-- Surah An'aam, 3rd Ruku --
Third Ruku (7.44 Miles) -- 10/16/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 10/16/12, 9 Rabi ul Awal 1443 --
Lake Powai - Pipeline, to "runner's spot" & Back.
Time: 1:10:12
Mileage: 7.44 Miles - 11.96 Km
Pace: 9'26"/mile - 5'52"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 67%
Weight: 68 kg - 149.9 lbs (Gulzar: 67.9 kg)
NEW SHOES --
A Most Excellent Run !!
A nearly perfect recovery from the Matheran run. During the week,
the bladder pain has gradually receded, virtually gone by now. My runs,
shorter by design, have been quite comfortable. And the insomnia seems
to have ebbed as well, alhamdulillah. My weight has dipped almost too
much after Matheran, and I find myself perhaps too emaciated on the
race photos, but no sudden jerks in my diet, let it slowly recover.
Yesterday, finally, I bought new Asics shoes, which I had been
postponing for too long (I ran nearly 660 miles on the old pair,
perhaps the most worn, especially through monsoon!). For the first
time, the Mall felt back to normal, all shops open, a sizable crowd
(in spite of the full vaccination requirement).
In an access of nostalgia, I have watched publicités
from the 70's and 80's, uncovering sounds and images that must have been
buried deep deep in my mind (always a fascinating realisation...) That's
all fine, but now I struggle to shake them off!
Today the morning is beautiful and clear, and surprisingly not
so hot (unlike all this week). I take a late start around 7am,
no more bladder pain, but the ever tenacious chest congestion (due
to pollution?). The streets feel quieter than usual after Dusserah.
I was going to run short (committed to a recovery week), but I feel
so good on such a pristine day that I feel called to the
Pipeline ka rasta, which traverses the quiet hills. The trail there
continues to be constructed, apparently destined to be a cycling
path. I cross a few people, and friendly salutes. I feel GREAT.
The new shoes and socks feel incredibly comfortable, running
nearly effortless. The running area (where a group used to
hold short training races) is still under construction, hence no
one there, the trail is increasingly deserted as I progress.
I discipline myself to turn back, to not lengthen the run
needlessly. I do well, the return feels good, just the appropriate
length. This could hardly have been better.
Yesterday, on Jummah, I have finished learning the 3rd Ruku
of Surah An'aam...
-- On Sunday, an extraordinary day-long hike in
Sanjay Gandhi National Park,
to Kanheri Caves and beyond ... --
Along Orchard Avenue (8.71 Miles) -- 10/23/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 10/20/21, 13 Rabi ul Awal 1443 -- 1/2 Mile Intervals
Lake Powai, To break in wall: 0:16:18 [r.4'18"] [1.59M - 2.56K]
Intervals, Break in Wall to IIT Gate: 829 Meters - 0.51 Miles
Interval 1: 4'08".71 [r.3'22"] -- Pace: 8'01"/mile - 4'59"/km
Interval 2: 4'07".21 [r.4'03"] -- Pace: 7'59"/mile - 4'57"/km
Interval 3: 4'03".47 [r.4'18"] -- Pace: 7'51"/mile - 4'53"/km
Interval 4: 4'05".97 [r.2'45"] -- Pace: 7'57"/mile - 4'56"/km
Overall Intervals Time: 0:16:24
Overall Intervals Mileage: 2.04 Miles - 3.32 Km
Overall Intervals Pace: 7'56"/mile - 4'56"/km
Age Graded Best Interval: 829m in 3'24", ie. 6'35"/mile pace
Return: 0:14:08 [1.59M - 2.56K]
Total Time: 0:46:50 (Total Workout: 1:05:39)
Total Mileage: 5.22 Miles - 8.44 Km
Total Pace: 8'58"/mile - 5'32"/km
Weather: 26C; Humidity 86%
Weight: 68.2 kg - 150.3 lbs
15th reading Surah Baqarah till v 142
Wake up at 4:30, unfortunately, again, not feeling well.
In fact, it's so bad I really wonder whether I'll proceed
with my Intervals plan for the day, and consider turning around
before even starting. But I do proceed, and feel surprisingly
good at the faster pace. Particularly, my cadence seems to be
better, and the intervals feel more productive. Still mindful
of being so tired, I do not push beyond 4 intervals, preserving
this relatively good pace, the best this year (but still far behind
previous years).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 10/23/21, 16 Rabi ul Awal 1443 --
Raambagh, to Orchard: 0:10:04 [r.1'16"] [1.01M - 1.63K]
Simili 10K, Orchard Avenue (End to end, last to Lake Blvd)
1st split (3.03K - 1.89M): 0:16:23 -- Pace: 8'41"/mile
2nd split (3.03K - 1.89M): 0:16:50 -- Pace: 8'56"/mile
3rd split (3.03K - 1.89M): 0:17:08 -- Pace: 9'05"/mile
4th split (1.01K - 0.63M): 0:05:32 -- Pace: 8'48"/mile
10K Time: 0:55:53 (Watch: 0:55:54)
10K Mileage: 10.1 Km - 6.3 Miles
10K Pace: 8'54"/mile - 5'31"/km
10K Age Graded: 10.1 Km in 47:09, ie. 7'30"/mile
Best Split Age Graded: 3.03 Km in 13:45, ie. 7'18"/mile
[r.6'01"] Lake Blvd - Raambagh - back: 0:14:10 [1.4M - 2.25K]
Total Time: 1:20:07 (Total Workout: 1:27:27)
Total Mileage: 8.71 Miles - 14 Km
Total Pace: 9'11"/mile - 5'43"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 63%
Weight: 67.9 kg - 149.7 lbs (Gulzar: 67.8 kg)
15th reading Surah Baqarah till v 258
I execute my idea of running a 10K by doing laps on Orchard road.
This works out quite nicely, especially now that the JVLR is perturbed
by Metro work. I do feel pretty good on the run, although not quite
as brilliant as yesterday. My pace seems to have picked up after Matheran
(I ran two 9'00"/mile runs this week without great effort). Today though,
I don't feel quite as easy, and feel my pace tiring as I go. Still, a
good effort, and I hang on to complete the distance.
The stats later reveal a reasonable pace at first,
yet overall insufficient (barely sub-9'00"/mile),
and that I've been slowing down considerably as the run went on.
Either way, I feel appropriately tired after this, and it does
mark some progress. I seem to have aged and declined another
notch this year.
Yesterday, Friday, we went to HDFC to get the final papers. We feel
elated, as a burden lifted off our shoulders. And to continue
in this blissful mood, we spent the weekend
in Gorai Beach, with much walking along the beach at various times of
the day, from dawn to sunset.
-- Weekend in Uttan --
-- Sunrise, from the Hospital Room --
Surgery, Mulund Exploration (12.94 Miles) -- 10/30/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 10/25/21, 18 Rabi ul Awal 1443 --
Lakeside Promenade - IIT - IIT Hill & back - To Lake Platform - Back.
Time: 1:04:45
Mileage: 6.56 Miles - 10.56 Km
Pace: 9'52"/mile - 6'07"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 80%
Weight: 68.4 kg - 150.8 lbs
15th reading Surah Baqarah till end
After a 3am wake-up and threat of insomnia, miraculous back to sleep
by pushing to the deep mind, and to a dream where I cry in Sofia's
arms(!). After that brief sleep, I feel fantastic!
And the run is fantastic as well. The weather has actually been
surprisingly pleasant this month, relatively fresh, and nicely
clear. I feel very easy and relaxed today, and decide to lengthen
the run a little.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 10/26/21, 19 Rabi ul Awal 1443 --
Chandivali - SM Shetty - Cliff - Central - Hiranandani Hospital -
IIT Main Gate - Lake Powai - Raambagh.
Time: 0:46:44
Mileage: 5.03 Miles - 8.1 Km
Pace: 9'17"/mile - 5'46"/km
Weight: 68 kg - 159.9 lbs
Surah An'aam Revisions, and in Namaaz.
Like yesterday, feeling particularly good, in spite of the evil night
meeting. A good awakening, and an excellent run, easy and comfortable.
Feeling relatively fresh in the morning, confirming that this October hasn't
felt nearly as hot as other years.
Yesterday, we completed formalities and exams at the Hiranandani
Hospital in preparation for Gulzar's surgery (which took most of the morning).
It is confirmed for this Thursday.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 10/27/21, 20 Rabi ul Awal 1443 --
To Orchard: 0:10:07 [r.0'47"] [1.01M - 1.63K]
Simili 5K, along Orchard Avenue.
Split 1, end to end: 15'57".71 [3.03K - 1.88M]
Split 2, Lake Bd & back: 10'06".35 [2.02K - 1.25M]
5K Time: 0:26:04 (Watch: 0:26:05)
5K Mileage: 3.13 Miles - 5.05 Km
5K Pace: 8'18"/mile - 5'09"/km
(split 1: 8'28"/mile - split 2: 8'02"/mile)
Age Graded: 5.05K in 0:21:50, ie. 6'57"/mile pace
Back: [r.0'56"] 0:09:02 [1.01M - 1.63K]
Total Time: 0:45:13 (total workout: 0:46:58)
Total Mileage: 5.15 miles - 8.31 Km
Total Pace: 8'46"/mile - 5'26"/km
Weight: 68.1 kg - 150.1 lbs
Another excellent day!
I wake up very well again, sharp. I revise Surah An'aam (pausing my
Qur'an reading), and pray it again in Namaaz. I uncharacteristically
have a morning meeting this Wednesday, so I've opted for a time efficient
5K for speed training, and for that, I choose the Orchard Avenue course,
which worked well last Saturday.
The run feels very good today. Again, relatively mild temperature, and
I feel fully awake. I resist the onset of fatigue or tension as best I
can, finding it relatively manageable, and the 5K distance seems
to suit me well. Unlike Saturday, I end up accelerating quite a bit as
I go, to a surprising extent actually (is my data off?).
My pace is a big improvement
compared to the last 5K (end of July), or over other speed sessions.
And later, Ruksanna comes back from her gym session equally
delighted!! This is an excellent week so far.
Tomorrow is her surgery...
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 10/29/21, 22 Rabi ul Awal -- Lake Homes
Nahar - Lake Homes - Ridge Rd - Cliff - South Hill - Central -
Orchard - Raambagh.
Time: 0:47:24
Mileage: 4.96 Miles - 7.98 Km
Pace: 9'33"/mile - 5'56"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 54%
Weight: 68.1 kg - 150.1 lbs
15th reading Surah Al'Imraan till v 55
Yesterday was Gulzar's surgery.
We arrived at the hospital on Wednesday evening, having to sleep
there for insurance reasons. A small meal is given to her around 5am
which greatly upsets me, wasn't she supposed to fast strictly? I call the nurse
to confirm, she does not inspire much confidence. She says
to eat quickly. I have awaken poorly, and this small incident shows
how intolerant I am becoming as I age, when things do not go exactly
as I envision. Luckily, I fall back briefly asleep, and wake back up
with the sun rising at our window, in a much better mood. The doctor
assistant soons confirms it was ok to eat.
The surgery is delayed a little, she is taken to the OT around 12.
I follow till I am pointed to a waiting room, we separate after a brief
goodbye, a scene that reminds me of the poignant sadness I had felt at
that same moment for my own operation. Even though it's unlikely that
I'll get called for some time, I feel too nervous to leave the room
to eat, but eventually escape to get a quick sandwich at the
cafeteria. This takes longer than I would like, testing again my patience,
and I gulp it in one go before running back to the room. Nothing has
changed there. Two young girls are crying in their father's arms
after visiting a patient.
My name is called, after an hour. I meet the doctor, she reports
that all went perfectly, and shows me the specimens in small tubes.
Gulzar wanted me to take a picture but I somehow do not find the courage
for it (later, I will have to describe it to her several times, in great
detail). The Doctor laughs that she had first forgotten Gulzar's name,
that they had laughed together,
until Gulzar got scared by the intimidating scene of the
Operation Theater. The doctor meets me again having omitted another anecdote,
just before
me, hearing Gulzar's name, someone else had presented himself mistakenly
as her husband! Luckily the doctor knew me!
After another hour wait, I spot a bed rolled in the corridor, get up
to see.
It's her, our eyes meet!! I hurry to her before her name is called.
Back in the room, she emerges slowly. She cannot tolerate water
or food, keeps vomiting. The nurse who is in charge of us seems a little
lost. She doesn't seem to understand Hindi, and her English is rough.
Another nurse comes and we realize the problem, as they both start to converse
in Malayalam. I advise Gulzar to try next in Tamil, which does work
a bit better, but still, the nurse, apparently novice, still seems
a little lost.
The Doctor visits us in the evening. She will not discharge us until
Gulzar can eat successfully. She orders some injection, and for some reason
insists that she should eat a Sandwich, which she orders on her way out.
But the Sandwich takes forever. Several time our nurse comes, "Sandwich?"
she asks, we nod, and two hours at least go by. Finally, around 8 or 9 pm,
the Sandwich is delivered, along with a regular meal (which I am able to
eat as well). Gulzar eats successfully. We should be ready to go at last.
But some guy now tells that the "TPA" desk being closed at this late hour,
we'll either have to pay the whole treatment ourselves, or spend another
night for the desk to open in the morning. I respond by slapping my forehead with
my hand. Luckily, the doctor's assistant appears and promises to solve
the situation, which she does. We now need to wait for insurance approval,
which could take another hour or two.
This eventually does come, and we are discharged. I explain to the
Auto driver that my wife has just had surgery, and he takes uncommon care
to drive slowly on the incredibly bumpy roads of Powai.
We finally reach home (where
Sofia has been waiting all day) around 11pm, in the end very satisfied
with the day.
I wake up with morning Adhaan.
After having taken care of Gulzar and given her coffee and Davai,
I venture out on a relaxed run, continuing the excellence of this week.
The morning temperature is again pleasant, atmosphere relatively clear.
In a small inspiration, I run through Lake Homes for the first time since
lockdowns began, over 18 months ago, and I am let by. I feel surprisingly good.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 10/30/21, 23 Rabi ul Awal 1443 --
Lake Powai - IIT - Eastern Expressway - Airoli Jct -
Navghar Rd Jct: 1:11:00 [7.31M - 11.77K]
Navghar Rd - VB Phadake Rd - Nanepada Rd - Along the
tracks - Mithagar Rd - Dirt Alley - Back to Airoli Jct: 1:35:00
[2.43M - 3.91K]
Mulund Airoli rd - Nahur Train Station - Bhandup, along the
railway - Veer Savarkar rd - Kanjur Village - JVLR: 2:05:56
[3.2M - 5.14K]
Time: 2:05:56
Mileage: 12.94 Miles - 20.82 Km
Pace: 9'43"/mile - 6'02"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 44%
Weight: 67.7 kg - 149.2 lbs
15th reading Surah Al-Imraan till v 102
A Miracle Run!
It's another beautiful morning, mild temperatures, pleasant wind.
This is one of those where it runs by itself. The motion
seems so natural, like a perpetuum mobile. I pass the Lake and
IIT areas to the Eastern Express Highway feeling light and airy,
and reach the Airoli junction hardly aware
of any effort, enjoying the morning, and busy in
meditative thoughts (for once, I entertain big ideas about work).
I decide to push a little further along the Highway,
and feeling so incredibly good, improvise a new exploration,
even though I do not know
the way at all. I venture left into Mulund...
Turning to the left, I find a broad road, pleasant and peaceful,
but this shrinks in stages, until
it just about disappears. I ask my way, people very nicely answering,
in typical Mumbai way. This leads me into the narrow alleys of a small slum,
then I find
the railway which I decide to follow back to the left (mistake: I've
been told I'd find a bridge on the right). My road soon separates though
from the railway, veering back towards where I came from. I again take
a chance in a small road, ask for directions, and am pointed to a
katcha rasta that
should take me back to the highway. This is actually wonderful,
a nice dirt trail
through a vast field. It nearly disappears through some humble dwellings,
which I pass gingerly,
then resumes to lead back to the Airoli Junction. My little
exploration loop ends there, very satisfying, even though I haven't
reached quite where I wanted.
From there I decide to take the Bhandup / Kanjur village way back,
still feeling quite good, eating and drinking from my two pocket flasks
and a pouch of Khajoor. Seeing the chrono approach 2 hours,
I decide I'll end at the JVLR, to not needlessly prolong
this run. I prefer to stop while still feeling good, and not come home
too late where Gulzar is recovering from surgery. At the JVLR junction,
my chrono having indeed passed the 2 hour mark, I hail an auto. I am
much less sweaty today then on previous runs, the weather has definitely
improved.
This has been one of my most successful long runs so far. I felt
easy, pleasant, natural all the way, exactly what a run should feel like.
In fact, the whole week has been in bliss, as if the run in Matheran had
propulsed me into some new state.
Based on past experience, I now need to make sure that this État
de Grâce does not crumble in the weeks to come...
-- Before Surgery --
Along the Eastern Highway (9.06 Miles) -- 11/06/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 11/01/21, 25 Rabi ul Awal 1443 -- From the Hospital Window
Lakeside Promenade - IIT Far Gate - Padmavati Devi - Nana Palshikar -
Hiranandani Hospital - Kanaka Future City Gate & Back - Main St -
Orchard - SM Shetty - Chandivali.
Time: 0:55:14
Mileage: 5.75 Miles - 9.26 Km
Pace: 9'36"/mile - 5'57"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 64%
Weight: 68 kg - 149.9 lbs
15th reading Surah Ali-Imraan till v 190
Another near-perfect run (décidément!)
In spite of an early wake-up (around 3:45), bravely rest my mind
by trying to capture visions, and get up around 4:50, almost
complete reading Surah ali-Imraan. Gulzar is up early too, and
I stay at her side during stretching.
Another pleasant weather morning. My levels of sweat are far down,
which makes the experience far more comfortable. Today again,
it runs by itself, and I am free to wander where I please.
I take the Padmavati route into Powai, and at the Hospital, am
taken by a sudden idea: why not explore the little area that we
were seeing from our hospital window ? This gently climbs towards
a hill, to a temple where the way is closed by a gate, ushering
what seems to be a lush future garden, with FUTURE written
on the hillside in bright white letters.
I return still feeling great home. Pourvu que ça dure...
Later, two nurses from Hiranandani Hospital visit us at home
to enquire about Gulzar's recovery ...
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 11/03/21, 27 Rabi ul Awal 1443 -- Mile Intervals
Chandivali - Lake Homes - Orchard - Break in Wall:
0:20:50 [r.4'07"] [2M - 3.22K]
Intervals, Wall Break to IIT Main Gate & Back
Mileage: 1.03 Miles - 1.65 Km
Interval 1: 8'48".25 [r.4'31"] -- Pace: 8'32"/mile - 5'20"/km
Interval 2: 8'29".81 [r.4'57"] -- Pace: 8'15"/mile - 5'09"/km
Interval 3: 8'34".87 [r.1'51"] -- Pace: 8'20"/mile - 5'12"/km
Overall Intervals Time: 0:25:53
Overall Intervals Mileage: 3.09 Miles - 4.95 Km
Overall Intervals Pace: 8'22"/mile - 5'13"/km
Age Graded Best Interval: 1.03M in 7'08", ie. 6'55"/mile
Lake Powai - Raambagh: 0:16:08 [1.68M - 2.7K]
Total Time: 1:02:51 (Total Workout: 1:18:18)
Total Mileage: 6.77 Miles - 10.87 Km
Total Pace: 9'17"/mile - 5'46"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 59%
Weight: 68.2 kg - 150.3 lbs
Better sleep last night, easily plunging back into dreams... Revisions
of Surah An'aam.
A good session. I feel I'm putting a good effort, yet my pace is
only marginally better than it has been in previous sessions, dating
back to late July! Why so lackluster ???
Regardless, I feel good about today's effort.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 11/05/21, 29 Rabi ul Awal 1443 --
Chandivali - SM Shetty - Cliff - Hiranandani Hospital Back -
Nana Palshikar - Padmavati Devi - ITI - Lake Powai - Raambagh.
Time: 0:56:24
Mileage: 5.6 Miles - 9.02 Km
Pace: 10'04"/mile - 6'15"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 68%
Weight: 68.1 kg - 150.1 lbs
15th reading Surah Nisaah till v 77
Extraordinarily pleasant run, at a slow very comfortable pace.
Good weather. A lot of debris from Diwali's war-zone last night.
A guy falls boarding a bus (which as usual hasn't fully stopped),
I gesture the driver to slow down.
I have created a weight curve for Gulzar, the same way I do
mine, and she marvels at her progress. The next morning she makes
a point of telling me her weight.
All is quiet, all is good.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 11/06/21, 30 Rabi ul Awal 1443 -- Simili 10K
Khairani rd, To EEH: 0:29:29 [r.2'44"] [3.02M - 4.86K]
10K: EEH from Ghatkopar to Powai & back
Split 1 [3.02M - 4.86K]: 0:28:12 -- Pace: 9'20"/mile
Split 2: 0:28:04 -- Pace: 9'17"/mile
10K Time: 0:56:16 (Watch: 0:56:18)
10K Mileage: 6.04 Miles - 9.72 Km
10K Pace: 9'18"/mile - 5'47"/km
Age Graded: 6.04 Miles in 0:47:27, ie. 7'51"/mile pace
Total Time: 1:25:45 (Total Workout: 1:28:30)
Total Mileage: 9.06 Miles - 14.58 Km
Total Pace: 9'27"/mile - 5'52"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 77%
Weight: 68.1 kg - 150.1 lbs (Gulzar 67.5 kg)
15th reading Surah Nisaah till v 153
I have decided to re-try a 10K tempo run along the Eastern Express
Highway, an exercise at which I had failed so months back. The weather
is ok, but not as clear as it was a few weeks back, a bit heavy and
overcast, a polluted whitish haze blocking the distance. I start my
run at the Ghatkopar intersection.
I think I am doing quite well. I settle into a conversative but
sustained pace. Around the halfway mark, I manage to control the calls
for quitting as things get tougher. Above all, I commit to relax under
stress, and resist any panic or discouragement. This works, and I am
able to complete the return at a reasonable effort. I am quite happy
at the finish, and as planned, take a Rickshaw back home, to not
lengthen the run with needless junk miles.
I think I have done quite well, but once home,
I am horrified !! I thought I was running sub-9'00" miles, but the
stats reveal a miserable 9'18"/mile pace !! Hardly better than my
training pace! Unable to believe in such a counter-performance, I
review the data several times, but no, no escaping it, I have run
very poorly today. How to explain this incomprehensible result?
This training cycle remains particularly challenging, full of hopes
and disappointements. Have I grown too old?
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pipeline (12.26 Miles) -- 11/13/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 11/10/21, 04 Rabi al Akhir 1443 -- Hill Repeats
Chandivali - SM Shetty - Central - Main -
to Hiranandani Hill Base: 0:28:25 [2.82M - 4.54K] [r.3'16"]
Hiranandani Hill Repeats: 1.06 Km - 0.66 Mile
Interval 1: 6'20".73 [d.6'01" r.1'25"] --
Pace: 9'38"/mile - 5'59"/km
Interval 2: 6'17".69 [d.6'10" r.2'33"] --
Pace: 9'32"/mile - 5'55"/km
Interval 3: 6'19".31 [r.2'02"] --
Pace: 9'35"/mile - 5'57"/km
Overall Intervals Time: 0:18:57
Overall Intervals Mileage: 1.98 Miles - 3.18 Km
Overall Intervals Pace: 9'35"/mile - 5'57"/km
Return same way: 0:19:53 [2.14M - 3.45K]
Total Time: 1:19:26 (Total Workout: 1:28:47)
Total Mileage: 8.26 Miles - 13.29 Km
Total Pace: 9'36"/mile - 5'58"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 57%
Weight: 68.4 kg (Gulzar 66.9 kg !!!)
15th reading Surah Maidaah till end
In spite of a pleasant morning temperature,
I start this run in a particularly somber mood, so somber in fact
that I wonder if I'll have the energy for the run. But as soon as I
start the intervals, that all goes away! I find good rhythmic energy
in my pace, and manage this hill (which typically suits me) very
well, maintaining a good effort throughout without weakening.
This is a marked improvement from last time here, and positively
contradicts my severe counter-performance from last Saturday.
Still hard to understand these wild ups-and-downs.
On Monday, we got the results of Gulzar's biopsies. They are
all negative. No trace of cancer has been found.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 11/12/21, 06 Rabi al Akhir 1443 --
Chandivali - Lake Homes - Ridge - Cliff Ave - Central - Hiranandani
Hospital - Nana Palshikar - Padmavati Devi - IIT - Lake Promenade.
Time: 0:55:19
Mileage: 5.88 Miles - 9.46 Km
Pace: 9'24"/mile - 5'50"/km
Weather: 27C; Humidity 49%
Weight: 68.6 kg - 151.2 lbs (Argh, but I could see this coming)
Gulzar 66.7 kg (Fantastic !!!!)
15th reading Surah An'aam till v 83
After many wake-up's in the night, slept again after 4am
to deep dreams, one of which involves deep civil unrest.
Striking! Strangely, getting up later (around 5:05) does not
suit me well, feeling somewhat disoriented and anxious, and
unable to focus on the reading of Surah An'aam. Luckily, I
turn this around while praying Surah Yaseen on this Jummah
ka Din.
My weight has increased more forcefully, which doesn't
surprise me. Gulzar's diet however, is going wonderfully well,
making me so happy (I have started plotting her weight like I
do mine, and regularly show her her beautiful progress...)
I embark on the run a little disheartened, and later than
usual (after 7am).
But it's another fresh beautiful morning, and I quickly
settle into a great pleasant pace, seemingly finding excellent
form in my stride. Through Lakehomes, I stop to give 10 rupees
to the old lady in front of the Temple, as if resuming
my pre-covid practice of giving alms after Jummah ki Namaaz.
The run ends up particularly wonderful, excellent pace,
at an excellent relaxed effort, which allows me to continue
to rehearse verses of Surah An'aam.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 11/13/21, 07 Rabi al Akhir 1443 -- Divine Pipeline
Lake Powai - Saki Vihar - Pipeline, to Renaissance [2.44M - 3.92K]
1st Lap: Renaissance to Construction, back to Bridge [3.64M - 5.86K]
2nd Lap: Bridge to Bhandup Gate, back to Renaissance [3.74M - 6.02K]
Back same way [2.44M - 3.92K]
Time: 2:03:20
Mileage: 12.26 Miles - 19.72 Km
Pace: 10'03"/mile - 6'15"/km
Weather: 30C; Humidity 53%
Weight: 68.2 kg - 150.3 lbs (Gulzar: 67.7 kg)
15th reading Surah An'aam till end
Like yesterday, an awkward start, not feeling well, and
unattentive in Namaaz. I feel bad in the first part of the run,
laborious and heavy. This seems to be the theme this week.
But again, that completely reverses once on the Pipeline trail!!
There, in nature, away from traffic and noise,
on this pleasantly fresh morning, I find my
pace beautifully, and run one of my best runs this year. A few
people recognize me, after a long time, I stop briefly to
converse in Hindi. They confirm that the road is being built up
to become a jogging/cycling track (no vehicles).
Feeling so wonderfully easy, I decide to run the
distance twice, (postponing the intimidating plan of returning
through the hill slums), and continue on that same fluid pace,
without seeming to slow down. I am eating again Kajur and one
flask of water. I hardly feel any weariness, pain, or stress,
wonderfully relaxed and easy of breath. Leaving the place,
through the small slum that starts the road, I master a couple
barking dogs, to the friendly amusement of the slumdwellers.
I return home easily, finishing still in good control.
I have liked this so much that I resolve to take Gulzar here
for a walk tomorrow.
This week, I have finished Le Père Goriot de Balzac,
and returned to Chateaubriand (Atala) whose language seems luminous
in comparison - fascinated by his writings, and wondering what took
me so long to discover them.
Heat (8.61 Miles) -- 11/19/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 11/16/21, 10 Rabi al Akhir 1443 --
Chandivali - SM Shetty - Cliff - Central - Hiranandani Hosp - IIT Market -
JVLR - Lake Blvd - Orchard - Lake Homes - Nahar.
Time: 0:48:24
Mileage: 5.21 Miles - 8.39 Km
Pace: 9'17"/mile - 5'46"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 71%
Weight: 68.2 kg - 150.3 lbs (brought back in control?)
Gulzar: 66.5 kg (fantastic progress!!)
15th reading Surah A'raaf till v 158
Feeling similar to yesterday, a little beat-up still, starting
the run laboriously. These days have felt a lot warmer
again, and an oppressive polluted overcast. But I nevertheless
relax into the run, and careful to not drop pace too much, end
up running a faster training pace. Very satisfying in the end.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 11/17/21, 11 Rabi al Akhir 1443 --
Nahar - Lakehomes - Orchard - IIT Market - Padmavati Devi -
IIT Far Gate - Lake Powai - Raambagh.
Time: 0:47:06
Mileage: 5.06 Miles - 8.14 Km
Pace: 9'18"/mile - 5'47"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 67%
Weight: 68.2 kg - 150.3 lbs
Gulzar: 66.5 kg
15th reading Surah A'raaf till end
Feeling pretty shitty this morning. Woke up at 3:30, and couldn't
really sleep back (which hadn't happened in a while). Struggle to
focus on anything, not feeling well. I abandon my plans for a
metered tempo run, but still stubbornly embark on a fast paced
run. But this ends up disappointing, actually, my pace is roughly
the same as yesterday but at a more laborious effort!! A run to
forget... Perhaps if I don't tell anyone (including myself)
that this was supposed
to be Tempo, it will all be fine ???
It has felt hot, heavy and polluted this week. Oppressive weather.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 11/18/21, 12 Rabi al Akhir 1443 --
Chandivali - SM Shetty - Cliff - Hiranandani Hosp. - Nana Palshikar -
Padmavati Devi - IIT Far Gate - Lake Promenade - Raambagh.
Time: 0:52:33
Mileage: 5.62 Miles - 9.03 Km
Pace: 9'22"/mile - 5'49"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 79%
Weight: 67.8 kg - 149.5 lbs (Did not expect this weight loss)
Gulzar: 66.3 kg (Absolutely Extraordinary!!!)
15th reading Surah Anfal till v 45
The morning review got cancelled this morning (due to Brad's Covid!).
So I decide for an unusual run on a Thursday, which I would normally
take off. But it is a questionable move, would I have been better off
resting anyway, given how I've been struggling all week?
The run is in keeping with this lackluster week, somewhat laborious,
struggling to find good pace and effort. I nevertheless keep it around
the same length (is this another mistake?), and do my best to find
relaxation. The sweltering heat is definitely not helping, for some
reason, this month of November, after a pleasant start, has become
oppressively hot and humid, like October normally would. In fact
last night heat storms and a slight rain were heard.
Time will tell whether this was one run too many or not.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 11/19/21, 13 Rabi al Akhir 1443 --
Chandivali - Lake Homes, to Orchard/JVLR: 0:13:38
[1.3M, 2.09K] [r.4'50"]
10K run, Orchard full X 2, Orchard to Lake Blvd X 2
1st Lap [1.89M, 3.04K]: 16'44".83 -- Pace: 8'51"/mile - 5'30"/km
2nd Lap [1.89M, 3.04K]: 16'52".59 -- Pace: 8'55"/mile - 5'32"/km
3rd Lap [1.26M, 2.03K]: 11'26".77 -- Pace: 9'04"/mile - 5'37"/km
4th Lap [1.26M, 2.03K]: 11'24".81 -- Pace: 9'03"/mile - 5'37"/km
10K Time: 0:56:28 (watch: 0:56:30)
10K Mileage: 6.3 Miles - 10.14 Km
10K Pace: 8'57"/mile - 5'34"/km
Age Adjusted Best Lap: 1.89 M in 0:14:03, ie. 7'26"/mile pace
Age Adjusted 10K: 10.14 Km in 0:47:38, ie. 7'33"/mile pace
Back, via Raambagh: [r.5'19"] 0:10:07 [1.01M, 1.63K]
Total Time: 1:20:13 (Total Workout: 1:30:24)
Total Mileage: 8.61 Miles - 13.86 Km
Total Pace: 9'19"/mile - 5'47"/km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 81%
Weight: 67.9 kg - 149.7 lbs (Excellent recovery)
Gulzar: 66.2 kg (Unbelievable, fantastic control!!)
15th reading Surah Taubah till v 25
As predicted (self fulfilling prophecy?), this has been a challenging
week after last week's excellence, and I fear this run. I should probably
have taken additional rest days, but as often have stupidly done the opposite,
not a single off day so far. I have resolved to run another simili 10K
along Orchard, but my confidence is rather low, I fear another disappointement.
Indeed, I wake up early around 4:30, like all week, not feeling very
sharp, and the oppressive heat (even in the morning) does not help! I start
the run feeling laborious, weighted by uneasy digestion. Only good news, both
Gulzar and I are managing our diet very well. I run through Lake Homes
on this Jummah ka din, offering on the way a 10 rs coin to the
Budi in front of the Mandir . It is so damn hot and humid that
this easy warmup run has already covered me in sweat!
But the tempo section will thankfully unfold much better than feared.
I find a good pace, commit to stay as relaxed as possible (like a game
of "whack-a-mole"), and methodically shove away all temptations to
abandon. I am able to control the run, fatigue discouragement and all, and end
up completing the distance with an acceptable slow-down (within 10' per mile).
As I recover from the run, thoroughly drenched in sweat, a bystander
asks my name. He owns a shop in the slum alleys behind Hiranandani Hospital
where he has seen me run often, but feared talking to me. Our small
conversation in Hindi further improves my satisfaction with the day.
This pace of just under 9'00"/mile would seem slow (it would normally
be my training pace), but under the circumstances, this year, it's a good
achievement, which I have to take as it comes. Much better at least than
the last 10K I had attempted, and I feel appropriately fatigued and energized,
a great way to end this week. We then take a long week-end to Panvel,
discovering a new promising area in Kharghad, even closer to home.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ghatkopar Chembur Vikhroli Powai (12.35 Miles) -- 11/27/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 11/24/21, 18 Rabi al Akhar 1443 -- 1/2 Mile Intervals
To Break-in-Wall: 0:18:36 [1.82M, 2.92K] [r.2'10"]
1/2 Miles, Wall to Main Gate: 820 meters - 0.51 Miles
Interval 1: 4'00".67 [r.2'42"] -- Pace: 7'50"/mile - 4'52"/km
Interval 2: 4'04".33 [r.3'09"] -- Pace: 7'58"/mile - 4'57"/km
Interval 3: 4'01".57 [r.3'37"] -- Pace: 7'52"/mile - 4'53"/km
Interval 4: 4'06".09 [r.1'44"] -- Pace: 8'02"/mile - 4'59"/km
Overall Intervals Time: 0:16:11
Overall Intervals Mileage: 2.04 Miles - 3.28 Km
Overall Intervals Pace: 7'56"/mile - 4'56"/km
Age Graded Best Interval: 820m in 3'21", ie. 6'34"/mile pace
Back: 0:15:45 [1.65M, 2.65K]
Total Time: 0:50:32 (Total Workout: 1:03:57)
Total Mileage: 5.51 Miles - 8.85 Km
Total Pace: 9'10"/mile - 5'42"/km
Weather: 29C; Humidity 81%
Weight: 68 kg - 149.9 lbs
Gulzar: 66.8 kg
15th reading Surah Yunus till v 30
Wake up well around 4:40, and set out on this speed session, in spite
of not having much time. The JVLR continues to be eaten up by roadwork, but
this section feels relatively ok. The weather continues to be very hot and
humid, causing abundant sweat even in Namaaz. I embark on this run without
water, and sweat profusely!
It's a good session. I feel a good effort, and am able to hold the pace
within range. There is however little progress, in fact, this is almost
identical to the same session a month ago. Perhaps the heat plays a role
in this lack of progress. Or of course age...
Still, a satisfying session.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 11/26/21, 20 Rabi al Akhir 1443 --
Chandivali - Lake Homes - Orchard - JVLR - IIT Market - Hiranandani Hosp -
Main - Central - High - South Hill - SM Shetty - Chandivali.
Time: 0:49:38
Mileage: 5.34 Miles - 8.6 Km
Pace: 9'17"/mile - 5'46"/km
Weight: 68.1 kg - 150.1 lbs
Gulzar: 66.3 kg (great recovery)
Weather: 28C; Humidity 75%
15th reading Surah Hud till v 50
Up at 4:18. Have been again feeling sick, slight sore throat, congestion,
sneezing (again!). In spite of that, a wonderful run. Feel particularly
easy and comfortable, perhaps the weather is milder, and a good springy
pace in spite of the somewhat hilly route.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 11/27/21, 21 Rabi al Akhir 1443 --
Khairani rd E. - Andheri Ghatkopar (small rd) - Navroji Ln -
Mahatma Gandhi Rd - Ghatkopar Mahul rd - EEH: 0:33:30 [3.65M, 5.88K]
EEH @ Chembur - EEH @ Vikhroli: 1:09:49 [7.48M, 12.04K]
Tagore Nagar - IIT Hill - JVLR - Lake Homes - Chandivali:
1:59:21 [12.35M, 19.87K]
Time: 1:59:21
Mileage: 12.35 Miles - 19.87 Km
Pace: 9'39"/mile - 6'00"/km
(Chembur split: 9'10"/mile - Vikhroli split: 9'20"/mile)
Age Graded: 12.35 Miles in 1:40:54, ie. 8'10"/mile pace
Weather: 28C; Humidity 68%
Weight: 67.9 kg - 149.7 lbs
Gulzar: 66 kg (A new milestone !!!)
15th reading Surah Yusuf till v 50
My plan was to do a 10 Mile run with 5K tempo sections.
But this new cold has been worsening, particularly in the evenings,
to the point where I wonder whether I should run at all. That option
seeming impossible to me for some reason, I still go out, but scale
back my plans, opting for a more moderate endurance run. This will
work out fantastically well, and at a good pace.
It is perhaps a little cooler this morning, finally. I soon
find out that I am feeling very good on the run actually, like
yesterday. This leads me to try a rarely frequented course.
Through Ghatkopar, I reach the Eastern Expressway in Chembur,
then head North along the service roads, passing the slums that
flank the highway, where the activity always fascinates. Like the
other day, a dog briefly erupts at me causing me to jump aside, but
is immediately tamed. I feel great actually, and gently push the pace.
Looking for another semi-novelty to return home, I turn into Vikhroli
joining the JVLR through Tagore Nagar rd. I am carrying just two flasks
in my pockets (Water and Gatorade), but this seems to be sufficient.
I do slow down significantly up IIT Hill, deliberately, and finish
at a more moderate pace on familiar Orchard Avenue. To celebrate
this excellent run, I make a point of passing through Lake Homes
to give another 10 rs to the Budi by the Mandir.
This has been a near perfect run. I may have accomplished part
of my goal after all, pushing the pace in sections. But as if after
a truce, the cold take holds of me again with a very congested nose.
In an access of enthusiasm, I finally convince Gulzar to sign up
for next week's Half Marathon in Navi Mumbai. I run to the computer,
but it is too late: Registration ended last week...
Perhaps just as well...
Omicron (9.44 Miles) -- 12/04/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 11/29/21, 23 Rabi al Akhir 1443 -- Airport
Nahar - Chandivali, Shortcut - Saki Vihar, Saki Naka - Andheri Kurla -
MTNL Rd - JW Marriot - Airport rd - Marol Naka - Saki Naka - Khairani Rd.
Time: 0:51:39
Mileage: 5.37 Miles - 8.63 Km
Pace: 9'37"/mile - 5'59"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 54%
Weight: 67.9 kg - 149.7 lbs
Gulzar 66.8 kg (Unexplained weight gain)
A particularly bad wake-up at 4:30, out of a particularly bad having to
give a presentation with no preparation dream (it had been a long time!).
I feel so shitty that I consider not running this morning.
But I do go out eventually, and the exact opposite happens.
I am surprised by a cool breeze. I wouldn't say it's cold, but the temperature
seems to have dropped suddenly, making it much much more pleasant. This leads
me to an unusual route, going the way of the airport in a long long time. The
run feels particularly light and easy. My cold has subdued (at least my nose),
but now it has taken hold of Gulzar.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 11/30/21, 24 Rabi al Akhir 1443 --
Chandivali - SM Shetty - Cliff - Castle Rock Loop - Central - Hiranandani
Hospital - Nana Palshikar - Padmavati Devi - IIT Far Gate - Lake Powai.
Time: 0:58:15
Mileage: 6.09 Miles - 9.8 Km
Pace: 9'33"/mile - 5'56"km
Weather: 28C; Humidity 58%
Weight: 68.1 kg - 150.1 lbs
Gulzar: 65.7 kg (Fantastic, yesterday was an oddity)
-- The threat of the new Omicron variant create renewed Covid fears across the
world --
15th reading Surah Hijr
Another particularly down day today, of surprisingly deep despair. But
this is common. The night seems to have brought some peace, in spite of
the evil night meeting, and things are better before dawn. Fajr ki
Adhaan happens later and later, and I've switched to stretching
before Namaaz. It is still dark now when I set out around 6:30.
Outside, again, I am greeted by wonderful fresh weather. What difference
it makes!! Perhaps my recent setbacks were largely
caused by the hot humid weather. I run very easily, loose pleasant
stride, and a small innovation: Seeing people on the Castle Rock road
(normally guarded), I climb there too (relatively steep), but renounce
pursuing up to the dish whose access seems closed by a barrier (I had
run up there once, soon after our move to Mumbai). I feel wonderful
coming back home, no weariness, breathing easy and comfortable, stride
airy, and rehearsing another verse of Surah An'aam. One of those perfect
Training Runs.
Gulzar is sick since yesterday, slight fever. She insists it's because
she didn't dry her hair, but the likely cause is the contagion my own cold.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 12/01/21, 25 Rabi al Akhir 1443 -- Mile Intervals
To Wall Break: 0:18:36 [r.4'36"] [1.71M, 2.76K]
Intervals Wall Break to Main Gate & Back: 1.02 Miles - 1.65 Km
Interval 1: 8'26".91 [r.5'05"] -- Pace: 8'14"/mile - 5'07"/km
Interval 2: 8'29".17 [r.5'03"] -- Pace: 8'16"/mile - 5'08"/km
Interval 3: 8'30".15 [r.2'45"] -- Pace: 8'17"/mile - 5'09"/km
Overall Intervals Time: 0:25:26
Overall Intervals Mileage: 3.06 Miles - 4.95 Km
Overall Intervals Pace: 8'16"/mile - 5'08"/km
Age Graded Best Interval: 1.65K in 0:07:06, ie. 6'55"/mile pace
Back: 0:15:31 [1.59M, 2.56K]
Total Time: 0:59:33 (Total Workout: 1:17:05)
Total Mileage: 6.36 Miles - 10.27 Km
Total Pace: 9'21"/mile - 5'47"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 60%
Weight: 67.2 kg - 148.1 lbs (Totally unexpected!!)
Gulzar: 66 kg
15th reading Surah Nahl till v 60
The frenzy over Omicron continues, with alarming news
peppered while scientists are racing to find out more.
I wake up at 4am, alas unable to sleep again. I feel
very tired, but nonetheless stick to mile intervals as planned.
I set out shortly before day-break, but lighting is sufficient.
As often, the faster pace actually feels almost like a relief
at first, shaking me up a bit. I am actually quite satisfied
with the way this feels, but my times disappoint. Resisting
discouragement, I follow through on the session, and while not
improving over the 1st interval, still fall well within range.
I thought I felt subtle rain-drops at the start which I might
have imagined, but this does indeed turn into a moderate rain,
very unseasonal outside of monsoon. It has the benefit of
keeping the air cool.
Later, as I do the stats, my chronos do feel better. While
not a breakthrough, this is my best session this year, and I am
satisfied with the consistency of the intervals. No huge progress,
but some progress...
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 12/04/21, 28 Rabi al Akhir 1443 -- Simili 10K
Khairani rd, to Eastern Expressway: 0:31:56 [r.4'27"] [3.16M, 5.08K]
EEH 10K: Ghatkopar to Talaab Overpass & back to JVLR
Split 1, Ghatkopar Jct to Tagore Nagar: 0:17:50 -- 1.91M, 3,08K --
Pace: 9'18"/mile - 5'47"/km
Split 2: 0:10:29, JVLR Jct -- 1.13M, 1.82K --
Pace: 9'16"/mile - 5'45"/km
Split 3: 0:15:24, Talaab OP -- 1.62M, 2.61K --
Pace: 9'29"/mile - 5'54"/km
Split 4: 0:14:44, JVLR Jct -- 1.62M, 2.61K --
Pace: 9'04"/mile - 5'38"/km
10K Time: 0:58:27
10K Mileage: 6.28 Miles - 10.12 Km
10K Pace: 9'17"/mile - 5'46"/km
Age Graded: 10.12K in 49'19", ie. 7'50"/mile pace
Total Time: 1:30:23 (Total Workout: 1:34:51)
Total Mileage: 9.44 Miles - 15.2 Km
Total Pace: 9'34"/mile - 5'56"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 84%
Weight: 67.8 kg - 149.5 lbs
Gulzar: 66.2 kg
15th reading Surah Isra
I return to the Eastern Express Highway for a 10K, as yardstick
of sorts. Today, a small variation on the course, which I think I'll
keep from now on.
I woke up again too early around 4:30, but feeling better than
yesterday. I set out at first light, the weather is reasonably cool,
but the unseasonal rains have stopped.
I feel a good effort on the run, committed as usual to try to relax
under stress. But something about my stride doesn't quite click, as if
I could no longer push it to its full extension, or looseness. I feel my
legs are old, and the motion somewhat awkward, unable to free them up.
I keep to the effort though, managing the distance as best I can,
but my pace continues to disappoint - only now I have grown used to it
and know what to expect. Whether I like it or not, this is the new
reality, I can't even muster a 9'00"/mile pace on a 10K! I guess this
gives me a tangible goal (if greatly reduced) for the weeks ahead. And this
course is a good yard-stick which I plan to repeat, although perhaps
in reverse, as most of the run today was against a headwind.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Surah An'aam, 4th Ruku --
4th Ruku (6.93 Miles) -- 12/11/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 12/08/21, 03 Jumada al Awwal 1443 -- Hill Repeats
To Base of Hiranandani Hill: 0:29:11 [r.1'10"] [2.81M, 4.53K]
Hiranandani Hill Repeats: 1.07 Km - 0.66 Mile
Interval 1: 6'10".13 [d.6'27"][r.1'03"] -- Pace: 9'16"/mile - 5'45"/km
Interval 2: 6'09".23 [r.0'49"] -- Pace: 9'14"/mile - 5'44"/km
Overall Intervals Time: 0:12:19
Overall Intervals Mileage: 1.32 Miles - 2.14 Km
Overall Intervals Pace: 9'15"/mile - 5'45"/km
Back: 0:19:29 [2.14M, 3.44K]
Total Time: 1:07:26
Total Mileage: 6.93 Miles - 11.18 Km
Total Pace: 9'43"/mile - 6'01"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 70%
Weight: 67.8 kg - 149.5 lbs
Gulzar: 66.1 kg
Learning Surah An'aam. Set reading aside to better learn Rukus
3 & 4, which are too fragile in memory.
Not much time because of 8am meeting. But obstinately pursue my
plan of Hill Repeats at Hiranandani. Up at 4:30, I leave early at
6:20, still dark. Street lighting thankfully sufficient.
Feeling good today. For once feel a good full stride followed
by a good cadence as the slope increases, feel that I am doing well,
but won't realize how well until I see old times. Not having much
time, I settle for only 2 intervals, manage to the second one slightly
faster than the first, the effort not weakening. Time to end it here,
on a high. During Monday's Health check-up, I realized how much I'm breathing
through the throat, not only blocking my exhale, but being quite loud
in the process. I practice breathing through the mouth, which does
feel more relaxing. Incredibly, every year, I have to re-learn that same lesson
over and over again !!
I have stopped after 2 reps, finishing well with room for more,
and run comfortably back home, where I find out that my 8am has just
been cancelled, I could have run one more.
Perhaps just as well, this was a great session as is.
And then when I do the numbers, I found out just how great!!
I have far exceeded my previous times on the hill, in fact, obtained
my first bona-fide PR in almost two years!! (This appears so good that
I re-check the data a few times).
Is this finally the breakthrough I've been longing for? Time will
tell...
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 12/11/21, 06 Jumadah al Awal 1443 -- Simili 5K
Lake Homes - Orchard @ JVLR: 0:12:32 [r.3'18"] [1.23M, 1.98K]
5K Run along Orchard Avenue
3K split: 0:15:29 [1.89M, 3.04K] -- Pace: 8'11"/mile
2K split: 0:10:17 [1.26M, 2.02K] -- Pace: 8'11"/mile
Return (Raambagh): [r.3'12"] 0:09:16 [1.02M, 1.64K]
5K Time: 0:25:46
5K Mileage: 3.15 Miles - 5.06 Km
5K Pace: 8'11"/mile - 5'05"/km
Age Graded: 5.06K in 0:21:35, ie. 6'51"/mile pace
Total Time: 0:47:34 (Total Workout: 0:54:06)
Total Mileage: 5.4 Miles - 8.68 Km
Total Pace: 8'48"/mile - 5'28"/km
Weather: 25C; humidity 74%
Weight: 67.5 kg - 148.8 lbs
Gulzar: 65.3 kg (A new record)
I continue to learn Surah An'aam, putting further Qur'an reading
on hiatus. Today, I do reach the end of the 4th ruku, which of
course will need strengthening in the days to come.
I wake up tired, after a meeting yesterday night. Having realized
that the 1/2 marathon is next week, I scale back my plans (initially
thought I might repeat last week's 10K), opting for proximity, and
a shorter distance. I settle for a 5K on Orchard Avenue. I do well
with that decision! I pass the boudi by the temple on the way,
my 10 rs. ready in hand, she had been absent yesterday.
I am awakened by the faster cadence. Like Wednesday, I feel
a good energy in my pace, better stride and cadence. I cannot see
my first lap accurately (damn eyesight) but sense that it might
be much better than before. I try hard to not let the pace slip,
relax, while trying to stick to my new breathing (but fall
back at times to my strange throat breathing). I do have enough
for a final push at the end.
Doing the numbers, I am first astonished by this breakthrough,
think that my performance has abruptly leapt forward, as it sometimes
does!
For a moment, I think I have completely obliterated past times,
confirming Wednesday's extraordinary form. But I later realize that,
while this does mark good progress, it's not such a spectacular leap
from the same run about a month ago. More puzzling is the fact that
this course often yields results that are at odds with others. I seem
to do significantly better here, to the point where it feels out of place.
Is the distance measurement from Google Maps wrong (I've
checked it 100 times...)? Are there other reasons to explain these odd
performances (proximity to home? flat course?). The mystery remains,
and makes it unfortunately hard to fully embrace these excellent results.
Regardless, this does mark progress, even over the same course.
Not sure where that puts me in anticipation of next week's 1/2
Marathon. Let's not get too giddy and not start too aggressively,
caution is key.
The Cancelled Half-Marathon (14.87 Miles) -- 12/19/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 12/15/21, 10 Jumadah al Awwal 1443 --
Chandivali - Lakehomes - Orchard - Wall Break: 0:20:28
[1.99M, 3.2K] [r.2'59"]
1/2 Miles Intervals, Break-in-Wall to Main Gate: 818m, 0.51M
Interval 1: 3'56".55 [r.3'36"] - Pace: 7'44"/mile - 4'48"/km
Interval 2: 3'59".93 [r.3'53"] - Pace: 7'52"/mile - 4'53"/km
Interval 3: 3'55".77 [r.4'09"] - Pace: 7'42"/mile - 4'47"/km
Interval 4: 4'03".89 [r.2'19"] - Pace: 7'57"/mile - 4'57"/km
Overall Intervals Time: 0:15:54
Overall Intervals Mileage: 2.04 Miles - 3.27 Km
Overall Intervals Pace: 7'47"/mile - 4'51"/km
Age Graded Best Interval: 818m in 3'17", ie. 6'27"/mile pace
Lakeside Promenade - Raambagh: 0:14:52 [1.6M, 2.58K]
Total Time: 0:51:14 (Total Workout: 1:08:13)
Total Mileage: 5.63 Miles - 9.05 Km
Total Pace: 9'06"/mile - 5'39"/km
Weather: 25C; humidity 74%
Weight: 67.6 kg - 149 kg (back on track)
Gulzar: 65.4 kg
15th reading Surah Ta Ha till v 25
A difficult day yesterday, followed by a difficult night. I first
wake up around 11pm to a long dream which for no apparent reason worries
me (I unfortunately subsequently forget why). New sleep turbulences lately
make me struggle to fall back asleep, reading Les Natchez by
Chateaubriand. Gulzar has woken up to a concerning cough, and tries
to put me back to sleep. I wake up again in the night, more Natchez, and
finally get up around 4:40. Miraculously, in spite of this agitated night,
I feel quite fine! Oh the mysteries of sleep...
With the Half Marathon confirmed this week, I have decided for half
mile intervals. I warm up along Orchard for once, fresh air, and feel quite
good. The intervals are good as well, under good control, a decent stride,
good cadence, and controled breathing and emotions. I finish the session
with a little slowdown, but quite well. Later doing the numbers confirms
that this marks progress from the last session, but still falling
short from previous years.
This good session seems to mitigate yesterday's desultory mood.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 12/19/21, 14 Jumadah al Awwal 1443 -- Cancelled Race
Khairani rd - Ghatkopar - Eastern Express Highway,
to JVLR Jct: 0:59:29 [6.17M, 9.93K] -- Pace: 9'38"/mile, 5'59"/km
Eastern Express Highway, to Airoli Jct: 1:23:43
[8.59M, 13.83K] -- Pace: 9'44"/mile, 6'03"/km
Back to JVLR Jct: 1:48:00 [11.02M, 17.74K] --
Pace: 9'48"/mile, 6'05"/km
JVLR - IIT Hill - Lake Promenade - Raambagh:
2:27:32 [14.87M, 23.94K] -- Pace: 9'55"/mile, 6'09"/km
Time: 2:27:32
Mileage: 14.87 Miles - 23.94 Km
Pace: 9'55"/mile - 6'09"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 68%
Weight: 67.3 kg - 148.4 lbs (on the lower end, but I feel good)
Gulzar: 65.4 kg
15th reading Surah Mu'minun till v 50
We have been registered for the Ageas Federal Half Marathon,
the only race organized in Mumbai since the beginning of the pandemic
almost two years ago. But this week, reacting to the tidal
wave of Omicron infections gathering abroad, the Municipality of Mumbai
issues new guidelines, which seem to condemn the run. But no, to my
surprise, it is maintained, and on Saturday morning we go
pick up our race packages in Bandra, at a proper stadium. The route
seems very promising for Sunday, along parts of the coastline. I set
the alarm at 3:30am, to reach there by the start at 5:30.
But around 8:30pm in the evening, both of us start receiving automated
calls, messages and emails. Due to BMC orders, the event has finally
been cancelled, and we are asked to not go to the start line. In a way,
this doesn't surprise me at all, but why such a last minute notice?
Like in early childhood, for no clear reason, I feel particularly anguished
that evening, and the cancellation alleviates the pressure somewhat,
in spite of the dissappointement.
I sleep very poorly that night. I have woken up at 3:18 (like I would
have to go to the race), and completely unable to find sleep in spite of
my best efforts, get up at 4:30. Gulzar is up early too. I have resolved
to run a 1/2 Marathon no matter what, which she authorizes me to do. I make
a point of wearing the race t-shirt, choosing the Eastern Expressway where
I know runners will be many. But last night's mood has not completely
dissipated, and lacking sleep, I'm not sure how this will go.
Before Namaaz, I pull my curtains to discover a glorious bright full moon, of
very warm color, throning in the sky. I call Gulzar who's equally
fascinated at the sight. This restores my good spirits.
It is fresh outside. I have opted for a longer course along the
highway, starting in Ghatkopar all the way to the Airoli Junction. I
am carrying the Big Bottle belt (one Gatorade and one Water) and
a pouch of Kajur. I soon find that, in spite of the weariness,
I feel quite good, and my pace settles into a natural rhythm that I
carry without much strain. Along the highway, I search for those who
like me are wearing the Ageas Federal jersey, count 6 or 7
before giving up. I am strengthening in my mind the last learned verses
of Surah An'aam along the way, contemplating the hazy sunrise over the
mangroves to the East. At the JVLR intersection, a group on the road
seems to denote a serious accident.
The stream of morning walkers and runners thins out on the way
to Airoli where there are no dwellings, opening directly onto the
Mangroves. I continue in excellent form, wondering if I'll tire at all
today, and still debating how long to make this run (probably beyond
a 1/2 Marathon). I eventually continue all the way to the Airoli junction,
where a new sign on a side-road seems to lead to a Flamingo Observatory.
I have run too far to explore that today, but promise to bring back Gulzar
to finally show her the majestic birds. As if to underline this happy
thought, a lone flamingo flies overhead, crossing the freeway...
The way back still feels good. I have eaten Kajur once, and regularly
sip at water or Gatorade. No returning in a Rickshaw today, in fact,
I feel surprisingly good up the Hiranandani Hill, welcoming perhaps
the change of form and pace. I complete the run in relative comfort
on the familiar Lake Powai Promenade, then the slight downhill into
Nahar.
This has been a near perfect run. Clearly in great shape today,
this could have made for a wonderful race! ... The organizers allude
to rescheduling it, but who knows if the capricious pandemic will allow it ...
I am ready to continue running solo till Ramadhan.
The Problem with Orchard Avenue? (8.82 Miles) -- 12/25/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 12/22/21, 17 Jumadah al Awwal 1443 -- Tempo Run
Rambagh, to Orchard: 0:11:54 [1.14M - 1.83K]
Tempo run: JVLR - Heera Pana - Orchard - Central - Ridge - Orchard - JVLR.
Tempo Time: 0:22:11
Tempo Mileage: 2.57 Miles - 4.14 Km
Tempo Pace: 8'37"/mile - 5'21"/km
Back: 0:09:21 [1.02M - 1.64K]
Overall Time: 0:43:26
Overall Mileage: 4.73 Miles - 7.61 Km
Overall Pace: 9'10"/mile - 5'42"/km
Weather: 23C; Humidity 75%
Weight: 67.4 kg - 148.6 lbs
15th reading Surah Furqan till v 35
Again a little rushed, things have greatly picked up at work.
Decide for a moderate tempo run, the most time efficient speed training
option. I feel I am doing well but without pushing much. Temperatures
are almost cold.
But the numbers reveal an excellent pace, unexpectedly so. This again
calls in question this Orchard Avenue course, where I always seem to do
so much better than anywhere else! Could the Google Map measurement be wrong?
It's a pain, because I'd hate to discard this otherwise excellent
(and convenient) course based on this lingering doubt.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 12/24/21, 19 Jumadah al Awwal 1443 -- MIDC quasi 10K
Khairani rd - Saki Naka - Marol Naka - Airport Rd - Apna Dhaba -
Kondivita - MIDC - Masjid - Marol Maroshi - Military Rd -
Marwah - Saki Vihar - Chandivali - Mhada.
Time: 0:58:01
Mileage: 6.2 Miles - 9.98 Km
Pace: 9'21"/mile - 5'48"/km
Weather: 23C; Humidity 80%
Weight: 67.5 kg - 148.8 lbs
Gulzar: 65.4 kg
15th reading Surah Shua'ara
I decide for something different today, running along the old
commute routes towards 88 Pictures, almost a year after things came
to an end there. I don't quite pass the office itself, but do run
through MIDC, past the Masjid, etc. I feel great actually, in this
cool winter weather, but do run slightly out of breath in the last
part. Later, I realize why: I've been running a bit faster than usual.
This whole week has seen a formidable amount of energy towards
work.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 12/25/21, 20 Jumdah al Awwal 1443 -- 10K
Raambagh - JVLR small detour - Orchard: 0:13:21 [1.29M, 2.07K] [r.2'46"]
10K along Orchard Avenue ----
1st Split [1.89M - 3.04K]: 16'17" (8'37"/mile)
2nd Split [1.26M - 2.03K]: 10'49" (8'34"/mile)
3rd Split [1.89M - 3.04K]: 16'29" (8'43"/mile)
4th Split [1.26M - 2.03K]: 10'45" (8'31"/mile)
10K Time: 0:54:20
10K Mileage: 6.3 Miles - 10.14 Km
10K Pace: 8'37"/mile - 5'21"/km
Age Graded: 6.3 Miles in 0:45:50, ie. 7'16"/mile pace
[r.3'05"] Lake Homes - Chandivali: 0:12:54 [1.23M, 1.97K]
Total Time: 1:20:35 (Total Workout: 1:26:29)
Total Mileage: 8.82 Miles - 14.18 Km
Total Pace: 9'08"/mile - 5'40"/mile
Weather: 21C; Humidity 83%
Weight: 68 kg - 149.9 lbs
Gulzar: 65.2 kg
15th reading Surah Qasas till v 61
I have learned that my father has contracted Covid, although thankfully
it appears to be a mild case. My mother seems fine...
I wake up well, but later feel strangely dizzy, and relatively unmotivated
towards this run. As often, I nevertheless stick to the plan, a 10K on
nearby Orchard Avenue. I find a good pace, playing the habitual game of
push-pull, that is to make an effort while holding back, with great
vigilance towards relaxation, breathing and good form. I seem to manage
quite well, and will end up with my best time this year (but still
a little behind last year, and far from pre-covid levels).
Some doubt subsists on the exact measurement of this course, since
I seem to do better here than elsewhere. But I've checked it 200 times,
so I decide to put that to rest and retain these runs as legit (besides,
I have been improving on this same course).
On the way back, I visit the boudi near Lake Homes, a silly
incident happen: not having seen her at her usual place from a distance,
I spot her across the street at a flower shop, run to offer her
my 20 Rs, for which she joins her hands in gratitude. But as I turn around,
I see the boudi sitting in front of the Mandir after all, staring
at the scene! The other lady must have been a maid, who's now disappeared
into one of the luxury buildings, probably delighted
by my unexpected generosity! I luckily still have a bill left for the
boudi, "usko de diya?" she asks a little incredulous.
In my daily conversations with my mother, I had brought up the fact
that I wanted to read Marcel Proust. She had sent it to me some time ago,
and today, the package has arrived, actually faster than I imagined. I
have precisely finished reading Les Natchez by Chateaubriand last
night, so it reaches right on time. My mother's dedication on the book
moves me, and we immediately send her a picture.
Flamingoes of Mumbai, In the Mangroves, Into the Rising Sun (10.56 Miles) -- 01/01/22
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 12/26/21 -- In search of the Flamingoes
Weight: 68.1 kg - 150.1 lbs
Gulzar 65.5 kg
15th reading Surah Ankabut till v 30
On a recent long run, I have spotted a sign to a flamingo
sanctuary. We go explore today, on the Eastern Express Highway,
by the Airoli Junction.
Little country road, I park somewhere on the side, next to
a "dancing car", we walk from there. We engage into a dirt
trail to the left, a man tells us this isn't where the flamingoes
are, but Gulzar charmed by the peaceful landscape wants to continue
further, between marsh fields. A group of men in the fields, a man
tells us they are making salt. We continue further, now
isolated, crisp winter sunlight, till we reach a Jhopra, where
Gulzar finds a tree with fruits from her childhood. But
swarms of mosquitoes assault us there, and the trail vanishes,
by a boat moored on the marsh. We turn back, Gulzar is so happy
as she finds more of the plants from her childhood, that
she has started to sing.
We will come back for the flamingoes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 12/27/21, 22 Jumadah al Awwal 1443 -- 88 Pictures
Raheja Vihar (short) - Saki Vihar - Marwah - Military - Marol -
MIDC - 88 Pictures - Rd 13 - Rd 16 - Jamah Masjid - Marol - Military -
Makwana Rd - Marol CHS - Saki Naka - Khairani Rd.
Time: 1:08:08
Mileage: 7.06 Miles - 11.35 Km
Pace: 9'39"/mile - 6'00"/km
Weather: 25C; Humidity 72%
Weight: 67.7 kg - 149.2 lbs
Gulzar: 65.7 kg
15th reading Surah Ahzaab till v 35
A night of insufficient sleep and pesky mosquitoes.
I wake up at 4, get up at 4:30.
This starts as a tired run, in fresh temperature, but I still
let it go a little long, this time reaching the 88 Pictures building which
now has a sign on the street,
running the old roads which are relatively quiet, except for
Khairani rd and its usual mayhem.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 12/29/21, 24 Jumadah 1443 -- Hill Repeats
Chandivali - SM Shetty - Central - Base of Hill: 0:29:49
[2.81M, 4.53K] [r.3'51"]
Hiranandani Hill Repeats: 1.06 Km - 0.66 Miles
Interval 1: 6'25".91 [d.6'28"][r.0'55"] -- Pace: 9'45"/mile
Interval 2: 6'18".85 [d.6'23"][r.2'03"] -- Pace: 9'35"/mile
Interval 3: 6'19".93 [r.1'11"] -- Pace: 9'36"/mile
Intervals Time: 0:19:05
Intervals Mileage: 1.98 Miles - 3.18 Km
Intervals Pace: 9'39"/mile - 6'00"/km
Return, Main - Orchard - Lakehomes - Nahar: 0:19:24 [2.16M, 3.47K]
Total Time: 1:21:09 (Total Workout: 1:29:11)
Total Mileage: 8.27 Miles - 13.3 Km
Total Pace: 9'48"/mile - 6'06"/km
Weather: 24C; Humidity 72%
Weight: 67.9 kg - 149.7 lbs
Gulzar: 65.5 kg
15th reading Surah Fatir till v 15
Again started quite exhausted, a bad start, up at 4:30, feeling
so-so. It has been quite a roller-coaster this week due to work.
But as often, the faster pace shakes the cobwebs, and this turns into a
most wonderful session! This particular hill as often suits me well, and I
marvel at what makes certain courses auspicious, and others not,
without always a clear cause. Anyway, although not as miraculous as my
last session here, this ends up longer, and great nonetheless.
-- Flamingoes! --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 12/30/21 -- Flamingoes
Weight: 67.5 kg - 148.8 lbs
Gulzar: 65.5 kg
15th reading Surah Yaseen
We return to the Airoli Junction, this time straight into
the Flamingo Sanctuary, which is strangely well guarded (we have
to fill up a lengthy entry by military clad guards). A dirt
road takes us inside, reaching a Talaab, somewhat hidden among the
mangroves, which harbors hundreds (thousands???) of flamingoes! An
extraordinary sight!! A few photographers with large telephoto
lenses. Two local men have caught a very large
fish (8kg they say) whose name I forget, apparently
illegal. We then continue the trail which tapers
out into the deeper mangrove environment, by a large peaceful
river with colorful boats.
We are so happy with this incredible
find, Gulzar has started singing again, collecting armfuls of
grasses and leaves to eat, plants from her childhood,
and we marvel at the Creation.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 12/31/21, 26 Jumadah al Awwal 1443 -- Fatima Grounds
Shangarsh Nagar Shortcut - Khairani rd - Under Jagruti Nagar - LBS -
Navroji Ln - Camalane - Kirol Rd - Nathani Rd - Ghatkopar Gymkhana &
Fatima High School - DMart - Near Don Bosco Campus - Back same way.
Time: 1:01:12
Mileage: 6.54 Miles - 10.52 Km (3.27M - 5.26K) x 2
Pace: 9'21"/mile - 5'49"/km
Weather: 25C; humidity 72%
Weight: 67.4 kg - 148.6 kg
Gulzar: 65.4 kg
15th reading Surah Saffat
I was going to run a classic Hiranandani course, but on a
unexpected inspiration, veer through the slum of Shangarsh Nagar,
out towards Ghatkopar, where heading West I discover a totally
new area. Meandering along the railway, I find a large sports
complex (Ghatkopar Gymkhana) and school (Fatima School), followed
by a large quiet road where I find a few people running as well.
This has turned out great, an continues the exploration theme
of this holiday week.
And just after this, we return to the Flamingoes, this time
armed with binoculars that we've bought yesterday at Decathlon.
Sofia spots an amazingly colorful small bird perched on a tree,
then Gulzar finds a snake in the grass, and I ... nothing ...
other than the thousand of flamingoes, which this time we
study with the binoculars, captivated. Gulzar offers to eat and
drink to a young couple who has sat besides us, contemplating
the lake. We sit a while watching the bird activity, their cautious
steps wading in the water, seemingly endlessly eating, brief
fights (or nuptial parades?). Sometimes a whole flock takes
off after running a few steps on the water, then keeping their legs
straight in a perfect line, fly over our heads silently, and some
land in the water in a similar short run. The sun is high when
we depart, having dissipated the morning freshness, and we find
saturated bougainvillias along the trail.
Funnily, we repeat yesterday quite litterally, returning
also to the mall, eating ice-cream ...
-- In the mangroves --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 01/01/2022, 27 Jumadah al Awwal 1443 --
Nahar - Chandivali - Saki Vihar - Marwah - Military - Marol
Maroshi - Aarey - Lakshmi Rd Loop - Aarey Hill - Lake Powai - Raambagh.
Time: 1:45:14
Mileage: 10.56 Miles - 16.99 Km
Pace: 9'57"/mile - 6'11"/km
Weather: 26C; Humidity: 67%
Weight: 67.8 kg - 149.5 lbs
Gulzar: 65.7 kg
15th reading Surah Sad
I've never cared much about New Year. Tonight, I was sleeping
soundly when a loud noise jolts me awake. An explosion I think, I must
see the news tomorrow... I then realize these are fireworks, of course,
2022 has come. "Happy New Year" says Ruksanna, waking up too.
I first thought I would extend yesterday's exploratory run further,
but for some reason, a different course imposes itself at dawn: Aarey.
Slightly apprehensive of the slum at the base of the hill so early
in the morning, I choose the more circuitous route through Marwah.
A couple dogs nearly attack me on Saki Vihar, held in check, to which
a tea stall vendor applauds. But I don't feel so good this morning,
perhaps it has been too much running on this holiday week, and the
first part of the run feels unusually laborious.
This completely reverses once I reach beautiful Lakshmi road!
In nature, the run becomes wonderfully pleasant and airy,
quiet and contemplative. I have eaten quite a few Kajurs, which
of course helps. I turn after the farms on the dirt trail,
discovering the sun rising draped in vapors and well framed by thin trees,
lighting large ribs in the sky formed by clouds. The trail leads me
straight into this majestic sunrise.
Another dog chases me in the field, is it the New Year celebrations
that have excited them? I return through Aarey hill this time, with no
incident, still feeling incredibly airy, and back home. Gulzar has
put on her jewelry, beautiful, scintillating...
This caps another week of 6+ hours running, and a year of 1080 Miles
(1740 Km),
a little lower than usual, due to Covid and injury. Still, other than
a still lackluster pace, I have recovered well, and the future feels
more optimistic.