 2:37.04s the record for this Climbathon.

So,yes, in terms of racing against the clock to reach the peak and back to thefinish within the tight cutoff, in terms of continuous ascent of 2,300m anddescent of 2,600m, I'll admit that this Climbathon is indeed the toughestmountain race in the world. As Killian admitted to the Salomon photographer(Greg) after the race, this win is even tougher than UTMB.

This25^th edition of the Climbathon also marks the end of the race to thepeak of the second highest mountain in South East Asia.With the change in format for the 26^th edition of Mt KK Climbathon2012 where participants will descend at mid-point (Layang Layang Huts 2,702m) toMesilau trail and end at Kundasang town, the foothill of the 4,095m highformidable mountain, we hope that it is a vibrant change that attracts morerunners.

+++++++++++++++++++

Noteby KC:

SKlives in Shanghai at the moment workingas a Group CFO for an American-HongKong private equity fund. Mt KK Climbathonis his 79th marathon/ultramarathon. He has done the world's highest marathon –Everest Marathon in 2006, starting from altitude of over 5,300m.

He is the firstAsian to have run marathons on 7 continents and North Pole. He has runself-supported multi-stage races in Amazon Jungle (222km) in Brazil andMarathon des Sables (250km) in Sahara Desert in Morocco.

The longestsingle stage race that he has done is the 240km Coast to Kosciuszko inAustralia in Dec 2010. He has also run a few 100-mile mountain trail races,completing his first one in Italy in 7-9 Oct 2011.

He is also a barefoot runner, racing in VFF (Vibram FiveFingers sports shoes).

+++++++++++++++++

Do click here for preceding Part 4.

Do click here for lastest and all postings on Mt KK Climbathon 2011.

Posted by KC Leong

Mt Kinabalu Climbathon 2011 (4)

2011-10-29T16:00:00.000+08:00

This is the final album from ChooTS (aka Tuna Bluefin), focus on Men's Open Category of Mt KK Climbathon 2011 that was held on Sunday, 23 Oct 2011.

Do click here for photos (Album 4) courtesy of ChooTS.

Kilian Jornet 2:37.04s - The Champion of the toughest mountain race 2011

Marco Gasperi (+44 sec) - First Runner Up

The top runners of Mt KK Climbathon 2011 - Kilian Jornet (middle), Marco Gasperi (right), Luis Alberto (left)

Yeah! I made it !!

Lots of sweat, training, committment and determination to get the medals

Yeah! When I grow up, I want to be like my daddy man!

Less pounding to the legs ... Kilian trying out the smoother terrain ... :-)

Colourful costume in the folk dances

Graceful and effortless movement

We conclude the Mt KK Climbathon 2011 outings with a stroll at the beach for sunset at Tanjung Aru Beach.

Do click here for previous Part 3.

Do click here for latest and all postings on Mount KK Climbathon 2011.

Posted by KC Leong

Mt Kinabalu Climbathon 2011 (3)

2011-10-27T22:05:00.001+08:00

The journey for the Mount Kinabalu Climbathon 2011 held on 22-23 October continues ...

Do click here for photos by courtesy of ChooTS (a.k.a. BlueFin).

Album 1 ... Album 2 ... Album 3

In photo album, click Slideshow for bigger displays. Stay tuned for more photos ...

Kundasang village where the group from Kuala Lumpur put up two nights here.

The majestic Mount Kinabalu is clearly visible from here

Part of the group members: TeeEK, LeongWW, Patricia Yap, Johar, Dr Shara, Rothman Fong, ChooTS, KC Leong, Weng and ChongYF.

The yow yeng (stylish) runners from Philippine; the vibrant Rashel is 2nd from right.

Journey of countless steps begins

An initial 1km uphill run before reaching the Timpohon Gate

ChooTS - photographer of this photo album

The top lady runner

Another top lady runner

Edwin Goh who made it to the peak within qualifying time

Jason Lee and LimFW double-up as photographer

Congratulation to AB Tan also who made it to the summit

Our photographer, Tey Eng Tiong, busy taking photos after returning from climbathon

Do click here for earlier Part 2 ... click here for latest posting.

Posted by KC Leong

Mt Kinabalu Climbathon 2011 (2)

2011-10-26T17:00:00.000+08:00

Mt KK Climbathon – A Successful Story

Reported by AB Tan:

I am indeed happy to finish the Mt KK Climbathon 2011 racewithin the qualifying time of 3.5 hours for the ascent. I first came to know of this race in 2003 when I did my maiden trekking at Mt Kinabalu; I just wondered how it could be possible to race up in 3.5hours. Then in 2006, I decided to try it at least once in my life. In 2009, I heard that Yee Choi (2009 and 2010Mt KK Climbathon medallist) has made it within 5.5 hours, I realized that it isachievable.

In 2010, we trained together in KC Leong's group. Inone training at FRIM in August, I broke my right ankle bone and badly damagedsurrounding tendons; so I have to postpone the race by one year.

To log in enough 'mileage', after the lastroad run (Sundown ultra-marathon) on 25 June 2011 a few months ago, Iconcentrate to practise steps and climbing. I went to Gunung Nuang for trailtraining every 2 to 3 weeks, and Batu cave for steps training every alternateweek. Finally in Sept 2011, I could manage to reach the summit of G. Nuang in2hr 26min; 20 rounds of Batu Cave in 1hr 45min, and 35 rounds in 3hr 15min. I know I am ready.

The group from Kuala Lumpur posing at the starting line

I reached Kota Kinabalu on Thursday, 20 Oct 2011 tohave more rest. I checked into Celyn Resort (at 2000m, possibly the highest lodges)to further acclimatize with the altitude.

Unfortunately, I contacted flu on Wednesday afternoon.By Thursday, headache, sore throat, joint pain and fever all came. I just keeptaking Panadol every 5 hours from Thursday night to Saturday morning, and keepdrinking water. I felt so tired, sleep almost 10 to 12 hours for those 2 days.

Miraculously, on Saturday morning (the Climbathon raceday), the headache and joint pain are gone. I know I have a chance. I met EdwinGoh, a medallist for 2010 Mt KK Climbathon and he advised me on split timerequired.

Surprisingly, the race seems not so difficult. I stickto the split time:

Laban Rata: 2 hours;

Sayat Sayat: 2 hours 40 mins

Finally, with some hard scrambling in the last 5 minutes,I reached the summit within the cut off time of 3.5 hours, and earned thecoveted "Green Band". I was elated. Standing there for a brief moment of time gave me the top of the world feeling. Satisfied with my achievement, I turned around and race swiftly down fromLow’s Peak.

The orange attire... (L-R) Dr Shara, Rothman Fong, ChooTS, KC Leong, Weng and ChongYF

Descending the mountain was straight forward. I just keptrunning when there were no steps, and brisk walking when there were steps (Ithink there are no less than 10,000 steps). I crossed the finishing line at 6hours 5 mins.

Did I enjoy the experience? Yes, very much indeed.

Is it achievable? Yes, but need a lot of hard work,discipline and commitment.

From my heart, I want to thank the following persons:

1) KC Leong and Tony – for giving all the informationand organizing many training session in the mountains;

2) Yee Choi – as an inspiration and setting target toachieve;

3) Edwin Goh - for the race split time; and mostimportantly, motivation and pacer from 7.8 Km to the summit.

4) Peter Chan – for compiling some “Hill Running” trainingarticles and shared with me last year. I shall share will all later.

Written by AB Tan

The main group from Kuala Lumpur posing for photos after collecting the race entry packs... above photos courtesy of TeyEngTiong. (Tony - R1; KC - L4; CK - R3)

++++++++

From CK Chong:

Thanks to KC Leong and Tony Q, and others whom I havenot met, for the impeccable organization. Race achievement aside, the entireevent will be an indelible moment in my memory. Even nature favoured us withher blue skies and mountain peaks resting on cloud cushions.

++++++++

From Lai Kuan:

Welcome home to All the Mt. KK ClimbathonChallengers!

And CONGRATULATIONS to each and every one of you bravesouls who attempted this world's toughest mountain race! It must be a wonderful experience of alifetime for some. Kudos to the 6participants who qualified in this amazing race!

Such fantastic photography by KC ... that even had myadrenalin rushing just by viewing the photos that I half regretted not joiningthe race too.

++++++++

Blue sky and bright sunshine before 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, 22 October 2011; thereafter, the moutain is engulfed in clouds and mist, and it started drizzling.

From yours truly (KC):

After chatting with OngLP (from Cameron Highlands) whosuccessfully made it to the peak within 3.5 hours qualifying time, I realisedthat there is one important factor which we overlooked and not too focus in ourtrainings.

According to Ong, the journey of going up Mt Kinabalu consistsof countless steps. As such, intensive steps training – though unpleasant,tough and boring – is a mandatory requirement other than the usual trailrunning/training in Gunung Nuang.

When we went for the steps training at Batu Caves onthe final week preceding the event, after six rounds of going up and down theflight of steps, I tried to engage double steps in one upward leap. I realisedthat I could not sustain for much longer duration. That means my legs wouldonly have limited power to propel me up the mountain swiftly. If the doublesteps leap was given sufficient training, more members would have the chance.

On sunburn – Used to wearing vest for the trailtraining in the mountains, I wore the usual Adidas running vest for the Mt KK Climbathon.The next day after the event, I felt pain at both my arms. At first, I thoughtit was the friction or chafing caused by my Deutor hydration backpack; but Ihave been using it for more than 6 months. A closer look into the mirror, to myhorror, the two arms and top shoulders that are exposed to the sun (at therock-based area of Mt KK) are red. The effect of UV and strong ray at 4,000meters nearer to the sun is just amazing. Lesson learn: must wear T-shirt andnot running vest; unless we can run as fast as the top runners to reduce theexposure time to hot sun ... :-)

Do click here for Part 1 of Mt Kinabalu Climbathon 2011.

Do click here for latest posting on Mt Kinabalu Climbathon 2011.

Cheers! KC

Mt Kinabalu Climbathon 2011

2011-10-24T22:00:00.000+08:00

Theworld's toughest mountain race - the 25th Mount Kinabalu Climbathon – endedwith much heightened spirit, excitement and fond memories. We were glad to bethere participating in the same event.

Therace was keenly contested between Kilian Jornet of Italy who is a 3-timechampion of the Skyrunner World Series from 2007-2009 and Marco de Gasperi, thechampion of Mount Kinabalue Climbathon in 2003 and 2010.

Do click here toview photos taken by yours truly (KC). In Picasa WebPhoto Album, click Slideshow for bigger displays.

The message is clear ...

With a group of 40 plus runners from Kuala Lumpur jointly organize by Tony and yours truly (KC), this time; we have six members (inclusive of one lady) who successfully reached the summit (within 3.5 hours) and crossed the finishing line within qualifying time of 6.5 hours.

Even Kilian, during the interview, attest that it is indeed the world's toughest mountain race with the unique one way up and down within a race.

Test of endurance and determination - Seen from yourstruly (KC’s) eyes on the way up the mountain.

Yourstruly (KC) posing before Sayat Sayat, the gateway to the peak.

Alady runner running down the mountain after returning from Low’s Peak, thesummit.

Not good enough ... with all the training that I put in ... click here, I could only go thus far at 7.5km mark, still fall short of another 1.3 km to the peak within the 3.5 hours of qualifying time for ascent.

WilsonLiew and Patricia Yap at the rope area with many runners returning from peak.

Thenext day (Sunday, 23 October 2011) supporting the Men’s Open category

The Champion - Spain's Kilian Jornet won the 25th MountKinabalu International Climbathon, dethroning last year's winner, Marco DeGasperi of Italy. Kilian clocked 2:37.04s ahead of Marco de Gasperi who camein second who is only 44 seconds slower.

Kilian's countryman, Luis Alberto Hernando came in third,who is 5 min 32 seconds slower.

Dr Shara and Wendy Liu posing with Marco de Gasperi, the 1st Runner Up. Notice that he wear the same green running vest and short as last year... do click here. Though he is only 44 seconds slower than Kilian, Marco de Gasperi was the first to reach the summit in 1:37.49s, earning him a gold medal, but he slipped and fell half way when descending the mountain (according to the news report).

Thelegs of a champion with the rugged veins that power one up and down the tough,uneven and tricky terrain

Yourstruly (KC) posing with the Champion of 25^th Mt KinabaluClimbathon - Kilian Jornet of Spain

Allsmiles for a different reason ... For Men’s Open category, the cut-off time isonly 2.5 hours (1 hour shorter compared to Men’s Veteran and Women’scategories).

Forthose who have not ventured deeper or higher into the mountain, they would takemuch earlier time to return and cross the finishing line.

Yeah,give me a HI FIVE ... a group of lady climbers from Philippine cheering therunners about 200 meters before crossing the finishing line.

Alex AngMoe of Penang (a 7-time Ironman; in yellow) posing with a group of Philippine climbers; Rashel is second from right.

Yeah,my proud daddy did it !!!

Theaward presentation and buffet lunch for officially closing the event. While theparticipants dine, we were treat with the local dances.

Thiswould be the last year where the mission is to run up to the peak.

Startingnext year – the 26^th Mt Kinabalu Climbathon 2012 - a runner would ascend to mid-point at Layang Layang (2,702m) and then descend themountain by returning via Mecilau and end at a Kundasanvillage.

Do click here for Part 2 and latest postings of Mount Kinabalu Climbathon 2010.

.
Posted by KC Leong

Mt KK Climbathon 2011 – Here we Come

2011-10-18T21:16:00.003+08:00

In two days' time, we shall be heading to the formidablemountain – Mount Kinabalu – for the Mount Kinabalu Climbathon 22-23 October2011.

We have been training very hard in the local hills/mountainin Kuala Lumpur and the mother-of-all local Climbathon event is finally here.It is going to be the 25th climbathon and the last race to Low's Peak. Asinformed, starting next year, it would be more of a trail running event (detourmid-way at Layang-Layang to Mecilau) rather than an extreme challenge.
.

Yes, we shall charge up the mountain kow kow on event day asthis would be the last chance we head to the peak ... :-)

If you watch the movie, Real Steel, COURAGE is stronger thansteel for the showdown ... Yeah, we need peak courage for this challenge toreach the summit ... :-)

The King of Mountains – Marco De Gasperi, the champion(Men’s Open 2010) from Italy only takes 2 hours 33 minutes to return (fromrunning to the peak). One way to the peak is only 01:35:29. Amazing feat !

This is the most satisfying photo taken by yours truly (KC).When Marco extends his arms while crossing the finishing line, it is as thoughhe is carrying the Malaysian flag beneath his arm. (photographic equipmentcourtesy of SCHOnline)

Let me share with you a light-hearted conversation leadingto Mt KK Climbathon 2011:

Challenger A: I am wondering how to bring my Red Bull energydrink along since I only bring hand-carry luggage in the flight to KotaKinabalu. Hope they sell there.

Challenger B: Have you fined-tune the lead time for theenergy drink to take effect? Sound like a good idea to take this drink andcharge up the mountain like a bull ... ha ha

Challenger C: Local strategy ... consume bananas every dayuntil this Friday (eve of the Climbathon) and drink plenty of water…. Hmmm, nocramps some more.

Challenger A: 45 minutes of lead time for the drink toturbo-charge your engine.

Challenger B: Okay, the banana and Red Bull drink sound likea potent formula. Not only we charge up the mountain, we can also swing fromtrees to trees (like monkey) to gain time, if necessary ... :-)

++++++++++

As for Alex, he has a unique trade secret for the extraboast of energy ... For those who like to drink, Mount Kinabalu is going to becold so you need extra CALORIES. From now on drink Guinness Stout one bottle or3 pegs of DOM every night that will give you extra energy and calories.

++++++++++

Do click here to read/view photos of Mt KK Climbathon 2011 happening on 22-23 October.

See you at the starting line

Try Our Best

Posted by KC Leong

Final training at Batu Caves

2011-10-16T21:00:00.000+08:00

The steps training at Batu caves on Saturday, 15 October 2011 mark the final training before we take on the Mount Kinabalu Climbathon challenge on 22 October 2011.

It was a last minute change of venue from Gunung Nuang as this is supposed to be a safe and easy training (since we have come thus far in training).

A few of the other participants are doing their trainings at Apek Hill and Gunung Nuang also.

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC). Three photos in the album are by courtesy of Mak CK.

Thechallenging 252 steps of Batu Caves. Try going up in quick succession, you willexperience how tough it is ... :-)

L-R:Mak CK, Tee EK, ChongYF, KC Leong, Patricia Yap and Eileen Gan.

Amazingpower – 500c.c. x 24 bottles x 3 boxes = 12kg x 3 = 36 kg !!

Ihelped to carry another box and I have to take a breather at mid-point.

Agroup of Chinese nationals from Shanghai are visiting Batu Caves. This guy isnot very fit. Not used to the steep gradient, he almost fainted that gives usthe scare.

Wetried to offer our help much to the appreciation of his lady group members whosaid that we are very helpful and kind.

MakCKis trying to keep him awake by engaging in conversation with him.

Welater accompany him to go down the steps for fearing that he would trip andfall.

L-R: Mak CK, Micki and friend and KC Leong

Micki’sMicrosoft Extreme Challenge versus MakCK’s Terry Fox Run. Mak is assisting inpromoting the run that will be held at Padang Merbok on 13 Nov 2011.

TerryFox Run T-Shirt for charity is RM30 each. Get one today from MakCK to raisemoney for cancer research !!

Veryyow yeng pose ... Patricia Yap, Eileen Gan and Micki

Flexing the muscle ... Steven and his loved one

Auspiciousentrance ... L-R: ChongYF, Patricia, KC Leong, TeeEK, Steven Onn and his lovedones, Eileen Gan.

PatriciaYap showing the Terry Fox Run T-shirt that she is supporting ... this photocourtesy of Mak CK.

Templein Batu Caves

Weadjourn for breakfast at the Indian stalls within the compound of Batu Caves... Patricia holding the nicely done wafer thin pancakes (Dosai) that is in theshape of a hat.

Posted by KC Leong

G.Nuang Trail Training

2011-10-09T21:30:00.000+08:00

After months of trail training, the day for the MountKinabalu Climbathon challenge on 22 October 2011 is almost here. With two moreweekends to go, part of the group members went for the trail training at GunungNuang on Saturday, 8 Oct 2011.

The final training at Gunung Nuang will this comingSaturday, 15 October 2011.

Click here to view photo taken by yours truly (KC) ... click Slideshow for bigger displays.

Tough guys at Gunung Nuang - (L-R): Chong YF, Leong WW & 2 friends, Rothman Fong,ChooTS, Sivalingam, Mak CK, Chiew Hong, Dr Shara, KC Leong

Various type of trail running shoes. Okay, I notice that half of the guys are with hairy legs. Are you able to guess which is yours truly's shoes?

Before the stream crossing - Dr Shara, ChooTS, MakCK,Chong YF and KC Leong

At the signature tree of Kem Pacat ... Dr Shara, Mak CK,ChooTS, Rothman Fong, Chiew Hong, KC Leong with ChongYF high above

Many campers are seen camping at Camp Lolo also

Stream crossing made easier -- MakCK looking at the kidsplaying in the water ...

Some kind-hearted people even tight a good quality ropeacross the stream to facilitate safe crossing of stream. Seen here are twomodels demonstrating the usefulness of the rope when confront with slipperylanding ... :-)

Adjourn for lunch; this time, we went to a different restaurantlocated between Hulu Langat Batu 14 and the Ampang Lookup Point.

As recommended by the waiter, we ordered grilled tilapia fish and pandan chicken

The tilapia fishes are caught and then cook and serve...

Preparing the grilled lamb

Posted by KC Leong

Impression of China (2)

2011-10-02T22:05:00.000+08:00

The journey continues ... do click here to view photos in 2nd album by courtesy of yours truly (KC).

Ourcruise ship spent a night lay at anchor in this area.

Thatreminded me of my Mount Rinjani trekking trip (Lombok Island; June 2011) wherewe just pitch the tents and camped out-of-no-where in the wilderness ... click here.

Takinga boat ride in the Shen Nong Xi (or river). Powered by 4 boatmen, they cancarry almost 15 persons.

Toearn a daily wage of 3 Yuans, they have to came from far in the same boat foralmost 2 hours (one way).

Trackersof Shen Nong Xi (or river) pulling the boat

Thisis the commercial shot extracted from Internet; it always look much bettercompare to real life ... :-)

Withthe construction of the dam across Yangtze River, the water level risessubstantially.

Allthe peripheral streams/rivers are now swell with water; so the trackers don’thave to pull their boats in the shallow water anymore.

Whenwe took the boat ride, they just demonstrated to us how the boat was pulled(photo above) – minus the action in nude ... :-)

Linda,the guide of our Shen Nong River cruise, introducing the history and culture ofthe tribes here. She lives in the nearby village.

Accompanyingthe sales of the book, she also sings one of the songs in the audio CD that isbeing promoted.

Thejourney on the Yangtze River continues with the spectacular and uniquelandscape ...

Onthis afternoon, we have 2 hours or less of sunshine. It was cloudy on most ofthe days on or before boarding the cruise ship.

Manyof the towns are established along the river.

Theprimary image on the reverse side of the new 10 Yuan note is a view of thefamous breathtaking Three Gorges of the Yangzi River.

Thehorizontal line at the gorge is the upper limit of water level marked by heavyrainfall.

Debrisis seen floating on the river after massive flooding at upstream due to badweather.

Thesame bad weather was experienced at Zhangjiajie when we went up the mountainsand could not see any view.

Buffetmeals offered in the cruise ship. Every time we started our meal, whetherbreakfast, lunch or dinner, the cruise ship would start to move.

So,what is your deduction?

FarewellBanquet Dinner hosted by the Captain on the final evening before we arrive atthe destination - ChongQing city

Westarted the journey from Yi Chang; passing by Three Gorges Dam and disembarkedat ChongQing.

Thestaff or workers in the cruise ship double-up as armature performers toentertain the passengers.

Arrivingat ChongQing city with a population of 33 million people (even more than thewhole of Malaysia)

Breakfastat the 39^th floor of The Landmark International Hotel, Guangzhou.

Sightseeingat Guangzhou new commercial square. The tallest building here is the GuangzhouBusiness Convention Centre.

Yourstruly (KC) with Guangzhou’s telecom transmission tower in the background.

Thisis an elegantly designed car made in China that can rival those cars fromJapan.

Freeand easy shopping at Shang Xia Jiu Square (direct translation: Up Down NineSquare) where the whole street of almost 1km long are lined with shops; lots ofshoppers here.

Enchantingnight view of Pearl River (or Zhu Jiang). The Landmark International Hotel ison the far left.

Posted by KC Leong

Impression of China (1)

2011-09-28T23:00:00.000+08:00

Impression of China – 11 days tour (from 15 September 2011) of Feng Huang Ancient Town, Zhangjiajie, Yangtze Cruise, and a brief tour of ChongQing and Guangzhou cities.

Please click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC) ... In Picasa photo album, click Slideshow for bigger displays and captions.

Touch-downat Guangzhou International Airport ... upon arrival, take high speed train toChangsha. After the freak accident happened a few weeks ago, the speed isreduced from 400 km/h to 300+

Forthe entire journey of 2.5 hours, the speed is set to 310km/h maximum for acomfortable, steady, vibration-free and silent ride. We alighted from the trainat almost 12 mid-night; when we retired to bed in hotel, it was almost 2:00a.m. the next day.

Thefamous Phoenix Ancient Town (or Feng Huang Ancient Town) of history and culturewith the unique local architecture.

Walkingon the wooden slabs requires confidence and stability; however, it requires abit of manoeuvring when confront with people from the opposite directionwithout dropping into the water.

Asenior is seen here collecting litter on the river.

Nina– our friendly, dedicated and untiring tour guide at Zhangjiajie. Graduatedfrom a local university and speaking fluent American English, she belongs tothe Tu Minority people in Zhangjiajie – one of the minority tribes in China.

This is how we should carry our backpack to avoid pickpockets.

According to her, she is practising the 'cry wedding' – a custom of her Tu minority people where a new bride is to cry for one month preceding the wedding ceremony. The cry is a reflection of a girl's ability and virtue; the better the cry, the girl would gain more sympathy from the relatives and would then get more ‘ang pow’ (reward) money.

Seeingdouble – enchanting night view of Phoenix Ancient Town

Thefamous UNESCO World Heritage of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

Inthe National Park, 3,000 skyscraper-like stone pillars stand in various shapesare arranged in vertical-cutting appearance.

Theunique and majestic mountains in the background are where the floatingmountains in the blockbuster movie, Avatar, got the ideas from.

Yourstruly (KC) in the photo.

Thetour group of 20 from Malaysia.

Comfortableand luxurious hotel stay

Goodfood for every meal including two bottles of beer and a bottle of soft drink.

Takinga mini train into the inner part of the park for better view of the mountains...

yours truly (kC).

Closeview – taking cable cars up the mountain. Unfortunately, it was bad weather forthe past few days and the whole mountains are covered with mist or cloud.

Athigher ground, visibility is bad and could not see anything. The group thendescend the mountain queuing for almost one hour for the cable cars to returnto base.

Lookslike I need to re-visit this heavenly mountains another time.

Enjoyingthe performance at night for a grand feat of sight and sound at Zangjiajie

Theatrehall with high-tech equipment in an ancient setting

Startof the Yangtze River 5-star cruise from Yichang town.

Wemet a group of French tourists, almost 50 of them and the biggest group; followby the Malaysian group, about 30.

Afew of them join us in light exercise and a bit of fun on the top deck.

Theship is ferrying 150 passengers – maximum capacity.

TheThree Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River. This project benefits in flood control,power generation, navigation improvement and promote tourism.

Thespillway dam, located in the middle of the river course, connects the twopowerhouses at both sides.

Withthe completion of the dam, the water level at the upper river risessubstantially; while the water level at downstream is now much lower ...

Hence,the large-scale shiplock for ships to travel from lower to higher ground, andvice versa.

Currently,the China Government is building the large-scale shiplift, a one-step verticalmovement elevator for smaller boats that would take only 45 minutes to clear(compare to 4 hours of the shiplock); target to complete by 2015.

Precisionhandling – notice the two cruise ships are parked touching one another whenentering the chambers of the shiplocks.

Cheers!Welcome dinner from the Captain. Onhis right is the English/Mandarin speaking guide; on his left is theFrench/Mandarin speaking guide.

Entertainmentin the cruise ship while waiting to clear the five shiplocks that require atotal of 4 hours.

Tobe continued ...

FromKC Leong

A Wet Challenge at Gunung Nuang

2011-09-11T22:30:00.000+08:00

Note: I shall be away from 15 to 26 September for holidays in China.
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The presence of haze recently means there isn’t enough rain to clear the excessive dust particles in the air created by man. With the dry weather, it is good for outdoor activity; but for avoidance of the haze, authorities advise people to stay indoors. So we have quite a contradictory situation. According to the report in the Star newspaper, the rain will only come next week. I was pleased. That means the trail running at Gunung Nuang on Saturday, 10 Sep 2011 should be a dry day.

While driving to Gunung Nuang at 6:00 a.m. on the event day, there was a slight drizzle. Unfazed by the rain, I continued the journey. The report in the Star newspaper boasted my confidence as high as Gunung Nuang. About 5km before arriving at G.Nuang, the whole area was dry. I was pleased to hear over the airwave at that moment at 6:30 a.m. the song sung by Jimmy Cliff: "I could see clearly now that the rain is gone ... It is gonna be a bright, bright sunshiny day ... “ Yeah, I believe so.

Tony Q sent sms informing that Siew Lee’s group from Singapore would be slightly delayed and informed us to start first. After the group photo, we proceeded at 7:25 a.m. at trail head. Edwin, Rothman, AB Tan and Tan Han Bin was in the leading group; I was with Sivalingam; Mark BG, Karen and Chiew Hong formed the trailing sub-group.

Do click here to view photos courtesy of Chiew Hong (using waterproof Sony compact) and yours truly (KC).

L-R: KC Leong, Edwin Goh, Rothman, Sivalingam, Mark BG, Karen, AB Tan, Tan Han Bin, Chiew Hong

Just 10 minutes after that and, lo and behold, it started to drizzle! The report in the Star newspaper must have given me lots of confidence. I would think that the rain should stop very quickly. So we pressed on.

We passed Kem Lolo and Kem Pacat – in the rain. The mountain was engulfed with mist or rain clouds. Visibility was quite dark something like 7:00 a.m. though it was already 9:30 a.m. It was lucky that the ladies did not join us in this extra tough challenge. Gauging at the weather, I did not think that the rain would stop quickly.

When I arrived at False Peak at 10:00 a.m. (2.5 hours later), it was still drizzling. So I decided to descend the mountain while Siva proceed to the peak.

I then met Mark BG, Karen and Chiew Hong at Kem Pacat. Chiew Hong even pitched up a flysheet to shield the rain while waiting for the rest. At that moment, the rain gathered momentum. So the initial thought of MarkBG to continue was partly dampened by the rain. All decided to descend the mountain.

By the signature tree at Kem Pacat ... Chiew Hong, Karen and Mark BG.

Yours truly at Kem Pacat... despite the rain, it is still thumbs-up pose ... ha ha

On the way down, not far from Kem Pacat, we met Siew Lee and her group of friends who were on their way up. So we exchanged pleasantry and chatted for a while, and taking group photos in the rain. I joked that the presence of VIP brought rain to Kuala Lumpur (rain in Cantonese means money), which is very much needed here!

Rothman – he is just amazing. Despite the wet and slippery ground, he just ran down the mountain just like normal dry day; occasionally, he was seen jumping high in the air followed by precision landing. Respect! Respect! Within seconds, we lost sight of him.

Along the way descending the mountain, I slipped and fell due to the slippery ground. We returned to Kem Lolo at around 11:30 a.m., only by then the rain stopped.

On the whole, it was quite an experience soaking in the rain for almost four hours in the mountains to continue the journey. Nevertheless, it was a good training – to train in wet condition.

We met part of Siew Lee’s (3rd from left) group from Singapore, lead by Tony Q (left) for a wet journey to the peak of Gunung Nuang.

Other than the first group photo, all photos were taken in the rain.

Note: I shall be away from 15 to 26 September for holidays in China (Fenghuang, Zhang jia jie, Three Gorges, Guangzhou)

Posted by KC Leong

Bukit Kiara @ TTDI Trail Running

2011-09-06T23:00:00.000+08:00

This is the first time that I do a trail running at Bukit Kiara @ TTDI on Thursday, 1 September (which is a national holiday). For a change, the organizer is Aleximon Lee – a youthful looking, friendly, humble and jovial guy.

Arriving at the destination before 7:00 a.m. as suggested by Aleximon Lee at Taman Rimba Kiara (next to Plaza IBM, now Plaza VADS in Taman Tun Dr Ismail), there wasn't a single soul there. While standing right at the entrance frantically calling for help, Jeff Ooi spotted me and directed me to the correct venue which is about 1km away along Jalan Abang Haji Openg, opposite Sekolah Kebangsaan Taman Tun Dr Ismail 2.

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC). Click Slideshow and F11 for bigger displays.

Back (L-R): Wendy Liu, Patricia Yap, Jeff Ooi, Vance, Chin, Aleximon Lee, Paul Lee, Yim Heng Fatt

Front: KC Leong, Karim, Dannie, Carrie, Karen Loh ... this photo courtesy of Yim Heng Fatt.

Bukit Kiara @ TTDI has often been described as the 'green lung' of Kuala Lumpur, boasting many jungle trails through its characteristic hills. Despite rapid housing and commercial development in the areas, the hills still stood there though the lush greenery may be diminishing in size in compromising for development. Hopefully, in many years to come, the trails are still there for trail running.

Seeing that most of us are keng chow trail runners (maybe the look... ha ha), after a brief discussion between Paul Lee and Karen Loh (two experience trail runners), we decided to do a long-distant loop which is about 7.5km one way.

At View Point area: Karim, Yim, Karen Loh, Vance and KC Leong

There are many split trails to arrive at the destination. The whole team was sub-divided into 4 groups each led by Aleximon Lee, Jeff Ooi, Paul Lee and Karen Loh. Nevertheless, we managed to assemble at the destination.

Assessment of the terrain: there are about 5 to 10 hills to tackle. The trail is long but not too steep – a little harder than Puchong Hill. Apek-Saga Hills is much steeper and gain elevation very quickly.

In single file going uphill ...

Finally, the full team arriving at the Orang Asli settlement

This is the way we came from ... Being trail running here twice, Karen Loh is good in recognizing the trail.

The View Point Area -- The KL Tower and Petronas Twin Buildings at the background can be seen here (near to Patricia Yap's right hand).

Karen trip and fell, damaging the yow yeng and expansive CWX compression pants at the knee area. On the brigther side - she is okay and safe.

One runner friend commented that we look so fresh even after a 15km trail run. So I quipped that the air in the hill is fresh, thus making us looking fresh. Running in the mountain inhaling lots of fresh air (and negative ions) has rejuvenating effect on us ... this photo courtesy of Dannie captured using his iPhone.

This is Taman Tasik Lembah Kiara which is directly opposite Sekolah Kebangsaan Taman Tun Dr. Ismail (2). Another park is 1km away is called Taman Lembah Kiara.

The group went to Devi's Corner, a mamak restaurant in TTDI for brunch ... Carrie and Wendy Liu.

Aleximon Lee (left), the organizer of this trail running, is a youth looking, friendly, humble and jovial guy; assisted by Jeff Ooi (right). The other two important persons are Paul Lee and Karen Loh who guide the team in the right path in the many split trails.

Posted by KC Leong

Puchong Hill Trail Running

2011-09-04T07:01:00.000+08:00

The group – quite a big group this time – went for trail running at Puchong Hill (or Air Hitam Forest Reserve) on Tuesday, 30 August, the first day of Raya holiday. Other than the regulars, the new friends are Chin, Vance, SC's son, Gandhi, Lohita, Kirandeep, Wuan, Bernard Lee, and Siaw Cheng.

This time, all were running. From a distance, it is just like a line of runners meandering through the trail around the hill.

To add fun to the event, Lady Su came with two of her newly acquired pet doggies. In outdoor activities, the doggies are like children that require constant supervision to avoid straying away due to their inquisitive mind.

While taking a breather, I could hear a few runners were breathing extra hard; not that they were panting for breath, I would think that they were trying to breathe in more fresh air and the good negative ions.
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Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC).

Back (L-R): ChongYF, SC's son, Vance, Chin, SC Yong, Kirandeep, KC Leong

Middle: Mak, TeeEK, Bernard, Wuan, Lohita, Gandhi,

Front: Wendy Liu, Tee's wife, Lady Su, Lai Kuan, Siaw Cheng, Patricia Yap.

Very busy exchanging ideas about doggies ... Patricia Yap, Lady Su and Lai Kuan. That black and white dog likes Patricia (sniffing and social connection in progress)... :-)

Lady Su’s doggies are named Dolly and Parton. Every time we call ‘Dolly Parton’ loudly, I could see other trekkers start looking around to see whether the one from the USA is here trekking in Kuala Lumpur ... :-)

Just like human beings that exhibit different characteristic, the yellow dog is more intelligent and not afraid of water, but not the black one.

Taking a breather

In most hills, the peak is just a barren ground that we hope to be able to see the sky.

In this track, the icing on the cake is that it is a waterfall and a pool with clear water.

The pristine pool

Part of the group went for Dim Sum for brunch. All Dim Sum restaurants in this Puchong Commercial Centre are packed with people. The ‘lau sar pau’ (pau with butter and yellow milk custard filling) taste fantastic!

Posted by KC Leong

Langtang Trekking (Nepal) 2012 - Invitation

2011-08-30T22:35:00.003+08:00

I am forming a team to go trekking in Nepal 2012 next year.

After much discussion with Mr Cheban, the trekking agent in Nepal, I have decided to trek at Langtang (5,000m).

Plan date: 13 to 28 October 2012

Duration: 16 days (with 13 days of trekking to explore the valleys, lakes, magnificent views of the ice-capped Himalayan mountains)

If you are interested, do indicate/contact me at:

kcsr22@gmail.com
.

Minimum Fitness and Altitude Requirements:

1. You have trekked up to 4,000 meters or higher (eg. Mount Kinabalu)

2. Good fitness level and active (that you like trekking or running)

3. You must be able to attend a minimum of three group trainings (by 31 Dec 2011) for selection process into the team

4. Age limit applies

Ballpark or estimates of trekking fees: less than USD 1,000 (included hotels, lodges, guides, porters, meals, transport). To determine more accurate fees next year.

The other good season to trek in Nepal is in spring (mid-March to mid-April); alternatively, if you could only go in spring, form another group and go in spring of 2012.

Do click here for a glimpse of the captivating scenery of Langtang (by other trekkers):

Album 1 ... Album 2 ... Album 3 ... Album 4

Note: for the 16-day trekking, you only need to apply 9 working days' leaves (26 Oct 2012 is a holiday)

Langtang Itinerary

Day 01 : Arrive Kathmandu (1350m.) Over-night O/N hotel (D) Arrive Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel, final prepration of the trekking Welcome Dinner.

Day 02 : Drive – Dunche (1960m.) – Syabrubesi (8 hrs.) (1460m.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 03 : Syabrubensi – Lama Hotel (5 hrs.) (2470m.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 04 : Lama Hotel -Langtang Valley (5.30 hrs.) (3430m.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 05 : Langtang valley to Kyanjing Gompa (4 hrs.) (3870m.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 06 : Explore Langshisa Kharka and O/N Kyanjing Gompa (7 hrs.) (4080m.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 07 : Visit Tserko Ri (4984m.) & Kyanjin Ri (4773m.), O/N Kyanjing Gompa (7 hrs.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 08 : Kyanjing Gompa trek back to Lama hotel (7 hrs.) (2470m.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 09 : Lama hotel to Sing Gompa (8 hrs.) (3330 m.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 10 : Sing Gompa - Gosainkunda (5 hrs.) (4380 m.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 11 : Gosainkund - Thare Pati (7 hrs.) (3690m.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 12 : Thare Pati - Gul Bhanyjang (6 hrs.) (2130m.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 13 : Gul Bhanjyanj - Chisopani (4.30 hrs.) (2194m.) O/N lodge (B L D)

Day 14 : Chisapani – Kathmandu (5 hrs.) (1350m.) O/N hotel (B L D)

Day 15 : Kathmandu free and O/N hotel (B D) Free day in Kathmandu. Farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 16 : Kathmandu-Airport-Transfer

Do view photos and stories of my previous group trekking trip to Mount Everest Base Camp (5,500 m) in 2009 ... click here.

If you would like to contact Cheban to enquire other trekking trips, he can be contacted at: manaslutrek@wlink.com.np

or click at icon leading to his website (at top right of this blogsite).

Note: photos of Langtang shown here are extracted from internet; thanks to the original photographers.

Posted by KC Leong

Apek-Saga Hills Trail Running

2011-08-28T22:39:00.001+08:00

We did quite a long distance of trail running at Apek-Saga Hill on Saturday, 27 August 2011. That morning, the ground was damp after the previous day's rain, but the air was very fresh in the hill – excellent!

Unlike Gunung Nuang that has a gradual slope for warming up, the terrain here is going steep uphill first follows by flat plateau at the top. As usual, we went up via the Latuk (Dato') Trail. At Station 5, we met Jason Lee and Kelly Hoh' big group of trekkers who were going to Saga Hill Rest Area to celebrate birthday for Elaine. Due to the wet ground, we did not descend to the waterfall area.

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC).

Back (left): KC Leong, ChongYF, SC Yong, Leong WW, TeeEK, Edwin Goh

Front: Kristy Chew, Elaine, Linda Liu, Foong Yee, Lai Kuan, Patricia Yap.

At Saga Hill, we continued the trail running by proceeding to the metal Pyramid area; then run down Saga Hill. Almost at the base, we went up to Saga Hill Rest Area again. That was tough!

After all the fun of mingling with Kelly Hoh’s trekker friends, eating birthday cake, participating in the hoola hoop demo, etc, we returned to Apek Hill via a different path. At mid-hill, we met Germaine and her group who were trekking up and going to the waterfall area. During the brief exchange of pleasantry, I was worried when I heard, “Eileen was lost ...” It turned out that Eileen lost her direction and could not arrive at the trail head of Apek Hill on time despite much of her effort wanting to trek there ... :-)

The birthday girl – Elaine (in yellow T-shirt) ... the cake was carried all the way from base by Kelly Hoh’s group of trekkers

Back: Foong Yee, Patricia yap, TeeEK; Front: Jayne Aw, Kristy Chew, Elaine, Kelly Hoh, KC ... this photo courtesy of Kelly Hoh.

As you can see, there were quite a hype of activities there on that morning.

The most satisfying moment was when we arrived at Station 6; seeing us running out of the trail, the other lady trekkers there were saying that these people were very Keng Chow.

Elaine

Poetry in motion – Hoola hoop in a string of heavy, giant beads. Foong Yee in action much to the admiration of the other guys.

We met Germaine (3^rd from left) and her group at mid-hill.

This is the uncle who sings in Apek Hill with a powerful voice that vibrate with resonance ... flank by two pretty fans ... :-)

Still with lots of energy after the trail running session ... Foong Yee, Lai Kuan and Patricia Yap.

Posted by KC Leong

Running Tights and Compression Pants

2011-08-23T23:22:00.000+08:00

"Not tight enough," the Malay lady shop assistant said, "you need size XS (extra small) for this compression shorts." I was testing a size M (medium) 2XU compression shorts; it was quite a mental and cultural shock for me to be advised to down-size three sizes smaller. All these while, I am wearing the loose running shorts of size L (large).

On Saturday 20 August 2011, I was supposed to take Cheban, the Nepal trekking agent for shopping. He wanted to buy a watch and a camcorder to take home. While passing by Federal Highway, I detour to The Gardens, Mid-valley to buy running tights and compression shorts – the in-thing for runners these days.

I went to Adidas, Nike, Mizuno, New Balance, 2XU, and Salomon shops to look around. What amazes me is the 2XU shop. Their normal tights are selling at RM 200! The compression shorts are selling at RM 300. For the long pants, it is RM 500 or higher – even more expansive than a high-end running shoes! Interesting observation: the shorts are labelled “Made in China”. So before I made a graceful exit, I asked the shop assistant what is the meaning of '2XU'. Since she could not answer, I quipped, "To Compress You" which is exactly the main concept of the compression shorts.

Salomon tights is slightly longer, material is slightly thicker compare to Mizuno that has a distinctive blue strip that enhance the look.

With the XS size, everything is solidly compressed or squeezed including the butts and the 'brudder' ... :-) After years of running, I would have burn away much fat at the bottom; compress some more, nothing is left to see ... :-) Of course, the challenge to the manufacturer/inventor is to compress those that require compression; those not supposed are to be exempted - that would be another technological breakthrough ... :-)

Finally, a logical change from the loose running shorts would be the normal running tights for me. I bought one each from Mizuno and Salomon.

Yours truly (KC)

Comments by Mak:

Welcome to the Compression club. You will love it and some other will love after you wear it ... he he [I am not sure the word 'you' is inadvertently left out after the word 'love' since Mak replied via BlackBerry ... :-) ]. According to unconfirmed sources, he wrote that the compression effect may not be good for young men as it may impede the ability to produce.

Written by KC Leong

Puchong Hill Trail Running

2011-08-21T21:56:00.000+08:00

(Left): Lai Kuan, Adeline Lee, MakCK, Raymond Ng, Mark BG, KC Leong

Do click here to view photos taken by yours truly (KC) and Yong Hong Chye

Take a break ... have a photo session. (This photo courtesy of Yong Hong Chye).

At the Puchong Hill pristine waterfall

Crystal clear water ... Adeline Lee is refreshing herself while Lai Kuan and Mark BG look on

Yours truly, Mak CK, Mark BG and Lai Kuan

Posted by KC Leong

Batu Caves Steps Training

2011-08-14T21:17:00.003+08:00

The steps training at Batu Caves on Saturday morning, 13 August 2011 was staged as planned, minus the presence of yours truly (KC) ... :-)

Here are the photos by courtesy of ChooTS. After a downpour the evening before, all outdoor activities on the following morning would be nice and cool, and the air would be fresh.

Patricia – posing cheerfully for the camera

The devotees and the sportsmen

Front: Patricia and Annie Lim
ChooTS, LeongWW, TeeEK, ChongYF, Moey and Lim.

The monkeys here are busy too – looking for food.

Do click here for previous postings at Batu Caves ... scroll down the web pages.

On Friday (12 Aug), my lunch kaki and I went to an Indian restaurant near Putrajaya to eat Indian food for lunch. Three hours after that, I felt cold and shivering in the office, never before I felt that cold. Then the slight fever came at night. I sent out notification informing the rest that I could not go for the steps training. Then I have the diarrhea on Saturday - I think I have mild food-poisoning. If you refer to page 37 in today’s Sunday Star about Typhoid Fever, a few of the symptoms do sound similiar, though on a lesser scale.

On a lighter note, if that lunch did not take place, then there should have another photo here savouring the Indian specialties at the eatery centres within the compound of Batu Caves.
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posted by KC Leong