-- First Three Verses of Surah Baqara --
The Beginning of the Book (10.1 Miles) -- 12/03/17
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Friday 12/01/17 -- Aarey, to the jct
Mileage: (3.86 M - 6.21 Km) x 2 = 7.7 Miles - 12.4 Km
Time: 1:17:24
Pace: 10'03"/mile
Wght: 71.5 kg - 157.6 lbs
Feeling great, easy recovery. Mild pleasant temperature, easy run.
Yesterday night, wonderful love. The magic pills are helping.
Have started learning The Beginning of the Book.
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Sunday 12/03/17 --
Powai Police - Larsen Toubro - Aarey - Jct: 0:36:31
Railway Station Laxmi Studio Road, to the end: 0:14:21
Back same way: 0:51:44
Time: 1:42:36
Mileage: 10.1 Miles - 16.3 Km
Pace: 10'09" / mile
Weight: 71.8 kg - 158.3 lbs
Very pleasant, feeling once more incredibly comfortable.
Mild temperature, with a little wind. Out around 6:40.
Want to complete Friday's run, on the "road to the right"
for the second time. For some reason, I have been able
to relax into the pace very well, especially as the run
progresses, finding a comfortable stride. There are
people here, although it mostly clears after the Studio.
With no fog, I can this time see some of the dwelling
that sprout here and there in the hills and jungle.
Like last time, I reach the place with the cows, a herd
of imposing black cows, two of which are fighting. I ask
a man if the road continues. Turns out the road is right
there, but one would have to "jumping karna" over a small
wall. Well, I tell him that "main jumping nahi karounga",
and head back. (It turns out it would have been a shortcut,
and exploring that road that leads to Royal Palms is very
high on my list). It's amazing that this distance, which
would have felt challenging a month ago, today feels like
nothing at all. I should find some other half marathon
to capitalize on my unhoped for good condition.
I have started learning the first verses of the prestigious
Surah Baqara, progressing rapidly as the words feel familiar.
I have completed three verses, which should allow me to pray
entirely from the big Surah in Namaaz. In fact, I do just that
later in Zohar ki Namaaz.
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Reaching Marol (10.5 Miles) -- 12/08/17
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Friday 12/08/17 --
Powai Lake - Saki Vihar - Aarey - Jct: 0:35:02
Left - Under JVLR - To Pipeline / Marol: 0:07:34 (4.5 M - 7.25 Km)
Back same way - Slight detour on Trail -
Callalily back gate: 0:41:40 (4.5 M - 7.3 Km)
Mileage: 9 Miles - 14.5 Km
Time: 1:24:16
Pace: 9'22"/mile
Wght: 71.8 kg - 158.3 lbs
A great morning! On this Friday, start reading Surah Taubah
and pray full Surah Yaseen, according to my personal tradition.
Weather has returned to normal, a pleasantly cool morning with
a light fog. This puts me in the mood for the Aarey area, where
I explore yet another possibility. At the junction, I turn to the left.
This is a wide yet rural road, with some foot traffic, labourers
etc. I very quickly reach the JVLR which this roads goes under,
and to my surprise, soon after, the Pipeline Jct that I had explored
before. I have already reached Marol, very close to work! (In
fact, looking later at the map, I realize I was within a few meters
and could easily have completed the way).
I return peacefully, feeling once again very good once warmed up,
picking up the pace till the end. All along, I have been rehearsing
Surah Baqara, adding yet another Aayat.
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Saturday 12/09/17 --
Home Gym: 0:54:00
Sequence: Abs - Push-ups - Prone Lift - Biceps - Bar Shoulders - Squats.
Weight: 71.6 kg - 157.8 lbs
After a night where I woke up twice (2 and 4am) to review work on the
last episode of Troll-Hunters. And yet we're still not finished!
But I feel great in the morning, after having slept another short
while, with a dream, Madeleine as a child in water ???
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Sunday 12/10/17 -- Marol in the Fog
Powai Police - Lake - Saki Vihar - Aarey - Jct: 0:37:34
Left - Under JVLR - Marol - Along Pipeline to 88 Pictures: 0:11:42
Back to Jct: 0:12:07
Back to Nahar: 0:36:32
Time: 1:37:54
Mileage: 10.5 Miles - 16.15 Km
Pace: 9'19"/mile
Weight: 71.8 kg - 158.3 lbs
Determined to complete Friday's unfinished run.
Woke up from repeated dreams of not being able to catch a plane!
Foggy morning, hotter than I would have thought, as if heat
trapped by the mist. Very easy relaxed pace, effortless, roads
now familiar. Progressing rapidly in Surah Baqara, some verses
very similar to already known. Two bottles, water gatorade.
And so resume exploration, past the JVLR, and for the first
time last stretch along the pipeline. And I was right, soon
I see the overpass by the Masjid, here I am, have reached
work this way in about 50 minutes, a perfect way!
Uneventful return, feeling good and easy, it's extraordinary,
the rolling hills of Aarey really relax my pace, un even alternance
of effort and rest which suits me particularly well, and I finish
strong. Luckily, Ruksanna is still in bed, her day.
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-- The first Ruku of Surah Baqara --
The First Ruku (8.05 Miles) -- 12/16/17
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 12/13/17 -- Tempo Run
Khairani Rd. - Jagruti Nagar - Ghatkopar - R City - Jct: 0:27:10
[3.12M - 5.02Km] [Pace: 8'42"/mile]
Hiranandani Hill - Through Hiranandani - D-Mart: 0:29:14
[3.38M - 5.43Km] [Pace: 8'39"/mile]
Time: 0:56:25
Mileage: 6.5 Miles - 10.45 Km
Pace: 8'40"/mile
Weight: 72.1 kg - 159 lbs
Another full night work, awakened at 2:00 then again at 5:30 (surprisingly
slept till then). But this is worthless, frustrating ...
Feel good nonetheless, headache, but shake everything off with energy.
And embark on a run that soon transforms in a good tempo run,
able once again to relax into a meaningful stride, especially late in the run,
and this in spite of climbing the "Hiranandani Hill".
AND almost unintentionally, I was able to learn the last Aayat of the Surah
Baqara 1st Ruku. This provides a new scheme for Namaaz: Fajr with Surah
Baqarah, Zohar with Surah al-Imraan, staying within the beginning of the Book.
Finished reading surah taubah.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 12/14/17 -- The First Ruku
D-Mart Shortcut - Chandivali rd. - Saki Vihar - Way to Work -
Military Rd - Marol Maroshi Rd - to Pipeline: 0:30:14
Along the Pipeline - Aarey - Saki Vihar - Powai Police -
D-Mart - Back Gate: 0:30:34
Time: 1:00:49
Mileage: 6.75 Miles - 10.9 Km
Pace: 9'00"/mile
Weight: 71.7 kg - 158.1 lbs
A Fabulous Run !!
I wake up fresh after many wake-ups through the night, but able
to fall back asleep every time. Started reading Surah Yunus, and
the "Full Baqarah" Namaaz new system.
I set out at 6:37, still a bit dark, but first light breaks soon. Not
wanting to repeat, I randomly decide to follow my commute road
to work, the trafic luckily light at this early hour. But there is where
comes the innovation of the day: I continue straight through Marol,
thinking I'll join the Pipeline - Aarey junction, and indeed, with great
satisfaction, I soon recognize the place. I don't want to run too long
either, but an on the moment inspiration makes me consider returning
along the pipeline. After a few strides, I hesitate, what if the road was
dangerous? Could there be bad dogs, or are the slums safe? I pause
for a second, but decide against these objections, and resume the run.
What a wonderful morning! My stride is so easy and comfortable,
completely effortless as it often is after a faster run. I'm not sure
what it is that I am so blessed with great running these days, a
new wind. As it turns out, the road along the pipeline is peaceful
and beautiful, the air is fresh and a little misty, and noone, man
or animal, bothers me at all, it's a beautiful quiet morning.
I finish the run amazed at my fluidity, so easy in my stride.
And all the way, I have confirmed that last verse, I now master
the First Ruku of Surah Baqara, a fantastic way to open the day
in Namaaz, and complete Fajr entirely within the big Surah.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 12/16/17 --
Powai Lake - Saki Vihar through Park - NW Park: 0:20:33 [2.25M - 3.61KM]
Back through same - Along the lake and its parks - IIT Main Gate:
0:27:49 [2.94M - 4.73KM]
Through IIT Market - Vidya - Hiranandani Hospital - SM Shetty route:
0:26:29 [2.84M - 4.57KM]
Time: 1:14:51
Mileage: 8.05 Miles - 12.9 Km
Pace: 9'18"/mile
Weight: 71.7 kg - 158.1 lbs
Yesterday's missed opportunities! Yesterday missed masjid even,
and could not pray!
Dynamique du peche. Ce n'est pas qu'on ne peut resister,
c'est qu'on ne veut plus resister!
Le Syndrome du du Pere Noel.
Ruksanna et la parole du Qur'an, je lui explique que le livre
ne dit que peu.
Work. Fight it aside, baqara Namaaz. Finished reading Surah Yunus.
Ruksanna does not wake up. Out, the banks of the lake. Back pain.
But the run is great, as it has been this period. A slightly hazy,
yet another picture
of the lake, this time with a boat.
Through the "laughing yoga" group.
Couples making out. How different is Mumbai!
Up through the Vidya area, comfortable.
The verses.
Preparation for a party, will distract from the walk. First,
she's scared, says tears will come to her eyes, she shouldn't go,
but like a girl I convince her, and she has to try clothes immediately,
leaving everything else. Je ne veux pas te causer de peine, mais
tu me manques le matin ...
So the next day I'll hurry back, but she is already up making tea.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Another sunrise on Lake Powai --
-- The cemetery in KRPuram where Ruksanna's mother was buried --
No stell marks the exact location,
as the poor's tombs are re-used every year
Church on the Hill, or Back from the Funeral (8.65 Miles) -- 12/25/17
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Monday 12/25/17 --
Powai Police - IIT - to Western Expressway: 0:38:24
Back - Detour up the hill to St Paul & St Joseph Church: 0:14:38
Back IIT - Padmavati Devi Marg - Vidya - Hiranandani - Back
via SM Shetty School: 0:28:31
Time: 1:21:34
Mileage: 8.65 Miles - 13.9 Km
Pace: 9'25"/mile
Weight: 72.3 kg - 159.4 kg
Following an impromptu weekend in Bangalore, following the death of Akbar,
Vahida's husband.
Due to nascent back pain, and this abrupt change of plans, I have
not run at all last week. But this morning, feeling good and very
rested, embark on this, not quite sure how far I'll go. But soon
resolve to push to the Western Expressway (for the second time),
as an urban variant to Aarey. A rare barking dog threatens me, but
I discipline it as easily as I would have in Bangalore, HEEEYY!!.
And people smile here too.
It's a beautiful somewhat cool morning (but not as fresh as
Bangalore), hazy sunshine coloring the
lanscape (although this could be largely pollution), a think layer
over the marshes by the freeway. Somewhere along a dirt trail, isolated,
a man sits in meditation facing this small urban splendor.
I have wondered if that hill with a church would be accessible, and
how the view would be from there. Well, sticking to the left side of
the road on the way back, the opportunity presents itself, which I seize
even though I don't want to prolong this run much. Through a small
alley bordered with slum houses, I quickly reach the esplanade of
the church, which indeed opens a view on the sprawling city and
its freeways, an Indian version of Los Angeles, all bathed in orange
haze.
From there, an easy way back home through the IIT Market area,
by Vidya, now a familiar route, where I don't garner much attention.
My run is again comfortable, breathing completely relaxed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Shazia and Nazia at the Beach --
Alibag Beach (6 Miles) -- 12/27/17
Alibag, from our stay on Madwad rd to Alibag and back.
Time: 0:56:47
Estimated Pace: 9'30"/mile
Estimated Mileage: 6 Miles
We have come to Alibag to spend a couple days at the beach.
In the morning, I set out on a run.
Concerned about the dogs, I stay on the main road, rather than trying to
reach the ocean. And I am right, the dogs here feel very aggressive, some
running after me, fortunately at a distance. I’m a little worried wondering
how i’ll return if it gets worse, but still reach the little town, eventually
turning back without reaching any specific destination. This beat up dusty and
polluted road is not particularly scenic anyway. Luckily, on the way back, the
dogs stay quiet, perhaps because activity has picked up a bit, or because they
no longer see me as a threat.
But the stay will otherwise be great. Later in the day, we go to
Kihim beach, more scenic than yesterday's Versoli beach, and spend a
good part of the day there, playing in sand and water, a first for the
children.
The Beautiful Road (12 Miles) -- 12/30/17
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Friday 12/29/17 --
Home Gym: 0:39:40
Sequence: Bar Press - Abs - Punches.
Weight: 72.3 kg - 159.4 lbs
Was going to run, but since Ruksanna wants to walk, I decide to take
her to the lake Promenade, going through the various shoreline parks.
After returning home is when I do this gym session.
No news from my parents, they haven't sent a message upon reaching
Ushuaia as agreed. Not cause for undue alarm, but still.
Finished reading Surah Ibrahim, followed by a deep Surah Yaseen. I will
go to Masjid today, on the way to work (for just an hour).
There, after a successful Namaaz which builds on the success on the morning,
a silly incident happens, as if to taint the day slightly. I can't find
my Chapal at first, near where the men with the cloth are asking for
charity. I finally find them slightly further, wear and proceed to leave.
But walking to work, I realize that one shoe's strap has come off. These
are not my shoes! Not sure it would be appropriate to walk back,
I keep going, half amused half concerned about the small incident.
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Saturday 12/30/17 --
Powai Lake - Saki Vihar - Aarey - 2nd Junction: 0:45:52 [4.48M - 7.21K]
Around that area: Road to the extreme left (Laxmi Rd) - to Downhill
to the right, then back -
Then further ahead, slight left at the fork (Hostel Rd) -
Past New Zealand Hostel -
to small cross-road, and back: 0:27:02 [3.08M - 4.95K]
Back: 0:45:31
Time: 1:58:25
Mileage: 12 Miles - 19.4 Km (could be less)
Pace: 9'52"/mile (could be slower)
Weight: 71.9 kg - 158.5 lbs
Most likely the last run of the year.
Up around 5, I read Surah al-Hijr in one sitting, then the four parts
of Surah Baqarah in Namaaz.
But silly problem, I have not been able to find good coffee here, and today,
also out of Nescafe, I feel imperfectly woken up, a semi foggy state which
really infuriates me. Unlike yesterday, it is out of the question to abandon
my plans, and Ruksanna understands it well, lets me go out. I'll make today
a long run, firmly set on Aarey.
I take a deliberately slow pace. It's cool and pleasant, perhaps a little
smoky from winter pollution. I push to the second intersection where I've
decided to try out some new explorations.
First, I take the road to the extreme left. This doesn't seem to be favored
by runners, in fact, I mostly meet labourers (including a group waiting in
front of a large Poultry facility), then after a sharp turn come out onto
a downhill leading to a slummy area with many dogs. In fact, a pack of dogs
is chasing a lone pig at full speed, a sight that pushes me to turn back.
I am not as adventurous as in the old days.
Back on the road, I push ahead again, past the Lotus lake which is now
completely dry. Then at the fork, I take a left. This is a very nice
road, well paved, which lazily climbs to nice views of the mountains,
before reaching a building "New Zealand Hostel", by where people play
various sports. There are small roads or trails on the sides which would
be worth exploring, but for today, I continue a bit ahead, then stop to
turn back at some small intersection, saving the temptation of exploring
further for some other day.
I once again feel wonderfully comfortable all the way back, taking the time
to revise all four parts of Surah Baqara, then Surah Waqi'ah in full (which
tends to slip my memory in Namaaz). I increase my cadence in the hills,
well within my limits, and finish my Gatorade bottle which has colored
my tongue blue. When I come back, Ruksanna is sitting on the mat, beautiful,
having herself come back from her morning walk. I've missed her during
these two hours. Yesterday, we went to the dentist finally, and I dearly hope
the old illness will not be back.
The Slum to Royal Palms (7.9 Miles) -- 01/04/18
Powai Police - Saki Vihar - Aarey Road - To Royal Palms Intersection: 0:29:50
Royal Palms Road - a little beyond Royal Palms Entrance: 0:09:14
Back same way: 0:38:19
Time: 1:17:24
Mileage: 7.9 Miles - 12.75 Km
Pace: 9'48"/mile
Weight: 72.4 kg - 159.6 lbs (another example of "weight creep",
difficult to control)
Not feeling particularly good after waking up at 5. It's silly, but this time,
we've bought expensive Starbucks coffee, but the girl has ground it
way too thick (impossible to buy a grinder in India!!), so this too doesn't
quite work, the coffee feels once again too weak.
I completed great Surah Nah'l yesterday, started Surah Isra, and in Namaaz,
an unusual combo of all Mulk and two parts of Yaseen. Ruksanna does not
wake up this morning, not wanting to send the children to school for fear
of further unrest in town.
I leave around 6:45. Yesterday the city was perturbed by Dalit riots,
which paralyzed particularly the Powai area. In the morning, the Saki
Vihar by Larsen & Toubro still bares traces of the violence, a long series
of piles of broken glass, that from a distance looks like old piles of snow.
The morning feels quiet, but I don't know if it's wise to run near the slums
today.
I feel slightly tired, slightly dizzy. But as if to shake it off,
at the Royal
Palms intersection, I make a "dramatic" decision: I finally (and suddenly)
veer off onto the small road, venturing into this exploration that I've been
long postponing. That is sure to shake off the cobwebs!
The road turns into a downhill that descends into slums, as Google Map
indicated. It is indeed somewhat intimidating here, but all fine. Small shacks,
farm animals, rickshaws... I soon think I recognize the wall that I had once
been encouraged to jump from the other side, and behind the large
black cows. A dog comes to me but I soon calm him down, more playful
then anything, and other dogs don't pay heed. Beyond the slum, it gets
more rural before reaching an open barrier that says Royal Palms. Not sure
what landmark to find beyond that, I soon turn back. I am saluted a couple
times along the way, to some topi wearing men I answer assalam walaikum
but later wonder whether they were Muslim at all.
Indeed, this intimidating exploration has completely woken me up.
Intervals (8.05 Miles) -- 01/06/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 01/06/18 -- Intervals
To Powai Police Stn - Lake: 0:11:17
Interval I (Singing Fountain Park to IIT Main Gate):
Time 9'04" - Mileage 1.18 - Pace 7'41"/mile
Rest (to E. Gate and Back): 0:05:67
Interval II (back): Unknown, assume 9'04"
Interval III (Park to IIT Gate):
Time 9'16" - Mileage 1.18 - Pace 7'51"/mile
Rest (through IIT Market, Hiranandani): 11:38:00
Interval IV (Overpass 4 to Overpass 2):
Time 5'38" - 0.71 Miles - Pace 7'53"/mile
Total Time: 1:12:00 (approx)
Mileage: (1.18*3) + 0.71 + 3.8 = 8.05 Miles
Weight: 71.6 kg - 157.8 lbs
Yesterday another mini meltdown!
What oh what can be causing this misery !!???
Dizziness, exhaustion, a worthless day at work, and on top of that,
I renounce going to Masjid, trying to sleep which I fail at, horrible!
And forced to participate in a crew meeting in this horrendous state!
Come home, cancel dentist, and sleep.
What oh what can be causing this !!????
In the morning, try to re-group. Even Namaaz has taken a hit. Finish
reading Surah Isra (and start Kahf), and revive Muzzammil in Namaaz.
Then attempt this speed session, as if to force myself back into life!
I'm starting to feel good on the second interval, but as I'm reaching
the park back, I realize that my chrono has turned itself off!! Argh,
the curse continues!!!
This seems ridiculous, and after a new moment of discouragement, I
decide I will not be brought down, muster courage for more. The 3rd
interval feels pretty good, but I am surprised that my time has
increased slightly. Thinking I've had enough, I proceed to return
via the small streets of IIT Market (near Vidya an important
gathering of children), but a little later decide to attempt
one last shorter interval. This too ends up a little slower to
my surprise.
Anyway, it's a start. I need to repeat this more regularly.
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Sunday 01/07/18 -- Powai Run
Hiranandani via SM Shetty - IIT Market - JVLR - Powai Police Stn.
Mileage: 5.3 Miles - 8.5 Km
Time: 0:47:53
Pace: 9'02"/mile
Weight: 71.9 kg - 158.5 lbs
I wake-up around 6:30, but hazy again, much to my frustration.
I've inexplicably lost momentum towards faith, yesterday I skipped
all but Fajr ki Namaaz, and my Qur'an reading (surah Kahf) reads hollow
(I fear the tedium and repetitiveness of the "middle Surahs"), and no
desire for Namaaz even in the morning. I once again try to set out on
a run to "shake the cobwebs", in spite of yesterday's hard session.
It's later than usual, but ok on a Sunday.
In fact, I soon discover that there is a major organised run in Powai,
and most of Hiranandani is blocked. As usual, 98% of the people seem
to be walking, I alone, outside of the race, am running! I escape
this for a time through the Vidya area. Near Powai Police Station,
a group of policemen applaud me as if I was part of the race.
After coming back, I mimick for Ruksanna India's style of racing,
and she laughs heartily.
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To Work, and more Intervals (6.95 Miles) -- 01/09/18
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Tuesday 01/09/18 -- To Work
Commute route to work (via DMart - Pipeline - Military rd)
Mileage: 3.3 Miles - 5.3 Km
Time: 0:30:28
Pace: 9'14"/mile
Weight: 71.6 kg - 157.8 lbs
Commute to work, a first!
The Baobab anim launch at 7:30 makes me leave home at 6:30,
feeling energized, but it is dark! The first part is a little unpleasant.
But otherwise, successful. I have left enough time for cooldown
before the meeting, good thing especially since my plans for obtaining
a desk fan have not materialized. But otherwise, my organisation has
paid off.
It would be of course much nicer to commute through Aarey, but there
wasn't enough daylight time for that.
Finished reading Surah Kahf.
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Wednesday 01/10/18 -- Speed Training
Powai Police, to Lake: 0:12:58
INTERVAL I, Singing Park to IIT Main Gate:
9'20".18 minutes - 1.16 Miles - 8'03"/mile
Rest, to E. Gate and back: 0:05:36
INTERVAL II, IIT Main Gate to Singing Park:
9'08".33 minutes - 1.16 Miles - 7'52"/mile
Rest, to Mid Park: 0:05:41
INTERVAL III, Mid Park to Esplanade:
7'07".67 minutes - 4,827ft 1.47km 0.914ml - 7'47"/mile
Back: 0:11:02
Time: 1:00:54
Mileage: 6.95 Miles - 11.15 Km
Pace: 8'46"/mile
Weight: 72 kg - 158.7 lbs
Up at 4:40, but feeling good again these last few days.
Therefore decided to repeat speed training, in spite of an 8 o'clock
meeting. Overall satisfying. Energy has returned.
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Man and Woman (9.65 Miles) -- 01/14/18
-- From Surah Al-A'raaf --
-- "It is he who has created you from one soul, and therefrom
did make his mate that he might take rest in her" --
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Thursday 01/11/18 -- Surah al-A'raaf
Powai Police - Lake Esplanade and Back - IIT last gate - Through
IIT market, circuitous route - Back.
Time: 1:04:44
Mileage: 6.6 Miles - 10.6 Km
Pace: 9'48"/mile
Weight: 72.2 kg - 159.2 lbs
Finished reading Surah Maryama.
A deliberately slow very relaxed run, after yesterday's speed session,
especially since that may have caused a slight back pain.
But this runs feels *great*! So easy and smooth, and so I take the
opportunity to advance once again in learning the Qur'an: Today,
I begin the last Ruku of Surah al-A'araf, which starts beautifully
with words about the couple, an homage of sorts to our love.
Yesterday, I received the new WagonR, and surprised Ruksanna
with it. Unfortunately, this was a little tainted by horrendous traffic
completely clogging the Chandivali area. This morning, I expect
better roads leaving at 8, but here it goes again, just outside
our complex has been tied into another inextricable knot!!
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Sunday 01/14/18 -- Man and Woman
Khairani Rd. - Saki Naka - Marol Naka - Makawana Rd Shortcut -
Military Rd. - Marol Maroshi - Vijay Nagar Bridge: 0:31:34
Along Pipeline - Straight to Aarey Jct: 0:11:42
To Laxmi Studio and back: 0:16:10
Back via Aarey - Powai Police Station: 0:38:27
Time: 1:37:54
Mileage: 9.65 Miles - 15.55 Km
Pace: 10'09"/mile
Weight: 71.6 kg - 157.8 lbs
People leaving the Masjid, then a church, open to the street.
New way, shortcut, I was right, familiar military rd.
A tiny puppy runs with me along the Pipeline, amusing a Rickshaw driver.
Aarey, familiar exercise. Cricket in the field, rising sun.
Through Aarey, hailed, man does "WFT?" expression, friendly or hostile?
Still hard to read. And later, a couple street kids run with me, then
run again to board a moving bus, only to jump a few yards later. But
they don't engage me again.
And finally, a large crowd at the Lake Park. Sankranti?
This has been another great relaxed run, concluding a good week.
I have continued to learn Surah Al A'raaf, the first verse exemplifying
our love, and am happy to find Ruksanna barely rising when I come back,
and we spend time together, fulfilled in our love. India, running,
Kadugodi, it was written, wasn't it?
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Morning Cricket in Aarey --
Commute through Aarey (5 Miles) -- 01/16/18
Powai Police - Aarey - Jct, to the left - Along Pipeline - 88.
Time: 0:49:09
Mileage: 5 Miles - 8.05 Km
Pace: 9'50"/mile
Weight: 72.4 kg - 159.6 lbs (Frustrating!!)
First time commuting through Aarey, which has seemed like the best
route on paper. And indeed it is!
I do have to leave at 6:40, a little before first daylight (a little
treacherous). But then, even though I'm slightly apprehensive
of going through the Passpoli slum, I make it through very
quietly and at an easy pace, in spite of more bus traffic than
I would like. And it gets even better into Aarey where as usual
many people are walking, and traffic hasn't picked up much yet.
Overall, in spite of a poor night's sleep in anticipation of tonight's
travel, a satisfying run.
I finished reading Surah Hajj before the interruption of the trip.
Not happy about this weight gain, and this just before the trip,
knowing that weight will be very hard to control. It gets harder
with age.
-- Le long du Canal St Martin --
PARIS, Canal St Martin et Butte Montmartre (8.8 Miles) -- 01/19/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 01/18/18 -- IN PARIS -- Canal St Martin.
Royal Cardinal - Jussieu - Jardin des Plantes - Austerlitz - Bastille -
Blvd Richard Lenoir - Canal St Martin - Quai de Jemmapes - Quai de
Valmy - Jaures : 0:38:25
Blvd de la Chappelle - Stalingrad - Faubourg St Denis - Rue St Denis -
Sebastopol - Rue du Renard - Hotel de Ville - Notre Dame: 0:33:41
Time: 1:12:06
Mileage: 7.45 Miles - 11.95 Km
Pace: 9'40"/mile
Froid. Habillement adequat. Le beau canal. Moins connu. Mais de retour,
helas par la rue St Denis, indemne. Une bourrasque.
J'aurais cru plus long.
-- Péniches sur la Seine en Crue --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 01/19/18 -- IN PARIS -- Butte Montmartre
Royal Cardinal - Blvd Henri IV - Blvd Richard Lenoir - Canal St Martin -
Quai de Valmy - Jaures: 0:31:52
Blvd de la Villette - Stalingrad - La Chapelle - Rue Polonceau -
Rue Muller - Square St Michel - Sacre Coeur: 0:15:44
Place du Tertre - Rue Lepic - Moulin Rouge - Rue Blanche -
Trinite - Rue de la Chaussee d'Antin - Rue Joubert -
Palais Garnier - Av. de L'Opera - Palais Royal - Louvre -
Pont des Arts - Les Quais - Retour: 0:40:49
Mileage: 8.8 Miles - 14.1 Km
Time: 1:28:26
Pace: 10'03"/mile
Similar, with the goal of pushing to Sacre Coeur.
Les rues inconnues. Le Paris des reves.
La butte Montmartre. Les pompiers exercice.
The way down, la rue Lepic. Ou donc la Place Clichy?
Trinite, je me souviens confusement. Eh oui, et je fais le detour
par la Rue Joubert, mais il n'y a heureusment rien.
-- Exercices sur la Butte Montmartre --
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 01/20/18 -- IN PARIS -- Jardin des Plantes
Time: 0:53:42
Estimated Pace: 9'40"/mile
Estimated Mileage: 5.5 Miles
Sous la pluie. A more moderate run, recovering from previous, and the
weather is rainy and cold. Laps around the Jardin des Plantes, I spend
the time learning Surah Al-A'raaf. I see my father walking to Shul from
a distance.
Yesterday, went to Jummah ki Namaaz a la mosque de Paris. Unexpectedly large
crowd, and excellent arabic namaaz.
Then evening was the ceremony for my mother's Ordre du Merite.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Madeleine and Terra at the mouth of the Smith River --
CRESCENT CITY, Along the Ocean to Pt St George (8.7 Miles) -- 01/25/18
Thursday 01/25/18 -- CRESCENT CITY
Classic run, from Penny Saver to Pt St George: 0:47:10
And back same way: 0:45:25
Time: 1:32:36
Mileage: 8.7 Miles
Pace: 10'38"/mile
After violent stormy night, a clearing in the morning, so I go out.
Full clothes again - a good choice. Some rain soon dissipates. Voice
of the seals, big splashes, the rising light. Calf not so bad, learn
to "run on my heels" to mitigate. A view of the far away coast.
On the way back, a rainy cloud over the ocean. Soon enough, I complete
the run under an exhilirating mini-deluge of rain and hail.
Today, leave Crescent City for San Francisco.
Drive to San Francisco, which takes 7 hours. Some snow on the way!
NEW SHOES
-- Gathering Storm --
SAN FRANCISCO, To Fort Point (8.1 Miles) -- 01/28/18
Sunday 01/28/18 --
Hotel to Fort Point.
Time: 1:26:37
Mileage: 8.1 Miles - 13 Km
Pace: 10'41"/mile
Woke up fine (although usual 3am sleepless-ness) but a bad run, low
energy, anger until perhaps the last 4th. Yesterday frustrating evening
with Milind Siddhie and DN Sir, where we eat very very poorly (and little)
which probably explains my lack of strength. Plus I get irritated at some
off-hand comments about Jews.
Nevertheless, it's a beautiful clear morning, with rising sunlight on the
Golden Gate. I continue to learn Surah Al-A'raaf.
-- Along the ascent in Griffith Park --
LOS ANGELES, to the Hollywood Sign (11.55 Miles) -- 02/01/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 01/30/18 -- LOS ANGELES
Amarano - Forest Lawn - Griffith Park: 0:31:43
Loop up the hill in Griffith Park: 0:40:35
Back: 0:30:28
Time: 1:42:46
Estimated Pace: 10'00"/mile
Estimated Mileage: 10.3 Miles
From Amarano, but trail to Hollywood elusive. Forest Lawn a dissapointment, fast moving trafic. But once in Griffith Park, alone, pleasant climb. Coyotes, deers, and started to feel really good. Pleasant temperature.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 02/01/18 -- Griffith Park, to Hollywood Sign
Base to Jct: 0:43:08
To Hollywood Sign: 0:26:22
Back to Jct: 0:21:43
Back down: 0:27:16
Time: 1:58:29
Mileage: 11.55 Miles - 18.55 Km
Pace: 10'15"/mile
In spite of crisis at home with Nazia. But adamantly stick to the plan.
THis is a classic run that does not disappoint.
Progressing in Surah A'raaf.
-- From the Hollywood Sign --
-- From the Wisdom Tree --
LOS ANGELES, The Wisdom Tree (8.5 Miles) -- 02/02/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 02/02/18 -- Mt Burbank
Amarano - Forest Lawn - Useless exploration by the Electric Line -
Back - Barham - Hollywood Lake - Wonder View: 0:46:15
Trail to Wisdom Tree / Mt Burbank: 0:12:13
Back to Hotel: 0:29:00
Time: 1:27:28
Estimated Pace: 10'15"/mile
Estimated Mileage: 8.5 Miles
Strange dead-end at the powerline trail. Return.
Up Barham. Explore Hollywood Lake, "no access" signs.
But there it is, wonderful hike up the peak, Northern Access
I have found. Other hikers. In spite of caution, finish on
a beautiful run, fulfilling my exploration of the Northern route.
Tonight, back to Paris.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back (9.55 Miles) -- 02/11/18
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 02/09/18 -- Home Gym + Tempo Run
Home Gym: 0:25:37
Sequence: Abs - PushUps - Abs - Shoulders - Punch Combos - Biceps.
----------
Tempo Run:
Powai Police - Along Lake - IIT E. Gate: 0:23:52 [2.64M - 4.26K - 9'01"/mile]
Padmavati Devi Marg - JVLR - Orchard - LakeHomes: 0:16:02
[2.02M - 3.25K - 7'56"/mile]
Back: 0:06:02 [0.7M - 1.12K]
Time: 0:45:56
Mileage: 5.36 Miles - 8.63 Km
Pace: 8'34"/mile
----------
Overall Time: 1:11:32
Weight: 73.1 kg - 161.1 lbs
----------
I wake up to a horrible anger in the morning, impossible to dissipate.
It's a confluence
of things: Ruksanna tried to wake me up from my exhaustion around midnight, then
in the morning I discovered bad emails from work, the evening commute has been
horrible (and unavoidable) in Mumbai traffic, the morning coffee is disgusting (why
oh why is it so hard to find coffee in this country??),
and my increasing weight just
about kills me. And finally, as I nevertheless get ready
to read further into Surah Nur,
Ruksanna calls me on the phone. Perhaps it's just as well,
as my awful state of mind
would have led to a poor reading anyway.
She realizes that I sadly need to isolate myself
(which further sours my mood), and
lets me be. I have to do something! So embark on a "double",
gym followed by a run.
I eventually pray Surah Yaseen as goes my personal tradition on Friday,
which allows
me to muster some energy, although at times the remaining anger causes me to
punch myself! And this carries into the run, which eventually
turns out into a sustained
tempo run. The relatively good times give me something to be happy about, before
embarking on another traffic choked drive to work, after a prolonged hug with
Ruksanna.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 02/11/18 --
Khairani Road - Saki Naka - Marol Naka - Airport Rd. - JB Nagar: 0:25:11
Towards MIDC - Lost, Explore Dead End - Seepz - Back to 88: 0:19:55
Back via Aarey Jct (Small detour to JVLR) - Aarey - Powai Lake: 0:50:19
Time: 1:35:25
Estimated Pace: 10'00"/mile
Estimated Mileage: 9.55 Miles
Weight: 72.7 kg - 160.3 lbs
After yesterday's dramatic meltdown, have slept a lot, get up around 5,
read Surah Furqan after having completed great Surah Nur yesterday (which
I might attempt to learn soon). Then Namaaz.
I'm not sure how to handle the fallout of yesterday's collapse. These
crisis frighten me, and I wonder if one of them will end up getting
the better of me some day. How much will be too much to handle? But as
usual, I decide this morning to "run if off". This will turn out to be a
great decision.
I start at a relaxed pace, a little later so it's daylight. I form the
original idea of trying a longer route to MIDC along the metro line,
exploring the way. I actually push past the Airport rd station to
JB Nagar, hoping to find a clear road to the left. I do indeed turn
left, but actually get lost and disoriented. I explore a promising
road to the left, which eventually borders a hill slum then dead-ends.
Having retraced my steps, I soon find myself much to my surprise at
Seepz, the JVLR ahead of me. What??? Well, at least I know where I am.
Back on familiar routes, I complete the run through Aarey, with only
a small detour up the steps to the JVLR to see where it emerges. I
continue to put together the various connections.
I finish the run in great comfort, rehearsing Surah A'raaf all along
the way, furthering my knowledge without adding another verse. It's
a clear morning, none of the heavy haze from earlier this week.
When I come back, Ruksanna is luckily still in bed, this will be her
day I decide, to make up for my dramatic extinction yesterday.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Progress so far on Surah Al-A'raaf --
In the Morning and in the Evening (10.05 Miles) -- 02/15/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 02/13/18 --
Chandivali Rd. - SM Shetty - Orchard Rd. - JVLR - IIT -
To Eastern Express Highway: 0:38:51
Back - Padmavati Devi Marg - Vidya Route - Hiranandani -
Nature Basket - JVLR - Small Streets - Lake Homes -
Back: 0:43:05
Time: 1:21:57
Mileage: 8.8 Miles - 14.15 Km
Pace: 9'18"/mile
Weight: 73.1 kg - 161.1 lbs
Woke up too early at 4:30 and regret it. Reading Surah
Shu'araa, somewhat inferior Surah. Try to fall back asleep
in vain, realizing the time left before Adhan.
That said, the run ends up being pretty good. Another clear
fresh morning, and feeling increasingly relaxed with the miles.
Finish well.
Yesterday, we went to Kokilaben. The results are good, the
PSA has dropped to 0.05 as was hoped for. No further treatment
and continued monitoring every three months. I asked about
Ruksanna also.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 02/15/18 -- Commute to Work, morning and evening.
--------
Morning:
Chandivali Rd - SM Shetty - Powai Lake - Saki Vihar -
Aarey - Jct - Marol - 88 Pictures.
Mileage: 5.75 Miles - 9.25 Km
Time: 0:53:46
Pace: 9'21"/mile
--------
Evening:
88 Pictures - Along the Pipeline - Aarey - Saki Vihar -
Lake Homes.
Mileage: 4.3 Miles - 6.9 Km
Time: 0:39:35
Pace: 9'12"/mile
--------
Overall:
Time: 1:33:23
Mileage: 10.05 Miles - 16.15 Km
Pace: 9'17"/mile
Weight: 72.8 kg - 160.5 lbs
Woke up at 4, difficult to sleep back, but miraculously drove
myself into a glimpse of dream which cleared my brain!
The day is good after that, good Baqarah Namaaz, and
good run (which I try to lengthen a little closer to an hour).
Psychologically, having a weight in the 72 range is also
much better than 73.
As usual, the dark start is a challenge, but clears to a
comfortable pace with daylight. Learning Surah A'raaf.
Funnily, I keep milk in one of my bottles because I have
forgotten to keep it at work for morning cereal.
I have this crazy idea that I might come back running too.
Partly, it's that the traffic has been beyond horrendous,
and finding an auto in the evening will be challenging.
But it's also of course the thrill of trying something new.
The main difficulty though would be lighting.
There is no lighting in the Aarey area, and I'm not sure
what the evening traffic will be there. I imagine running
at the light of my phone? Dubious ...
Meetings are dragging on, so that idea is waning. But then
I unexpectedly get done for the day, and realize it's still
light outside. So back on plan!
I leave around 6:30pm. Running is laborious, and the air
feels heavy, warm and polluted, but I still manage. Passing
by, I realize the pipeline road, free of traffic, will be
perfect since it's still daylight. There are indeed many
walkers there (mostly labourers). Strangely, the road has
been paved new, and the pipeline itself has been decorated
with photographs, animals, monuments ...
Night sets in as I reach Powai, where the traffic is more
painful, but I still finish ok, weaving through.
Wonder if this will become a tradition?
Funnily, the next morning,
I get completely stuck on the way to work on Military road, taking
a full 1 hour 10 minutes !! Luckily I now listen to the Qur'an in the car.
What a calamitous failure these cities ...
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Sun rising over Royal Palms --
Tributaries of Aarey (11.2 Miles) -- 02/18/18
Powai Lake - Saki Vihar - Aarey - Past Jct - 2nd Road to the right -
Past Aarey Garden - Royal Palms Rd: 0:55:52 [5.65M - 9.09K]
Back via Aarey Road: 0:53:33 [5.57M - 8.96K]
Time: 1:49:24
Mileage: 11.2 Miles - 18.05 Km
Pace: 9'46"/mile
Weight: 72.3 kg - 159.4 lbs
Excellent Run!!
Yesterday, we went to get race packages in Dadar. I drove myself,
and found the place easily, without too many bottlenecks. There,
we walked around the neighborhood, reaching the ocean, sat there
watching men play with their horses and dogs. Peace.
This morning, I feel great. Very comfortable run, easy breathing,
relaxed stride, pleasant morning temperature. In an inspiration,
I turn in a road to the right, furthering my exploration of the area.
These are nice rolling hills, much calmer than the main road, and
offer nice views of the rising sun over the ominous buildings of
Royal Palms, through the openings of broad trees. I stop to take
photos and talk to a guy there who's impressed that I've run here
from Powai. I take pleasure in the fluidity of my Hindi, that too
feels easy.
Return route is uneventful, feeling good, I push the pace into
Chandivali.
This concludes a big week: 4h45 of running (in three runs), and an
additional 2h30 of gym, for a total of over 7 hours. Now, taper a
bit before next weekend's big run. AND my weight back under control!
-- Sun rising over Royal Palms --
-- Powai Lake Morning --
A Good Taper, then an Unbelievable Mistake (5.2 Miles) -- 02/25/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 02/22/18 --
Powai Lake - IIT Main Gate - Back - Behind Hakone Park -
Hiranandani - Galleria - To JVLR - Lake Homes - Chandivali.
Mileage: 5.2 Miles - 8.4 Km
Time: 0:48:27
Pace: 9'15"/mile
Weight: 72.3 kg - 159.4 lbs
Have not been feeling very well. Mostly, it's a diffuse stomach
pain for a few days, and then mouth pain, and foot pain from
sitting in Namaaz. None are serious, but make for a somewhat
uncomfortable evening and night.
This run is mediocre. In spite of this satisfying weight, I feel
heavy and awkward, having lost the spring of these last days,
augmented again by the necessary taper before Sunday which
hampers motivation a bit.
That said, I still finish this ok, reverting halfway to rehearsing
Surah Al-A'raaf.
I'm developing a concerning aversion to driving. Yesterday,
a near accident with a motorbike, the guy stops right in front of me to block me
and gets down to yell at me, rightfully so, as I apoligize sheepishly
in Hindi for simply not having seen him. Luckily not serious at all,
but it has just increased
my near-phobia of the commute, and I wonder if the horrendous
relentless threat of the trafic is what will eventually cause my
failure in Mumbai.
Perhaps I should revert back to walking, although that too
has been awful. I dream of a life where every act of life would be walkable,
and wonder how one could re-invent a society to function that way.
What to do?
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 02/23/18 --
Same exact route as yesterday.
Mileage: 5.2 Miles - 8.35 Km
Time: 0:46:20
Pace: 8'55"/mile
Weight: 72 kg - 158.7 lbs (Well Done !!)
Feeling much better today!
The usual sleep pattern, wake up around 4, but able to lapse back
in somnolence till 5. Wake up rested!
I finish reading Surah Rum (excellent) followed by my traditional
Surah Yaseen Namaaz on a Friday (also excellent). My Namaaz
ability seems to have picked up again in strength since returning
from US, across all prayers. Intend to strengthen still.
The run is the same as yesterday, that length feeling absolutely
right during taper. It's a foggier and somewhat warmer morning,
slowly creeping towards summer. My stomach pain has subsided,
so my stride feels much lighter and more agile than yesterday (in
fact, my pace will be surprisingly fast, to the point where I doubt
if the distance from Google is correct). People on the lake, one,
whose picture I take, seemingly in prayer in front of the expanse
of water whose fog seems to lead to the great empty. My state
of mind exactly.
I continue to rehearse Surah Al-A'raaf.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 02/24/18 --
Weight: 71.6 kg - 157.8 lbs
I feel like a boxer who just made his weight before the fight :)
Read Surah Luqman.
Yesterday evening commute: Seepz ka rasta so stuck that I can't
even turn into it, I turn back via Military road, to get again
completely stuck on Vihar Saki, stuck stuck stuck. Time, well over
an hour! Too tired for Namaaz, even on this Jumaah ka din.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 02/25/18 -- BNP 25K, Sanjay Gandhi National Park -
Weight: 71.7 kg - 158.1 lbs
Day of the BNP 25K, in Sanjay Gandhi National Park -
We wake up at 4. I am soon reassured to feel fresh in spite of
not really sleeping since 3, in anticipation of the day.
We get ready, and take Ola around
5 as planned. I have long anticipated this, and feel ready, nervous,
but ready.
Approaching the National Park, even the driver has difficulty
finding the right road in this mess, and we ask a few times. We then get
stuck in stopped traffic, just like in daylight, because of
all the road work. Yesterday, this 40 minute drive was indicating
over 1h30! We do reach still ahead of time.
I'm surprised to not see a crowd of people like us wearing hideous
event Jerseys. There are people going in, but none with traces
of the race. And actually, the guard stops us, even orders us
outside, this is for people with permits, the park otherwise
opens at 7:30. We insist that the race organizers must have
made some special arrangement, but have to wait outside.
We are soon joined by a young man who has also come for the
race. The guard is getting irritated by our protest, shows us outside
again. The young man calls the race organiser. Meanwhile,
another guard, perhaps a supervisor, has arrived. Marathon
kal ho gaya, he declares, soon confirmed on the phone.
It takes a beat to digest. The race was ..... Saturday .... not ....
Sunday ???... We have missed it ?!!! Absolutely unbelievable, how
could I possibly have made such a mistake. The race was
yesterday! I check the flyer which indeed indicates Saturday February 24,
but firmly convinced it would be on Sunday, I hadn't even bothered to look!
My stomach in a knot, I visualize the promise of the day,
the two hill climbs, my near perfect condition, the
incredible anticipation - and understand I need to urgently
chase those thoughts.
The young man - fat and unfit, saying he has signed
up for the 50k, but clearly not ready - approaches me in confidence:
"I'm talking to the organizer, if you want, I can still try
to obtain medals for us". I shoo him away.
And spend the rest of the day trying my best to digest this astonishing
disappointment...
Luckily, Ruksanna has decided not to dwell on this.
As soon as we're home, having removed the hideous t-shirts,
she ushers me into a long brisk walk around Powai
Lake and Hiranandani Gardens. At least we're together,
which we wouldn't have been on the race, and she is loving the day.
I can barely keep up with her "business pace".
We eventually sit on a peaceful
lawn in Hiranandani, the breeze, the smell of grass, and a cat offer us
a delicious souvenir of nature.
We'll go to Elaruvi for Ramzan ...
------------------------------------------------------------------------
After the Missed Race (9.4 Miles) -- 02/26/18
Powai Police - Saki Vihar - Aarey - 2nd Junction: 0:42:16
Past New Zealand Hostel - to T-Intersection: 0:13:33 [5.94M - 9.56K]
Return - Right @ Jct to Marol - 88 Pictures: 0:34:22 [3.48M - 5.6K]
Mileage: 9.4 Miles - 15.15 Km
Time: 1:31:11
Pace: 9'42"/mile
Weight: 71.1 kg - 156.7 lbs
Still reeling from yesterday's unbelievable fiasco, I've decided to do
a "revenge" run today. Returning a bit late yesterday night
from the Black Panther screening, I wake up around 6,
and set out later than usual.
I have read Surah Sajdah, prayed Baqarah Namaaz, and
then Ruksanna comes lie with me during my hurried stretching session,
and we stay there some time. Tired, she has decided to not send kids
to school today, and is already planning on the same next week!
I nevertheless leave at 7:10, later than predicted, but still wanting
to run semi-long. The mood is somewhat reminiscent of the
missed Terrible Two, and the replacement hike to Black
Mountain that I had done the first year, although this is the
first time I miss a race by showing up on the wrong day! I
persuade myself that there is comedy in this.
The run is good, but not as great as you'd expect from thinking
I am in race shape. The weather is gradually warming up, although
still a far cry from what I imagine the summer will be. At the 2nd
junction is where it gets interesting, as I push further past the
New Zealand Hostel than I previously had. This is a very nice
road of rolling hills, quiet and traffic free,
through forest, fields, and cow barns, which
appears to be a runner favorite, and there is more in this area
to explore. In fact, I realize the obvious idea that it would be great
to park here on weekdays, run the area, than drive to work, by-passing
traffic altogether.
I reach work in ok time and shape, but not great. My weight loss now
seems to precipitate too fast, beyond what I had intended. Still, this
is good. I am starting to make distant plans for the Mumbai Marathon,
almost a year away. Perhaps I'll even yield to technology and get a
running app? That would break a big taboo, but I am considering
working more earnestly on my speed. I have concluded that I need
new goals.
A few days later, I do try to download a popular running app.
But for some reason, the thing doesn't let me properly log in, so
after several failed attempts, I give up and delete the thing from
my phone. I take it as a sign from Allah that I should stick to my
creed in the natural method, not yield to technology,
and will not bring this up again. Good!
-- At the Finish --
Malad Half Marathon (11.5 Miles) -- 03/04/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 03/04/18 -- Malad Fight For Cerebral Palsy Half Marathon
Time: 1:37:18
Mileage: 11.5 Miles - 18.55 Km (According to Google)
Pace: 8'26"/mile
Weight: 71.4 kg - 157.4 lbs
Ruksanna's weight yesterday: 59.5 kg
(These times are complete BS ...)
I suscribed to this run in an impulse to redeem last week's
fiasco. But it has unfortunately been thoroughly so disorganized
that, till late last evening, I didn't think we would participate,
having received no information about the location and time of the
run. (We by the way spent a wonderful Saturday yesterday in the
Uttan area, by the ocean). Finally, after many missed calls and
messages, I got a response, and here we are.
But the same theme continues in the morning, as we struggle
in dark deserted roads to find the start. But here we are finally,
Ruksanna running the 10K will leave a little later.
The route is not marked at all, and the helpers, if any, have
no clue. Where to turn, how many times to run, nahi maloum, or
one says this the other says that. For some time, I'm running
along side a young man, but his breathing gets increasingly
choppy, till before the midway point, he drops out. I also notice
a Bhai dressed like a Hazrat, strangely running bare feet.
I see him again later, and wonder if he has cheated on the course.
I struggle myself. I must have started unknowingly too fast,
as I am challenged to stay on pace, and discouragement, fueled
by anger at the poor organisation, sets in. On top of that,
summer heat seems to have started this weekend, last night
for the first time Ruksanna could not sleep without AC, and
in the morning, just drinking coffee and stretching puts me
in sweat. Now, I have vowed not to stop for water (like at IIT),
perhaps a poor decision. I am drenched, particularly,
my shorts feel heavy and clinging, as if I had been in the shower.
This does point to the shortcomings of la Méthode Naturelle,
and perhaps I will have to get more scientific about pacing if I
embark on the Marathon next year.
All that said, I slow down a little, but manage to not stop. The
slow down brings some relief (I have unfortunately not even
looked at my watch at the first lap), and I figure that if I
survive till the last return stretch, I will be fine. This indeed
does happen, and I manage a final push to the finish. I finally look
at my chrono: 1'37", that's an excellent time, but I do not
sadly trust the distance at all, nor do I trust the automatic relays
along the way. Indeed, reconstructing the route later on Google
(and hopefully getting right), I find it falls short by 2.5 Km.
Ruksanna has completed her 10K. I drink many glasses of water,
and all in all, we're happy. But perhaps this will be it for this
season, I cannot imagine running this hard in the heat that is
sure to increase again in the coming weeks.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Along the Eastern Express Highway (11.55 Miles) -- 03/11/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 03/09/18 -- Moderate Tempo Run
Warmup, To Lake Powai: 0:11:43
Interval I, Fountain Garden to IIT Gate: 0:09:26 [1.14M, 1.84K, 8'16"/mile]
Rest, to E. Gate & Back: 0:04:46
Interval II, IIT Gate to Fountain Garden: 0:09:13 [1.14M, 1.84K, 8'03"/mile]
Cooldown, back to Nahar: 0:10:44
Mileage: 5.2 Miles - 8.35 Km
Time: 0:45:54
Pace: 8'49"/mile
Weight: 71.4 kg - 157.4 lbs
A moderate session, after not having slept much, as we slept a little
late last night.
Nevertheless, read Surah Sad followed by traditional Surah Yaseen
for Jummah, and the addition of make-up Ishaa ki Namaaz.
I feel relatively good on this run, careful to push yet not overdo, given
state of tiredness and heat. My devoted effort is to really focus on
relaxing while pushing the pace, refining my self awareness of pace
and level of effort. This is a fascinating difficult exercise, probably
endless. A phrase from Miracle Mile Roger Bannister, "... is extremely
wasteful because it is achieved at the cost of relaxation, which should
be maintained throughout the race", has stuck in my mind to exemplify
that effort. I love working on this, trying to minutely control the level
of tension that comes with trying to achieve pace.
I later realize I misunderstood yesterday, Ruksanna ran 1h20minutes without
stopping !!!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 03/11/18 --
Lake Powai - IIT - JVLR, to Eastern Express Highway: 0:41:19
North on Eastern Express Highway - to Bandhup Village Bus Stop
(2nd Pedestrian Overpass): 0:15:38
Back: 0:16:28
Back: 0:43:38
Time: 1:57:04
Mileage: 11.55 Miles - 18.6 Km
Pace: 10'08"/mile
Weight: 71.1 kg - 156.7 lbs
Wake up at 4:00, feeling strangely anxious. Eventually get up at 4:30,
to finish reading Surah Zumar, still this sense of anxiety. What is it
in my blood, which I attribute to the family legacy of the Klueger's
(my Grand Mother) that is so prone to anguish? What a curse! And I
amuse myself at imagining the chemical components in my body that
create such uncontrolable feelings. How silly it feels. Anyway...
I rush out the door earlier around 6:00, let's face it, partially
to get out without getting "caught" by anyone waking up, my plans
constrained. It does feel liberating once out there, in spite of
the near darkness, but so early on a Sunday, the near absence of
traffic allows me to run peacefully on the road, less treacherous
than the sidewalks.
I relax into the slow appearance of daylight, then sunrise. I have
formed an original plan today, which is to head out to the Eastern
Expressway (instead of Aarey) which could provide a good running
terrain. This works out perfectly. There, a long stretch of the
wide highway borders fields, small slums and swamps, and the morning
traffic is relatively light. In fact, there are other runners, serious
cyclists (in full garb) and even a small religious procession of men
clad in orange carrying an idol, which is for some reason common on
this stretch.
This turns out to be perfect text-book distance run. Perfectly relaxed
and easy, loose, and taking the opportunity to study Surah A'raaf. The
weather is hotter, but still bearable (no drench of sweat), and I am
drinking both Gatorade an water. I return in complete comfort, in fact
I immediately go back out with Ruksanna for her rounds of walking,
and we spend the rest of the morning lovingly together.
My sight is more than ever set on the Mumbai Marathon, the target
feeling realistic, although there are many months to go. This terrain
will actually be great option for long runs.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Continuation of the Highway (10 Miles) -- 03/16/18
Friday 03/16/18 -- Continuation of the Highway
Khairani Rd. - Jagruti Nagar - Andheri Ghatkopar Link rd. - to EEHW: 0:28:21
Eastern Express Highway, to the North: 0:27:51
JVLR - Back via Powai Police: 0:39:41
Time: 1:35:54
Mileage: 10 Miles - 16.1 Km
Pace: 9'35"/mile
Weight: 71.9 kg - 158.5 lbs (somewhat frustrated by this weight creep,
although it is still in range.)
With plans for a weekend outing, and weary of work, I plan for a long run
this Friday morning, although not quite sure where to go. Not wanting to
be bored with Aarey, I come up with this, essentially, a continuation of
the last run, as if to answer an open question.
I wake up with a somewhat slow mind, struggle a little both in Qur'an reading
and in Yaseen Namaaz. Ruksanna has had a similar idle day yesterday, unable
to muster energy. But I stick to my plan, get out around 6:40.
Not completely sure where I'll go, I embark on Khairani road, and eventually
decide to reach the Expressway from this side, as if to complete the last run.
Similarly, I pass a long procession of men in orange garb following an idol,
these marches seem very common. There are also runners like me, (in fact
one I've been following since Jagruti Nagar). Here too, I adopt a conservative
relaxed pace, rehearsing Surah A'raaf along the way. An unexpected drizzle
yesterday has left the skies a little heavy, damp, but I manage fine, drinking
Gatorade. I pass a couple intersections that I did not expect, happy as usual
to explore new territory, eventually finding the JVLR as planned. From there,
it's a known return home, which I use to add another verse.
-- Gaurai Beach, Uttan --
After Gaurai Beach (9.15 Miles) -- 03/19/18
Monday 03/19/18 --
Aarey, to beyond Railway Station Laxmi Studio, and back.
Mileage: 9.15 Miles - 14.75 Km
Time: 1:32:05
Pace: 10'04"/mile
Weight: 70.8 kg - 156.1 lbs
After a weekend at Gaurai Beach.
But I haven't felt good, dizzy and tired.
Also, this feels like the first "officially hot" day. I run ok,
but definitely in abundant sweat, like our first days here
in October. I continue to feel weak and somewhat dizzy,
and even though this is more or less ok, I for once struggle
a little to finish the run. As a common result of this hot
run, my urine is very scarce and a deep orange color.
And after that, I get completely stuck in traffic commuting
to work on Saki Vihar road, which ends up taking me one
hour and ten minutes.
Kalyan Dombivli Half Marathon (13.1 Miles) -- 03/25/18
Sunday 03/25/18 -- Kalyan Dombivli Half Marathon
Time: 2:00:28 (Official)
Mileage: 13.1 Miles - 21.1 Km
Pace: 9'11"/mile
Temperature: 38/24C (100.4/75.2F)
Weight: 70.8 kg - 156.1 lbs
For some reason, a lot of tension, and I have to force myself
to remember that this is for fun. A poor lead-up to the event
with the presence of Rodrigo Blaas which has lengthened the days.
On Sunday, after uneasy scarce sleep, up at 3:45. Decided to
drive myself, but it's a bit far, and as usual nervous about
whether Google will take me there. Ruksanna sick comes nevertheless.
She has lost more weight, weighing in at 58.something.
The drive is actually fine, and we reach pretty easily in a little
over an hour. This event, unlike the last, is perfectly well
organized. Ruksanna accompanies me to the start, and off I go.
I am today very careful to pace myself, and keep it at a very
relaxed pace, determined to finish the first half fresh and then
see. The first lap is actually quite nice, dark at first, warm,
but not too hot. I have also determined to drink this time,
taking twice a small bottle along the way, without stopping.
Looks like I complete the first lap in about 58'. I cross
Ruksanna along the way, our hands meet.
On to the 2nd one, continuing to feel good, I wonder if I could
accelerate a little, and pass the 2:00 pacer group. But for some
reason, around Km 15, I suddenly start to struggle, and am back
to wondering whether I want to finish. THese last 5 Km are painful,
I slow down some, but
obstinately keep on running, refusing the voices of DNF, knowing
well the feeling of the middle miles. I get passed this time by the
2:00 group, but still hang on. I count on clearing one
KM after the other, till getting closer to the finish I should
get a final burst. This doesn't really happen, I finish ok, but
without any flourish. My phone is so sweaty that I can't unlock it
to turn off my chrono, and it looks from the clock that I've
finished in about 2h02, a bit of a disappointment. Ruksanna having
completed her 10k is there to meet me. I recover with a little
difficulty, but eventually cool down, and drink the glass she
has handed. We are very proud that she ran her 10K without
stopping, and take a picture with her personalized medal
that exemplifies that. Me, a little disappointed in my own
performance, my medal indicates 2h30, whereas I barely missed
2h00.
I really cannot figure out what went wrong. I do think my pacing
was very adequate, and I should have been able to finish with
energy and improve upon my IIT time, but no, once again, I falter
in the second half. What could have I done different? Perhaps I
haven't eaten enough, and bonked a little? (Breakfast was around
4:00, just coffee, few biscuits and bananas). Or is it that this
week has been too exhausting? Or finally, could it be the heat?
Whatever the case may be, I feel pretty spent after this, drink
a lot. Our car has been blocked by many motorbikes from the Cricket field,
but a young player helps us by moving one by one the bikes, in
a gesture of awesome Mumbai help. We drive home, this time in daylight,
the road taking us through unexpected hills. Ruksanna is tired,
and just after saying she will sleep only at home, falls asleep.
Later, the result comes, a little better than I had thought:
2:00:28. This encourages me some. And later still, after consulting
Bob Glover's book, I see how this all makes perfect sense. Amazing
how his predictions seem right to the dot. I definitely will need
to follow it carefully, like I had done in 2000.
Either way, this is the end of races for some time, we'll resume
after the hot summer months, with the Ramzan break in the middle.
-- Lake Powai Sunrise --
Summer Heat (8.45 Miles) -- 03/28/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 03/28/18 --
To work, via Chandivali Rd - Saki Vihar - Military - Detour to
Pipeline: 0:33:45
Mileage: 3.64 Miles - 5.86 Km
Pace: 9'16"/mile - 5'45"/km
Back, via Arrey Colony: 0:44:58
Mileage: 4.79 Miles - 7.71 Km
Pace: 9'23"/mile - 5'50"/km
--------
Overall:
Time: 1:18:44
Mileage: 8.45 Miles - 13.55 Km
Pace: 9'19"/mile - 5'48"/km
Weight: 71.3 kg - 157.2 lbs
Ruksanna: 58.8 kg
Decided last minute to run to work for an early Baobab meeting,
then run back home to go to the RTO. This all works well, although
the return temperature is very hot (but I manage on Gatorade and water).
Somewhat aggressive dogs, but that too, I manage.
We then drive to the RTO in Worli, to finally complete the Eeco and
Activa registration change. In spite of the usual horrendous traffic
we're so happy to be together today. Beautiful Dadar area.
Read Surah Hujarat in the morning, interesting and inspiring.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 03/30/18 --
Commute to work, via Lake Homes, Aarey and detour on Vijay Nagar Bridge.
Time: 0:52:57
Distance: 5.65 Miles - 9.05 Km
Pace: 9'22"/mile - 5'51"/km
Temperature: 26C - 33C (78F - 91.4F)
Weight: 70.8 kg - 156.1 lbs
Ruksanna: 57.9 kg - 127.6 lbs
So much for taking a week of rest.
I still feel like running this morning, in fact,
I toy with the idea of running
semi-long to work (no meeting). But Ruksanna has woken up and catches
me, so I don't start out before 7:40'ish, by when it's way too hot.
I have been suffering from minor back pain since Kalyan, so this is a bit
of a gamble. Seems fine though, at a moderate pace under this heat,
and carrying one bottle Gatorade one bottle Nariel Pani. Without looking
at my watch, I feel I'm running over an hour, but am very surprised to
discover only 50 minutes upon arrival. Just as well I guess, as it is
getting late.
Ruksanna is very happy with her weight loss. I always knew that, once
she'd put her resolve to it, she'd do great with dieting. Now she realizes
how good it makes her feel, and has gotten caught up in it.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 04/01/18 -- Tempo Run
Warmup, To Lake Powai Platform: 0:13:39 [1.37M - 2.21K]
Tempo, Platform to IIT E. Gate: 0:15:49 [1.82M - 2.93K -
8'41"/mile - 5'24"/km]
Tempo (no stop), back to Platform: 0:15:13 [8'21"/mile - 5'11"/km]
Cooldown, back to Nahar: 0:13:03
Tempo Time: 0:31:02
Tempo Mileage: 3.64 Miles - 5.86 Km
Tempo Pace: 8'33"/mile - 5'18"/mile
Overall Time: 0:57:45
Overall Mileage: 6.4 Miles - 10.3 Km
Overall Pace: 9'01"/mile - 5'36"/mile
Temperature: 26C - 33C.
Weight: 70.7 kg - 155.8 lbs
Ruksanna: 58.0 Kg - 127.8 lbs
Woke up early, and in spite of diffuse back pain, decided to proceed
with the planned Tempo Run. I have to be careful though that this
renewed interest in training does not overshadow my Namaaz or Qur'an
reading. Today, Surah Naml (most excellent ending) and Qamar, followed
by Surah Al-i-Imraan in Namaaz.
In spite of some noise in the house, Ruksanna has not woken up, so
I go out as planned. I do have to carry belt and water bottles because
of the high heat. As I stretch and warm up, I add another verse to
my learning of Surah araaf.
I am determined to gradually work on my speed. Ruksanna is experiencing
a new-found passion for dieting and running, it is her who pushes me
to sign up for another 10K in Bandra on Apr 15. Great, so now, I'll train
for it, in spite of the heat. But I will need to show patience, and after
hesitation, resolve back to observing Ramzan nonetheless.
As usual, I focus on relaxing through the run, finding an loose stride,
vigilant to not let tension build up anywhere in the body, like a game
of whack-a-mole. I feel that I am slowing down a little on the way
back, but the split times will contradict that impression. It could
be that this is at a slight downhill. I run on the road as last time,
to avoid the many obstacles, and on a Sunday morning, not too bothered
by buses or vehicles.
Overall a good run, reality check for my pace. I will have to set an
appropriate goal for the 10K.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Speed in the Heat -- 04/11/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 04/04/18 -- 1/2 Mile Intervals
Warmup: Lake Powai, to Middle Park. 0:18:01 [1.77M - 2.85K]
-------------------
1/2 Mile Intervals, Break In Wall to IIT Main Gate.
Distance: 822.5 Mtrs - 2.698.4 Ft. (0.51 Miles)
Interval I: 04'00" DQ (phone malfunction)
Interval II: 03'53".84 - Pace: 7'37".8 /m, 4'44".5 /km
Interval III: 03'49".49 - Pace: 7'28".1 /m, 4'38".4 /km
Interval IV: 03'53".09 - Pace: 7'35".9 /m, 4'43".3 /km
Interval V: 03'47".41 - Pace: 7'24".1 /m, 4'36".0 /km
Interval VI: 03'51.54 - Pace: 7'32".0 /m, 4'40".8/km
--------------------
Cooldown (back same way): 0:17:14
Fastest Interval Pace: 7'24".1 /mile, 4'36".0 /km
Slowest Interval Pace: 7'37".8 /mile, 4'44".5 /km
Average Interval Pace: 7'31/mile - 4'40"/km
Average 1/2 mile in 3'45"
Total Time: 0:58:29
Total Mileage: 6.6 Miles -10.6 Km
Pace: 8'51"/mile - 5'31"/mile
Temperature: 27C - 33C.
Weight: 71.1 kg - 156.7 lbs
First Interval Session in earnest.
Had bought a watch at Decathlon for this purpose, it's unfortunately
useless, unable to memorize laps!! Back to using the phone :(
... Which actually messes up my first interval, caught in some other
display, I lose that first chrono. But all others are fine.
It's hot, but I've purposefully not taken any bottle, unsure if that will
be ok. Turns out it is, barely. I abundantly drenched in sweat, but
manage ok.
I seek this new pace, as usual focus on a relaxed effort. This feels
like a successful session, a well measured effort throughout. Later
as I calculate my speed, I find out that I can approximately match
my 2001 Marathon speed .... on 1/2 miles. But I'll consider that
a success for now.
Read Surah Hadid in the morning, followed by Fajr and catchup
Ishaa ki Namaaz. As often, after a bad night yesterday, this morning
I woke well rested.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 04/08/18 -- Tempo Run
Warmup, Chandivali Rd. - Saki Vihar - To JVLR Powai: 0:28:33 [2.72M-4.38K]
Tempo Run: Platform to IIT far Gate & Back: 0:31:42 [half: 0:16:10]
Tempo Mileage: 3.66 Miles - 5.9 Km
Tempo Pace: 8'40"/mile - 5'22"/km
Cooldown, back via Powai Police [1.29M-2.07K]
Time: 1:12:56
Mileage: 7.65 Miles - 12.35 Km
Pace: 9'32"/mile - 5'54"/km
Temperature: 26C-34C.
Weight: 70.4 kg - 155.2 lbs
Ruksanna: 57.7 kg - 127.2 lbs
Felt that this tempo run was going really well, but after the fact,
quite disappointed by the pace. It is very hot, carried my water belt,
overall, managed fine.
After a worthless online search for another chronometer watch, I ended
using this one, in redundancy with my phone (which unfortunately didn't
properly measure the return lap). This seems to work good for a single
measurement, and so this is what we'll do from now on.
Surah Jumu'ah and Munafiqoune.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 04/11/18 -- Mile Intervals
Warmup, D-Mart - Lake Homes - JVLR: 0:15:17
Intervals: Powai Udyaan Overpass to IIT Main Gate [1.06M - 1.71K]
Interval I: 8'41" - Pace 8'11"/mile 5'05"/km
Interval II: 8'36" - Pace 8'07"/mile 5'02"/km
Interval III: 8'24" - Pace 7'55"/mile 4'55"/km
Interval IV: 8'43" - Pace 8'13"/mile 5'06"/km
Cooldown, via Lake Homes: 0:13:19
Average Interval Pace: 8'07"/mile - 5'02"/km
Overall Time: 1:03:00
Overall Mileage: 7.2 Miles - 11.65 Km
Overall Pace: 8'43"/mile - 5'25"/mile
Weather: 27C - 32C.
Weight: 70.9 kg - 156.3 lbs
Ruksanna: 57.8 kg - 127.4 lbs
So-so wake-up, but proceed nevertheless stubbornly with my
speed training plan. Read Surah Mulk and same in Namaaz.
Again very hot, and purposefully carrying nothing. I manage
relatively fine, although speed is still relatively slow, but I need
to accept that. The effort though feels adequate, challenging
but well measured, and I continue to focus on relaxation, and
sort of "making me like" this type of effort, finding feelings in
my body which could make this pain enjoyable. I succeed at
times...
Overall satisfactory, but I am curious to know how much the
temperature is affecting my effort.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10K Run for Tobacco Free India, Bandra -- 04/15/18
Sunday 04/15/18 -- Bandra 10K run for Tobacco Free India
Time: 0:52:34
Mileage: 6.23 Miles - 10.03 Km
Pace: 8'26"/mile - 5'14"/km
Weather: 28C - 32C (82F - 90F)
Weight: 70.5 kg - 155.4 lbs
Yesterday evening, I wrote this as a race prediction:
Goal for tomorrow's 10K:
1/2 Marathon in 2:00:00.
Miles in 8'07"/mile - 5'02"/km.
1/2 Miles in 3'45".
So 10K prediction at 0:52:50, 8'30"/Mile Pace, or 5'17"/Km.
And today I come within 15 seconds ahead of fulfilling my race goal!
Coach Bob Glover's book triumphs again...
This is a pleasant run, beautiful along the coastline, very well
organized, but very hot! It feels even more humid here by the sea, and
even at 6:00am, warm and sweaty.
I am somewhat uncertain of today's outcome, not particularly well
awake, but also discouraged by Friday's meltdown, perhaps caused by
too much training in the heat. But the run starts, and I focus on running
a good loose pace. I have decided that my km pace should average around 5'15",
but in the absence of any mile markers, I run by feeling only, trying to
achieve this tenuous equilibrium of effort and relaxation. I mostly
try to ignore those around me, some of whom may have started too fast.
The level in this race seems to be quite good.
I do not pause for water, drawing on my experience in intervals,
thinking in spite of this heat, a sub-hour effort should be sustainable
without drinking.
The run continues pleasant, diverging and rejoining the coast, then turning
back at what seems like the half point, following a few different
variations on the way back. A car who insists on encouraging the runners
but is actually impeding our way has irritated me, taking me off my
concentration, sending me into a little bit of struggle. As usual,
the last third becomes challenging (regardless of distance I guess),
but I hang on bravely, trying not to slow down much, yet sustain
the effort. We reconnect again with the coast for what should be the
final stretch, but one last detour sends us up a small hill, which
resisting discouragement I focus on passing at an even effort.
Finally, the Taj Land's End
Hotel appears in view, this wonderful Hotel (till day my favorite)
where Ruksanna and I had
stayed on our first trip in Mumbai. This launches me into a final kick
to the finish (where the 5K race has lined up, I have to gesture
them to part way). I look at my watch,
00:52:38, just about exactly the goal I had set for myself! This is
all the more remarkable that I have been running by feeling only,
which seems to work quite well.
I then settle into waiting for Ruksanna, whose picture I want
to take at the finish. I am so drenched in sweat it looks like I've
jumped in the sea, fat sweat drops continue to fall at my feet from
my heavy clothes. During that time come in the 5K runners, I
admire these young slim runners, boys and girls,
sprinting to the finish line. By
contrast, a few extremely awkward runners attempt a comic sprint
of their own, and I wonder where on that scale of elegance falls
my own running?
Ruksanna finally arrives, a bit disappointed that she has not
been able to better her time from Kalyan. We are both very satisfied,
and go take our celebratory picture at the Fort, overlooking the SeaLink.
We contemplate the facade of the hotel, trying to guess which window could
have been ours on that first trip, the first time she had taken an
airplane, and wandered bravely in Mumbai by herself, took me to Haji-Ali.
-- Land's End --
In the Heat -- 04/22/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 04/17/18 -- Aarey Commute
Time: 0:48:16
Mileage: 5 Miles - 8 Km
Pace: 9'39"/mile - 6'02"/km
Weather: 29C - 36C (85F-97F)
Weight: 70.4 kg - 155.2 lbs
Today ends up feeling unbearably hot.
In fact, I've not slept well, struggling to fall back asleep in the
night, and then waking up at 4:30. Read Surah's Qiyamah and Insaan.
The run starts well, but then the heat seems to weigh me down considerably,
heavily drenched in sweat. I reach work 20 minutes ahead of my
morning meeting, but even that doesn't seem enough to properly
cool down.
On Saturday night, a woman jumped from the 13th
floor of our building, landed on a red car. For some reason, even though
we left that morning at 5 for the Bandra 10K, we completely missed all
the commotion. Ruksanna today went to her appartment with the neighbor,
the people say she acted this way in anger after some small dispute. Now
people fear her returning spirit.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 04/18/18 -- Aarey Commute (same as yesterday)
Time: 0:49:32
Mileage: 5 Miles - 8 Km
Pace: 9'54"/mile - 6'11"/mile
Weather: 29C - 35C
Weight: 70.7 kg - 155.9 lbs
It's again near unbearable heat, yet I manage much better than yesterday, largely by adopting an easier pace.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 04/19/18 -- Fartlek
Commute through Aarey, till Vijay Nagar Bridge.
Mileage: 4.83 Miles - 7.77 Km
Time: 0:44:03
Pace: 9'07"/mile - 5'40"/mile
Weather: 28C - 36C.
Weight: 70.9 kg - 156.3 lbs
Ruksanna: 58.8 kg - 129.6 lbs
Reading Coach Glover's book, I decide to go for a "Fartlek" as
an easier looser speed session, to recover from last Sunday's
10K, and adjust to long hours at work and imperfect sleep.
It's still very hot, although perhaps more bearable, and with
speed I've decided to not carry liquids. I pick up the pace
for seven segments of various lengths, including the Aarey hill.
Overall a pretty good workout.
Luckily, after a lot of "stop and go" sleep, I feel surprisingly good.
Read up to Surah Abas, opening the last section of the Qur'an,
and am within two verses of finishing learning Surah Araaf.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 04/20/18 -- Training Run
D-Mart - Lake Homes - Powai Lake - Past IIT -
Cross Lal Bahadur Shastri - JVLR to Last Overpass.
Back via Padmavati Devi Marg - Vidya - Hiranandani
Hospital - Galleria - SM Shetty - Chandivali Rd.
Time: 1:11:43
Mileage: 7.5 Miles - 12.05 Km
Pace: 9'34"/mile - 5'57"/km
Weather: 28C - 34C
Weight: 71.3 kg - 157.2 lbs
Ruksanna: 57.4 kg - 126.5 lbs
Was hesitant to run after a hard week, but this turns out to be a perfect training run, relaxed and smooth, in spite of the heat.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 04/22/18 -- Tempo Intervals
Warmup, to Powai Lake Platform
Tempo Run, Platform Overpass to IIT Gate, then back.
Mileage: 1.76 Miles - 2.83 Km
Interval I: 0:14:38.05 - 8'19"/mile - 5'10"/km
Interval II: 0:14:20.11 - 8'09"/mile - 5'03"/km
Total: 0:28:58 - 3.52M 5.66K - 8'14"/mile 5'07"/km
(5K distance would have been in 0:25:35)
Total Time: 0:58:04
Total Mileage: 6.35 Miles - 10.2 Km
Weather 26C - 34C.
Wght: 70.3 kg - 155 lbs
Ruksanna: 57.4 kg - 126.5 lbs (Yesterday, 57.1 kg!)
Yesterday woke up with a mild knee pain, nevertheless, decide to proceed
with this speed training. Ruksanna wanted to run too this morning, but up
early, I go before she wakes up, determined to come back fast, hence the
choice of this semi-tempo run. I'm hoping to practice an 8'00"/mile pace
(5'00"/km) on a roughly 5K course, but tiring halfway, I release pressure
a bit by taking a short rest (hence running two intervals). I struggle a
bit on the last third (as usual), but adamantly pursue running, thinking
giving up once is opening the door to giving up always. My second interval
ends up a little faster than the first, so it's good I held on. But my
pace will disappoint. I am not ready for a 50 minute 10K ...
After that, I take Ruksanna to Aarey, as I had long planned. Incredibly,
even on this Sunday morning, we get severely stuck in traffic, to the point
where I eventually turn around and go all the way through JVLR / Seepz!
Once in Aarey, following Ruksanna's inspiration, we take the "gated road
to the right", a beautiful climb up a hill which offers views of the
area, feeling strangely remote. Great place, that I will be sure to revisit
running.
Today, I have finished reading the Qur'an.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Sunrise from the Powai Lake Platform --
Quarter Miles on the JVLR -- 04/26/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 04/24/18 -- Training Run
Back of 7 Flowers - D-Mart - Lake Homes - Lake Powai -
Saki Vihar - Aarey - Laxmi Studio & back - Office.
Mileage: 7.67 Miles - 12.35 Km
Time: 1:16:42
Pace: 10'00"/mile - 6'12"/km
Weather: 26C - 35C.
Weight: 70.7 kg - 155.9 lbs
Ruksanna: 57.4 kg - 126.5 lbs
Up at 4, and unable to really sleep back.
Now that I've finished the Qur'an, I've decided to reaffirm my knowledge
of the Surah's I've committed to memory for some time. A good Namaaz.
I think I'll run directly to work, but Ruksanna has woken up early. She is
herself very determined to run, very much like me, saying that this "if
I stop her she'll die"! So, wearing her old Kaveri Trail Jersey, we go out
together, into the next Nahar complex (more spacious), and after one
round, I leave her from there, happy at her new found passion.
The run is fine, at easy training pace. I've gotten accustomed to this heat,
at least at a slow pace. Mild left knee sensation, but otherwise fine. Climing
the hill in Aarey, a derelict man is walking his pants completely down, showing
his butt (and I avoid looking at him after passing him). The run is peaceful,
and I've started learning the one before last Aayat of Surah A'raaf.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 04/25/18 -- Aarey Commute.
Time: 0:48:26
Mileage: 5 Miles - 8 Km
Pace: 9'41"/mile - 6'03"/km
Weight: 71 kg - 156.5 lbs
Left early at 6:00 for a 7:15am meeting.
Run uneventful, feeling quite comfortable, lighter traffic
at this hour, large herd of impressive black cows, and
a small procession flanked by orange flag bearers.
Intense Namaaz.
Frustrated with weight, yesterday ate lunch with Barbara
and should have left about 1/3 of the plate - but once again
didn't!
Funny dream, going to the bathroom I find I have an immense
erection, my member stretching all the way to my throat. I think
I'll call Ruksanna to show this incredible thing (is it the result of
Dr Dubey's fine pills?), but I don't.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 04/26/18 -- 1/4 Mile Intervals "JVLR"
Warmup, to Lake Powai Platform: 0:13:58
Intervals, Platform to Under the Bridge & Back (432.5 Meters. 0.27 Miles)
Interval I: 1'49"24 - Pace 6'45"/mile - 4'12"/km
Interval II: 1'53"23 - Pace 7'00"/mile - 4'21"/km
Interval III: 1'44"27 - Pace 6'27"/mile - 4'00"/km
Interval IV: 1'51"69 - Pace 6'57"/mile - 4'19"/km
Interval V: 1'46"72 - Pace 6'38"/mile - 4'07"/km
Interval VI: 1'49"99 - Pace 6'49"/mile - 4'14"/km
Interval VII: 1'48"75 - Pace 6'45"/mile - 4'12"/km
Interval VIII: 1'50"42 - Pace 6'49"/mile - 4'14"/km
Total Interval Session:
Time 0:14:34 - 2.16 Miles, 3.46 Miles - 6'44"/mile, 4'12"/km
Quarter Miles in 1'41"
Cooldown, to 88 via JVLR: 0:21:36
Total Time: 0:50:08
Total Mileage: 5.72 Miles - 9.18 Km
Weather: 27C - 34C
Weight: 70.6 kg - 155.6 lbs
I've have been eagerly planning on this 1/4 mile session as a way
to really test speed. But yesterday, a last minute morning meeting
seems to shatter my plan. Stubborn, I reluctantly plan on a weird
tempo run that would take me to work following the metro line. But
in the morning I discover that a scheduling error has pushed the
meeting to 8am, buying the extra half hour I need. Back then to my
interval plan!!
I have measured this course along the JVLR, on the W side so I
can directly run to work as a cooldown. As an additional idea, I
resolve to commute on the JVLR itself, which seems like the shortest
route, and perhaps isn't that bad at all. (I used to make fun on
people running on freeways in Bangalore, but now understand
how those might be the most predictable places to run on!).
This turns out to be a great session. I enjoy the feel of speed and
range of motion that this shorter distance permits. I feel that the
shorter intervals also allow a better sustained efforts, and I am
really happy to finish the session strong. Only inconvenience, the
buses and vehicles occasionally stopping at my "finish line" under
the bridge, but otherwise, good course.
And even the relaxing run to work through the JVLR works out great,
with ample time left to get ready for the meeting, and re-hydrate.
Satisfied with this.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Surah Al-A'raaf -- 04/29/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 04/28/18 -- Training Run
Khairani Rd. - Saki Naka, Marol Naka, Airport Rd, Chakala - MIDC turn.
88 - Vijay Nagar - Military - Saki Vihar - Chandivali - D-Mart.
Mileage: 7.65 Miles - 12.35 Km
Time: 1:14:53
Pace: 9'47"/mile - 6'04"/km
Weather: 27C - 32C.
Weight: 70.5 kg - 155.4 lbs
Each run now has a purpose. Today, clearly easy training pace.
I explore the road I was going to use the other day for a Tempo
Run. Good thing I didn't do that! Even on a Saturday 6am, it's
a bad way, roadwork constituting many obstacles, traffic lifting
considerable dust and pollution. But this still explores a
commute alternate, which reaches work in about 45 minutes.
Running relaxed and good, slight left knee pain, taking this
opportunity to affirm before last Aayat of Surah A'raaf.
After that, I take Ruksanna for a walk in Hiranandani Park. We
get stuck into one of those inextricable traffic notes on the way back,
this one requires me to negotiate a delicate rear.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 04/29/18 -- Tempo Run
Warmup, Powai Lake Platform via Lake Homes.
Tempo Run, Platform to IIT E. Gate & Back.
Tempo Time: 0:31:41
Tempo Mileage: 3.62 Miles - 5.82 Km
Tempo Pace: 8'45"/mile - 5'26"/km
Cooldown, back via Powai Police Station.
WU / CD Mileage: 3.35 Miles - 5.39 Km.
Total Time: 1:06:50
Total Mileage: 6.95 Miles - 11.2 Km
Weather: 27C - 32C.
Weight: 70.5 kg - 155.4 lbs (thought this would come down today...)
Quite tired, difficult session. But obstinately proceed, motivated
by the idea of resting later after the run.
Feels hotter, heavy with sweat, although the temperatures
actually seem to be the same. Strangely, the
faster pace feels better, although perhaps running a little
too fast for tempo. Legs are heavy and a little sore.
But I later find out that my pace was atrociously slow, especially
for this level of effort! What an unbelievable counter-performance,
after the excellent 1/4 miles earlier this week! This leaves me in
a state of utter confusion on how to approach next week's final 10K.
Me who thought I was on the edge of a break-through performance!
Anyway, concludes an intense week, now must rest.
Yesterday, I finished learning the last Ruku of Surah A'raaf.
I will most likely pause learning till the end of Ramzaan.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Last Ruku of Surah Al A'raaf --
-- Evening in Matheran --
Matheran -- 04/30/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday 04/30/18 --
Day in Matheran, hiking along the various view points for most of the day.
Unfortunately not feeling very well, but still a good place.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 05/01/18 --
Weight: 70.8 kg - 156.1 lbs
Return from Matheran at mid-day. Lots of sleep. This morning
a scorpion in the room, which Ruksanna's squashes with a shoe.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 05/02/18 -- Hiranandani
Time: 0:43:33
Mileage: 4.46 Miles - 7.18 Km
Pace: 9'46"/mile - 6'04"/km
Weight: 70.8 kg - 156.1 lbs
Relaxed and very peaceful. Feel like I've recovered some.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 05/03/18 --
Powai Police - Saki Vihar - Military Rd. - 88.
Mileage: 4.6 Miles - 7.4 Km
Time: 0:43:43
Pace: 9'30"/mile - 5'54"/km
Weather: 28C - 33C
Weight: 70 kg - 154.3 lbs
As much as yesterday's run was great and relaxing,
as much this is bad! Feeling tired, no breath, bad.
Shouldn't have run today. Bad.
Only consolation is achieving my target weight, but
a meager consolation. Don't care much any more.
Bad.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 05/04/18 -- Run in Despair
Same exact route as yesterday.
Mileage: 4.6 Miles - 7.4 Km
Time: 0:43:27
Pace: 9'27"/mile - 5'52"/km
Weather: 28C - 32C
Weight: 69.9 kg - 154.1 lbs
Yesterday was awful. Last night, in spite of a desperate need for sleep,
was bad too, waking up sleepless and awfully brooding. Ruksanna
manages to finally put me back to sleep for some time, which actually
does help some, and the wake-up feels somewhat better, the mind a
little clearer, this foggy heaviness lifted somewhat.
And so is the run. I wouldn't call it a good run, but it's not as awful as
yesterday.
Still, things have taken a rapid and dramatic spiral downwards, back in
the doldrums. In survival mode.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 05/05/18 --
Home Gym: 0:50:00
Sequence: Bar Press (max weight) - Bicycle Abs - Weighted Punches.
Weight: 69.9 kg - 154.1 lbs
Distracted by a work email to which I have responded right away, worried
that I shouldn't have. But recover during extended Namaaz, with continued
focus on Surah A'raaf.
Mood starts difficult, but Namaaz then this session significantly brightens
things. In fact, this gym session, first in some time, feels unexpectedly
good. I may simply need a break from running, I think the MIDC run is
the one that did it, I feel my breath is still heavy from all that dust and
pollution!
I've reached my performance weight, but with the cancellation of tomorrow's
10K, there is sadly no performance to be had!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- Evening in Matheran --
IDBI Inaugural Run 8K, Bandra -- 05/06/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday 05/06/18 -- IDBI Inaugural Run, Bandra
Time: 0:40:45
Mileage Approx according to Event: 5 Miles - 8 Km
Pace: 8'09"/mile - 5'05"/km
Or:
Mileage Approx Google: 5.08 Miles - 8.18 Km
Pace: 8'01"/mile - 4'59"/km
Weather: 27C - 32C
Weight: 70.4 kg - 155 lbs
-------------------------
Walk: From Bandra Land's End to LBS - Andheri Kurla Rd.
Distance: 9.2 Km
Approx Time: 2h00.
-------------------------
I do not get in a worse mood than this.
After the re-schedule of the Peko 10K, which was going to be
my final bouquet before Ramzaan, I have not really embraced this
replacement 8K, which won't be timed and does not appear very
serious. On top of that, a strangely precipitous spiral downward last
week seems to have suddenly annihilated my interest in running.
So this morning, I haven't kept the alarm very early, and wake up
in a worse than ever mood, asking Ruksanna one more time whether
we should go. We do.
Reaching there does nothing to fix things. It's a large assembly
of people wearing purple T-Shirts, a lot of whom are walking away
from the start on the sea promenade. I end up wondering if there
will be any run at all, or is this just some kind of promotion. Follows
the obligato zumba warmup, for which I cannot bring my body in
motion. I am ready to ask Ruksanna if we can simply go back home.
But I do end up jogging in place. And eventually, a small crowd
of purple t-shirts does gather at an improvised start line (I carry the
new t-shirt in my pocket). Someone gives the start and here we go.
I weave my way through the pack, and soon find myself pushing
a good reasonable pace. I am now familiar with this route, similar to
the last 10K here, enjoying the views of the shore, but focused on
keeping pace by feel. This will be a little shorter, so perhaps
a great opportunity to test a faster pace. I'm not sure however of
the exact distance (the organizer has said about 8km), so I
try to spot repairs along the way to reconstruct the route later in
Google.
From there it is the usual story. As I approach the mid-point,
I start to tire a bit, and wonder if I'll quit. The worse is a sort of feeling
in the stomach that usually seizes me. I wonder if this would be helped
a bit by a proper warmup before the run. In any case, given the bad
mood, general loss of interest, etc., it would be particularly tempting
to quit today.
And yet I don't.
As usual, I let down the pace a little in feeling at least, but do
no stop. And eventually return to the sea shore, and here, like last
time, is that final little hill, then going by Shahrukh's house, and finally
the last stretch to the finish, the line not even there any more, and
I stop wherever I feel we've started. My time once again comes almost
exactly on target, I guess I haven't run so poorly after all.
This time, I retrace my steps along the course to meet Ruksanna.
The race has actually completely dissipated my spleen, and, in an
amazing mood shift, I will be
a different man throughout the day, exuberant. Ruksanna wants to
walk a bit before returning home. We stop for Coconut on the way,
and then I realize her crazy idea, she wants to walk all the way
home! Well, I'm crazy enough to embrace the idea, so here we go,
guided by Google.
We soon come across the Lucky Biryani Restaurant, then
cross Bandra Train Station followed by a particularly impressive slum.
Then in high contrast, we end up in a large avenue with large sidewalks
which features many government, judicial or financial buildings, luckily
very quiet. Then it's a long stretch along cricket fields, where, mostly
exposed to the dhoup, I start fearing that I might burn my legs
like I had in Goa. But just then, we take a break in a Starbucks.
Finally, we reach the Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg which should take
us towards home, but here the chaos, dust and pollution are becoming
hard to navigate, and my phone dies. So we decide to finish in a
Rickshaw, happy that this day has turned out fantastic after all.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Before Ramzaan -- 05/12/18
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday 05/08/18 -- Aarey Commute
Time: 0:49:08
Mileage: 5 Miles - 8 Km
Pace: 9'50"/mile - 6'08"/km
Weather: 26C - 33C.
Weight: 70.5 kg - 155.4 lbs
Relaxed and easy, comfortable. Namaaz: Surah Mulk.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday 05/09/18 --
Lake Homes - JVLR - IIT E. Gate - Hiranandani Hosp. - Orchard - IRB.
Mileage: 5.8 Miles - 9.3 Km
Time: 0:56:20
Pace: 9'43"/mile - 6'03"/km
Weather: 29C - 34C.
Weight: 70.1 kg - 154.5 lbs
Haven't slept much, because of France trip preparation.
Ruksanna has cut her hair!
Feels hotter, under some cloud cover, and it is.
But easily paced run, comfortable.
Pondering over potential French trip.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday 05/10/18 -- Fartlek
Powai Platform - IIT - Back via Orchard.
Time: 0:49:25
Mileage: 5.57 Miles - 8.97 Km
Pace: 8'52"/mile - 5'30"/km
Weather: 28C - 34C
Weight: 69.8 kg - 153.9 lbs
Woke up energized, as often that case a day after a bad night.
The trip to France is taking shape, working through all the hurdles
of getting Ruksanna's visa in time. Good run, but it feels like it
has gotten hotter still, even starting around 5:45. Overabundant sweat.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday 05/11/18 --
Weight: 69.8 kg - 153.9 lbs
Rest. Yesterday's run might have been a little harder than thought,
if judged by the mild pains in my legs.
Have achieved target weight before Sunday, now funnily worry that
I might lose too much weight right after it during Ramzaan!
Going for Ruksanna's French Visa ...
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday 05/12/18 --
Weight: 70.1 kg - 154.5 lbs
Ruksanna: 56.7 kg - 125 lbs
Ruksanna has finally come under 57kg, which prompts an uncharacteristic
fisted "Yes, I did it!!!" reaction from her!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Peko 10K Run, Bandra -- 05/13/18
Unfortunately, these results are invalidated by the fact
that I didn't run the full course!
Time (official): 0:49:39
Mileage (theoritical): 10 Km
Pace (theoritical): 7'59"/mile - 4'58"/km
Mileage (actual): 5.91 Miles - 9.51 Km
Pace (actual): 8'24"/mile - 5'13"/km
Weather: 29C - 33C.
Weight: 69.8 kg - 153.9 lbs
For once, and in spite of the very early 5:30 start (thank God in this
heat!), I have decided to jog for warm-up, by-passing the mandatory
Zumba session. High hopes that this will make for a better start.
This is a much smaller run, and I appreciate the relative intimacy.
I feel like I'm running a great race, very focused on keeping loose,
especially
the belly. I am somewhat thrown off concentration by doubts on the route
(there is not much support along the way), but still reach the mid-way point
in relative control. Usual mid-race woes, but again, very focused on relaxing and
keeping belly tightness under control, and tough it out quite well, successfully
quelling a few waves of discouragement.
But unfortunately, this being a smaller race, it's not quite
as well organised.
The route isn't always clear. As I head into the last third, I think there should
be one last detour through an intersection, but in the absence of anyone in
sight, I continue straight which I know will take me directly back to the
start. I finish in a good sprint, concluding what seems like a great
performance, under my goal of 50 minutes, feeling very satisfied.
I then walk back in search of Ruksanna, starting to worry as I wait that
she might have gotten lost. But no, here she comes, almost bringing tears
to my eyes, and we finish the course running slowly together. She has cut
her hair shorter to run better, a big gesture! She has run at about the same
time as always, slightly disappointed to not improve but overall happy,
even though the silly conflict with our neighbor has eaten her mind along
the way. That's exactly right, petty worries should not be allowed to
enter our running.
Back home, my suspicion alas turns out to be true. In spite of getting an
official finisher msg, I have unwittingly by-passed a small detour in the course,
shortening the race by about 500 meters. Funnily, Ruksanna, who I feared might
have gotten lost, is the one who has run the course correctly!
Seen like that, my performance appears
far less exceptional! Had I run a full 10k, my time would have been around
0:52:10, about 25 seconds better than the last time on this course.
Oh well, still a great way to end this training cycle - and my return
to competition after over 10 years - before the start
of Ramzaan this week. I feel I've learned a lot about the 10k distance
through this cycle, and definitely intend to come back for more.
Later, while Ruksanna is resting, I go and confront the neighbor,
who ends up apologetic in face of my arguments, seemingly closing the
case. Ruksanna half wakes up, she is so happy that I went and did that.