Hollywood (10.2 Miles) -- 06/16/15
Griffith Park -
Parking to top: 0:34:08
Down - up and over tank - rough trail - up to Hollywood Sign: 0:30:01
Back: 0:37:51
Time: 1:42:01
Mileage: 10.2 Miles
I still don't have proper socks, but I set for a good run in Griffith Park,
a tradition in LA. I imagine this is my last long'ish run before the
end of Ramadan, which starts in two days.
I park at my usual parking lot, a little bit up the mountain, and
start slowly on the very steep stretch. As I start emerging into the
open, I am greeted by three coyotes, ahead of me on the trail. As a reflex,
I call out the Indian "HOY!" as if they were stray dogs, and even
with amusement seize a couple rocks, which of course won't mean anything
to these animals. But they escort me peacefully for some time up the
slope, barely heedindg me, before disappearing into the brush.
Past that time, I will only see cute little rabbits, running on the side.
This trail brings me memories of Nazia. For some reason, I remember,
on one earlier trip when Ruksanna and I were still farely new, entertaining
this fantasy that Nazia would be running at my side up the mountain. The
imaginary girl had accompanied me the whole way. It is now possible that
we will be re-united. Could this ever become true in some form?
I make it to the top, stop briefly for the views. The trail has
been nearly deserted so far, but here is a small concentration of
people. It's sunny and crisp up here,
but the valley is blanketed by thick fog, completely concealing the
sprawling city and its freeways, further isolating the mountain.
The air is fresh and pleasant, and
setting my eyes on the distant Hollywood sign, I set it as my next target.
I descend partially then climb back up a road that stops at a tank.
I fortunately find a trail there that points in the right direction,
following hilly ridges. The trail is quite rough, unkempt, with brief
steep rocky sections as it roller-coasters up and down the bumps,
until it finally plunges to the tiny road that leads to the sign.
It feels quite remote here, and the road climbs just above the sign,
allowing a view from the back with the valley as a backdrop, today
covered in clouds, concealing even the downtown towers in the distance.
The return is comfortable, and of course much faster than the
ascent. I have spotted a potential drinking point which luckily yields
water.
Between the climate, a little colder and much drier than in Bangalore,
and the thrill of a less familiar place, I have not felt the duration
of the run at all, finishing in comfort.
-- To the back of the Hollywood Sign --
2nd day Roza (12.7 Miles) -- 06/19/15
Friday 06/19/15 -- 2nd Day Roza
Griffith Park -
From the Parking at the bottom - Horse trail
then road to "junction": 0:46:26
To Hollywood sign: 0:27:51
Back: 0:52:54
Time: 2:07:12
Estimated pace: 10'00" / mile
Mileage: 12.7 Miles
This is the second day of fast for Ramadhan.
In spite of this, in a sudden inspiration, I embark on this run.
In fact, after having woken up at 3:30 to eat and pray Yaseen, I feel
such urge to get out that I for once forego stretching.
I have decided to change my departing place this time, parking
at the very base of the mountain, hoping to explore a new area. I
start off on Horse Trails, with a few steep sections. Unlike the last
run, it is clear today, as I slowly ascend escaping from the freeways,
whose constant hum will be heard for some time. I'm hoping to find
a way that will keep me to the right on the mountain, to avoid landing
in familiar places. The trail eventually crosses the road, traverses
a deforested section, then joins a paved road that meanders up the
forested hill. It is completely deserted on this side of the mountain,
I have not seen a living soul. The rising sun projects strong shadows
on the asphalt, almost stronger than the tree themselves. By now,
the noises of the trafic have disappeared and I feel delighfully alone.
The road ascends gradually to eventually reach the junction
where I was on my last run. It's been about 45 minutes already,
so I should really be turning back. I have never run this long during
Roza, and have no idea how I will handle it later in the day, especially
thirst. But I feel so good that I decide to prolong once again to
the Hollywood sign.
The road is less wild at first, crossing occasional hikers or
runners. But the little steep road up the Hollywood Mountain is
again deserted, feeling strangely wild and remote, reminding me of
my days on the bicycle. I don't stop long at the view, although
today, the sunny sky offers a clear view of downtown and the ocean
beyond.
I continue to feel extraordinary! What is it in such runs that
gives such formidable energy? I am not seeing the time go by, not feeling much
fatigue at all. The abundant morning food doesn't way me down.
My only fear is my ability to handle the thirst throughout the day,
as my throat is starting to feel parched. By now, sections of the
road are exposed to the dry sun, and I'm relieved to plunge back
into the woods. My secretive road from the morning sees now occasional
cyclists. From the Hollywood sign onwards, during the entire
descent, I have embarked on a full revision of all the Surahs,
with the exception of Yaseen, which I've already recited in Namaaz.
I am careful though to not accentuate the guttural sounds, to not
further parch my throat. In the forest, I am briefly distracted
by a male deer, jumping forcefully in the brush.
Near the bottom, I abridge the return slightly by staying
on the paved road rather than the horse trails. Soon, I see my
car waiting. I look at my watch: It has been over two hours!
I have amazingly not felt the time go by,
feeling great, so fresh. I wonder how I'll handle the thirst
until 8:30 pm tonight, by which time I'll be on the plane, but
am determined to take on the challenge.
I leave that evening, a day early, to be sooner at Ruksanna's side
through these tough moments. The thirst has not left me, turning
at times in a painful yet stable burning sensation, relentless, but hunger,
which comes and goes,
has not been as much of a problem. If anything, I have felt amazingly
clear and energized throughout the day.
On my way to Bangalore...
-- On the way up --
9th day Roza (4 Miles) -- 06/26/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 06/23/15 -- 6th day Roza
Vartur Kodi - W. Trail - Dunmore Short - Sai Baba - ITPL
Mileage: 4 Miles - 6.4 Km (Google Maps)
Time: 0:37:33
Pace: 9'23" / mile
Wght: 73 kg / 161 lbs
Feel unbelievably good! Perfect breath, and my body moves swiftly through
the motion, at no effort!
But how different is the climate here. In spite of today's overcast windy
weather, I feel like I sweat profusely more than during LA's two hour run!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 06/24/15 -- 7th day Roza
Same as yesterday
Mileage: 4 Miles - 6.4 Km (Google Maps)
Time: 0:38:30
Pace: 9'37" / mile
Wght: 73 kg / 161 lbs
Same as yesterday, but slower pace. I still can't believe how much sweat running in this climate generates, even on a cool windy day! How different from California.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 06/25/15 -- 8th day Roza
Same route again
Mileage: 4 Miles - 6.4 Km (Google Maps)
Time: 0:37:57
Pace: 9'29" / mile
Wght: 73 kg / 161 lbs
After Namaaz with Ruksanna, we practiced again her Nourani Qaida.
Run is the same. Even though it feels a little daunting, it actually
wakes me up and energizes me, but I am surprised (and bothered) by
the amount of sweat. I still find this Roza more challenging than last
year, often tired throughout the day, perhaps the combo of jet lag with
fasting which doesn't allow to find back ones rhythm.
Started learning Surah Ghashiah.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 06/26/15 -- 9th day Roza
Same route.
Mileage: 4 Miles - 6.4 Km (Google Maps)
Time: 0:38:50
Pace: 9'42" / mile
Wght: 73 kg / 161 lbs
I wake up poorly this morning. We went for Iftaar to our neighbour's house
where I was pushed to eat way more than I wanted. It doesn't look like a
good day ahead, as I feel tired and unmotivated. In fact, I'm disappointed
in my Ramadan so far, I don't feel the wonder of last year, the same clarity
of spirit, and paradoxically my Namaaz isn't fulfilling.
Ruksanna and I perform Fajr ki Namaaz just the same, shorter than I normally
would, and I take this occasion to admit this spleen and regroup. I pray
to essentially regain the strength to pray.
Has that changed the situation? I feel my focus coming back,
and the run feels
much more energized and clear. Instead of feeling heavy and despondent,
I sense my mind clearing up, and at a slower pace, much more in control
try to better control my temperature and sweat, riding the wind wherever
possible to stay cool. It ends up being a better day today.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
15th day Roza (6.8 Miles) -- 07/02/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 06/30/15 -- 13th day Roza
Oval Fountain - Hagadur - Imadihalli - Naugondanahalli - Midway Temple -
Right at Khabarstan - Hope Farm - Sheraton - ELIM - Worker's trail -
Lake Trail - Pattandur Agrahara
Mileage: 6.2 Miles - 10 km (Google Maps)
Time: 1:03:53
Pace: 10'18" / mile
Wght: 73.3 kg / 161.6 lbs
A lousy wake-up. My return from the US has not been very good. The Roza
this year proves difficult and unpleasant, not able to re-capture last
year's magic and energy. Not only does it feel physically draining, but
worst of all leaves me entirely un-motivated. It's all the more frustrating
that our situation should lead to some heightened state of fervor.
Yesterday, Ruksanna herself broke the fast, as she was not feeling well.
This morning, having mishandled my nutrition, I wake-up bloated, and the
last thing I want is another meal, especially the fat mutton feet from last
night!! I force myself to eat nevertheless, but am overcome by one of
those dreadful morning headaches, which normally don't dissipate until
they become intolerable. Not looking good...
Dispirited, after having ingested Advid *and* Tylenol, I lay on the bed
for some time, resolving to at least shave that annoying beard, and perhaps
break fast later today.
But Ruksanna has come by me, and our conversation flows well, we laugh happy.
The fog in my head has started to lift, and in a complete reversal,
will leave my mind wonderfully clear, as if this state of quasi-surrender
was needed to bounce back. We finally get up for Namaaz around 6.
She stays by me during stretching, deep in thought, occasionally sharing.
I have decided to abandon Surah Ghashiya after five verses, preferring
to learn the longer and more prestigious Surah Waqiyah, but Ruksanna
won't let me study during stretching, so I content myself with only
the first verse.
I set up for the run around 7. The morning air, and my unexpectedly good
disposition, invite me to run longer than expected, and step by step I
lengthen the road, at an extremely slow pace, designed to prevent overheating
and digestive pains, by taking deep relaxed breaths (even so, my stomach
bothers me, barely under control). The run is pleasant and I feel rejuvenated.
Along the Lake Trail (which I haven't visited in ages), I run into some old
acquaintances, and see that the "lake community" has been dismantled again.
I wonder if I've finally recaptured the magic of the Ramadhan today, a sort
of turning point after last week's struggles.
I won't shave my beard after all.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 07/01/15 -- 14th day Roza
Same route as yesterday.
Mileage: 6.2 Miles - 10 km (Google Maps)
Time: 1:05:41
Pace: 10'35" / mile (even slower than yesterday!)
Wght: 72.7 kg / 160.3 lbs
Very similar to yesterday. It looks like I have indeed turned a corner, and
approach the Roza with renewed commitment.
Last night, we went to see Inside Out. We had to khol roza inside the theater,
luckily, they let us in with a bag full of food and drinks. Perhaps because
of Chai and Coke, I had very poor sleep, seemingly waking up every hour, almost
feverish, wide awake. But in the morning, I feel relatively energized. Like
yesterday, I'll try to control at a snail pace
temperature and digestive pains as best I can
during the run, and will be left with a tenacious thirst,
difficult to bear.
Ruksanna has interrupted Roza today, feeling weak. But more importantly,
she is brewing big decisions, her instinctual courage taking over.
Resolution seems near.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 07/02/15 -- 15th day Roza
Kodi - PM Hamlet - Borewell rd. - Nellurahalli - Accenture - EPIP -
Windmills - Basavananagar - Hoodi - Along the tracks - along Shantinikethan.
Mileage: 6.8 Miles - 11 km (Google Maps)
Time: 1:12:14
Pace: 10'37" / mile
Wght: 71.8 kg / 158.3 lbs
Ha, I finally enjoyed a good night sleep, barely waking up until the alarm
at 3:45. Yesterday evening, after a relatively good day, I sort of
succumbed to exhaustion, barely able to bring myself to eat, or stay awake.
This morning feels much better.
Ruksanna is unfit to pray namaaz, but sits besides me in Zikr.
I haven't gone the PM Hamlet route in a little time and find it changed.
After having removed the house at the corner, it's now the whole little
road that is under construction, pretty severely disheveled, and closed to
vehicles. What's going to happen to this place???
Things are good through the run, the traffic not excessive. But it's a
little hotter than I would like. For once, I get stopped at the Hoodi Railway
Crossing by a passenger train, that zooms by with small grapes of people sitting
at its doorsteps.
But the segment along the railway proves sun-baked and dusty.
To make matters worse, I am now running with a slight tail wind,
perfectly dosed to suppress the slightest
breeze, as if the air was traveling exactly at my pace. I sweat profusely,
made to slow down even more. The slight ascent along Shantiniketan feels a little
better, shaded and with a breath of air, barely enough to recover slightly.
Still, this run leaves me with a violent thirst, which will burn throughout
the day. How many times do I imagine how the first drink will feel at Iftaar...
But I do not yield.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 07/06/15 -- 16th day Roza
Kodi - Siddapura - Nellurahalli - Accenture - Sai Baba - ITPL
Mileage: 4.5 Miles - 7.2 Km (Google Maps)
Time: 0:44:55
Pace: 9'58" / mile
Wght: 71.4 kg / 157.4 lbs
Ruksanna slept this morning, but I nevertheless kept our same routine
in her absence, including watching Urdu TV. Her absence allows me to
Padh all of Sura Yaseen again, but somehow, I'm still distracted by her
presence in the next room, as if she was listening or about to wake up.
Every day is a renewed effort.
Yesterday's thirst turned out too extreme. I fear it today,
especially since it has started seizing my throat soon after starting
the Roza, before even running. I therefore decide to change my plan,
(which was to run an hour a day), and shorten the run a bit.
And change the route as well. I run through the center of Nellurahalli
instead of the Dunmore shortcut. Sure enough, near the tent community,
I run into Akhbar's elder brother, who's surprised to see me running.
"- Roza???", he asks with a dubious gesture of the hand. "Roza
houn, roza houn..., I assure him, but I doubt that he believes me.
Where do I go for Namaaz, he asks me, and this time, I half-lie, pretending
to attend the Whitefield Masjid. He too, and he definitely plans to be there
today (Jumah), so perhaps we'll meet...
I am bothered by an aggressive pack of dogs by the Whitefield Police
Station. I face them with assurance, and notice once again the value
of anger, powerful enough to override fear. I don't touch the dogs or
anything, but I feel ready to thrash them. As before, I wonder if this
jolt of courage would apply if confronting a human being? With most threats
now gone, will that ever be put to the test?
The run ends peacefully. It's as if I'm exploring how slowly I can
possibly run without breaking down to an actual walk! But this will do
for the month of Ramadhan. I have still met my weekly goal of four hours
(taking the weekend off), and my weight has sharply dropped, even though
I feel fat and bloated, as if all the weight had assembled in the stomach.
Still, my handling of nutrition is better, eating more moderate meals,
and having suppressed that dreadful serving of cereal in the middle of
the night, which used to leave me with zero apetite for Seheri.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
20th day Roza (7.4 Miles) -- 07/07/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 07/07/15 -- 20th day Roza
Kodi - Main Rd - Beml Layout - Kundalahalli - Brookefield - to
Basavananagar - Around Seetharamapalya Lake (new) - to Windmills
(in reverse) - Sai Baba - ITPL
Mileage: 7.4 Miles - 11.8 km (Google Maps)
Time: 1:12:47
Pace: 9'50" / mile
Wght: 71.8 kg / 158.3 lbs
Yesterday's breakdown has left me with horrible frustration - and new
questions. Having woken up too early, I went back to sleep for an hour,
then decided not to run. Not able to drink coffee, and probably generally
exhausted, I was assaulted by irresistible sleep attacks, the most
unbearable of which came in during a seemingly unending meeting towards
the end of the day. No matter how I fought back, I could not control
my eyes from blurring, my head from falling back, and this, in plain view!
I return home thoroughly dejected, very frustrated with myself. To make
matters worse, Ruksanna keeps encouraging me to break the Roza for
a few days. I still adamantly refuse.
But this morning, Ruksanna has woken up with me, like she used to
in the first days of the Roza. She says she wouldn't see me enough
otherwise, so has decided to get up this early. After Namaaz, we
somehow embark on recalling again her life story, the inherent drama
alive with new details. I will never be the same.
I was going to run short, but once outside I immediately realize
that I feel great! The air is fresh, and my breathing is unexpectedly
perfect. I therefore lengthen the run with great ease, braving even
the trafic, and manage a slight innovation, running the shortcut
through Basavananagar/Windmills in reverse. Along the way, a moderate
suprise: The lake behind Windmills (Seetharamapalya Lake according
to Google) has been newly furbished with a walking path and play area.
Curious, I run around this new recreation area, along with a few other
morning runners and walkers. No quite the slum I used to know here.
Like the other day, running west yields no wind, but this route is more
forgiving, and I feel invincible today. I'll be thirsty throughout the
day, but not as intolerable as before. Besides, thirst keeps me alert
and wide awake!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 07/08/15 -- 21st day Roza
Kodi - Siddapura - Nellurhalli - Accenture - EPIP - Windmills -
BasavanaNagar - Hoodi - Main road to ITPL.
Mileage: 6.5 Miles - 10.4 km (Google Maps)
Time: 1:05:32
Pace: 10'04" / mile
Wght: 71.8 kg / 158.3 lbs
Yesterday was a particularly good day. I felt energized throughout, and
not particularly impaired by thirst or hunger - in spite of the morning
run.
This morning, I wake feeling insufficiently rested again. But after
a particularly good rendition of Surah Yaseen (Ruksanna is fast asleep),
the run is pretty good and wakes me up. It's earlier (for a 7am mtg)
and I feel I've rushed a little out the door, leaving too soon during
digestion, but I manage to keep things under control.
I will however feel burning thirst throughout the day, barely tolerable.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 07/09/15 -- 22nd day Roza
Oval Fountain - Hagadur - Imadihalli - Naugondanahalli - Chansandra -
Hope Farm - ECC - Lake Trail - Pattandur Agrahara.
Mileage: 6.4 Miles - 10.4 Km (Google Maps)
Time: 1:04:10
Pace: 10'01" / mile
Wght: 71.8 kg / 158.3 lbs
This is another mitigated wake-up. Yesterday evening, I ate some samosa
from Sivajinagar for Iftaar, which so halted my apetite that I was nearly
unable to eat dinner, and plunged in an deep uncomfortable sleep. What's
more, a small dispute with Ruksanna, as usual about Drivers (what is it
with her that she hates these drivers so much!), has left me in a bad
mood. I still feel tired in the morning, and a little discouraged.
But I force myself to eat nonetheless, and eventually muster one of my
best full Yaseen Namaaz. I had decided to rush to meet silly running
goals, but eventually reverse that, deciding that the running will fit
around Namaaz. I spend a long time in Yaseen. Generally, I like to keep
my mind on Qur'anic matters as long as possible in the morning, before
it gets polluted so to speak by the affairs of the Duniya.
And the run works out too. At the end of the day, I still meet my "at least
an hour" goal, and manage in time for a 7:30 meeting.
Started at my slow careful roza pace, I gradually
feel the wellness of the run penetrating body and mind, about 30 minutes
into it, like a cleansing purifying wave.
As usual, thirst will be a dire problem. I don't know if the accumulation
of such thirst days may produce an adverse effect or not.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 07/10/15 -- 23rd day Roza
Hagadur - Imadihalli - Naugondanahalli - Chansandra - Hope Farm -
Sheraton - Loyal Super Market - Main road to ITPL
Mileage: 5.7 Miles - 9.2 Km (Google Maps)
Time: 0:57:51
Pace: 10'08" / mile
Wght: 71 kg / 156.5 lbs
Feel quite good actually, in spite of having to rush a bit.
I have a 6:30am meeting (!), so my normal morning proceedings
have to be abbreviated.
In Namaaz, I trade Yaseen for Burooj/Tariq/A'ala/Balad, but mostly
gain time by shortening stretching. I'm out the door by 5:20, a little
worried about running so soon after eating, but it turns out perfectly
fine, at a slow pace. It's been a long time that I haven't started at
night, with first daylight on the way to Naugondanahalli. I thought
I would cut the run short due to limited time, but I almost
reach my hour target, fulfilling the soft goal of increasing my weekly
mileage from last week. As usual, thirst is an issue, but feel good
today in all other ways.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
28th day Roza (4 Miles) -- 07/15/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 07/13/15 -- 26th day Roza
Oval Fountain - Hagadur - Whitefield Outer Circle - Dodsworth Enclave -
Borewell Rd - Nellurahalli - Accenture - Sai Baba - ITPL
Mileage: 4.6 Miles - 7.35 Km (Google Maps)
Time: 0:45:33
Pace: 9'54" / mile
Wght: 71.4 kg / 157.4 lbs
Pfff, another difficult start to the day! I'll say it again, this year's
Roza proves much more challenging than last year's.
I wake up tired. Ruksanna has woken up too, initially to keep Roza,
but ultimately just to keep me company. After Namaaz, we lay down for some
time, but unable to sleep (which probably wouldn't have been wise, if
experience is a guide).
I set off reluctantly on the run. This morning's chicken was too spicy
for Seheri, and digestion burns my stomach, causing me to grimace and
grit my teeth throughout the run. But amazingly,
the run once again seems to fix things a bit, as the body wakes and
slowly comes under control.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 07/14/15 -- 27th day Roza
Same route as yesterday.
Mileage: 4.6 Miles - 7.35 Km (Google Maps)
Time: 0:44:59
Pace: 9'46" / mile
Wght: 71.4 kg / 157.4 lbs
In the normal alternance between exhaustion and elation (I'm starting
to get a hang of this rhythm), I feel good today, in spite of little
sleep. A Namaaz exceptional at times, although much progress remains
to be done. Ruksanna's father, home these days with a leg injury, had
woken up today, and I prepared him Chai during Seheri. Ruksanna is fast
asleep, but I wake her up gently as I leave, around 6am.
I have time this morning, but wisely choose to "only" repeat yesterday's
route, with no lengthening.
Steady progress on Surah Waqi'ah.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 07/15/15 -- 28th day Roza
Mileage: 4 Miles - 6.4 Km (Google Maps)
Time: 0:41:10
Pace: 10'17" / mile
Wght: 72.1 kg / 159 lbs
As predicted, another day of utter exhaustion. Following Laylatoul Qadr,
I haven't slept much, and feel that I've grossly mis-handled my nutrition,
completely disgusted of eating cheese omelet every morning (why did I
make it then??!!) A very long Namaaz this morning, trying to complete
last night, which felt imperfect.
The run is unpleasant. Heavy stomach.
But this will be the last Roza run.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PatalamaLevet, Kadugodi, Dinnur (8.45 Miles) -- 07/22/15
Hagadur - Hanuman Statue - Whitefield / Imadihalli Rd - Imadihalli -
Chansandra - Patalamalevet - Along the tracks to Whitefield Station -
Hope Farm - Main road towards Kadugodi - Dinnur - ITPL Main Rd.
Mileage: 8.45 Miles / 13.6 Km (Google Maps)
Time: 1:18:34
Pace: 9'17" / mile
Wght: 72.2 kg / 159.2 lbs
A completely improvised route, following last minute inspiration!
I wake up at 4:30, with more time on my hands, spend better time in the
morning, take a full 40 minutes to get through Yaseen Namaaz.
I start off a little later than expected around 6:30, initially thinking
I'll run short, but I quickly feel good out there, focusing on comfort
rather than pace. The weather is pleasant following recent storms.
As it turns out, I'm full of new ideas today, for one of my last runs
from Ozone. I first take the shortcut by the Giant Hanuman Statue to
Imadihalli road, which I run in reverse towards Chansandra. Long line
at the milk distribution, and the usual barking dog on this segment.
But inspired by this innovation, in Chansandra, I decide to go straight
through Patalamalevet, for the second time since I've re-opened this
area. At first, I'm more distracted by several aggressive packs of
dogs than by the prospect of meeting someone, in fact, I pass a violent
dog fight which seems to alert all the dogs along the road, but luckily,
concerned amongts themselves, they don't pay much heed to me. I pass
Ugabarimary's former shack to the right, the small plot now completely
unkempt, the small block overcome by vegetation (surprising this isn't
being built up, just like everything else). No familiar faces this time
again, as I approach the rail crossing.
There, I turn left, to join the road that goes back to Hope Farm. At
the signal is where I make my biggest decision of the day. Following
an old idea, I turn right on the main road to Kadugodi, headed straight
for the slum. Not much going on here actually, and soon, I turn left
into the road to Dinnur, passing the Governement School where I sometimes
would accompany the slum children. The fields after the village have been
miraculously preserved (here too, surprising that so much open space
has resisted construction). I remember the many times I would meet
Ruksanna on this small stretch of road.
And finally, I loop back to the main road, after this mini-adventure,
where I'm bothered by the morning traffic that I tie the scarf around
my face.
In spite of the various aches and pains that have plagued me since
the end of Ramadhan, I have felt great today, probably because I've
been focused on a comfortable run rather than pace, and the enthusiasm
of a new run (or at least highly emotional places I hadn't visited in
a very long time).
I continue steady progress learning Surah Waqiyah.
Last Ozone Run (10 Miles) -- 07/23/15
--------
Chansandra Night Route to ITPL (5:40am): Hagadur - Imadihalli -
Chansandra - Hope Farm - Sheraton - ECC - Pattandur: 1:01:14
Mileage: 6.4 Miles - 10.2 Km
Pace: 9'34" / mile
--------
Back via Pattandur - Nellurahalli - W. Trail - Kodi: 0:30:20
Mileage: 3.4 Miles - 5.4 km
Pace: 8'55" / mile
--------
Total time: 1:31:35
Mileage: 9.8 Miles
Pace: 9'20" / mile
Wght: 72.2 kg / 159.2 lbs
This will be my last run from Ozone. The movers are coming today,
but having an early morning meeting, I run to and from work.
Having woken up at 4am, I start at the crack of dawn around 5:40,
on the familiar Imadihalli road, and decide to run the "classic"
Chansandra Night Route, probably the best route I've opened from
Ozone. It's all peaceful out there, nothing special to report. It's
silly, but Nature Valley bars have disappeared from all stores
since a few weeks, and I struggle to find a suitable pre-run breakfast
alternative (my regimen had been that + bananas). Whatever else I try
leaves me rather dizzy through the run...
But in Pattandur Agrahara, I am once again bothered by a particularly
aggressive dog, who appeared only a few months back (how many times
had I run here unimpeded). I am helped by a fat man in Lounghi, but
this dog doesn't back down the way others do, although luckily still
keeps a small distance. I gesture with a rock to no effect at all.
This is a pain in the ass, as I'm now hesitant to venture here too
early in the morning, even though this would be the ideal way once
I move into Citilights. We'll see...
I return home immediately once the meeting is over. Later that day,
we move into Citilights, Ruksanna insisting that we sleep there on
Thursday night before Jumah ka Din, even though our Samaan will only
come tomorrow. We feel very happy sleeping on the floor of the empty
appartment, it actually won't feel as good once all our stuff comes
in the next day!
First Citilights Runs (9.5 Miles) -- 07/31/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 07/30/15 --
Citilights - Outer Circle - Dodsworth Enclave - Borewell rd - Nellurahalli -
Accenture - EPIP - Windmills - Basavananagar - Hoodi: 0:39:39
Kodigehalli Loop: 0:35:02
Mileage: 8 Miles - 12.9 Km
Time: 1:14:42
Pace: 9'20" / mile
Wght: 72.1 kg / 159 lbs
I am slowly feeling better. Today is another improvised run, completely
unplanned.
I woke up around 5, and Ruksanna woke up early too, during Namaaz. We
spend good time together, leaving me no time to stretch. So I set out
around 7am thinking I'll run the shortest road through Pattandur (which
I haven't tried yet, and probably takes no more than 10 minutes), but
for whatever reason, as soon as I'm out, in the early morning soft sunshine,
I realize that I could be feeling great, probably ripe for a longer run.
So I head out towards Hoodi, for the first time from Citilights. As usual,
the first part through the Circle is pleasant and quiet, a few runners
converging towards the circle, mixed with labourers, luckily very little
traffic. I indeed feel great, at a slower pace than the previous day,
and in spite of the lack of stretching, feel quite loose. Reaching
Hoodi takes about 10 minutes less that it would have from Ozone, and
from there, I comfortably complete the Kodigehalli loop, all the
while reciting Surah Waqi'ah, Burooj, Tariq and A'ala.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 07/31/15 --
Citilights - Inner Circle - Borewell rd - Nellurahalli - Accenture -
EPIP (long) - Petrol Pump - Basavanagar - Around the Lake - Hoodi: 0:54:44
Kodigehalli Loop: 0:34:17
Mileage: 9.55 Miles - 15.4 Km
Time: 1:29:01
Pace: 9'19" / mile
Wght: 72.5 kg / 159.8 lbs
In spite of a (too) early wake-up at 4am, I don't leave before 6:30, having
taken the time to properly recite Surah Yaseen, study the Qur'an, and unlike
yesterday, fully stretch. And lastly, wake-up Ruksanna.
I am feeling tired by this early hour, but this is another one of those
runs where the movement wake me up gently, as if dissipating the fog,
and by the time I reach Hoodi, almost an hour into the run, I feel quite good.
In Nellurahalli, I am called by a man from the other side of the road,
and like in the old days, decide to stop to shake his hand. Even at this
hour, the man strongly smells of alcohol, and after a couple questions,
doesn't seem like he's going to let go of my hand. I gently wrestle myself
free of his grasp, trying my limited Kannada on him, "Kelsi hog beku",
I need to go to work, I think. The little incident has attracted
a woman beggar who extending both her hands deploys her saree as if to
receive money.
I continue to make progress "two-by-two" on Surah Waqi'ah.
-- Progress so far on Surah Waqi'ah --
The redefinition of Chhota Rasta (1.35 Miles) -- 08/04/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 08/04/15 -- Chhota Rasta
Home Gym: 0:11:30
Run: Citilights - ECC - Lake Trail - Pattandur - ITPL
Mileage: 1.35 Miles - 2.2 Km
Time: 0:12:00
Pace: 8'53" / mile
Wght: 72.3 kg / 159.4 lbs
Ruksanna woke up and so I stay a nice time with her rather than rushing
out the door to run. So I take this opportunity to try the new "chhota
rasta", the shortest possible route, and obviously, it's much shorter
than from Ozone! I take the Lake trail, thus avoiding the bad dog in
Pattandur, although it would be smarter to confront him regularly in
the hope of making acquaintance.
I have not been eating well lately, so I expect my weight to shoot back
up at some point, with the usual "slingshot effect". As often, dinner
is where I crave for food, and these days, don't seem to be able to go
to bed without some form of sweets. I wonder too if this mini-compulsion
could be fueled by some sort of Ramadhan aftermath.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 08/05/15 --
Citilights - Outer Circle - Dodsworth - Borewell - Nellurahalli - Pattandur
Mileage: 2.7 Miles - 4.35 Km
Time: 0:22:40
Pace: 8'23" / mile
Running a little late, so take this relatively short route at a fast(er) pace. If this is true, it's actually better than I did at the circle last Sunday.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 08/06/15 -- Chhota Rasta (2)
Citilights - ECC - Loyal Supermarket - Main Road to IPTL
Mileage: 1.85 Miles - 3 Km
Time: 0:17:09
Pace: 9'16" / mile
Wght: 72.3 kg / 159.4 lbs
I have a 6:30am meeting. I could have run more than this, but decided
last minute to not rush and try this variation on Chhota Rasta. It
works out well, although the main road, even as such an early hour,
feels dusty and polluted. Ruksanna hasn't slept all night, but I feel
good, clear and alert, in spite of a 4:30 wake-up (at which point she
finally went to bed).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AyappaNagar / Kodigehalli (9.65 Miles) -- 08/10/15
Citilights - Outer Circle - Dodsworth - Borewell rd - Nellurahalli -
Accenture - Epip long - Petrol Pump - Basavananagar - Hoodi - Rail
Crossing: 0:50:58
Right of the fly-over - AyappaNagar - Kodigehalli rd - Along the
tracks - Along Shantinikethan - ITPL: 0:42:08
Mileage: 9.65 Miles / 15.5 Km
Time: 1:33:07
Pace: 9'38" / mile
Wght: 72.8 kg / 160.5 lbs
Have run very little last week, and none over the weekend, so this is like a catch-up run. But I don't leave that early, so trafic is a problem. Temperature is cool after heavy rain. I wear the kerchief from EPIP onwards, but as it becomes nearly impossible to breathe through the cloth, perhaps because it has become completely saturated with sweat, I'm forced to take it off in AyappaNagar, in spite of the trafic there. I struggle somewhat on the Kodigehalli loop, but still hang on. All in all a good run. Mild chafing on the breast, an unpleasant predicament that seems to occur randomly during runs, without a clear cause.
Redefinition of the Chansandra Route (7.9 Miles) -- 08/12/15
Inner Circle - Whitefield - Imadihalli - Chansandra: 0:28:01
Main Rd - Rail Track Detour - Hope Farm - Loyal Market -
Dog Alley - ITPL: 0:43:10
Mileage: 7.9 Miles - 12.7 Km
Time: 1:11:12
Pace: 9'00" / mile
Wght: 72.2 kg / 159.2 lbs
Roads are wet from last night's rains. Early wake-up at 4, departure
at the crack of dawn around 5:40. There are already people walking on
ECC, and at the circle. I hesitate to take Dog Alley (rather than the
main road and its early morning trafic), and sure enough, I am bothered
by a group of dogs. A watchman lethargically arrives in our direction,
but doesn't do much. I ask him, main kya karoun, main patthar phenkoun?
Nahi, sir, nahi, but he doesn't do much. The dogs show no sign of
fear, but let me pass.
It looks like I've reached my goal of bringing my training pace back
to 9' miles (it had slowed down dramatically during Ramzan). I would
like to continue to inject a conservative dose of speed work into my
routine. This pace now feels pretty comfortable.
Intervals at the Inner Circle -- 08/15/15
Inner Circle Mile Intervals
IMPORTANT: 3 REVOLUTIONS = 1.06 MILES
Warmup: 0:19:26
Intervals: 7'49" (2'31") -- 7'49" (2'12") -- 7'52"
Pace: 7'22" - 7'22" - 7'25"
Cooldown 0:05:50
Time: 0:53:30
Mileage: 6.3 Miles -- (1.06 * 3) + (0:29:59 @ 9'30") = 3.18 + 3.16
Wght: 72.8 kg / 160.5 lbs
That early morning, we went for a walk with Ruksanna, to the Inner
Circle then exploring the alleys and dead-ends in the neighbourhood
(one of which leads to a nice meadow with a temple, from which there
is unfortunately no road). Then, after bringing her back to Citilights,
I return to the Inner Circle to follow my plan of running Mile Intervals,
which end up being a little faster than I thought (but still way slower
of course than my old 2001 pace).
We will be meeting the children tomorrow in Nagawar -
-- Madeleine and Sofia, City Market --
Illness - Surah Waqi'ah -- 09/03/15
Rustique - ELIM - Holy Cross - Vijay Nagar - Naugondanahalli -
Water Temple: 0:34:23
N. Route - Hamlet - Imadihalli - Whitefield - Outer Circle -
Rustique: 0:32:37
Time: 1:07:00
Mileage: 6.9 Miles / 11.1 km
Pace: 9'42" / mile
Wght: 72.1 kg / 159 lbs
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 08/24/15 --
Wght: 73.1 kg / 161.1 lbs
Sick, sore throat, hence did not run, but walked to work instead,
which took about 1/2 hr at a very leisurely pace.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 08/26/15 --
Still sick. Actually took off yesterday, and went to the doctor, who
didn't find much special. This morning, walked to work again. Amazing
how one sees things differently depending on mode of transportation.
Even running versus walking makes a big difference!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 08/27/15 --
Wght: 73.1 kg / 161.1 lbs
Still sick, but slightly better. I continue to walk to work early morning,
which continues to be rather pleasant. Not so happy about my weight, but
there's nothing I can do for now, as I get repeated attacks of dizziness
which require urgent food and sleep!! Typically, one around 11am, the other
around 6pm. These feel really awful!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 08/28/15 --
Still sick, but continuing to improve. Another day of walking to work,
always the same route (which actually takes 20 minutes) and yet always
noticing new things. At least the 6:00pm dizziness didn't hit yesterday
evening, but the 11:00am one does. Symptoms have moved from the throat
to nose and chest. Still tired overall. I feel very uneasy in my body,
which sometimes comes out as a flurry of rage.
Madeleine missed her flight. Luckily still able to arrive tomorrow night.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 08/29/15 --
Home Gym: 0:45:00
Wght: 72.5 kg / 159.8 lbs
Still sick. Madeleine arrives that night, a day late.
Sunday, we go by bus to City Market then Sivajinagar, where it's Mariamma
festival. We have great time, but it seems to accentuate a really bad
cough, I feel really crappy when we return at night.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 09/03/15 --
Finally feeling a little better, I head out for a run, while Ruksanna
and Madeleine went to Yoga. It would probably be wise to stick to 1/2
hr, but I end up doing this instead. I do feel weak, my legs even
flaky whenever I stop, and my breathing gets laborious on the way back,
to the point where I really grit my teeth to finish back home!
NEW SHOES, this is the first time trying Asics Shoes bought in
India through FlipKart! So far so good...
In these last few days, I have completed learning the 1st Ruku of
Surah Waqi'ah.
-- Surah Waqi'ah, 1st Ruku --
-- Elaruvi --
Recovery -- 10/16/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 09/07/15 --
Home Gym: 0:12:00
Outer Circle - Dodsworth - Nellurahalli - Sai Baba
Time: 0:31:43
Mileage: 3.45 Miles - 5.6 Km
Pace: 9'11" / mile
Wght: 73 kg / 161 lbs
Still stiff and laborious, especially after about 1/2 hr.
Madeleine and Jeremie left last night, amidst torrential rains, that have
left the roads very muddy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 09/08/15 -- Flooding
Home Gym: 0:15:00
ELIM - to Sheraton - Main Road - Inner Circle - Borewell Road -
Nellurahalli - Accenture - Sai Baba
Time: 0:48:06
Mileage: 5.1 Miles - 8.2 Km
Pace: 9'25" / mile
Wght: 73 kg / 161 lbs
It has rained heavily again last night, so much that our street is flooded,
right in front of Gopalan Atlantis. Even this morning, that portion is
deep in water, with some people crossing it bare feet. I was going to run
identical to yesterday, but seeing the flood, change plans for this unusual
route. The Main Road is actually not that bad at this hour, plus it's a
pleasant descent. I still have to wade through a few small flooded patches.
I feel great though, my legs still painful but at least my breathing feels
much better, and I am able to run at first with the scarf. But once
again, I weaken tremendously after about 1/2 hr, and finish the run
uncomfortably. It feels like it's slowly coming back though. I am still
coughing a little, but for the most part the illness is over.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 09/09/15 --
Outer Circle - Dodsworth - Nellurahalli - Sai Baba
Mileage: 3.5 Miles - 5.6 km
Time: 0:32:04
Pace: 9'09" / mile
Wght: 73.6 kg / 162.3 lbs
Bad start to the day. I wake up at 3:30, unable to fall back of sleep in spite of best attempts. And this weight gain further takes it out of me. The run is somewhat painful, very sore legs, especially in the hamstrings. I am still coughing somewhat.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 09/11/15 --
Outer Circle - Dodsworth - Nellurahalli - Sai Baba
Mileage: 3.5 Miles - 5.6 km
Time: 0:32:22
Pace: 9'14" / mile
Wght: 72.8 kg / 160.5 lbs
Up around 4 (but feeling good), out at 5:40, just before dawn. Lighting spotty but sufficient through Whitefield. Recovery continues to progress, I still "feel" my hamstrings, but slowly getting better. Dog threat near Police Station, but I repel them vigorously.
-- Ruksanna's father in Elaruvi --
-- Sabari and the Pigeon --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 09/13/15 -- Hike in Elaruvi
Estimated time: 2:30:00 (???)
Up the dry river, likely to the same point than last time.
-- In the Jungle above Elaruvi --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 09/15/15 --
Gopalan Atlantis - Inner Circle - Dodsworth - Borewell - Sai Baba
Mileage: 3.7 Miles - 6 Km
Time: 0:35:14
Pace: 9'31" / mile
Wght: 73.1 kg / 161.1 lbs
Ruksanna having spent the night in Kandilli following BhaiJaan's father's death, I drop Sofia at the school bus and run this, actually quite pleasant in spite of the late hour traffic. Continuing to feel more comfortable. Cough and soreness just about over by now.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 09/16/15 --
Citilights - Inner Circle - Whitefield - Main Road - Vartur Kodi -
W. Trail - Dunmore House - Accenture - Sai Baba (left side) - IPTL
Mileage: 5.35 miles - 8.6 km
Time: 0:49:20
Pace: 9'13" / mile
Wght: 72.6 kg / 160 lbs
Depart at 6. Wanted to lengthen run a little so came up with this.
Landscape continues to change rapidly. A small building has sprouted
at the entrance of the W. Trail!
-- Rebuilding the roof, Elaruvi --
-- Abba throning among the women --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 09/21/15 --
Dodsworth - Borewell - Nellurahalli - Dunmnore House - Accenture -
EPIP - Sai Baba - ITPL
Mileage: 5.05 Miles - 8.15 Km
Time: 0:46:34
Pace: 9'13" / mile
Wght: 73.9 kg / 162.9 lbs
Return from Elaruvi late last night, after four days.
Infuriated by this weight gain. Seems the village life fattens us!
Is it all this Chai??
-- Sofia and the Bhingi --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 09/22/15 --
Through Inner Circle - Main Road - Vartur Kodi - Siddapura -
Nellurhalli - Pattandur - ITPL
Mileage: 5 Miles - 8 Km
Time: 0:45:44
Pace: 9'08" / mile
Wght: 73.1 kg / 161.1 lbs
Feeling quite good actually. Good Yaseen Namaaz. Try to get a route to
about 45 minutes, and get it just right. The road from Siddapura to
Pattandur has returned to native dirt, in places impassable to vehicles.
A nasty aggressive pack of dogs by the lake slums. No one helps me out
this time, nor even really smiles at me.
A new pain in the left knee is preventing me from sitting in Namaaz
properly. Strangely, the motion of running is fine but seems to disturb
the other knee!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 09/23/15 --
Whitefield Main Rd - Vartur Kodi - Siddapura - Dunmore House -
Accenture - Sai Baba - ITPL
Mileage: 5.6 Miles - 9 Miles
Time: 0:52:41
Pace: 9'24" / mile
Wght: 72.5 kg / 159.8 lbs
Some thunder and rain when I woke up at 4, but all clear (and quite
nice) when I leave, around 5:54, a little later than I anticipated,
after a longer Yaseen Namaaz.
The troubling knee pain is still there. Not sure what happens with
this one.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 09/24/15 -- Chhota Rasta
ECC - Loyal Supermarket - Main Road - ITPL
Mileage: 1.85 Miles - 3 Km
Time: 0:16:27
Pace: 8'53" / mile
Wght: 71.6 kg / 157.8 lbs
Meeting at 6:30.
Knee pain is getting steadily worse, starting to contaminate other
actions. But running itself feels strangely fine, although it might
be wise to pause. I now doubt what could be the cause: Is it truly
from sitting in Namaaz, or could it perhaps be the new shoes? This
will be one of those really hard to debug ones....
As depressing as these news could be, I perhaps see it as an opportunity
to focus on other things for some time. I just hope to physically hold
up without running, as I know I could be vulnerable to depression.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 09/26/15 -- 4 miles at the Circle
To the Circle: 0:06:17
4*3 revolutions: 9'25" - 9'36" - 9'25" - 9'19"
Back: 0:06:32
Inner Circle Data: 4.24 Miles - 0:37:45 - 8'54"/mile
Time: 0:50:35
Mileage: 5.7 Miles
Wght: 72 kg / 158.7 lbs
Knee pain has subsided somewhat. Timidly able to sit in Namaaz now.
Two dogs escort for the last mile on the circle, revolving dutifully
with me, before a few others come to fight them.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 10/01/15 -- ECC - Lake Trail - Pattandur - ITPL (shortest route)
Home Gym: 0:23:00
Run: 0:12:24
Mileage: 1.35 Miles - 2.2 Km
Pace: 9'11" / mile
Wght: 72.2 kg / 159.2 lbs
Knee seems to continue to deteriorate slowly. It even seemed a little swollen last night. So I am definitely switching the emphasis away from running. I have also reverted today to OLD SHOES.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 10/05/15 --
Mileage: 3.5 Miles - 5.65 Km
Time: 0:31:03
Pace: 8'52" / Mile
Wght: 72 kg / 158.7 lbs
Heavy downpour caught us yesterday in Sivajinagar, flooding the streets.
NEWS SHOES, Because of knee pain, I've changed shoes again, buying 200$
Adidas Shoes at Phoenix Mall!! Knee has been gradually better, but let's
see how running affects it.
-- Downpour in Sivajinagar --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 10/06/15 --
Home Gym: 0:45:00
Run: ECC - Loyal Supermarket - Main Rd - ITPL
Mileage: 1.9 Miles - 3 Km
Time: 0:16:27
Pace: 8'39" / mile
Wght: 72 kg / 158.7 lbs
Up at 3:50, take that opportunity for Home Gym followed by long
Namaaz. Most stretching standing up for a change. Knee is tentative
again, so caution.
A bit cold this morning, after another rainy night. Wearing
long-sleeved Jersey.
Even on this innocuous road, I get bothered by a group of dogs, near
Supermarket. Do they smell my fear?
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 10/07/15 --
Home Gym: 0:16:30
Run: 0:54:41
Full Outer Circle - Whitefield - Vartur Kodi - Siddapura - Nellurahalli -
Accenture - Sai Baba.
Mileage: 5.85 Miles - 9.4 Km
Pace: 9'20" / mile
Wght: 72 kg / 158.7 lbs (on the edge of 71.7 :)
Yesterday's lawyer conversation has brought unexpected relief,
at least for a time. The fear of the last days has loosened its hold.
Long Yaseen in Namaaz again this morning. And continued
progress learning SUrah Waqi'ah.
Meeting cancelled last minute, beautiful morning, sunny and cool after
the night rains, still dripping. I take a change of trying out my knee.
But how much have I lost. I lose my breath after Nellurahalli, and finish
laboriously at a very slow pace. Still a happy sunny day though!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 10/08/15 --
ELIM - Straight trail to Main Road - ITPL
Mileage: 1.9 Miles - 3 Km
Time: 0:16:50
Pace: 8'51" / mile
Wght: 72.2 kg / 159.2 lbs
Pfff, tired!
A very long Namaaz, first Waqi'ah for Fajr, then, Burooj, Tariq, A'ala
and Alaq to catch up on Ishaa missed last night.
I try to run the right side of the main road, thinking the traffic
might be less in that direction, but it proves a miscalculation.
Good news is that knee feels ok in spite of yesterday's longer run.
-- Progress on SUrah Waqi'ah --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 10/09/15 --
Outer Circle - Dodsworth - Borewell - Nellurahalli - Sai Baba
Mileage: 3.5 Miles - 5.6 Km
Time: 0:32:41
Pace: 9'20" / mile
Wght: 72.2 kg / 159.2 lbs
Another exhaustion attack yesterday, the usual shut-down, but feeling great
this morning after a better night's sleep. Short Namaaz, stretching, and
out at 5:43, at the crack of dawn. Focused on a controlled pleasant run,
rehearsing Surah Waqi'ah. Knee seems to be roughly ok, although still
can't sit properly crossed-legged (but sitting in Namaaz is ok).
I thought my weight was going to crash down but, well, it didn't.
-- Sofia and friend in Jhula --
-- Elaruvi --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 10/12/15 --
Home Gym: 0:20:00
Inner Circle 3*1 - Borewell Rd - Nellurahalli - Accenture - EPIP -
Windmills - Sai Baba - ITPL
Mileage: 5.35 + 1.06 = 6.4 Miles
Time: 0:57:50
Pace: 9'02" / mile
Wght: 72.5 kg / 159.8 lbs
Return from Elaruvi weekend. Feeling good and rested. Run longer. Knee
appears to 90% (still some discomfort sitting cross-legged).
Steady progress on Surah Waqi'ah.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 10/13/15 --
Home Gym: 0:24:00
ECC Road - Lake Trail - Pattandur Agrahara - ITPL
Mileage: 1.35 Miles - 2.17 Km
Time: 0:12:00
Pace: 8'53" / mile
Wght: 72.2 kg / 159.2 lbs
This area is also being dismantled. Nothing is left of the former
"lake community", even that little house where Sonu Khan used to
live has been turned to rubble.
Knee pain is somewhat back unfortunately.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 10/15/15 --
Home Gym: 0:29:00
Outer Circle - Borewell rd - Nellurahalli - Accenture - Sai Baba.
Mileage: 3.7 Miles - 6 Km
Time: 0:33:02
Pace: 8'55" / mile
Wght: 72.5 kg / 159.8 lbs
Slept better, although up at 4. But at least fell back asleep after
waking up around 2, unlike the previous nights' insomnias.
Home Gym, followed by a particularly intense Yaseen Namaaz, and out on
the run after waking Ruksanna up. A beautiful crisp chilly morning,
winter like. In the usual law of constrasts, I feel particularly good
after yesterday's exhaustion.
Knee is generally good. Sitting cross-legged is what seems to revive
the pain most.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 10/16/15 --
Through Inner Circle - Borewell Road - Nellurahalli - Accenture -
EPIP Long - Petrol Bank - Basavananagar - Hoodi - Along Rail Road -
Along Shantinikethan - ITPL
Mileage: 7.1 Miles - 11.5 Km
Time: 1:06:59
Pace: 9'26" / mile
Wght: 72.1 kg / 158.9 lbs
First decent run in a long time!
Good crisp weather. Wear the mask
along the main road, but appreciate the quiet spots and the morning
neighborhood life. Knee tentative,
but hard to read during the run, will measure the effect later.
Feel good at this slower pace, no particular problem.
As often, I fantasize a hilly ending to a bike ride on the last part
of this, which enlightens this otherwise boring finish. Otherwise,
have been rehearsing Surah Waqi'ah.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Bridge over the Slum (8.4 Miles) -- 10/18/15
ECC - Loyal Supermarket - Main Road - Hope Farm - Chansandra: 0:24:45
Chansandra - Thirumalashetty halli: 0:15:35
To the Rail Road - Back trail along the tracks - Kadugodi streets -
Kadugodi pedestrian bridge over the rail road: 0:17:13
Back through Dinur - ELIM: 0:21:06
Mileage: 8.4 Miles - 13.5 Km
Pace: 9'21" / mile
Time: 1:18:39
Wght: 72.7 kg / 160.3 lbs
The first true run in a long time!
I don't have a specific plan in mind. I was going to run at the circle,
but soon realize that I can no longer stand the tedium of running in familiar
places. To hell with my knee, and off I go, turning this into a semi-exploration,
the first in a long long time!
This being a Sunday morning, I expect the main road to Chansandra to
be relatively quiet. Big mistake! Buses, trucks, etc., lifting smoke and
dust, noise, the opposite of the meditative mood that I long for.
So after Chansandra, I turn left towards Saukhia road, and left again
at the fork. This leads me to the old trail along the tracks that I would
sometimes take in the Kadugodi heyday. I haven't been here in a long long
time. It hasn't changed that much, except for one inevitable construction
site in the fields - otherwise pristine.
I apprehend slightly meandering through the small streets of Kadugodi,
which I used to call "la Cour des Miracles" for its incredible
cast of characters, where we would go by the "ration" with the slumdwellers.
Finding my way through the alleys, I approach the Kadugodi railroad crossing,
where there is now even a pedestrian bridge over the railtracks (which does
not prevent some crowd to cross the tracks like in the old days).
For the first time, I elect to cross the bridge, taking me straight to the
Kadugodi tent community.
I pass the old entrance to the slum for the first in about
five years. From the corner of my eye, the makeshift tea shop where we
used to drink. But I run by, look without looking, and do not recognize
anyone, nor am I hailed. In theory, most of the slumdwellers have moved
to the "Kotress" in Chansandra, so the tent community should have
been mostly vacated. Besides, there is no real danger now, we have
re-established peaceful contact.
From there it's the old familiar route through Dinur, the Governement
School where I would walk the children to school, on my way to ITPL...
-- Further progress on Surah Waqi'ah --