Xterra Teaser 11km Trail Run Race Report

Intense Weekend. Two days of races happened at Putrajaya under the "Xterra Teaser" events. The whole idea of this was to allow everyone a taste of what Xterra is about - offroad fun and adventure. The teaser event allow those that sign up to experience what it is like to race the course made for the coming Xterra World Championship in May.

Manageable

I've signed up for the World Championship qualifier and Family Challenge in May. However, as luck has it, they ran out of slot for the Triathlon Teaser which happened on Feb 9. My own fault actually as I was too caught up with work. In fact, the original plan was for me to run the 22km Night Trail. That took an unfortunate turn as I failed to sign up as well!

With Arman. Ultra-geek

However, the Organisers knew my plight as they had expected me to race and the lucky chance came a week before when the winner of the Xterra Night Trail (for 11km slot) emailed the organiser that he will not be able to run it and hence the organiser could pass the slot to me!

Race Kit collection

Helping Out and Racing It Out
A recent conversation with the MWM Race Director (Karen) and as shared by Mr. Wan (the very experienced Race Director of many races) has reaffirmed that every athlete should at least volunteer ONCE every 6-races he/she enters. Which sound legit as I've been helping out, supporting or doing what I can outside of racing in the past years. This way, the athlete WILL gain valuable insight into how the races are organised and what it takes to make things work. Surely we all took it for granted that "magic happens", more often that not, many things requires a lot of hard work. The intention was to help out even if I am racing both days of the teaser, after all, I am of no podium potentials and I derive more pleasure interacting and helping out during races.

Helping to "light" up the trails

The trails has been set months ago and has seen many using it as part of the preparation. The marking, however, can't be done in advance due to vandalism and some were removed prior to the races even. Peg markers with re-white stripes were even removed by people. So, the challenge were really to get all marking done as close to the race as possible - which was why some of us were at Putrajaya on both Saturday and Sunday to help out.

Getting Ready To Mark the Trail - 4pm.

 Yeap, that was how close it was - 2.5hours to race start and we need to get in to ensure everything is OK! Myself, Lee and Keng Pin were given the task to mark about 7km worth of Trail from Water Station 2 (PCP) to Water Station 3 (Sungai Langat), specifically for the 22km runners. Being racers ourselves, we should be able to judge better the level of information needed to navigate the trail and in the dark.

The tools

Plan was to put as many signage as possible. Azrul will work from reverse Water Station 3 and work towards us (along Sungai Langat). The marking went well, but slow as we need to ensure all LED lights are placed adequately and all signage sufficient. We managed to walk and mark 5km before meeting Azrul at the end of Dengkil 30minutes before race flag-off; and already as I look behind while putting/leaving the LEDs on the ground along the open field where the gas-line runs through, local boys were already removing/taking these LEDs for their own joy...I am having some issues with my Garmin Connect, so the best map you can see is from this website i upload as spare/backup.

5-mins to 11km Gun-off!

I arrived 5-mins before the gun off and had no time to change my shorts for the race. I somehow managed to remain calm, pinned the number on my 2ndSkin Team shirt, pop in Hammer Endurolytes and Anti-Fatigue tabs (4 and 2, respectively). I literally grabbed the Ultimate Direction Anton Krupika pack with two Camelbak bottle, wore the Skechers GoBionicTrail and ran off to the start line- with 3 minute to spare (see time in photo above!)

Sorry about the socks...hahah (yes, office socks because they are thinner)

I ran with my camera that evening to try to capture as much as I could, and I know it will do poorly in the dark and me moving. The weather was great and looked like it will be a dry night run after all.

Love the Blue Sky!

A quick jog to the race start and already the crowd for the 5.5km run has already started packing up. Not much time to say hi to many as I wanted to get in front to take photos...

From the back as the announcer started counting down!

Hanim and Andri - Trail couple

All ready

On Your Mark!

Hello Simon! You can see how everyone hand is on their watches to start the race....

And....

GO!

I ran to the front to get away from the main pack. In a trail run, the nightmare starts when you get held up at the back, because you can't move and some could not have the same level of confidence to jump around to move.

What was he checking?

As I take the first corner, I noticed a familiar face! Hello OP Sir!

Yeap, I stopped for photos and take photos as I run. It is how it should be! Have fun!

Running by the Putrajaya Lake

500m into the run I realised it was reverse of 2013 Xterra 5.5km loop. Having the knowledge of last year's trail and how the terrain will be like sort of allowed me to run more confidently and just follow the markers (RED arrow). 

The Quarry

A friend capture some photos of the 11km runners going up the quarry. Thanks Monza for the photos!

Thank you Monzar!

Thanks Monzar.

It was still bright at 7pm and I decided not to run with the MJ808 Magicshine headlamp on my head. I noticed many has headlamps and a big majority do not. Big mistake as the race director DID inform to bring a headlamp! For me, the drive is to finish the race as fast as possible and judge if lamps are needed towards the sunset. Meaning, I have about an hour to complete it. 

Fast downhill

Keep heads off the low hanging branches!

About 15minutes later or about 3km later, I caught up with the back pack of the 22km runners. Many already starting to walk and they will be running/walking well into the darkness of night. I only hope they have lights! However, the LED light idea is good as it allow some level of visibility for runners as they run into the dark.

Running besides the 22km runners

Bumped into KH Tang

And Arman!

was pretty stoked as I continued to power on

Image of the tunnel and how the LED lit the tunnel

The race then brought the runner to PCP and the route made us run up stairs. It was a pretty good Rocky Balboa moment.

Simon Cross overtook me at PCP...Tough man to catch back!

It then lead us up to the first water station where the 11km will run down towards Race venue and the 22km will make a turn to go down via the PCP technical trial (which were marked by the me and a few others prior to running the 11km)

Running down the drain...careful!

It was almost sunset and to share, this is the view you will see from the top of this Pondok at PCP. Thanks Monza for the pic!

Empty road in Putrajaya

As I ran back towards the starting line via reverse Xterra 2013 route again, i bumped into more friends marshalling. Here is Fadzly. :D

He and Shikin has been volunteering for many races! Thank you!

And this is how the trail looked like at about 8pm...Yeap, DARK, saved for the LED light. :D

5.5km participants can be seen going down the trail

And as I came out from the last bit of undergrowth, I saw the whole barren plot of land next to Pullman lit up like an airport runaway. Photo is from Monza. I did not managed to take any pic at that point of time.

You got to be blind not to see the orange dots. Thanks Monzar!

I kept the pace up till the finishing, with Dave (Race Director) telling me to run faster as Simon Cross was just right infront of me. So, I did...and took photos as I approach the finishing line.

I crossed the line in 1:07:43 and without headlight. It was good run and fun, but I secretly wished I could had ran the 22km instead. The run earned me a medal (reserved for top 200 of each 5.5km, 11km and 22km category). As I made my way back to the car, I chance upon OP Joe again. Turned out, his daugther ran the 11km trail too and he was there to give her the support.

Nicely done sir!

I ran on empty (no food before and during) and went straight to my car to replenish and change/shower. Hammer Heed (sports drink) worked as recovery for me that night. Not ideal, but was good as organiser placed fruits (Orange and Apple) at finishing, which I thought was superb idea.

The dry pack soil covered my GoBionicTrail

My 1:07:43 run earned me as Top-5 finisher for Men. I know there is no prizes (cash) involved in the Teaser event, as it is meant as an introductory to the main event in May. The fastest runner was Damian which turned in at 56minutes fast. Next runner were 6minutes slower and the 3rd, 4th (Simon) and 5th(me) came in about 40 to 1 minute gap of each other. 

Surprise Podium

Turned out there were a plaque to reward top-3 runners of age-group category and I came in 3rd for my age-group. No complains there. First time being on the Podium (as in 1st to 3rd)! Nice end to the night!

With Sean, the Race organising chief from Radius International

More Photos
Some selected photos from the race (after) and more can be viewed in my Facebook Page Here. Remember to LIKE the page ;-)

Race Pro

- Good race route. A lot of effort has went into this to allow for a no-loop 11km and 22km distance. Tracking/finding an offroad trails of these distances is not easy due to restriction at certain area where private properties (of locals) is not well demarcated.

- Great idea with the LED lights. Other race would just give you reflective tapes. If you do not have a headlamp, it's "Good luck to you!" (and by the way, race director already reminded you to have one)

- Good that finisher medal is limited to certain numbers - got to make everyone work for it!

- Sufficient water at all stations (it has been advised that you carry your own water and nutrition anyway)

Race Con

- Some area not well marked or the markers too far. 

- Lack of marshal around race course.

- Lack of medical personnel at critical points.

- Seems that the original plan to provide "finisher t-shirt" did not materialise. Organiser should be able to address this. 

Reflection

On the first con, I can answer that as it could be because some trails only has that one option (to go straight). However, the LED markers has been placed all over the trails. There were feedback that the LED markers went dead at some places. This could be due to bad contact. But the following markers should make up the missing lights.

Having raced in darkness (caves, pitch black) and dusty condition (where the dust reflects back all the lights you throw in front), the key to this is to keep your eyes on markers and signage that are always placed at eye level. Mistakes such as looking down (3m in front to the ground) and case of "following the leader" in the trail (aka not looking out for the trail markers yourself) usually lead a large numbers of people lost. So, if you are the leader, ALWAYS make sure you get the trail right!

Next : The Feb 9, 2014 MTB XC Route Report

Yeap, I did not race the triathlon as I failed to register on time and there was no empty slots available for me by the organiser. But I had loads of fun being the sweeper for the MTB XC race. Superb 35km single loop. More of that later!

ForeverAlone moment in the trail as sweeper

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The Goodness of Coconut Oil For Triathlete

It is true that coconut has 1001 uses. Everything from the trunk to the leaf has it's usage. Coconut juice, or water from the fruits has been known to be the best electrolytes. I have back in November 2011, wrote about Food That You Should Be Eating and has shared that coconut is one of the food you should eat more often.

No. 5 Eating coconut meat will provide medium chain triglycerides (MCT)

MCT in VCO
It has been close to two months and I've made the inclusion of virgin coconut oil (VCO) into my daily intake to supplement my diet. Coconut oil has been used traditionally by the Malaysian Indians in Malaysia as food and cosmetic purpose. Used on hair to provide growth and strength, gargled to check on cavities and used in cooking for that extra flavour. In fact, the list of usage of VCO is not exhaustive enough. My draw to VCO is for the MCT or medium chain triglycerides that are readily synthesised by the liver and used as energy as good as energy produced when eating carbs. The draw here is weight for weight, oil carries double (9kcal vs 4kcal) the energy and you can imagine what a spoonful of (top class)oil holds. MCT does not require energy to absorb, utilisation and storage. What this meant is that they are readily available for the body to utilise above other fuel sources, making it ideal compared to conventional (food) fuel that requires conversion to simple sugar or glucose. 
I was introduced to VCO by the same person that introduced me to Chia Seed (Thank you Roland!) and he has substituted his cooking oil with coconut oil. Back about 4 years ago, the pricing of 1liter of coconut oil is about RM70. Which made it twice the price of good olive oil. Compare to olive oil, coconut oil has high smoking point - meaning it can tolerate higher heat before "smoking" or burn. If you been frying with olive oil, you will know what I meant. Burnt oil or oxidised oil by heat treatment make the oil saturated and potentially carcinogenic (cancerous).
VCO Benefits I've Experience
Keeping it to the point and sharing what I do know, these are some benefits that i've seen after consuming VCO the past months.
- Lipid profile. My bodyfat dropped from 10.5% to 9.8% within the past 1 month of monitoring. Granted that I've been exercising daily, my diet did not change much except the inclusion of the coconut oil (up to two spoon or 30ml) everyday. Technically speaking, I should be putting on weight as the extra calories consumed equals to 270kcal everyday. My weight has increased as well, meaning I've been (technically) packing up some muscle mass. Lipid profile includes cholesterol and blood lipid changes as well. In short, it prevents arteries from clogging up.
- Consistent energy. Putting myself through discipline training as part of Ironman triathlon training has required me to keep my energy/fuel level in-check. For the past 8 weeks, the load and intensity on the training has increased. Taking in MCT helps to encourage the body to utilise fats as energy. There was not a moment i felt a dip and my training are limited by the other commitments I have, not fatigue.
- Anti-inflammatory. Joint pain. Strained muscles. They are things of the past. Apart from being well-conditioned, the joints are good and muscles pain doesn't last more than a day. While I had little or no such issues for the longest time, the inclusion of the VCO sort of act as a buffer or insurance against any possible joint issues - this is of course, unless I purposely go out and injury myself.
- Replaces milk and butter. I now drink my coffee or anything that uses milk with VCO. It adds a subtle coconut flavour, that is unnoticeable after a while. If you can't take coconut oil as it is (from the spoon), best to mix with drinks. Coconut oil has low solidifying temperature. Shake some VCO in ice and you get them solidify and you can chew on the oil like candy.
Other Benefits of VCO, as researched
Too many to list actually and some that has captured my attention were:
- Raises metabolism
- Natural moisturiser
- fight bacteria infections
- aid digestions
- Control sugar cravings
- help to increase absorption of calcium and magnesium
The above are just some that has pique my interest to know more about VCO. 
Hope this help as introduction to VCO as supplement in your daily diet. More to come from me with regards to this food. I have 4liters stocked up and I hope this won't create a craze where the oil will be snapped up, and the price increases!
Here is an interesting Carbohydrate Intolerance experiment done by a friend that went without Carb but included VCO in his diet. He lost weight and fat, and in return, obtained more energy. Thanks Sin YC!

Update Nov 28, 2016 : Check this article by Nutri Inspector's Cindy Wilson on the goodness of VCO. She offered a more in-depth and updated write up compared to my 2014 entry. Thanks Cindy!

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Skechers GoMeb Speed 2 LE Unboxing

Skechers GoMeb or GoSpeed was reviewed by me before. I wrote extensively in the Unboxing entry as it was unlike any other Skechers that was shared with me. To start with, it was stiffer and more responsive due to the Carbon-fiber stability plate. I've ran many races since using the first iteration of GoSpeed. I've completed the SCKLM 2013 42km in it. No question that this shoe, despite the "racer" profile, are made for longer runs requiring a bit more cushioning. 

GoSpeed on me. GoRun2 on wifey. Photo Credit Tey Eng Tiong

Limited Edition GoMeb Speed 2
2 Weeks ago, I was called to the Skechers Malaysia HQ. I was told that there are only 5000 produced for worldwide distribution with 40 in Asia. I am 1 of the 5 (that I know) having this in Malaysia. Being Limited Edition it meant this is a "one off" and not meant to be sold in store. I considered myself lucky. Until today, I've not used the shoe for a run,

New York, New York!

I know the other 4-recipients has tested them and one has given his feedback (link at the end of this blog entry). However, none of them so far has written about the unboxing, which has sort of given me the "escape route" to do so, while maintaining the shoe to be clean and for storage. Will I ever take this out for a run or two? Perhaps. Here is the unboxing review.

Speed 2. 

Interestingly, this edition is also known as Skechers GoMeb Speed 2 New York - as it was made for Meb for the 2013 New York Marathon and in gold, grey and black to match his race day kit. 

From Sneaker Report Top 15 shoes in NYC Marathon

Meb Keflezighi (or Meb for short) has been putting in his input as wearer-tester in a few other models as well (some may see it emerging in the local Skechers' store). Skechers Performance Division has been churning out new shoes and updates so fast that I have to clock in more mileage just to try them all out.

Go Like Never Before

 First look at the shoe close up and I had the urge to wear them and go for a run (at Skecher's HQ). It was an update from the original GoMeb where the material on the upper part has been totally changed. Technical wise, there isn't much differences in terms of ride height (or drop) at 4mm, Resalyte sole (memory foams), GoImpulse sensors at the sole and M-Strike for that unmistakable landing feel. 

To Wear or Not To Wear - That is a 500km question

More similarity is the non-removable insole that is glued down, the suede inner that is smooth and nice allowing the shoe to be worn sockless, the tongue of the shoe that is not sewn down, and the cup, which has more structure and does not collapse (can be compressed by 25% max). Much of these has been covered in the GoMeb Speed unboxing previously. No surprises here. 

Limited Edition printed on the insole

The Upgrades
Most noticeable differences is the top material used in GoMeb Speed 2. It is more breathable (not as if the previous wasn't airy) and will provide a breezier feel. The synthetic rubber like material used in GoMeb Speed carries over minus the suede part on the outer side. Sleeker in look while maintaining the same support and compression. 

Multi-movement mesh like material. Thinner and stronger. 

The tongue has the word "Speed 2" embossed much like what Skechers did with GoRun3 (with a big 3). Noticed that the fonts used to be the same and this could be the direction of marketing/identity that Skechers will try to create now. Unlike the other GoRun series, or even the GoMeb Speed, the GoMeb Speed 2 has GOmeb instead of GoRun(S) on the tongue.

Notice the differences between the GoMeb Speed and GoMeb Speed 2

Speaking of tongue, the Speed 2 see ribbed constructions which allow for thinner tongue while providing adequate cushioning for the top of the feet. It is also larger, which meant it wraps around the top of the foot more. I do not know what benefit this will bring at this point of time.

Note the "wing-like" tongue on Speed 2 vs the usual tongue on Speed

In appearance, the Speed 2 is cleaner in design with less clutter on the upper part. If you noticed, the lacing dynamic has became simpler with less notches when compared to Speed. I know the other 4-recipients has commented on the laces getting loose after a run. It could be the smoother finish on the lace. I do not have issues with lacing as I always double back (double rabbit-ear) and it's bomb-proof. Not literally, but you know what I meant.

Notice the lacing holes

Matter of Sole
The sole does not show any differences with the Speed. I was told by Skechers Malaysia HQ that the Carbon Fiber plate, which is actually material from DuPont (Fiber, likely Kevlar Fiber), lightweight and strong as it's designed to function. The biggest differences in the Speed 2 "Carbon Fiber" is that the insert is now more flexible. I did the bend test and indeed (but not able to exhibit in video without proper weight system to show what force needed before it bends), the Speed 2 is easier to bend compared to Speed. 

Hi-tech stuff in a racing shoe

Honestly, I've ran on Speed and the "stiffness" does not bothers me as much as the "flexibility" of other GoRun series amused me. In short, it serves their design purpose and what they intend to do - propels you forward and protect the feet while allowing you to enjoy the run. Some may like them stiffer, some more cushioned. There is no right or wrong feel, just preferences. 

Closer look at the carbon-fiber or DuPont insert. Similar looking to Speed.

No differences spotted on the GoImpulse sole design or layout. Skechers stick to what has been working in their line of Go-series and Resalyte memory foam complement the whole setup. One caution on Skechers shoe with Resalyte foams - it is potentially not suitable if you are a heavier person, as the memory foam will sink lower than intended and you will lose the percieved cushioning. For that purpose, the GoRunRide (keyword : RIDE) provides thicker outsole to counter these additional weight). Along the same line, GoBionic has minimal cushioning to allow the minimalist feel. GoMeb Speed and Speed 2 are built to be intermediate between GoBionicRide and GoRun2 cushioning.  

Synthetic rubber material reinforces the toebox area against use abrasion and lend structures

Gram-Granny
Weight wise, the Speed2 comes in at 220grams per side. Similar to Speed. The update on material and subtle changes did not reduce the weight of the shoe (at Size US11). I was hoping it will drop to sub-200grams. I've been spoilt by Skechers when it comes to shoe weight that even the structured protective GoBionicTrail at 250grams/side! Perhaps, if the sockliner is removable it will be close to 200grams. 

Love how the Gold reflects the light

Speed 2 coming in clean at 220grams/side

To confirm Speed at 220grams/side after months of usage or close to 300km

Fitting

Meb has narrow feet, which is why most I know that uses Speed go 1-size up due to the tighter toebox.  

Side by Side comparison

Cutting of both Speed and Speed 2 shows no differences. Still narrow upfront and not an issue as my feet has used to the feel already. 

Speed 2 with more structured back compared to Speed

Fitting comparison without the toes splayed

 Take note of the photo above and below, which show my toes spreading out (below) and normal (above).

Notice my toes position and the other toes pressing up against the material

From the front, you can see how they both compares. Noting that the Speed 2 looked like it sits lower at the front - which could likely be the case as I did felt the sole to be thinner at the front of Speed 2 compared to Speed.

Don't wait for my 3rd Leg

Rear-view

This is how Skechers encourages midfoot strikes by having the rear/heel to be higher. This way, you will not hit the heel upon landing and help to transition your running to mid-foot strike. If you wear a Skechers and see more wear at the heel than midfoot, it is time to unlearn your running 120% and start back slowly while correcting your landing and gait again. 

Looked fast even when not moving

After writing this for the past hours, I now have the urge to use the shoe for a run (a test run), Refraining much as I do want to maintain this unit as clean as possible, or I have a choice of making this even more limited by running it on my own personal strides and gait. Perhaps clock a few personal best with it and then frame it up? If you can't wait for my run review of this Speed 2, head over to Nick Arthur's http://happiefeet.blogspot.com/2014/02/skechers-gomeb-speed-2-initial-review.html. Once you are done, head over to Jamie Pang's http://www.jamiepang.com/blog/?p=5885

Note: This pair of Skechers GoMeb Speed 2 New York Limited Edition is sponsored by Skechers Malaysia via collaboration with 2ndSkin Asia Athletes program. Thank you Skechers Malaysia and 2ndSkin! This pair is not for sale or will be made available in Stores. The launch of the GoMeb Speed 2 will be very soon and will be expected to be priced similar to the GoMeb Speed. Stay tuned for more updates soon.

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Xterra Malaysia : Teasers Event Update

I know many are anxious about the event happening this coming weekend and the race team has sent out an email to all participants as of today. It may land in your SPAM mails and do check it if you did not receive it. If it is NOT in your SPAM mail, please email : vince@tagteam.my and cc racedirector@xterramy.com

I am not involved as the race organisers or team but I do what it may take ore required to help propagate and inform everyone if any updates came through my channel. 

The Race Director's email as follow. See you all in T-6 days. 

Get Ready To Get Dirty.

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Dear Participants

Re: The Forthcoming "XTERRA" Teaser Event − 8 & 9 February 2014

As promised we are now pleased to advise you of the important information needed to collect your race pack for this event.

Location for Collection: Race HQ at 1st Floor in Kompleks Sukan Air, Precinct 6, Putrajaya

Directions: GPS Coordinates 2.901288, 101.667285 or https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=201422908130323175684.0004f116537d7ec96030e

Time of Collection: Saturday 8th Feb - 1:00pm to 6:00pm and Sunday 9th Feb - 4:30am until 6:00am

Important Points of Note:

As well as your IC and a copy of your Confirmation E-Mail if you are doing any event other than the 5.5km fun run/hike you will also need to bring your wallet as we will require a RM50 deposit from you before we release your race bib to you. This is in case you lose or mislay your timing chip. This will be immediately returned after your race as we'll have a dedicated team located at the finish area to do this so please look out for them if they have not grabbed you first and thrust your RM50 into your hand.

2.      This will not be necessary for those doing the 5.5km Fun Run/Hike as this is a non-competitive category and therefore not a timed event

3.      If you registered after (please insert the actual date) when the cut off for T-Shirt production was made your pack will have the standard rather than a personalized size and there is a strict no exchange policy.

4.      As well as this personal note the website and Facebook page will have important information relating to the event posted on it between now and race day. Please therefore take time to visit both between now and race day to ensure you understand the course, the start times, the cut off times and facilities at Komplek Sukan Air and elsewhere on the course.

5.      If you want to pick up a race bib for someone else you'll not only need more cash, you'll also need a copy of their IC, their confirmation email and letter from them authorising you to collect their race pack for them. If you want someone to pick up yours you'll need to give them all of the above.

We're really looking forward to welcoming you formally at the event. However, if you have any questions relating to this note or any of the other information we'll be posting on the website and Facebook over the next few days, please write to me at racedirector@xterramy.com.

Many thanks for your support.

Warmest wishes
Dave
Race Director
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Course Update:
Head over to this website here for the Trail and Championship MTB trails!
http://www.xterramy.com/index.php?page=routes

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