Hysan Trail Run - Hong Kong

I can finally call myself a trail runner! 

After running only on paved roads for basically my entire life, the amazing landscape of Hong Kong (and some great new friends) have inspired me to discover the joys of trail racing. I found out about the Hysan Half Marathon and thought it would be the perfect event to test my novice skill level.

Race day morning was pretty typical, with an early alarm and a carb-filled breakfast. When I stepped outside, I was surprised to feel a light rain that was not in the forecast. Normally, this wouldn't be a big problem, but the unpredictable terrain made me nervous about slipping on the rocks and leaves - particularly since I did not get a chance to buy trail running shoes in advance.

The race organizers arranged shuttle buses to the starting line, which was convenient since it was all the way up in the mountains of the New Territories (Tai Lam). The bus ride was really entertaining because people kept yelling at the driver in Cantonese, which I can only assume was because he was getting lost. Eventually, we got to the park where the race was set to begin. I found my group and we quietly prepared ourselves for the race. 

Great representation from the Out in HK group!

The starting line was so different than a typical road race. There were no corrals, no seeding by pace group, and random picnic tables serving as roadblocks. Suddenly we were off, and it was like a free-for-all to get to the road.

Race staging area - including picnic table roadblocks!

Starting line mayhem

I started the race with another friend and we kept a relaxed pace, but still managed to pass quite a few people. Had I known that the entry into the trails would be a bottleneck staircase, I would have probably pushed even faster. Anyhow, the wait was not too long and the first trails were relatively wide. I had never run in this area before, but there were some amazing views from this part of Hong Kong. 

Beautiful views throughout the course

The next section was a steep downhill on a winding road, which allowed us to let gravity do most of the work. By the bottom of the hill, I looked behind me to find my running partner and he was oddly not there. I figured we would not be running together for the entire race anyhow, so I just forged ahead and used the opportunity to really pick up my pace.  

Shortly after, the course got much harder because the trail almost disappeared entirely as we climbed a steep hill. I found myself pushing through branches and leaves, while also looking down to make sure I was not falling in a pothole or veering from the course. I found the uphill section to be somewhat fun, but the downhill section was more stressful because I was afraid of slipping without any good footing. It almost felt like skiing down a really narrow double black diamond. 

Each new section brought new challenges and exciting elements to overcome, but I found myself feeling like it was the race that never ended.

Another candid shot from an easier paved section

A runner forges ahead through the rocky trail

Two runners focus on the trail

At the last checkpoint, I was sure that we must be close to the end, but I asked the volunteer and she said that we still had 5km remaining. My legs have never been so tired in a half marathon before, and the elevation was really taking a toll. Soon after this checkpoint, we merged with the slow runners from the 13k race. On one hand, the slow runners added yet another set of obstacles to the course, but on the other hand, it was encouraging to whiz past so many people.

The end of the race came seemingly out of nowhere, and it brought us right back to the park where we began. I enjoyed being cheered by the other members from my running club when I came through the gate, and I felt accomplished from the challenge that had just been completed. 

Even though this race was only a half marathon, the huge elevation gains/losses made it feel like a lot longer. I love trail running because it requires a lot more mental focus. In these races, it is not possible to turn off your brain because you must constantly be aware of the terrain. I found myself much more stressed on certain parts because I was nervous about losing my footing or holding back the people behind me. However, the thrills of the course far outweighed the negative elements. 

Looking back on the elevation and route maps, it was cool to see the distance that we covered: 

Elevation Chart for the 21k course

 

Overall course map

Throughout the race, I did not pay any attention to the number of people in front of me, nor did I bring a watch to track my own time. I had no way of even predicting my goals, but I finished with the feeling that I pushed almost as fast as I could have gone. 

I was happy with my overall placement of 30th out of 635 runners in the half marathon. For my first trail race, finishing in the top 5% was very satisfying. The race organizers did a great job at arranging the course and managing the logistics. It was much more rustic than any other race I have done in the past, but I think that is the biggest appeal of trail running.  

Smuttynose Half Marathon

I usually play by the rules, but today, I went against the system. I made the last-minute decision to fly back to Boston for the weekend and I thought it would be fun to run the Smuttynose Half Marathon with Kristen.

The race was sold out by the time I planned my trip, but I noticed on Facebook that a high school classmate had a number she was unable to use. So, I did what any normal person would do: I gave her $25 to run with her number. It was a win-win scenario.

I drove up to New Hampshire on Sunday morning and I was surprised by how busy it was in downtown Hampton. Parking was filling up quickly and streets were already blocked, so I just pulled into the first lot I could find. I then met Kristen to get my number (well, "Susan's" number) and to chat a bit before the race.

For the first time ever, I was running a half marathon without any record of my participation. The feeling left me very relaxed, but at the same time, it felt less important. I fully planned to keep a comfortable pace since there was really no reason to push myself. 

Once the race began, my whole plan dissolved almost immediately. At first, I just started passing people who had no business being at the front of the pack because they were like a roadblock. However, after a couple miles, I found myself passing people who were actually running fast. My "race mode" is almost like an subconscious competitive drive that cannot be turned off. 

The first six miles of the course went along the water, which would have been beautiful if it weren't for the giant cement sea wall. Despite the wall, I could tell that waves had been crashing onto the street because there was some seaweed and sand strewn about haphazardly.   

The next five miles took racers through a residential area, which had limited spectators. Those that I did see had a some pretty funny signs. One read: "This seems like a lot of work for a free banana". Another said: "You look hot when you sweat". I don't know if anyone else pays attention to signs, but I always enjoy reading them for a smile along the way.

Around mile 8, I noticed a bicycle alongside a blond girl. I immediately realized that she must be the first woman, so the internal debate began: Do I pass her and get disqualified at the finish line when they realize I am not the woman that my number belongs to? Or, even worse, do I hang behind this girl for the next 5 miles and possibly win the 2nd place trophy from the woman who rightfully deserves it?

The weather was perfect and I was feeling good, so I passed her with a smug smile on my face. It felt good to break the rules so shamelessly. 

As expected, the announcer identified my fake identity as soon as I crossed the finish line and it was deleted from the results list. However, I glanced at the clock as I crossed the finish line, which read 1:25:08. So much for taking it easy! 

Finish line at the 2014 Smuttynose Half Marathon

After the race, there was a live concert at the outdoor performance venue, plus two free Smuttynose IPA beers. I have to say this is one of the worst beers I have ever tasted, so I put mine down after the first couple sips. At least the 80's cover band was entertaining and the weather was perfect. 

Post-race concert at Smuttynose Half Marathon

Kristen and me after the race

As I drove home, I was happy with my decision to run the race to my full potential. Even though my time was not recorded, I can at least be proud of my effort. My personality simply won't allow anything less. 

Regarding the number resale, I honestly don't have any regrets. Shame on the race organizers for not allowing a transfer option. I know it's rare among races to allow transfers, but I would have gladly paid $20 for them to reassign the registration to my name. Not only this race but all races should recognize that people will transfer bibs, so this is a good way to legitimize the process and make even more revenue. 

Was this race fun? Yes. Would I run it again? No. I feel like it was overpriced, and Hampton New Hampshire is not the best location. Plus, the medal and shirt were both ugly.  That said, it's nice to have another race under my belt and it's always good to run with a friend. 

Smuttynose Half Marathon 2014 Medal

Bellingham Bay Half Marathon

Regardless of location or distance, every race has a similar feeling of anticipation before the starting gun goes off. A few overly eager people loosen up their legs with a light jog along the street. The stragglers squirm in their lines at the portable toilets, debating whether they really need to go. Most people line up tightly in the corrals, doing their final stretches or chatting with those around them. I have been in each of these groups at one point in my life, but races are becoming so routine that I am usually just relaxing in the corrals and observing the sights around me.

One thing that was refreshingly unique about the Bellingham Bay pre-race was the amazing announcer. He picked people out of the crowd at random and made up stories about their credentials and goals for the race. If anything he said came to be true, I would have been in the presence of world record holders and other running celebrities! It's always nice to laugh in an otherwise tense environment. 

I had not really looked at the course map in advance of the race, but I was really surprised by the diverse terrain covered. It took runners through many twists and turns, including a few unpaved paths, and even a long deck that stood over the water. If it weren't for the many wonderful volunteers, we would have surely gotten lost (like the recent Bangalore marathon, where the leading runners went off-course and had to borrow money to take public transport back to the finish line)!

The most scenic part of the course

The weather ended up being a little cooler and mistier than the forecast predicted, but it was perfect for running in Washington State. I used to love the autumn for football season, but now, I love it for the crisp running weather (and football). 
 

Misty weather and Native American art

The crowd support was actually better than I anticipated for such a small city. In fact, I could barely find parking before the race in the downtown area but I appreciated the decent crowd support near the end. 

The finish line had a good party atmosphere, complete with live music and food trucks. The band was also quite good and a lot of people stuck around just to listen to their music. Another unique element of this race was the selection of candid pictures, already printed and displayed for anyone who wants to pay $10 on the spot for a nice souvenir. 

Live entertainment at the finish line

Candid photos for sale at the finish line

I am curious how many more purchases they get when the picture is already printed. In my experience, most people just screen shot the copyrighted photos and shamelessly post them all over social media with the watermark clearly visible across the picture. Kinda like this: 

Here I am crossing the finish line

Yes, I know my shirt is hideous.

I have purchased a few good pictures in the past, but my typical modus operandi is to just save the copyrighted version. I was, however, tempted to buy this one gem - taken of the man behind me who clearly was not camera-ready at this point in the race: 

One of my competitors

Running is a hobby that can become routine and dull very quickly. For me, racing is one way to keep me motivated because I get to discover new places and fulfill my competitive drive. I found the Bellingham Bay Half Marathon to be a very interesting course and with some entertainment that exceeded my expectations.

Bellingham Bay Half Marathon Medal

Chicago

One month in Chicago. 

After all the non-stop exotic travel this year, I was initially a little disappointed when I first heard that I would be spending so long in the windy city. Don’t get me wrong – Chicago is a fantastic place to visit. It just seemed less exciting to me than somewhere new would have been.

As I started making plans for the trip, I quickly realized how much fun it will be to spend the summer in a city I called home for two years.  I will be able to catch up with all my old friends, work in a relaxed office environment, and return to a typical American lifestyle. 

Well, almost typical.

I will still be living in a hotel and eating all my meals at restaurants. But, at least I will be walking to work, understanding the local language, and hanging out with people that I have known for more than 2 weeks.

I was upgraded on my flight to Chicago (a great way to start a trip). Approaching O’Hare airport always offers beautiful views of the city and I peered out of the window like an excited child. As my taxi reached downtown, it was nostalgic to see the buildings that I used to pass every day. There was comfort in knowing exactly where I was going.

Walking to the office on Monday morning reminded me just how busy the city can be during the morning commute. Sidewalks are filled with people – all walking with a clear destination in mind.  The signature Chicago commuter 'look' includes business casual office attire, a leather bag over one shoulder, ear buds playing music, a Starbucks cup in one hand, and a phone in the other. Everyone is connected, but not to each other. 

Although I am living in a hotel, it already feels like I am back at home. For me, the comforts of home are less about my accommodations and more about the overall lifestyle. Summer in Chicago is filled with street festivals, al fresco dining, volleyball games on the beach, and non-stop concerts at Pritzker Pavilion. These events aren’t the most exciting to recall in a blog post, but they are a reflection of the high quality of life that Chicagoans enjoy during the few months of nice weather each year.

One of the best outdoor music venues in the country

One of my favorite weekend activities in Chicago has always been to run along the lakefront path (surprising, I know). The path is always a great place to scope out fellow runners, bikers, and anyone enjoying the beach. Overall, the people seem to be in better shape than I remember.  Maybe I have just spent too much time out of the country, where TV and stereotypes perpetuate the idea that all Americans are overweight.

All Americans do not look like the family on Honey Boo Boo!

As the weeks progressed, I realized that I took Chicago for granted when I lived here before. It's such a vibrant city, but it is easy to ignore the outside world when life feels routine. I used to get on the bus and read my kindle without even noticing the people around me or the views from the window.  I would eat at the same restaurants, drink at the same bars, and complain when I had to travel more than 5 miles to see my friends. I think most people get stuck in the same routine when they're at home.

This time around, I have made a concerted effort to accept every social invitation, to visit places that are usually geared towards tourists, and to try new restaurants in different parts of the city.  I almost always take my camera with me so I can take pictures like as if it were the first time I had ever seen Chicago. Here are some of my favorite pictures of the city from the past month:  

Chicago sky-scrapers in River North area

Water Tower, with John Hancock Tower as a backdrop

Passing the familiar Civic Opera Building in the Chicago Loop

People cross one of many bridges over the Chicago river

Wrigley building at night

 

When I finally do settle down in one place, I need to remind myself to spend some time appreciating the beauty of my surroundings.  Chicago, like any other city, is filled with great architecture, wonderful people, and plenty of photo opportunities.  

I'm so glad I have gotten the opportunity to revisit Chicago this summer.  It has given me the chance to catch up with old friends, make new connections, and enjoy the city like a tourist. 

This will always be the Sears Tower to me...

Michigan Ave skyline

Cloud Gate at Millennium Park

Chicago River at sunset

Old Port Half Marathon (Portland, ME)

Portland Maine is a city that oozes New England charm. It started as a fishing village and the Old Port district still remains a hub of activity for both tourists and locals.  I was excited to see that a half marathon was happening during the last weekend of my vacation.  I was even more excited when I found out that Erin, one of my oldest friends, had also signed up for the race. 

I drove up with my mom on Saturday morning so we could spend the day on the beach with Erin and her family. It had been years since I spent time at their summer cottage, but the childhood memories flooded back as soon as I stepped through the door. It was as if the entire house had been frozen in time while all of us grew up.

We spent a few hours on the beach, soaking up the sun before Erin, Megan, and I went to the city for our race packets. 

I was happy to see that this was not a typical expo. Instead of winding through rows of event promotions, athletic gear, and health food samples, this felt more like an outdoor music festival. A stage was set up at the end of the pier with live bands playing throughout the afternoon. There was also a huge beer tent serving various flavors of Shipyard beer. The blueberry wheat was great.  Clearly, we understand that carb loading is essential before a race and beer can fall into that category, too. 

Stage at Old Port Half Marathon Expo

Erin and I enjoying the expo

On this perfect summer day, the race organizers succeeded in making us almost forget that we would have to run 13.1 miles the next morning. 

That evening, my mom and I stayed with one of her friends in Kennebunk, which is another charming Maine town.  Similar to Portland, the history of this town is closely connected to shipbuilding and fishing industries. Driving through downtown, we passed so many stately mansions that we were told belonged to ship captains.  The seafront was so picturesque and we arrived at the perfect time to watch the sun set. 

Casual beachfront living at its finest

Sun begins to set over Kennebunkport

 

Fantastic Maine evening

New England is filled with so many charming towns to visit throughout the year, but Kennebunkport is such an ideal summer tourist destination. For anyone who wants to soak up the true New England atmosphere, one evening is simply not enough. 

The next morning, we woke up at the crack of dawn (literally) and I'm glad we left extra time because the parking situation in Portland was a little chaotic. It's amazing how just a few thousand people can really clog up the city.  

The starting line could have used at least double the number of portable toilets. I knew I wouldn't have time to wait in line, so I just crossed my fingers and hoped for the best. The line-up process was also a bit unusual because everyone was corralled on a pier. I was late to get in line, so I just ducked under a fence to get a spot at the front of the pack. 

The course took us along Commercial Street, up through some pretty noticeable hills, then back along Commercial Street in the opposite direction.  Around the 5th mile, I knew I would find my mom and her friend cheering me on, so I pushed extra hard to impress them with a good placement. Not only that, I also needed to look good for the inevitable candid photos. The funny thing is that my mom would be proud of me even if I was in last place. I suppose all this effort is to impress myself more than anyone else. 

Running along Commercial Street

The next part of the course took us up another hill, along the parks of Eastern Promenade, and around a lake-type area called Back Cove.  There were some pretty aggressive hairpin turns and I could imagine had huge potential for bottlenecks (fortunately, I made it through before the bulk of the runners). Aside from some strange turns, it really was a beautiful course. 

One thing happened during this race that almost never happens in a half marathon: I was passed (multiple times). It actually rattled my confidence because I was wondering just how slowly I may be running. I realized that my problem was probably going out too fast in the first half. Typical amateur runner mistake. I should have known better. 

The final mile of the race took runners along the famous "graffiti wall", past the old rail tracks (complete with a historic rail car), and back along the water towards the finish line.  By this point, I was just tired of being passed so I pushed myself once again to at least finish with a respectable placement. 

Not realizing I was about to be passed (again)

By this point, I was ready to be finished!

The crowds along the last half-mile of the course were really uplifting.  As I approached the finish line, I was shocked to see the clock reading only 1 hour 22 minutes - a very good time for me. After feeling like I was struggling for much of the last five miles, this was a huge surprise. My mental struggle may have been a symptom of the heat, or maybe just the psychological effects of being passed by at least 4-5 people. 

I picked up my medal and searched for everyone I knew who was there to cheer me on.  There's no better feeling than to finish a race and actually have people around to celebrate the accomplishment.  Of course, it's also nice when they bring things like water, energy bars, and a cold towel to put around my neck!  Talk about celebrity treatment.

Finish line gifts

We all waited for Erin to finish and I had debated whether I should run the last half mile with her.  In the end, I decided to just remain a part of the cheering section. Oddly enough, we were talking afterwards and she also wondered whether I would run the final part of the course with her.  I guess I should have jumped in!

Erin and I after the race

Overall, it was a beautiful weekend in Maine. The race was a lot of fun, the weather was perfect, and I had the honor of a cheering section at the finish line. To be honest, the joy of racing has eluded me over the past year. My finish times (and placements) have suffered with my ankle trouble. But, more than that, running alone just makes everything feel like a business trip than a social event. I am so glad that the two races I decided to run on vacation were enjoyed with friends and family. This has given me renewed enthusiasm for the sport. 

My #1 fan!

As I prepare for my next work trip - this time in Chicago for an undefined amount of time - I am grateful for my time at home and for this short weekend trip to Maine. I loved being able to see good friends and family, while enjoying a sport that I am so passionate about.  Thanks to the Old Port Half Marathon team for a wonderful event!

Old Port Half Marathon - 2014 Medal

Outdoor Activities in Perth

The first thing I noticed about Perth was all the green space. Despite having a population of over 1.5 million, the downtown area feels incredibly spacious, with a multitude of fields and biking/running trails along the river. The city has an amazing climate, so it comes as no surprise that people like to spend their time outdoors.

The day after I arrived, I participated in the "HBF Run for a Reason", which is a huge event with around 30,000 runners between the 4k and 12k distances. The race started downtown and was remarkably well-organized, considering the sheer volume of participants. I also found the atmosphere to be really uplifting, as the announcers shared fun stories, interviewed racers, and showed pictures on a huge screen that people were tweeting of themselves in the starting corrals. 

I was stuck in the middle of the pack to start the race, so the first kilometer was mainly spent weaving in and out of the slow runners. (One of my running pet peeves is when slow people insist on starting near the front and serve as roadblocks for the people that actually deserve to be in front). The first half of the course was along the highway and through a long tunnel, before meandering through the riverfront parks, and finishing at the horse track. 

Once the pack thinned out, I managed to catch my rhythm. My ankle hurt at the beginning, but I really pushed myself hard. I love these shorter races because I don't have to conserve my energy so much.

I managed to escape the crowds by the middle

The finish area at the racetrack was really unique (although, surprisingly, it was not the first time I ran through a horse track...Kentucky Derby half marathon in 2012 holds that honor). My finish time for the 12k race was just over 45 minutes and I was really proud of my overall placement.

Approaching the finish line at Gloucester Park

After the race, I hung around for a while to talk with other runners and watch the seemingly endless parade of race finishers. It's fun to see how much more crowded the finish line gets when the bulk of the runners reach the end (it almost felt like I was running in a completely different race).

Here's a shot of the finish line

Finish area of the HBF Run for a Reason

Even though I didn't have anyone cheering me on at the finish line, I always enjoy the feeling of accomplishment that comes at the end of the race. Most of my workouts during the week are at a more relaxed pace, so it's fulfilling to really push myself on race day. Here's a video compilation of the event, which was posted online a few days later:

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Aside from running, anyone visiting Perth should definitely rent a bicycle and explore the city and nearby suburbs via their extensive trail network along the river. The trails are extremely well maintained and offer tremendous views of the city.

One of the bike paths along the Swan River in Perth

I set off for my journey from the CBD and proceeded down the path without a particular destination in mind. As I continued towards the suburbs, the sky started getting really dark and rain began pouring down. I took cover under a tree, which was only marginally effective. By this point, I was about 5-6 miles away from where I had started, which left me dreading the ride back.

Where did the rain come from?!

The rain wasn't slowing down, so I decided to just ride as quickly as possible back to the city. Water was not only soaking me from above, but also all over my back and into my shoes. It's almost like the tires were purposely designed to funnel as much water as possible onto me. 

In a city known for its beautiful weather and outdoor activities, I had to redeem myself with another bike ride later in the week. Bicycle adventure 2.0 started at the same place and with the same views.

Preparing for bike ride #2 on this sunny day in Perth

I decided that my destination would be King's Park, which sits at the top of a hill overlooking the city. I was advised to enter at the furthest point from the city, which was a great idea because I was able to get beautiful, serene views from the University of Western Australia and the Royal Perth Yacht Club. 

Views of the city from Royal Perth Yacht Club

Even though it is now winter in Perth, the weather felt like a late-spring day for northern US standards! I have heard that summers can be very warm, so this must be one of the most pleasant times to do outdoor activities without working up a huge sweat. 

I cycled up the hill and entered the park for a really serene ride. The hills made for a nice workout and the trees kept the trails very secluded. Eventually, I got to a clearing and was treated with a beautiful view overlooking the city. 

Overlooking Perth from King's Park

Views of South Perth from King's Park

I continued biking through the park for a while longer, climbed the DNA tower (for yet another view of the city), and looked at some of the war memorials that also overlook the city from King's Park.

On my way back into the city, there was a small patch of rain that was just strong enough to feel refreshing. The added benefit of the rain were some rainbows that formed across the sky. I rode right through the end of this one shown below, but alas, there was no pot of gold.

A rainbow forms over Perth CBD

The city of Perth places a high value on the well-being of its residents. It is clear that major investments are made to keep the parks and bike paths well maintained. The parks even have fitness equipment stationed in select areas for people to do a circuit workout. 

Athletic events like the HBF Run for a Reason receive such great publicity - from banners around the city, to results being published in the newspaper. The local news station even did a 30-minute recap segment the following week. 

If every city made such concerted efforts to promote healthy lifestyles, the world would be a much happier place.