-- Lake Tahoe, down to Emerald Bay --
-- Crescent City to Cave Junction and back,
with Madeleine and Terra --
-- Ruksanna discovering Notre Dame de Paris --
-- A day at Versailles --
-- Along the tracks, field near the new shortcut --
New Way -- 01/17/17
Walk: 1:05:00
ITPL - Down to Sadarmangala - Along the Tracks - New Shortcut through
the alleys, to Hoodi Main Road - Main Gate Shantiniketan.
Wght: 72.1 kg / 158.9 lbs
I walked back from IPTL around mid-day via the Sadarmangala
route, only to find the Shantiniketan back-gate closed. It opens
back at 4:30 I'm told, so I decide to take this opportunity
to put my walking plan into action. This should be a way to gradually
ramp back up till I can run.
I therefore embark on a loop along the Sadaramangala
running route, along the rail track. On the dirt trail,
I see from a distance a young couple seemingly joking around
from a distance, the man pulling the girl's arm as if in play.
But no, approaching closer, this is an actual fight, the young
woman cries in Kannada as the man is dragging her away from the
train stop, a couple onlookers silently picking up her bag.
I pass my way without any courage, not interfering, and not
knowing the circumstances of their dispute. Somehow this reminds
me of Nazia's demented violent outbursts, and I find myself unable
to judge the use of violence.
It's sunny and beautiful, somewhat cool. I execute an old plan
which is to find an even shorter shortcut through the fields
and alleys, by-passing Hoodi. Past the perimeter of the haughty
towers of Shantiniketan, I walk on the side of the tracks (not
alone in this as usual), looking for some promising trail.
At first, I pass a large parcel of land kept surprisingly
wild, beautiful in the sun, pressed between the tracks and
the main road, forgotten by construction. Then it's a small
labourer's settlement, one of those community of tents that
I used to visit, this one well situated, with cattle grazing
around. The village starts here, little block constructions,
and I soon find a dirt trail leading to the maze of small
alleys. There's always a certain apprehension in entering
new territory like this, but as often, all is pleasant and
peaceful in the lazy afternoon, leading to a road that looks
familiar - although how different do things look walking
rather than running, in reverse direction, and under the mid-day
sun rather than early morning!
I'm very satisfied with this small exploration, which I had
planned for some time, never finding the freedom to do it.
The rhythm of the walk apeases me.
The Long Walk -- 01/21/17
Walk: 1:42:30
Back Gate - Sadarmangala, along the tracks towards Hoodi - Kodigehalli rd.
Detour on dirt route to the area of the temple and back - Kodigehalli.
Wght: 72.2 kg / 159.2 lbs
I can't run, but I can walk.
I plan a very cautious ramp-up till the moment where I should be
able to run again, in theory three months after the surgery.
Ever since returning from France, I have not felt very good,
victim of a particular severe case of mental fog, which leaves
me tired and somewhat listless. In addition, I have not been able
to find back the power of praying Namaaz, unable to muster the concentration,
after a lull where, mostly due to lack of intimity, I was hardly observing
Fajr ki Namaaz. I have resolved to rebuilt my repertoire gradually, this
week focusing on remembering the long string of Surah's from Burooj
onwards, throughout the day. I will deliberately repeat this scheme
all week, a good opportunity for a full revision, and will move back
to the longer Surahs later.
I suspect the mental fog is aggravated by the lack of running,
whose deprivation is starting to take effect now that I start to feel
better. I miss the outdoors, the gentle morning sun, the wind ...
So let's try walking for now.
It's a foggy relatively chilly morning. On the dirt road along the
tracks, all the way towards Kodigehalli road, I cross seemingly unending
groups of beggars, mostly women and children with cows, walking as if
they were going to work. Some sollicit me, but I refuse them politely,
arguing to myself as shakily as ever that these people are young and
able enough that they should really be working.
Reaching Kodigehalli road, I decide to explore a bit straight
on the dirt road towards the Temple in the Field, an area
that I haven't visited in a very long time. It hasn't been defaced
by construction yet, and I'm not alone exercising in this still barren
area - a large group is playing cricket in a field. Continuing forward,
it feels more isolated still. It looks like I could reach the road near
Montfort College, but a man burning garbage among a herd of pigs decides
me to turn back. This is far enough anyway, much farther than I had plan.
Indeed, after reaching back the tracks near Shantiniketan, I am surprised
at how long this took: Almost 1h45 ...
I've taken the opportunity to do a thorough revision of Surah Mulk,
like in the running days. In spite
of this unexpectedly long duration, I have time for only two full rehearsals.
But I feel ready to recite it in Namaaz again...
-- By the passing trains --
By the Passing Trains -- 01/23/17
Walk: 0:46:00
PSN Main Gate - Main rd towards Hoodi - Shortcut to the tracks -
Sadarmangala - ITPL.
Wght: 72.2 kg / 159.2 lbs
I decide today to implement my new walking road to IPTL, explored a few
days ago.
I start on the main road. It's later in the morning than during
my habitual runs, and I have to adjust to the stupid traffic, particularly
those damn motorbikes driving on the side against traffic, which keep
surprising me from behind! Anyway, I soon make it to the somewhat quieter
alleys, and through the new shortcut, to the rail tracks of Sadarmangala.
Here, it's a long unending line of workers, most clad in yellow helmet,
women of strength and beauty,
walking from the settlements to the numerous construction sites.
It's a beautiful clear morning. The large field observed the other
day is even more poetic in the morning light, and busy with early activity
(it seems for a moment that the labourers and I are contemplating each
other from a distance, standing next to the peaceful grazing cows).
I am not alone along the tracks. At times, there isn't much place
on the side, and near Hoodi, the way is down to two tracks, trains
coming in succession at this hour. One passes right by me and other
walkers, fast, its wind hitting us. Luckily, no-one has thrown anything
out the window! I soon descend down the familiar trail to the road
leading up to ITPL.
I reach work in about 45 minutes, this time taking far less
than anticipated! Good news, this is a very good route for the future.
I've used the time for a detailed methodical rehearsal of Surah
Muzzammil, it too ready again for Namaaz.
But I have perhaps pushed it a little too much these last days.
Yesterday, I insisted against Ruksanna's advice to help her
lift the Samaan in Vartur Bazaar, and I have done a couple mild
home gym sessions. Well, unfortunately, I now feel a renewed slight
pain in the lower abdomen, a reminder that I need to be cautious
with recovery.
Peacocks -- 01/27/17
-- Wild Peacocks in Elaruvi --
The New Way -- 01/31/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 01/31/17 --
Home gym: 0:27:00
Sequence: chest (flies) - biceps - shoulders (flies) - triceps.
Low weight / Hi reps.
Walk: 1:00:00
Classic Hoodi / Sadarmangala route.
Total Time: 1:27:00
Wght: 71.8 kg / 158.3 lbs
Yesterday's exhaustion, to the point where i wonder if i'll make it.
Diffcult return to work.
Could this depression be fueled by running deprivation?
Decide to beat it. Re establish routine. Up at 5, qur'an, surah baqara,
then namaaz waqi'ah, which concludes my grand revision.
In spite of pain, i decide that there is no choice but to resume
some form of activity. So again a low weight gym session, followed
by walking along the full hoodi running route. Figure out nutrition
now that it is no longer provided in office. Torn between the desire
to diet more strictly yet being sickeningly exhausted at various
points in the day, dizzy.
I have resumed learning forward, the last verse of surah baqara,
which i had presumptuously written before the break, but hadn't
touched since.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 02/01/17 --
Classic Kodigehalli loop.
Time: 1:40:00
Wght: 71.8 kg / 158.3 lbs
A bad night of insomnia. This week is not going well. I fear a new
bout of depression, comparable to the Mumbai episode.
But then a long walk, which I actually prolong as I'm trying to regain
hope. I spend the time learning Surah Baqara, contemplating the outside,
trying to recapture my previous state. My namaaz is still uneven,
challenging, its success its own goal.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 02/03/17 --
Walk: Again, Classic Kodigehalli Loop.
Time: 1:35:00
Wght: 71.8 kg / 158.3 lbs
Again, up early around 4:30. Finished reading Surah Baqara,
then Surah Yaseen in Namaaz, feeling better.
The side of the main road impractical, work is going on, large
rocks, gravel, etc., which pushes into the aggressive traffic.
Even through the "village shortcut", the traffic is a problem.
Where did those boards forbidding yellow plates from taking
these small roads? They pour in, aggressive, honking pedestrians
out of the way with an angry air.
It gets calmer on Kodigehalli road. Beautiful morning. I pause
to discreetly take a photo of a dust-swiping woman in the
morning sun, which I had not taken last time (and regretted),
but it's not as good today. I continue to learn the last aayat
of Baqara, patiently, convinced that the conclusion of the Surah
will make for a powerful Namaaz, a great companion piece
to the Moussibat verses.
But I'm way too tired in the morning, and feel completely
ineffectual at work till lunch, where I can finally take
a short nap (I've recovered that talent it seems, which
had evaded me since returning to work).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- In Kodigehalli --
-- Through the Train Depot --
The Riddle to the East -- 02/08/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 02/07/17 --
Walk: PSN Back Gate - Sadaramangala / Kodigehalli loop - ITPL.
Time: 1:19:00
Wght: 72 kg / 158.7 lbs
Up around 4:00/4:30. After reading further into
Surah Imraan, Namaaz constitutes of Surah Muzzammil then Mulk,
which seems to have become the routine.
On the way through Kodigehalli, two women sitting on their heels
on the side of the road, colored by the morning light. I turn back soon
disappointed at myself for not taking the picture, but they seemed to be
starting at me as well, and I cower. Just a little later,
in the beautiful little
trail, a sort of tunnel of vegetation opened by a ring of pink flowers, a man
is sitting as a shadowy silhouette, perfectly framed. But here too, I refrain
from taking the picture.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 02/08/17 --
Walk: Village shortcut - Sadarmangala - through the Train Depot -
To ITPL main road.
Time: 1:12:00
Wght: 72 kg / 158.7 lbs
A new exploration today !
Up again at 4:30, but feeling great, which gives me strength
to recite Surah Yaseen.
Zoia, accompanied by the inevitable boudi her grand-mother,
has slept at home, in Ruksanna's efforts to still make Aadhaar card for
the children (which won't unfortunately won't happen). In the morning,
her and I accompany Sofia to the school bus, the two little sisters,
and I set off from there.
It's such a beautiful clear morning that I decide to prolong the
walk, inspired to finally see through this long postponed exploration
through the rail depot near Kodigehalli, hoping to find a way back
to the main road.
I cross the many tracks, trying to find a way through on the
South side of the rails. Two men ask about my unusual appearance,
and we converse friendily in Hindi (they are of course curious!). They
indicate to me the way, which is actually further to the East. I Walk
along the hangars, nearly deserted, somewhat like a movie set
with rays of light in the morning dust. Rare workers or truck drivers
see me pass by, with no particular attention. Funnily, I decide to
conceal my wallet inside my Cheddi, probably an unnecessary
precaution. I soon find a quiet road that leads to the ITPL main road,
finally concluding this mystery, satisfied with this small exploration.
I have finished learning the last verse of Surah Baqara.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Exploring the way to the Main Road --
-- Fog near Kodigehalli --
In the Fog -- 02/12/17
Walk: Hoodi (crossed on the KRPuram side) - Kodigehalli Loop.
Time: 1:24:00
Wght: 72.4 kg / 159.6 lbs
A walk on this nice cool Sunday morning.
For once, I cross the Hoodi train tracks to the West of
the station, from where a dirt road continues along the tracks.
What could be beyond? But I postpone that exploration to
revert towards the Sadarmangala / Kodigehalli area. I have decided
to not walk much more than an hour, hoping to be back to wake
up Ruksanna.
I gently rejoice in the usual show of small morning scenes,
here people exercising on the train platform, there a group of
men assembled in the deserted street around a Chaivalla.
A young woman in neat school uniform gestures a man on
a two-wheeler, who stops to give her a ride.
The morning was clear and crisp, but strangely, a dense
fog has descended over the Kodigehalli area. I have to stop often
to pee, as usual on these morning walks, cleaning myself as I
can, a semi-symbolic wudhu, as I continue to rehearse Qur'anic
verses along the way. The fog has gotten so dense as to change
the landscape, and I stop to take a few pictures. For some reason,
this saddens me somewhat, as if we all lived for Facebook, and I
feel taken away from the last verses of Surah Baqara, my latest
endeavour.
When I return home, Ruksanna is already up, I missed her
in bed.
-- Small Trail near Kodigehalli --
The Trail of Trash -- 02/16/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 02/14/17 --
Walk: Hoodi / Kodigehalli loop.
Time: 1:36:30
Wght: 72.2 kg / 159.2 lbs
Along the walk, scenes of morning life.
Her an adolescent girl, sitting in front of the slum,
clothes dirty and unkempt, abandoned as if in rapture in
her touchscreen phone. Later, a beautiful girl, so perfectly
dressed, coming out of a slum tent community on her
way to school, ravishing. Along the "shortcut", I pass the
usual long procession of labourers, men with yellow hats,
women strong and of animal beauty, a mix of savage air
and grace in movement. There are also groups of pigs
in the area, on the side of the road, and to the left of
the road, I pass a small wood entirely littered with plastic
bags, creating a rhythm against the tree trunks.
This is all well and fine, but are these walks reviving
my pain, postponing my recovery ?
-- "Naïgullu --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 02/16/17 --
Walk: Hoodi - Ayappa Nagar - Kodigehalli - Sadarmangala - ITPL.
Time: 1:53:00
Wght: 72 kg / 158.7 lbs
A bad call yesterday has renewed my doubts and thrown
me back in a terrible mood. After an early wake-up, reading Surah
Nisaa and reciting Surah Yaseen in Namaaz, I set out a little
earlier, without taking Sofia to the bus, with the idea of doing a longer
walk.
This is another classic running route, through the W. Side of the
Hoodi station and on to Ayappa Nagar. But it's not such a good idea,
as the streets are too busy with traffic, not only pollution but general
aggression of the vehicles, which takes away from my meditative
Qur'an rehearsing.
It abates a little in the Kodigehalli area.
It's a very clear sunny morning,
gradually warmer. I stop for a few photos, one of which I had neglected
to take last time, of the "path of garbage". This leads me to the area
of the pigs, which I approach to photograph as well, with trepidation
(one big one looks particularly ominous). The scene turns out to
nothing, so I actually renounce taking the picture, my heart beating
a little from the proximity of the beast.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- The Wood of Trash --
Good Results, or the Funny Steps -- 02/23/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 02/20/17 --
Home gym: 0:24:00
Biceps shoulders
Walk: hoodi sadarmangala
Time: 1:06:00
Weight: 71.6 kg / 157.8 lbs
Very slow, deliberate, study. Finished learning
one more verse (one before last).
Not sure this is all right. Underlying pains (or sensation rather)
in lower abdomen.
Pyramid up to sets of 100s.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 02/21/17 --
Walk: Shortcut through alleys, along the tracks.
Time: 1:00:00
Wght: 71.6 kg / 157.8 lbs
Very poor sleep! Got up at 4, reading for Surah Maa'idah,
with its strong diatribes against the jews. A novelty, seeing
the time left before Namaaz, elect to first recite Surah
Muzzammil as Naafil (appropriate for the evocations of
night reading), then all of Surah Yaseen during Fajr itself,
both at a good level.
On the walk, in spite of fatigue, same deliberately slow
wandering pace as yesterday, consolidating the last
two verses of Surah Baqara before starting the 3rd
one. It is very sunny, announcing the summer heat.
It's strangely quiet though along the tracks, peaceful,
with plunging views into the perimeter of Shantiniketan.
(It's the first time that I walk the tracks along this
entire stretch).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 02/22/17 --
Walk: Hoodi - Sadarmangala route.
Time: 1:05:00
Wght: 71.9 kg / 158.5 lbs
Up at 4, but a little less tired. Similarly, Full Surah Yaseen, excellent quality, followed by the same slow pace walk, starting another verse.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 02/23/17 --
Same route.
Time: 1:04:10
Wght: 71.9 kg / 158.5 lbs
Up at 4:00 again, but feeling fresh! Very fortuitous, as this is the morning
of our divorce mediation, at 5:30 ...
The session goes better than
I had anticipated, without much argument. I put away my artillery of
arguments largely unused.
The morning is sunny and hotter. I should feel happy, yet this
sort of victory without a battle has left me
tainted by a touch of guilt, which I can't quite shake off. That will
largely wear out later in the day as I discover documents that had been
concealed.
In the afternoon, we go to Manipal Hospital to meet Dr Dubey.
It has been three months since the surgery, and now is time for the first
PSA test, to confirm that there are no remaining traces of cancer.
All is good !!!
AND, Dr Dubey says I should be able
to resume running ..........
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 02/24/17 --
Walk: PSN Back Gate - Kodigehalli loop.
Time: 1:30:00
Wght: 71.9 kg / 158.5 lbs
Up again at 4am.
In what is becoming a tradition, I use these extra-early wake-ups
to recite Surah Muzzammil before the morning Adhan, in two additional
rakats, then Surah Yaseen in Namaaz, a powerful delivery today, of those
that agitate the body.
It's a beautiful morning, cooled down a bit from yesterday's heat.
I feel strong from the multiple good news.
I walk the Kodigehalli loop, to the many morning vignettes. Here
a mother combs her daughter's long black hair, sitting on the ground,
well framed by their cinder-block settlement. In the early years, I would
have certainly taken the photo, but now, I object to the zoo aspect,
although my relationships with these people were complex. Later, through
the little village, a woman is gathering gober directly from the cow's
ass with a metal pot, striking her to shit some more.
I finished the three last verses of Surah Baqarah, although as usual,
they will need strengthening before being ready for Namaaz.
Next week, running ??????????
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Sunrise over Kadugodi --
First Run (3.25 Miles) -- 02/28/17
Tuesday 02/28/17 -- FIRST RUN
Inside Shantiniketan, 3 rounds outer road.
Time: 0:36:25
1 Lap: 1.08 Miles (1.75 Km)
Mileage: 3.25 Miles (5.25 Km)
Pace: 11'12"/mile
Wght: 71.9 kg / 158.5 lbs
Today is the day. After an over three month interruption,
I will return to running.
But last night, I think I've seen another one of these nightmarish
dreams where my urine came out as a stream of blood.
Up at 4:30, reading and Namaaz, and then I resume my old routine
with stretching, as Ruksanna is getting up. I start out around 6am, at the
start of light.
I hesitate between a short run outside, or cautiously staying within
the perimeter of Shantiniketan. I wonder if I should structure this as a
mirror image of my last runs before the operation. Reason sets in, and I opt
for a few rounds around the outer road.
It's quiet at this time, before the circus of the various school buses
starts, a few wanderers, mostly women or caretakers taking their dogs for
a walk, or rare runners. It's luckily still
comfortably fresh in the morning in
spite of the increased heat during the day, and even inside the community,
the thrill of the morning is present. The runs feels
oddly normal, body a little
stiff, but breathing easy and relaxed. Soon, the old sensations came back,
as if imprinted like a language, the morning air feels a certain way against
the gathering sweat, and the waves of goodness, unmistakable,
fill the brain. I complete my three rounds while confirming my mastery of
the three last verses of Surah Baqara, preparing for their use in Namaaz.
Back home, subtle pains which I choose to ignore, and I feel
almost surprisingly fine - although let's see how this develops. I resolve
to not run more than every other day for this week, and around half an hour.
That's it, and my urine is clear.
-- Ruksanna breathing in the jungle, Elaruvi --
Morning Chaos -- 03/02/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 03/01/17 --
Walk: Hoodi / Sadaramangala route.
Time: 1:06:00
Wght: 72.2 kg / 159.2 lbs
I witnessed an accident yesterday while walking to work.
In the every busy traffic, a car hit a young woman with
a backpack. Her body flew slightly under the shock, seeming
to go limp in mid-air - or at least, that's what I think I saw, that
moment where I think she lost consciousness, that image
will stay with me, and I use it to impress the kids about the
dangers of the road. The driver, a
burly man probably a driver, immediately got out of his car to help.
Sleepless night, and as usual, find Ruksanna
in the kitchen.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 03/02/17 --
Home Gym: 0:38:00
Sequence: Abs - Bar Press - Shoulders - Biceps - Punches.
Up to 40 * 8kg on the Chest Press.
Walk: Sadarmangala, through shortcut to the tracks.
Time: 0:55:30.
Total time: 1:33:30
Wght: 71.9 kg / 158.5 lbs
As soon as I exit Shantiniketan, I witness yet another loud
dispute about some accident. But at least, nothing as serious
as the other day.
A little further, vehicles driving against traffic are common, but
this time, it's a gas truck, shamelessly taking traffic in reverse,
encumbering the busy morning road. And then, a woman
addresses me in Kannada, as if she was asking for directions,
but it turns out she's begging for money, and at my refusal continues
in Kannada, pestering against me.
All this typical main road chaos goes exactly against the
idyllic notion of a morning walk!
It gets a little quieter along the tracks, although a train
must have offloaded long groups of walkers on the dirt trail
whom I join,
people going to work, beautiful women, some wrapping their
face in cloth, letting out captivating eyes.
I'm still not mastering those last verses as I'd like, often
distracted by the many things at work or outside.
-- Alongs the tracks, Sadarmangala --
Outside (4.8 Miles) -- 03/03/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 03/03/17 -- Outside !
PSN front gate - Hoodi - Ayappa Nagar - Kodigehalli rd -
Back to Sadarmangala - PSN back gate.
Mileage: 4.8 Miles - 7.7 Km.
Time: 0:52:26
Pace: 10'55"/mile
Wght: 71.9 kg / 156.5 lbs
Ruksanna up early, activity! Gym and Zumba yesterday, reading
and writing today!
First run outside. Running better for traffic than walking,
in a natural dodging position. Enivre by the outside, can't quite
discipline myself to follow the plan, and embark on a detour
through Ayappa Nagar. A group of pigs in front of a construction
site (why are pigs so common in this whole area??)
What pain! Upper body from yesterday's gym, hamstrings from
last run. Feels good nonetheless, and I'm happy to firm up these
last Baqara verses, within reach.
I finally look at my time on arrival: Around 50 minutes. Definitely
exceeded the 30 minute plan. Hope that's not a mistake.
-- Kodigehalli temple, rising sun --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 03/05/17 --
Kodigehalli loop.
Time: 0:46:44
Mileage: 4.4 Miles - 7.05 Km
Pace: 10'37"/mile
Wght: 71.6 kg / 157.8 lbs
Boudi and Zoia at home.
Yesterday, on one of those aimless days, Ruksanna
insisted on taking me to the steam, the Sauna
at the Shantiniketan Gym for which she has a discovered
passion this week. I am at first reluctant, especially since
we'll be separated, but in this horrible listless mood, I
eventually submit to her will.
And she was right, the session, though weird, did
help clear the mental haze that was holding me.
Today, Murugmala.
Still stiff, but decided to persist. Episodic pain last time, but
decided to persist.
Reluctant to go through the shortcut, and I was right, on a quiet
Sunday morning, the dogs heed my passage more than usual and it's
a barking concert! But no problem.
Have mastered those verses it seems. They are very good.
-- The last three Aayat of Surah Baqara --
"Road is not good" -- 03/08/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 03/08/17 -- After the storm
Sadarmangala / Kodigehalli loop, from and to Back Gate.
Mileage: 3.4 Miles - 5.5 Km
Time: 0:34:29
Pace: 10'08" / mile
Wght: 72 kg / 158.7 lbs
Horrible week. The dizziness, exhaustion. Ruksanna takes good care of me.
Last night, a violent storm, release from the heat, the "dry"
noise of near thunder
woke me up in a fright, sounding more like a missile.
In spite of the exhaustion, I get up at 4, mind polluted by
bagvas, determined
to attempt to do something about it. So I stick back to my old routine,
zabardasti,
determined to force my way through so to speak, not give in.
Sometimes it works,
sometimes not.
A long Quranic reading allows me to finish Surah Anfal (about
war), then long Namaaz, first Surah Muzzammil then the 3 first Rukus of Surah
Yaseen. This indeed seems to have helped. I have attained the broadening
of vision I was seeking, and my stupid insomniac debates seem petty by now.
I spend time waking up Ruksanna lovingly.
Again, determined to tough it out rather that cower,
I resolve to run today.
It's wet from the night's storm. As I cross the
rail tracks among the usual
procession of workers, a beautiful young man turns to me with a white
smile, Sir, the road, not good, wanting to save me from the mud,
as people in the slums used to do. I respond in Hindi that I don't care,
I like
running. Indeed, it's a slalom at first between large puddles, at least, the
trail is just about deserted today, except for a large gathering of garbage
pickers.
The run is good, although a bit short of breath, but the soreness seems
dissipated (almost the invert of previous runs). The rain hasn't cooled down
the air much, it feels muggy and sweaty - yet pleasnt. I try to push the
pace ever
so slightly, to bring it back to something more reasonable. Looping back
on the Sadarmangala dirt road from before, a young man on a bike addresses
me a friendly hand wave. I wonder if it's that same guy from before.
I have definitely mastered those last verses.
And the bet has paid off. I feel much better that day, no more dizziness.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Alongs the tracks, Sadarmangala --
Saturday Morning Syndrome (5.2 Miles) -- 03/11/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 03/11/17 -- Ayappa Nagar - Kodigehalli.
PSN Main Gate - Through Hoodi - Ayappa Nagar - Kodigehalli - Back Gate.
Mileage: 5.2 Miles - 8.4 Km
Time: 0:53:34
Pace: 10'18" / mile
Wght: 72 kg / 158.7 lbs
Deliberately attempting an antidote to the dreaded
Saturday Morning Syndrome. Run on Saturday rather
than Sunday morning, to avoid staying home immediately after
the work week. We'll see if that works out ...
Getting ready at 4:30, but Ruksanna has gotten up too. She's
bought a few children's learning books (again) and I look
at her padhai. She's learning number spellings,
and I correct her mixing of capital and small letters.
The Adhan comes on my phone around 5:20, so I go up
for Namaaz, using now the three verses of Baqara to great effect.
Ruksanna
has gone back to sleep, so I slip out as planned.
Rising sun, somewhat
hot but still pleasant. Yesterday evening, we tried to sleep a little on the
balcony, but the mosquitoes, even on the 18th floor, wouldn't let us!
This is a great run! I have started learning Surah Imran (whose first
verses come easily), an ambitious plan to master the first and last
rukus as yet another option for Namaaz. I opt for a longer run again,
still cautious, combining Ayappa Nagar and Kodigehalli routes. It's
reasonably quiet on a Saturday morning, perfect, and I run towards
the red rising sun, feeling good, breathing in control, just pushing
the pace enough to feel the effort.
In the last stretch, start to feel pain on the outer right knee,
but switching to the right side of the road, an outward incline,
seems to fix it. I finish well in control and satisfied.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- In Murugmala --
Through the Train Depot (5 Miles) -- 03/14/17
PSN Front Gate - Hoodi Station - Sadarmangala dirt road -
Through Train Depot - Container Corporation - ITPL road -
Down via Narayana - PSN Back Gate.
Mileage: 5 Miles - 8.05 km
Time: 0:51:25
Pace: 10'17" / mile
Wght: 72.3 kg - 160.9 lbs
Up again around 4:30, unable to get back to sleep.
So read Surah Yunus, which I thought of as a minor Surah,
but actually captivates me today. Then as the tradition of
these super-early wake-ups, pray Surah Muzzammil followed
by Surah Yaseen.
At 5:45, surprised to find Ruksanna up since 5. But she let's
me "do my thing".
It's hot and muggy outside, clouds, as if trapping heat and
humidity. I start feeling slow, fat and clumsy.
The first stretch through the main road is painful,
as if the oppressive dome of clouds had also retained
the pollution, but past the tracks, it's nice and quiet,
particularly through the train depot which is deserted,
except for large flights of pigeons. My running becomes
more agile.
Over an Hour (6.6 Miles) -- 03/17/17
Friday 03/17/17 -- The Dangerous Trail (Belthur, Kadugodi)
PSN Back Gate - Sadarmangala - Hoodi - Kodigehalli Rd. -
Belathur Rd. - Main Rd - Kadugodi - Back, through the
trail along the railway - Sadarmangala.
Mileage: 6.6 Miles - 10.65 Km
Time: 1:08:18
Pace: 10'21" / mile
Wght: 72.5 kg / 158.7 lbs
Woke at 5, rested! Funny dream of Ruksanna & immigration.
Pleasant from the back gate, calm.
Lengthen the run, thinking to reach an hour first time since
operation. Didn't seem enough, so extended to Belthur /
Kadugodi. On the way back, inspiration, the old trail,
the dangerous trail, memories of the slumdwellers, Ruksanna,
Sampa, Valli ... They had warmed me, on this trail,
a family was murdered, chakou se,
what world we live in, seemed to say Sampa's expression ...
Don't know about danger, but Difficult here, work my way through,
and just about deserted.
Satisfied with this run. First time over an hour. I'm surprised
to ramp back up so fast, but we'll see if that's a good idea.
-- Hiking with "Leopard", Elaruvi --
Faster (4.6 Miles) -- 03/20/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 03/20/17 -- Faster
PSN Front Gate - Hoodi Station - Sadarmangala - Back Gate.
Mileage: 2.4 Miles - 3.9 Km
Time: 0:21:39
Pace: 9'01" / mile
Wght: 71.7 kg - 156.5 lbs
After a wonderful weekend in Elaruvi.
Today, as an on the moment inspiration, go for a faster shorter run.
Like that, I barely reach a 9'00" / mile pace, which today feels somewhat
of an effort, but back in the day was considered a low training pace.
I would like to achieve this at least without too much effort.
In the future, I should measure a subset of the Sadaramangala dirt
road, or other landmarked runs, to monitor my pace.
Happy to see some weight loss at last, after very good nutrition
and activity in Elaruvi.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 03/21/17 --
Home gym: 0:42:00
Sequence: Bar Press (15kg*20) - Knee Lifts - Triceps - Shoulders (6kg*20)
Wght: 71.7 kg - 156.5 lbs
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 03/22/17 --
PSN Back Gate - Ayappa Nagar / Kodigehalli Loop.
Mileage: 4.65 Miles - 7.45 Km
Time: 0:44:03
Pace: 9'28" / mile
Wght: 71.7 kg - 156.5 lbs
Great run. Continue to push the pace a bit, just where
the effort feels right.
Disappointed with Surah Mulk in Namaaz this morning,
I decide to revise it on the run, rather than continuing
to learn Surah Imraan.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Birds at the trash depot --
Further (6.9 Miles) -- 03/26/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 03/24/17 -- Farther
PSN Back Gate - Sadarmangala - Kodegehalli rd - Into the maidam -
To Belathur rd @ Montfort Lake School - Belathur rd. - back through
village to Sadarmangala.
Mileage: 5.05 Miles - 8.1 Km
Time: 0:51:08
Pace: 10'07" / mile
Wght: 71.8 kg - 156.5 lbs
Bad night, diarrhea. What is this new thing ?
Up at 4, twice in a row, exhaustion ? But taken that opportunity
to read Surah Yussuf in two sittings, and today, aptly start Namaaz
with Surah Muzzammil, but then have to cut Yaseen short due to
another bout of diarrhea. Still a good Namaaz.
Profoundly unsatisfied with work, worried about family and the world,
but refuge in Qur'an, opening myself up for "suratim moustaqeem".
Excellent time with Ruksanna as I slowly wake her up, as yesterday,
and feels like we might do something, but time has passed to wake
up Sofia. You should have come by me at 4, she smiles.
In a crash and burn mood, I decide for at least a short run,
leave Ruksanna saying I'll be back in 1/2 hr. But as often, feeling good
once outside, I do not resist the call of the wild, the dirt road
that ventures straight into the few remaining undevelopped parcels
in the Kodigehalli area. I haven't run here in a long time obviously,
and this is part of my ramp up, as if I was drawing concentric
circles of increasing radius.
People are playing cricket by the trail, but past the temple, is just
about deserted, a strange landscape, part wild part under development,
as construction is clearly coming here too! In that type of mood, I also
take the small country road through the village before the tracks.
I am learning a little further into Surah Imraan,
sort of on the back-burner.
Very satisfied with this run, in spite of the difficult night.
The summer heat, still relatively mild, leaves me unaffected.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 03/26/17 -- Seegehalli
Front Gate - Hoodi (no shortcut) - Ayappa Nagar - Devasandra rd. -
Basavanapura Rd. - to Seegehalli Lake: 0:35:51
Seegehalli rd. - 1st Main road - "Umbrella" temple - Sunnyvale Apt. -
Bethel Nagar - Kodigehalli rd. - Hoodi - Along the tracks: 0:31:53
Time: 1:07:44
Mileage: 6.85 Miles - 11 Km
Pace: 9'53" / mile
Wght: 71.3 kg - 157.2 lbs
Not a good wake-up. Not sure if this running is good. Yesterday,
my functions were obstinately not working.
But I still go out, in the strategy of increasing concentric
circles, push to Seegehalli lake, as if re-conquering my old
grounds. A warm summer morning, but actually tolerable and
pleasant. I come back through the small streets from Seegehalli,
re-exploring this little known area.
I didn't feel it much at the time, but this leads to one
of those thirst compulsions throughout the day, no matter what
I drink and how much, I am unable to quench my parched throat!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Road (5.2 Miles) -- 03/31/17
Friday 03/31/17 --
PSN Back gate - Sadarmangala W. - Kodigehalli Rd - Belathur Rd. -
Mount Litera Zee School and Cognitio School - Near Kadugodi -
Sadarmangala - Back.
Mileage: 5.2 Miles - 8.35 Km
Time: 0:51:03
Pace: 9'49" / mile
Wght: 71.7 kg - 158.1 lbs
Up early. Reading. Excellent Surah Yaseen.
Have decided to curtail running, but once outside, feel too good,
breathing excellent, pleasant summer temperature.
So I lengthen the run as often, thereby also prolonging
my learning time as I am slowly advancing in Surah Imraan.
Venturing on Belathur Road, on a sudden inspiration I explore
the first road to the right, which has been neatly paved, two lanes
and sidewalk (surprising for such a country road), actually leads
past two new schools, before looping back to the junction between
the Sadarmangala dirt road and the way towards Kadugodi. This
proves a very good alternative.
Feel good, but not sure what these runs will do to my recovery,
which has become a little hesitant (in spite of Dr Dubey's magic
pills, I feel if anything a setback in my functions).
I think I'll settle for running
under an hour for some time, and no more than twice
or three times a week. We'll see ...
Slow (7.6 Miles) -- 04/03/17
Hoodi - Ayappa Nagar - BasavanaPura Rd. - Seegehali Lake: 0:36:03
Seegehalli rd. - to Big Lake: 0:09:22
Belathur Rd. - Shortcut to Village - Sadarmangala: 0:34:21
Time: 1:19:48
Mileage: 7.6 Miles - 12.25 Km
Pace: 10'30" / mile
Wght: 71.4 kg - 157.4 kg
Feeling slow, mind and body. Rested but slow. Unable to convincingly
pray Namaaz.
Is it because of the heat? For the 1st time, Ruksanna puts on AC,
without which she was unable to sleep. She explains that in Kadugodi,
there was always some air "from four corners", and she's always been
delicate in her sleep, she would fan the children until they slept, then
sleep if she could.
Anyway, it wasn't like this, she could forego work any time if
she needed to rest during the day.
Determined to run, but feel slow, body not moving well, hamstrings
tight. But who cares? I feel good outside, rehearsing Surah Imraan
(there too, no pressure to learn fast, as I need to consolidate all
the rest), and my breathing is very good at this pace. It's hot
but not unsurmountable, and traffic is tolerable, and lesser as the
run progresses.
It's been a while I haven't been by the lake. It's nice to
reconquer those territories, along the road imagining a mountain
where there might be a slight bump, remembering the glorious cycle days.
So much for the
idea of running no more than an hour.
-- Near Belathur Road --
Pigs (6.1 Miles) -- 04/06/17
PSN main gate - Hoodi - to Kodigehalli rd. - Straight through the fields -
Belathur rd. - Mount Zee Litera / Cognito Schools - Sadarmangala.
Time: 1:03:03
Mileage: 6.1 Miles - 9.75 Km
Pace: 10'20" / mile
Wght: 71.3 kg - 157.2 lbs
Insomnia. Quran, maryama. Muzzammil, which had been falling apart.
Run in spite of exhaustion, another slow pace. Rain has done little
to cool the air, which feels somewhat like a sauna. The pigs, the
aggressive mother, no-one here. The new road, paved, some people
exercise here.
Almost to my surprise, progress in Surah Imraam.
Luckily, because we're going to Sofia's school, I manage to re-sleep
after this, feeling good for the rest of the day.
Dogs and Heat (8.1 Miles) -- 04/09/17
BasavanaNagar - Petrol Bunk: 0:27:06
Doddenakundi area - Outer Ring Rd.: 0:16:23
Back - Hoodi - Sadarmangala: 0:42:13
Mileage: 8.1 Miles - 13 Km
Time: 1:25:41
Pace: 10'35"/mile
Wght: 71.3 kg - 157.2 lbs
Woke up at 4, but thankfully decided to sleep again, perfectly
able to prolong sleep till 4:30, appropriate time to finish reading
Surah Taa Haa, then Muzzammil, Baqara in Namaaz.
Yesterday was one of the bad saturdays, so I'm determined to go out
today.
Head out shortly after 6. The heat has definitely set in, and
for the first time last night, I enjoy the AC that Ruksanna has
put on (and don't turn it off till morning). In one of those last
minute inspirations, to introduce some variation from the Seegehalli
area, I head up Basavanagar then into the small roads of Dodenakundi,
leading to Marathahalli. During the week, this place would be complete
dust and pollution hell, with all the trafic avoiding the main roads
trying to funnel through these, but on a Sunday morning, it's
calm. I pass the corpse of a recent dog, on the side of the road,
and a second one a little later, more decomposed.
Turning back at the Outer Ring Road, I decide to come back
through Hoodi / Sadarmangala. This last stretch feels particularly
hot, the wind traveling with me on the run, trapping the heat.
I have been learning Surah Al-i-Imraan along the way.
I feel fantastic after this though, my longest run since
surgery, and biggest week (after last week's semi-rest). We enjoy
a wonderful Sunday, as things are returning to normal. In the evening,
we go to Bashaa ka ghar to visit Heeran's new-born child. I was
worried about driving with no license (mine has expired, and is now
in the hands of Arun), but eventually get pulled into the skill
game of driving the chhoti galian.
-- Inside Bashaa's house, KRPuram --
Dogs and Speed (5.75 Miles) -- 04/12/17
Warmup: PSN front gate - Hoodi Station: 0:16:52 [1.73 m. - 2.79 km.]
Interval:
Kodigehalli to Junction: 0:12:21 [1.5 m. - 2.41 km. (3.23 m. - 5.2 km.)]
Recovery:
To Sadarmangala rd.: 0:06:22 [(3.85 m. - 6.2 km.)]
Interval:
Sadarmangala, to Hoodi: 0:09:27 [1.13 m - 1.82 km (4.98 m. - 8.02 km.)]
Recovery:
Back to PSN Back Gate: 0:08:06 [(5.75 m. - 9.26 km)]
Total time: 0:53:13
Total Mileage: 5.75 Miles - 9.25 Km
1st Interval: 1.5 Miles in 0:12:21 ==>> Pace: 8'14" / mile
2nd Interval: 1.13 Miles in 0:09:27 ==>> Pace: 8'22" / mile
Overall Pace: 9'15" / mile
Wght: 71.9 kg - 158.5 lbs
Weather: 28 C., 36 C. later in the day. (82F - 97F)
Up with Adhan around 5, needed the rest.
Aching from yesterday's hard gym session, as usual, punch combos are
the most taxing!
In the same theme, decide for a speed session. I don't like them,
and typically fail to be regular. But here we go. First time trying
to find intervals along the usual roads. It's very hot though, which
will probably affect my running, and I'm still sore from Sunday's
semi-long run.
The other thing that affects my running is the dogs !
Is it my red t-shirt (drenched in sweat), my short pants revealing
so white legs, or my very laborious attempt at running fast? Whatever
it is, the dogs come barking after me right away, coming very close,
and I have to stop to discipline them (under the smiling eyes of the
labourers). Thankfully nothing bad happens, and I'm able to resume
the interval. I give myself a 5 second discount for this involuntary
stop... And it almost happens again on the second interval, along
Sadarmangala road, where runs bark after me from the fields, but
stay at a distance. At my normal training pace, I wouldn't have these
problems.
I do struggle to complete the second interval, finding that I've just
about reached my limit (I used to run my mile intervals under 6'00"!)
I later figure out my pace, which seems
within expectations, but such a far cry from the old days! To think
that I ran an entire marathon at a 7'30" average pace
seems surrealistic, and of course no longer attainable.
Whatever, it would be nice to reach some sort
of speed goal, mitigated by my age and circumstances.
Back home, spend a wonderful time with Ruksanna before leisurely
walking to work.
-- Old Madras Road --
Run with Jesus (8.2 Miles) -- 04/15/17
PSN Front Gate - Through Hoodi - AyappaNagar - BasavanaPura rd. -
to Old Madras Road: 0:38:22
Old Madras Road - Past RTO Office: 0:09:48
Back Via Seegehalli Rd. - Belathur Rd. - Through Village -
Sadaramangala: 0:38:19
Time: 1:26:28
Mileage: 8.2 Miles - 13.2 Km
Pace: 10'32"/mile
Wght: 71.2 kg - 157 lbs (Ah, this is better)
Weather: 25C - 36C.
Very much feel like running, after a rest day yesterday.
Take off shortly after 6. Temperature relatively ok.
Opt for BasavanaPura rd, this time all the way to the Old Madras
Highway, and past the RTO office where we were on Thursday to
renew my driver's license. It's very quiet this morning, but in
front of the building is a group of people wearing white t-shirts
"run with Jesus" (but none of them are running). I pass smiling
at them, smiles back.
Running is good and slow, well in control, trying to finish the 7th
long Aayat of Surah al-i-Imraan. It would be tempting to continue
exploring East on Old Madras Road past Seegehalli road, but the length
is completely unknown, and patience prevails, preferring to
conservatively ramp back up, and save some exploration for the future.
This turns out a good choice, as I finish the run just appropriately
within my limits. For once, I've worn the water belt, which although
annoying, serves me well in this heat.
Back home and seeing the map confirms that I did well in not
pushing forward, the way back uncertain and circuitous !
-- Peacock caught in a tree, Elaruvi --
Somesh (4.9 Miles) -- 04/27/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 04/25/17 --
Sadarmangala / Kodigehalli / Cognitio School loop.
Mileage: 4.9 Miles - 7.8 Km
Time: 0:50:56
Pace: 10'23" / mile
Wght: 71.3 kg - 157.2 lbs
Up too early. Sluggish run, but happy to be out in
these agitated times, and to progress again in Surah
Al-i-Imraan. Many things going on, among which Julien's
visit starting today, following a new conversation with Anish
last evening, making the Mumbai move more palatable
(or unavoidable?).
After a week in Elaruvi, running strangely sluggish, sore
and awkward. It's hot here too, especially heading East
with the wind, full passina !!! My feet are still quite swollen
(exact origin unknown, likely to be a combo of insect bites
and excessive Tamil Nadu heat), but abating slowly,
especially in the morning.
Ready for a day of action, although I fear my potential
anger.
-- Rebuilding our house, Elaruvi --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 04/27/17 --
Same exact route as Tuesday.
Mileage: 4.9 Miles - 7.8 Km
Time: 0:46:42
Pace: 9'32"/mile
Wght: 70.8 kg / 156.1 lbs
Same exact route as Tuesday, but much more energetic.
After a particularly lengthy Yaseen Namaaz, with Ruksanna had dropped
the idea of running. I learn Somesh's passing away. Feel like getting
out after all, go without stretching. I feel much lighter and "springy"
than on the last run. Fueled perhaps by grief, and continuing anger
at the work situation. And I complete learning the first Ruku of
Surah al-Imraam.
Later that day, the agony of the studio seems to mirror that of our
dear friend. It's time to put it to an end. At the height of grief
for Somesh, I send out an email calling it quits.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- The first Ruku of Surah Aal-i-Imraan --
Surah Aal-i-Imraan (8.3 Miles) -- 05/01/17
Hoodi shortcut - Underpass - Ayappa Nagar - Basavanapura Rd. -
Basavanapura Main Rd. (to the West): 0:37:28 (4 Miles - 6.4 Km)
Old Madras Rd. - Deepa Hospital, meandering alleys and dirt roads -
Cambridge Institute - Back (to my surprise) to Old Madras Road: 0:13:24
Basavanapura rd. - Ayappa Nagar - Sadarmangala: 0:32:08
(4.3 Miles - 6.9 Km)
Time: 1:23:00
Mileage: 8.3 Miles - 13.3 Km
Pace: 10'00" / mile (first part: 9'22"/mile)
Wght: 70.8 kg / 156.1 lbs
We are back from Mumbai, where we attended Somesh's funeral.
This is a later run, around 8am start. I explore a road
to the west from BasavanaPura, which had been intriguing me,
and leads towards the KRPuram Market on Old Madras Road.
I reach that with no problem, but from that point start feeling
a bit tired. From the main road, I quickly plunge into
alleys which I think should take me back, and meandering as I
find my way, cross certain dirt patches. But to my great surprise,
I end up looping right back to Old Madras Road! Have no idea
how that happened through the maze of alleys ...
But this have left me extraordinarily tired, and for the first
time in a long time, I really struggle to get back, taking a couple
walking breaks. If I had carried money, I would surely have taken
an auto back, and Ruksanna later disciplines me that she won't
let me run if I am not more cautious in the future.
The run has ended in complete (and somewhat inexplicable) failure...
Settlement (8.3 Miles) -- 05/06/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 05/03/17 --
Front Gate - Hoodi Shorcut - Kodigehalli - through the Maidam
(slight detour) -
Belathur Rd. - Cognitio School - Sadarmangala - Back Gate.
Mileage: 6.3 Miles - 10.1 Km
Time: 1:04:52
Pace: 10'18" / mile
Wght: 70.2 kg - 156.1 lbs
This is the equivalent of getting right back on the horse
after a bad fall. Monday's run was so awful, and yet I get
right back out two day's later.
And it works ! Adopting a slow pace from the start,
I get an excellent run!
I extend the route by going through the Maidam. A few
dog incidents, luckily without no gravity. Here, a few men
encourage me in Hindi, saying the dogs won't touch me. Correct.
A little further, I explore the trail that has been intriguing
me, thinking it'll connect easily to Belathur road. But this
proves to be a dead-end at a construction site, and there too,
I chat in Hindi about the rasta. I'll admit it pleases me
to speak in Hindi.
I finish the run very comfortably, strengthening my
knowledge of Surah al-i-imraan, particularly satisfied with
this run which has swept away the bad memory of the previous.
I had probably simply started too fast ...
We are more and more likely to move to Mumbai ...
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 05/04/17 --
Home Gym: 0:31:30
Sequence: Back - Biceps.
Wght: 70.3 kg / 155 lbs
Unfortunately a very bad night, waken up multiple times by thoughts,
unpleasant dreams, and finally a bad mosquito !!!
Feeling relatively fine nonetheless. Having gotten up very early,
try Surah Muzammil which has unfortunately slipped away from my
memory in places, still a good Namaaz though, which I conclude with
Surah Mulk.
Not to appear perpetually unsatisfied, I should be happy with this
drop in weight, but now worry that it might be a little much,
especially with Ramzan starting in less than a month!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 05/06/17 -- Settlement
Main Road - BasavanaNagar: 0:24:00 (2.35 Miles - 3.8 Km)
4 * around the Lake: 0:36:10 (3.35 Miles - 5.4 Km)
Back via Epip - Windmills - Cap Gemini: 0:27:57 (2.6 Miles - 4.1 Km)
Time: 1:28:07
Mileage: 8.3 Miles - 13.3 Km
Pace: 10'37"/mile
Wght: 70.2 kg - 154.8 lbs
-- Sadarmangala lake a year ago and now, sadly being dried up --
-- Prasanjib and friend, Sadaramangala / Kodigehalli area --
Prasanjib (5.9 Miles) -- 05/16/17
Hoodi Shortcut - Kodigehalli - Belathur rd. - JR College Shortcut - Sadarmangala.
Mileage: 5.9 Miles - 9.5 Km
Time: 1:01:26
Pace: 10'25" / mile
Wght: 70.9 kg - 156.3 lbs
For a long time, great run. Feeling better at last.
Ran into Prasanjib, then again, took a selfie.
Climate more clement, there have been huge rains.
Progressing in Surah Imraan, added one ayaat.
Closing the DDU ....
-- Last days in front of my office, with Pradipto and Pramita --
Closure (8.6 Miles) -- 05/20/17
Hoodi - Ayappa Nagar - Basavana Pura: 0:36:26
Around Seegehalli Lake: 0:09:28
Seegehalli Rd. - Belanthur Rd. - Village Shortcut - Sadarmangala: 0:43:44
Time: 1:29:37
Mileage: 8.6 Miles - 13.85 km
Pace: 10'25"/mile
Wght: 71 kg - 156.5 lbs
Studio closure.
Cooler overcast weather.
Ramadhan approaching.
Surah Imraan.
-- Muddy road near Kodigehalli --
After the Storm (6 Miles) -- 05/23/17
Hoodi - Ayappa Nagar - Kodigehalli - Village shortcut - Sadarmangala.
Time: 0:57:12
Mileage: 6 Miles - 9.65 Km
Pace: 9'32" / mile
Wght: 71 kg - 156.5 lbs
Great run. At first no. Energetic mood, like yesterday.
Powerful evening flash-storms, violent winds.
Feels good, in spite of pains.
-- Annual Show at Samridhdhi --
Last before Ramadhan (10.4 Miles) -- 05/25/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 05/25/17 -- Before Ramadhan
PSN Gate 3 - Main Road - ECC road: 0:27:24
Borewell Rd. - Palm Meadows Shortcut - Along the lake -
Ramagondanahalli - Main Road - BEML Layout: 0:37:44
Brookefield - Basavananagar - Shortcut Hoodi - Sadarmangala -
till level of PSN 4th tower: 0:43:38
Mileage: 10.4 Miles - 16.75 Km
Time: 1:48:47
Pace: 10'27"/mile
Wght: 71 kg - 156.5 lbs
Last before Ramadhan.
Different. The old road, houses. Construction.
But traffic increases, and the Brookefiled area is pretty painful.
I regret the Kodigehalli area, more suitable for running, but
all in all a good run nevertheless. My longest since surgery.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 05/26/17 --
Wght: 71.5 kg - 157.6 lbs
The last day of the Studio. I have turned down MPCs offer, we will
definitely be leaving Bangalore after Ramadhan.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Last crew meeting at the DDU --