Team FatBird wishes all TFB Runners, Partners, Friends and Supporters a happening & fruitful Tiger Year.
Have a great running and healthy year ahead :)
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Saturday, February 13, 2010
Happy Tiger Year 2010
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Team FatBird wishes all TFB Runners, Partners, Friends and Supporters a happening & fruitful Tiger Year.
Have a great running and healthy year ahead :)
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Team FatBird wishes all TFB Runners, Partners, Friends and Supporters a happening & fruitful Tiger Year.
Have a great running and healthy year ahead :)
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Thursday, February 11, 2010
GongXi FaCai Runs
GongXi and FaCai is celebrating Lunar New Year 2010 with Team FatBird. Join us to usher in the Tiger year, receive blessings and well-wishes, and work off all the New Year delicacies and goodies. Click on the posters to facebook-RSVP your attendance.
Feb 18 GongXi i-Run
Feb 21 FaCai Run
Feb 18 GongXi i-RunFeb 21 FaCai RunSunday, February 7, 2010
Operation NightHawk: Pre-Ops Recce Mission 2
Field Recce Report by FatBird Anthony
It was a pre-dawn recce for one of the key night missions of Operation NightHawk 2010 - The Coastal Melody Run. 30min before first light, Team FatBird assembled 3 long-range recce elements at The Nest. A quick mission briefing later, the 3 recce teams proceeded along the Eastern Corridor at a steady pace. The Sundown Marathon will be running through this area of operations where we were supposed to recce.
As it was supposed to be a small mission, the signature of the elements were deliberately kept low, as the movement on foot were done with relative silence and in individual units. I broke away after 2km to move deeper into the objective. After 10km of 5:25min/km pace, I went onto SEAHORSE axis (Coastal Road), a 8km minor road running parallel to the major Coastal Road (a 4-lane, dual carriageway metal road with fast-moving mobile columns on both sides). The sun was already beating down on us, but with a cool breeze blowing in our direction, it made for a more comfortable advance along the 'mentally-draining' axis.
It was interesting passing a metal bridge, solid enough for the passing of iron ponies, but not large enough for vehicles. The weather was getting hot, and the mobile hydration I was carrying was depleting fast....I had to reach CP UNICORN 1 before hydration runs out. The front elements were maintaining the 5:25min/km pace, but were conservative with the adavance. 1km to the CP were Traffic Police blocks and security defences for the air rehearsals taking place in the nearby air base. After fording the passage of line, we finally reached UNICORN 1, 17km from start point. I took 1 sachet of Power Rations, topped up with H2O, and proceeded back.
SEAHORSE axis was a good metal road which provided nice shade from the harsh elements. The civilian runway on the right was a hive of activity with forces and logistics being brought in for operations support. I met the YELLOW recce team at CP 16km. They signalled for a passage through, and we gave the thumbs up and ack. YELLOW stayed behind to act as escorts for returning recce elements. It was another 7km back along SEAHORSE, before I had a signal from friendly forces to proceed. 3 iron ponies with escorts gave the clear signal....after a quick round of authentication, I proceeded on to return back to base.
The weather was a killer this morning. I had to make a number of top-up stops for refuel. The tank was running low as I proceeded to maintain the 5:25min/km pace in order to complete the 34km mission within regulation. Along the way, I reflected upon SEAHORSE axis, and how it would be like to travel along in the night. It was not long before I hit the Eastern Corridor, and 9km remained. With the low fuel tank, I tried to conserve by slowing down the pace. I decided then that we would not recce for FORD axis, as that would mean stretching the resources. With my slower pace, some of the training elements moved ahead, although with an ack before they sped up.
I focused on sustaining the pace, and with 500m to go, I could see the Training Commander welcoming us back. I was so happy to return to base (The Nest) in one piece, and with the route of the Coastal Melody Run more or less secured. Soon, the other recce teams arrived as well, all with their respective missions accomplished. After a quick de-brief and re-hydration, the final recce element BRAVO returned with a smile. BRAVO had too much fuel topped up at one of the civilian bases, and was carrying a heavy load on the run. Nonetheless, she was glad to hear that we will not be proceeding to do FORD.
As my team had a sub-task to do by noon, we bade farewell to the rest of the recce teams and headed to our team base, most satisfied with having accomplished the recce mission. Coastal Melody will be challenging with the rather long and flat axes we would have to travel along, as well as the lack of support points along the way. It would be important for all participants of Operation NightHawk to be prepared with sufficient rations and hydration for that mission.
When Dusk Cometh, The NightHawks Emerge!
Recce Element ALPHA
Distance: 34km__Time: 3hr2min__Pace: 5:23min/km
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Thursday, February 4, 2010
When Dusk Cometh, The NighHawks Emerge...
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OPERATION NIGHTHAWK 2010
The FlightZONESTM Marathon Training Program
* A 12-week program comprising of two weekday workouts and one weekend long run weekly. There will be a total of 7 weekend runs in the DAY and 5 weekend runs in the NIGHT. Workout sessions include base-building, strength and endurance.
* Experienced Runners and Pacers leading and guiding the runs
* Running Guides and Marshals showing the routes
* The FlightZONESTM Training System, incorporating heart-rate measurements and progressive paced running
* Two levels of training - beginners and experienced runners
* 3 Race Distances: Half-Marathon, Full Marathon, Ultra Marathon
* Regular emails and online postings of the weekly training plan and tips on running techniques, form and essentials
* Advisory panel of coaches and sports specialists to answer questions on running techniques, injury prevention, recovery, nutrition etc.
The Training Contributions go towards:
* Isotonic Drinks/refreshments after run
* A "OPERATION NIGHT HAWK FINISHER" training top will be made available after 6 sessions of weekend runs completed. Those who have had their training contributions waived or discounted can still purchase the good-value tee at an attractive price.
* Shoe, HR Monitor, Running Equipment trials depending on schedules
* Information and tips on Managing & Preventing Running Injuries, Running Performance, Sports Nutrition
* Special discounts on partner products like compression wear, shoes, hydration systems
* Certificates/Awards of completion
* Specially designed training bibs & Pace Bands
OPERATION NIGHTHAWK 2010
The FlightZONESTM Marathon Training Program
* A 12-week program comprising of two weekday workouts and one weekend long run weekly. There will be a total of 7 weekend runs in the DAY and 5 weekend runs in the NIGHT. Workout sessions include base-building, strength and endurance.
* Experienced Runners and Pacers leading and guiding the runs
* Running Guides and Marshals showing the routes
* The FlightZONESTM Training System, incorporating heart-rate measurements and progressive paced running
* Two levels of training - beginners and experienced runners
* 3 Race Distances: Half-Marathon, Full Marathon, Ultra Marathon
* Regular emails and online postings of the weekly training plan and tips on running techniques, form and essentials
* Advisory panel of coaches and sports specialists to answer questions on running techniques, injury prevention, recovery, nutrition etc.
The Training Contributions go towards:
* Isotonic Drinks/refreshments after run
* A "OPERATION NIGHT HAWK FINISHER" training top will be made available after 6 sessions of weekend runs completed. Those who have had their training contributions waived or discounted can still purchase the good-value tee at an attractive price.
* Shoe, HR Monitor, Running Equipment trials depending on schedules
* Information and tips on Managing & Preventing Running Injuries, Running Performance, Sports Nutrition
* Special discounts on partner products like compression wear, shoes, hydration systems
* Certificates/Awards of completion
* Specially designed training bibs & Pace Bands
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Operation NightHawk: Pre-Ops Recce Mission
.I received a call from one of the human recce elements in the morning about a slight delay. A few of us were already en-route to the Rendevous (RV) for a recce mission in support of Ops NightHawk 2010. It was supposed to be a pre-dawn insertion of a few early elements to look for all the passages and routes of what would be the longest distance in Ops NightHawk.
We finally set off just before first light, and headed towards PONY axis (Thomson Road). This is a major dual carriageway, with rather heavy movement of traffic. We had to keep within our boundaries on the pavements and walkways. As we passed The LongHouse, we saw a large assembly of iron ponies (bikers) getting ready for their rehearsals along PONY. With their helmets and colourful outfits, it is almost difficult to make out any familiar faces.
After about 4km, our small recce group turned towards Casuarina and then along the OUTR winding axis. We spotted friendly elements in the form of the aniMILES who gave us waves of acknowledgement as we pass one another along the winding passageway. The flora and fauna along the OUTR provided an aura of calm and coolness, and along the way, there were always action and movements by the groups of monkeys doing their rounds. We minded our own business, and focused on the mission at hand.
The MANDY axis (Mandai Rd) was a dual carriageway full of heavy mobile columns. We kept to the paved walkways over an undulating terrain. The sun was out in full force by then, but we kept to our bearings in front. When we reached the Crematorium check-point (CP), it was 13km. We RV'ed before proceeding forward to the Wildlife Reserves (zoo). By the time we reached the turning point into TIGER axis, leading to the zoo, it was already 16km. One of the recce commander turned back earlier for a shorter distance. Through the ups and downs to the Reserves, we finally made it to the water point (U-Turn) for a break and re-grouping. I took a packet of carb rations which provided the fuel for the rest of the mission.
The return along MANDY axis was more hilly, and coupled with the strong sunshine, that slowed the recce elements down. Instead of going further up MANDY, we did a turn towards HYDRO axis (Seletar Reservoir area) for extra cover and to minimize the signature. That would make for a good Main Supply Route (MSR) for the troops. The thick tree cover along HYDRO afforded the team with good shade, and that helped to cool our brains to some extent. The rear guard decided to branch off to a bypass, while the front guard proceeded into the HYDRO feature point and then had a quick CP break. From there, we proceeded on to RV with all the elements at the final CP at LPR.
After 30km of recce on foot in the heat, the recce force was rather drained. It was good that we had refuel of hydration, with some supplement of private rations. The final 4km back to start point was just one of focus, speed when not under the cover of shade and observation, and breakaway of the front guard. By then, PONY axis was choked with traffic, which made movement difficult. Knowing that the final CP was near, the recce force's morale was high as we put mind to matter, driving those tired legs forward to eventually complete the mission in 3.5hrs.
Back at the start point, we bumped into a few friendly forces who were doing their own rehearsals and training missions in the forest. We had a mini debrief with the group and all agreed that the 35km route would make for a good Night Mission during Operation NightHawk. Doing it at night would make the journey more bearable, as well as conditioning the troops for D-Day (Sundown). Overall, a very successful recce mission, and thanks to all recce elements who came. There will be a few more recce missions before the launch of NightHawk, and we will be activating the recce forces again soon. Meanwhile, we are at REDCON 3 Status. When Dusk Cometh, The NightHawks Emerge!
I received a call from one of the human recce elements in the morning about a slight delay. A few of us were already en-route to the Rendevous (RV) for a recce mission in support of Ops NightHawk 2010. It was supposed to be a pre-dawn insertion of a few early elements to look for all the passages and routes of what would be the longest distance in Ops NightHawk.We finally set off just before first light, and headed towards PONY axis (Thomson Road). This is a major dual carriageway, with rather heavy movement of traffic. We had to keep within our boundaries on the pavements and walkways. As we passed The LongHouse, we saw a large assembly of iron ponies (bikers) getting ready for their rehearsals along PONY. With their helmets and colourful outfits, it is almost difficult to make out any familiar faces.
After about 4km, our small recce group turned towards Casuarina and then along the OUTR winding axis. We spotted friendly elements in the form of the aniMILES who gave us waves of acknowledgement as we pass one another along the winding passageway. The flora and fauna along the OUTR provided an aura of calm and coolness, and along the way, there were always action and movements by the groups of monkeys doing their rounds. We minded our own business, and focused on the mission at hand.
The MANDY axis (Mandai Rd) was a dual carriageway full of heavy mobile columns. We kept to the paved walkways over an undulating terrain. The sun was out in full force by then, but we kept to our bearings in front. When we reached the Crematorium check-point (CP), it was 13km. We RV'ed before proceeding forward to the Wildlife Reserves (zoo). By the time we reached the turning point into TIGER axis, leading to the zoo, it was already 16km. One of the recce commander turned back earlier for a shorter distance. Through the ups and downs to the Reserves, we finally made it to the water point (U-Turn) for a break and re-grouping. I took a packet of carb rations which provided the fuel for the rest of the mission.
The return along MANDY axis was more hilly, and coupled with the strong sunshine, that slowed the recce elements down. Instead of going further up MANDY, we did a turn towards HYDRO axis (Seletar Reservoir area) for extra cover and to minimize the signature. That would make for a good Main Supply Route (MSR) for the troops. The thick tree cover along HYDRO afforded the team with good shade, and that helped to cool our brains to some extent. The rear guard decided to branch off to a bypass, while the front guard proceeded into the HYDRO feature point and then had a quick CP break. From there, we proceeded on to RV with all the elements at the final CP at LPR.
After 30km of recce on foot in the heat, the recce force was rather drained. It was good that we had refuel of hydration, with some supplement of private rations. The final 4km back to start point was just one of focus, speed when not under the cover of shade and observation, and breakaway of the front guard. By then, PONY axis was choked with traffic, which made movement difficult. Knowing that the final CP was near, the recce force's morale was high as we put mind to matter, driving those tired legs forward to eventually complete the mission in 3.5hrs.
Back at the start point, we bumped into a few friendly forces who were doing their own rehearsals and training missions in the forest. We had a mini debrief with the group and all agreed that the 35km route would make for a good Night Mission during Operation NightHawk. Doing it at night would make the journey more bearable, as well as conditioning the troops for D-Day (Sundown). Overall, a very successful recce mission, and thanks to all recce elements who came. There will be a few more recce missions before the launch of NightHawk, and we will be activating the recce forces again soon. Meanwhile, we are at REDCON 3 Status. When Dusk Cometh, The NightHawks Emerge!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Post SCSM09 Celebrations for Marathon Pacers & Sunbirds
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Team FatBird Post-SCSM Celebrations, Photography by David Ong
It was a dinner of magnetic proportions. The organizing committee comprising of FatBird members Terry, YN, Keonz, Spencer and Sunbird Trainees Rose, Cathelin, Joey, Hock Chye and various supportive FatBirds and Sunbirds worked hard to make it happen. A gathering of FatBirds, Ops Sunbird trainees and the marathon pacers to celebrate the good performances of all at the SCSM09.
Operation Sunbird was a combination of our earlier training experiences of Operation NightHawk (training program for Sundown 2008) and Operation Kingfisher (training program for AHM). The Sunbird program incorporated a very structured 10-week FlightZONES system, comprising of heart-rate training, running form and posture mechanics, along with nutrition and hydration tips, dispensed and delivered by a dedicated training team of coach, trainers and pacers.
We were heartened to see the Sunbirds, many whom were relatively new runners, progress from 10km through to completing their first half-marathon and full marathon with very respectable performances at the SCSM09. We salute their perseverance, determination and the willingness to put what they have learnt into practice, culminating in those outstanding performances at the SCSM09.
We congratulate and celebrate the successes of the Marathon Pacers. The group of 50 men and women who unselfishly sacrificed much of their weekends to undergo a 12-week intensive training program, learning pacing techniques, pace training with the SunBirds, and running with the pacees for that 3-session Run With Marathon Pacers program. The Pacers did a stellar job of bringing not only the Sunbirds, but many other SCSM09 participants to their dream and goal finishes. Accolades and compliments continued to be heaped onto the Pacers weeks after SCSM09. You can read some of them at the Marathon Pacers’ website.
Team FatBird Pacers & Sunbird Overture, courtesy Keonz Quek
The evening saw Team FatBird celebrate and had fun, to reward ourselves with some good nutrition and hydration, for the sweat, tears and good effort we have put in. We would like to take this opportunity to thank training partner Racers Toolbox, training venue partner, The PlayGround @ Big Splash, Sunbird Coach Jonathan, our Team FatBird training and support crew, our Marathon Pacers training and support crew, for making Operation Sunbird a tremendous success.
We would like to congratulate all Sunbirds and Marathon Pacers for accomplishing our SCSM09 mission. You all ROCK!
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Saturday, January 2, 2010
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FatBird Weekender: Scenic Northern New Year Run 2010
Weekender Report by FatBird Anthony
FatBird Photo Gallery by FatBird DO
Run Photography by Reuben, acleong, Joe Goh
FatBird Weekender @ Scenic Northern New Year Run 2010
Team FatBird kicked off the New Year with a combined Scenic Northern group run with The Northern Runners as part of the FatBird Weekender Run series. With the 80+ reservations for the run received, we were expecting a good turnout for this fun 16km run. It was certainly nice to meet many familiar faces, the Northern Runners, FatBird Runners, SAFRA Yishun runners, SgRunners, as well as many new faces who were joining in such runs for the first time. By 7.15am, there was a gathering of close to 100, listening attentively to the welcome by FatBird DO and the route briefing by Joe Goh.
After the customary group photo, the runners set off merrily towards Yishun Dam. That route brought back fond memories of all the scenic runs and SAFRA Time Trials held there, including various night sessions of recce runs for Sundown Marathon preparations. The Running Guides and Route Marshals were 
doing a fine job of guiding the runners, as well as explaining the sights and scenery of the area, making may of us feel like tourists on a local tour of the Northern Region...hehe....great stuff. We waited and gathered at the end of the Dam for a group photo shot, before heading for the next objective, Yishun Park. The nice thing about such fun weekenders are the non-rush format as well as the easy pace that all were running at. No one was rushing, and there was never a threat of anyone getting lost or being left behind.
The queue for the water fountain was orderly as the Park saw the descent of our large group of runners. The sun was up, but we were enjoying the cool shade of the large trees, sipping off our water bottles and hydration belts, while at the same time monkeying around and 
cheering for more runners coming in. More group photos followed, and when all had their fill, we proceeded to the Yishun Bottle Tree Park. I have been to the Sembawang Bottle Tree, but the Yishun version was new to me. I liked the serene surroundings of the pond amidst the small huts and young trees...even the bottle tree was a miniature version (compared to the larger ones in Sembawang...we should visit that one day :)) All the runners felt particularly smart as they neared the Tree Of Knowledge, with some even prancing around and caressing the tree for good measure...haha
www.bottletree.com.sg
More information download from the 'Running Guides' and well wishes amongst the runners later, we proceeded on to the final destination after the shouts of 'Huat Ah' to signal our wishes for good health, knowldege and wealth. Passing through a couple of army camps,
excitement grew as we neared the famous Hot Springs of Sembawang. Many of the residents of the Yishun and Sembawang area have heard about the Springs, but have not had the chance to visit. The marshals guided us along a walkway 
surrounded by some army facility, and before long, we were greeted with groups of people seated around taps and pails, steam emitting, with the strong smell of sulphur. Some of us immediately got down to action to soak our feet. Armed with towels, the ladies were wiping themselves with the hot spring water, supposed to cleanse and smoothen their skin....no wonder the ladies were happy.
Cathelin was getting a slapping 'massage' by the resident Shifu of the Springs, and she
seemed to be getting good results. Rose was sufficiently impressed to give it a go, and she really received hard and loud 
slaps and smacks...haha. The Sunbirds were frollicking in the pails filled with steaming hot water, screaming whenever someone got some blessings of the sulphur-smelling water. I joined in the fun, and went to work with Beverly, soaking our feet in a nice pail. The regular Springs people were happy to receive such a large crowd of enthusiastic visitors, although they looked at us with some curiosity and apprehension at first. The eggs that were carried by the 10 runners got boiled and made into breakfast for the hungry runners...I didn't get to sample the cooked eggs though....well, we shall bring more the next time ;)
Sembawang Hot Springs
We spent about 30min at the Hot Springs, before making our way back to SAFRA Yishun ClubHouse. The ladies had a real good 'spa' treatment, and some even freshen and combed their hair before leaving. Feeling so refreshed and energized, we all chatted merrily and covered the remaining 3km with ease. A total of 16km were covered in a most relaxing manner, although some excesses of the festive season were definitely dissolved, and the cardio strength would have been enhanced no doubt. A section of the runners have washed up and were already waiting at the food centre across SAFRA Yishun. After a quick wash-up, more of us went over to have our carbo-reload, occupying at least 8 tables.
We spent more time chatting about the day's adventures, and plans were already being laid 
for the next FatBird Weekender in the Eastern Trails. It will be another fun adventure to look forward to in February. The marathoners who have signed up for Sundown also got some updates from us on leveraging on the Run-Round-Singapore (RRS) and the Ops NightHawk Marathon Training Program in March...the more we shared, the more excitement built up. It was not till noon before we spilt off from the food centre.
It was a great run overall, thanks to the meticulous effort put in by Joe, Charlene and the Northern Running Group. We look forward to working with them for an even nicer and bigger run in The North, and meanwhile, the route-recceing continues...stay tuned for FatBird Weekender @ the Eastern Trails in February :)
FatBird Photo Gallery by FatBird DO
Run Photography by Reuben, acleong, Joe Goh
FatBird Weekender @ Scenic Northern New Year Run 2010Team FatBird kicked off the New Year with a combined Scenic Northern group run with The Northern Runners as part of the FatBird Weekender Run series. With the 80+ reservations for the run received, we were expecting a good turnout for this fun 16km run. It was certainly nice to meet many familiar faces, the Northern Runners, FatBird Runners, SAFRA Yishun runners, SgRunners, as well as many new faces who were joining in such runs for the first time. By 7.15am, there was a gathering of close to 100, listening attentively to the welcome by FatBird DO and the route briefing by Joe Goh.
After the customary group photo, the runners set off merrily towards Yishun Dam. That route brought back fond memories of all the scenic runs and SAFRA Time Trials held there, including various night sessions of recce runs for Sundown Marathon preparations. The Running Guides and Route Marshals were 
doing a fine job of guiding the runners, as well as explaining the sights and scenery of the area, making may of us feel like tourists on a local tour of the Northern Region...hehe....great stuff. We waited and gathered at the end of the Dam for a group photo shot, before heading for the next objective, Yishun Park. The nice thing about such fun weekenders are the non-rush format as well as the easy pace that all were running at. No one was rushing, and there was never a threat of anyone getting lost or being left behind.
The queue for the water fountain was orderly as the Park saw the descent of our large group of runners. The sun was up, but we were enjoying the cool shade of the large trees, sipping off our water bottles and hydration belts, while at the same time monkeying around and 
cheering for more runners coming in. More group photos followed, and when all had their fill, we proceeded to the Yishun Bottle Tree Park. I have been to the Sembawang Bottle Tree, but the Yishun version was new to me. I liked the serene surroundings of the pond amidst the small huts and young trees...even the bottle tree was a miniature version (compared to the larger ones in Sembawang...we should visit that one day :)) All the runners felt particularly smart as they neared the Tree Of Knowledge, with some even prancing around and caressing the tree for good measure...haha
www.bottletree.com.sgMore information download from the 'Running Guides' and well wishes amongst the runners later, we proceeded on to the final destination after the shouts of 'Huat Ah' to signal our wishes for good health, knowldege and wealth. Passing through a couple of army camps,
excitement grew as we neared the famous Hot Springs of Sembawang. Many of the residents of the Yishun and Sembawang area have heard about the Springs, but have not had the chance to visit. The marshals guided us along a walkway 
surrounded by some army facility, and before long, we were greeted with groups of people seated around taps and pails, steam emitting, with the strong smell of sulphur. Some of us immediately got down to action to soak our feet. Armed with towels, the ladies were wiping themselves with the hot spring water, supposed to cleanse and smoothen their skin....no wonder the ladies were happy.Cathelin was getting a slapping 'massage' by the resident Shifu of the Springs, and she
seemed to be getting good results. Rose was sufficiently impressed to give it a go, and she really received hard and loud 
slaps and smacks...haha. The Sunbirds were frollicking in the pails filled with steaming hot water, screaming whenever someone got some blessings of the sulphur-smelling water. I joined in the fun, and went to work with Beverly, soaking our feet in a nice pail. The regular Springs people were happy to receive such a large crowd of enthusiastic visitors, although they looked at us with some curiosity and apprehension at first. The eggs that were carried by the 10 runners got boiled and made into breakfast for the hungry runners...I didn't get to sample the cooked eggs though....well, we shall bring more the next time ;)
Sembawang Hot Springs
We spent about 30min at the Hot Springs, before making our way back to SAFRA Yishun ClubHouse. The ladies had a real good 'spa' treatment, and some even freshen and combed their hair before leaving. Feeling so refreshed and energized, we all chatted merrily and covered the remaining 3km with ease. A total of 16km were covered in a most relaxing manner, although some excesses of the festive season were definitely dissolved, and the cardio strength would have been enhanced no doubt. A section of the runners have washed up and were already waiting at the food centre across SAFRA Yishun. After a quick wash-up, more of us went over to have our carbo-reload, occupying at least 8 tables.
We spent more time chatting about the day's adventures, and plans were already being laid 
for the next FatBird Weekender in the Eastern Trails. It will be another fun adventure to look forward to in February. The marathoners who have signed up for Sundown also got some updates from us on leveraging on the Run-Round-Singapore (RRS) and the Ops NightHawk Marathon Training Program in March...the more we shared, the more excitement built up. It was not till noon before we spilt off from the food centre.
It was a great run overall, thanks to the meticulous effort put in by Joe, Charlene and the Northern Running Group. We look forward to working with them for an even nicer and bigger run in The North, and meanwhile, the route-recceing continues...stay tuned for FatBird Weekender @ the Eastern Trails in February :)
Friday, December 25, 2009
FatBird Weekender: Northern New Year Run
The Northern Runners together with Team FatBird are happy to usher in the New Year with a joint effort to bring you the ‘Scenic Northern Twenty-O-Ten New Year Fun Run’.This fun-filled and festive run will bring us to three of the most interesting locations up in the North. Join us to celebrate an exciting 2010 in this special New Year Fun Run!
Register your interest at teamfatbird@gmail.com with Subject: FatBird Weekender 2010-01 (Northern Run), name, contact no. OR click attending at the facebook event page .
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Nike Run Club SG: Finale 2009
Nike Run Club Dec 16, FatBird Photo Gallery
It was a fitting finale on a high note for the year at the Nike Run Club SG @ Nike's Flagship Store, Wisma Atria. What started out as a City Run in April 2009 has seen many runners join the fortnightly 5km runs along Orchard Road and into the sprawling grounds of The Botanic Gardens. Team FatBird who has led the runs, along with organizers Racers Toolbox and Nike Singapore, has witnessed many new runners join the 5km runs, interspersed with walks, and progressing to 10km races, half-marathons and even full marathons.
The pre-run briefings and post-run refreshments of iced cold milo, 100-plus, Subway sandwiches and cookies have been key motivators for the running enthusiasts to put in good workouts to relieve stress and get those blood pumping through the tired bodies after a long day at work or school. With the final Nike Run SG accomplished in cool weather, attended by a good turnout in a festive setting, we can bid 2009 a cheerful goodbye and in the words of the Nike spokeperson, "look forward to the new year for even bigger and possibly more exciting Nike Run Club SG" in 2010. 3 Cheers for Nike Run Club SG...Hip Hip Hooray!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009
Race Report by FatBird Anthony
Photography @ FatBird Gallery by FatBird DO
SPORTS ACTION by Byron fb (Part 1), MaxAng fb, Byron fb (Part 2)
Marathon Pacers & Sunbirds gather before the race
It was a day of reckoning and excitement for the Team FatBird Marathon Pacers, Ops Sunbird participants, and the Marathon Pacees. The SCSM09 full marathon, half marathon and quarter marathon was what we have all been training for the past 10-12 weeks, and this was the day when many maiden marathoners would be born, and records would tumble like ten pins.
Team FatBird, with the support of various sponsors and supporters, have been preparing for this ‘mother of all Singapore Marathons’ and we are glad we delivered, and even exceeded expectations in many aspects of the training and race. A morning assembly of 3.30am had us pumping up balloons and putting up timing bibs and pace bands. When the Sunbirds arrived at 4am, we had some group photos before making final prep to move to the start line. As the Pacers walked into the starting pens with their Pacees, it seemed like we were going in for some ‘big’ fight and we could hear whispers and discussions about ‘these are the pacers….there, follow the 5:00h group’, etc.
As we moved into position, our balloons made us identifiable from afar, and soon more runners approached the various teams to ‘fall in’. Unfortunately, some of the teams’ balloons could not pass through due to communications breakdown, and that made it more difficult for the late comers to spot the Pacers.
The weather was cool and nice, and felt like the sort of race that records would be broken. While waiting and chatting with fellow runners and friends, the horn just started out of the blue. However, all was calm, as we made our way out of the pens and onto the roads. I saw many familiar faces, those that have followed the 4:00h Pace Group in past years, as well as the new runners who have joined us for training in 2009. As it was race time, we avoided chatting too much to conserve energy and instead focused on the goal in front.
The first 10km was covered in an average of 5:35min/km. Like the other Pacer groups, there was a large following for the 4:00h Pace Group. With the many simultaneous footfalls in tandem, it sounded like we were moving at break-neck speed….hehe. The spirits were high and all were sufficiently charged up. FatBirds Keonz, YN, Spencer were leading, with Darren in the middle, and Anthony sweeping and shouting out lap timings at regular intervals. The balloons on us made it easier to spot the group running, and that attracted more to join in.
The 4:00h group of runners were pretty consistent, and most were able to sustain the pace. Those who occasionally slowed down were quick to find their footing and moved up in step. Shouts and encouragement came from groups who were running past, but without the balloons, I couldn’t really make out some of our Pacer Groups. The weather remained cool as we kept up the pace. Keonz and YN were maintaining the pace very well, allowing the body and the rear guard to just support and keep up. We maintained 5:34min/km till 21km, and that played well to our Optimal Pace Strategy. There were some runners who by then decided to slow down a tad, and dropped back to my spot, about 50m behind the lead.
It was pretty smooth going as we exit from Fort Road onto Mountbatten. Then we hit into the human wall of 21km runners converging near the Kallang area. We had to weave our way in and out, and that was when we lost some of the Pacees. A few runners were checking with me if we were still on pace. I told them to try to gain a little speed, albeit difficult in those conditions. Keonz/YN were able to maintain their lead position as we turned in the F1 Pitstop for the final 3km. The crowd was still thick, as we slowed the pace further with jogs and attempts to get at the water stations.
There were various shouts from friends taking photos in the midst of the ‘thick’ wall of runners. The final 2km was spent telling others to move ahead to finish below 4hr, as well as telling the other runners to make way. With 500m to go, it was 3:58h. I urged the remaining runners to push harder towards Parliament House, as I took occasional glances to the side to see if there were others making the final mark. The 4:00h Pace Group finished with the runners from 3:58h – 4:03h gun time. That would have allowed a number of runners to do their sub-4hr (nett time) as was evident by the appreciative hand-shakes and comments at and after the finish line.
We collected our finisher tops and medals, before moving to the New Balance Hospitality Tent for our team massage. I made my way back up to 200m of the finish to cheer the other Pace Groups and runners returning. I was heartened to see that all Team FatBird Marathon Pacers brought runners of their respective timing groups across to the finish with 3min of their target completion. There were indeed many happy Sunbirds (TFB’s Marathon Trainees), and many have done very good sub-5hr and 4hr+ timings for their maiden marathons. Congratulations go out to the 21km and 10km Sunbirds for their very good finishes too. After our massages, we moved on to the Tan Kim Seng Fountain for the gathering of all finishers. Happy chatter and congratulatory messages abound, spiced up with group photos and choreographed moves of the Sunbirds and Pacers.
The day’s event was topped with the completion of Sunbird SC Lim, with the companionship of Pacer Mohan, in an outstanding effort of just 7hours for a first time marathon for a veteran runner with diabetic conditions; simply amazing. The whole Team FatBird and Runners are so proud of SC and Mohan. Lots of 
handshakes and photos later, all were just happy to go back for a good rub-down and rest, before putting down their plans for the next marathon, and of course, more training runs. Many will wait in anticipation of the Certificate Of Completion to print their completion times on the very nice finisher top.
With the completion of the SCSM09, Team FatBird has accomplished one of its major training for marathoners and special training for marathon pacers. We will definitely be looking at the past 3 months’ of activities to fine tune and develop even better training and preparation programs for races in 2010. In summary, we are glad to have delivered on Team FatBird Marathon Pacers’ philosophy of Follow Our Pace, Win Your Race!
.
Photography @ FatBird Gallery by FatBird DO
SPORTS ACTION by Byron fb (Part 1), MaxAng fb, Byron fb (Part 2)
Marathon Pacers & Sunbirds gather before the raceIt was a day of reckoning and excitement for the Team FatBird Marathon Pacers, Ops Sunbird participants, and the Marathon Pacees. The SCSM09 full marathon, half marathon and quarter marathon was what we have all been training for the past 10-12 weeks, and this was the day when many maiden marathoners would be born, and records would tumble like ten pins.
Team FatBird, with the support of various sponsors and supporters, have been preparing for this ‘mother of all Singapore Marathons’ and we are glad we delivered, and even exceeded expectations in many aspects of the training and race. A morning assembly of 3.30am had us pumping up balloons and putting up timing bibs and pace bands. When the Sunbirds arrived at 4am, we had some group photos before making final prep to move to the start line. As the Pacers walked into the starting pens with their Pacees, it seemed like we were going in for some ‘big’ fight and we could hear whispers and discussions about ‘these are the pacers….there, follow the 5:00h group’, etc.
As we moved into position, our balloons made us identifiable from afar, and soon more runners approached the various teams to ‘fall in’. Unfortunately, some of the teams’ balloons could not pass through due to communications breakdown, and that made it more difficult for the late comers to spot the Pacers.
The weather was cool and nice, and felt like the sort of race that records would be broken. While waiting and chatting with fellow runners and friends, the horn just started out of the blue. However, all was calm, as we made our way out of the pens and onto the roads. I saw many familiar faces, those that have followed the 4:00h Pace Group in past years, as well as the new runners who have joined us for training in 2009. As it was race time, we avoided chatting too much to conserve energy and instead focused on the goal in front.
The first 10km was covered in an average of 5:35min/km. Like the other Pacer groups, there was a large following for the 4:00h Pace Group. With the many simultaneous footfalls in tandem, it sounded like we were moving at break-neck speed….hehe. The spirits were high and all were sufficiently charged up. FatBirds Keonz, YN, Spencer were leading, with Darren in the middle, and Anthony sweeping and shouting out lap timings at regular intervals. The balloons on us made it easier to spot the group running, and that attracted more to join in.
The 4:00h group of runners were pretty consistent, and most were able to sustain the pace. Those who occasionally slowed down were quick to find their footing and moved up in step. Shouts and encouragement came from groups who were running past, but without the balloons, I couldn’t really make out some of our Pacer Groups. The weather remained cool as we kept up the pace. Keonz and YN were maintaining the pace very well, allowing the body and the rear guard to just support and keep up. We maintained 5:34min/km till 21km, and that played well to our Optimal Pace Strategy. There were some runners who by then decided to slow down a tad, and dropped back to my spot, about 50m behind the lead.
It was pretty smooth going as we exit from Fort Road onto Mountbatten. Then we hit into the human wall of 21km runners converging near the Kallang area. We had to weave our way in and out, and that was when we lost some of the Pacees. A few runners were checking with me if we were still on pace. I told them to try to gain a little speed, albeit difficult in those conditions. Keonz/YN were able to maintain their lead position as we turned in the F1 Pitstop for the final 3km. The crowd was still thick, as we slowed the pace further with jogs and attempts to get at the water stations.
There were various shouts from friends taking photos in the midst of the ‘thick’ wall of runners. The final 2km was spent telling others to move ahead to finish below 4hr, as well as telling the other runners to make way. With 500m to go, it was 3:58h. I urged the remaining runners to push harder towards Parliament House, as I took occasional glances to the side to see if there were others making the final mark. The 4:00h Pace Group finished with the runners from 3:58h – 4:03h gun time. That would have allowed a number of runners to do their sub-4hr (nett time) as was evident by the appreciative hand-shakes and comments at and after the finish line.
We collected our finisher tops and medals, before moving to the New Balance Hospitality Tent for our team massage. I made my way back up to 200m of the finish to cheer the other Pace Groups and runners returning. I was heartened to see that all Team FatBird Marathon Pacers brought runners of their respective timing groups across to the finish with 3min of their target completion. There were indeed many happy Sunbirds (TFB’s Marathon Trainees), and many have done very good sub-5hr and 4hr+ timings for their maiden marathons. Congratulations go out to the 21km and 10km Sunbirds for their very good finishes too. After our massages, we moved on to the Tan Kim Seng Fountain for the gathering of all finishers. Happy chatter and congratulatory messages abound, spiced up with group photos and choreographed moves of the Sunbirds and Pacers.
The day’s event was topped with the completion of Sunbird SC Lim, with the companionship of Pacer Mohan, in an outstanding effort of just 7hours for a first time marathon for a veteran runner with diabetic conditions; simply amazing. The whole Team FatBird and Runners are so proud of SC and Mohan. Lots of 
handshakes and photos later, all were just happy to go back for a good rub-down and rest, before putting down their plans for the next marathon, and of course, more training runs. Many will wait in anticipation of the Certificate Of Completion to print their completion times on the very nice finisher top.With the completion of the SCSM09, Team FatBird has accomplished one of its major training for marathoners and special training for marathon pacers. We will definitely be looking at the past 3 months’ of activities to fine tune and develop even better training and preparation programs for races in 2010. In summary, we are glad to have delivered on Team FatBird Marathon Pacers’ philosophy of Follow Our Pace, Win Your Race!
.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
SCSM09 Special: Marathon Pacers feature
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Straits Times SCSM09 Special Supplement: Wednesday, 2 Dec 2009
Straits Times SCSM09 Special Supplement: Wednesday, 2 Dec 2009.
Know Your Pacer, Recognize The Face;
Follow The Pace, Ace Your Race!
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Know Your Pacer, Recognize The Face;
Follow The Pace, Ace Your Race!
Click on the Poster for their individual profiles!
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Running For A Cause: The Champion
SCSM09 Running For A Cause Champion, Mohan, has brought his contributions garnered for the SCSM09 Run-For-A-Cause (RFAC) to more than $20,000. Since our last report, Mohan has gone on to do many more overseas marathons, in the midst of collecting pledged contributions for RFAC, and at the same time found effort to research and plan for pacing with a Sunbird (Team FatBird Marathon Trainee) going for his maiden full marathon at SCSM09.
We would like to once again salute this good friend of Team FatBird for his tireless quest to achieve his 100-marathon milestone, while playing an important role in Running For Charity.
Straits Times SCSM09 Special Supplement: Wednesday, 2 Dec 2009
We would like to once again salute this good friend of Team FatBird for his tireless quest to achieve his 100-marathon milestone, while playing an important role in Running For Charity.
Straits Times SCSM09 Special Supplement: Wednesday, 2 Dec 2009
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