-- Surah Nasr --
Hoodi route, version 2.0 (9.1 Miles) -- 05/31/13
Main road - W. Trail - Dunmore House - Through Gated Communities -
Sai Baba House - Ryan International - Kundalahalli Lake (anti
clock-wise) - Slum - Brookefield rd: 0:43:57
RxDx - BasawaraNagar - Hoodi: 0:21:06
Along Train Tracks - Up along Shantiniketan - ITPL: 0:18:53
Time: 1:23:56
Mileage: 9.1 Miles
Wght: 70.2 kg / 154.7 lbs
Wonderful long run. Feeling very good and relaxed, foot pain
just about gone. Good contrast with yesterday's stark depression,
where I retracted into a shell of silence.
So having a little time this morning, I try this route for a second
time. I get a little lost through the gated communities looking for
the exit. The route around the lake is great, sort of catching the
morning activity of the slums. It has rained very heavily last night,
so the dirt sections are muddy, particularly the road along the tracks.
I'm hoping this puts me back on track. As often, I've had a difficult
time returning to India.
Through BasavanaNagar (8.2 Miles) -- 06/05/13
Main road - W. Trail - Dunmore House Short - Accenture - Kundalahalli
Lake - Brookefields: 0:34:34
Main road to RxDx - Basavananagar - Dirt Trail around a small lake -
Finding my way - Hoodi: 0:22:50
Along the Tracks - ITPL: 0:18:18
Time: 1:15:41
Mileage: 8.2 Miles
Wght: 70.5 kg / 155.4 lbs
Great run. Left at 5:30. Big problems with dogs through the slum by
the lake, just because they're in numbers and don't back out, but
still hold a reasonable distance. It's one way to connect with
the slumdwellers, as they try to help me out, and I can talk to
them in Hindi.
Later, I get lost trying a new way through BasawanaNagar: It's the
dirt road to the left, along a small lake, which starts very promising,
but eventually disintegrates into a very muddy field, where a lot of
people are pooping, and straight into a workers camp. But I make
it through, eventually rejoining the road near the back of Windmills.
This route might have worked if I had turned sooner to the left,
where it probably connects with other paved roads. Something to try...
Kodigehalli Lake Loop (10 Miles) -- 06/07/13
T-Zed - Main Rd. - W. Trail - Dunmore House - Gated Residencies -
Sai Baba House - Ryan International - Brookefields: 0:31:16
Main Road - RxDx - BasavanaNagar - Kaccha Rasta - Around Euro School -
Hoodi Main Road - Hoodi: 0:26:16
Across the Rail Tracks, then straight - Kodigehalli Lake - Kodigehalli
Road - Back to Tracks - Up to ITPL: 0:35:23
Time: 1:32:55
Mileage: 10 Miles
Big run, as has become a tradition on Friday's, as morning meetings
are typically cancelled.
I feel GREAT, effortless running. I look for new routes, with various
success.
I easily navigate the gated communities leading to the Sai Baba House.
Today, I avoid the Kudalahalli Lake, but try to find a way to circumvent
the main road in Brookfield, to no avail. I venture on a dirt road only
to be stopped by a whistling guard who explains that "allowed nahi hai"
(while beaming at my Hindi). I've given up on finding such a passage.
Then in BassavanaNagar, I try again the dirt road along the lake, but
here too no success. Despite having turned left on a promising trail,
I end up again in a closed worker's camp where I ask my way, end up
having to circumvent "Euro School" which leads me too far to the
West on the Main Road to Hoodi.
From there, I finally decide to go explore the Lake. I take the road
straight out, knowing that it can do a large loop that reaches back
the railway passage. I try a dirt road to the lake, then a small trail
along its shore, but this ends eventually, passing into properties,
and when I ask my way again, I'm redirected to the road, which loops
around. I eventually end up again by the tracks, a very interesting
promenade. I've seen a lot of interesting people today, yet have not
stopped to take pictures (regrettably), for example, two little children
playing by a tent, one wearing a half football as a hat. Then near
Kodigehalli, a group of tents particularly poor (and half built, no
walls), that really reminds me of the "dirty people" who use to live
in Nellurahalli. The women there are wearing amazingly ornate and
colorful dresses, in spite of the dreary surroundings.
This took 1h30, but could surely tighten up a little.
Dhuah-e-Khunut (11.1 Miles) -- 06/09/13
Vartur - Balagere: 0:29:06
Balagere large loop: Pathanur - Gunjur Palika - Balagere: 0:46:41
Back via Eidga: 0:26:58
Time: 1:42:46
Mileage: 11.1 Miles
Wght: 70.4 kg / 155.2 lbs
Another fantastic run, feeling very easy. I suspect my pace is faster,
even at this effortless level.
Windy and cool, but no rain. The former rice fields by the lake, turned
construction sites, have now been barbed wired, effectively closing that
access to Vartur unfortunately. I was going to go for the shorter loop,
but as things went on decided for this instead. Dogs continue to be
a little more aggressive than normal, but still safe distance.
On the way back, shortcutting through worker's camp, the bridge over
the river has collapsed under the part rains, but still fordable.
This concludes one of my biggest running weeks in a long time ...
Have finished learning Duah-e-Khunut.
Ajgondanahalli route (9.2 Miles) -- 06/21/13
Vartur - Valepura - Ajgondanahalli - Naugondanahalli - Chansandra -
Vijay Nagar North - Holy Cross - Elim - Worker's trail - Lake trail -
Time: 1:25:22
Mileage: 9.2 Miles
Wght: 70.4 kg / 155.2 lbs
Good run. Late start (7:30), no morning meeting. Ate too much chocolate
leftovers from my birthday last night, but this should evacuate it.
Ruksanna insomnia due to her brother's shameful treason.
-- Surah Falaq --
Surah Falaq (13.6 Miles) -- 06/23/13
Vartur - Tippasandra route - Straight on the trail past the
Gunjur rd - Unknown trails, unknown villages - Find a road near
Nama Samprandaya - Reach a village, probably Chambenahalli: 1:02:18
Back on that road to Katigerupa - Right via Halasahalli -
Vartur - back: 1:03:55
Time: 2:06:13
Mileage: 13.6 Miles
Wght: 70.6 kg / 155.6 lbs
Great run again. Windy and relatively cool, perfect for running.
Only carry a single flask of water and a bar that I eat half-way.
Decide to proceed straight on the trails after Gunjur road, in
unknown territory, where I navigate through a maze of trails.
I start feeling particularly good about 45 minutes into the run,
treading this semi-new territory (I've been here once or twice).
I eventually reach that Namma Samprandaya house which I had
reached a long time ago (and know that it connects to Katiregupa),
but decide to venture out a little further to a village that I
vaguely remember for its big govt school, in the direction of
Sarjapur. I do reach it eventually. Dogs are particularly
aggressive today, so I revert to the old habit of carrying
two rocks, and seriously threatening them, releasing my anger.
I turn back at the village (going back through the same dogs).
On the trail through Vartur, a motorbike brushes by me. I start
complaining in Hindi, which the guy mistakes. He stops to gesture
me to hop on the back, in all friendship. Just a few meters
later, another bike cuts my road, to which I can't repress
an "ayou..." The guy turns his head, to which I wave friendily.
Among the many adjustments, repressing one's anger at the
traffic etiquette is one of the hardest. It would be easy,
especially while running, to succomb to some sort of road
rage. But these are not bad manners necessarily, just the
way things are.
Anyway, easy comfortable return. It's great to feel so at ease.
Learned and practiced Surah Falaq. out of new things to learn...
Kodigehalli Loop (13 Miles) -- 06/30/13
Hagadur - Whitefield - Circle - ECC road - ITPL: 0:31:00
Down to rail tracks - Kodigehalli road loop to Hoodi: 0:33:49
BassavanaNagar - EPIP area - Nellurahalli - Borewell rd. -
Whitefield - Hagadur: 0:54:42
Time: 1:59:32
Mileage: 13 Miles
Wght: 70.4 kg / 155.2 lbs
Did pretty long as planned, in spite of Ruksanna asking
that I run only one hour. Do this route in reverse of normal.
Going through EPIP instead of Kundalahalli Lake is both
unpleasant and actually not much shorter.
Pretty tired at the end, but ran without a single stop or food.
Stevens Creek Trail (9.4 Miles) -- 07/08/13
Monday 07/08/13 -- Stevens Creek Trail (Mountain View)
Moffet - through Shoreline to PA Baylands and back.
3 miles chunks: 27'52" - 26'49" (total 54'41")
Pace: 9'07" / mile
Time: 1:25:57
Mileage: 9.4 Miles
Tuesday 07/09/13 -- Stevens Creek Trail
Moffet - Shoreline - Back via Golf Course back road.
Time: 1:25:32
Sample Miles: 28'50" (3) - 9'29" (1).
Pace: 9'35" / mile
Mileage: 8.9 Miles
Started slow, but really felt better and better on the way back.
Not a good run. Feeling tired and sore, dizzy, a combo of insufficient
food before the run and general tiredness. I cut my plans short and turn
around at Shoreline, starting to feel a little better on the way back.
No cause for concern, this is normal. Amazing that it took me as long
as yesterday yet I covered far less distance.
-- Surah Kafiroun --
Sourah Kafiroun (9.3 Miles) -- 07/10/13
Time: 1:17:11
Mileage: 9.3 Miles
The Stevens Creek Trail has been lengthened past El Camino to the West,
ending at Heatherstone! It's so close to home that I decide to pursue
to Manhattan Court, where I meet the new owners of our house, a very
nice couple whom I chat with. I don't have my phone so I'll have to
come back for pictures.
Run feels very comfortable, much better than yesterday.
I have learned Soura Kaafiroun.
Palo Alto Baylands (14.5 Miles) -- 07/11/13
Stevens Creek - Shoreline - PA Baylands - Bixbee.
Time: 2:21:13 (turn back at 1:10:01)
Sample Miles: 28'33" 10'04" 10'07" 29'28"
Pace: 9'46" / mile
Mileage: 14.5 Miles
Wow, we're starting to get into long run territory.
Up at 4, frustrating failure in trying to wash my clothes, then out
before 6. Feel generally good, start to bunk a couple times but was
carrying a bar and water. This is a very slow pace though, so much
for having picked it up. I'm plotting a run to PDI...
-- On the river, Bend, Oregon --
Bend, Oregon -- 07/12/13
-- Smith Rock with Madeleine --
-- Mt Hood, from Frog Lake --
-- Along the Bay Trail --
Ames Nasa Research Base (12.8 Miles) -- 07/16/13
Monday 07/15/13 -- Ames Nasa Research Base
Time: 1:31:38
Mileage: 9.9 Miles
Tuesday 07/16/13 -- Same as yesterday, but longer.
Time: 1:58:22
Mileage: 12.8 Miles
Almost by accident, found a new opening on the Bay Trail, which has opened
in the last five years. It veers South, connecting towards Sunnyvale, going
straight through the Marsh lands, with little to no traffic, circumventing
the Ames Nasa Base. I'm in a hurry today so I turn back eventually, but this
seems to keep going for a while (I stopped approaching a golf course...),
definitely want to come back for a long run.
Feeling really good, after having returned late yesterday from Portland.
Started learning Surah Fil.
Today, my passport arrived, I'm filling the Visa Application.
Sort of complete yesterday's run by extending all the way to Carribean
Drive in Sunnyvale. Started slow and a little sore, but feeling great
overall. More Surah Fil.
-- Sourah Fil --
-- Jeremie and Madeleine on the Great Salt Lake --
Salt Lake -- 07/18/13
-- Mt Timpanagos --
Along the Jordan River (12.4 Miles) -- 07/21/13
Friday 07/19/13 -- Along the Jordan River Path, Sandy, Utah.
Time: 2:01:45
Mileage: 13.2 Miles
Sunday 07/21/13 -- Along the Jordan River Path, then West on 14600.
Time: 1:54:25
Mileage: 12.4 Miles
Good run, started slow as usual, but picked up nicely. Prolonged what
I had started yesterday, but running out of trail, took a road to the
West.
We later did a great hike in Mt Timpanogos, where Madeleine had really
wanted to go. Didn't go to the summit, but nice trail with waterfalls.
Madeleine particularly happy. And then a lot of lakes.
-- Our former house on Manhattan Court --
1050 Manhattan court (7.1 Miles) -- 07/23/13
Time: 1:04:20 (34'19", 30'01")
Mileage: 7.1 Miles
Quick pilgrimage to Manhattan Court to take photos. Not much time,
as I have to go to the Visa Office in SF.
The run feels great! Very comfortable, and easily able to push the
pace, particularly on the way back, as evidenced by the split times,
or the big difference with last week on the same course.
Started learning Surah Quraish.
Today, I've kept my first Rosa. Not exactly orthodox, I ate probably
around 6:30 and drank a glass of water after the run, but then fasted
until 9pm.
-- Surah Quraish --
Rosa (9.2 Miles) -- 07/24/13
Stevens Creek Trail Dead Ends
Time: 1:13:43
Mile laps (on the way back): 8'11" 7'43"
Pace: 7'57" / mile (although this doesn't apply to the whole run)
Mileage: 9.2 Miles
Second day Rosa. This time, I didn't even drink after the run, although
feeling dehydrated and parched. This was another good run. I pushed
the pace on the way back and measured the miles, getting a better pace
than I expected. (Yesterday's pace must have been faster than 9'00" / mile).
The Rosa was harder today, mostly because of this strong thirst that doesn't
abate, just getting a little better towards the end of the day. But I did
hold it, in spite of the run.
Long Run, Mountain View to PDI (19 Miles) -- 07/25/13
Stevens Creek - Shoreline - Palo Alto Baylands - Bixbee: 1:09:26
Nature Center - Baylands trail - E. Palo Alto - Bay Rd. - University Ave.
to Dumbarton Hwy: 0:41:34
Bayfront Expyw - Marsh Road: 0:25:29
Along 101 - Seaport - PDI: 0:39:10
Sample Miles (up to Bixbee): 9'05" 9'01" 9'16" 9'24" 9'13"
Estimated Pace: 9'15" / mile
Time: 2:55:38
Mileage: 19 Miles
For the first time in a long while, a true bona fide long run!
And I handle it very well, actually. Wasn't quite sure how long this would
take, but ends up being right on the money, three hours. I have left jewels
hidden at home in the oven, a little nervous about that. Feeling good
throughout, no excessive pain or duress. It feels that perhaps the two
days of fasting have helped the run (contrary to popular belief), as I
never run out of energy. I'm carrying two water bottles which I drink,
but don't need to touch my energy bars. Very happy to have accomplished
this.
And later in the day, the news come: My visa is ready for pick-up!
I don't have my car so I call a taxi back home. The guy is Punjabi.
We speak in Hindi and he plays me Punjabi music. For once, I appreciate
the music!
-- The way to Valdez, Alaska --
Valdez, Alaska (12.6 Miles) -- 07/28/13
Rd to Anchorage - left to airport - Valdez Glacier Campground: 0:58:16
Back with detours: 0:58:27
Time: 1:56:43
Mileage: 12.6 Miles
-- Valdez --
Up at 5 (in full daylight), out at 6. The run is ok, but not as amazing
as one would expect. First part on a bike trail along main road, then
after turning towards airport gets more exciting and isolated. I reach
Valdez Glacier campground when it's time to come back. To try to reach
a large stream that I hear to the side of the road, I take a dirt road,
but decide to turn back when I think I see some animal further down
the trail. There are abundant bears in the area, and I am rigorously
alone, so this is probably the right decision.
Later, Madeleine and I go to Worthington Glacier, hike around the moraine,
crossing the tumultuous stream, whose ice cold waters burn our feet. Great
day, although still somewhat disappointed in Valdez.
Mastered Surah Quraish.
Monday 07/29/13 -- Alaska
Visit of Valdez College in the morning. Despite extraordinary welcome,
the place is too small so Madeleine won't come here. On the drive back
to Anchorage (this time by the road), we fist see a bald eagle and thousands
of salmon swimming upstream by the Valdez Hatchery (but we miss the bears).
Much further down the road, we stop by a glacier where we see a female
moose on the side of the road, then hike another glacier. At some point,
a sudden profound noise right under our feet, caused by the ever shifting
ice mass, really scares us, prompting us to get off the damn thing in a
rush. Madeleine fascinated by the multiform ice formations, sculpted
by the giant's push.
That night, fly out from Anchorage. The airport is so incredibly busy
that we don't get a change for a proper goodbye.
Tuesday 07/30/13 -- 4th day of Rosa.
Ate at the airport upon arrival, then nothing until 8:30. Actually pretty
difficult, I've been exhausted all day, not having slept much in the plane,
dozing off in meetings.
-- Along the Glaciers --
-- Surah Ma'oun --
Surah Quraish, Surah Ma'oun (7.8 Miles) -- 07/31/13
Stevens Creek, to end of trail.
Time: 1:12:04
Mileage: 7.8 Miles
Slow, recovery run. Feeling ok, started Surah Ma'oun.
5th day Rosa. But woke up at 7 so ate late, and then drank a single
glass of water after the run.
-- Along the Bay Trail --
Last run in the US (13.1 Miles) -- 08/01/13
Thursday 08/01/13 -- Stevens Creek / Bay Trail
To the South (Sunnyvale), to a little radar tower
Time: 2:01:02 (time splits: 1:02:56 - 0:58:06)
Mileage: 13.1 Miles
For my last run in the US, clear skies, running into a pristine
sunrise. Pelicans and such. Feels pretty good in spite of having
eaten massively yesterday after Rosa. Learning Soura Ma'oun.
As often, negative splits, picking the pace up on the way back.
Drank one water flask along the run, but otherwise, keeping full
Rosa again today, will eat after 8:30pm in the plane.
Leaving today back to India.
-- Durude Ibrahim --
Back (8.2 Miles) -- 08/04/13
Imadihalli - Chansandra (trail) - back North route - Naugondanahalli -
Ajgondanahalli - Vartur - back.
Time: 1:16:12
Mileage: 8.2 Miles
Wght: 70.8 kg / 156.1 lbs
Ok run, although I start weakening after about 45 minutes. Pleasant
windy weather, somewhat cool with intermittent sunshine. Roads muddy
from last night's rains.
Learning Soura Ma'oun.
-- Duah e Masourah --
Muthkur Long Run (21.3 Miles) -- 08/11/13
Muthkur Long Run
Vartur - Muthsandra: 0:46:02
Muthkur - Ayurvedgram - Chansandra road (207): 0:44:01
Back through Mutkhur - Hanuman Crossroads: 0:50:07
Back through Madhuranagar - Vartur: 0:56:32
Time: 3:16:43
Mileage: 21.3 Miles (guessing 9'15" / mile pace)
Wght: 70.3 kg / 155 lbs
I had intended this to be a loop through Samethnahalli,
but the distance turned out to be far less than I anticipated
(a little bit like when I ran to PDI). So I by-pass the intended
shortcuts and decide to run back from Chansandra road.
I pass through Muthkur, the village that Ikram and his brother
had mentionned that day in Nagwar. In spite of being
so small, the village contains one Hindu temple, two Masjids,
and one Eid-gah! A poojaree calls me at the temple but I gesture
that I have no time.
On the way back, I decide to lengthen the way slightly,
passing through the Hanuman stel at the cross-roads, to be
sure I'll pass the three hour bar. There, I replenish my two
water flasks at a road-side shack. I've eaten a single bar
around the two hour mark, which seems enough. A few threatening
dogs, but nothing out of the ordinary.
Overall, feeling great, encouraging for the Marathon.
Don't struggle more than you would expect on a long run,
finishing in relative ease, with a 7-up and a Mountain Dew
from the local bakery.
Santoshamma (12 Miles) -- 08/16/13
Varthur - Baligere rd - Pathanur - to Outer Ring Road: 0:47:59
Back roads to Kundalahalli Gate: 0:23:16
Kundalahalli Lake - Nellurahalli - W. Trail - Vartur Kodi - back: 0:39:20
Time: 1:50:34
Mileage: 12 Miles
Wght: 71 kg / 156.5 lbs
Very muddy, it has rained day and night yesterday. I've forgotten my
shoes in office, so I have to wear my new blue Brooks. Ruksanna
wanted me to keep them clean, but impossible in this mud!
Good run, decide for this somewhat unorthodox route, mostly
to try something new, but the few areas of traffic are really
painful, so I end up regretting the clear country roads. Not
sure if it's psychological or real, but the pollution seems to
take it out of me, as I finish the run unusually tired (but still
able to complete).
In Nellurahalli, I run into SantoshAmma.
I ask her is she's not selling flowers today, but our conversation
is limited due to language. I still insist on giving her 10 roupies
which she first refuses (beda, beda, she says waving her
hands), but I gently press her to take it and drink Chai.
Maduranagar - Muthkur - Samethanahalli Long Run (18.7 Miles) -- 08/19/13
Time: 2:52:52
Imadihalli - Ajgondanahalli - Harohalli - Kotur - Muthsandra: 0:49:40
Mutkhur - Ayurvedagram - Chansandra main rd.: 0:45:50
Samethanahalli - Naugondanahalli - Chansandra: 0:31:50
Back to Imadihalli - Whitefield - Outer Circle - Borewell -
Nellurahalli - Pattandur Agrahara - ITPL: 0:45:32
Mileage: 18.7 Miles
Wght: 71.4 kg / 157.4 lbs
Having missed yesterday's long run because we went to Sea Samundar,
I've decided to run long to work today instead. I'm woken up at 4
by a mosquito slaughtering my hand. My initial plan is to run through
Vartur to Muthsandra like I did recently, but I'm realizing that it
could get very tricky before day rise. To make matters worse, it starts
to rain pretty heavily outside, a rare occurence in the morning. It's
not looking good for this morning, although I want to charge forward
anyway, but perhaps wait a bit for daylight. I start thinking of an
alternate route with more street lights, going out and back towards
Hoskote.
But finally, as I go out around 5:45, I come back to my original plan,
only this time approaching Muthsandra from the Imadihalli / Harohalli
side, which at least has lighting for the first fifteen minutes, enough
to carry me to daylight. This actually turns out very equivalent in
time to the Vartur way.
I don't feel bad, I don't feel great. Breathing is good, but I run
with little enthusiasm. The dogs annoy me more than usual, tired
of battling them, tired in my mind, tired, tired... My water belt
will bother me throughout, first, my left bottle leaking ends up
half empty, drenching my leg. The country roads are even quieter
at this early hour. I do like Mutkur, and from there, easily reach
the main road, where a dense flock of bats creates loud tumult
in the trees. The main road section is actually far better than I feared,
with little traffic. But I still want to pursue my idea of connecting
through Samethanahalli. This proves out pretty quick and easy, as I
soon find the turnout to the village, finding my way through the alleys
to the fields. Along the trail, a young man on a motorbike befriends
me. He wants me to stop by his field to give me cauliflowers which
I have to refuse. Crossing the half-flooded rice fields leading
to Naugondanahalli proves tricky but passable, and here I am back
in familiar territory. But it'll be too short if I run straight
through Chansandra, so I decide to head back to Imadihalli instead,
still hoping to get three hours out of this. I actually feel very
good after Chansandra for a beat, running effortlessly. But on the
road to Whitefield, as if I had suddenly lost weight (I've noticed
this before), my water belt starts falling, the scratch no longer
holding it. After a few such incidents, I decide to carry it across
my shoulder, taking the two water flasks in my hands, and finish
the run that way.
Mission accomplished, but not with the enthusiasm I was hoping for.
-- Duah e Qunoot --
Illness before the race -- 08/27/13
Tuesday 08/27/13 -- Chhota Rasta (W. Trail - Nellurahalli - Pattandur)
Time: 0:30:45
Mileage: 3.3 Miles
Wght: 69.7 kg / 153.6 lbs
Recovery from illness. Still some painful cough, but overall not too bad.
Wednesday 08/28/13 --
Imadihalli - Mid-way temple - Vijay Nagar Hill - Holy Cross - ECC
Sonu Khan - Lake Trail - Pattandur
Time: 0:48:28
Mileage: 5.2 Miles
Wght: 69.7 kg / 153.6 lbs
Still feeling feverish and a painful cough, but run not so bad.
Thursday 08/29/13 -- Chansandra Night Route
Time: 0:57:45
Mileage: 6.3 Miles
Still feeling weak, tired and slow, but still manageable. Remains of
that cough. Now first pale daylight on the way from Imadihalli to
Naugondanahalli (followed by sun rise adhan almost in Chansandra).
Still progressing slowly through Surah Al-Balad.
Friday 08/30/13 -- Vijay Nagar Hill route (through Elim)
Time: 0:49:02
Mileage: 5.3 Miles
Wght: 69.7 kg / 153.6 lbs
Illness gradually getting better (although still some coughing),
but still feeling tired and weak. Running is actually still difficult.
Today, a pretty tough time with dogs through the Hill Section. I gesture
to pick a rock, which calms them a little, but they do get awfully close
without backing away much. Probably a place to avoid so early
in the morning...
Saturday 08/31/13 -- Wght: 69.7 kg / 153.6 lbs
The cough got worse again, and today was a little miserable. Slept
again in the afternoon. Sunday felt a little better, but I cancelled
all plans to run (today normally would have been another long run).
We celebrated Sophia's birthday, which kept us nicely busy...
After torrential rains (8.2 Miles) -- 09/03/13
Tuesday 09/03/13 --
Imadihalli - Chansandra - Back to Midway Temple - Vijay Nagar Hill
North Route - Elim - Back to Outer Circle - Borewell road -
Nellurahalli - Pattandur.
Time: 1:15:48
Mileage: 8.2 Miles
Wednesday 09/04/13 -- Chansandra Night Route
Time: 0:55:03
Mileage: 6.3 Miles
Pace: 8'45" / mile
Wght: 70.3 kg / 155 lbs
Thursday 09/05/13 -- Chansandra Night Route
Time: 0:56:05
Mileage: 6.3 Miles
Wght: 70.3 kg / 155 lbs
At last, a good run.
Due to Labor Day in the US, no morning meeting, so I have more time.
Feeling finally better, I keep extending this run. Weather is perfect,
partly sunny, breezy and cooled down by last night's torrential rain.
It's still very muddy in places.
I feel better, but the tenacious cough is still there, as well as
abundant sweating through the night. It could be too that I'm responding
better to Tylenol (which I took this morning) than Advil.
I will see a doctor today.
Continuing to feel better. Ran this at a fairly good pace without
even trying, and in relative comfort. Doctor said everything's fine
and prescribed some minor medications. Confidence is rebuilding a
little that I might be able to run the upcoming Marathon, that I
haven't lost too much through this illness.
I've consciously been eating more and regaining some of my weight
loss too, which seems to help with the general weakness I was
experiencing.
Still ok, but not feeling as great as previous two days. Some cough is
still bothering me (even on the run), and my nutrition isn't ideal.
(I've switched to Britannia cookies this morning, which seem heavier
on the stomach...) I need to get back to my banana routine which works
best.
Long run "CarmelAram" (20.7 Miles) -- 09/07/13
Vartur - Baligere Road - Pathanur: 0:42:06
Gunjur Palya - Martin Farm - Carmel Convent, school and church -
Karmelaram - Sarjapur Main Road: 0:38:51
Back - Gunjur: 0:27:53
Katiregupe - Nerige: 0:31:45
Muthsandra Junction - back through Madhura Nagar, Vartur: 0:50:40
Time: 3:11:16
Mileage: 20.7 Miles (likely less, as my pace really dropped)
Wght: 70.9 kg / 153.6 lbs
Decide for one last long run before Marathon, to get back on track
after illness. We'll see if that was a good idea versus the taper
in the last week.
Starts ok. Stormy windy conditions, but no rain, cool temperatures.
I have secured this time my water belt with a pin, and found two bottles
that don't leak. I'm wearing a short shorts (not by choice), which
apparently infuriates the dog. I have to face them quite a few times,
reverting to showing rocks and such.
Not really planned, I decide to venture out towards the Carmel Convent,
where I hadn't been in several years. It has developped quite a bit,
like anything here. A motorbike stops ahead of me in that section:
It's Richard, Vanitha's driver, who's surprised to find me so far.
I tell him I'm training for the Marathon next week, but
misunderstanding at first, he shows me the road to
Marathahalli.
The run is very good till Gunjur / Katiretupe, but after Nerige, at
around 2h30 of running, I weaken noticeably, and at 3, in Vartur,
have just had enough, walking a pretty long stretch along the lake.
I am stopped on this section by a few labourers who insist I take
their picture in front of the waters rendered foamy by detergent.
I am spent, and even after the run, my legs feel uncharacteristically
sore, to the point where changing positions is a project.
Now, full rest for the last week, which I look forward to.
Have been progressing through Surah Balad.
-- Along Vartur Lake --
Kaveri Trail Marathon DNF (16.3 Miles) -- 09/15/13
Time: 2:32:10
6.5 Miles: 0:59:10
13.1 Miles: 1:03:16
to Km 6: 0:29:44
Pace (through the half): 9'20" / mile
Mileage: 16.3 Miles
Complete failure!
I soon realize that I don't feel good, and that it's not going to get
any better! So after the half, take a walk break, than run back to
meet Ruksanna, and we finish walking together.
On top of my evident lack of shape, probably due to that coughing
illness that has plagued me in the last month, I've made some really
poor gearing decisions: I'm wearing my long shorts which are quickly
drenched and heavy with sweat, and my water belt, completely useless
given the frequency of aid stations.
All that said, it's a nice event. I wished I had been able to enjoy
it in better circumstances. The long run last week was a mistake,
although who knows how things might have turned out otherwise. It
feels I was bound to fail no matter what.
But still a good day in other ways. Ruksanna covers the whole distance,
and we finish holding hands!
After Nikah (8.9 Miles) -- 09/29/13
Imadihalli - trail to Chansandra - N. Trail -
Naugondanahalli - Ajgondanahalli - Low road -
Vartur.
Time: 1:22:23
Mileage: 8.9 Miles
Wght: 69.9 kg / 154.1 lbs
My first run as a (re)married man. Weather particularly pleasant.
On the way back, try through the fields near Vartur shortcut
to Ozone, but the bridge over the river has collapsed, rendering
it impassable.
Surah Balad -- 10/01/13
Imadihalli - Trail to Midway Temple - GandhiPuram - S. around the Hill -
Holy Cross - Elim - ECC - Pattandur
Time: 0:52:24
Mileage: 5.6 Miles
Wght: 70.8 kg / 156.1 lbs
I have completed Surah Balad, finally, the longest one to date.
Met Sonu Khan on the way, announced him my recent Nikah.
-- Surah Balad --
Surah Humaza (9.4 Miles) -- 10/07/13
Vartur - Harohalli Road - Valepura - Ajgondanahalli -
Naugondanahalli - Midway Temple - Vijay Nagar Hill -
Holy Cross - Elim - ECC - Pattandur
Time: 1:26:43
Mileage: 9.4 Miles
Wght: 70.9 kg / 156.3 lbs
Having not run over the weekend, run long today.
Very pleasant, perfect weather, sunny but not yet hot.
Easy comfortable pace, practicing Surah Houmaza, and recapping
all the other ones. Meet the guy from the Lake Community on the
way, tell him about my marriage, he asks me why didn't I invite
them over?
-- Surah Humaza --
Surah Asr -- 10/11/13
Wednesday 10/09/13 -- Chansandra Night Route
Chansandra - Hope Farm - Prashanth Layout - Dog Alley - ITPL
Time: 0:52:00
Mileage: 5.6 Miles
Wght: 71 kg / 156.5 lbs
Wednesday:
Like yesterday, heavy stormy rain ceases just in time for the run,
leaving to very pleasant conditions actually (and wet roads).
My breath feels perfect, but concerning pain in the lower back
since yesterday.
I have already completed Sourah Houmaza, thanks to prior reading
practice.
Friday:
Have cancelled all runs until further notice due to back pain. The pain
is on the right lower back, particularly triggered by trying to stretch
the right hamstring (to the point where I can't even do Ruku in Namaz).
Have learned Surah Asr, pretty much in a single day, thanks to many
prior readings.
-- Surah Asr --
Surah Takathur (9.6 Miles) -- 10/20/13
N. Gate - Vartur - Madhuranagar - Kotur: 0:46:26
Harohalli - Timandhalli - Ajgondanahalli - Imadihalli - Hagadur: 0:42:40
Time: 1:29:05
Mileage: 9.6 Miles
Wght: 70.7 kg / 155.9 lbs
Run into Anjan. Big motorcycle. Man stops, asks address. Eventually
reveals he's an Ozone Security guard, concerned for my safety. These
local people are not proper, says he. I explain these are old friends.
Learning Surah Takathur.
-- Surah Takathur --
Chansandra Night Route -- 10/25/13
Tuesday 10/22/13 --
Imadihalli - Whitefield - Borewell - Nellurahalli - Pattandur
Time: 0:44:38
Mileage: 4.8 Miles
Wght: 70.7 kg / 155.9 lbs
Wednesday 10/23/13 -- Chansandra Night Route
Time: 1:02:12
Mileage: 6.5 Miles (slower pace)
Wght: 70.7 kg / 155.9 lbs
Thursday 10/24/13 -- Chansandra Night Route
Time: 0:58:39
Mileage: 6.3 Miles (same route as yesterday, but this feels more accurate)
Friday 10/25/13 -- Chansandra Night Route
Time: 1:00:09
Mileage: 6.3 Miles (continuing the variations in pace)
Wght: 71.2 kg / 157 kg
Bad night again, woke up at 3:20. Pretty big worries about Zameer,
but even more so about Uncle's plans.
Woke up around 3:30 again, but miraculously fell back asleep until 4.
This changes everything. A slow but very enjoyable pace.
Finished Surah Takathur. Should probably chew on what I know for a little
bit before proceeding with other Surahs.
As yesterday, cycling through all Surah's I know, from Takathur onwards,
and Balad. Pretty good handle on things.
More exploration near Samethnahalli (14.4 Miles) -- 10/27/13
Vartur - Muthsandra - Junction: 0:57:46
Left, straight to Samethnahalli: 0:32:30
Naugondanahalli - Imadihalli - Ozone: 0:43:46
Time: 2:13:29
Mileage: 14.4 Miles
Wght: 70.8 kg / 156 lbs
More Harohalli kids on bikes on the way from Vartur, this time Rakesh.
In Madhuranagar, I get called as I pass Shilpa's house, as they've all
gathered outside in the small court. I pass by gesturing to my watch,
but regretfull retrace my steps back a little later, stay there a few
minutes to talk. But of course, we can't get very far with their Kannada.
Later, past Muthsandra, I see a particularly monstrous dog, its face
grossly deformed and swollen like a beast from horror films, his breathing
making a raucous noise. Luckily, the poor animal isn't aggressive. And then
later on the country road, I see a huge tall dog coming out of an isolated
house, like a Great Dane, really surprising out here. He too turns out
peaceful.
I for once take the direct road to Samethanahalli, which quickly turns
into dirt, traversing occasional hamlets. After Samethanahalli, a man
stops me to ask, where are you from, where did you come from, how much
money do you make? He shows his field, where he grows gobi and other
things. I wade in mud through the rice fields, and even have to step
in the water at the river crossing, one of the bridge stones being
completely immersed.
-- Surah Qariyah --
Surah Qariah (8 Miles) -- 11/17/13
Vartur - low road - valepura - ajgondanahalli
Naugondanahalli - midway temple - vijay nagar -
Gandhipuram - hagadur
Time: 1:14:04
Mileage: 8 Miles
Wght: 70.2 kg / 154.8 kg
Have learned Surah Qariah.
A run of small inconveniences (13 Miles) -- 11/24/13
Vartur - Baligere - Pattanur -
Gunjur Palika - Gunjur - Beautiful road -
Trail to Tippasandra - Vartur
Time: 2:00:08
Mileage: 13 Miles
Wght: 70.8 kg / 156.1 lbs
A run of small inconveniences.
Wasn't planning on something quite as long.
Aunti ka Khanna has made me fart pungently
all night, and on the run, i am eventually
Stopped by an urge to poo. So i stop in a field,
sitting like Ruksanna has taught me, and
unfortunately have to use my drinking water to wash.
Later, my SLC shorts keep dropping, which
infuriates me, but i eventually think of tying
my little towel to tighten the waist. Feel much
better after that.
The roads are in constant transformation, manufactured for the
unbelievable rate of building construction. I actually get lost on the way
back, because of a change in trails, end up in someone's property where a
kind watchman unlocks a gate to put me on the road to Vartur.
Like normal people -- 11/28/13
Imadihalli - Chansandra (trail) - Vijay Nagar (trail, narrow gate) -
Holy Cross - Elim - Worker's trail - Lake Trail
Time: 0:53:13
Mileage: 5.7 Miles
Wght: 70.8 kg / 156.1 lbs
Gym: 1/2 hour upper body workout -
-- Surah Aadiyah --
Surah Aadiyah -- 12/11/13
Chansandra Night Route
Time: 0:59:46
Mileage: 6.5 Miles
Wght: 70.7 lbs / 155.9 lbs
Had to leave even earlier (5:35am). No daylight until after Hope Farm,
but public lighting generally sufficient (a few patches of darkness).
Finished first pass at Surah Adiyaah.
Opening a New Route to ITPL (9.2 Miles) -- 12/15/13
W. Trail - Dunmore House - Accenture - EPIP - BassawanaNagar - Dirt trail
near lake to Main Road - Past Zuri - ITPL: 0:57:37
Pattandur - Nellurahalli - Borewell rd - PM Hamlet - T-Zed: 0:27:19
Time: 1:24:54
Mileage: 9.2 Miles
This opens a new 1hr route to ITPL, although the last main road segment
is not ideal. Still an alternate to the Chansandra Night Route. Perhaps further
refinements will allow to avoid the road, trying to circumnavigate Hoodi Lake.
The cult of AyappaSwami -- 12/17/13
Tuesday 12/17/13 -- Chansandra Night Route
Time: 1:00:05
Mileage: 6.5 Miles
Wght: 71.3 kg / 157.2 lbs
Wednesday 12/18/13 -- BassavanaNagar Night Route
Main Road - Siddapura - Nellurahalli - Accenture - EPIP -
BassavaNagar - Trail shortcut - Main Road past Zuri - ITPL
Time: 1:05:42
Mileage: 7.1 Miles
Thursday 12/19/13 -- Chansandra Night Route
Time: 1:00:09
Mileage: 6.5 Miles
Tuesday:
The temples are loud with chants, the cult of AyappaSwami according
to Ruksanna, which could go on for up to a month. Also, many people
gathered around small fires as the day slowly rises, could it be
because of the cult, or just the cold morning temperature?
Have started Surah Zalzala, although had a complete memory failure
this morning on others during Namaaz.
Wednesday:
Tried this for the first time. Lighting insufficient on the main road,
leaving patches of utter darkness. Day break around Accenture. Run is
pleasant from there, pretty quiet in early morning, but the last section
of main road is painful. It would take more exploration to try to
circumvent it, if at all possible, perhaps by staying closer to the
shores of Hoodi Lake.
Thursday:
Left extra early today around 5:15 (for a 6:30am meeting).
Luckily, I feel great, having finally reversed the sleep curse: I did
wake up as usual at 1:30, but this time managed to sleep back with no
problem. I wake up again around 4:20 feeling rested, unlike previous
days where my exhaustion had built up to alarming levels.
It's full night of course, but this route provides decent public lighting,
making it the only truly viable "night route" that I can think of, with
the exception of the approach to Prestige Langleigh (near ECC) which is
pitch dark. Daybreak around Pattandur as I'm reaching ITPL.
Streets are even quieter of course. Dogs are fine.
-- Surah Zalzala --
Surah Zalzala (10.7 Miles) -- 12/20/13
Friday 12/20/13 -- Hoodi Long Route
Main road - W. Trail - Nellurahalli - Accenture: 0:29:19
Kundanahalli Lake - BrookeField - BasawanaNagar - Hoodi: 0:33:38
Kodigehalli - Sadaramangala - ITPL: 0:36:03
Time: 1:39:00
Mileage: 10.7 Miles
Wght: 72 kg / 158.7 lbs
Had cancelled morning meeting, so take this opportunity to do a nice
long run, which could be the last of the year. Slow, easy, very
pleasant pace, in the chilly morning weather.
Left at 6. Crossing the Kundalahalli slum is particularly intense
today, a half wooden barrier has been built there at the entrance
of the lake, and a dog won't let me go. I'm helped somewhat by
the slumdwellers. Much pooping outside at this early hour.
Looks like the caravan people have moved back near Nellurahalli,
therefore not found near Hoodi. The loop there is very pleasant,
low trafic. Here too, every plot of land is sadly being converted
to luxury villas or high-rises, soon, this landscape will have been
completely transformed. I was going to explore venturing further out
towards a more distant lake, but missed a good road. Looking at the
map later, it's just as well, as I should plan for this a little.
I'm definitely back to the conclusion that I'm made for these
quiet metitative solitary endurance efforts. The sessions at the gym,
which I plan to resume, seemed to have thrown me off-balance, leading
to a concerning exhaustion, perhaps due to the reduction in running
time. Paradoxically, I feel much more energetic when running these
longer routes, with an hour a day seeming like the right recipe.
Focusing on Surah Zalzala.
-- On the way to Nagore with Shaafi's family --
-- Nagore --