Running with wolves

Thats exactly how I always feel when I step inside the dark and sinister looking environs of Aarey colony for my weekend long runs. It is not unlikely nor is it surprising to find a wolf or a leopard lurking in the thick foliage:-) When I woke up at 3:30am this morning, I realized that my chances of a strong "target pace" run were slim. I tried going back to sleep but kept tossing and turning with thoughts of my rotten work life occupying center stage.

At 5:30, I dragged my sleep deprived body to the kitchen for a cuppa coffee. There was even some vacillation on whether to postpone the run to tomorrow but then I know that tomorrow will have its own surprises. So off I go and can feel the "ventilatory threshold" not very far away, as I jog to the start of my measured route. I decide adhoc that I will do a certain loop at my race pace. All goes well until the 19K mark when I suddenly find my legs have gone lifeless. There it is, the effect of sleep deprivation, lackof recovery and low endurance. I hang on for another 6K and then call it a day. I resolve to come back tomorrow and do a medium long run so that the endurance does not take a back seat. I hope to meet up with two ex-IITians that promised to come to Aarey for a run on Sunday. One of them is a guy in his mid 50s who runs a mean half Marathon.

I jogged home with mounting tredipation at the prospect of not being able to hit my target pace on Jan 18. Well, I had similar apprehensions before the Lausanne Marathon and look what happened; I beat the goddamned wall!!!!!!!! So, I guess I have to analyze what I did right there. Ahem, the only thing I can remember is the one too many tippling sessions and I certainly won't allow myself to think that they helped - or would I?:-)))))

Christmas spirit

I woke up this morning (and got myself a beer...:-)) to a stiff and achy body. The post work out micro-trauma had reared its head with a vengeance. I had promised Mahesh that I would drive down to Aarey and we could meet the others for a discussion on status of training for the Marathon. My body complained as I dragged myself to the washroom. I called out to the maid that I need some coffee and to prepare the bottle of milk and bread that I was supposed to carry for the strays in Aarey.

I cruised in my car listening to the soft strains of "I found her diary underneath the tree..." by David Gates. I love this particular album by "Bread" that I'd pidked up at Planet M. I arrived and waved to walkers that I know and headed straight to our rendevous point but there was no one in sight. "I've been had!," I complained:-) I went off to feed some puppies and strays; 17 in all and they really really enjoyed the meal. I cruised around some more and now switched to "Carlos Santana". Many of the walkers nodded appreciation to the stacatto of drums and the electric wailing of "Black Magic Woman" - I like raising the volume when playing this track. Still no one, so I headed home.

Evening and I found that I have nothing to do so I decide to set up the Christmas tree as a pleasant surprise for the wife and son. I play Jim Reeves' Christmas Carols and hum the one about;
Dear Senor Santa Claus I think I'll tell you what
I would like for christmas and I hope you won't forgot
I only want some peso that I want for mine
to get my senorita something for christmas night

I patiently set about tying & hanging the bells, whistles, angels, holly, stocking and drape colourful lights so that the christmas tree looks bright and cheerful. There is now that veritable mood of christmas in the house and I can see that Dojo too senses the festive spirit. Talking of spirit, I realize that I have been working hard and find the need to celebrate my selfless effort in brightening up the home:-). I pour myself a cuppa to stay in sync with the warm atmosphere I have created, even as I am consumed with emotion of past christmases with my family to the tune of,

There' an old christmas card
in an old dusty trunk
and it brings back sweet memories dear to me

Tho its faded and worn
its as precious as the morn
its the memories of an old christmas card

I'm filled with so much love everytime
yes I'm always sentimental round this time

I retire to the sofa and muse about the coming race and my preparedness or lack of it. The "salutary"(:-)) effects of the "christmas spirit" I was sipping over-rode any despair I felt about the lack of "zing" to my training:-) I must have displayed a laconic smile on my face as I wondered whether I oughta' tell ol' chap santa claus to fetch me a sub 3:50 this race, cause the maid gave me a look that implied she thinks I'm losing it:-)))))))))

Throwing caution to the winds!

I received a call last night from Mahesh informing me that he was scheduled to leave for Kerala (he works with a travel agency) and would be away for 2 weeks. He was checking whether he could do a 20 miler on Saturday ie today and also whether I would be kind enough to come along. I told him I would call him back cause this required careful thought. Here is the predicament: Mahesh has done two 20 milers on two consecutive weeks and this would be the third one; he was reduced to a shuffle in our 20 miler last Saturday; I had done a 20 miler, followed by speedwork on Thursday and felt it would be insane to do a 20 miler with just that one day gap. What do I do?

I analysed that Mahesh is young and has been a state level athlete, and would probably handle the load. Besides, if he is going to be away for 2 weeks, he would have enough time to recover. I, on the other hand, ol' chap, am still battling sleep deficit and the combination of training load as well as work stress may prove to be my bane. Well, again on the other hand, (reminds me of the "My Fair Lady" dialogue) I just might get rewards for pushing the "envelope":-). The call back to Mahesh was a resounding "YES!"

I reached Aarey, after bidding Monsoon and Bryan "Bon Voyage" for their trip to Gauhati. As I ran the first loop, I didn't see Mahesh and wondered if he woke up with the "dead legs syndrome", and decided to quit. I know he is not the type; if he says he'll be there, he will! I wasn't wrong cause I met him on the return leg of my first loop. A quick calculation told me that if I didn't see him pass me by and he started his run late, he was covering distance at a bloody good pace. But then this is Mahesh, my favorite marathoner that has done a 3:17 (based on my coaching - Ahem!) - burnt the bloody marathon route, didn't he:-)))) He wanted to turn and join me to run alongside, but I declined cause he would probably end up making me train like I wanted a Boston Qualifier:-)

We went our own ways, nodding encouragement everytime we passed each other. On my third loop, I felt my calves had turned to lead and when I met Mahesh, I saw the exhaustion wearing him down too. He gestured that he would call it quits on this loop - which meant abandoning the 20 miler! I was running extended loops and my third loop plus the run back home would give me my 20 miler. I told this to Mahesh and he nodded a congratulatory gesture. When I was returning from my third loop, I bade him "bye" and he sent me this shocker; "I am coming back for one more loop". So you see my dear friends, it works perfectly when you have two passionate runners that respect each other and vow to follow each others' footsteps (pun intended). In my utter exhaustion, I was only able to gesture weakly to Mahesh, "way to go man!" but my eyes must have shown admiration cause he went by with dogged determination.

I finished my run with the lead (which is maleable) having turned to cast iron, in my calves - they would have torn if I'd dared to stretch after the run. I realized with trepidation, that this year my training had taken a big hit in terms of mileage. I dare not even calculate the percentage loss! The only hope comes thru' such runs that are a God send thru' my dear pupil, Mahesh. Race day approaches and I feel that there are many elements missing from my training. But then, I'm in it for the long run:-)

Proprioception!

When I awoke this morning and went to the washroom, I heard a muffled "woof" from Dojo, which was actually his way of stating that based on his "chowkidari" there is an intruder in the house. I quietly admonished him about his inability to distinguish between "da-da and an intruder":-) He promptly gave a soft wimper and turned over on his back for a customary tickle on the belly. I laughed at this cheeky gesture of his; actually extracting a truce from me, when he was the one that displayed insolence:-)

My "speedwork" was being done a day late because I'd found that I was coming down with a cold which I attributed to a combination of sleep deficit, stress and the 20 miler I'd done last weekend. My cautious approach actually worked cause I felt a bit stronger today and the "sniffles" had reduced. I wore a double vest; something I'd picked up when I was in Malaysia and set out for another "rock-n-roll" session:-)

As I jogged slowly to Aarey Colony in the dark, I realized with dismay that my stop-watch was not on my wrist! I stopped and contemplated walking back to look for it in case it had fallen off my hand. I realized the futility of this time-wasting notion and dejectedly jogged to my starting point. Damn!! I hoped that I'd forgotten to wear my watch cause I would be very depressed if I lost this particular one. It has helped me track 11 marathons! This was the first time in probably 8 yrs, that I'd have forgotten to wear my stop-watch. How does one do speed-work without a stop watch? "Elementary my dear Watson"!

I have been doing distance running for a while now and have come to understand the "feel" for various paces. The body learns this thru' a process called "proprioception" - kinesthetic awarness of space, direction and velocity (gymnasts, figure-skaters and ballet dancers have a special gift). And so my dear friends I ran 9.6K at what I think was a 99% approximation for my "tempo" pace:-))) It is amazing how, over the years I've learned the fine art of tailoring work-outs at the last minute! Dan, stop it now; you are supposed to be the modest type:-) Well, I reached home with heart palpitations that had less to do with my tough work out and more to do with the prospect of not finding my beloved watch. I entered my home and went straight to the bed-side table and Voila!; there it was lying just as I'd left it the night before. Lucky Dan! I wish I could call myself "Steely Dan" cause its my favorite Jazz group.

Dojo - my baba!

The beep of the alarm going off at 5:30am on Saturday coincided perfectly with my waking up from a peaceful sleep. I felt the warm furry form of Dojo at my feet and I felt a surge of happiness suffuse thru' my being. A grey dawn was just breaking and it happened to be Dojo' birthday!! The first thing I did was give him a kiss on his long snout and a whisper of "happy birthday!".

As I wore my Reebok (Blue Suede?) shoes, I thought, "time to rock and roll, Dan:-)". I had planned a run that was definitely not for the faint-hearted but certainly a celebration for Dojo. As I set a scorching tempo for the first 6K, my being pulsed to the rhythm of Elvis' 12-bar blues song, Blue Suede Shoes;

One for the money,
two for Dojo,
three to get ready and go man go
..............you can do anything but don't step on my blue suede shoes

Well you can knock me down
Step on my face
slander me down
all over the place......uh uh honey lay off my blue suede shoes

Just as I finished the circuit on target pace and was breathing hard with arms akimbo, Mahesh came along and executed his Guru-Shikshak gesture of obeisance. I was thrilled cause the rest of my run was a 2hrs 45mins easy run and what better stimulus than my dear friend Mahesh. We had veritable grins of deep satisfaction when we both saw Pankaj running towards us and heard him hail, "32K?". Yes sir, its going to be a 20 miler for Dojo.

We felt the pace and distance telling on us: Me, because I had gone three days without lunch in Ludhiana and "glycogen-depletion" is a sure hazard, and Mahesh, cause he had done a 20 miler last Sunday in Kharghar (of all the places:-))) For the first time I saw Mahesh reduced to a shuffle but the run was completed - no doubt about that, especially as we had a promise to keep to Pankaj that we'd see him on the following circuit:-)

A well earned breakfast of eggs and toast, a multitude of chores involving buying Bryan Jeans, to ordering Dojo' cake to arranging "veg snacks" for some of the invitees to Dojo' celebration, and a nice appertif to prepare myself for a much needed snooze.

Evening was a hilarious event with Som' family and their Cocker-Spaniel, Toby, and other people going into fits of laughter over singing "Happy Birthday dear Dojo.........":-))) Then there was the cake cutting, distribution to all - even to the watchmen (who found it ridiculous that we spend money on a Black Forest cake for a dog' birthday) -, and a veritable goan cuisine. Dojo realized that something special was happening on his behalf cause there were some "Poodle Puppies" that were brought to join the celebration. I donated money for care of strays and gifted the maid too. When the maid asked me as to what I had given Dojo, I replied that God will take care of him cause we are taking care of dogs that are not fortunate enough to have families. She was dumb-struck by this reply and retreated into a contemplative mood.

Joie de vivre!!

When I wrote "Viva Lausanne", my ex-boss in Switzerland was very moved and sent the mail to most of the employees that knew me then. He told me that it was nice for an Indian to run a Marathon in Lausanne and write so nicely about the people. The title of my post, though serving as encouragment to living a full life, there is less to cheer about nowadays and thus the sarcasm - si'il vous plait!!!

I am happy with the run I did on Sunday as it more than surpassed my expectations. I also met my dear Aarey friends and I found that they have scheduled a race of 10k/21k on 4th Jan. They want me to be taking the "lead" in some way but I am wary about these things nowadays for reasons best kept a secret. My friends from IIT that ran the Pune Marathon had a lot to write about the race and I feel excited that they had the same experience that I did almost 10 years ago - I feel vindicated cause "I told them so!"

I am also happy that I met one of the runners in Delhi, from RFL, that seems lost but has a sure fire passion. I do hope that the fraternity grows as the years go by. I feel that disparate groups are existing but there is no "connection" that binds them. I have also a sense of......dunno what it is. But who cares - Viva Goa! (stated with a raising of the toast!)

O Happy Day!

When I woke up on Saturday morning, I didn't think that the day would turn out to be beyond my initially depressing expectations. As I lay on my bed feeling unusual exhaustion, I wondered whether the long run I was to do was mis-timed. My office had declared a holiday in view of the tragic events in Mumbai and I thought it opportune to prepone my long run that is normally scheduled for a Sunday.

I drank my cup of Java and went out with the intention of returning home in case things turned out for the worse. 6K into the run and I felt the strain and wanted to quit and return the next day. Then I thought I'd visit the temple at Aarey but this would mean doing 10.4K - so what! Along the way I met Pankaj Sharma (I enquird, "long run?" and he said, "lets see!") and then Mahesh, and felt elated cause I was with my "brethren". Mahesh decided to join me and I welcomed it cause his pace would put a zip into my run (but it would also tire me quickly:-)).

We went together to the "Hanuman Temple" and decided that we'd do about 16K for the day and waddya know; we ended up doing 3 hrs of running. I don't know whether it was divine benediction or whether it was the fact that everytime we passed Pankaj, he told us that he would do "one more loop" (we were doing 8K loops), that we ended up testing our endurance. I marvelled at the motivation we provided each other for "stretching" our run. We all felt very happy when we were thru' and exchanged notes on our preparations. I like these guys that have been with me at Aarey since such a while.

When I reached home I called Shailendra from colpal and told him I'd visit him. We went as family and discussed his condition. He is doing fine and I pray that he gets a pleasant surprise when the second opinion, he has sought from "Wockhardt", pronounces him as fit to do the SCMM Half Marathon.

On my return from Kharghar, I stopped over at Som' place for beers and Khichdi with chicken cutlets:-) Trust Som to have plain Khichdi:-)))))))))) All in all, a nice morning, a "happy hours" afternoon and a happy day.

Time

Ticking away the moments that make up a dull day
Wasting the hours in an off-hand way-e-yay
The sun is the same in the relative way but you're older
Shorter of breath and one day closer to death

Tired of lying in the sunshine, staying home to watch the rain
Plans that either come to nought or half a page of scribbled lines
Hanging on in quiet desperation is the English way
The time is gone, the song is over,
I thought I'd something more to say :-(

That was the "dark side of the moon". The bright side for me is that I have made "running" a constant in my life, so far. It has also been my only and constant companion in times of inner strife; helping me sift thru' the confusion of thoughts. A companion like Dojo; who came up to me when I lay awake last night and curled near my feet. As if in silent communion with and compassionate to my situation. I pray that the almighty give me the good health to keep running. Its going to be a new year soon and it will bring good tidings - I'm sure. The resolve is even stronger to get up and run - everytime I fall.

Dilip is headed for Antarctica

Today was the first speed work out after a rather long lay off from my Marathon in Lausanne. I had just completed it and was sipping water while feeling the nip in the air when Dilip came by with a jovial "Hi Daniel". We shook hands and talked about life in general. I then told him about my ex-boss who I'd met up with in Switzerland and the information I had about his trip to Antarctica. I realized with a pleasant surprise that Dilip had already firmed up his plans and was headed there on Jan 19, 2009! It also happened that the details he shared with me exactly matched with the information I had from my ex-boss ie fly to Sau Paulo, spend 4 days, Buenos Aires, spend 2 days, Chile, Peru and then with an "ice breaker" head out for Antarctica with a team of Zoologists, Biologists, Doctors and food rations for the entire trip.

I envied Dilip for this but it seems he envied me more for the fact that I ran a Marathon in Switzerland while on holiday! He complimented me on making his day with some "healthy news":-)) We waved off with a promise to meet up for a drink one of these days:-)

Heart-breaking run

Sunday, 23rd Nov was a depressing day for me and a new low in my life. The previous day, I had returned from an exhausting tour to Bangalore, where I'd eaten junk food, tippled daily and the only time I exercized was when I had to climb the stairs one day at the hotel, when the lift was under repair. Not a very healthy state of affairs for a fitness-freak (not in terms of diet, please :-)) like me. So, I was looking forward to this long run at Kharghar with the Colpal team. I needed to run for my physical and psychological (my work life, as usual, was getting more dreadful) well-being, as also to connect with friends at Colpal.

We arrived at Kharghar to be met by Shailendra (at whose instance we were invited to run) and Saurabh. No sooner had we eased into a warm-up, Shailendra stopped and sat on the side-walk. When I queried him in alarm, he replied that he had a dizzy spell and would rest a bit. I advised him not to run and that he could go to where I'd parked my car. As I went ahead with my routine of running a 3K loop that Shailendra had shown me, I realized that he was not at the spot that I'd last seen him and assumed that he was waiting by the car. Towards the end of a 2 hr run, I egged on Saurabh for an additional 3K, which worked out well for both of us. We both jogged back to the parking lot and caught up with Madhu and Roshni on the way. When we found just T R Ravindran (our enthusiastic run-walker) but didn't find Shailendra waiting for us, we realized something was amiss and went about contacting his home.

There was bad news waiting for us; Shailendra was taken to hospital for a possible heart condition. I felt a shiver up my spine as I realized what this would mean for me as the "coach" and for my possible alternative (ahem...:-).. post-retirement coach) plans. I wasn't to blame for this situation as it wasn't as if we had gone on a "speed work-out" and I'd taken his heart rate over the brink. This incident occured during a bloody warm up! We went over to the hospital to check on him and got all kinds of discouraging news about a heart-attack, clot etc, which I mentally discounted as I know Indian doctors to get defensive on such matters.

As it turned out (based on a recent mail sent by Madhu), Shailendra has apparently no heart-condition from the 2D-echo-cardiography that was done. This brings us to the puzzling question as to what caused him to feel dizzy and uneasy?? I am awaiting that bit of news so that I can add it to my repertoire of experience in coaching; but meanwhile, the Colpal people were very kind to clear my name internally and in fact thought the world of me; especially some of the runners I train. So much for a depressing Sunday:-))))))))

Viva Lausanne!

We traveled as a family, to Switzerland on holiday and I decided to club it with a Marathon. Bryan too had a 4.2K race to run and was very excited about it. Race day! and, we woke up at 6am although the race was scheduled for 10am. Call it the race jittersJ. We munched on cinnamon buns and left for the race venue.

It seemed like entire Lausanne was participating because there were races for Nordic Walkers, 10k, ½ Marathon and races for children under sixteen. The sky was grey and there was a nip in the air (8 deg C) as runners went about their race preparations. There was a podium with girls and guys leading Nordic Walkers into a warm up with some “Jane Fonda” aerobics. Bryan and I sniggered as we tacitly agreed that such exertions were misplaced for an endurance race. We had left the hotel wearing our bibs with jackets shielding us from the cold. Monsoon had volunteered to carry our stuff from the start point because the finishing point was another 2kms away. I went to the mobile toilet for a last min leak and found that I had to stand in a queue. A young woman that was ahead of me, turned around and asked me, “Are you doing the full-marathon?” and on my nodding replied, “Then you better go ahead or you’ll be late for your race”. Do you see that? Will we see that in our country???

The race started and I set out with the usual nervousness. I decided to give it all I’ve got. About 2k into the run the sun came out. I was wearing a bandana to protect my ears from the cold and I yanked it off. 5K and I was dot on pace for a 3:50. There was a blonde ahead of me with a “Switcher” T-shirt and I called her “switcher blonde” so that I could hang on to her pace. I saw a woman with jiggling buns running way ahead of me and wondered; how in God’ name do they run at this pace with that frameJ))))))! Then I got this shiver up my spine as we went up an incline that didn’t seem to end. I wondered: this was a course that I did not get a chance to check out and rued my fate if the inclines were many. I found out, alright for sure, there were too goddamn, many of them. The route was the most beautiful that I’d ever seen in my life with the vast expanse of the placid lake Lausanne on one side and breath-taking vineyards on the other side.

I grabbed the water and “Powerade” at drinking stations and ran strong wondering, like Dr Noakes predicts (in “Lore of Running”); run too fast and you have a death march ahead of you! I threw caution to the winds saying, “You come to Lausanne once buddy, so face it as it comes”. There were bands playing my favorite tunes, especially the “wedding march” as I remembered in Goa, where couples hold hands forming an arch as the bride and groom walking thru’ it. There was one incline that I found particularly difficult and I suddenly realized that when I ran to the beat of the “Jazz Swing” being played by a band, I could handle it quite well.

I saw the lead runners go by on the other side of the road (it’s an out and back route) with the motorbikes flashing their electric blue blinding lights. It would indeed be nice to run at that paceJ)))))) I realized that I was on the wrong side of forty and ought not to have any hopes of such divine benevolenceJ))) I trudged on and saw the 21k turn around coming up. Thank God!! I felt strong and crossed myself as I wanted so much for Bryan to see me finish in less than 4 hrs. There were 8 climbs and descents on the way here and hence I could expect the same on the return. “Switcher blonde” had fallen behind and I had nobody to latch on to.

I saw the km markers go by and felt as strong as when I’d started out except that the climbs had taken out 4 mins from my target time. 32K and I braced myself for the “wall”. I zipped on and realized that I had probably done something right, because I did not feel a thing. At the 36K mark I felt myself slowing down feeling the “wall” and winced as I forced the pace on myself. At the 39K mark I felt like I’d like to vow never to run another marathon because the pain was so intense I felt every step was like I’d jumped off a stool!!!!!!!!!!! There was a Britisher that was alongside me because he felt that my strong pace would drag him to the finish. At the 40K mark (Goodness gracious) I saw “jiggly buns” – damn; how did she do it!!!! My body was on fire now as I felt the burn in my calves. I was at the stage where any let up in my pace would take me over the brink into a 4 hr finish. I could not allow that! The inclines had taken their toll on me but I hung in there.

I saw a large arch in the distance and realized that it must be the finish. I was now over-taking runners that glanced in surprise; some in annoyance and some in courteous acknowledgement. How in Gods name do you speed up at this stage? You do it when you have a promise to keep to your son and – miles to before you sleep. I crossed the finish line in 3:57 and saw my dear boy, Bryan wave out to me. I was spent now and I could barely walk as I feebly waved out to him. I learnt from him that he had run his 4.2K in 24 mins – that’s my boy!!!!!!!!!!!! I reached the finishing area and did the one thing that I believe is heavenly manna for marathoners – grab a “HEINEKEN”!!! A strong finish indeed ol’ chap. You are not done yet, DanJ)) I was particularly touched, on the way back to the hotel, on a bus, when a woman who must have been in her 70s, offered me a seat on the bus saying, “you have just run a marathon”! I had to hold back the tears when I saw such genuine heart-felt consideration. Viva Lausanne!

Reunion & Reminiscence

Today has been very special indeed. I finished my last long run in my "taper" before the Lausanne Marathon next Sunday. This run was intended to be just 1 1/2hrs but I stretched it a wee bit longer to get rid of the fat I'd accumulated in my tippling sessions on my recent tour to Coimbatore. I hurried home to shower and change so that I could zip to town to meet my bro-in-law Joe and my sister Leena, with Bryan. Monsoon couldn't make it because our neighbour passed away last evening after a long battle with a terminal illness.

I guzzled a few glasses of beer with Joe, before I left Bryan in their custody and went off to the golden wedding anniversary of Russell' parents at the "Goan Institute". I met old friends I hadn't seen in years and realized how much we all had aged since those heady days of silly antics, parties, dancing, football, firey eyes and dreams. As I pumped hands and hello'd everyone, grinning sheepishly and joking about scant hair, greying mustaches, crows feet and blubber, I felt a sense of depair as well as happiness. Despair because I saw how further aging had debilitated the ones that were already old in my youth as also news of some of my friends being no more. It was a raucous afternoon as we reminisced of pranks, daring-dos and bravado over guffaws, the switch to whiskey giving me a "buzz". The consequent light-headedness and soaring spirits got everyone even more boisterous:-) I met a gentleman, probably on the wrong side of sixty, who used to jog in those days when fitness was frowned upon. He was particularly taken in by my passion for marathoning and nostalgically recollected the days when he did 400m in 50 secs! We exchanged notes on training methods during his time in the 60s and 70s and the methods that prevail today.

As the afternoon wound down, I thankfully got a call from Leena that Bryan would like to stay over at their place for the night. I hungrily attacked the sumptuous goan cuisine and waved goodbye to everyone even as Bamoo threatened to confiscate my car keys and put me in a cab. So much for the science of "tapering" which proscribes alcohol in the weeks of the taper. I rued my fate in the Lausanne Marathon next Sunday realizing that I'd thrown caution to the winds once again. You are incorrigible Dan. Anyway - Lets do it!

A dog' life in the long run

Today is Gandhi Jayanti and I remembered his quote (from the BSPCA' literature) that, "The quality of a nation and its peoples can be judged from the way it treats its animals". If that is so: I have done my bit to raise the standard of the nation, on the birthday of its founding father.

I started out on my long run with a time target of 3 1/2 hrs but soon realized that there were some physiological factors not quite in harmony. I felt the unmistakable fatigue arising from lack of recovery from a previous workout. As I trudged along, I met a lady walker, who knows my love for strays. She informed me of a poor helpless dog that was lying in a ditch, unable to get up. I went to the location and found the poor thing lying in a flowing stream of cold water, looking at me with doleful eyes. I dropped down into the ditch and spoke in soft reassuring tones, as I gently and warily reached out to caress him. I found out that he had a broken leg and could not move so, I carried him out to a safe place under a bench. I fed him the salt and sugar solution I had carried for my run. I then contacted the lady (using another walker' cell phone), requesting her to call an NGO and that I would be around for the next 2 hrs, at least. I periodically checked on the dog as I continued running; trying to see, how long I could last in my fatigued state.

I then requested help from another walker (Dilip Kamtikar), who in turn put me on to another guy saying, he would help me. I went in search of this guy, but drew a blank. I returned to catch up with Dilip and requested him to get in touch with someone as soon as he got home; which he promised. I waited a long while but no one arrived so, I shuffled (I was really exhausted now) back home. I called Dilip asking, whether he had any information for me and he excitedly told me that a person (Vinayak) was waiting at the very spot I'd described and gave me his contact. I called the guy, only to have him tell me that the dog was nowhere in sight. I could not believe that so, I hopped on to my bike and rode in search of Vinayak. I found him at the wrong spot (a relief!) and asked him to follow me (he came by car). I led him to where I had kept the dog and now found the poor creature' contition had deteriorated.

Vinayak had thoughtfully brought a bedsheet and we laid him on the same and bundled him in the car. Some curious onlookers informed us that a man had struck the dog with a stout bamboo. Why are people so emotionally callous and why do they hurt these poor animals? Vinayak then drove to "Ahimsa" (an NGO hospital) and admitted the dog. Late that evening I got in touch with Vinayak to check if he had information about the dog and he reassured me that the people at Ahimsa had his contact number in case things turned out bad; which, apparently did not. Vinayak firmly believes that such acts of compassion bring God closer to your soul than a visit to a temple, mosque or church. I could not agree less and added that it surely brings a good night' sleep. Ironically and coincidentally, I need such a soporific nowadays. Another day in paradise!

Salvaged workouts and Sunday lunch

On Satuday I had one of those workouts that could have been relegated to the log as "junk miles" had it not been for a tip from Matt Fritzgerald' (Author of "The cutting edge runner") book on converting a failed workout into a "partially" successful one. I had started out on a "hard tempo" but bonked miserably because of, what I can analyse, as "psychosomatic imbalance". I managed, however, to do part of the speed-work with my tongue hanging out:-))) I returned home resolving to do a long run the next day so that I can salvage some training benefits.

Sunday turned out to be surprisingly cheerful for me: I started my long run at 6:10am and wound up at 9:00 having covered a fairly long distance at an easy pace. I felt real good cause it had saved me the usual pangs of guilt and depression that accompany failed work outs, when time is short and a race is coming up. I returned home, freshened up and left with Monsoon, to watch Bryan play his school match at Azad Maidan. It was an endearing sight to watch Kuku-boy and his team yelling at each other about "buckwas" passes, "faltu" kicks, missed goals ("tu chutya hai!!!") and full-blooded tackles:-) The game turned out to be a goalless draw though Kuku-boy' team was the better of the two (its the reason for all that yelling:-)).

Post-game, we went cruising around town, which is so beautiful and serene on a Sunday morning, with scant traffic on the roads. I showed Monsoon and Bryan my office building, Holy Name Cathedral and Colaba causeway. We then went to pick up Bamoo and had to make necessary adjustments to our car seats to accomodate Bamoo' "Sumo-sized" frame:-))). Lunch was at "Pratap", where Bamoo, as usual, jokingly pushed around the staff, yelled at them and ordered a "banquet": there were King Prawns salt-n-pepper, Giant Crab schezuan, King Prawn sauteed, Bombay Duck fry, Large Pomfret tawa fry, Squids in butter & Garlic and "Neer Dosas" - not to miss the copious beers that mysteriously seemed to appear out of nowhere:-) We regaled Monsoon and Bryan about our child-hood escapades, the pranks we pulled on friends and our "live-life-to-the-hilt-on-a-pittance" ability - this included a narrative on how I pawned my wrist-watch for Rs 40/- (actual price Rs 200/-) so that we could go to the movies and eat burgers:-))))))))

I called for the bill fully apprehending Bamoo' growl; which he did and with a jovial ferocity that got Bryan to snigger. I had to contend with Monsoon' complaints that I should have actually paid up the cashier by pretending to go for a wash, to which Bamoo laconically stated that the staff wouldn't dare. Bryan was in fits of laughter, later in the car, recalling how Bamoo "terrorizes" the staff:-)))) All in all, a beautiful Sunday outing, with family and a dear old friend. It did a lot to bring me much needed cheer in times when my professional life seems so depressing.

Colpal Team' smile shines!

The Colgate-Palmolive team decided to meet at National Park (and about time too) for a long run to test the endurance developed so far, based on the training I'd prescribed for them. There were seven of them and we met at the NP entrance just as a grey dawn was breaking. They all had their target distance planned in advance and after some hand-shakes, greeting each other, we set off. Aalok, the fittest of the lot ran with me as I wanted to "push" his pace up a bit.

Aalok and I did the first 12K at an easy pace after which I stepped on the gas but he found it difficult to keep up. I advised him to slow down and fall back since he might not be able to complete the scheduled 24K at this pace. I wanted him to do this "extended long run" so that he could build up a "reserve" for the half marathon distance. As I went into my second lap, I waved to Saurabh, Gunjit and Roshni, who seemed very comfortable doing 12k. I looked out for Madhu but she was no where in sight. A lot of thoughts raced thru' my mind, some of them about her having given up due to a bad stomach, lack of sleep or plain, having paced too fast initially. I somehow had to fight off morbid thoughts of leopards and rapists, though these are not to be discounted as impossibilities in this particular forest. I am responsible for the safety of the team as their coach though my responsibility should, technically speaking, be limited to the training regime and the inherent risks built into it. Well, I brought them over to NP and I better get them back in one piece:-)

I was relieved to learn that Madhu had just taken a wrong turn somewhere and she was in fact on her way to completing, what to her, is a dream distance: 19K!! Roshni and Aalok too finished their target distances of 18K and 24K; though Aalok seemed to have found the last 3K rather exhausting. The rest of the team (Saurabh, Gunjit, Prabhu and Ravindran, who was on his first training run) did 12.5K; much more than they have done so far. When I met up with the group after the run, I saw bright beaming smiles which one need not attribute to the Colgate toothpaste that they are compelled to use:-))))))))

Vernon' "realty bites"

Vernon is single, earns reasonably well (FC with Emirates, Dubai) and owns at least 4 properties in Mumbai. He called Bamoo and me over to "Pratap", a small eatery near Fort, so that he could discuss the out-of-court "settlement" that he was negotiating with his landlord, who had broken into his apartment in Byculla.

Bamoo and I decided that we'd make the best of the occasion given Vernon' parsimonious nature:-) We ordered King Prawns, Huge Crabs and Squids; a veritable gastronomical delight, all of it washed down with "appertiffs":-) We acted like stern solicitors so as to, at least superficially validate his trust in our capacity to advise him. We emboldened him on how to take a hawkish position on his "settlement", encouraged him on marriage and on how he could live life to the hilt, given his (notional) wealth embedded in his properties. We concluded the evening with a raucous toast and a promise to go together for the carnival in Rio during which they burst into a guffaw (which drew annoying looks from other tables) when I told them that Monsoon had promised to sponsor my trip to Rio :-))))))))))))

When the bill arrived, it seemed like we had not done enough justice to testing Vernon' parsimony. Its his good fortune that "Pratap" is a budget but outstanding eatery & bar, added to Bamoo' "influence" in getting us a discount - they should actually be adding a "surcharge" considering that Bamoo orders everyone around like he goddamned bankrolled the eatery:-))). Maybe we should make up for the shortfall by getting Vernon to finance our "participation" in the revelry at the Carnival:-))))))))))

Of commitments and priorities

I have an assignment (nay, a commitment) to drop Bryan off at his school bustop at 7am. This gives me just enough time to do a 5K (not good enough for a marathoner like me) and return home so that I can leave for work at 8:10am. On one day in a week, when I have a "hard work-out" scheduled, I make a deal with Bryan and the maid so that she drops him and I can leave for my work-out at 6am.

Last night, I mentioned to Bryan that the maid would have to drop him and hearing him sigh, "Ooookay", I realized that for some reason he didn't want to walk with the maid, to the bustop (we go on my Yamaha). Maybe it was because he did a "long" run yesterday, in preparation for his upcoming 4.2K race, and his legs were aching. I told him that I would try and leave late for work and that I would drop him. This lit up his eyes.

When I woke up this morning, I realized that I am scheduled to reach Mahim Church for the Novena at 8:30am (a commitment that I try to keep). This would mean I would have to leave the house by 8am; which in turn would mean that, after dropping Bryan I would have hardly any time! I immediately modified my workout so that it had the "zing" but the time taken would be half. It was a "compromise" so that I could keep my commitment to Bryan and God intact. I made all three; Bryan' drop, the workout and the Novena possible.

Impossible is nothing!!!! :-))))

The best laid plans......

On Tuesday evening as I went to meet "Bamoo", my "bum-chum" (we grew up as "chaddi dosts"), I was reviewing in my mind, the "hard tempo" work out that I'd planned for the next morning (it being Ganesh Chaturthi and a holiday for me). Little did I realize that these plans would vaporize (literally) as I met Bamoo at the Catholic Gymkhana. We caught up on old times and where we are today and settled, after much argument, that we would have "just one beer" each. As our discussions got underway, we were joined by another friend who happened to be a media planner for "Gitanjali Gems". He narrated the sleaze in the adv star world and enlightened us on the ouster of Aishwarya from "nakshatra" and her replacement by Katrina. It wasn't such conversation that was captivating, but its just that Bamoo kept urging me for "one more"; emotionally black-mailing me about how old friends shouldn't be in a hurry when meeting after such a while. There goes my "tempo" workout, I rued as the 8th bottle of beer got opened with a "kishhhcchh"!

I returned home at 11pm and decided to set the alarm for 5:30am anyway. It was a good decision cause I woke up feeling refreshed but not in a state to do a "tempo" run. I set out at an easy pace and carried 3L of diluted tang just in case I found some miraculous reserve to do a long run and whaddya know! I did 31.7K at a puttering pace but who cares; I got my engine revved up and running slowly on fat! I could clearly "see" muscle mitochondria, shaking their heads in disbelief and irritated disgust, muttering: "This jerk screws up "homeostasis" with his friggin' copious alcoholic beers, beef and pork chilly fry dripping in fat, sleeps fitfuly, gets the "commander" upstairs woozy, destabilizes neural-networks and now wants us to toss fat in the furnace to provide steam for his run. Who the hell does he think he is!!!!". The "commander" replies in his stupor, "He is Daniel, which in Hebrew means hard & strong, and you better get used to it and start kicking ass on those enzymes".

I returned home feeling triumphant not only because I nudged my endurance a notch higher, but I staved off any weight gain from the night-before binge!

The best laid plans don't necessarily go awry:-)

32K-ebabs and eggs for breakfast

I woke up on saturday morning with a plan to put in a long overdue 20 miler as I was getting a bit "rusty" on the long run front. I also have a marathon coming up soon which made it all the more compelling. I set out with the usual thoughts clouding my mind: will I "bonk" after 25K?

The run started on a dismal pace and I kept expecting the worst as I found my breathing too hard for such a "crawl". 10K into the run and I felt a surge build into my legs. What had happened? Did I suddenly have a rush of "glycogen"? I am still trying to evaluate this strange phenomenon. I went to finish 25K and still had some "gas in the tank". I felt relieved as I reeled out the last 7K and went on to log 32.6K for the day. The eggs and ham were a well-deserved treat. I feel vindicated and know I have my endurance in place. I have perhaps to lose a little weight in preparation for my race as every additional kilo slows you down.

Malshej Falls

The office team organized a trip to Malshej so that they could let their hair down. I joined for the day (the rest stayed overnight) cause I too needed a break. The drive thru' the "Ghats" was very scenic with myriad waterfalls, lush green hills and nary a soul in the wilderness.

We checked into our very "maharashtrian" hotel and settled into a "tipple" without losing any time. While we raised a toast to our good health, we gorged on "bhajias, paneer chilly and chicken chilly" and indulged in some inane banter. After everyone had agreed that they'd got the customary "buzz" in the head:-), we trudged to the rock face along the road, seeking a sufficiently large waterfall to "neutralize" the buzz in our heads. We found one alright but it was so bloody cold, I actually staggered out with my body jerking as if I was going thru' the withdrawal symptoms seen in a "wasted drug addict":-). After we had gotten well and truly frozen and wet, I called it a day as it was almost 4pm and time to leave. I got my driver to drive me back home as I snoozed fitfully. All in all a very nice day with office friends

The Children are our future

I believe the children are our future
Teach them well and let them lead the way
show them all the beauty they possess inside
Give them a sense of pride, to make it easier
Let the children' laughter remind us how we used to be....

That was George Benson and I hummed the tune as I felt low on hearing that Bryan has high fever and has been vomitting. I am on business tour and feel helpless especially because he has his exams. He could not finish his maths paper yesterday and had cried bitterly on the phone. He was unhappy because he felt he'd disappointed me since I'd spent so much time on teaching him math. I reassured him that it did not matter. I hope he recovers and is able to give his exams.

Wet weekend

I woke up on Saturday with a mild fever and decided that its not worth taking a chance doing my long run especially since it was raining "cats and dogs". I felt the usual pangs of guilt that I encounter whenever a "hard" workout is missed. I set my alarm for Sunday morning and woke up again to the roar of wind and hard rain. I drifted off to sleep for a while and then awoke with a start thinking that it was late morning. Fortunately, I found that it was still only 6am!

Its raining its pouring
The old man is snoring
He went to bed and he bumped his head
Couldn't get up in the morning.......
Listen to the falling rain, listen to it fall....
I started my long run at a gentle pace but found the going hard. I trudged on (although it says that if you feel tired in the first 3k, you should "can the run") trusting my judgement that this would not turn out to be a "damp squib run". About half way thru' the rain came down real heavy and I looked up at the heavens, revelling in the sting of raindrops on my face. My clothes grew heavy and clung to my body as I ran thru' rivulets on the road, my feet now flapping loud. As I ran alone thru' the lush green, wet and silent forest I remembered "the loneliness of the long distance runner" (Allan Sillitoe). Most of the morning walkers had probably decided to take the easy way out by propping some pillows and drinking hot coffee while watching the news:-).

I completed my target distance feeling secure that my endurance was headed north. I reached home exhausted and ate the regulation protein and carb meal. Late morning we headed for "Haiko Supermarket" to do some much needed weekly shopping. I came home and settled down with a "Tiger" beer (another of my favourites) while tickling Dojo under his chin who looked with doleful eyes, thoroughly enjoying the pampering:-)

Back-to-back long runs

Saturday came with a sleepless night and a stressed out feeling. I woke up at 5:30am and went out for a 2 hr run so that I could "kick-start" my liver into purging my system of the toxins it must have accumulated during my 4 days tour to South India. It is said that the stress hormone, "cortisol", can run amock if its left an open field; cholesterol, blood sugar and damage to the brains neural network is the devastation it leaves behind. The only antidote is exercise or anti-depressants: you can choose!

I felt at peace the rest of the day, taking pride in the feeling that I'd dealt "cortisol" a mighty blow:-) I enjoyed teaching Bryan that evening, while Dojo lazed around in a day long snooze. The maid tells me that Dojo feels "stressed out" when I'm not around and revels in sleeping all day on my return; secure in the knowledge that I am back for a while:-)

I deliberately set my alarm for 5:30am on sunday morning as I wanted to do "back-to-back" long runs that are advised for either Ultra-marathoners or the elite. I set out feeling quite strong (dunno what magic potion I had) and ended up doing a 2:30 mins run!!! I returned feeling rightly exhausted but had to immediately make a "burji" for Bryan and Monsoon as they felt the maid can't get it right. So there I was: stir frying onions and tomatoes with haldi; tossing in chopped chicken salami and 4 eggs; topping it with finely chopped coriander and chillies.

I sat on the floor with my share of the burji and enjoyed "carbo-loading" as advised by research. I felt sore all day as we went to "Alfa" at Vile Parle to shop and to "Aarey" wherein Monsoon could take her weekly walk, while Dojo excitedly scurried around to answer nature' call in the lush greenery; wagging his tail in appreciation at the singular honour, bestowed on him, to "fertilize" the area. I bought Bryan a "fast-track" digital watch which he proudly displayed on his wrist. He looked at my own 7 yr old digital "casio" and commented sympathetically, " Da-da your watch looks old in comparison but I think its better"; so that I don't feel too bad about it:-)

I would not advise anyone, except the most seasoned and serious runners to do "back-to-back" long runs cause they "take a lot out of you". I do hope my endurance has been "kicked up-stairs" and also that "cortisol" does not dare rear its head for another couple-a-days:-)

Jam packed weekend

I really look forward to the 2nd saturday of the month cause its the only weekend in which our company is closed for saturday. This particular weekend, I had a full diary. It started with my waking up at 5am to do a 27K run, after which I had to rush home, shower, dress, grab two omlettes with bread and head towards Powai in my car, to meet up with my friends at Colgate for an interactive session on strength and running.

At noon, my bro-in-law Joe came over to take us out for lunch. Actually he likes Bryan a lot and, Monsoon & I, simply enjoy the fall out of the "treats" he gives him:-) We had some "Chivas" while Dojo did his thing about getting "familiar". We then headed off to "Tian", a truly speciality Chinese and Japanese restaurant. We had a satiating lunch of "red pepper fish", "spare ribs", "chicken in oyster sauce" etc. Oh yes, I forgot to mention that Joe gifted us (in my opinion) the most beautiful statue of "Our Lady of Fatima". It is magnificent!!!!

Dinner on saturday, was an invitation from Rajni. Actually the dinner happened because, on Rajni' recent trip to London, she returned with a "Captain Morgan" rum, which she knows I enjoy a lot. Allen and family joined us too and we had some nice conversation with "paneer pakodas in coriander sauce"; a very unique preparation that Rajni' delicious punjabi cooking dished out. I surprised myself (as I seldom go for desserts) by opting for a "rabri with falooda", which caused me to swoon in delight with every spoonful.

Sunday evening was dinner at my sister, Lucy' place. It was a belated kind of party for both, Ian (my nephew) and me as we are born on the same day of the month. I gorged on fried sardines, pork vindaloo and pulao; not to forget the "black forest", I was told was "non-negotiable":-) All in all, one of the most hectic and gastronomically diverse weekends!

Guinness & Glycogen

I had a very satisfying long run on saturday, 5th July. As usual I felt the ache in my calves and achilles tendon as I limped around, all thru' the morning, at work. It is an established fact in sports medicine, that glycogen (carbohydrate) storage is enhanced after depleting the same thru' a long run and that, to aid the process, one is advised to eat or drink carbo-loaded foods. Well, I have my own "recipe" for this sports nutritional advice and that is beer. It has a healthy mix of water (which hydrates), carbohydrate (that restores Glycogen) and, not to forget, alcohol (that soothes the senses:-)

When I reached home from work, I quickly changed into comfortable clothes and reclined on the sofa with the world famous "Guinness". I am a self-acknowledged "Guinness freak" and this particular can that I held in my hand, was gifted to me by a dear friend; it was wrapped in a ribbon of "thoughtfulness and caring". I relished every sip as I felt the mild sting of its fizz and the bitter after-taste of hops grown in the Irish countryside, roasted on ignited peat and fermented in copper vats; releasing their special blend of organic compounds that react in complex ways to come up with a truly heavenly brew. Dojo sat at my feet with an adoring and curious look; understanding my bliss but wondering how this would compare with a "mutton paya" that he considers as "manna from heaven:-)

Bryan, Dojo & Euro 2008

I go the "blues" last evening because I had taken a very important decision in my life which involved "giving something away". I was comforted by a saying from the bible which preaches that "its better to give than receive". I felt very low as I reached home that evening. I fixed myself an "appertiff" and lay back on the bed with the TV screen flashing Euro 2008 replays but my mind in a rueful and contemplative mood.

The door bell sounded and Dojo scampered with a bark indicating that he was doing his "chowkidari". It was Bryan who had come in from his athletics training and my eyes lit up on seeing my boy. After his shower we wrestled playfully on the bed and Dojo, feeling envious, sounded a warning "woof" and jumped on us, as if indicating that either we include him in the "fight" or he'd spoil the "party":-) My "blues" vanished like darkness does when you switch on a light. We munched heartily on fried chicken and watched TV while Dojo crouched patiently with a hawkish look, ready to leap at the bone that would definitely be thrown his way

My "peace with the world" was complete when late that night I watched the enthralling "Germany v/s Portugal" quarter finals match. Though, I was a wee bit disappointed that Portugal lost because somehow I identify with them, being Goan and all (wink)!!!

Rain, running & rum

The end to my summer runs in sweltering heat was a relief. The sky was grey and there was the gentle pitter patter of rain drops on my window pane when the alarm went off at 5:30am on Sunday. I had a bad stomach (probably something I'd eaten on my long tour to Andhra) since the night before and would have probably gone back to sleep. But hey, this is Sunday and I wouldn't miss running in the rain after that long summer.

I intended to do a nice long run but my physical condition (I had the trots:-) and had to go in the bushes - pleeassse, I had my water bottle ok?) decided otherwise. However, the first 10K was really "cloud 9" and I sang;
Raindrops keep falling on my head
but that doesn't mean my eyes would soon be turning red
cryin' not for me - cause
I'm never gonna stop the rain by complaining.......because I'm free!
Nothin' worrin' me!

Well into my 14K I felt my legs go weak. Why shouldn't they? It is clear that loose motions cause dehydration and it is amazing that I managed until then. I told you - runners throw caution to the winds! Well, I wrapped it up at 17.4K cause I'm not getting any younger. I should have had the horse sense not to have started out at all! :-)

I reached home and did the usual eggs and ham breakfast. Then we went out to buy Bryan a new school bag. He had spotted a small "Man U - Cristiano Ronaldo" bag at Hypercity and had a big argument with Monsoon. The bag' size is useless for him (besides costing 1200/-!) and I too put my foot down. We got him a beautiful (by his own admission) red rucksack costing 1100/-. I reached home, looked out the window and fixed myself some rum telling myself that its a cold rainy day (wink):-) Aaahhhh! the smooth taste of "Captain Morgan" with just a hint of coke was enough to quote;
For oft when on my couch I lie
in vacant or in pensive mood
they flash upon that inward eye
which is the bliss of solitude

A 12K for the "blubber"

I was in Coimbatore on the 4th day of my business tour and found that all the "camaraderie" of the evenings was showing on my tummy. Goodness gracious! I felt the first signs of a "jiggle" in my belly when I started to jog. So off I went to the "race course", a 2.5K circuit, very thoughfully built by the "Coimbatore Municipal Corp. I began my run on the outer rim and completed a 10K in 52 mins. I got stares from all walkers (almost everyone in this small "town" wants to walk here) and - looks - as if running is an "alien" activity":-)

I ran all the way back to my hotel which made it 12K. However, the "appertiffs" in the evening cancelled whatever "energy expenditure" I had made:-) So much for reducing the "blubber" - sheeeessshhhh!!!!

Chaos!!!!!!

The 20th century had two revolutions in the physical sciences: Relativity eliminated the Newtonian illusion of absolute space and time; quantum theory eliminated the Newtonian dream of a "controllable measurement process". Chaos eliminates the La-Placian fantasy of "deterministic predictability". This my friends, is the third revolution that is underway.

I was passing thru' Hyderabad Airport and decided to stop at the book store (I can't resist one) so that I could pick something to read on the airplane. I saw this book on "Chaos" which dwelt on "order in disorder" and the mathematician in me reared its head. I picked the book up on impulse and what a decision it was! Some would think me to be a lunatic to describe something like this as "super", leave alone readabale stuff.

Chaos seems to be everywhere. A rising column of cigarette smoke breaks into wild swirls. A flag snaps back and forth in the wind. A dripping faucet goes from a steady pattern to a random one. Get the drift?? Or take for example; The basic idea of western science is that you don't have to take into account the falling of a leaf on some planet in another galaxy when you're trying to account for the motion of a billiard ball on a pool table on earth!! Still don't get it?? Try this; predicting the path and timing of the appearance of "Halley' Comet" is not a prophecy: its a fact!!! Forecasting such as the above is a science. However, meteorologists are still confounded with predictions about weather more than a week in the future (the British weather bureau has been acknowledged to be the best in predicting weather within a day or two - in fact, Britishers schedule or cancel their outdoor parties based on this!). On the gloomier side; it is why we have cyclones in Myanmar and earthquakes in China where thousands of lives and billions of money are lost. Chaos theory hopes to be the yet unexplored science of the future. Are you with me?? maybe not. I know this is the domain of the Einsteins and Newtons of the world. Well, what business do I have in enlightening you on the thrills in this science????????????

The "Susegaad" life!

The aircraft banked as it began to align for landing at Dabolim and I saw the breathtaking blue-green ocean, the palm fringed beaches and the endless coastline of golden sand. I was fortunate to encounter a Goan Taxi driver who offered me a "self-driven" car. When I found out that he spoke my dialect, I switched to rapid fire konkani. A deal was soon struck (the guy was so taken in by my ability in local lingo, that he forgot to take any form of security!) and I was driving a Baleno with Monsoon and Bryan, cruising thru' Goa' excellent roads.

We checked in at "Santiago Resorts" and went out that evening to savor Goan cuisine at "Souza Lobo". I was more then content with the "Maad" (Coconut Fenny) and I guess my eyes showed it:-) The next day we toured Panjim, Miramar, Dona Paula, Vagator and of course Calangute. Bryan got a thrill out of parasailing and cresting the waves on a high speed water scooter. Our evenings were spent at a local bar and restaurant that had a one-man "live Band" playing goan folk songs that I had to translate for Monsoon and Bryan:-)

Our routine of sleeping long hours and sumptious meals coupled with my day & night "taka-tak fenny" made us all accumulate some "blubber" around the middle:-) When we reached the airport for our departure, I realized how much I loved my beloved Goa. I fondly reminisced about the long summer vacations I spent here with my brothers and sisters when we were all at school. The football matches, bathing at the local spring, drawing well-water, eating rice soup with mango pickle, Goan wedding banquets, village feast revelry and most of all, sitting on the floor with earthen cook-ware and eating dinner together under the light of a "Petromax" (Goa did not have electricity then). I did not know of any place in the world for a vacation other than Goa. Viva Goa!

Palm Beach Resort

After a lot of flip-flops on deciding whether to go out or not last weekend, we finally made it to Manori. Bryan first went off to Pali Hill resort in Uttan as part of his summer camp ( I remembered our days when the parish used to take us all to Gorai) and we collected him from there in the evening before proceeding to Manori.

We had a nice big room for 10 people (there were 2 other couples with us) and of course the "ubiquitous Dojo" trotting around and getting in everyone' way:-) We "captured" one of 4 lofts raised on stilts that are available on first-come-first-served basis and settled with our snacks and drinks. There was a DJ that night and we "shook a leg" (especially us men after feeling invigorated with the liqour). That night, I slept fitfully because I was worried that Dojo would wake up the others (who are not used to having a dog in the same room) and the rascal thought I wanted to play with him! He periodically jumped on my bed and nibbled my toes and made me gasp everytime he dug his cold nose in my side:-) At one time, he started kicking the maid' hair clip around the room and I had to get up and wiggle a finger at him. His response? Snapping at my extended fore-finger playfully!

The next morning involved treats of beer, fish and chicken. There were pool games and I had to literally ask the owners of the resort to drain the pool inorder to get Bryan out of it! We arrived home late evening on Sunday and Dojo seemed relieved to return cause he fell off to sleep immediately, peaceful in the comfort of our home.

Daily Nutrition

I was recently introduced to a book titled "What your doctor does not know about nutritional medicine may be killing you"! The author ( a medical doctor) dwells on the diseases that invade our bodies by virtue of the fact that we ignore to take basic butrition by way of multivitamins and minerals. Yes, a balanced diet works but in todays world do we have time to allow ourselves the luxury of cooking "balanced" meals? It is an established medical fact that these "micro-nutrients" are absolutely essential for us to combat the ravages of "oxygen radicals" that latch on to myriad other compounds and cause an imbalance in our bodies. More important, many of these "free radicals" (a term known to those of you that studied science) cause "mutations" inside the cells of our body and give rise to cancer.

The book discusses at length the different conditions that afflict us today; namely, osteoporosis, arthritis, heart diseases, diabetes etc. BTW, cholesterol is not as good an indicator for your risk of getting a heart attack as compared to "homocysteine" levels. This is a well known medical fact today but a researcher was hounded in the US about 25 years back and lost his job; merely because the pharma companies at the time wanted to make a killing getting people to buy drugs for reducing cholesterol. They apologised to him now but the damage was done and the researcher rued that he had already lost 25 years of his life as an outcast in the medical community which could not be restored with such an apology.

I believe the above has a parallel in the suppression of medical fact and research on radiation from cell-phones and their deleterious effect on the brain (they say you "micro-wave" your brain in the long run). However, the cell-phone companies have down-played this matter. The same holds true for those of you that allow a cell-phone provider' tower to be placed atop your building. Beware, the radiation could be killing all of you slowly!!

Well, enough of my "dooms day" banter for now. I will probably receive some "hate mail" from the cell-phone companies now:-)

Alibag calling

On Saturday, 3rd May, I went to alibag to spend the night at Dilip Kamtikar' Bungalow based on his invitation to me and a few other Aarey Runners. The place is well-furnished with a lot of plantations around the bungalow and its right on a secluded stretch of beach. I drove down in my car with Bryan (yes, ku-ku boy wanted to be with me:-) and Pankaj Sharma. We arrived at 6:45pm and went off straight to the beach. We played a little bit of football with encouragement from Bryan, who was keen on kicking the ball around and tempted us all.

The table was set for a "tipple" and Dilip was kind enough to offer us "Black Label"! We truly enjoyed the liquor (though the snacks arrangement could have been better) and got into intense arguments on happiness, money and even death (though many indicated by their reluctance to be drawn in, that such morbid discussions are inappropriate). By the time we ate dinner, it was 12 midnight and we were truly famished.

The next morning, Bryan and I woke up at 5am! We went for a walk on the beach and enjoyed the cool day break and dipped our feet in the ice cold sea water. Bryan was keen on getting the rest of us to play a game of fooball on the beach but I guess the guys were feeling the effects of "the night before" and were more comfortable lounging around and chatting about how Dilip made his fortune in life:-). At 11:30am, Bryan, Pankaj and I bade goodbye to the rest and left for home. On the way we stopped for a bite at Macdonalds and wolfed down some burgers, which Bryan enjoys a lot. We reached home at 2:30pm after which I had a beer and snoozed. All in all, it was a nice weekend.

Self-flagellation!

Maharashtra Day is a holiday for me and I surprised myself by waking up at 5am without an alarm. I had nothing to do as Monsoon is in Leh for a company review (some MNCs really do reviews in style!) and Bryan was to go to "Water Kingdom" with his friend Shiva. I decided that I'd just do a long run. The weather was like it was last Saturday; warm and humid. I realized that doing a long run would be a tough call. Nevertheless, I set out at an easy pace. About 2 hours later, I felt sapped and wanted to stop but I trudged on cause I wanted to overcome pain. This kind of punishment was meant to help me cope with my stress! Maybe the logic beats you but its just that I felt better pushing myself physically over the brink. It made me feel that I can handle whatever crap is thrown my way.

I finished the run another 45 mins later completely drained and dehydrated. I went to the Aarey water pumping station and the attendant there seemed to recognize me. Well, I guess that running 10 yrs in this place makes one rather popular:-) I used the hose that was lying around and let loose a "high pressure fountain" on myself. Boy, the cool water felt like heaven. I walked back home shaking my head at the lunacy in my work out today.

I met Rajesh while doing my run and he was wearing a knee brace! I realized that his knee was acting up cause he had not rested it enough after the damage from his Judo fall. He tried to laugh it off but I could tell that he regreted it. The sad part was that he was walking; unable to even jog because of the pain. Well, runners never learn. They throw caution to the winds cause their motivation to run is right up there.

Whew! I made it!

After enduring months of studying in planes, trains and cars, I was delighted to receive intimation from the American Council on Exercise that I am now a Certified Fitness Professional. Well, this certification allows me to design exercise programs for strength and endurance for not only healthy populations but it licences me to deal with special populations such as those suffering from obesity, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, coronary heart diseases, muliplesclerosis and even pregnant populations.

Frankly, I did find the course content tough because it entailed knowing every bone and every major muscle in the body by location, origin, insertion and their latin names. In addition, the chapters on nutrition, injuries and pregnancy placed a substantial load on my ability to memorise - I had long lost this ability after studying to be an Engineer. Well, I could call myself a 30% doctor now - at least the course content made me feel like one:-) I was just joking; if I encounter questions that are the domain of a health care provider, my "code of conduct" requires me to refer the person to one and not "stray" into this area!

The day after

The day after my "junk miles", I set out from home early morning. Somehow, just as I knew on saturday, that I was not in form, I knew this sunday, that I was feeling strong! Well, true feelings never lie and whaddya know; I ran a 10K in 47 mins! I revelled in the comfort, speed and length of my strides:-) Also, since I had so much time on hand before I could head home for a sunday morning breakfast of eggs, chicken sausages and cheese (yes sir, you spoil yourself cause you earn these occasional sinful delights thru' running), I decided to just stroll around and savor the morning sun ( a surya namaskar was in order), acknowledge the smiles of my walker friends (who raised an eyebrow or two on seeing me doing nothing) and I literally stopped to "smell the roses".

"Junk" miles

I woke up at 5:05am with a start. Seldom do I sleep deep but this morning I was truly in the "beta waves" mode of sleep. I felt my pulse racing due to this rude awakening. I lay in the darkness contemplating on calling off my long run. Since I would never be able to go back to sleep (I am a poor sleeper), I decided to drag myself out of my bed. Even as I made myself a cup of Java, I sensed that today, my run would suffer. My resting pulse rate was surely high - I could feel it!!

I stepped out the door and lo; I could feel the weather was the worst for a run. The humidity was probably in the 80s! I started out slowly and felt my heart rate was high. As I went thru about 14K, I realized that I was going nowhere with this kinda run. I met Pankaj today after a long time and we had some conversation about our lives. I made up my mind as I ran alongside, that I would "junk" this run. I looked at my watch and it said 7:32. Well, I had intended running till 8:30 - which would be suicidal today!

I jogged back home weary and disappointed. As I had my breakfast, I consoled myself about the fact that it is always advisable to listen to your body (don't I give this advise to others as a coach? huh?) then to let it break down in some misplaced enthusiasm to "hit the training target". Good show Dan. You are practicing what you preach:-) Let me see if I can do some "blitz runs" tommorrow to make up for the lack of "training stimulus"today!!!!:-)

"Lungs" of the city being destroyed!

If you read the papers and the link below you will realize that what is obviously of benefit to all who dwell in this city, is slowly but surely being "hacked" to death. I am really really livid about such news because I run in a forest and dread to see the day they come with their bull-dozers to "take away my breath". The audacious "penal levy" of a paltry 70 paise per sq ft for raping the city makes the bile rise in my throat. Oh, how I would love to sit in judgement on such an issue and punish the builders and government officials that allowed this to happen by pronouncing that they all be hung upside down from the trees in that very forest (and whats left of it) so that they are preyed upon by the many leopards and panthers that lurk around after dark.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2171962.cms

The Monk who sold his Ferrari

Robin Sharma asks in his book, titled as above, What is it that you are searching for? Do you want to be a better father and live a more balanced, rewarding life? Is it adventure and fun that you feel you are lacking? He postulates that if doing the above will make you happy then direct all of your energy doing it. Once you are concentrating your mind power and energy on a pursuit that you love, abundance flows into your life. You will wake up every morning with a limitless reservoir of energy and enthusiasm (Gee, this is a dream!!! However, I must mention here that my dear childhood friend, Bamoo often told me that in his job the salary is a bonus!! - He is a journalist BTW). The person the author talks to says, Would'nt it be risky for me to leave my job to start searching for my overriding passion? I mean, I have a family and real obligations! Robin Sharma answers, You will have to start taking risks, shake up your life a bit. Take the road less travelled. Come out of your comfort zone!
Hmmmm, nice philosophy and worth dwelling on if things don't work out for you in your job. I love my job as operational head of an SBU but its the "nit-picking" that gets to me!!

(Abs)olute endurance!!!!

I met Rajesh while I was finishing one of my "lung searing" work outs. He was doing push-ups with his legs raised on a park bench after running approx. 4K. I went up to him and made intermittent conversation while trying to catch my breath. When I enquired about the condition of his knee (which he had severely injured in one of his Judo sparing bouts), he claimed that it was fine and fully recovered. Then, he told me something that amazed me. He claimed that his abdominal muscles (Abs) had developed enough that he could now do 500 crunches!!!!!!! Also, his aim was to reach 1000 crunches (he didn't say in what time period)!!!!!!!! Well...well...well, that, my dear friends is true muscle endurance. I expressed my amazement and congratulated him. I was getting late for work and so I bade him "Good Day". As I jogged home, I wondered about the crunches I was able to do which, with effort, would reach a mere 100 :-(

Bryan (Kuku Boy) grows up

On Sunday, Monsoon, Bryan and I set out for Linking Road. Mission? To buy Bryan his first pair of jeans (long pants). He told me on Saturday that the boys tease him cause he continues to wear shorts and that he wants a pair of Jeans. I explained to him that he looks good in a pair of shorts because he has good legs and that the guys probably envy him. He has well-developed well-formed hamstrings and calves (a result of playing football) and - "honest to God" - a pair of jeans shorts make his legs look enviable. However, I realized that he had grown up without my knowing it and wanted to look like a big boy.

We were at the "Pepe Jeans" store and I got him his first pair of jeans which did make him look rather nice. I was filled with a strange sense of emotion as I realized that he was now growing into a big boy and very soon he would be as tall as me. Although it was not on the plan, he found a "cool" looking shirt and was longingly holding it at arms length, appraising it. I asked him to try it on and - well - it would go well on his jeans so we ended up buying it. The glee in his eyes and the hug he gave me saying, "thank you da-da" (thats dad and not big brother as in Bengali) made everything worthwhile.

When I returned home, I mused about this and remembered "Fiddler on the roof", a movie that moved me 3 decades back. I can only today identify, with just how the father felt when he stood on the train station, seeing his daughter off as she planned to marry a russian peasant. He sang this melancholy song which matched the even more poignant whistle of a train in the far off distance as it puffed towards the station to take his daughter away;

Is this the little girl I carried?
Is this the little girl at play?
I don't remember growing older,
when did they?

When did she get to be a beauty?
when did she grow to be so tall?
wasn't it yesterday when they were small?

Sunrise, sunset, sunrise, sunset
quickly go the days,
seedlings turn overnight to sunflowers
blossoming even as we gaze.

Dilip Kamtikar

I have known Dilip since the last 3 years or so. We began talking when he stopped me once in mid-run and asked me as to what makes me "tick" :-) He was refering to my running at Aarey. Soon thereafter, he made me his "guru" and showered compliments whenever he achieved fitness milestones. In Jan 2007 he did his first 1/2 marathon. In jan 2008, he completed his first full marathon.

We usually only greet each other aloud as we pass by as we do not like to stop & disturb each other when running. Yesterday (sunday), I was stretching and Dilip came by. He pumped my hand beaming and told me that on 24th March he completed 50 years of age and that he had voluntarily resigned from the Directorship of 12 companies in the Goenka Group (one of them being "Le Meridien" Hotel). When I queried as to what he planned to do, he replied, "I have'nt decided yet". I envy him cause I would just love to do what he did. He told me that he has enough money, well settled children, an understanding wife and sound health. One of the things he surely plans to do (and I envy him for this too) is to do a trip of the Antarctica this December!. He informed me that he would have liked that I "condition" him for the physical demands of such an excursion. I would have loved to but I just don't have the time. He is hoping that I can join him and keeps reminding me that "its happening" and that preparations and plans are afoot!!

I bade him good-day and returned home jogging, deep in thought as to whether good fortune such as this would ever come my way.

National Park

Today the Colpal team went to National Park for a "long run". Aalok and Saurabh did 18K and finished "piece-a-cake" style. The star was Madhumita who did a 12.5K which was 50% more than her normal long run. She actually surprised me cause I was apprehensive about her making it. Deepak probably did a 14K and did well for himself considering that he had a foot pain and was advised rest by his physician. They were all thrilled (I think so) with their achievement of doing a long run amidst the sights and sounds of a real forest ie birds chirping, a cock crowing in the distance, earthy odours, green vegetation, long and winding paths and a lovely sunrise.

My dear friends, Pravin and Hirva were the second thrill for all. They hosted "post-run snacks" which comprised idlis with sambhar and chutney, biscuits, bananas, tang and chai. Everyone in their "Glycogen depleted" state, gratefully gorged on them. It was a perfect saturday for a runner; a successful long run in a beautiful forest and a meet-up with fellow runners for snacks. I felt at peace for giving my friends a hobby (hopefully they will make it one) that will carry them thru' the rest of their lives with "ease". All thats required to consummate the current "high" is a beer, which I shall fetch shortly.

A run against odds

I took leave from work on saturday because I wanted to teach math to Bryan. I went to the CP runners venue on saturday morning to find that Aalok and Madhu were diligently doing their long runs. The CP runners group is losing members as some are getting transfered and one of them is leaving the company.
I woke up on sunday morning feeling exhausted. How are you going to do your long run today? I dragged myself out of bed and decided that I'd find out for myself. I went to the run venue without an "plan" for the day, which is very unusual for me. I usually zip out on my RX 100 to a point about 1/2 km from my house because "foxie", Big show" and "Johnny" (street dogs ouside our society gate) ensure that I don't leave without get a large dose of their affection and I need to avoid this at 6:00am :-).
I meet the usual walkers and greet them. I also meet Sunil who has his head shaved because of the burial ritual for his father. I hug him and advise him to draw strength to tide over his mental state. He asks me for some used vests as the heat is troubling him nowadays. I am filled with emotion and reassure him that I will buy him 2 vests.
I am still running and the walkers have all left by now. It is 8:30 and I ask myself, "Dan, can you do another 8K?. Are you crazy?". I stare into the distance and tell myself that such an effort will provide "deliverance". I do 4K and am bent over due to heat exhaustion. I enter a buffalo shed and am greeted by the workers there who find me a familiar sight since years. They refer to me as "Fauji Bhaiya" as they think I am an army guy:-) I use their 2" hose that they use to cool down the buffaloes and turn it on myself - pure heaven!! I then step out on to the road looking like a "crow in a thunder storm". The return leg is a piece-a-cake. I am thru' now with a well achieved looooong run.
At 11am I go out to buy myself some beers and biscuits for the dogs. I give Dojo his bath with the newly gifted shampoo (on Easter) and then retire on a sofa with a well-deserved beer. I am at peace - at least for the moment.

Tribulations of my Aarey runner friends

Rajesh practices judo besides marathoning. I have cautioned him before but the worst happened. In a recent competition he took a fall and severed the cartilage in his right knee. The result is rehabilitation for 3 months!! He used to come for walks since but today I saw him jogging!! I was aghast and told him so. Well, runners can never be caged :-)

Mahesh has just returned from his month long tour with a tour operator that he works with. I compelled him to run farther than he had planned and he loved it. While on the run we spoke about his job and how he was apprehensive that he would miss out on running. He shared that after seeing me travel so much and yet adhere to my runs, he felt it was not impossible. He usually tours Himachal and I told him that there would be peripheral benefits for him as he is mostly at high altitudes. This will, over time increase the red blood cell count in his blood and thus make him a better endurance runner. He was thrilled and I told him to " just wait and see":-). He also returned a little of the money I had lent him more than 2 years back, when he wanted to study some course. He could not afford it as he comes from a lower socio-economic background. He has this undying gratitude for all these and always embarasses me by touching my feet when he meets me. He is a super runner blessed with enviable endurance.

Sunil has encountered a tragedy. His father committed suicide. Eternal rest grant unto him O lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul rest in peace. I felt very sorry to hear the news. We all plan to visit him together. Sunil too will need help to find his feet as he too is from a low socio-economic background.

Sohanlal, the nepali, is currently trying for a role in a film. He wants to arrange a fight sequence and has been practicing high karate kicks. I was amused as to whether he too was joining Rajesh:-)

I did a satisfying long run and was acompanied partly by Mahesh.

A mad scramble

Its been hectic these last couple-a-days. Bryan' school has decided to advance the school time by an hour!! This means that I have to drop him off at the bus-stop at 6am! This in turn means that both of us wake up at 5am (this is not too difficult for me).
I proceed to do some multi-tasking ie fix an egg omelette for Bryan' tiffin, prepare my cup of "java", get out my running gear, wash-up etc. This is all while Bryan takes his bath and gets dressed. To add to this, I had to "squeeze in" my run and rush to the airport as I had to leave for Ahmedabad. I reach the airport slightly winded :-) I am looking forward to a relaxed long run on sunday morning. I am also looking forward to meeting the Colpal team as I need to check on their enthusiasm.

Cleaning the cobwebs

I've returned from an exausting tour to Andhra Pradesh after 4 days. I had not run in this period as I had a dawn to dusk routine. I decided to lace up and go for a run at 11:30am. I needed to clean up the cobwebs in my mind and my body. I did not realize that the winter had gone by and summer was already on us. The heat was quite discomforting and I finished 11K with a dry mouth and a body that was feeling the first traces of "heat exhaustion".
I must remember to warn and advise all running pals to beware of going out for a late morning run. Nevertheless, I am now at home with Bryan (who is playing a video football game; England v/s Sweden:-)) and Dojo (who is curled up after his mad-hatter runs to welcome me) and of course a well-deserved beer in my hand:-)
I was tense before the run and feel much better now.

Aarey Walkers salute me

On Sunday, I attended the Annual Aarey Walking Race prize distribution ceremony. I was pleasantly surprised and well - embarassed that they felicitated me as an exemplary runner whose motivation was contagious enough that this year 21 runners from Aarey took part in the Standard Chartered Full and Half Marathon - up from 3 runners about 4 years back!

They had to further embarass me by asking me to "say a few words" - I was not prepared for this. Well I gave them a short discourse on how fitness can change their lives. They had taken part in a "walking race" and I asked them as to what prevents them from making at least one day in a week as a "race day". Why do they have to wait a year to increase their walking pace? I suggested that if they incorporate 1 min of gentle jogging in 5 mins of walking in their total 45 mins walk, they would see how it changes their lives. Maybe at the end of a year they may jog the entire 45 mins - applause.

Today, I realized that I had made an impact cause I saw a 56 yr old woman that had won first prize in her category 55 - 65 yrs and a man in his early 50s, doing the 1 min jog. They waved and told me so.

Holy name cathedral

My office has recently shifted to Colaba and right next door is the Holy Name Cathedral. Such a beautiful work of art with stained glass windows and oak panelling everywhere. I love the blissful silence wherein you can hear an echo of a foot fall. They have a mass everyday at 1:15pm and I go there in my lunch break to seek solace from the problems I am facing. I feel relaxed after my visit and return to my office with Norman Vincent Peale' thought that "if God be for us who can be against us".

I often muse about finding a way to chuck my job and take up something that will allow me to give more time to Bryan. I have spent a lot of time with him and know that I did not miss out, so far, on seeing him grow. I love mathematics and have sometimes felt that I could have taken up a professor' job in a univ. Too late Dan. I'm sure you will think of something in one of your "long runs".

A nice photo certificate

I am proud of my photo certificate (which did not come cheap BTW). This is especially because of my veteran PR. Boy, I hope I improve on it - God willing and of course job willing:-)

Colgate ups the ante

Team colgate is now gung ho about running having "tasted blood" in their first race! They are now "gunning" for a half marathon this year. They can do it cause they have what it takes - loads of motivation! I must immodestly add that I provide oodles of it to them:-) I have now decided to help them in this venture. I must make time for it and see them thru - especially Debashish and Madhumita who thought its beyond them! I am meeting them this saturday for their first lesson in "Distance Running".

Aarey runners appraisal

Mahesh (who is a 10K state level runner) called me yesterday and expressed that the 3:30 he did in the mumbai marathon could have been bettered if he had consulted me in the week before the race. Mahesh is blessed; in that he did not get a chance to train much as he has a job with a tour operator. He got some tips from me as to what to do in the month before the marathon. However, in the week before, I was too busy.

Sunil was down and out after doing his first marathon. He finds the distance intimidating. Rupesh (who I named in my report) has vowed never to do a marathon. I have to counsel these guys! I too have a fever since the last few days due to the stress of both the marathon and "other" stresses. I should not have travelled the next day - but work is work!

Rajesh and Pankaj came thru' in 4:59 and 5:01. I need to meet them to inform them (especially Rajesh) the mistakes they made.

Dojo & Destressing

It is exactly a year since we got home our then 40 day old "Daschund" - "DOJO". He is a bundle of lightening! I look forward to reaching home because he shows me "unconditional love" - scurring around the house like a maniac to show me that he is happy. We rub noses and I get a few licks on my face which are sufficient to put at rest the rotten time I am having at work. He then curls up next to me and I fix myself a shot of "Remy Martin VSOP". The bottle is fst receding and I have to make arrangements for replenishment.

"Team Colgate" makes me smile

I had trained the "Sporting Challenge" relay team for Colgate' entry in the Mumbai Marathon. Based on my own assessment as a coach, of their readiness, I had estimated their finish time for the 42km relay as 4:19 - guess what, they bloody did it in 4:07!!! Holy smoke, it means they actually "raced" with clear determination. The icing is that they placed 3rd!! I'm waiting to "high 5" them but - ahem! - don't you feel I had something to do with their win :-)

"Break" in the wall

To describe the agony of a marathon to someone who has never run it is like trying to explain color to someone who was born blind. - Jerome Drayton

The piercing “beep” of the alarm clock going off at 5am was meant to rouse me but I was lying awake, since 3am: staring in the dark with thoughts racing thru’ my mind. Dan, are you going to break free from the 4hrs+ chicken-shit times that you’ve been clocking over the last couple-a-years or what! I stood in the shower, took a deep breath and hissed, Sir, yes sir!! Ablutions – coffee – a banana – and now the check-list;

Ø Vest + race bib – check! Shoes + Timing chip – check!
Ø Stop watch + shades – check! Water bottle + dry fruits – check!

A prayer and then I step out the door. At the Mumbai Marathon race venue I meet up with Gokhale and several marathoners and pump hands wishing everyone luck. I look out for Debashish who is doing the Sporting Challenge relay, from “Colgate” but can’t find him. The marathon starts on the dot. The first few kms seem sluggish but a glance at my stop-watch tells me I’m “on pace”. At the 10K mark I’m “cruising” but am surprised to see Rupesh and Yadav (Aarey runners) breeze past me. Good-luck guys, see you at the wall! At the 23K turn-around point at Bandra reclamation, I notice this Finnish veteran (Fin-Vet) who has been with me a while. On the return path, I give a thums-up to Saurabh, Naveed and Bhasker who shouts, “Looking good Dan”.

The next 10K, “Fin-Vet” alternates between slowing down and racing ahead of me. I am now determined to put an end to his antics. I reach the 32K mark (20 miles) and I don’t feel the wall (a point at which the ones that raced too hard deplete their energy stores). Most marathoners would say that about mile 20 they pray for any help they can get. - "Saint Ralph"

At the 34K mark, I overtake Rupesh, who now has his head bowed in exhaustion. The pain has set in and I am bracing myself. “Fin-Vet” is still 25 yards ahead of me. “Heart-break hill” (Pedder road climb) coming up, brother! “Fin-Vet” is reduced to a shuffle on the steep climb and I pass by whispering “Khattum!” I crest the hill and call out to Aalok who is awaiting his turn in the corporate relay. I am dehydrated now and he can see it. He shouts “Can I get you water?” and I wave him off cause he too has a race to run.

I have 6.5K to go and a bone dry throat! Sorry Pal, but the watering stations are kept alive only for the elite! “Pox” on the organizers, I fumed. At the 38K mark I pass by Yadav who is walking! He gets pepped up on seeing me and breaks into a “canter”. I see my bro-in-law, Joe, who is pleasantly surprised to see me come in early. I am slowing down now as my blood is thickening fast. I see no km markers and agonize thru’ my pain, How much longer? Then I see it – 500m to the finish – there is this new found zip in my stride. I see my family (Monsoon & Bryan), against the barricaded corridor. I glance at my watch – 3:56 something! I race ahead ‘for I have promises to keep!’ Mayhem – dizziness - faltering step - Sambrani (from office) helps me to the medical tent - shouts for IV as my blood pressure reading is too low – I wave-off the docs concerns. Ice and Electral have me standing in 20 mins. Why do you think they serve beer after the Berlin Marathon? – so they don’t have to cope with such emergencies :-) Monsoon brings me my certificate and medal. It reads 3:57:13 (and a 5th place in the veterans category). You made it Dan!
Some medals aren't really made of gold. They're made of sweat, determination, and a hard-to-find alloy called guts. - Dan Gable