It has been months since we came back from Bali with those paintings and finally, 2 weeks ago, we send it for framing, which ultimately cost more than the painting itselfs. Well, the highlight was of course the 2 big 7 footer by 3 footer painting we bought.
Our empty living room wall, barren for months used to look like this
But now, with this painting
It now looked like this
The living room now looked so much smaller...LOL... :)
it is hard to find nice Buddha painting. I won't classify this as Buddha's Head as well, as it looked rahter feminine. It looked more like some eleborate Balinese babe actually, or so we think.
Next of course, is the painting in the bedroom.
Wifey love this painting, it's chaotic, but at the same time serene. Then again, art is subjective, we love the colour and the painter, Wayan Lemon, was very reluctant to part with this piece as this was the piece that took him months to paint.
So, the empty room wall ended up looking like this sorry for the messy bed, was too lazy to stretch it up proper...LOL taking 10 now.
And if you noticed, the blue hue in the room was unintentional. The curtains are new, proper blackout bought and made from Kamdar. The blue nightlights are my companion for my bedside reading and the painting just blended in.
Yes, the room now too, looked small.
And so, the two other drawings were placed in the Walkway to the room, a colourful Phoenix painting to spruce the walkway up.
And yes, it make it all look small too.
And finally, we took the fake existing Cafe painting down ...
and replace with this Yin-Yang Balanced huge 5 feet by 5 feet painting.
And now, our 1000 odd sq feet apartment looked like it doesn't exceed 800 sq feet.
But we are very happy. It felt home, at last. Next up : Finding the right lights to *illuminate* both the head up!
The jitters are back again. Win this and one step closer to 100k (to be shared between me and Azly of course).
Next opponents are the crazy fit young jokers which could make us laugh while racing and totally make us lose concentration. We old buggers are not as fit as they are, but what we lack in fitness, we hope to win in Luck and Wit.
My blogging activities been pretty slow and quiet. Nothing to write about. I'm suffering from some writer's block...or so i think.
Anyway, for the past 1 week:
1. Met up with Songx - someone i knew for some time online but never met.
2. Played rugby for the first time in months.
3. Started lifting weight again and feel good about it...got to let the leg rest as i think i'm doing too much cardio.
4. Started cycling to the gym whenever i could. No better way to build the cycling legs than to cycle itself.
5. Saw Yoga Instructor walking down the aisleside walk while doing my back in gym.
6. Gonna get the paintings bought in Bali to be put up at home.
7. made a makeshift blackout curtain using blanket...after months of waking up with the sun shining through the beige curtain in the room, we decided to make a proper blackout curtain to sleep in over the weekend.
8. Suprised myself and did 1080lb on the leg press machine for 6 partial reps - yeah, call me a cheat.
9. Decided that i need to go high reps and high intensity from now on to cut and tone the body. Need to get rid of my flabby bod. LOL.
10. got worried about Round 2 of Explorace.
So, for more exciting updates...you all got to wait a while longer. Due to be out of action from the 2nd till 6th Of June for round 2 of the race.
Received a call from mum in law yesterday. She told me her neighbour, Mr. Phillip, gave her a copy of Today's NST Johor edition to her to be passed to me. He told her that i won't get a copy of this in Klang Valley.
I'm so thankful Mr. Phillip Lim! Mucho Gracias Tuan!
So, that is how it felt like, to recieve today's newspaper yesterday...
Anyway, to cut the story short, here is the paper printout (he can't smuggle the whole paper out, as some pages are still empty and waiting to be filled with more news, hence, he print out this page only)
Boss commented that my stance was totally wrong. I told him that i know and will consider taking up golf (at least the the driving range) with him first. but he say at least my grip were right. LOL. According to him, my elbow/arm/forearm aren't in 90 degree and i turned my torso too much too soon. I get his point.
Called Bandit yesterday and told him about this and his first reaction was "Do i look fat?" I told him no, as he was covered by Sasha and James.
I then Sms our contact in Johor, Amerul, to pre-book copies of NST for our own narcicist consumption. Thank you tuan for making that possible. Did the news stand mamak ask you why you needed like so many hundred copies???
Date: 12th -14th May 2006 Strength: 26 participants. Of which 19 cyclist. Total Distance Cycled (One way): 63 Km.
Day 1:
Pre-Amble Most of the cyclist were from Klang Valley. We left at about 6.30am, with cars/trucks coming from all different direction to be at Kluang, Johor by 10.00am for our ride into the 143Million years old forest.
The RV place was RnR Seremban and sharp at 7.00am, Harry, Ismadi (Chips), Kak Noraini (Mrs. K), Nora (OP K's Eldest daugther) and Aliyah (OP K's Youngest Daughter), Terence, Soon, Adilah and Mark (All K-OPs) were having breakfast as me, Azly (Bandit) and Emilia (Azly's colleague) arrived from KL to meet them.
About 10 minutes later, Doc Hisyam (Doc) came with Doc Amir, Min Ming and Puzi (Puzi is one of team member of Team Toyota 2020 that represented Malaysia in Eco-Challenge) to RV with us.
OP Tahir and wife came soon after while everyone was in the midst of gobbling down what must have been last minute of carbo loading.
As the feeding frenzy happens, everyonetook the time to introduced themselves as there were a lot of new faces amongst the groups. Everyone seems all ready and geared up to go. Breakfast was quick and the drivers decided to drive in a convoy to ensure thatno one get lost (on the highway???)
Kluang Town of many traffic lights The drive to Kluang was uneventful and took us a long 3 hours of which we RV-ed with OP Kam at Kluang as he was coming from JB side after dropping his wife the night before.
From there, it was anohter painful 45 minutes drive into Kluang town, passing by 2 roundabout and 1001 traffic light that was set up between that long 20km stretch of road.
We reached 5 RAMD by 11.45am and were welcomed by OP Amerul, OP Yoong, OP Mustafa Kamal (Bob),OP Ahmad Ramli (the Legend), The park Ranger En. Nizam and his two assistants, 2 units of 3 tonners with 7 support staffs from the Royal Signal Corp and morning break/tea for us.
We loaded up all the gears and bags and said our final farewell (well, for the next 3 days, that is) to civilization.
For many of the K-OPs, this is their first time entering an army camp proper and a first time for them to ride in a 3 Tonner. We the OPs had every chance to rekindle our love-hate relationship with this form of transport. The Signal's 3 Tonners were brand new. Hicom Handalan II, which is an automatic all aircond (for the driver and co-driver) plus it comes with sound system, as compared to the older Merc 3 tonner most of us are familiar during our time in Boyswing.
Even Adilah said that this 3 tonner looked different from the one that we took back to KL from Lumut last year.
After 30 minutes of roller coaster ride through the winding Kluang-Mersing road, we finally reached Kahang.
The cyclist unloaded their bike and make one last final check to ensure all equipments; brakes, seats, drinks and legs are a-ok and ready to go.
And the way we go! At 1300 hours. We are off. Well, almost, after taking the compulsory group pictures and after ber-posing maut.
The faster rider such as Bob went ahead of everyone. The slower ones like me and doc drop back to ensure that no one is left behind.
Well, with almost 5 stars treatment from the Signal guys and the Park Ranger, the Non-cyclists has to endure the long slow hard bouncy journey as fast as the last person on the bike went. Yeap, there is support vehicle behind us. The other 3 tonners went ahead to set up checkpoints at 20km mark for refreshments and some RnR for us all.
Soon and Doc commented that is how the profesional cyclist felt like, having a support vehicle behind them in races. Yes, for this trip, we all felt like we are some hardcore pro riders.
The first 20km was uneventful. It was purely cycling under the hot scorching sun in the middle of the Oil Palm plantation. A few of us concur that if we do inherit land as big as this, we imagined our fahter woud be telling us to go to plantation A, Section 3, Part B, Row 4 to fertilise the trees. The area is huge. So huge it isn't funny. What everyone city slickers like us will see along the highway is just a fraction of what the plantation is all about.
Drama At Km8, Doc's pedal mysteriously disloged from the crank. First drama for the day. Puzi came prepared with spare pedal. I guessed it's experience. He has been racing in those hardcore Eco-Challenges and he knows better what is worthy of carrying in races, let alone leisure ride like these. A first unofficial check point has been made right after the first river crossing, because of this pedal incident.
By 15km, some of us already feel the pain. In the butt. In the head. On the skin. The heat was most probably at it's highest at noon time. Everyone was reminded to hydrate themselves well or risk putting themselves to injury/heat exhaustation.
OP Tahir, being the eldest (notice i use the word eldest, not oldest) rider showed no sign of fatigue. At his age, he is considered superman by many of our standard.
At the 20km mark, as per planned, the 3 tonner were waiting for us all, with ice cold isotonic drinks, energy drinks and fruits. We all took a good 20 minutes rest before proceeding after clearing the area off rubbish.
The sun kept burning down on us and most of us thought we will be cycling under the cool canopy of the National Park. Cycling in open area which were both hot and dusty were new to some of us. But there is a mere 40km to go to reach Kuala Jasin. No one gave up and gallantly continued pedaling.
Both Harry and Chips has no problem doing 20km so far. Infact, both of them has a total combined experienced of 3 months between them where cycling is concerned. Well done Charlie Company!
Basically, for you all that is wondering what we ahd to go through the first 35 km. It all looked like the picture below.
National Park Finally We reached the entrance of the park at the end of the Plantation after what seemed like 3 hours of riding. There is 21.8km to go to Kampung Peta, where the Park HQ is on this part of the world. From there, it's another good 10km to Kuala Jasin where we will set camp is.
As usual, everyone stopped for pictures. This were the unknown time for some of us stopping as unofficial checkpoints. Taking things rahter easy as we are in no hurry to rush anywhere, we soak up as much dust, heat and nature as we could gahter.
The route in National Park has a lot of rolling hills. Meaning, there is a lot of climbs and a lot of downhill to be enjoyed. Experienced riders would love these route but for newbies, it could be a deciding factor if they ever want to cycle again. The gradient of the hills in National Park is of a minimum of 8 degree on the least steep climb and at least 12 degree (think the gradient at where the temple on the way up to Genting are) on the average. Long and hard for some of us.
And of course, with every hill you climb, you will be rewarded with a fast downhill. I've touched close to 50kmh on the steepest downhill only to stop to take pictures of cyclist coming down.
Pure accelleration and adrenalin!
After the last final climb before KM40 (second official checkpoint), everyone was huffing and puffing as they negotiated the steepest climb so far. Again, cold drinks and fruits were waiting for all the rider. Looking at the Military staffs that came along with us, our cycling trip looked like some covert operation.
Everytime we stopped during this trip, the Signal staffs will set up communication with the Camp. We felt safe of course. And we do feel that we are still hardcore riders!
The final 10km to Kampung Peta were tough as well. The road gets uneven and the climb gets steeper with every hill conquered.
We came to a point where we saw a tree that looked like a dinosaur and another that looked like a giant rabbit. See if you could spot them. The wonder of nature!
At this point, we are already in the fringe of Kampung Peta. Orang Asli settlement could be seen flanking the road and after a short 10 minutes ride up hill, we reached the Park's HQ (Johor Side).
The compulsory group photo taken and we are off again to our final 10km ride to Kuala Jasin.
Doc Balboa. Our resident Doc, Doc Hisyam, decided to run the final 10KM. Being a nerd himself back in college, he is one of the late bloomers that could shy any sportsmen back in college. An accomplished triathelete and official Ironman was his fulltime job. Being a doctor was just something he does part time during office hour.
I played the song Eye of the Tiger for his while he ran up and down the rolling hills. At the uphill stretch, he is faster than the bicycle! See to believe!
OP K's eldest daughter, Nora, decided to give the last 10km a go on the bike. Ever the sporting OP Daughter, he picked up the bike like fish to water. After a brief tutorial by Bandit on how to maximise the gears on the bicycle, she was having as much fun as the rest of us.
Drama number 2 unfold when Chips had a major cramp on both his quads. He was immobile for a good 10 minutes. His thigh muscle cramping and all me and Soon could do was to massage his humongous rugby thighs to relax the muscle. He was all sports and continued with the journey in the Trooper for the last 200meters to Kuala Jasin. In pain like his, if he pushed himself any furhter, he might be lying down in the bed for the rest of the trip. A good sportsman knows when to stop before injury sets in, and he did exactly that.
Kuala Jasin It was close to 1900hours when we finally have everyone at the finishing line. Happy as everyone was for a good cycling trip into Taman Negara. Everyone made it in alive. Not being attacked by Tigers or even BigFoot. Well, minus the fact that elephant dungwas haphazardly dumped all over the road...someone got to toilet train these big mammals ;-) We went in to our designated chalets. Meranti, Cengal and one more which i couldn't remember the name. Meranti was actually the usual chalet that Tengku Mahkota Johor stays. Wow. See, the 12 of us younger cyclist has the best chalet to stay! K-OPs were allgiven rooms to sleep in. The OPs like me, Doc, Bandit, Amir and Chips made best with the small living room that is big enough to place 4 single mattress with one person sleeping on the rattan sofa.
Amenities were minimal but adequate. No one expected any 3 stars treatment here even, which made it all much easier and more fun. As there were only 1 toilet/bathroom, the rest of us went to the communal toilet/bathroom to take our shower and clean up before dinner.
With the full moonlight on our head(it was Wesak day afterall), we had the most romantic dinner which tasted better with the company we are all in.
Most of us stayed up till about 2400hours that night, feeling still excited that we made it that far into the National Park.
While most K-OPs went to bed...we, the OPs could still be seen talking to each other after lights off until 2am.
What a fullfilling day it was!
Day 2 Chips alarm went off at 0630hours. Waking up all the occupants in the living room. Doc came out with the idea to wake up fully for the day jump into the river in base camp.
And that was what exactly we did. By 0715hours, everyone in Meranti was awake and most of us agreed to go to the river to check it out.
By 0730hours, Doc and Puzi jumped into the river. The deepest portion to be easily more than 8 feet in depth. But it wasn't the depth that scares us. It was the icy cold water. Only way is to jump straight in without hesitating. We we all did exactly that!
The happy campers at base camp were most rudely awaken by a bunch of physco cyclists that jumped into ice cold water early in the morning.
Our base camp is actually the converging point of Sg. Jasin and Sg. Endau, with rapid of at least grade 3, this place was good enough for white water rafting. Warning though, swimming is only allowed at the place as per the picture above and totally out ofbound for the part as per the picture below.
Breakfast was served by 0800hours and everyone were asked to fall in by 0930 for the day's activities.
Hiking trip we go! And as expected, Doc and Bandit has to give us a peek on how easy they could be.
We will hike to Kuala Marong, which is esentially a place for the conservation of Kelah (or river fish, ingenious to our country) and was told that the Blue Kelah are only found in Endau Rompin. Some were as long as my forearm(EU Size 45)
From there, we went to Upih Guling, a waterfall about 2km away from Kuala Marong. Along the way from Kuala Jasin, we had to cross Sungai Jasin, which has current strong enough to sweep you away if you lose your footing. We also passed 3 suspended bridge, the longest being the one before we reached Kuala Marong.
From Kuala Marong, we hike up to Upih Guling. No words could describe this place better than the series of photos below.
Then, me, Doc, Adilah and Soon decided to do some rock climbing at the waterfall.
Rain came pouring down 20 minutes after and we were forced to leave the waterfall for fear the water volume might increase and swell the whole place up. But the rain stopped as fast as it came, much to our dismay.
We hike back to Kuala Marong, where lunch was waiting for us. We each grabbed our lunch pack and headed to Blue Lagoon (Minus Brooke Shield, unfortunately) for eat and swim.
We were told to becareful as the water is 15 feet at least at the deepest part.
Some of us wasted no time and jumped right into the water. Ice cold as usual! Some of us trekked across the shallower part to the other side for some sun and warmth while eating the lunch. By then, some of us has swam to the deeper part (pic above, right hand side there is a stone) and climbed up the stone and jumped right in. It was pure kampung fun!
Then, Mark, K-OP from Bristol climbed up the tree (pic above, the slanting tree) and jumped into the water below. It sure takes a lot of guts to be able to do that.
Out of no where, Nora decided to do the same. She climbed the tree and slipped the first time, entering the water at the shallower part and getting a bruise in return. She climbed it the second time and this time, she managed to go all the way up and jumped in again!
Then, our OP Tahir decided to do the same. Winning applause from everyone there. Most of us were happy just to jump from the top of the stone. Nevermind the tree. We packed to leave the moment it showed sign it would pour again. This time, we weren't spared. We left and got stranded in the middle of the heavy rain. Only having a hut to save our own skin. That was also when Dram Number 3 came.
OP Legend (OP Ramli Kutu la tuh!) appeared at that exact moment to break news to us that the 4wd he was hitching a ride out to Kuala Jasin was stuck in the mud. Rendering his intention to RV with OP Azudin which was coming from KL to go back-failed.
So, Drama No. 3 involved all the guys (we left a few to make sure the ladies are safe, an even higher responsibility) and we hiked 2km back to Upih Guling where the 4WD trooper were caught in the rut.
The sight of the 4wd wasn't very pleasing. But it was what all 4wd lover would love to be in. What happen we found out later was that the 4wd was going up the slippery 45 degree slope when it started sliding back because of the water washing down the trailand right into the longkang as deep as 45cm on all 4 wheels. We had to winch it out and we had to do it fast. The rain wasn't the bothering issue, it was the fact that we were all attacked by leeches. A whole army of them!
We managed to pull the 4wd out half way from the rut when some of us realised that the cable has detached itself from the winch. Not very good. Stopped just in time before the 4wd would roll back or the risk the cable whiplashing anyone, we started to get worried.
Attempt to fix the winch were futile as a nut that held the end of the cable was missing. Nizam the Park Ranger grew worried. Maybe because this area were known to have tigers roaming around. But again, we were more irritated with the leeches.
Imagine this, while Mark was trying to fix the winch, i was busy squating behind him clearing leeches that was all over his calf and thighs. Even Doc Amir wasn't spared. There were one leech sucking on his hand as he was fixing the 4wd as well. The bleeding after the leech was dislodged took him more than 40 minutes to stop.
Then came Drama Number 4. No one could forget Bandit. A leech found it's way into his pants...and sucked on his testicles. He ran to the side, stripped his shorts to his knees and tried frantically to remove the leech. He totally forgotten there were 11 ofus there watching him do that. After a good 1 hour trying to push the 4wd out minus the winch and only realising that the 4wd function of the Trooper was busted in both 4L and 4H setting, we gave up.
Nizam gave us the option to back track to Kuala Marong or take the 4wd trail, it's only an extra 2km. Nothing we Old Boys, as he said, couldn't do. He stayed behind with his assitant to wait for anohter 4wd to winch the trooper out. We bid our goodbye and hope no tiger...or tiger leech comes out to harm him.
So, there we were, Me, Amir, Yoong, Amerul, Chips, Kam, Mark, Terence and anohter of Nizam's assitant walked up the slippery slope with more rolling hills back to Kuala Jasin. Mark was unfortunate as his sandal decided to separate from the sole, leaving him to walk barefooted. Kam was the next victim as he too, had to remove his sandal and walk barefooted. As for us rest with shoes, we had to walk as if our legs weight a tonne. Can't help it as the mud and slit stuck on the sole of our shoes, rendering us with platform shoes by the time we reached the first river crossing.
The walk was actually more than 2km as claimed by Nizam. We were hungry, cold, barefooted and hope we don't come across any Big Foot or tiger. Elephant was another worry as well as their dungs were everywhere. Usually these sightings would be very much welcomed, but not this time. We only have 500ml of water to be shared until we get back to base camp. It was essentially anohter adventure by itself.
Doc and Bandit backtrack to Kuala Marong after we said goodbye to Nizam. They will lead the ladies and others back to base camp through the jungle track which were nearer.
After an hour of trekking, we heard noises of people shouting. We are Near. But Kam said it might be elephant! But there we were. On the other side of the river, emerging from the track like we just escaped from the jungle. The rain made the river swell and the current was really strong. The 4wd adventurer had to form a human chain with the others on the other side to cross safely. Water was almost chest high as opposed to knee deep when we first crossed it.
OP Azudin and OP Amir was there to greet us. Their laughter and their joke, plus the OPs and K-OPs posing to see who has the larget tummy was a welcomed sight. Our worries now goes to Nizam, as along the way out, we didn't see any 4wd going inside to help him.
We all went back to basecamp and some of us decided to come back to this river to give our bike a wash and at the same time, take a bath as the communal bath place was conquered by a group of Rakan Muda out on camping trips.
Then came drama number 5. It wasn't until 1930hours that Amerul came and told us that we might need to go search for Nizam if he is not back in 30 minutes.
Then, as we waited along, Kam, Harry and Amerul came to tell us that they went to save the Park Ranger. They used a raft and paddled against the current to the other side as the river now was almost not crossable even if human chain were formed. So under the bright moonlight, the rescue mission to save our park ranger happened and he and his assitant was brought home safely.
It was also then where the leech on Bandit's left leg, near his pinkie toe decided to drop out after more than an hour sucking on him.
Back at Meranti. Card games were played and charade were acted out. It was total RnR for all of us while waiting for dinner to be served. While the game at Meranti happened, OP Azudin were telling stories under the tree to the other OPs and K-OPs which were there to listen.
It was a truly enjoyable night, especially after the long hike for everyone and in the company of fun people.
Dinner was served soon after and it was a full BBQ affair. Food were aplenty that we decided to give away what we can't eat to the Rakan Muda campers. Something we know they would appreciate and enjoy while being soaked up in wet weather.
After dinner, OP Amir gave free lecture on parenting in Cengal while the younger ones choosed to be back at Meranti for some games before calling it a night.
Lights off were earlier that night and everyone slept soundly.
Day 3 The day started early when OP Azudin went on his round to wake everyone up at 0630hours. Everyone woke up by 0700 and again, the usual Meranti gang decided to take one last dip in the ice cold river. This time around, the current was stronger and we had to be extra careful. We spent almost an hour inside the water and breakfast was served. The nasi lemak tasted like heaven. By 0930hours, the group that decided to bike out to Kahang had their logistic sorted.
Doc, Mark, Soon, Terence, Adilah, Min Ming and Puzi decided to pedal out. After packing their bags, checking their water bags and ensuring they have enough food to last the ride, they said their goodbye to Kuala Jasin. At 1030hours, they started their journey back to Kahang, another good 60plus KM to go. Hardcores!
The rest of us stayed back and packed up as well. We will visit Kampung peta Orang Asli village. The ride out using the 3 tonner was a different experience when compared to us cycling on the first day. Everything looked awfully not familiar for some of us.
We reached the village and were given demostration on how to trap various animals in the jungle. We were then given the chance to test our skills using the traditional sumpit or blow gun. 3 ballons were placed at 10 meters distance and we have to burst all3 before we are allowed to leave the place.
Everyone tried...but it was Charlie company, headed by Harry, Chips and Amir that completed the task. They were the Champion Company Blowjobber.
Then, some of us went to buy souviniers from the orang asli village before heading back to the Park's HQ for lunch. Soon after lunch, we headed back out of Endau-Rompin. It was almost 1500hours that we got out of the park.
I received sms from Doc that the cyclist entered the plantation at about 1330hours. The road were dusty and bumpy, it made our bicycle looked comfortable!
We didn't see Doc and gang until 3km from the starting point in Kahang. It took them a good 5 hours to cover than 60km.
Well done to them, they truly are hardcores doing the ride out minus any support compared to the day we rode in.
And they were well rewarded! They all saw a whole herd of wild elephant eating in the jungle. Mark has the pictures as he ventured inside to snap pictures of them. To be uploaded once i get the pics!
The Park Ranger commented that it was much easier striking lottery than seeing a whole herd (Adilah counted at least 6, from adults till baby elephants). And the pedalling out rewarded them with this once in a lifetime experience!
The 3 tonners brought us back to civilisation and we reach the camp at 1730hours. It was hard to say goodbye to the trip. Everyone packed and left the army camp by 1815hours. Non of us reach home earlier than 2300hours. But all of us agreed that this trip was definitely worth all the sweat sweated and drama involved!
I just found out, as i was walking pass my regular mechanic today, that someone we both know just passed away on Saturday.
He was a cheery 25 years old. Eldest amongst his siblings with one twin brother which doesn't act/look like him.
Their dad obviously knows which son of his could be counted on the most. Which son of his which never fail to win his trust.
I still can't believe what i heard.
The very same guy that gives me invaluable lesson on car's mechanism and repair. The very same guy which shed sweat and blood to fix up the old Beetles which me and wifey owns. The very same guy that could talk cock with me when i drop by his place. Is now gone.
I didn't even have a chance to say goodbye. He was buried yesterday. I only knew today.
His car spun off at LDP, hitting the divider and smashing into a signboard. The car was totalled.
Rest in Peace Ah Yoong, you touched my life in more than one way.
The only memory now which i have of you is when we both tried to get the brake lights on the Beetles to work amidst the that was pouring down heavily, only to find out that the reason why it wasn't working was because no one was stepping on the brake pedal.
coming out of the transition - just taking it easy
perhaps too easy until there is a rush to the finish?
i think i'm balding. Doesn't look as good when standing next to Mani and Soon
The Long and Endurance people. No, we aren't sponsored by Thule
The fun people -love the poses of the posers!
After fliping through 7th page (of 11 pages for Men Overall results)..i found my name on number 200 ( out of 299 participant, of which, only 257 finish/start the race) meaning i'm just better than 56 people behind me. and clocking in 1:06:40 for the first 10k run - 1:48:19 for the biking (plus minus 10 minutes telling Dilah what to do with her flats and walking with Terence for 1km to encourage him on before i go straight and he going to complete his 10k run) - and 40:52 for the final 5km to come out with a super slow 3:35:51.
Things me and Bandit will see throughout our races
it's 6am and what are you expecting? us to be all chirpy???
Well, at least they tried to be chirpy
Bandit testing out the gears...and his knee
laying out our gears. We were given 4 cans of Excel, 1 first aid box, 1 knife, 1 rain coat, 1 phone and 1 handsfree AND A NICE DEUTER CROSS BIKE haversack
close up of the bag -TQ TV3 especially Hanif the producer for spoiling us with this bag!
long report ahead. Will make good toilet reading material. report start:
ExploraceSeason 3: Race 5 Venue: Desaru/Kota Tinggi Date: 27th April 2006 Racers: James/David & Azly/Ee-Van Time: 0800 1900
Starting Point Me and Azly woke up a 4.30am. Not because we can't sleep, the room at Pulai is great and if given a choice, we would rather be doing the tourist thingy and just sleep in.
We were told to meet up at the lobby by 0600 to be transported to the starting point and the race will start by 0700.
At 0615, we went into a convoy of Gen.2 cars and were driven at 150km/h to Kota Tinggi (yes, that place is that predictable).
We reached the starting point in Kota Tinggi and were wired up with a pouch and a mic set. Yeap. This is it. Sasha was waiting for us at the starting point and we were briefed by Kama, the Producer about the whole race and issues again.
We met up with our race director and cameraman. I had Kamal and Tommy. Great combo i would supposed. In fact, i get to have 2 race director, Tommy and Tg. Ismail. It was scary as i was wondering what will i be made to do with 2 race directors!
The race start was delayed because the Helicopter couldn't make it on time and Kama wasn't too happy. At 0730, we had 2 mock up of the starting of the race. These were purely for TV thingy. I read my clue twice. Can't believing that this is the race, finally. My first clue was to:
Locate your Explorace Car at Bangunan Sultan Iskandar and drive to Tanjung Sedili. Once arrive, take the Bot Penambang to Sedili Besar. Meet Tok Shikh for your Q&A
At the blare of the horn, we ran and pretended to be reading the clue again (for TV la) and then i ran across the field and met my first obstacle. To climb up the small cliff over the big longkang. Obviously not very smart. I ran to some locals and ask them where the Sultan Iskandar Building. To my delight, it was just there. I then took the opportunity to ask them where Tanjung Sedili is, which they told me Jaaaauuuuuhhh!!! they then told me it is towards Mersing.
I ran to the front of the building and located the car. David were ahead of me. Damn it! I ran to the car and started it, awaited for the crews to jump into the car as well and the way we go!!!
Tanjung Sedili, Here i come! It felt surreal to be racing still. I tried to get my bearing right and i tried to recall the way into the starting point, of which, it will lead me straight to the junction where going straight will lead me to Desaru, turning right back to JB and turning left is towards Mersing. I saw the signboard for Desaru/KL/JB and assuming that it will lead me to the junction, i followed it and guessed what. It was the more scenic route that will cover a good extra 10km (5k to the first Kota Tinggi junction and another 5k to the second junction where i initially wanted to go).
Never mind i told myself, at least i know where this lead too. Deep in my heart, i hope David takes all the wrong turn as well and drive back towards KL. We came to a stretch of crusher run road that lasted at least a good 2km in distance, cheekily i told the camera that I'm doing a rally not Explorace and asked for Karamjit to move aside as i'm taking over. OK, that's corny.
Along the way, Tommy kept asking me if this is the way to Tanjung Sedili, i told him yes as the local has told me. Of which, he queried if i asked more than 1 person, well, the truth is, NO.
SO, there i was, with the notion of maybe getting lost and losing the race in the first task, i decided to turn left into this hardware store called Kong Kong Hardware. Ran down and the two girls in the shop ran away from me and the boss came out and i introduced myself and asked him for direction to Sedili.
He offered me direction AND a map so complete that if i ever got lost for all it's drawn, then i deserves to be lost. I spoke to him in Mandarin of which the crew managed to capture (Ha! At least now you all Chinese educated Chinese will see that i could speak Chinese!)
Having done that, i drove towards Tanjung Sedili, another good 30 minutes away or almost about 45km away. I looked at the time and it was 5 minutes to 0900 and i was told the ferry come hourly. Assuming the worse where David got to the jetty before me and managed to catch the 0900 ferry, i'm fucked.
Taking care not to break the law for all it's worth, that final 15km was painfully slow to pass by.
Task 1 I entered Tg. Sedili and headed towards the jetty... and saw DAVID!!! Flashing my headlights to irritate him and cheering for the camera for all it's worth that we are now back to square one.
I parked the car and asked how much is the ferry ride, of which the local said RM1. I had with me RM100 and ran around to change the cash. Managed to break a RM50 and i headed to the jetty to further irritate David. Yeap, square one. David told me that when he reached, the ferry JUST left. Looked like luck is on my side this time around.
I also found out that the ferry comes every 30 minutes and i made it for the 0930 ferry.
I asked around who is Tok Shikh and was told he is waiting for us at the other jetty driving his Toyota Unser. David and me managed to lighten up with him saying that we are gonna look for Dato' Sheikh and DJ Dave. The locals laughed with us and perhaps so, we realised that it is as important to have fun, while attempting to break each other's neck.
Upon arrival at Sedili Besar, i ran ahead of David and towards the Tok Penghulu. Greeted him and it suddenly felt strange. I felt as if i am in Amazing Race. With the Tok Penghulu saying Selamat Datang ke Sedili Besar, ini sampul surat dan soalannya. Itstill felt surreal.
My question: Name the main attraction in Kota Tinggi and Where is it located?
My answer: The waterfall in Kota Tinggi? And where is it? Kota Tinggi????
I knew it was wrong. Was given another envelope as my penalty.
Wrong answer! As a penalty, search for the Explorace Dayung in one of the houses at Jalan Hj. Mohd. Lazim. Go from house to house & inquire if the Explorace Dayung is there.
I ran and found the road and started knocking on every door in the neighborhood.By the time i exited the first house, David was ahead of me asking other houses. Decided to play it smart and let him do some of the talking and checking. I noticed he took longer than needed at one of the house with many ladies standing outside. One of the house i went told me they do not want to buy anything i'm selling. Hahahahaha!
I then went to the next house that David firstly went. The owner told me the Dayung was in that house. Knowing that David didn't enter that house, i decided to try my luck. Asking nicely and properly, they said it is inside the house and i need to look forit. I took my shoes off and went into this house. Searching up and down in and out and by a stroke of luck, the Dayung literally fell out from where it was hiding. Ecstatic!
Reading the clue again: carry the Explorace dayung and hitch hike to Kg.Sembayong Jetty. At the jetty, row the sampan o the Poles marked either in Red or White colors. Collect several bento with crabs in it.
I managed to hitch a ride with the makcik's nephew and wondered where David was, then i saw him JUST coming out of a house with his Dayung! Shucks! Faiz, my motorbiker sped past David, with me trying to irritate him more by heaving my dayung up and indicating to him i'm ahead, again. The ride was bumpy, winding and exciting. Not long after that David was behind me again.
I reached the Jetty and ran to look for the pakcik. Saw him, in fact, in my rush, i was talking to another TV3 crew. Hahahah!!! silly me! So, i had to repeat the thing again to the pakcik. I noticed my dayung has the white explorace sticker and hence i need to row the sampan to the white flag and poles.
The river is about 100meter wide, maybe more. The flag on the other side of the mangrove forest looked tiny. I jumped into my sampan and released the string securing the boat.
I row for my life and by the time i was in the middle of the river, i saw David struggling with his sampan. Obviously he forgot to release the rope! I was hoping he remain that way. As i reached the flag, i saw loads of pole sticking in the water, marked with red and white, i am supposed to take only the white poles. My first 3 poles i pulled out didn't have any single Bento in it. The fourth one has a Bento with no CRABS! It wasn't until the 6th pole that i had 2 crabs inside and these muther are huge! Thefirst two was the size of my palm. After checking all my poles and crashing into David twice, i only managed to get 3 crabs. It was then that my race director told me there is another side with more crabs. And that other side is RIGHT NEXT TO THE JETTY!!!I noticed the tide are coming in or going out. The current were strong and i had to struggle to get back to the other side. David was still at the first place and he seems to be very lucky with the crabs. Shucks!
I was tired by the time i reached the second spot, started pulling the poles in frenzy and noticed that this place has more crabs in my white poles! Yes! It only took me 10 minutes to get the rest of the 7 crabs. Decided that it will be better to be safe than sorry, i went and get 12 crabs in total. Can't afford to go wrong, can't we?
I then pedaled a sort distance and went up the jetty with my catch.
Looking back at the clue: using the right technique, tie 10 crabs and deliver to Mr. Sarah Yassin to get the next clue. Warning! Both the crab's claws must be intact and tied securely otherwise it will be rejected
I noticed the first set of crab i caught only has 1 claw, so, that will be rejected. At that moment, i felt blessed i had 12 crabs with me. :D
the pakcik showed me the rope of crab tying. It looked simple and do-able. Mixed feeling of being afraid of the crabs and the eagerness to try something different sets in. after going through the steps with the pakcik, came my turn.
It is a totally 2 different sets of experiences eating and handling crab. I grabbed the first crab and SNAP!!! excruciating pain flooded my middle right finger and i realised a set of claw broke off after t snapped at my middle right finger. I recalled i yelped like a woman/he-woman... It was painful and electrifying. Great first crab and it happened this way.
Traumatisedit took me 5 minutes to tie one crab. 5 minutes each. By the time i was done with my 6th crab, i heard the locals shouting as David almost capsized. Apparently it's low tide and all the water are flowing out to the sea. He was struggling with the tide and to balance while he was pulling the poles out. Thank goodness i do not need to be in his position.
I was getting better after the 4th crab and it took me less than 3 minutes for each crab. As i was finishing my 7th crab, David emerged and was shown how to tie the crab. I knew i was in trouble when i noticed that 3 crabs i caught was of the single claw type. Meaning i only have 9 crabs!
After tying the 9th crab, i was asked to go back into the water and get one more to be tied.
Jumped into the sampan and even before i could release the rope, i was already struggling with the current. By the time i released the rope... i was drifting away. The local assured me i will only reach Singapore in this tide and current and i knew David was smiling as he knew i had to go back to the water.
I struggled fighting the current and managed to haul up 2 crabs in the next pole. Only to see BOTH the crab are single-clawer! Damn it! The next one i pulled out has the perfect feature... even though it was so small i bet it would disappear under my shoe when i want to tie it down.
I emerged from the boat and noticed David has done 7 crabs. Shucks! Rushing i managed to finish tying the last crab without dislodging any of it's claws or legs. I was told before hand that the small crab would have their claws and legs easily dislodged. So, i was very careful with this last one, as i know for sure, there isn't anymore crabs in the water that was planted by the crew and locals!
I thanked the pakcik and i told him i won't make a living caching crabs. He say i'm right as i won't even have money to buy gambir, let alone the sireh leaves!
Task one DONE! And ahead of David! Next clue was:
take the explorace boat to jeti tanjung sedili. Then drive the explorace car to Desaru Golf & Country Resort and find Chef Ghazali at the clubhouse restaurant to get our next task.
It is easily another 90km drive to Desaru. When i reached the Jetty, i rushed to the car and decided to ask the police where is the nearest route, if there is one. He told me to take a certain road and go straight and I'll reach Desaru. It is a total of 45km. Not too bad at all!
Elated, i sped off and drove at 90km/h and adhering to the local traffic condition and listening to my race director and cameraman for instructions. I was asked what I'll need to do at the restaurant and i mad a guess that I'll be made to cook something.
15 minutes later, i realised that David was behind me. Tailgating me. He overtook me on the double line on the bridge and i wasn't too happy. Later he did ask if i want to overtake back again and i decided not to since we are like 2 seconds behind each other. No point i would say.
We reached Desaru Golf Club with David ahead of me and we ran to chef ghazali.
Task 2 The task read as per below: go to the driving range on foot. Collect 10 golf balls marked either in red or blue. Exchange the 10 golf balls for a golf set with En. Azman. Carry the golf set to tee box 13, par 5.(use the map provided
I almost burst out laughing. For years, my boss pestered me to pick up golf and i refused. Serve you right Ee-Van.
So, me and David ran to the driving range and we met up with En. Azman. Neck to neck. En. Azman showed me the balls that i need to collect. Here were 300 balls scattered all over the driving range, one side red, and one side blue. I took the blue side. I ran to the range and started to look for the 10 pins in the haystack. I found my first one easily. Then i realised i need to come out with some form of system to ensure i do not waste time and miss out any balls. So, i started to throw the balls I've checked to one side, away from the unchecked balls.
I also developed the Z-sweep technique learnt in RMC. I went in Z shape, covering all ground from left to right right from the far end. The range is 250m long and 70 meter wide, so, each of us has to search an area of 250x30 meter for that 10 balls.
The time was almost 1230 and it was burning down on us. Sweating buckets and eyes unable to open due to the sun's brightness. The TV3 copter were hovering over us and i felt like a celebrity. After what seems like eternity, i managed to collect 6 balls from all over the driving range. I shouted across to David and asked how many he managed to get and i had a feeling he was lying when he say he got 4. To make him feel a bit better, i told him i also got 4.
It must had been almost an hour under the hot sun that i managed to gather 8 balls. The camera crew said i already had 10 balls. That is, 8 from the range and 2 of my own. Hahahahaha... if only! I realised that i must not forget to have fun, so, i took all 8 balls out and put them on the ground while praying to it, asking them to go look for their 2 missing siblings.
By the time i managed my 9th, David had 10 balls and shouted to me to take my time as he has managed to get all 10 balls.
3 minutes later, i managed my 10t. Ecstatic as i noticed that David is still at the range packing his stuff up and hauling up the golf set, i ran as fast as i could and caught up with him as he was leaving the range. I exchange the balls for the golf set and ran towards Hole 13.
I was cursing myself and psyching myself to catch David. I ran with the set ramming recklessly against my butt. He looked behind and saw me chasing him down and he started to run. I managed to reduce his lead by 30 seconds as when i reached the Teebox, he was just tee-ing off. Is first shot brought the ball as far as...5 meters. Yes. We do look silly.
It took me 5 or 6 swings before i got the ball airborne. It landed a good 50 meters in front. Hole 13 is a 350m course. David's second swing hit the ball, which bounced against the side rock and it shot off backwards to some bushes. A 10 minutes penalty will be imposed if you do not locate the ball.
My second shot brought the ball 10 meters further. Luck was better with my later shots as i landed on the green by my..err...20th shot? Took the putter out and noticed David is about 50 meters behind only! Took me two putting action to land the ball insidethe hole. There you go... at a par 5 course i managed a 22, or more.
There i met up with Major Ramli to get my next clue. Knowing he was an army officer, i stood at attention and asked for his permission to continue with the race, which he then gave me an envelope and a buggy.
drive the buggy and park it at the clubhouse. Then using the Explorace car, drive to the Pulai Beach Resort. Park the Explorace car in the designated lot and then run to the swimming pool. Ask around to locate Rm. Yazid. Drag the upih with Mr. Yazid siting on it.
I told the camera that i had this feeling that Mr. Yazid will be one big muther. I drove the buggy and got lost in the golf field. Damn it! Swearing again for my won stupidity i try to locate the fastest way out. I was just starting the car to leave when inoticed David just parked the buggy. Arrgh! Neck to neck again and i though i had left him far behind.
The Golden Key This time around, not gonna let him be ahead of me, after he finished overtaking me, i overtook him with the permission of my race director and drove inside Pulai.
I overshot the parking and reversed and there he was, David, right next to me as we parked the car. Not wanting to waste any single seconds, i made a mad dash to the pool. The lobby was filled with tonnes of school kids there for holiday. It was like playing touch rugby, trying not to run into any of them while side stepping myself and them as i ran for what my lung could bring me. I noticed David were drifting behind and i slowed down. I supposed there should ONLY be one En. Yazid, and getting there first will be very very advantageous as then, David has to wait until I'm done before he could have Mr. Yazid.
I reported to Mr. Yazid. A chubby 20 years old weighing in at 80kg, or so he say. He doesn't even look 90kg. He looked more. And once he sat on the Upih and me started to pull him...God help me. I couldn't move. The soft Desaru sand doesn't help as the more forceful i pull, the deeper my legs goes into the sand and the more obstacle i made myself to pull over Mr. Yazid. The Upih gathered sand under them and that just made the whole thing worse.
By the time i managed to pull him over 20 meters, David arrived. And guess what, there is another Mr. Yazid! Damn it!
The whole length of the beach was about 100m plus minus 20 meters. It was far. Soft sand and heavy load, plus fatigue starting to set in doesn't help. Hot afternoon sun with the warm salty sea breeze hitting your face was almost redundant when you put both of them together.
David stopped to rest and so did i. Taking the opportunity to rest while he was resting. I'm a good 30 meters infront of him and no way he could overtake me. If it is hard for me here, it is twice as hard for him there. Downing the sponsored Excel and sharing it with Yazid, i was told that he and that abang weight the same, at 80kg. Look, i am about 80kg. He is not, and definitely the abang is not!
In what seems like an hour under the sun pulling, tugging and doing everything i could to pull him through the distance... i swored, i swear, i scream, i grunted... high level and chances of giving up. I could see David struggling and my phone rang more than twice, Bandit is calling me.
I knew for a moment there that i had to get this task done and get my Golden Key and bring it to Bandit or risk forsaking him. I have this lead and advantage now. Pain is secondary, completing this is utmost important.
With one last pull, i got yazid over he line...and he pass me the Golden Key and i asked him again what was his weight. He told me 103kg. Now i get it. David and James weight about that weight. And if Yazid is 80kg only then it won't be fair for me as the20kg different for David will result in him having an easier time. Hence, to make it fair, i had to pull the same weight as David's bodyweight. I took a breather, collapsing to the ground as the fact i finally got the key sank in. Took picture with Yazid and re-read my clue:
Head to the meeting point at Pejabat Felda Semenchu to join our partner there. Together locate the home of Pakcik Maalip on foot. Meet pakcik Maalip for your next task. Reminder! Keep the Explorace Golden Key safely with you until the end of the race.
The time was about 1500 as i remember a lady asking me for the time as i was running to the car.
I jumped into the car and drove away after i wished David good luck. I'm back in the lead. Great! I called bandit and explained to him why it taken me so long and how my fingers got snapped by the crab. (ie tengah manja). He gave me the direction to the Felda HQ and i drove knowing that David still has a good 40 meters or at least 15 minutes to go before he manage to finish the pulling.
Playing the mind game with James, i told Bandit I'm ahead of David by a good 15 minutes, Bandit replied by saying what? David is a good 25 minutes behind you?. IN races like these, being fit is not enough, we got to be playing the mind/mental game to dishearten the opponents. The pressure is on us to win this race as we came in as favourite.
After a good 20 minutes of driving, i reached the Felda HQ. I waved at Bandit and told James not to worry as David should be about 20 minutes behind.
Bandit did some homework while waiting for me and he knows exactly where to go. So, off we went to Pak Maalip's house. I had to stop for pee stop. Bladder bursting. By then, it was already close to 1530. I took a leak while the TV crew went passed me and the police and ambulance stayed away to give me some privacy. Bladder cleared and at least 500grams lighter, we made a dash, hand in hand to the house.
Team task 1 We reached the house and reported to pakcik maalip. We were given the next task: both of you are to dress in the traditional zapin costumes of Johor. The perform the Zapin Johor by following the dancers. Only when the dance instructor is satisfied with your performance will you be given the next clue
we both burst out laughing. We are so gonna make a fool out of ourselves on national TV. Going in after taking off our shoes, we changed into the whole baju melayu with chicken feahter on the songkok.
The music start and i swore i lost coordination. It was hard to follow, let alone dance. Bandit was as stiff as a metal and i am no better. Together we made a very very good kungfu master performing drunken mantis kungfu.
We finished the first song in 10 minutes and it didn't satisfy the teacher. By the time we reach the half way mark to the second song only did we decided to come out with our own dance step as long as we could almost coordinate our silly legs with the restof the dancer.
That was when James and David showed up. They too, had to change and dance.
This time, by the time they were dancing with us, it was again back to neck to neck race. Only difference now is that whoever that could shake their booty better will have the advantage.
We managed to satisfy the teacher the second time around and was given the next clue.
Using the Explorace tandem bicycle, head for Desaru Fruit Farm where you will meet Mr. Steve Er. Get the next task envelope from him
Yes. Cycling, our favourite disipline. We reckon that we had to capitalise on this and lead until the end of the race. David and James is just a max of 20 minutes away, providing that they, like us, need 2 songs to get the move right, that is.
Cycling on the tandem is a tricky affair. We function well if we were to cycle alone. Not when we are 2 person. Bandit and me lost our cool to each other as it was getting frustrating the initial 5 minutes. We then stop and talk about it and then we were functioning as an unit. He rolling hills along the road leading to Desaru is very nice and daunting sometimes. Whenever we can, we wen o the highest gear and clocked almost 50km/h and running out of cadence. We can't afford to let this slip away, not after so much has been done for the last 8 hours of the race.
Then it started to pour cats and dogs. Rain hitting on us like small pelt being thrown on us. We love the rain. It rejuvenated us. Gives us new energy. It felt like the ride to Lumut all over again.
It took us a good 40 minutes to reach Desaru Fruit Farm. The rolling hills did summon us to be going with granny gears and painfully slow. We reckon, again, if it is hard for us, it will be at least 2 times as hard for them. We never fail to look behind everytime we reach the hill's apex, just in case we could see the two of them. Seeing them is not a good sign and we get new source of energy everytime we didn't see them behind us.
Golden Box and Golden Key meeting each other. We parked the tandem and ran to Mr. Steve to get the new set of clue.
plant the dragon fruit tree using the material given and according to the specs in the attached drawing. After that, squeeze 4 cups of Limau Manis and present it to Mr. Steve Er.
We were provided one hoe,one saw, 2 long 4 inch timber, 4 long 2.5 inches timber, nails, rafia strings, blade and 4 dragon fruit seedlings. We need to saw the 4 inch timber to 6 feet length. Then plant the timber, which will act as support for the fruit to grow on 1.5 feet into the ground. Then, make a 2x2 feet square frame with a piece of wood in the middle to be knocked onto the top of the support.
Sounds easy, or so you think so. Try doing it after doing the whole day activities for a good 8 hours with no break for me. My mind refused to cooperate with my body. Bandit and me went to work straight. He began by digging the hole and frustratingly, the ground was filled with rocks. Digging up the hole with a hoe/cangkul was no eas task at all. We changed work and i began digging, as it was agreed before the task that i'll do all physical task and bandit the thinking task. In short, he will be my bitch. After 20 minutes of digging, i found my finger froze and refused to open. I had to pry my own left fingers open to release the hoe.
It was then that David and James showed up and was given the similar task. No time to waste, got to work faster.
It was scary. I noticed blisters forming, but it wasn't painful. Bandit finished sawing the first piece of support and i huriedly dig deeper. After Mr. Steve gave the a-ok to the depth i put in some earth to keep it there.
Then i had to put in the organic fertiliser. It smelt of ammonia. Same smell as the rubber factory smell. It was foul. I had to use my hand to spread the fertiliser and stopped to give Bandit a hand with some carpentry work. His fingers too, frozed up. By then, i noticed that David were digging a second hole, as the first hole wasn't penetratable by the hoe, which i presume was laden with stones underneath. After helping him with the initial wood work, i went back and took the fruit tree out of their poly bag.
One by one, i placed the fruit tree on the 4 flat part of the square 4 inch support. I then tie it up with the rafia strings provided. Then, i covered it with some earth and more fertiliser. By then, my hands were covered with fertiliser and were smelling foul. Bandit finished his work as i finished pulling out all weeds from the new plant bed and backfilling the planter's box like a hill to support the plant.
By then, the frame proved to be too heavy for one of us to lift, it need two person to lift it up. Having done that and checking of the alignments and getting the a0ok from Mr. Steve, we nail the frame onto the support. Mr. Steve requested for 3 nails to be hit in. one on each side and one in the middle for good luck.
We then rushed to the table next to it to squeeze the limau. Bandit cut the fruits and i started to squeeze it with my bare hand. Only then i felt the stinging sensation on both my hand. Blisters that had formed from the digging broke because of the acidity of the local orange, it was stingingly painful. I blocked off the pain and continued to squeeze. By then, the orange juice looked brown. In my haste i forgot to wash my hand. There you go. Orange juice with organic fertiliser. Yummy. I had a feeling that we will have to drink this. And from the look of the crew and Mr. Steve, we both believe so. We decided to squeeze close o 5 cups for good luck. James and David were still digging and making the frame. We took our time and to make sure we don't do anything wrong.
We brought the brown orange juice to Mr. Steve and was asked to open the box with the key.
Inside, there was the last clue.
Drink the 4 cups of Limau Manis and go to the old bike. One of you must ride the bike while the other sit on the bike. Go to the finishing point that is Taman Tasik Penawar
we reluctantly drank the 4 cups of sweet limau manis laced with organic fertiliser. We wan to win it, and there is no way we allow this fertiliser to stand in our way. Afterall, it is only shit...and nothing is more shitty than letting some shit stand in your way to victory.
We then posed with a signboard with Explorace 27-4-06 written on it. Signifying that we planted the beautiful tree and it was a PASS!!! We can officially make a living panting dragon fruits now. :D
We ran to the old bike, met with the owner of the farm which gave us 2 bags of cut fruits which we must finish by the time we reach the finishing line.
So, there we were, on our last 10km journey with me cycling and bandit sitting behind feeding me with the sweet fruits. There were dragon fruits, jambu, watermelon, kedondong, pineapple, jambu air...
To the finishing line more rolling hills in sight. This time, riding a single speed bike that weight a tonne and our partner right behind you feeding you fruits like 2 lovers that is out pak-tor-ing. It was very difficult going uphill and we had to push on 3 occasion until flatter ground was found. I could feel my quads tightening up and cramps starts setting in. Got to take it easy. Bandit offered to pedal but i told him not to and rest, just in case we need to run to the finishing line with James and David behind us.
We reached the junction to Bandar Penawar when the race director came to us and stop us. Asking if we did the dragon fruit correctly and was told by the director that the opponents made a complain that we didn't do it correctly/out of specs. We were devastated. Victory is a good 20 minutes or 8km away and this has to happen.
We werent' too happy and served our 10 minutes penalty. Hoping that they won't show up by then.
After being reprimanded for what seemed like eternity, we we finally allowed to carry on. We pedaled and asked for direction. With locals offering to even bring us there in their vans. Victory was looming, and so was David and James. Working purely only onadrenalin and defying all pain the body is telling me at that moment, i guessed i turned into a semi beast with Bandit asking me if I'm ok and that there is no way they could catch us. The hill was tough and we had problem riding it, that meant it could be 4 times as hard for them, pressured even more by the fact they are trailing.
But i did not take the chance. I pedal. Hard. Fast. Strong. Pausing only to interject Bandit breaking into songs for the tv camera.
We finally reached the finishing line at 1800 plus minus, with the crowd cheering us and Shasha waving at us. The feeling was estactic.
Bandit turned to me and said: did you realised this is the first time we ever won any race???
Pathetic as it might had sound. YES
James and David didn't reach the line until 45 minutes later.
What a race it was!
Just got an email, My second round race will be from the 2nd till 6th of June. Destination? UNKNOWN!
