Took part in the MR25 Ultra Marathon over the weekend. It was when I was introduced to the multitude of garang human beings I've always knew existed in Singapore but never seen. And honestly, to see is to believe. They are people at the very peak of physical condition. No Standard Chartered Marathon posers here. Make no mistake, these people are the real deal and can put almost all 50,000 Standard Chartered Marathon runners to shame.
Being around them is a surreal experience in itself. When you are surrounded by greatness, you are forced to match them at their level. Unfortunately, I bombed, and I bombed hard. These people are what they are through much sacrifice and training. There is no way you can come amongst them without training and expect to hang. Alas, my first foray into trail running/ultra marathon wasn't as rosy as I had hope, but the experience was bountiful, and the lessons learnt, immense.
I barely made the half marathon, completing it in 2hrs 30mins. However, I have learnt that running on flat ground is childs' play compared to running in the wilderness. A lot more awareness is needed, and a lot more stamina too. Despite the failure I have realised that – this is something that I want to conquer. I know I can do it with adequate training. The Standard Chartered marathon has been milked pass its worth. It has become (for lack of a better description) a national past time. This is a real challenge, and I'm coming back for it next year.
Screw SCSM, this is much more worthwhile.
go go honey bear! Rolll! (: muahs!
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