Sangarsh Thane Creek Half Marathon (13.1 Miles) -- 09/22/19
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Sunday 09/22/19 -- Sangarsh Thane Creek Half Marathon
Time (Watch & Official): 1:58:55
Mileage: 13.1 Miles - 21.1 Km
Pace: 9'04"/mile - 5'38"/km
Average Graded: 1:42:52, ie. 7'50"/mile
Weight: 68 kg - 149.9 lbs
We drove into Thane yesterday to get the bibs, and got lost,
actually an amusing experience, which allowed us to explore
some new neighborhoods. But the state of the roads!! It is
so awful that a few times the bottom of the car violently
hits the ground from the incredible pot-holes. Ruksanna
is concerned, and does not want to drive this way again,
but most roads, including freeways, have become like this,
returned to a savage state of sorts.
In spite of irritating wake-ups, I have managed to sleep
again, to wake up just before alarm at 3:30, from a disturbing
dream where we are charged by large wild boars - until someone
guides them away with some puppet animal. Still, this is nothing
compared to the previous night, where I had left Madeleine still
a baby sleeping in a train (how did I myself exit the train?) and
now don't exactly know where it will stop and how to get her
back. Horrible!
We drive in the early morning, easy with no traffic. This
is a first time run, and the crowd is much smaller, which is good.
A hesitant Zumba session gets started on stage, by announcing
that restrooms can be found at the nearby school, which sends
most of what little crowd there was in a procession to the school.
I am very satisfied to be able to fully relieve myself before the run.
My shoes severely battered by this extended monsoon
feel like they've lost all shape, sort of like old sluggish slippers,
I should consider changing them early.
My weight has unexpectedly dropped since yesterday, just as I
was worried about gaining weight actually, magically bang on
target, perhaps a good omen for today? My goal is to reverse
the last half marathon, hopefully run in less then two hours, and
most of all, do not quit! I perform only a brief warm-up, and the
run starts.
The course, after meandering a little in the nondescript
area, joins the service road of a highway,
guessing on the left a body of water in the timid first light, then
turns onto a road flanked by steep silhouetted hills on the right.
As day rises, these impressive cliffs, towering over humble
neighborhoods, reveal their coat of green, tightly carpeted
by the monsoon. On the left, the water starts to color from
the sky, finally, a dry day, a gentle sunshine, and not very
hot yet.
I feel good through the first half, running by feel only,
feeling a good sustained but manageable pace. I have not
taken the phone at all today (so no Strava obviously), and
not even a belt, which seems to help relax my stomach. I
enjoy the unusual scenery, the humble neighborhoods pressed
between the hills and the water, a distinctly muslim area,
thankfully not too much traffic yet at this hour (although
vehicles and things do occasionally come in the way),
coming alive to the morning. We pass a train station,
surprise, this is Mumbra! So here is the place that we
had been talking about, recommended by Ruksanna's
friends, indeed, popular and fascinating, teeming with
life (I will learn later that this used to be a particularly
dilapidated ill-famed area). Today is a out and back course,
no loops, and I remain engaged by this fascinating
landscape, a great contrast with last race's sterile BKC.
On the way back, a tree has caught fire from
a power line, drawing a small crowd. As often, I weaken
in the last third, and thoughts of quitting threaten me. I slow
down, but do not quit, even when an unexpected
detour adds to the course, and even though the last road
seems to stretch on forever. I have made the questionable
decision to not eat the gel I was keeping in my pocket, perhaps
a reason I am weakening so much, or simply that since Ramzan,
I haven't been able to build back up proper endurance.
But I don't quit.
I pass the finish line without a sprint, but not relenting too
much my cadence. Just under 2 hours, which was my goal for the day.
But I feel affected. Again a disturbing phenomenon, I feel
unbalanced, as if dizzy, painfully making my way through the
crowd as if drunk, hoping I won't fall, and again my ears are plugged.
I wonder what this is, and whether I should consult a doctor/
The line is very long for medals, food and drink. I socialize.
The food in almost inedible unfortunately, extremely dry, sticking
in the mouth like sand. But this has occupied me enough while
I wait for Ruksanna, who has predicted a particularly slow time.
I eventually walk slowly on the road towards her, and we meet,
re-passing the finish line together. She is not happy with her
performance (she has not trained at all). Today is our Nikah
anniversary. We will end up not doing anything in particular,
but I tell her I've taken her to Mumbra, although preoccupied
by her bad run, she hasn't watched much. She says that based
on this, Tata will never give her, that is she will be
denied a spot to run the Mumbai Tata Half Marathon.
Today I have run without Strava, without phone, and even
without belt, without anything really,
leaving the stomach free to breathe. I am very happy
to revert back to a more natural style of running, as it used to be.
I will cancel my Strava account for good.
[Postcriptum: I later found out more about Mumbra.
The neighborhood, once a marshy strip of land in the
suburbs of Thane, became one of the largest Muslim refugee
settlements after the Mumbai riots of 1992. In the violence that
erupted after the Babri Majid demolition in Ayodhya, many
Muslims fled Mumbai to establish themselves here, to
reside among themselves, out of fear (the population is
80% Muslim). Till date, it is among the largest
Muslim ghettos in India. But the area has been run down,
government paying little attention to it, housing is cheap
but largely illegal (a building collapsed in 2013), underdeveloped
in terms of schools, hospitals, etc. It has a general bad reputation.
]
Sunrise (10.97 Miles) -- 09/29/19
Sunday 09/29/19 -- Sunrise
Khairani rd W - Andheri Ghatkopar - Link rd -
90 ft rd - Pant Nagar Colony - EEW @ Slum River -
Easter Express Highway - Along Highway to the East
in Vikhroli - JVLR - IIT - Powai Lake Promenade.
Time: 1:43:47
Mileage: 10.97 Miles - 17.66 Km
Pace: 9'27"/mile - 5'52"/km
Weight: 69.1 kg - 152.3 lbs
8th reading completed Surah Furqan.
Another run that starts a little tired,
but turns out great. But mostly, today, a
morning of pure sunshine, dry, and pleasant
temperatures.
I start the run early near sunrise, along
Khairani road, the pure morning light filtering
through the smoke of the slums. Feeling good,
on an inspiration, and in spite of not having scouted
the route, I venture into exploration, first, turn right before
the Eastern Express Highway
into small neighborhoods, surprised to see me
perhaps, temples and slum like small housing,
till I find a roundabout, and meandering eventually to
the highway at the slum river, where I follow sparse
lines of runners on the Service road, to the right
the sun rising over the Mangroves. Very encouraged
by this first exploration, I turn right again at Tagore Nagar,
through the neighborhood encroached among
the mangroves along the freeway. This seems to open
to many possibilities, perhaps towards the water,
but I cautiously follow a road which actually parallels
the highway, nearer to the mangroves. This is a wonderful
alternative, with much promise for more.
The day is crisp and sunny for the first time in those long
monsoon months, wonderful how it alters the mood.
I've now deleted my Strava account for good,
and carry again no phone, just water belt with Gatorade.
I feel easy, natural, increasingly happy, and revert
back to the habit of learning the Qur'an on these runs,
as before, the memory of a particular Ayaat sometimes
linking itself with a particular place. Back in familiar
territory, I take it easy up the IIT hill without struggling
much, feeling at times the beautiful equilibrium of the
right posture, a sensation where the movements of
each member fleetingly falls in place,
and easily complete the Lake Powai Promenade, in
time to go attend our first Frangipani AGM (which will
start late anyway).
This has been among my best runs since Ramadhan.
IIT Hill (9.18 Miles) -- 10/02/19
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Tuesday 10/01/19 -- Quasi un Tempo
Khairani Rd - Saki Naka - Andheri Kurla -
Makwana - Military - Marol - Seepz.
Time: 0:27:15
Mileage: 3.2 Miles - 5.15 Km
Pace: 8'31"/mile - 5'17"/km
Weight: 68.8 kg - 151.7 lbs
Weather: 26C - 31C; Humidity 83%
Finished Surah Shuaraah.
Woke up at 4, unfortunately, not really able to
sleep again (or did I?). Tired.
But there is an early morning meeting. After
another attempt at Surah Isra in Namaaz, not much
time left, which leads to this short route and a rather
brisk pace, giving an extra tempo run, which is actually
quite satisfying.
Once at work, really struggling to stop the sweating in
time, I find out that the meeting isn't actually till later.
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Wednesday 10/02/19 -- IIT Hill Repeats
Lake Homes - Orchard - IIT - LBS: 0:30:20 [3.22M - 5.18K]
IIT Hill Repeats - 795 mtrs (0.49 Miles)
Interval I: 4'35".66 (Pace: 9'16"/mile - 5'46"/km)
Interval II: 4'39".90 (Pace: 9'27"/mile - 5'52"/km)
Interval III: 4'46".63 (Pace: 9'39"/mile - 6'00"/km)
Interval IV: 4'56".72 (Pace: 10'01"/mile - 6'13"/km)
Descents, approx. 4'18" x 3: 0:12:54 [1.47M - 2.39K]
Hill Repeats Overall Time: 0:18:58
Hill Repeats Overall Mileage: 1.96 Miles - 3.18 Km
Hill Repeats Overall Pace: 9'36"/mile - 5'58"/km
IIT - Lake Promenade - Nahar: 0:24:33 [2.53M - 4.07K]
Total Time: 1:26:45
Total Mileage: 9.18 Miles - 14.82 Km
Total Pace: 9'25"/mile - 5'51"/km
Weight: 68.7 kg - 151.4 lbs
Weather: 25C - 31C; Humidity 79%
Surah Naml till v 45.
I wake up at 4 yet again, unable to sleep back really.
It's a beautiful sunny day.
I've planned for a speed session today, as often,
hesitate what exactly to do till the last minute. The
hills being too far (holiday today so have to return
home), I decide for Mile Intervals along Lake Powai,
but at the last minute, feeling tired, decide on
an inspiration to try my hill repeats here itself on the
IIT climb.
This turns better than I thought. I feared the
climb might be too short, but actually it is a reasonable
length, and luckily not too crowded on this Ghandi Jayanthi.
I put in a good effort,
although I'll later realize that I've slowed down at each repeat,
probably too much. I am not carrying any drink, which in this
heat is questionable, perhaps a possible explanation for this
gradual weakening. As is the trend lately, I've gone out as
light as possible, only carrying the phone to photograph
my interval times (since my stupid watch doesn't store laps).
On the way back, I see people wearing white shirts cleaning
along Lake Promenade for Swacch Bharat. Starting to feel
hot, dehydrated with no water, but quite pleasant.
Overall, satisfied with this good effort.
And as I've often noticed, this high intensity session
leaves me in a particularly excellent state for the rest
of the day, paradoxically, no weariness, no brain fog,
crystal mind, feeling much better than I would after a
slower longer run. This leads today to excellent
clear Namaaz.
And in the evening, we return along the Lake
Promenade with Ruksanna. It is peaceful in
spite of a small crowd come to gaze at the
sunset, orange light, the heat starting to be
heavy as in October, but freshened by the
water just enough to calm perspiration.
The sun sets at the other end of the lake,
in between buildings, the moon, a meager
crescent, has appeared, their vision however
simple magically opening our world to a
broader dimension. An excellent Namaaz
that evening, and a simple memory to hold on to.
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Friday 10/04/19 -- Aarey Pipeline Commute
Time: 0:39:45
Miles: 4.26 Miles - 6.85 Km
Pace: 9'20"/mile - 5'48"/km
Weight: 68.8 kg - 151.7 lbs
Weather: 26C - 31C; Humidity 83%
Read Surah Qasas till v. 42.
Many wake-ups during the night, but successfully
fell back asleep. Last night, to put me to sleep Ruksanna
coated my entire body with Coconut Oil, this not only
allowed me many dreams, but also seems to have
cured my uncomfortable penis chafing for good!
(This unpleasant ailment seems to strike me
regularly since the Ste Agnes long run in France).
Saddened by the fact that I may not be able to
attend Masjid today to a client lunch, I read the Qur'an
(the story of Musah) at length, followed by an exceptional
Surah Yaseen in Namaaz. I then take time, on Jummah,
to write another Aayat that I've learned from Surah
Isra. In spite of all this, I still manage to get out around 7:15.
It's nicely sunny, but hot and very humid, precursor
to the dreaded October Heat. I had planned to repeat
yesterday's short route, but feeling good after Namaaz,
decide to extend to the Pipeline route, and its peaceful
break from urban chaos (but intimidating slums). Like
yesterday also, I start at a very conservative recovery
pace, actually feeling quite out of breath at first, but
settle into a nice pleasant rhythm.
I fear the heat for Sunday's race. And cannot
stop worrying about Ruksanna, who as usual has
not trained at all. Could something happen to her?
Should I dissuade her from running?
Yeour Hill Half Marathon (13.1 Miles) -- 10/06/19
Sunday 10/06/19 -- Yeour Hill Half Marathon -
Time: 2:00:38
Official Time: 2:00:37
Placed 2nd in age group (50+)
Mileage (theoritical): 13.1 Miles - 21.1 Km
Pace: 9'12"/mile - 5'43"/km
Weight: 68.9 kg - 151.9 lbs
Computer went crazy yesterday, just as I needed
to do taxes, attempting to delete all files as I open
them, in a near panic, had to close it!
Nevertheless by great effort manage to brush this
aside in my mind and sleep, multiple times, to wake
up perfectly well before the alarm. I was dreaming
that my warmup run before the race was so good
that I got carried away in distance, eventually getting
lost, especially since I no longer carry a phone on the
run. I wake up to a good impression of a light pace,
and clear mind.
Decide to use Ola, driver, half speak, fast,
Ruksanna has fallen asleep, but I stay terrified
has he rushes at 130K+ on the freeway and its
treacherous obstacles. We reach in time.
Like last race, a brief easy warmup, which
still leaves me sweaty. We start. Climb from the start.
Today, determined to run by feel, without
worrying about pace, run by effort. The road
continues to escalate gently in rolling hills, then
veers left along a large talaab. So far, I have well
managed my effort. Then here comes a right turn
on a small steeper road which climbs into the forest
hill, with signs warning of leopard habitat. This is
a harder climb, but here too, I find a good rhythm
and form (thanks for those hill repeats Wednesday!),
reminiscent of my cycling days, re-finding my climbing
form. A few hairpin turns even, then the road, beautiful
in the forest, eases out a little, and eventually levels
out by some small village, continuing into a beautiful
morning landscape, more gentle. The hill seems to
also have brought some fresh air, less hot than I
feared, and I continue to feel wonderful, till the
turn-around point.
I relax on the descent, eventually crossing
Ruksanna. Today, unlike last race, I have decided
to drink abundantly, carrying a small water bottle
on most descents, and eat a gel to power up for
the 2nd loop. I continue to feel great, relaxing on
the descent and lengthening my stride, admiring
the Talaab, now in morning light. Back to the start
for the second loop.
It seems that I haven't lost any energy today,
the second half feels very similar to the first, except
now in day light. I adopt the same shorter stride,
relatively fast cadence, and erect posture - basically,
my climbing position - to pass the climbs, very
satisfied to find the effort manageable and pleasant
today. In fact, I start to pass some people who had
pulled ahead of me on the first 10K, but are now down
to a walk up the hill. In particular, I pass the bearded
man of my age, whom I often meet on these runs.
In the descent, making sure he doesn't catch me back
acts as a small motivation.
But here too, I do not overdo the effort, feeling
amazingly comfortable today, not at all bored and
hardly challenged, only in the last 500 meters or so
do I push the effort, realizing I'm coming very close
to finishing in two hours. I pass the line, completing
what has been one of my best runs in this period.
I will wait for Ruksanna for a very long time.
She seemed fine though when I crossed her, and
I'm not as worried as before. I eventually call her,
she reassures me she is still coming. I go listen
to the podium, wondering if perhaps I might win
something today. She eventually comes before
they finish announcing result. My result has come
last, Half Marathon Male 50+, I have indeed
placed second, and get called on stage for a trophy,
a first for me, which caps a particularly excellent
day. This seems to show that, like on the bike,
I do particularly well on hilly runs, the rhythm of
which suits me, finding a good climber's stance
while able to accelerate while recovering in the
descents, similarly to my great day last year in
Sanjay Gandhi Park. I'll admit being so satisfied
with this (what a contrast with my DNF at BKC)
that I immediately post a podium photo on Facebook.
The feast is over. I'm about to call Ola,
but some driver calls us, parked there. "Remember me?",
it's the guy from this morning, who has slept nearby
since. He takes us back, sounding even more drunk.
And in this excellent mood, I even find a solution
to the earlier woes: Why don't I try using the old blue
computer, perhaps it still works?
Before Leaving (9.8 Miles) -- 10/12/19
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Friday 10/11/19 --
Rajeha Vihar (full) - Saki Vihar - Mithi River Bridge -
Andheri Kurla - Marol & Airport Metro - Apna Dhaba -
RK Mandir - Kondivita rd - Seepz.
Time: 0:43:20
Mileage: 4.8 Miles - 7.72 Km
Pace: 9'01"/mile - 5'37"/km
Weight: 68.8 kg - 151.7 lbs
Weather: 25C - 33C; Humidity 78%
Surah Luqman, Surah Sajdah.
True! -- nervous -- very, very dreadfully nervous
This sums up my state of mind, as often before a trip.
I am anguished at the idea of separating from Ruksanna,
even if for only two weeks, letting her with the children,
by herself. I struggle to stay calm. This leads to an
excellent Surah Yaseen Namaaz, which appeases me
a bit. I then take the time to write two new Aayat that
I've learned from Surah Isra, which is becoming a
tradition on Friday's, and therefore take a late start
around 7:15, not very interested in running. I have
to carry my wallet for once, making me choose a
relatively safe route, not through Aarey.
But once out, I quickly find that I feel quite good.
So I extend this, putting to practice an old idea I
had of continuing on the main road till the Apna
Dhaba turn, for a longer course to Seepz. This
is of course quite busy at this hour, dusty and polluted,
and a myriad obstacles springing in between, yet I
feel surprisingly good today. The route ends up
shorter than I would have thought.
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Saturday 10/12/19 -- Tagore Nagar
Lake Homes - Orchard - Galleria - Hiranandani
Hospital - Padmavati Devi - IIT - Through Tagore Nagar -
EEH - Link Rd - Andheri Kurla - Khairani Rd
Time: 1:35:17
Mileage: 9.8 Miles - 15.76 Km
Pace: 9'43"/mile - 6'03"/km
Weight: 68.5 kg - 151 lbs
Read Surah Ashzaab till v 34.
Another mellow run, not feeling particularly
good, and quite nervous before leaving, but still
managed this, longer than I thought.
A terrible dream this time about Jeremie, where
he was reduced to a small squarish head, falling into
a permanent sleep (death?) induced by some drug.
When I wake up, I discover a mouse (or rat) in the kitchen.
-- From the Verdugo Hills --
Glendale: Verdugo Hills, Los Angeles River (9.12 Miles) -- 10/18/19
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Monday 10/14/19 -- Los Angeles River
Hyatt Glendale - Wilson - San Fernando - Flower - River Walk
(both directions) - to Sonora - back same way.
Time: 1:02:23
Mileage: 6.23 Miles - 10.02 Km
Pace: 10'00"/mile
From the Hyatt in Glendale, along San Fernando, not the greatest route, but to my surprise, soon run into Flower St and Dreamworks, and find a bicycle path that I explore in both directions, first South to a dead end, then North, along the backside of the Dreamworks Campus, and to Sonora. Feeling approximately ok, although this pace is slower than I thought.
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Tuesday 10/15/19 -- Glendale Foothills
Hyatt - Central - Valley View - Mountain - Cumberland -
to Brand Park
Time: 0:58:35
Mileage: 6 Miles - 9.65 Km
Pace: 9'45"/mile - 6'04"/km
Up at 4:00 and tired, was going to repeat yesterday's run, but luckily inspired to "head for the hills" instead. This works out great, following a bike route to Brand Park. I learn later from Jane Hartwell that there is a trail starting here that would allow me to climb further up. Will definitely re-visit!
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Wednesday 10/16/19 -- Verdugo Hills
Like yesterday, run to Brand Park - Trail up to intermediate summit
Time: 1:30:04
Estimated Pace: 10'30"/mile (could be slower)
Estimated Mileage: 8.6 Miles
Following Jane's recommendation, I look for a trail up the hills
at the Brand Library. After some hesitation and asking around,
I do indeed find the "Seven Trees Trail" that indeed climbs up.
It's beautiful here in the morning, soon revealing sprawling
views of the LA Basin which, on this crystal clear autumn
day, shows Downtown and the distant ocean. But the trails
are very steep, unfit for running in places, causing me to
hike up certain sections. A pause at the view, then into the
descent, a different way, equally steep, challenging even
coming down. I may not have handled my nutrition that
well, not to mention jet lag, and the climbing has turned
my legs to cotton, but I nevertheless make it back bravely,
but dizzily. The trail opens to higher peaks, but I decide
that I will not revisit this area, deemed much too steep for actual
running.
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Thursday 10/17/19 -- Rest
For once woke up later, with local Adhaan around 6:00.
Decide to take a rest day after last few days' intensity.
And just as well, as I have to organize Ruksanna's trip
to Tamil Nadu from here, as we are at risk of losing our
house in Elaruvi. Her first time taking a plane by herself!
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Friday 10/18/19 -- Los Angeles River
From Hyatt - LA River - to Sonora - to Colorado - Back same Way.
Time: 1:23:08
Mileage: 9.12 Miles - 14.68 Km (4.56 miles - 7.34 km X 2)
Pace: 9'07"/mile - 5'40"/km
I find a much longer bike path on the other side of the
river, heading towards Downtown, partially along I-5.
An excellent run, where I pick up the pace a bit, legs
still stiff from Wednesday's climbing, but relaxing as
it goes. On a future trip, it would be interesting to
start this run at Sonora, see how far the path goes.
Ruksanna is still in Elaruvi, difficult to reach. When
I come back, she has tried calling a few times. Nothing
has happened much really, but she is happy there.
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-- Crissy Fields at Sunrise --
San Francisco: Crissy Field, Baker Beach (8.88 Miles) -- 10/24/19
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Sunday 10/20/19 -- Crissy Fields
Days Inn on Lombard - Scott rd - Crissy fields - Golden Gate -
towards Bakers beach - Immigration Pt -
back, following Mermaid Run.
Time: 1:13:24
Estimated Pace: 9'30"/mile
Estimated Mileage: 7.73 Miles
In San Francisco. Worried by the cold, put on three layers and
a cap, which ends up not being a problem.
Headed to Crissy field, where I find a large event "Mermaid
Run", a run of women, some wearing glittery mermaid-like
hideous tights. I follow it up the hill, but then find
access to the bridge closed (due to this event?). I run
it backwards South along the Coast, approaching Baker's
beach, but at one point opt for a trail inland towards
Immigration Point, stairs that I can't run all the way.
From there, a smooth descent makes me feel good, and
I push the pace back on Crissy field, although slower
than most 10k runners around me, whose pace I study,
trying to understand why my stride is so much slower
than theirs. I finish well and energized, quite relaxed
today, the soreness from last week's steep hill run
cured.
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Monday 10/21/19 --
Days Inn - Scott - Crissy Fields - To Fort Point - Back.
Time: 0:48:48
Mileage: 5.28 Miles - 8.48 Km
Pace: 9'14"/mile - 5'45"/km
Beautiful scene of Fishermen overlooking the City
just before sunrise, projecting powerful rays, but
as often I've not taken my phone.
Ruksanna calls me from Tiruppattur train station, she
has decided to take the train back.
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Tuesday 10/22/19 -- Mile Intervals @ Crissy Field
Scott - Marina to Buchanan - then West: 0:17:15 [1.88M - 3.03K]
Intervals Parking Lot to Visitor Center: 1.02 Miles - 1.64 Km
Interval I: 8'16".24 -- Pace: 8'06"/mile - 5'02"/km
Interval II: 8'01".93 -- Pace: 7'52"/mile - 4'54"/km
Interval III: 7'53".32 -- Pace: 7'44"/mile - 4'48"/km
Interval IV: 8'05".05 -- Pace: 7'55"/mile - 4'55"/km
Overall Interval Mileage: 4.08 Miles - 6.56 Km
Overall Interval Time: 0:32:16
Overall Interval Pace: 7'54"/mile - 4'55"/km
Age Graded Best Interval: 0:06:44, ie. 6'36"/mile pace
Cooldown, back via Scott: 0:07:38 [0.86M - 1.38K]
Total Time: 0:57:09
Total Mileage: 6.82 Miles - 10.97 Km
NEW SHOES (OKA, bought yesterday in San Carlos)
Evening dinner with Apurva.
But the Motel has not refurbished coffee when I get back,
too late to do anything. Wake-up at 5 without coffee,
passable at first, but things go downhill, a mediocre
Namaaz, finally, I lay back down in dismay, allow myself some
fantasy, and remarkably, seem to fall into a half dream for a
glimpse. This is enough to kick me back in action, I leave
around the usual 7:00.
I have not worn any extra clothing today, good thing, it has
been getting gradually warmer, if anything, I feel slightly too
hot after some time. I do not know the distances here, but decide
to stop the run at the Farallon Center Visitor Center, the watch
indicating about 8 minutes, thinking this should be around a mile
(later found out that guess was spot on!).
It's another gorgeous clear crisp day, many runners and walkers
and dogs, the sun rising over the city into my eyes running East.
Remarkably, I pick-up the pace on subsequent intervals, and
do not weaken much, sticking to my planned four repeats.
All in all, a very successful session.
Later, at lunch with Madeleine and Terra, Ruksanna calls (in
the middle of her night). She has finally reached home from
her train journey from Tiruppattur.
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Wednesday 10/23/19 --
Crissy Fields to Fort Point
Time: 0:46:15
Mileage: 5.28 Miles - 8.48 Km
Pace: 8'45"/mile - 5'27"/km
Have slept well finally, got up just before 6:00.
It has continued to warm up, today, for the first
time, I go out wearing true shorts and a single
t-shirt, sufficient.
A relatively easy run, after yesterday's speed
session and before tomorrow's projected long run.
But as I see others running, I am struck once
again by the glaring inefficiency of my stride,
which I lengthen and relax, resulting in a faster
pace (but perfectly manageable, my breathing is
great).
Today, I have taken the phone, determined to take
the picture I missed at the jettie at sunrise. I
do that, but the less hazy atmosphere does not
create as impressive light beams.
Feeling very good on the run.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 10/24/19 -- Baker Beach
Crissy Fields - Golden Gate - Baker Beach.
Time: 1:29:47
Mileage: 8.88 Miles - 14.3 Km (4.44 Miles - 7.15 Km X 2)
Pace: 10'06"/mile - 6'17"/km
Relaxed pace for this last SF run, before leaving back today.
In a hurry to go to the airport, thankfully, as I have misread
my flight to be 14:40, whereas it is 13:15! Luckily make it
on time. I lated realize I've mistaken the flight time for
the departure time!
I am in a hurry to return, leaving the US unscathed, and a
weird impression that, in spite of its beauties, it is like
a large DisneyLand, an unreal world accessible to the few.
My Namaaz, inevitably, as at every trip, has weakened as
time went. But I am eager to get back. I rush to the airport
a bit, thankfully, I misread my plane time and could have
easily missed it. But I leave the US unscathed, satisfied
to flee, as if the place, for all its beauty, had turned
into some large sterile Disneyland, a land of make-believe
accessible to none but the few - and not to me. I long for
Ruksanna during the whole trip, and for proper spirit.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back (9.87 Miles) -- 10/27/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 10/27/19 -- Back
Khairani rd - Andheri Kurla - Link -
EEH - JVLR - IIT - Lake Powai - Raambagh
Time: 1:30:15
Mileage: 9.87 Miles - 15.88 Km
Pace: 9'08"/mile - 5'41"/km
Weight: 68.9 kg - 151.9 lbs
Surah Saba till v 30
The best return so far! The dreaded return to India has
not stricken. Almost to the contrary.
Slept well, good reading, Namaaz (surah yaseen), yesterday
such good time with Gulzar, very loving, evening long promenade
along lake, then Ishaa ki Namaaz in spite of finally falling
forcefully asleep. The best it's been, perhaps because I have
resented the United States of Disneyland, and happy to have
left unscathed.
In fact, the run starts so well that I let myself drawn into
too fast a pace, and relatively ambitious plans. Some people
imitate me on Khairani road, but no big deal, and various
explosions for Diwali along the road. I tire a bit
midway, slow down a little and scale back route, above all
practicing to relax. It's a sunny hazy morning, not as crisp
as the bay area, but beautiful nonetheless. By staying on
the highway, I mostly avoid the Patake exploding for Diwali,
finish the run in acceptable control, and at a good training
pace.
We then leave for a few heavenly days in Igatpuri.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Splendid Hike near Igatpuri --
Half Miles Intervals (7.1 Miles) -- 10/31/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 10/30/19 -- Back from Igatpuri
Powai platform - promenade - IIT far gate -
Vidya - Hospital - Hakone back rd -
Orchard - Heera Panna - Tax Colony - Raambag - Jain Mandir.
Time: 0:58:51
Mileage: 6.67 Miles - 10.74 Km
Pace: 8'49"/mile - 5'29"/km
Weight: 69.1 kg - 152.3 lbs
Weather: 26C - 34C; Humidity 62%
Finished reading Surah Saba
After wonderful nights of sleep in Igatpuri, back home, first
jet lag insomnia, incapable to sleep back after 2am, no
doubt related to being back home and working tomorrow.
I finally do manage to sleep a couple times though, by
usual techniques, and get up quite well around 5am.
Meant to be an easy "get back into things" run, but wow,
my pace has increased substantially! I was trying to find
a 10K soon to exploit this new-found form, but could not
find anything till the Decathalon 1/2 Marathon, about a
month from now. I hope I don't lose it till then!
I feel pretty good on the run, rehearsing verses from
Surah Isra, in spite of the marked humid heat, which
thoroughly drenches me in sweat. Along the lake, a
group of youths hail me I think (I do not turn to them),
something like "goudiya" (??), does it mean something
in Marathi? Cannot find anything that applies.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 10/31/19 -- Half Mile Intervals
Warmup, Platform then LHOP: 0:15:50 [1.71M - 2.76K]
Intervals, LHOP to Wall Break, then to IIT Gate.
Interval I [885 meters - 0.55 Mile]: 3'56".81
Pace: 7'11"/mile - 4'28"/km
Interval II [828 meters - 0.51 Mile]: 3'38".20
Pace: 7'03"/mile - 4'23"/km [*PR]
Interval III [828 meters - 0.51 Mile]: 3'41".78
Pace: 7'11"/mile - 4'28"/km
Interval IV [885 meters - 0.55 Mile]: 4'07".69
Pace: 7'29"/mile - 4'39"/km
Overall Interval Time: 0:15:24
Overall Interval Mileage: 2.12 Miles - 3.4 Km
Overall Interval Pace: 7'16"/mile - 4'32"/km
Best Interval Graded: 828m in 3'06", ie 6'01"/mile pace.
Cooldown, Pipeline to Seepz: 0:29:28 [3.27M - 5.26K]
Total Time: 1:00:42
Total Mileage: 7.1 Miles - 11.41 Km
Total Pace: 8'33"/mile - 5'19"/km
Weather: 32C; Humidity: 64%
Weight: 69 kg - 152.1 lbs
Read Surah Fatir till v 26
Managed to fall back asleep after a 4:20 am wake-up.
Feel good.
After hesitation, decide to proceed with speed session. Doubts,
is it too early, or will this confirm the perceived breakthrough? Mixture
of fear, which I discipline myself to convert into enthusiasm, as races
should be. But always this fear for some reason, hard to explain.
It is hot, humid. Worried about water. But decided to not carry
water belt on fast intervals, instead, drop a Gatorade water under the
Overpass. And start the intervals.
This feels pretty good, although I do struggle, trying to find the
right balance of push versus staying relaxed, and above all not yield
to discouragement under distress. I manage the intervals, actually
encouraged by my good times, although not knowing yet how they
will measure up. As always, weaken on the last one (no matter how
many reps), but finish feeling appropriately tired but not exhausted,
and luckily, no one has touched my water bottle. I cradle it under the
arm, drinking occasionally on the half hour remaining run to work,
which I slowly relax in, feeling better and better recovery along the
pipeline.
Later, doing the stats, I discover that breakthrough this indeed
is!! I have a run PR on 1/2 miles. As always, this good news actually
fills me with fear: Will I be able to keep such good shape till the next
race, about a month from now? And will I be able to handle the pressure
of this new performance expectation?
Never satisfied.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 11/01/19 -- Aarey Pipeline
Time: 0:38:32
Mileage: 4.26 Miles - 6.86 Km
Pace: 9'03"/mile - 5'37"/km
Weight: 68.8 kg - 151.7 lbs
Weather: 31C; Humidity 58%
Another insomnia, like yesterday, fueled by renewed
tensions at work which allows me to read from the Michelet
from about 2:00 to 3:30, luckily, like yesterday, fall back
asleep a couple times, wake up well.
Read Surah Fatir. Exceptional Surah Yaseen in Namaaz.
Then as is now customary on Friday, write another verse
from Surah Isra, just one from end of Ruku. Wake up
Ruksanna with Coffee, off to a late start around 7:45.
Decide for the quiet pipeline route, instead of shorter
busier option. Very low-key recovery run, in spite of
which my training pace is confirmed around 9'00"/mile.
My mind is made such that, rather than basking in
yesterday's success, I freak out that I might lose this
great shape. Success in me, rather than generating
pleasure, only deepens my worries! Cursed disposition of
the Klueger's!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 11/03/19 -- Tempo Aborted
Rajeha Vihar mid - to Maritime OP: 0:25:36 [2.66M - 4.27K]
Tempo, Maritime OP to IIT Gate: 0:11:54 [1.47M - 2.37K]
Tempo Pace: 8'06"/mile - 5'01"/km
JVLR - little Slum - Big Basket - Orchard -
Heera Panna - Raambag: 0:23:04 [2.65M - 4.26K]
Time: 1:00:34
Mileage: 6.78 Miles - 10.9 Km
Pace: 8'56"/mile - 5'33"/km
Weather: 27C (25 / 32); Humidity 78%
Weight: 68.8 kg - 151.7 lbs
Surah Yasin, Surah Saaffat till v 75.
Yesterday, I started my new computer, bought in the US,
painstakingly restoring from different sources (a combo of
email, dropbox and FTP from the website), trying to land back
on my feet. I continue to be fearful, dreading the nightmarish
vision of letters or files being erased in front of me powerless,
which shows how much after all I do profoundly care, and
have been affected by this incident more than I'd like to admit,
exposing a vulnerability I had not suspected.
Nevertheless, I am able to progress again, particularly updating
Qur'an entries, and training journal, and restoring some form
of state to my writings which I hope is accurate.
But paradoxically, this progress
gives me a terrible (and somewhat unexplainable)
access of depression, a particularly hopeless
mood, which I hope the night will dissipate.
But I don't feel particularly well in the morning either.
I am sore, perhaps from the fast intervals, and from the
recent return from the US. Perhaps this good week is finally
crashing down.
I had planned for an ambitious 10K quasi race along the EEH
today (not finding any actual race on the calendar), but luckily,
because Ruksanna has indicated that she would like to ghoumna,
I scale back my plan, opting for nearby Lake Powai instead.
I'm surprised to find a huge Pooja along the Lake, drawing
a colorful crowd at the various immersion points, but I
still start my run at the platform. My pace feels fine at
first (later, I'll realize it's faster than I imagined).
But I soon tire out. It is unbearably hot, the October
Heat having been postponed because of late rains, now seemingly
in full force. I soon admit that I am indeed in mis-shape, and
decide to cut the exercise short, upon reaching the IIT main
gate, no doubt the right thing to do under the circumstances.
I am drenched beyond belief, luckily carrying the water belt.
Why?
Probably a combination of the following: Too much lately,
after the US trip. I am sore and tired, not flowing freely like
earlier this week. And then, the heat is truly unbearable! (It's
not the first time that I fall vanquished by October Heat).
And finally, this might be a self-fulfilling prophecy. I have
been so stupidly worried about reaching a peak shape that I might
not be able to withstand, that I might indeed have lost it!
Well, whatever it is, I am now in crucial need of rest.
In the midst of all this, I have completed learning another
Ruku of Surah Isra.
-- 3rd Ruku of Surah al-Isra --
Formidable Heat, Illness (7.06 Miles) -- 11/05/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 11/05/19 -- Aarey / Old Lakshmi Commute
Time: 1:05:25
Mileage: 7.06 Miles - 11.36 Km
Pace: 9'16"/mile - 5'45"/km
Weather: 25C - 33C; Humidity 65%
Weight: 69.3 kg - 152.8 lbs (WTF!??!!)
Read Surah Saad till v 65.
I was sick yesterday, the usual cycle, beginning with
a severe throat ache through the night, followed by a runny
nose and dizziness. But last night was better, and I more or
less fall back asleep a few times.
What phenomenal heat!! The October heat, postponed
till now, is still in full force, an unbelievable sauna feeling that
leaves me thoroughly drenched. In spite of this, and the remnant
of illness, this turns out to be a really good run, which I stretch
along beautiful Old Laxmi road.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 11/06/19 -- Apna Dhaba ka rasta
Rajeha Vihar (long) - Saki Naka - Andheri Kurla -
Airport rd - Apna Dhaba - Kondivita rd - MIDC Central.
Time: 0:43:16
Mileage: 4.99 Miles - 8.03 Km
Pace: 8'40"/mile - 5'23"/km
Weight: 68.8 kg - 151.7 lbs
Weather: 27C - Humidity 83%
Surah Sad, then Surah Zumar till v 22
Woke up at 4:00, unable to fall back asleep. Still
sick, now mostly a very runny nose.
A hard week, every day, a morning meeting,
and today even an evening meeting. Tired, but in spite
of that, committed to running, try this road again for
variety, which always surprises me for not being that
long. While not trying to particularly push the effort, I
get a surprisingly fast pace, confirming this amazing
jump in pace that has happened recently (which I still
wish I could well analyze).
The heat continues to be formidable.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 11/07/19 -- Tempo Run
Warmup, to Powai Police Station [1.08M - 1.73K]
Tempo Section: JVLR - Saki Vihar - Marwah -
Military rd - to Marol Signal
Tempo Time: 0:24:07
Tempo Mileage: 3.03 Miles - 4.88 Km
Tempo Pace: 7'57"/mile - 4'56"/km
Age Graded: 0:20:35, ie 6'47"/mile
Cooldown, Marol - Seepz [0.76M - 1.23K]
Total Time: 0:41:39
Total Mileage: 4.87 Miles - 7.84 Km
Total Pace: 8'33"/mile - 5'19"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 83%
Weight: 68.6 kg - 151.2 lbs
Read Surah Zumar till v 64
In the continuous curse of this week's bad sleep
and illness, I wake up at 3:30, and just when I feel that
I again will not be able to fall asleep (this affliction comes
in rows), my efforts of pushing the mind into the further
recesses are rewarded in extremis by a nice
dream which seems to repair my brain. I wake up
energized, in spite of the heat that continues to weigh
on things.
Without much time (every day a morning meeting!),
I decide for a rapid tempo run. It is again phenomenally
hot, quickly drenched in sweat, and feeling very polluted,
hazy. I push an ok pace, but tire along the way, decide to
end it at the Marol signal rather than persevering till work.
I later realize that, once again, I have been running faster
than I'd thought. That, and my continuing illness, and of
course the damn heat, explains why I've fallen slightly
short of my goal, but this remains an acceptable achievement.
The challenge in the next race will be to pace myself
appropriately, it feels that I am still discovering what my pace
should be following this abrupt increase.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 11/08/19 -- Storm!
Rajeha Vihar (mid) - Saki Vihar - Marwah -
Military - Marol - Seepz.
Mileage: 3.91 Miles - 6.29 Km
Time: 0:34:30
Pace: 8'49"/mile - 5'29"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 94%
Weight: 68.6 kg - 151.2 lbs
Read Surah Zumar, Surah Mou'min till v 20
Last night, another big crisis, Ruksanna losing
control over Shahid for watching is f***ing phone all
night (and sleeping all day). Bigger than usual. In spite
of this, eventually able to sleep.
As in films, this drama is punctuated in the morning
by thunder and lightning, an unexpected storm. After Surah
Yaseen in Namaaz, I stay some time with her, we talk, then,
asking for her permission to go to work, I set out, thinking
the rain will not last, since Monsoon is over.
Big mistake! It actually turns into a particularly
torrential downpour, flooding in places, exactly what I was
trying to spare my new shoes, but there is no escaping it!
Strangely, my running motion is actually ideal today, perhaps
distracted by this mayhem, and many stops and go's for
traffic and water-log, running feels completely natural and
effortless, perfect. I nevertheless curse this damn deluge
out-loud along the way, arrive at work thoroughly drenched!
My new shoes will take days to dry.
Along the Mangroves (14.57 Miles) -- 11/10/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 11/10/19 -- Along the Mangroves
Lake Powai - IIT - Eastern Express Highway -
Airoli rd - to Bridge: 1:14:30
[7.96M - 12.81K; 9'21"/mile]
Back - Bhandup - Kanjurmarg - to JVLR:
2:00:00 [12.66M - 20.38K; 9'28"/mile]
IIT Hill - to Lake Powai Jettie: 2:20:47
[14.57M - 23.45K; 9'40"/mile]
Time: 2:20:47
Mileage: 14.57 Miles - 23.45 Km
Pace: 9'40"/mile - 6'00"/km
Weight: 68.6 kg - 151.2 lbs
Weather: 24C - 32C; Humidity 66%
Read Surah Ha Mim Sajadah till v 38 (sajdah)
I had initially planned for a semi-long run
Saturday, byt dur to a regain of cold, and a marked
sleepiness in the morning after a week of insomnia,
I've postponed it to today. Probably the right decision,
as yesterday I slept multiple times, as well as through
the night, and to many wonderful dreams. I feel particularly
rested getting up at 5, as if my mind had been deeply cleaned.
I leave early, although last minute equipment
malfunctions delay me a little. Along Lake Powai, a small
crowd in event t-shirts is
getting ready for a 5K, "Save Lake Powai". A very
hazy morning. But again hot. Soon leaving the course of
the 5K, past IIT, and onto the highway,
along the Mangroves, to a hazy rising sun. Many runners
on this section. Birds, haze, rising sun, here in
the dark of the deep mangroves a white bird, but
I choose not to stop for a photo, intent on a continuous
run (but I will later regret it). I had planned to run
through Kanjurmarg, but on an inspiration, as a throw-back
to last year's Marathon training days, push towards
the Flamingo bridge near Airoli, although
there are no Flamingoes today.
I have felt pretty good so far, but do start
to weaken. I am trying some new gels, whose taste
is ok but whose efficiency I doubt (better find out today
than on race day). Also, between having been sick
all week, and this relentless heavy heat, my form
has dropped a bit, and
perhaps my two small bottles aren't enough for such
a long run.
Anyway, I slow down a little, intent as ever
to find relaxation through hardship, and opt for
the originally planned Bhandup / Kanjurmarg road
as a return, which works fine. Back at the JVLR,
I stop briefly to eat my last gel,
before the dreaded IIT Hill. I take the hill very
slowly, at this pace feeling ok, although running is
impeded by buses coming on the road which has been
narrowed for repairs. Approaching the Jettie Park
where the 5K was held, seeing a free Rickshaw and
having most likely accomplished my mileage goal,
I throw the towel.
Not exactly a failure, but not a great run
either. A combination of left-over illness, slight
detraining for distance, and this formidable heat,
for which I should consider carrying more water,
reverting back to the old bigger bottles belt.
Excellence (8.42 Miles) -- 11/14/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 11/12/19 -- Pipeline Commute
Time: 0:37:03
Mileage: 4.26 Miles - 6.86 Km
Pace: 8'41"/mile - 5'24"/km
Weight: 68.7 kg - 151.4 lbs
Weather: 27C; Humidity 73%
Surah Shuraa till v 30
Rickshaws have gone rare again, yesterday,
walked back from work at a fast pace, feeling the
heavy polluted air, unfortunately getting dizzy along
the way, and very sweaty (still enjoyed the walk
somehow), which left me no strength for Ishaa
ki Namaaz.
But this morning, wake up well to the sound
of Aadhan (around 5:30), pray all three rukus I know
of Surah al-Isra in a prolonged Namaaz which catches
up last evenings miss. I feel good in the strength of our
love, and leave around 7:15, in a slight hurry for a morning
meeting, choosing the moderate (and relatively
traffic free) pipeline route. I still feel a bit heavy in
the chest, but the run progresses nicely, especially
past the slum and along the pipeline, and I end up
very satisfied with my pace, held in relative comfort.
It feels that, uncharacteristically, my speed is
up but my endurance is down. Need to balance before
the next Half Marathon.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 11/13/19 -- 2 Miles Intervals
Warmup: Lake Homes - Heera Pana - Powai Police -
to LakeHomes OP: 0:19:02
Intervals, Lakehomes OP to IIT Main Gate and Back
[2.12 Miles - 3.42 Km]
Interval I: 16'50".18 [Pace: 7'56"/mile - 4'55"km][**PR]
Interval II: 17'05".87 [Pace: 8'04"/mile - 5'00"/km]
Overall Interval Time: 0:33:56
Overall Interval Mileage: 4.24 Miles - 6.84 Km
Overall Interval Pace: 8'00"/mile - 4'57"/km
Age Graded Best Interval: 0:14:22 ie. 6'46"/mile pace
Cooldown: Lakehomes OP to Nahar: 0:11:02
Warmup / Cooldown Mileage: 3.32 Miles - 5.35 Km
Total Time: 1:04:00
Total Mileage: 7.56 Miles - 12.19 Km
Total Pace: 8'28"/mile - 5'15"/km
Weight: 68.8 kg - 151.7 lbs
A lethargic start, after half waking up with the alarm
at 5:00. Read Surah Shurah, Surah Zukhruf till v 15,
then 3 Rukus of Surah al-Isra in Namaaz. I don't
feel particularly good once outside, still half asleep
and somewhat lethargic, and still suffering from the
heat (which just doesn't seem to abate!), feeling
polluted, congested, etc., with increasing thoughts
of perhaps leaving this cursed city. I nevertheless embark
on the planned 2 miles intervals, having to carry the
water belt which seems indispensable under this
climate (I don't like it, but what choice is there?).
I feel pretty good at first, feeling an agile
springy stride, and hold pretty well on the first
lap. The second one makes me struggle reasonably,
but I do not relent, and even though I feel I let myself
slow a little, my pace ends up not diminishing that
much. Two intervals feels enough though, and as
usual, I am completely drenched in sweat!
But later in the day (we've gone to Kokilaben
in the morning), doing the numbers, I realize this
was another exceptional run. I have once again
obtained a PR at this distance (previous being in
Dec 2018), confirming a great bump in speed.
Let's hope this translates into a great
race on the next half marathon...
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 11/14/19 -- Excellent Run
Aarey - Beautiful Laxmi - to Royal Palms rd -
Marol - Tunga.
Time: 1:19:22
Mileage: 8.42 Miles - 13.56 Km
Pace: 9'25"/mile - 5'51"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 57%
Weight: 68.6 kg - 151.2 lbs
Spent a portion of the night trapped in a multi-episode
nightmare, from which I could no extricate myself by waking
up. As a climax to this oppressive saga, I enter a room, I have
been warmed of the enemies and how to scout for them,
armed with a steel plate, just when I think I have omitted
looking in that particular corner, I indeed do get attacked,
(but is it me, or am I a woman?), an arm trying to stab me
with a syringe, I think I may gain control fighting back with
the steel plate, but no, the enemy does puncture my skin
to inject in me his lethal whatever. It's about 2am.
I wake up again around 4, luckily, with not much time
before alarm, manage to push myself into the half-dream
visions, enough to clear the mind. I feel good.
I read Surah Zukhruf till v 68, followed by
Surah Ali-Imraan then Surah An'aam in excellent Namaaz.
Intend to follow this with Surah A'raaf for Zohar.
After yesterday's speed session, I intend to run
semi-long and relaxed this morning. Once out, I realize
that finally, finally, there is a slight chill to the air.
Is this the long-awaited onset of Mumbai winter?
The run is miraculous today.
In the midst of this excellence, I've started learning two Aayats
from the 4th Ruku of Surah al-Isra (which continue to
develop the commandment verses from Surah al-An'aam).
I feel perfectly relaxed, easy and smooth, charmed
by the subtly cooler air, basking in the warm morning light,
finding solace beauty and peace along Laxmi road, away
from traffic, where a few walkers or morning Yoga practicers
treat me with respect.
We're all having a great morning.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Khajour, the road to Adarsh Nagar (13.49 Miles) -- 11/17/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 11/17/19 -- Khajour, the road to Adarsh Nagar
Lake Powai - JVLR - Marol Maroshi - Aarey - NZ Hostel -
To Aarey North End - Back, inside road - Royal Palms rd -
Adarsh Nagar "Mountain rd" - Trail down to Old Laxmi
studio - Through Royal Palms rd Slum - Aarey - Lake
Powai - Back.
Time: 2:10:04
Mileage: 13.49 Miles - 21.7 Km
Pace: 9'38"/mile - 6'00"/km
Weight: 69 kg - 152.1 lbs
Weather: 26C - 34C; Humidity 48%
Surah Ahqaaf
A most excellent run!
In fact, it hardly gets better than today. This
is what a long training run should feel like. Near
perfection.
Yesterday, PSA result, excellent, it has continued
to dip till 0.008. We met Dr Pranav at Kokilaben.
I had planned on a near repeat of last week's run,
thinking even to take the photos I missed last week (if
available), but early in the morning (around 4:30),
as often, the road
imposes itself with unmistakable clarity: I should
run through Aarey today, in spite of the hills. This
choice will turn out perfect.
I leave a little earlier around 6:15, right before
day break, cautiously navigating the dark streets. Two
important innovations today: I have reverted to the
big bottles belt, carrying more water than
last week. Also, I have taken Khajour (dates) in a
plastic pouch to eat on the run, rather than the gels.
We'll see how this works.
What a difference from last week! The temperature
feels a little milder, and I quickly realize I am perfectly
relaxed in the effort, effortless actually, well within
my limits. I am not sure what the distance will be, but
decide to limit distance and hills by starting directly
on the JVLR highway, which at this hour is fine. From
there I soon venture into beautiful Aarey Forest, the
NZ Hostel road by the Lotus Pond, which is busy with
walkers and runners. I start eating the Khajour as I
approach the northern end of Aarey, three at a time.
This will turn out quasi-miraculous! What a perfect
food, and how is it that I have not thought of it
before?
I turn back into the small village roads through the
forest, then to Royal Palms entrance. Even past the
mid-way mark, and in spite of small climbs, I still
feel just about perfect, night and day compared to
last week, running well within my limits.
This excellence makes me brave. I decide to run
the road up the hill through the small slum villages
of Adarsh Nagar, which I have only run once before
on a similarly inspired run. I fear the dogs a little,
but no, they let me pass quietly, I soon reach the top
and into the steep trail descent, through smaller hamlets
still where I'm greeted with friendship, reaching the
familiar Old Laxmi Train Station Studio. Undoubtedly
one of the most inspiring routes out here.
Continuing on this strength, I return through the
slums along Royal Palms road, exchanging friendly glances
with a truck which is struggling with the many pot-holes
on the road. I reach the top of Aarey hill, complete
the run well within my limits to Lake Powai, feeling
that I could easily have run more. A horn blows at me,
it's the truck from before waving friendily at me,
perhaps surprised to find me again so far.
Exactly the run I needed, one week away from the
Decathlon Marathon. The confidence in my endurance is
restored, in sharp contrast with last week, and
very satisfied with the Khajour, which I will certainly
adopt as a natural nutrient from now on (as opposed to
those horrible artificial gels, who knows what's in those).
A near perfect run -
Aarey Pipeline (5.26 Miles) -- 11/21/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 11/19/19 -- Aarey Pipeline Commute
Mileage: 4.27 Miles - 6.88 Km
Time: 0:39:08
Pace: 9'10"/mile - 5'41"/km
Weight: 69.1 kg - 152.3 lbs
Weather: 26C; Humidity 57%
Surah Fath
Am I sick again!???!!!
Yesterday, one of those meltdowns around 6pm,
I return home (in usual horrendous traffic) and
manage to sleep a bit before a 8:30 pm call, feeling
almost feverish. This morning is hardly better, tired
and somewhat dizzy, and preoccupied by a minor
pain in the left foot which I hope isn't linked to
sitting in Namaaz. I fear today's run.
But once outside, I quickly relax into feeling good.
It's a pleasant morning, temperature and humidity
have abated, and it's nicely peaceful along the
Pipeline road and through the Aarey slum.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 11/20/19 -- Aarey Pipeline Commute
Same exact route as yesterday, but faster
Time: 0:37:00
Mileage: 4.27 Miles - 6.88 Km
Pace: 8'40"/mile - 5'22"/km
Weather: 26C - Humidity 69%
Weight: 69.1 kg - 152.3 lbs (slightly high, but in range)
Surah Hujuraat, Surah Qaf till v 30
Was sleeping well inside a running dream when the alarm
rang at 5:00, and could have slept more. Better than
yesterday, but still a lethargic start, although not much
time for that due to morning meeting.
Once out, the temperature continues to be markedly
more pleasant. Along Saki Vihar, again the vision
of a man's body spread across the side, as if dead,
his clothes mostly pulled down, fully exposing the
dreadful vision of his genitals, which he has grabbed
in his unconsciousness.
But I wake up well into this run, to the morning air
and the relatively quiet Pipeline road, which past
the slum is pleasant, with the morning walkers.
Feeling good, I pick up the pace a little, and end
up comfortably achieving a 8'40"/mile, which seems
to be my new training pace.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 11/21/19 -- Tempo Run
Warmup: Lake Powai - to Nature Basket Overpass
Tempo Run: Nature Basket Overpass - Pipeline - Seepz
Tempo Time: 0:29:55
Tempo Mileage: 3.68 Miles - 5.92 Km
Tempo Pace: 8'08"/mile - 5'03"/km
Age Graded: 0:25:33; ie. 6'56"/mile pace
Total Time: 0:45:37
Total Mileage: 5.26 Miles - 8.47 Km
Total Pace: 8'40"/mile - 5'23"/km
Weight: 69 kg - 152.1 lbs
Surah Qaf, Surah Dhariyat
I am sleeping well this week, yet every day waking
up unrested. I also feel subtly sick, mostly with a heavy
chest, and fear the dreadful pollution, especially on the
Rickshaw ride back home in the evening (although this
is still the best way to commute back). I read Surah Qaf
and Surah Dhariyat, followed by a good Namaaz Surah
Baqarah and Surah An'aam. I then make the mistake of
reading work emails (I should postpone that even further
I guess) which puts me in a crappy mood.
Once out, my running feels lethargic and laborious.
Gone is the easy spring from these last weeks, perhaps
an unavoidable contrecoup. Feeling that I need longer to
warm up, and unsure whether I'll proceed with the Tempo
Run idea, I extend to the Overpass near Nature Basket
as my starting point.
I push the pace reasonably on the tempo section.
For the third time in a row, I am running the Aarey Pipeline,
through the impressive base of the slum, and each day
at a greater speed. Today too, I am not bothered by anyone,
human or animal, and feel better and better as the run
progresses, trying to be right on the cusp of pushing the
pace yet staying well relaxed (when this works, even for
a beat, it is immensely satisfying). No "dead man" on the
road today.
Later, once the stats are in, I realize that, in spite
of this annoying weariness, this has again been an excellent
run. And I have learned another verse of Surah al-Isra. And
I am a little calmer now.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thane Decathlon Half Marathon (13.1 Miles) -- 11/24/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thane Decathlon Half Marathon
Placed 2nd of 50+ Age Category
Time: 1:51:57
Official: 1:51:58
Mileage: 13.1 Miles - 21.1 Km
Pace: 8'32"/mile - 5'18"/km
Age Adjusted: 1:36:50, ie. 7'23"/mile pace
Weight: 68.5 kg - 151 lbs
Trouble getting to sleep last night as Ruksanna suffering
herself from insomnia keeps shifting. Dim music from her
phone wakes me up and throws me into a rage, eventually,
she goes sleep in the Namaaz ka Kamra. Funnily, this is
what happened last year before the same race, and the
race will be similar in other points too.
Wake up at 4, and drive to Thane seamlessly. It's
a little fresh this morning (a little), and we watch
the thinnest crescent of the moon smiling at us. This time,
fortunately given her completely lack of training, Ruksanna
has signed up for the 10k, so she leaves a half hour after
me. Here we go.
I remember this course quite well. A first strange
segment along the side road of the highway, small shops
and street commerce, then a steep segment up a hill which
I pass in my usual composed climbing position. Then after
returning part-way, a run through the quiet neighborhoods
at the rising sun, traversing a small village-like setting, like
last year, I love this part of the course, and feel good, running
at an even effort. I drink moderately, and as tested last week,
eat some Khajur along the way. End of the first loop.
The course is repeated, I weaken probably, but find
a suitable pace, letting down a little to not get overcome
by discouragement. One of the run motorbikes has taken
to following me, somewhat annoying, and I end up running
with a 2:00 flag pacer, whom I imagine has been running
too fast (no-one is with him). I am happy to start the last
part of the course, thinking its landscape with lift my spirits.
I traverse brief spouts of discouragement, but do not let
go, only relaxing the pace a little. About to join back the
main road, I finally glance at my watch, around 1:45.
This is not bad, but puts and end to the idea of a breakthrough
performance today. I push the pace in the last few meters,
pass the line and let out a yell.
For once Ruksanna has reached before me. She
immediately meets me, staring at me concerned, as if
in disapproval, as I recover from the effort. She has been
freaked out by my yell across the finish line, I have to
explain to her that I am fine. We stay for some time,
hoping for another podium finish, which indeed
happens: Like at Yeour, I finish 2nd of the 50+
age group.
This is a good run, but not a great run,
and not the breakthrough performance that seemed
withing reach, perhaps because of the hilly course.
But in fact, I later find out that I have actually come
slightly short of last year's performance on the same
course. Nonetheless, I walk away very satisfied,
good spirits restored.
I plan to focus on 10Ks next.
In Between Races (9.04 Miles) -- 12/01/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 11/26/19 -- Aarey Pipeline
Time: 0:38:59
Mileage: 4.27 Miles - 6.88 Km
Pace: 9'08"/mile - 5'40"/km
Weight: 69.2 kg - 152.5 lbs
Weather: 25C; Humidity 64%
Surah Waqiah, in its entirety.
Easy recovery run. Wisely choose the Aarey
Pipeline again, rather than an urban run. Feel
good once I find my an easily sustainable
pleasant rhythm.
But overall, still feeling half sick, a sort of chronic
state that I attribute to the city. Yesterday, another
dreadful commute back home, completely stuck
in the auto on Chandivali road.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 11/27/19 -- Aarey Old Laxmi Commute
Time: 1:04:03
Mileage: 7.4 Miles - 11.34 Km
Pace: 9'06"/mile - 5'39"/km
Weight: 68.7 kg - 151.4 lbs
Weather: 28C; Humidity 57%
Surah Hadid
Very pleasant relaxed run. No speed
this week. This pace feels
perfectly comfortable. Temperatures are now much
more bearable, I have stopped wearing the water
belt for some time. As usual, it is particularly pleasant
on Laxmi Road, the voice of nature offering as if by
surprise a momentary reprieve from the unbelievable
clamor of the city.
Pollution continues to worry me. Yesterday,
another horrendous commute back home, this time
stuck on Raambag. There is no escaping the cursed
evening traffic. Today, I'll walk home I think.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 11/28/19 -- Aarey Lakshmi Commute
Similar to yesterday -
Time: 1:02:44
Mileage: 7.02 Miles -- 11.3 Km
Pace: 8'56"/mile - 5'33"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 61%
Weight: 68.1 kg - 150.1 lbs
Surah Mujadilah, Surah Hashr till v 10
That's it, I am officially sick. Again.
Sore throat, and heavy chest. This appears endless,
incessant, a constant loop. Is it caused by the city's pollution?
The run is very similar to yesterday, feeling relatively
good under the circumstances. Surprisingly at this early
hour, Raambag is already clogged in traffic, making it
difficult to weave through, but after that it's smooth sailing
through beautiful Aarey, accompanied by a nice breeze.
On Lakshmi road, I meet the usual people, gentle, my
polite friend, and this apparently crazy woman that errs
there every morning.
I feel less in shape than yesterday, but am surprised
to find that pace has been faster.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 11/29/19 -- Aarey Pipeline Commute
Time: 0:37:44
Mileage: 4.27 Miles - 6.88 Km
Pace: 8'50"/mile - 5'29"/km
Weight: 68.1 kg - 150.1 lbs
Weather: 27C; Humidity 65%
Again woke up around 4:15, but easily felt back asleep.
Read Surah Hashr, Mumtahanah and Saff.
Surah Yaseen in Namaaz, and wrote the new verse of
Surah al-Isra that I have learned this week.
Feeling every day a little more illness, fatigue and soreness.
But a good run nonetheless. Started somewhat late, a bit
sore, but relaxed into a good pleasant run, opting again
for Aarey Pipeline (in spite of traversing the slum every
day) rather than a shorter urban (and more polluted) route.
It is indeed peaceful and pleasant. A fat policeman at the
far entrance encourages me in Hindi.
In fact, I'm later surprised by my excellent pace, at nearly
no effort. Could this be wrong?
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 12/01/19 -- Mile Intervals
Warmup, Lake Homes - Orchard - IIT Gate: 0:22:20 [2.38M - 3.83K]
Intervals, IIT Main Gate to Lake Homes Overpass [1.07M - 1.72K]
Interval I: 8'15".93; Pace: 7'43"/mile - 4'48"/km
Interval II: 8'17".54; Pace: 7'44"/mile - 4'49"/km
Interval III: 8'28".42; Pace: 7'55"/mile - 4'55"/km
Interval IV: 8'29".20; Pace: 7'56"/mile - 4'56"/km
Age Adjusted Best Interval: 6'35", ie 6'09"/mile pace
Overall Intervals Time: 0:33:30
Overall Intervals Mileage: 4.28 Miles - 6.88 Km
Overall Interval Pace: 7'49"/mile - 4'52"/km
Cooldown, same way: 0:21:01
Total Time: 1:16:51
Total Mileage: 9.04 Miles - 14.54 Km
Total Pace: 8'30"/mile - 5'17"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 73%
Weight: 69 kg - 152.1 lbs
Surah Talaq, Surah Tahrim
Overate two days in a row, hence this weight gain,
just as I was about to reach 68kg. Feel better nonetheless
waking up in the morning, chest less heavy, less foggy.
Decide to proceed with mile intervals idea, in between
two races.
I have carried a Gatorade bottle (to avoid the mildly
cumbersome water belt) which I leave at the IIT entrance.
I start the miles. I soon realize it's again particularly
hot today, very humid, drenched in sweat. My chrono indicates
8:16 which I take as a mediocre time, once again (as every
time) by the fact that these intervals are a little long.
I nevertheless pursue at the same effort, trying to find
the tricky balance of relaxing while pushing the effort -
finding this at times. If there's one thing I've improved
on lately, it's the art of seeking rest under pain. Seems
key to successful running.
Back at IIT, I realize that my bottle has disappeared.
The second set of intervals is similar, but at a slightly
slower speed. The good news though is that I do not let down,
completing all four intervals, all landing within a roughly
10 seconds window, the legal span to validate these.
Once home, doing the stats, I realize I have run
better than first thought. In spite of the illness,
in spite of the heat, and lack of water, this
an ok consistent session, far from a PR, but satisfying under
the circumstances.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Abominable Traffic, Excellent Namaaz (5.1 Miles) -- 12/04/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 12/03/19 -- Sandwich Meat
Rajeha Vihar (full) - Marwah - Military - Marol
Time: 0:39:08
Mileage: 4.42 Miles - 7.12 Km
Pace: 8'51"/mile - 5'30"/km
Weight: 68.7 kg - 151.4 lbs
Weather: 27C; Humidity: 65%
Surah Haqq, Surah Ma'arij
Woke up at 4:20, unfortunately unable to fall back
asleep (uncharacteristically). Feel so-so on the run,
tired, but manage nonetheless at a good pace while
rehearsing Surah al-Isra. Have opted for Marwah
as it is closed in one direction for re-paving (seems
like every single road is being paved right now, but
at snail pace), but unfortunately, some trucks still
take it in spite of the closure, clogging the road even
at this early hour.
Funnily, because I forgot my sandwich meat at home
yesterday, I am carrying it in my short's pocket, luckily
under sealed plastic wrap!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 12/04/19 -- 1/2 Mile Intervals
To Maritime OvP, then LakeHomes OvP: 0:16:16
Intervals, LakeHomes to OvP to Break in Wall,
then to IIT Main Gate.
Interval I: 3'57".05 [886mt - 0.55M] -
Pace: 7'10"/mile - 4'27"/km
Interval II: 3'39".81 [828mt - 0.51M] -
Pace: 7'07"/mile - 4'26"/km
Interval III: 3'44".69 [828mt - 0.51M] -
Pace: 7'15"/mile - 4'30"/km
Interval IV: 4'01".72 [886mt - 0.55M] -
Pace: 7'19"/mile - 4'33"/km
Overall Interval Time: 0:15:23
Overall Interval Mileage: 2.12 Miles - 3.43 Km
Overall Interval Pace: 7'13"/mile - 4'29"/km
Age Graded Best Interval: 0:03:22, ie. 6'07"/mile
Back to Nahar: 0:11:01
Warmup/Cooldown Mileage: 2.98 Miles - 4.8 Km
Total Time: 0:42:40
Total Mileage: 5.1 Miles - 8.23 Km
Total Pace: 8'22"/mile - 5'11"/km
Weight: 68.8 kg - 151.7 lbs
Surah Nuh, Surah Jinn
Yesterday, an atrocious commute! Atrocious!
I find a rickshaw thinking myself lucky, but soon,
we end up stuck near Seepz, and then completely stuck
for the entire length of the JVLR till Powai! I have
unfortunately not recorded my exact departure time, but
this must have taken 1h50 minutes, a new infamous record,
and cost almost 150 IRS. On top of that, I stupidly neglected
to take the face mask thinking it would look silly, wearing the
usual kerchief instead. This would have been the perfect day
for it! Luckily, the auto-driver is cool with things, and I leave
him a nice tip for all this takleef, which he takes
and kisses. Anyway, I use the time to progress learning Surah
al-Isra, but no matter how I try to accept it, the image of
traffic burns a nightmarish vision that haunts me till the following
morning, horrible, grotesque, incomprehensible. How has
humanity come to this?
Nevertheless, I proceed with my plans to run 1/2 miles
today, soon after Sunday's session.
But as if pursued by the same visions, I have to interrupt
and re-start my first interval! Once again, even in the morning,
the traffic does not allow me to run on the side of the road!
False start, unrecorded...
Luckily, once I restart, my pace feels particularly good,
a long flying stride, projecting me forward with ease.
I've tried to contain the effort, but this will still be my best
lap, the following feeling stiffer and more laborious, but
still ok. My fastest interval ends up being my second best
time, but I do break my PR in terms of overall pace for the
session, and feel quite good afterwards, as we've gone
to Sofia's school for Sports Day. They call volunteer parents
for a race, I decline.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 12/05/19 -- Rain
Aarey Pipeline Commute
Time: 0:39:11
Mileage: 4.27 Miles - 6.87 Km
Pace: 9'10"/mile - 5'42"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity: 88%
Weight: 68.8 kg - 151.7 lbs
Surah Muzzammil, Surah Muddaththir
Surprise this morning, opening the curtains: rain!
The sight of a snow blanketed landscape would
hardly have surprised me more.
Very relaxed, recovery, run. No objective in mind
other than pleasantly relaxing. Use the time to
continue to rehearse Surah al-Isra.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 12/06/19 -- Namaaz Excellence
Aarey Pipeline Commute
Time: 0:37:36
Mileage: 4.27 Miles - 6.87 Km
Pace: 8'48"/mile - 5'28"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 57%
Weight: 68.8 kg - 151.7 lbs
Very similar to yesterday, very relaxed easy run along
the Pipeline, partially spent learning Surah al-Isra.
Weather is more pleasant, less humid. Along Lake
Powai, cute puppies, immediately followed by a
group of dogs playing with a dead cat, dragging
it around like a rag doll.
Yesterday, another horrific traffic experience.
Coming back from near the Opera House, it took
us three hours, three hours, to reach back
(it had taken an hour earlier to get there). The taxi,
completely stuck, repeatedly shuts his engine,
pestering that we haven't taken the train, and
eventually leaves us halfway, from where we
call an Uber. Three hours.
In the morning, read Surah Qiyamat
then Surah Insaan, slowly approaching the end
of the book. Then Surah Yaseen in Namaaz, with
a rare intensity. Which often leads me to wonder:
why am I not able to always achieve this
intensity, and what would happen if I did?
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bandra Bhumi India 10K (6.12 Miles) -- 12/08/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 08/12/19 -- Bandra Bhumi India 10K
Time (Watch): 0:50:12
Mileage (Estimate): 6.12 Miles - 9.85 Km
Pace (Estimate): 8'12"/mile - 5'06"/km
Time (Official): 0:51:00
Mileage: 6.21 Miles - 10 Km
Pace (Official): 8'12"/mile - 5'06"/km
Weight: 68.4 kg - 150.8 lbs
Almost late. Better temperature. Feel comfortable, relatively
relaxed. Today, continue to feel in relative control, relatively
relaxed. Am I running a great pace? I feel I'm gradually
dropping people around me. Make it towards the finish in
good shape, gear up for a sprint.
But there, a crowd awaits!
Impossible to run the last stretch of the race (how long,
I will never know). A dense crowd at the finish line, I try
to pass through somehow, but quickly realize it's impossible,
break to a walk, turning off my watch. I finish trying to weave
through this, even walking is challenging, finally reach the
line, pushing and weaving.
Later, waiting for Ruksanna, I realize what happened:
Another event has been scheduled here, a children's walk-a-thon,
which has drawn an abundant varied crowd, largely muslim disfavored
children. The authorisation was given for each event to use one
side of the road, but that has clearly failed, the crowd is
irresistible. In fact, as I wait, this increases still, making
the area totally unpassable, a tempo truck even tries to cross
the finish fending the crowd, strengthening the gridlock.
Our run organizer sheepishly walks around to shake runners'
hands, asking for forgiveness. What could he have done, I reply
nicely, somewhat amused by the event. After all, even I felt good
running today, this would not have broken a record anyway, so
I let it go. In fact, perhaps I have felt too comfortable for
once, having lost the feeling of the 10K pace, and could have
pushed a bit more. Just as well for today, given the unsatisfactory
finish. This is still my second best time actually, so not so bad.
I substract 150 meters from the final distance, but no idea
if this is correct, for once Strava would have helped.
Ruksanna finally arrives. In a sad mood, she has not run today,
walking the whole way. We sit on the rocks by the seashore to eat,
watching the couples come here to take Shaadi pictures in glowing
dresses. It's pleasant today, the temperatures almost cool as winter
has finally set in. I show her out on the horizon the direction
of the Qiblah.
As we are about to leave, a runner tells me that I have
actually arrived in second place of the senior category. Second?
Ruksanna laughs her heart out. So I go on stage once again,
then the official photographers take our picture together.
But Ruksanna is not doing well.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Another 2nd place finish; Land's End --
The 8th Reading (6.76 Miles) -- 12/12/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 12/10/19 -- Pipeline
Lake Powai - Saki Vihar - Pipeline NE, to IIT bridge -
Back along Pipeline to Marol - Seepz.
Time: 0:49:34
Mileage: 5.59 Miles - 8.99 Km
Pace: 8'52"/mile - 5'31"/km
Weather: 26C; Humidity 69%
Weight: 68.4 kg - 150.8 lbs
Surah Buruj, Tariq, A'la, Ghashiyah, Fajr, Balad.
It would be hard to feel better than this.
I woke up at 4:00, and with quiet obstination,
managed to push myself back to sleep to wake again
around 5:15, feeling good. I am nearing the completion
of the book.
It's pleasant outside, the temperatures have
settled into winter mode, gently cooler and less humid,
the air feeling lighter (my chest burden is just about gone
now). After Sunday's 10K, which itself felt well in control,
running feels surprisingly relaxed, fluid. On an inspiration,
I decide for the Eastern side of the Pipeline, a very quiet
road whose dogs somewhat intimidate me. But no, it's
perfectly quiet, a sudden break from the raucous of the
traffic, and dogs and men let me go by in peace. I use
this wonderful run to rehearse three aayats of Surah
al-Isra, steadily approaching the conclusion of the
4th ruku. Almost surprised that I feel so good,
al'hamdoulillah.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 12/11/19 -- Aarey / Lakshmi Commute
Time: 0:59:55
Mileage: 6.68 Miles - 10.75 Km
Pace: 8'58"/mile - 5'34"/km
Weather: 26C; Humidity 69%
Weight: 68.7 kg - 151.4 lbs
Surah Shams, Lail, Duha, Sharh, Tin, Alaq, Qadr, Bayyinah,
Zalzalah, Adiyat, Qariah, Takathur, Asr, Humazah.
Stared in a pretty bad mood, largely because of a new
incomprehensible tax alert yesterday, which makes me fear
yet another upcoming cataclysm! This lead to a particularly
poignant Namaaz yesterday evening.
I feel my body is stiffening a bit finally after the 10K,
but once out, the weather again very pleasant, after the
usual "1000 obstacles course" through Powai, I relax
marvelously in Aarey, bask in the rising sun on quiet
Lakshmi road, along with the habitual groups of walkers.
Like yesterday, at virtually no effort at all, I produce a good
pace, and further my knowledge of Surah al-Isra.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 12/12/19 -- 8th reading, the end of the Book
Mile Intervals
To Lake Homes Overpass: 0:11:53 [1.28M - 2.07K]
Intervals, Lake Homes OP to IIT Gate [1.06 M - 1.71K]
Interval I: 7'46".59 - Pace: 7'19"/mile - 4'32"/km [*PR]
Interval II: 8'02".90 - Pace: 7'35"/mile - 4'42"/km
Overall Interval Time: 0:15:49
Overall Interval Mileage: 2.12 Miles - 3.42 Km
Overall Interval Pace: 7'27"/mile - 4'37"/km [*PR]
Age Graded Best Interval: 6'37", ie. 6'14"/mile
Lake Homes Overpass - Saki Vihar - Pipeline -
Seepz: 0:30:01 [3.36M - 5.41K]
Total Time: 0:57:43
Total Mileage: 6.76 Miles - 10.9 Km
Total Pace: 8'32"/mile - 5'18/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 61%
Weight: 68.7 kg - 151.4 lbs
Surah Fil, Quraish, Maoun, Kauthar, Kafirun, Nasr,
Masad, Ikhlas, Falaq, Naas. With this, I have completed
my 8th reading of the Book.
But it being still too early for Namaaz, I return in
the bedroom to stretch at Ruksanna's side. She is not
doing well, and I can feel her despair. I sit up for some
time, deep in thought, not knowing whether to break
the silence or even touch her. Her despair is palpable,
yet I feel powerless, like must have felt those watching
their loved one caught in the spiral of depression. I
don't know what to do, just that I cannot abandon her.
Isolated, tortured by the children, she spend her long
hours of loneliness re-living her years of sufferance,
without being able to break from it, still fighting an
enemy who is now absent.
I finally touch her gently. Contrary to my habitual stance,
I softly allude that we may need some help, professional
help. She rejects this abruptly, as I could have imagined,
mujhe maloum hai mujhe kya karna hai, without
specifying what exactly she means. She sends me pray
Namaaz. This constitutes of all I know of Surah al-Isra,
nearly four complete rukus, which I should finish learning
within a few days.
In spite of all this, I proceed with running plans.
It's a little later but still pleasant, the obstacles many
due to the later hour. Nevertheless, I stick to the idea of
mile intervals, in spite of just having raced a 10K. Today,
I will focus on speed, but fewer intervals.
The 1st interval feels great. I feel the right
stride, hold back a little less than usual, and am able to
maintain a relatively good cadence throughout. My time
of 7'46" seems good, but I won't know how good until
later when I do the stats.
The 2nd interval is definitely not of that level.
Several reasons: the Westbound intervals are typically
slower, today the headwind is more marked, and mostly,
I've pushed a little too hard on the first. My pace has
lost some of its spring, yet I try not to relent much,
carefully dosing whatever remaining strength. My
time of 8'03" shows that I've lost more time than
I should, still, not a bad performance. From there,
an relaxed run to work along the Aarey Pipeline,
fascinated by how pleasant these relaxing cooldown
runs feel.
Later, the numbers are in. This is a shorter session,
but I have indeed broke a new PR, which was kind of the
goal today. A clear objective is now to run a sub-7'00" mile.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 12/13/19 -- Aarey Pipeline
Time: 0:38:02
Mileage: 4.27 Miles - 6.88 Km
Pace: 8'54"/mile - 5'32"/km
Weather: 24C; Humidity 64%
Weight: 68.7 kg - 151.4 lbs
The situation has not improved.
A new dispute erupted overnight. As Namaaz is
late, we stay sometime talking. This time, she says it
clearly, anything can happen, be ready, tumko akela
rehna hoga, and she laments that she has destroyed
my life. I do my best to remind her that this was my choice
all along, repeat what I have often repeated myself, that
at any point, I could have driven to the airport and be
gone, but no, I chose to stay, at every turn and every
crisis, I chose to stay.
In spite of all this, the run is perfect.
I thankfully at the last minute decide to run once
again along the Aarey pipeline rather than through the
streets. Even at this later hour, and in spite of the usual
obstacle course, the air is fresh and pleasant, peaceful
there through the slum, an running feels miraculously
light and airy, effortless. I continue to revise Surah
al-Isra.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Sunrise along the Mangroves --
Surah al-Isra (13 Miles) -- 12/15/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 12/15/19 -- Surah al-Isra
Lake Powai - Eastern Express Highway - Airoli Junction -
and Back.
Time: 1:57:27
Mileage: 13 Miles - 20.9 Km
Pace: 9'02"/mile - 5'37"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 57%
Weight: 69.4 kg - 152.8 lbs (WTF!?!!??)
On Friday night, hoping to lift our spirits, I took Ruksanna
to the Maac Awards ceremony. But this backfires, I can't stand
it, and we leave (thankfully!) well before the end. Once again
here, the sound is so freakishly loud that it shrills into
my brain, near the point of fainting, and the next day still
a headache and feeling off-balance. This is one of those human
activities that I simply cannot understand.
Also, I am preoccupied by a growing pain in the left
armpit, and unusual sores in the back. I test myself for
lymph nodes, but no, there doesn't seem to be anything.
In spite of all this, I wake up well in the morning,
around 5am. I use the stretching time to learn Surah al-Isra's
fourth Ruku's last remaining Aayat, which I will recite throughout
the run, and write later in the day.
It's again pleasant outside, a slight chill to the air,
finally, fresh by Mumbai standards. Around 6:30, it's still
dark at first, but quickly days peaks out, and I enjoy the
rising sun along the mangroves, for once stopping for a few
photos, not having any particular goal in mind other than
running around two hours and very relaxed.
And this is particularly successful today.
My pace feels relatively effortless, and I easily pick
up a little to pass other runners, lengthening my stride. Luckily,
I resist the temptation to lenghten the run, and finish almost
exactly at my time goal. As it turns out, I have nearly ran
a half-marathon under two hours, which eventually amazes me:
A few months back, I could hardly achieve this time in race
conditions. Today, I didn't even feel the effort!
The wonders of training ...
-- 4th Ruku of Surah al-Isra
In spite of Doctor's Orders (6.36 Miles) -- 12/19/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 12/16/19 --
Home Gym: 0:24:45
Sequence: Bar Press - Abs - Flies - Biceps.
Weight: 69.1 kg - 152.3 lbs
A bad night. Very preoccupied by what definitely seems to be a swollen lymph node under the left arm. In the morning, Ruksanna takes a picture of my back sores, does not look good. Will visit doctor today.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 12/17/19 --
Weight: 69.2 kg - 152.5 lbs
Listen till Surah An'aam.
Yesterday, diagnosed with herpes zoster, or shingles.
The dermatologist orders five days bed rest, much to
my surprise. So much so that I decide to consult a
generalist for a second opinion. But as we wait,
I call my mother, who without hesitation confirms
the diagnostic. So at home I will stay.
At least, this is not related to cancer, although
the armpit pain still remains unexplained.
Weight gain is confirmed, still barely within range,
but important to not let it escalate further, which
might be rendered harder by the bed rest. I actually
tentatively plan to run tomorrow, and perhaps still
proceed with Sunday's 10K.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 12/18/19 -- In spite of doctor's order
Lakeside Promenade - IIT Gate - IIT Market - Hare
Krishna Rd - Vidya - Hiranandani Hospital - Central Av -
Ridge - Orchard - SM Shetty - Panch Sristhi - Chandivali.
Time: 0:49:43
Mileage: 5.7 Miles - 9.18 Km
Pace: 8'43"/mile - 5'25"/km
Weight: 69.2 kg - 152.5 lbs
Weather: 26C; Humidity 60%
Listened till 2 rukus of Surah al-Isra, then whatever
I know of the Surah in Namaaz, although I struggle a
little in spite of my efforts of concentration. Will
relentlessly try, as always intrigued by the untamable
nature of the mind.
In spite of Doctor's order of bed rest, I decide
to resume running today. And Ruksanna doesn't stop me.
This is a relatively low key run, and feels
perfectly fine. In fact, again, at little to no effort,
I achieve a pace that would have been unthinkable earlier
in the year.
It is another beautiful winter morning, a little late,
but still relatively peaceful. To change things up, I
weave through the IIT area streets, little slummy houses
full of life,
to come out in striking contrast in the US-like Hiranandani
development. I cross my Muslim Friend, who I've
often seen on the races.
Further, SM Shetty ka rasta is still closed for road work
(paralysing the whole area in the evenings), freeing up
that area for pedestrian traffic.
Overall, in spite of the illness, I feel good, although
the burning sensation has not abated much.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
THursday 12/19/19 -- Tempo Run
Warmup/Cooldown, to Lake Platform & back: 2.74M - 4.4K
Tempo Run, Lake Platform ("Selfie Point") to IIT Far Gate
and back: 3.62 Miles - 5.84 Km
Tempo Time: 0:28:47
Tempo Pace: 7'57"/mile - 4'56"/km
Age Graded: 0:24:35, ie. 6'47"/mile pace
Total Time: 0:54:05
Total Mileage: 6.36 Miles - 10.24 Km
Total Pace: 8'30"/mile - 5'17"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 57%
Weight: 68.7 kg - 151.4 lbs (yes, keep it up)
Listen till Surah Yaseen 1st ruku, then Surah al-Isra in
Namaaz till the end of the 4th ruku, minus the last verse
which is still shaky in memory. I actually debate whether
that last verse should be included anyway, as it doesn't
seem to pertain to the general theme, and the one before
it offers a fitting conclusion. The Namaaz allows me to
plunge deeply into the parenthood verses, a new resolution
has arisen.
I've woken up around 4:40, not sure if I've slept
after that, but I feel great. I have stayed home yesterday
following doctor's orders, and will do the same today.
The burning sensation has
diminished. So I carry on with the plan, today, tempo
run.
This works fine. I feel a relaxed reasonable pace,
loose and controlled, and manage the various obstacles
on the way to maintain even effort. It is again pleasantly
cool, although enough for abundant sweat (needless to say,
I have not been carrying water since some time now). I
finish trying to hold on to pace, in fact surprise myself
at what seems to be negative splits. Later, I find out
that this is again an excellent pace. May I continue
with this level of fitness, or beyond.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 12/20/19
Shangarsh Nagar - Panch Sristhi - SM SHetty (rd closed) -
Ridge - Cliff - South Ave - Main St - Hiranandani Hospital -
Vidya - Padmavati Devi - IIT Far Gate - Lake Promenade -
Singing Fountain Park - Raambag.
Time: 0:58:25
Mileage: 6.63 Miles - 10.67 Km
Pace: 8'48"/mile - 5'28"/km
Weather: 26C; Humidity 64%
Weight: 68.7 kg - 151.4 lbs
Listened Surah Yaseen till last ruku, then the whole
Surah in Namaaz, as is customary on Jummah.
Easy run. Started sleepy, slowly woke up into it.
Later the doctor declares that my rash has dried
up, that I am healed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
KEM Bandra 10K (5.96 Miles) -- 12/22/19
Sunday 12/22/19 -- KEM Bandra 10K
Time (Watch): 0:47:26
Time (Official): 0:47:22 [**PR]
------------------------------
First Case, Official Distance:
Mileage: 10 Km - 6.21 Miles
Pace: 7'37"/mile - 4'44"/km
------------------------------
Second Case, Likely Distance:
Mileage: 9.6 Km - 5.96 Miles
Pace: 7'56"/mile - 4'56"/km
10K would have been in 0:49:18
------------------------------
Third Case, Worstcase Distance:
Mileage: 9.5 Km - 5.9 Miles
Pace: 8'01"/mile - 4'59"/km
10K would have been in 0:49:49
------------------------------
Age Graded Time (using 2nd case):
0:40:41, ie. 6'49"/mile
Weight: 68.1 kg - 150.1 lbs
Yesterday's illness, yet again!!
Tempers my high hopes for today.
I feel the city is killing me slowly...
Hazy morning. This time aram se aa gaye.
Today, no garbari. Start at 6:00 before first light.
The usual route with minor variants. No side routes.
I hold a good pace, not particularly comfortable at
the start, but try to not fall back. After the midway
point, concentrate on not panicking, staying
as relaxed as possible, in spite of the growing strain
and the inevitable doubts. The rasta is not completely
clear, I imagine we need to return to the small
round-about, but a motorbike guy directs me to go
straight. In spite of this incident, I still manage
to hold on to effort, passing or not
losing much ground to comparable runners (there aren't
many). Back on the shoreline, gear up for the final
miles, and the small climb near Sharukh Khan's house actually
provides a welcome change of form, which, in spite of
the added difficulty, packs in energy for the final
push. I finish strong, this time the finish line free
of obstacles. I finally glance at my watch: 0:47 something!!
I have pulverized my previous record!!!!
But I soon temper my enthusiasm, questioning the distance.
I eventually ask a few of the flag-bearing pacers if
they've measured the course. Yes, all believe thoda kam
tha, with the consensus being around 9.6 Kilometers. This
is what I'll use as a final result. Perhaps this would be
a moment to regret Strava, although running free of phone,
carrying nothing more than the car key wrapped in a kerchief,
feels me with happiness. I will not change this.
I wait for Ruksanna. The morning light reveals a hazy
atmosphere, the SeaLink disappearing in the distance, not
sure if this is pollution or some kind of winter
fog. Ruksanna arrives some time later, having
lost any interest in running (she had warned me). She even
decides she may not participate in the Tata Half Marathon
after all, because people will make fun of her for
being so slow. I
persuade her that no-one will make fun of her, but it is
up to her if she wants to run or not.
We wait a little for the dancing to end for the trophies.
I have high hopes that I might have come first finally, perhaps
even earning a place in the Open Category. The latter is definitely
wishful thinking, not even close. Then the 45+ category is being
called, and ........... I finish Second yet again!!! That earns
us a good laugh. Ahead of me, another runner finished in about
0:42, well ahead.
Back home, I do the numbers.
Considering three different scenarios, the news are very
good. Yes, the route fell short, but in either case, this
is still a Personal Record. Will just never know exactly
by how much. This seems to have wiped my nascent cold away.
Christmas Day (9.72 Miles) -- 12/25/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 12/24/19 -- Aarey Commute
Raambag, to Lake Powai: 1.1M - 1.77K (time NA)
Aarey Commute: 4.17M - 6.72K; Time: 0:37:15
Pace: 8'56"/mile - 5'32"/km
Mileage: 5.27 Miles - 8.49 Km
Estimated Time: 0:47:05
Weight: 68.8 kg - 151.7 lbs
Listened till Surah Zilzal. Yesterday, read Torah Berechit
till Chapter 4.
Wake up well rested today at last, thanks to Ruksanna's
care, not assaulted by itching or dry warmth at night. This feels
immensely better. After Namaaz Surah al-Isra (which I am
mastering better), having a little time left, I write an Aayat
from Surah Hashr, whose last three verses I have decided
to learn, as a complement to Ayatul Kursi.
This is meant as a very easy recovery run after Sunday's
10K. As it turns out, I feel amazingly good, so completely loose
and effortless that I'd be tempted to lengthen the run. But no,
I listen to reason, a good decision especially given that I'm
likely to run long tomorrow for Christmas.
Again, feeling better.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 12/25/19 -- Christmas Day
Lake Promenade - IIT - EEH - Ghatkopar - Khairani rd.
Time: 1:32:12
Mileage: 9.72 Miles - 15.65 Km
Pace: 9'29"/mile - 5'53"/km
Weight: 68.2 kg - 150.3 lbs (excellent)
Weather: 27C; Humidity 69%
Finished listening to the Qur'an, till Surah Naas.
I have in parallel started reading the Torah, reaching
Chapter 8 (Noah).
A mid-length easy run for Christmas, exactly as
planned. It's a quiet morning, very hazy (fog or pollution?),
which I again take at a comfortable pace. I have started
learning the last verses of Surah Hashr, rehearsing a new
one today on the run, but forgetting yesterday's verse
in the process.
Not much otherwise, peaceful morning, feel mildly
strained in the last third of the run (but well under
control), wisely did not elect to run any longer on
the holiday.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 12/26/19 --
Rajeha Vihar (full loop) - Marwah - Military - Marol
Time: 0:38:33
4.43 Miles - 7.13 Km
Pace: 8'42"/mile - 5'24"/km
Weight: 67.7 kg - 149.2 lbs (lightest weight since March)
Weather: 26C; Humidity 69%
Torah Lekh Lekha Chapitre 12, followed by Surah Isra Namaaz.
Did not sleep well last night, felt asleep prematurely
after returning from Dabangg 3 (a horrendous Salman Khan
extravaganza, that Ruksanna persuades me that I should
watch, she has seen so often people fighting like in the
films after viewing such crap), which erased whatever
small goodwill I had gathered towards entertainment after
enjoying Star Wars the week before - I digress) then wake
up like in the middle of the night at only 10:30, feeling warm
and uncomfortable. Only good news, I am nearing the end
of the 1st volume of Michelet's Histoire de la
Révolution.
For some reason not hungry after yesterday's semi
long run, I have not eaten much, and wake up today to
a drop in weight, passing under the 68kg bar for the
first time in several months. I leave quite late, no
particular goal in mind, actually fearful that yesterday's
run might have been too much. But once out, I feel good,
a proper longer stride relaxing my running, as it should.
Interestingly, I've hit my training pace of old, even though
I am very far from being able to peak at the same speeds
as before. A consequence of old age to be sure.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 12/27/19 -- Padhai
Rajeha Vihar (short) - Mithi River - Marol CHS
Time: 0:32:32
Mileage: 3.71 Miles - 5.97 Km
Pace: 8'46"/mile - 5'27"/km
Weather: 23C; Humidity 68%
Weight: 67.7 kg - 149.2 lbs
Surah Hashr (15.28 Miles) -- 12/29/19
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 12/29/19 -- Surah Hashr
Chandivali rd - Saki Vihar - Marwah - Marol Maroshi -
Laxmi rd - Small Royal Palms rd loop - Back -
W Pipeline to Aarey - E Pipeline to Triangle River Xing -
Back - Lake Powai - Raambag - Nahar.
Time: 2:24:40
Mileage: 15.28 Miles - 24.6 Km
Pace: 9'28"/mile - 5'53"/km
Weather: 26C; Humidity 60%
Weight: 68.2 kg - 150.3 lbs
-- Last Three Verses of Surah Hashr --