I just finished my longest run ever… tik takBo 18k. We’ll, to most, it’s not that long but I found it challenging. The route was repeated almost 4 times and it kinda got really boring. Secondly, it was hot… I wish the race started earlier, like 5:30 am instead of 6am (actually, it was later since the race did not start on time). Third, I wish there were more water stations and with cold or cooler water instead of water a troom temperature.

My new dri fit running socks did their trick. My feet were kept dry and when I felt my feet getting wet, the socks snug to my feet, preventing me from forming blisters again.

I wasn’t able to get my time. Someone told me I came in around 1hour 40 minutes but I doubt its accuracy. I really need to get myself a new watch. TImex would do but I’m still wishing for a Garmin so that I can also measure my distance.

Speaking of gear, I recall this email conversation I had with other runners. At first it was hilarious, but then I now realize the wisdom behind the wise-cracks.

Passion Runner:

“Hi everyone!

I’m just curious. What running gear/equipment can I get that isn’t that expensive. I’ve heard and read about the Garmin Forerunner but it’s expensive at around $300. The Nike+ apparel where you have a sensor and a receiver that you connect to your ipod, well… works only with Nike. And if you’re a person who changes shoes every time he runs, that’s gonna be a problem. I’d want to be able to monitor my mileage and pace at the same time. Heat Rate would be a bonus, but not a necessity.

Unless there are people out there who want to sell their garmins Hehe

ERIC”

Andrew

drew”

Now… Andrew is a successful lawyer based in New York and I didn’t believe a word of what he said… Priority are shorts, shirt, then with a little more money, shoes, followed by socks. He’s a crazy fellow, this Andrew, but reading his email once more, it makes sense… and I think I unwittingly followed his advice. I first bought myself a pair of running shorts, the short skimpy kind… hehe! After that, I got myself some dri-fit socks. His advice, though seemingly in jest, was actually helpful. After I got my race/running shorts, it was so much easier for me to run at a faster pace. With my new dri-fit socks, I got to run a lot faster too without worrying about blisters.

But I think I now have to invest on a Garmin. I need a way to measure my pace and maintain it. I also need to measure my distances. Garmin… just wait for me, I’m coming to get you! hehe!