Part of the Statistic

It has almost been a month since I started writing the article below for this blog. I was writing about how I was feeling about the turn of events. But as more information came in how COVID19 was turning the lives of people and economies of the whole world I felt a pang of guilt. My feelings of being inconvenienced from my usual schedule and sadness of being laid off is nothing compared to the feelings of all the frontliners: healthcare workers & its supply-chain workers, military, volunteers, and food-chain supply workers. My feelings are nothing compared to the families of those who lost loved ones. My feelings are nothing compared to those who are currently battling COVID19, not knowing if they will survive. My feelings are nothing compared to those people who are on the streets and are exposed to the disease. My feelings are nothing compared to those who do not have access to healthcare, to stimulus, to transportation and to food.

For the many days, I knew someone who lost someone. Until one day as I woke up condolences where being posted for a long time friend. We called him Tata which is short for Tatay the Filipino word for father. I immediately messaged my friend in the Philippines who like me were spoiled by Tata. We reminisced mountain adventures together where Tata happily drove us to our destinations. I had been telling myself that my feelings were nothing compared to what others were going through. But this time because of Tata's passing, I allowed me to grieve. Don't let anyone tell his girlfriend, his family, friends or me he is in a better place now or to think positive. Let us grieve. Respect the grieving. 

Sometime 1994, I was crying my heart out and wondering why God had forgotten me. In the faintest whisper of the wind, I heard these words; "Look around you Eve, don't I show you these beautiful sights?". For there I was on a Skorpios Cruise ship, sailing thru the Chilean Fjords towards the 30,000 year old San Rafael Glacier. My life did not turn around magically, but how I viewed life certainly did.It is also the reason I enjoy the outdoors. It brings me back to that time when I connected with the almighty. The reason why on a bike ride my 3 hour activity records 1.5 hour moving time because I spend so much time stopping taking a picture of yet another wildflower, or trying to capture a photo of another bird. Taking time to enjoy the sights and sound of the scenery. I am thankful for the parks that are still open and after many hours of reflection I am able to share the story below. This is just one story, of the many stories of how COVID19 has impacted the whole world.

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On the 1^st week of March activities were ramping up in the preparation of the big event in the hotel I worked for. As Chair of the Marketing Committee of our local travel association I was able to secure the March Membership meeting to be hosted in our “just out of a $40 million renovation hotel”. It was going to be an amazing event with the CEO of Visit California as the main speaker. A welcome video message from our hotel group CEO was being prepared. Our global sales team was arriving from out of state to grace the event. I was also getting calls from travel marketers (TMCs) who were making hotel reservations to stay overnight to attend the event. I had all my marketing materials ready: collateral, giveaways, free stay and restaurant certificates.

On mid-afternoon March 6^th, I got the email that the Santa Clara County was disallowing gatherings of 1,000 or more. Although, the membership meeting would only be 130 guaranteed guests, it was thought prudent by the travel board to postpone the event in the interest of the safety of all. I immediately informed my Director of Sales and my General Manager and before I could reach the door of his office, I heard my GM summon me. My GM shaking his head, instructed me to inform our corporate office and hold-off all preparations.

I got calls and emails from the travel/hospitality community stating their sadness over the cancellation of the event. COVID19 as it is now known has been in the news. But the Santa Clara County’s announcement and the subsequent cancellation of the event made us realize how close it was to home. I guess we thought we can all still function in front of all the challenges related to COVID19.

I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my sense put in order.
John Burroughs

I felt a cloud of sadness hung over me. My mind went into overdrive. People are going to lose their jobs! And for how long? I was going to Point Reyes and backpack to Coast Camp, knowing this lightened up my spirits. I’ve always mentioned that “Jesus prayed outside”. Among articles I have read on this, this article seem to cover it (Click on the link): Where Jesus Prayed . I focused on the beauty around me; taking photos of the flowers and buds signaling spring is here. I focused on the wide expanse of beautiful, serene scenery. I simply enjoy walking into a forest, hiking up an elevation and camping out near the ocean. Watching the sunset fascinated by its colors while the crashing of the ocean waves into the shore is music to my ears. I was alone watching the sunset, as the group opted to stay at the campsite for happy hour. It was bliss being able to enjoy the sunset in solitude.

Monday – March 9^th I was back at work. I was hearing from my clients that they were going to work remote. Wednesday – March 11^th I was speaking to a group of European in-house guests while they were having breakfast. That day the US announced barring entry of all foreign nationals from China, Iran and a group of European countries. I was still hopeful as I had a long term-guest arriving for a 2-week stay.

“Every sunset brings the promise of a new dawn.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Friday – March 13^th, we issued an invite for cocktails on April 2nd, a mini-version of our postponed grand event. Surely, this will be all over by April. I had positive response on the invite. Once again, got people to look forward to something positive. I was also arranging an amenity for a very supportive client who is going to our sister hotel in Missouri. She was attending the Pokemon Convention, how fun!

Monday March 16^th, the shelter-in-place warning was issued. I had to retract the invite that I had just sent out for April 2^nd.  The Pokemon convention was also cancelled but at this point all events all over the area have been cancelled. In the sales office it was all quiet. By Tuesday – March 17^th, our buffet breakfast was suspended. By Wednesday – March 18^th, we got the announcement of reduction to 4-day weeks. For the moment we are safe, for how long remains to be seen. Other hotels have shut-down and employees laid-off including our sister 5-star hotel in downtown San Francisco. Laying-off workers is acceptable as the workers can apply for unemployment insurance. Thursday – March 19^th, I filed my sick leave for Friday – March 20^th, as a recovery of the wage lost.

“If you want to be reminded of the love of the Lord, just watch the sunrise.”
― Jeannette Walls

Friday – March 20^th my phone alarm woke me up. But it was so cold at 38F that I did not feel like getting up. I call this mind over mattress. Debating whether I should get back and hit the Mission Peak trail or stay in. I enjoy hiking Mission Peak to watch the sunrise or the sunset. One trailhead is 11 miles from my home. This trail is 5.8 miles roundtrip and rated as difficult with an elevation gain of 2,135 feet. Once at the peak it provides a 360 view and on a good day you can see as far as the Dumbarton Bridge and the waters of the wildlife refuge and the other side provides a view of the Ohlone Wilderness and other regional parks that connect to it. My best time is 2.5 hours on a wide trail that is heavily trafficked. More reason that I prefer sunrise or sunset because there are less hikers at that time.

My mind prevailed and I needed to keep moving and get my endorphins going. I enjoy the outdoors. Being outdoors leads me to meditation and prayer. Wasn’t it in Chile amongst the icebergs that I heard God speak? It also makes me appreciate the simplest of beauty as a poppy flower’s orange color further illuminated by the rays of the rising sun. It was still dark when I started my hike, and I heard coyote calls. But knowing that there were other hikers calmed me down a bit. It was cold but no wind and that helped a lot. I was well suited for the cold hike with 2 layers of clothing, a microfiber vest, a down vest and a rain jacket. I walk this trail without a light even in a dimmest of light of the moon. Once you reach the first bench the brightness of the city lights illumines the trail. By 7:04 I had passed the trail crossing from the Ohlone side saying, “Hi to a few cows”. The orange hues of the sun peeking out from the mountain range beyond. At 1900 feet, the fifth bench I paused briefly to marvel at the peak before me. Final push to the summit, the hardest part but amazed at the kaleidoscope of colors amidst the beautiful green scenery and shadows of other hikers. Psalm 121: 1-2, 1 I lift my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.

“If you carry joy in your heart, you can heal any moment.” Carlos Santana

At the summit, I found my rock, where I sat and held onto my thermos. Thankful to be here. What a blessing to live near a mountain. Fr. Leo Buscaglia was given flowers and a gigantic chocolate cake with a note after his father’s death, it read; “This is just to remind you there are still beautiful things (to see) and good things to eat”.  COVID19; How long will it be around? How many people will be affected? How are we going to support ourselves? I have talked to colleagues in the industry and everything is grim. There is not much we can do.  But there are still beautiful things (to see) and good things to eat.

There is not much we can do but ride in the storm of life. Let us do our part and listen to our 
earthly leaders. At the same time holding on to the promises of our Divine Father - + Psalm 46:10 He says, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." + Exodus 14:14 The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still. ... + Psalm 62:5 For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him.

Thursday - March 26th At 9 AM I was on the phone calling my clients, wishing everyone well. I was getting updates from them to hear t he status of their business and prognosis on the effect of COVID19. Sad to hear about friends being laid off and furloughed. Then the inevitable happened. Our Director of Sales and our General Manager tried so hard to keep us running. We knew it. All their closed door  meetings and conference calls with our corporate office. 

“The secret to a good morning is to watch the sunrise with an open heart.”
― Anthony T. Hincks

Today we were told that we were going to close the hotel. We were all understanding of the situation but our hearts were broken. But for the long-term viability of the hotel we had to shutdown. We were given all that was due us. We help shutdown the hotel. In a way, we got to know every inch of the hotel we would not have otherwise known. 

We are now officially laid off. This way we could apply for our unemployment insurance. I called my clients to update them on the news.  Other hotels have shutdown earlier than we did. Our own shutdown, though not surprising was unwelcome news.  

I am thankful for our bosses who tried their best to keep us open but without any guests coming in it certainly did not make financial sense to stay open. I am thankful for those who immediately went on LinkedIn to write me recommendations. I am thankful for the provisions until we get back to work. What are my  plans? Only God knows. Proverbs 16:9 - A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.

 Related articles:
Productivity is not working by Laurie Penny
Anderson Cooper of 60 minutes Addressing the strain the coronavirus has put on America's food supply chain with Jose Andres

The Lord is my Shepherd

Psalm 23 King James Version (KJV)

23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

² He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
³ He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

 

  I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. ⁵ Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

 ⁶ Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

King James Version (KJV)Public Domain

 

Noone Gets Left Behind

I enjoy backpacking and hiking. I have been enjoying this sport for three decades. Nothing like being outdoors and enjoying mother nature. It’s a time of reflection for me, too. A time to marvel God’s creation.

I was on my last semester of my Quality Management Master’s. I was thinking of how I can keep my outdoor life and finish my Capstone project. Hiking takes a full day and backpacking at minimum is an overnight. Then it dawned on me that running could be an option. An hour’s run and you are done. I had just completed a half-marathon training and I was moving on to the next goal of running a marathon. I searched for groups in Sacramento and found Trail Running Adventures (TRA). I met the leader Carina and Hassan and the rest of the TRA members. We also crossed over being members with the other running groups in the area. Since it was winter my non-runner friends would ask, “Is it not cold?”. My reply would be, “That’s what jackets are made for.”.


While I was preparing for a marathon, TRA friends were busy preparing for ULTRAs, i.e. 50-mile to 100-mile races. I just kept signing up for the practice runs, showed – up and I was not into details. Until one day, as part of the training for AR50 (American River 50-miler), they had scheduled a training run from Beale’s Point to Auburn Dam Overlook (ADO). It would be a total of 25 miles and the last 3 miles would be all uphill to the overlook. At 16 miles I was ready to call it quits. I wanted to join Carina as she was being picked up by her husband due to an injury. To my surprise the rest of our team where waiting just ahead, so I was encouraged to finish the run with them. Off we went for the next 9 miles. I did struggle and more so on the last 3 miles. But there was nothing else to do but walk up to the overlook since it was the only way out. I even got lost on the way to the parking lot. Getting lost seems to happen when I am about just tired and ready to throw in the towel. They finally found me on the road and congratulated me for my longest run ever of 25miles. My reply was, not right now because I am not feeling it.

But as I got home and cleaned-up I felt good. I always thought that running was a single person sport,7 I was to learn that it was not. I like the idea that TRA motto is “No one gets left behind”. All the encouragement that they gave me boosted my spirits. They all had the patience of a saint. Trail Running Adventures was not just a group of outdoor runners. We are a community with a shared love of outdoor running, helping each other train, coaching & encouraging each other, having fun and no one gets left behind. We join races as a challenge and to be with other running communities.

I thought about the training and I thought about the race itself. I think the principles employed and these elements are something we could use in building teams.

1)     The leader or leaders: They organize the runs; the distance, where to run, route, time we should meet, assigning of leaders and sweepers.

2)     The training; on distance, pace, tempo, and taper.

3)     There is coaching and sharing of ideas. I learned how to fuel and hydrate. I learned about tempo and pacing. I learned about Strava and Garmins.

4)     There is natural grouping base on your pace and the stronger ones even act as sweepers. To provide encouragement and motivation to those who lag.

5)     During the race itself, there are Aid stations where runners can hydrate, fuel, even apply muscle ointments. Also, at the aid stations you find they cheer you on and give encouragement. There’s also medical aid station.

6)     Then there are pacers; For marathons, the pacers are assigned by the organizers. They carry a sign and run a certain pace and helps a runner keep a finish time. I usually keep up with the pacer at the middle of the pack and I drop off behind as the run progresses. For ultra-running, this is a different take. The pacers are assigned by the runner. According to Corey Buhay in his REI article “For the uninitiated, “pacing” is the act of tailing a runner to help them stick to their race plan, stay positive, and follow the marked trail. A competing runner typically has several pacers who take turns throughout the race. Pacesetting is but one element of crewing, which delineates the full package of racer care, including prepping food and gear, cheerleading, and tending to the racer’s medical (and emotional) needs at aid stations.

7)     Then there is the runner, like me. I make sure that for any run, training or race. I make sure that I have slept well, ate healthy, prepared my gear and my mental state. Preparation helps one’s mental state.

8)     The Spectators who cheer, wave, and at times when you need it most offer to help. During the Rocklin Half-marathon (13.1 miles), it became very warm at the 10th mile. I was looking confused and tired I think when a couple who were in front of their house asked me “What do you need? Tell me?”. I replied “Water, I just need some water”. She rushed to their garage and brought out bottles of water. I do not know who she was, I won’t remember where she lived but I will always remember her help when I needed it most.

9)     The finish line: the last few steps when you find yourself with that last bit of energy. Where the noise, cheers and sight of the announcer, spectators, cameramen, your loved ones help you cross the line.

10) The fun! Lots of stops to take photos. Enjoying a water-crossing or a waterfall. The best part with Trail Running Adventures is I started the race with friends. I finished the race with friends. No one got left behind and that is especially important for me!


What I did not find though, there is no constructive criticism. While you are running, you won’t hear
anyone say, “Hey you’d do better if….”. All you hear are Good job. Great going. You are almost there. You got this (my personal favorite). You are doing well. It’s just around the corner. This is the last hill and you are straight home. Food for thought, don’t you think?

11) Finally, the support group. For ultra-runners they have their crew during the race who meet them at race designated areas (usually) the aid stations as explained in #6. When you are so tired that your mind plays tricks on you. They keep you focused, in line and keeps you going. There is also the support group, usually your family those who wait on you as you follow your training schedule, their schedule has to fit around yours. They keep you grounded. They are the ones who meet you at the finish line. When I joined the San Francisco Marathon, a dear friend (and godmother of my son) - Liza flew from the Southern California to be my cheerleader. As I crossed the finish line, almost to the cut-off time I heard the race announcer greet me and announce my city. Then I heard my name again, amidst my tiredness and that everything seem to be in a haze. It was Liza in-between us were several barricades. Somehow, she found her way to me. I declined to attend the after race funfare. Liza took charge booking a ride-share. Take note that there were 30,000 runners plus spectators trying to get out of the area. The hotel we were staying was just a few blocks away but after 26.2 miles I was not about to walk a few more blocks. As I sat on the pavement too tired to stand, I asked Liza, "Why do people do this?". Liza laughed and asked , "You tell me! Why do you do this?". I was at a lost for words but so glad to have Liza.

If we can only apply these running elements and principles to our teams and if our motto is no one gets left behind - Definitely, WE WILL ALL WIN!

41st San Francisco Marathon; D' Day

My 1st Marathon - The Final Push

Almost there! After an 18-mile hike at Strawberry with an elevation gain of 3,500 ft., starting from 5,500 ft. asl. It was taper time. I joined Stephanie’s birthday celebration with a 7-mile run on July 21^st, starting from the top of Stagecoach, via the Manzanita Trail down to No Hands Bridge led by Chris. After which I raced back to Melissa’s to shower, pick-up my stuff and move to Fremont to start a job on Monday – July 23^rd. What a hectic schedule but I was thankful to finally have a job and with very good prospects of growth and learning.

I settled in quite quickly, my housemates are a cool group of millennials. It was my first time since moving to the USA that I would experience having to go thru rush hour to/from work. The commute is not too bad though for me, just 17 miles to work it takes me 22 minutes in the morning and in the afternoon from 30-42 minutes. On the Tuesday – July 24^th, after work I ran with Army Reserve Sergeant Fahad and we were quite impressed that we were fast even with the heat. It was too soon to celebrate because the next day my body and head were aching due to an oncoming cold. Lia gave me her box of Tylenol for severe cold and flu that put me to sleep right away. There were no more practice runs for me and I had this fear of not being well enough to race. I harvested lemons from the tree in the backyard, drank tea with honey & lemon and was taking 1500mgs of vit. C daily.

My boss Philip had sent me home early Friday afternoon as I was falling asleep so tired while he talked to me, I was feeling that bad. That night, I called Liza and assured here that, “Come hell or high water I would race.” And she said she figured as much. She commented that I really sounded congested, but I was not one to quit. Then searching through my luggage, I found a box of herbal tea from Sri Lanka named “Samahan” given by Jazz and Xenia. I have heard rave reviews about it and thought it was worth a try. At this point anything was worth trying. I had slept early all week and very soundly due to the medicine I was taking. Tonight, was not different I wanted to be well by tomorrow!

I woke up feeling much better, happy that the Sri Lankan herbal tea worked or was it the combination of all the remedies that I had sought? I woke up early to prepare and was on my way to San Francisco by 8:15am. I had planned to go to the Race Expo early, collect my bib and meet Liza at the Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel at Geary in downtown San Francisco. I parked my car at the Fremont Bart station, as it is free to park there (even overnight) during weekends. Then I took the Bart and got off at the Embarcadero station which was a big mistake because the race expo was in Fort Mason, sigh! It was a total of 4.2 miles from Embarcadero Station to Fort Mason and to the Clift, it was enough of a shake up run as preparation for tomorrow. I was so tired that Liza even was in the hotel ahead of me. We were happy to be able to check-in early with the help of Heather at the front desk. Our room was very nice with 2 very comfortable beds with fluffy pillows, a sitting area, huge tv, a full mini-bar and a host of nice appointments. The bathroom was well appointed too with very impressive toiletries. This hotel was surely one of San Francisco’s best kept secrets.

Liza discovered a Filipino eatery by the side rode from the hotel, another must try in the heart of the city! We had crispy fried pork belly with rice. They also gave us a sample of their chicken sisig which is served in a sizzling plate. We went back to the Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel to rest before going out again for happy hour across the hotel in a tapas bar called Bota. We each had a drink and shared a cheese sampler. I was trying to be as calm as possible and I felt much better.

The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel

Back at the hotel I prepared all my gear for tomorrow’s race and I just have a hard time trying to run light. It was going to be a very early wake up call, that I set-up my alarm at 3 am. This early schedule will give me enough time to eat, settle my stomach and have a leisurely 1.2 mile walk to my Corral G at the corner of Embarcadero and Folsom Streets. From the hotel, I walked down Geary, turned left on Market Street, down towards Embarcadero and right turn to find my way to the corner of Folsom Street. The police and other event volunteers were already on site and barricades had been set-up for the race start. It was a little windy with the temperature at a very pleasant 54F.

Before I slept, I had entered in my cellphone alarm the expected times I should be at the mile markers. At the Expo they were giving away this information, in the form of a paper band that could be worn. It was hard to compute at that time, hence I estimated the times and entered them in my cellphone alarm.

It was hard to decide what to bring to the race. I checked the weather and ditched the wind breaker, beanie hat, and draw string bag. I bought a belt carrier that had my food bars, cellphone and ID. I need an ID just in case of emergency. At the back of my bib was Liza’s contact number as well.

The Race

I was feeling good and strong this morning, but I was nervous. I kept asking myself; Am I ready? Did I prepare enough? Will I even finish this race? Athletes were just chatting away, I was listening to their stories. Others were like me nervous on their first try. Others I heard this was their NTH marathon. It was a friendly and warm crowd. The Bay Bridge looked so pretty with its lights against the night sky.

The athletes were divided in groups according to the expected time of finish. The elites and seeded athletes were to start first, and it would take them lest than three hours to finish the 26.2 miles. I expect to finish closer to 6 hours. Yes, twice length of the time that the elites were expected to finish. I just aim to finish the race before the cut-off time.

At the line, I was standing beside the two lady pacers that had the sign 4:55 which is they will hold the pace at an average of 11 minutes and 11 seconds to finish the 26.2 miles in 4 hours and 55 minutes. My projection to finish was 5 hours and 30 minutes. Months ago, Brian chided me on this asking if I planned to go shopping instead of racing.

The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel with Liza

 The hardest challenge for me in my training was switching from a hiking mode to running. I had been a backpacker / hiker for almost 3o years that it’s hard to just switch away from that habit. During my training runs, I never really pushed my self to be faster. I just hope that my strategy in training in the mountain trails and elevation will give have prepared me for the San Francisco city marathon.

In a measure of caution not everyone racing this year’s marathon will be going across the San Francisco bridge. The half-marathoners (1^st & 2^nd half) would not be going on the bridge, but under it. The Ultra runners, those who signed up for the 2x the distance of the marathon started the race at 12 midnight.

The race starts were sounded by the Champion Cable Car Bell ringer – Ryan Cobb. I felt giddy myself, but I kept my focused to finish this race. I was glad that it was going to be cloudy and windy because I prefer to run when it is cold and perhaps the gloomy weather will deter me to take pictures. I cannot waste any time and I decided there were other times I could take pictures of this beautiful city as I had done many times before. I also signed up for the official photographs and hope that I catch the eye of the photographers.

It was a strong start for me, I kept up with pacers 4:55 we had a small group who kept up with them. Running past the Embarcadero, Pier 45, on Marina Boulevard, on Old Mason Street, past the Golden Gate Promenade where I saw a few athletes stop for a photo. By mile 5.5 we were on the hilly road going up towards the Golden Gate bridge. I was hoping the pacers would slow down but they did not. Their strategy was to gain ground and slow down later. By mile 6, I could only see the markers of the pacers as they disappeared around the corner stepping on the Golden Gate bridge. While I huffed and puffed my way and as soon as I stepped on the bridge, I tried to run faster to catch up with them. But my heart was beyond the beats where it should be, I was catching my breath and the pounding on my head was excruciating. I still have not gotten a Garmin watch, that measures the heartbeat, pace and all those wonderful stats that is needed. I was just going by feeling, and I knew I had to slow down. I alternated running and walking and envied those who stopped and took a picture on the Golden Gate. I welcomed the chilly, cloudy, gray weather this day. Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge is an adventure all on its own and I will always feel the excitement as a privileged runner. I turned right on the Vista Point Park, on towards the backside and went down the dirt trail under the bridge. Coming out the other side and climbing towards the other side of the bridge and turn around point of the full marathon runners. As a security caution and to lessen the runner traffic on the bridge, the half-marathoners were not crossing the Golden Gate Bridge.

Between mile 11 and 12 we covered the stretch of Baker Beach and turned left on 27^th Street. I could feel myself getting tired. I wondered what the distance between me and the next pacer behind (5:25). We entered the Golden Gate Park at Mile 14 running on JFK Drive. After approximately 1.5 miles it was a left turn to MLK Drive and a slight left to Middle Drive West. I loved going through the Golden Gate Park with its trees and greenery. I was following an elderly lady who I would catch up on and get left behind. The lady was one of those who had an all day paced and just kept at it. She eventually finished way ahead of me. The all-day pace is still something I yet have to master. It was total of 5 miles and 4 aid stations and we were out of the park at mile 19. We were back on the road and sky was clearing and the sun was out. This was going to be a hard 7 miles to the finish as it became warmer but the gusts of wind coming from the ocean brought me so much relief. There were gradual hills and at this point I was walking more than running. I would rest a while, then pick-up the pace only to slow down again. I noticed other runners were in the same predicament as I was, getting tired and slower as the miles crept on. It helped a lot that there were plenty enough aid stations. I started to use BioFreeze on my thighs and legs. If I can get to my tired feet, I would have done so.

Mile 20, I saw the cheer board and had a message for me. I never found out who greeted me on the board, but it did give me a boost. Pacer 5:25 came up and I struggled hard to keep my pace. This was a red flag for me because the time limit is 6 hours. I noticed that one of the guys who was in my pacing group of 4:55 at race start had dropped behind too! I said hello to him and he gave me a nod. I think he was wearing prosthetics and admired his resolve.

Mile 24, only 2.2 miles left and almost to the finish line. I dug in deep to the very last ounce of strength I had. At aid station 15, the cheers of the volunteers were very encouraging; “You are doing great!” and “You are almost there!”.

I carry on challenges compete with myself. I would ask myself; “Can I do this?”. Now it has turned to, “You have to do this!”. The streets and the boardwalk were busy with Sunday revelers and the AT&T Stadium was busy with folks for the afternoon game.

A few feet from the finish line, I heard the announcer call my name. I crossed that finished line with the last ounce of my strength. I collected my medal. I heard my name being called and looked around. Seeing Liza being there was a very touching experience. I tried to see where I could cross to meet with her. I Saw the BioFreeze photo board and had my picture taken. I also welcomed the warming aluminum sheet being given. Then Liza was in front of me, smiling, congratulating and hugging me. I just wanted to cry. I could not think, and I could not react. But I loved that Liza was there.

Grit, endurance, perseverance….and so many more traits that you build to come to this moment. A year of training, total running miles of 432.70 miles, 20K+- of elevation gain and a whole community of runner friends.

Click the video: The year in training

Click the video: Watch my pace

Three Weeks Until the San Francisco Marathon

I received a message from the race director of TCT Runs inviting me to join the run at Lover’s Leap in Strawberry, California. I messaged two of my running friends who I thought might have a race credit from volunteering with TCT Runs. The I learned from Carina that they still needed volunteers to sweep – i.e. picking up the ribbons/markers. Hassan and Jerry were up to the challenge. I prefer to sweep too because I may not be up to the high elevation run.

***

According to Wikipedia, “Strawberry is a small unincorporated community on the South Fork American River, 3.25 miles (5 km) south-southwest of Pyramid Peak, [2] along U.S. Route 50 in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The sign on the highway reads population 50.

The town became a popular resort in the 1850s, and a station along the Central Overland Pony Express between Yank's Station and Webster's, Sugar Loaf House Station. The site is now registered as California Historical Landmark #707. [3]

Strawberry is also the home of Lovers Leap climbing area. [4]”.

***

Hassan had to beg off from the trip because they were expecting their sons to come visit from the Bay area. Jerry and I chose to sweep the 18 miles because it was the mileage we needed for training this weekend.

We left very early to drive the 77.7 miles via Highway 50 to reach Strawberry, California. As expected at that time and day, the drive was a breeze. We even got to have a good breakfast at the historical 150-year old Strawberry Lodge.

The 50Mile/50K runners started at 5:30 am. While the other distances; 18 miles, 13.1 miles, 9 miles, 10K, 5K, 2 miles started at 8:30 am. We started our sweep at 9:00 am, giving a lead to the runners about 30 minutes.

From the starting line outside the Strawberry Lodge we followed the road to the trail head. Once we hit the trail it was hiking all the way up. I was short of breath because of the elevation. But it surely seemed like it was still spring here. Wildflowers were in full bloom still – lavender, yellow, white. Unlike in the low lands where they had all dried up.

From Strawberry Lodge to Negro Flat aid station was a total of 7.3 miles. Hiking up surrounded by pine trees, wildflowers, crossing many streams. The foliage was very dense at parts, the paths are not well worn. At mile 5.5 the elevation was at 7,800 ft. At mile 6.75 we hiked down to 7,000 ft. before climbing another 100 feet to Negro Flat Aid station. The medic was stationed in this aid area and we got an update from him on the status of the runners. The race course was a loop, so we had been picking up the pink trail markers up to this point.  The 50-mile runners followed the loop to the right going all the way to Caples Creek and would be a total loop of 12.2 miles. As the 50 milers were still in the Caples Creek loop of the course, Jerry and I would not be able to pull the return course loop pink markers. We left the pink ribbons we had gathered at the Negro Flat Aid station and informed the medic to let the race director know that we were completing the 18-mile loop but will not be picking up the pink ribbons so that the runners still out on the course will still have their course markers. Jerry and I re-filled our water bladders with water and ate some good snacks. We also drank sodas, good for the immediate burst of sugar. Soon we were on our way to Buck Pasture a hike of 4 miles, with the highest elevation at 8,100 ft at 2.25 miles. The trail did not have the tree cover and the sun was high up. I could not wait to get to the tree line again. The views of the other peaks were breath-taking. Reaching Buck Pasture after 4 miles it was all going down now. I let gravity do its work as my legs were very heavy because they were very tired. We were startled by a movement in the forest thinking it was a bear, thankfully it turned out to be a deer. 2 miles from Buck Pasture we reached the water stop. There was just a jug of water there. I though if they were leaving a jug of water, would you not leave some snacks please? I laughed at myself. But at this point there was a dirt road and would make it possible to have an aid station here. Anyway, the next aid station is 3.3 miles away from this water station. Tired as I was I was thankful to be back at the tree line. We were on a dirt road now and an ATV passed by followed, another ATV, next a jeep and another ATV.  I was so thankful to reach the Lover’s Leap Aid station and Strawberry Lodge was only 1.1 miles away. There was one Seven-up left and Jerry and I split it. We need that sugar rush now.

My legs, thighs, feet were so tired. My shoes I have concluded were too small for me. My toenails were burying into the front of the shoe specially on the descents. I stopped from time to time psyching myself to keep on going. My body just did not want to move anymore. But there is no other way to return but walk or run if I can conjure the energy to do so. But we were on a dirt road, Jerry can go get his truck and pick me up, it will be faster. Of course, I stayed silent, I needed to focus on the task, less than a mile to go. The last mile always feels like the longest mile. Just like that we were back on the road and even that seemed to take like forever. A female 50-mile runner passed us swiftly with a quick hello. Oh my, I thought she still has so much energy in her. Just like that and she was out of sight. The sight of the bridge gave me a boost and I stopped to take a photo. Finally, we were back at the start/finish line and proceeded to the tent area for some yummy snacks. 18 miles done! Elevation gain 3,500 ft. asl.

For a recovery run, I got up very early again the next day to beat the heat. I had forgotten to post my intention on our group website so for once I am going to run alone. I am quite familiar with the trails from Cavitt Junior High School that I was confident I would not get lost. Ha! I followed our usual 4-mile run which is out and back (OAB). I also did the hill repeat, pushing myself to run up the hill and take a photo on top with a good view of Folsom Lake. I ran 2-loops to make for 8miles, but with the hill repeat I could have done a total of 8.4 miles. That’s is that for this weekend – three weeks before the San Francisco Marathon! Yikes!

Link: Tips to Relax & Re-charge

Link: Strawberry Lodge

Link: Lover's Leap

Donner Lake Elevation and Pavement Training

The temperatures around our area had been averaging in the high 90s for the past days. We scheduled a trip to Donner Lake for high altitude and pavement training. Donner Lake being at the elevation of 5,936’ it was certainly a cooler place to be in the summer. I am thankful to Cindy and Hassan who hosted this training run for my benefit. There were several other training runs scheduled today – June 30^th but we made a good choice of location. Temperature hit a 102F and there were many unhappy runners.

Roadside & lakeside running

Donner Lake is a fresh water lake in the Northeast, California on the Eastern Slope of the Sierra Nevada. It is about 11 miles Northwest of the much larger Lake Tahoe. We parked at the area nearest the entrance to the beach from there we ran on a clockwise direction around the lake. First, we were on pavement until we reached the end of the fence. We turned right and followed the interpretive trails running the side of the lake. This part was shaded with different type of pine trees around the lake. It was heart-warming to see groups of friends and families enjoying the beach and the public piers. It was also very motivating to see such scenery specially as the temperatures got warmer as the morning progress. We went over some hills, running up them for training and catching our breath as we reached the top.

Running on elevation has his challenges with a total ascent of 190 feet and a total elevation of 6,126 ft. asl. Tips from Runners’ World in running in altitude: 1) Include a longer warm up. 2) Run a slower pace. At high elevation with thinner air, you tend to run slower. 3) Get plenty of sleep. 4) Increase your intake of fluids. 5) Avoid alcohol and sodium.

At the first 2 miles, like always I was catching my breath and trying to catch up with the rest. After a couple of miles, I felt stronger and went up ahead from the group. I wish I felt this way most of the time. The last time I felt this strong was at Magnolia Ranch.

After finishing the 1^st 7-mile loop we took a short break to go to the bathrooms, eat chilled watermelon slices, and refilled our water containers. We ran our 2^nd loop in the reverse direction to make it more interesting. Towards the end of the loop we could not help but take pictures. Enjoy!

Movie: The Log at Donner Lake

Link: Donner Memorial State Park

Link: Run Donner Lake

Link: Runner’s World article – Help! I Have to Run atAltitude

Coastal Trail from Rodeo Beach

At the Vista Point

Life sidelined me, not from running though. I continued to run, and it helped conjure positive energy. Training for the San Francisco Marathon is keeping me focused and positive. My writing was sidelined, it was hard to pick up the pen, well actually it was hard to type my thoughts.

I was invited to join a training run by friends getting ready for the Golden Gate (Summer) Trail Run. There is something about the views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate (It is actually red.😊), that inspires me- to walk, to run and now to write again.

Annalisa, Hiromi and I set-out from Sacramento at 6 AM, or was it 7 AM? Anyway, it was early. We car-pooled, and I agreed to drive going to Rodeo Beach because after the run I know I would not be in the condition to drive. It was an easy drive until we got to the tunnel and we tried a different way to get to Rodeo Beach without having to go inside the tunnel. We took a few turns and got on the road on the way to Baker Beach and a wrong turn landed us facing a wire fence with a sign that said, “Keep out”. It had a beautiful vantage point of the Golden Gate Bridge, so I declared that I was going to take a picture while Annalisa and Hiromi worked out the directions. We got back on the road towards the tunnel and took another turn and was on the coastal road passing a Vista Point. Again, I said “I have to take a picture!”. Satisfied and on track we made our way to Rodeo Beach.

At Rodeo Beach, it was very windy, waves splashed hard on the shore, and there was fog (but of course!). After a trip to the ladies’ room and gearing up we were on our way. Our goal was to head out for 6 miles and turnaround for a total of 12 miles. We followed the Coastal Trail, Tennessee Valley Trails and the Miwok Trail. The trails were well-marked but there were a series of turns and could get you lost or run around in circles.

Overlooking Rodeo Beach

The hike started off very friendly and there were many families enjoying the trails and the views even on this very windy day. The trail was dusty and had gravel and was a steady climb and step were made in some parts. Then we took a left up the bunkers and descended on the other side. It happens to me all the time, it takes me a couple of miles to warm up. I often wonder, why each time I go out and run, it feels like the first time. I am out of breath, my heart pounding, and my head feels like it would explode. At this point I would slow down, as if I was not slow already and let the pounding subside. This is the reason that I realized I need that special Garmin watch that had a heart monitor. According to Garmin: The goal is to make you aware when physical or emotional sources cause your stress level to rise so you can find a way to relieve the pressure. It is very important to know this information so as not to hurt our body. I do not have a coach, but I listen to advise and get tips from friends who have run ultras.

I am really slow, so I tell Annalisa and Hiromi to just go ahead at their pace and they waited for me at the junctions. By now I have a history of getting lost 2x that my running friends make sure I don’t anymore. At the same time, I have paid attention to the trails even as I pay attention to my body.

Aside from my 1.5 litter water that I carry in my vest, I also carry 2 8oz Camelbak drinking bottles with Gatorade. My favored protein bar is Think Thin High protein bar with 20gms of protein because it is very tasty and not like a cardboard. I also like Snicker bars and Brach’s’ gummy worms. I have stayed away from dried cranberries or raisins, I really like them, but they make me gassy. For much longer runs, I have carried McDonald’s sausage burritos and peanut butter sandwiches. I switch them up a bit to relieve the boredom of taste.

We reached an area where sections of the trail had wooden planks and reminded me so much of a Japanese Garden. Another reason that slows me down is I take time to admire the scenery and take photos. I also carry a GoPro because nothing beats live video. I used to get teased carrying a GoPro but after friends have seen the videos they appreciate that I took the time to do so.

The Coastal Trail is good training because of the hills where the ascent and descent is definitely good for training. Annalisa and Hiromi waited for me a the 6mile mark on their Garmin and called to me saying “Come on Eve, this is mile 6”. On the return, we ran faster as we had become familiar to the trail. At an area close to the beach, Hiromi waved at me to show the way and I waved back. Then I turned because I saw a photo opportunity and Hiromi followed saying she was worried that I was taking a different trail. She laughed when she saw I was taking pictures. The fog had cleared up some and the view was fantastic.

I love trail running because just like in back packing and hiking I am there for the scenery. I am enjoying God’s creation at the same time keeping me fit. In trail running I get my exercise and enjoy the views in a shorter span of time so I can attend to other responsibilities. I schedule my runs on a weekly basis and reserve my backpacking trips for when I have a longer break from work. Enjoy!

Link: Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy
Link: Marine Headlands Map