Challenging route for run

THE flat course on the final kilometre towards the finish line will offer participants the option of picking up the pace and going flat out in surging forward for a sprint finish at the New Balance Pacesetters 15km Run at the Lake Gardens in Kuala Lumpur on May 17.
However, Pacesetters Athletic Club Malaysia (PACM) president Rustam Affandi Zaihan said it would not be exactly a stroll in the park for the runners to complete the distance.
“It is still going to be a challenging course, similar to previous years, especially the hilly climb around Bukit Tunku. From our experience, the foreign participants from Singapore are thrilled with the rare opportunity to tackle the undulating route,” he added.
And, it will also serve as a good training ground for runners attempting to feature in the full 42km marathon distance at the Standard Chartered KL Marathon scheduled on June 28.
New Balance stepped forward to continue their partnership as the title sponsor for the fifth consecutive year.
Stream Enterprise event executive Alvin See said they were pleased to support an established event and reward the top five winners in each category with New Balance vouchers worth RM3,000.
“We are pleased with the overwhelming response from the running community over the years. Last year, the run drew 1,700 participants and we expecting a bigger turnout for the upcoming event,” he added.
Other partners are Milo, PowerBar, Electcoms, Suunto, Yakult, Cool Rhino, Nivea, Proviton, Counterpain and Nestle Fitnesse while Coronade Hotel is the official hotel.
The organisers are anticipating 2,000 participants to take part in six categories – men’s open (16 years and above), men’s veteran (40 to 50 years), men’s senior veteran (above 50 years), women’s open (16 years and above), women’s veteran (35 to 45 years) and women’s senior veteran (above 45 years).
So far, they have received 1,000 entries.
Rustam gave an assurance that they would not compromise in their approach in hosting the unique road race.
“Our four main attractions in serving the runners better are to provide quality running vest, finisher medals, finishing photo on the certificate and breakfast to the participants. And, we will continue to follow the same policy in all of our events,” he added. For details, visit www.pacesetters.com.my.

Saucony 100Plus Passion Run 2009

Date : 24/5/2009
Time : 7am
Distance : 15KM, 10KM, 5KM
Venue : East Coast Park
Website : http://www.singaporepassionrun.com/

千人义山行的意义

旧飞机场路义山群的开辟与吉隆坡历史紧密相连，《千人义山行》其中最具教育意义的工作，就是把人带到现场，亲眼去认识各族先贤的墓和纪念碑，亲身感受这片土地的历史。
这8年来，《千人义山行》的参与者包含了不同宗教背景的异族同胞，而雪隆区各中小学都全力支持此运动，每年派出上百位学生参与。筹委会因而肩负着提醒和教育新生代的重大责任。
除了推动捍卫历史古迹的观念，《千人义山行》还强调环境保护的重要性，以及跑步运动的好处。为了推广环保概念，筹委会尝试过送出设计精美的环保袋，时时提醒参与者要爱护我们居住的环境，还帮忙实践义山美化工作，而不只是在清明节时才打扫墓地。
过去的历史是未来的起点，历史文化是具有生命力且不断成长的，唤醒人们对文化古迹的情感及关注；唯有让过去的历史成为未来的借鉴，我们才能走得更远。保存先贤历史与文化是全体人民的神圣任务。《千人义山行》追溯历史，延续文化！

More runners for 15km run

OVER 2,000 runners are expected to take part in the New Balance Pacesetters 15km run at the Lake Gardens in Kuala Lumpur on May 17.

Pacesetters Athletic Club Malaysia (PACM) president Rustam Affandi Zaihan said the seventh edition of the run is expected to entice more than the average of 1,500 runners for the past the six years.

"We are expecting about 2,000 runners this year and we believe this race will help us develop more amateur runners capable of running in international events," he said at the launch of the run in Petaling Jaya yesterday.

The route will be just as challenging as in previous years and a close and exciting finish is expected as the last kilometre is to be run on flat terrain.

The run features six categories -- men's and women's open, veteran and senior veteran.

The top five winners of each category will be awarded prizes in the form of New Balance product vouchers worth RM1,000 (first), RM800 (second), RM600 (third), RM400 (fourth) and RM200 (fifth) in addition to trophies and medals.

Entry forms can be obtained from the PACM office at 37 Blok C, Lorong Jugra, Taman Sri Lempah 3 1/2 Miles Jalan Klang Lama, Kuala Lumpur, at PACM counters at key public races in the run up to this event or at www.pacesetters.com.my.

Retired teacher running in Marathon des Sables to help those with HIV/AIDS

MANY people will readily donate money to a charitable organisation, and some will volunteer their services for a good cause, too.

Retired teacher and veteran marathon runner Mohamed Adnan Osman, however, is doing something that few would do.

He will be putting his body to the test by participating in the Marathon des Sables (Marathon of the Sands) – dubbed the “world’s toughest foot race” – in the hope of inspiring his friends, family and the whole nation to donate money to the Malaysia AIDS Foundation (MAF).

The Marathon des Sables is a seven-day competition in which participants are required to run 243km across the Sahara desert.

That distance is equivalent to five and a half regular marathons, and the longest single stage is 84km.

Along the way, the runners wil be traversing dry riverbeds, desert plains and mammoth sand dunes, in scorching temperatures of between 45°C and 48°C.

The event is held every year in the southern Moroccan desert, and this year, it is being held from March 27 to April 2.

Mohamed Adnan said he would be running alongside more than 800 other participants from around the world, aged between 16 and 78. Each of them is required to carry their own food and gear.

“In order to give some significance to this endeavour I will be using the marathon as a vehicle to raise awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Malaysia and raise funds for the MAF’s Medicine Assistance Scheme,” Mohamed Adnan said during a farewell party organised by the MAF at Celebrity Fitness in 1 Utama shopping centre in Petaling Jaya recently.

MAF chairman Prof Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman said she grateful to Adnan for naming MAF as his charity of choice, and hoped his deed would be an inspiration to those suffering from HIV/AIDS.

“MAF also hopes that companies and individuals will be inspired by Cikgu Adnan’s amazing endeavour to donate to MAF.

“We are hoping to raise RM50,000 through this marathon fund-raising drive for our Medicine Assistance Scheme, which assists people living with HIV/AIDS with the purchase of medications,” she added.

Donations can be banked into Maybank account number 514105-421257 under the name Malaysian Aids Foundation.

Training

Date : 26/7/2009
Distance : 4 Laps
Timing : 35:33
Venue : DJ

Bhp Orange Run 2009

“BE prepared. Have fun, and run!”

So urged Pacesetters Athletic Club Malaysia president Rustam Affandi Zaihan to those taking part
in the annual Orange Run quarter marathon.

As a club that promotes running, Rustam sees the Orange Run as a great event for members of the
public.

Around 500 out of 1,800 members of Pacesetters are set to join the run.

“The Orange Run is definitely one of those look-forward events in the Pacesetters’ calendar. It’s a
good event for the community to join,” he said.

“It’s also an opportunity for those busy bees to start bonding with their loved ones, or just join
for the love of running.”

He said one should view the run more as a friendly outing rather than a competition. “The event’s
purpose is to promote healthy living.

We want participants to enjoy living the healthy life.

“When you start exercising, it makes you feel good about yourself. It’s for your own pleasure to
stay healthy.”

Rustam also advised runners to prepare themselves well.

“You need to be physically ready. You have to build up your stamina.

“For those who have never trained before, I’d suggest they walk briskly before moving on to jogging as this will help to build stamina. Runners have to be disciplined, they should never force hemselves,” said Rustam, who jogs every morning.

The Orange Run will be held at The Curve Mutiara Damansara’s piazza on April 12. This fourth edition of the quarter-marathon is organised by Boustead Petroleum Sdn Bhd.

Entry forms are available at the following BHPetrol stations: BHPetrol Mutiara Damansara,
BHPetrol TTDI, BHPetrol Damansara Utama, BHPetrol Damansara Jaya, BHPetrol Sg Kayu Ara, BHPetrol SS2 and BHPetrol Bandar Sri Damansara (Kepong/ Batu Caves bound).

Those interested can also get the forms in Malay Mail, On The Road magazine and on the BHPetrol
website.

Participants are urged to submit the completed forms on March 28-29 and April 4-5 at the seven
participating BHPetrol outlets, and they can then get tag numbers on the spot.

More details can be found at the BHPetrol’s website www.bhpetrol. com.my or by calling the BHPetrol Customer Service Centre on 1-800-18-8888.

Training

Date : 25/3/2009
Distance : 4 laps
Timing : 35:50
Venue : DJ

Volunteer's Required for BHP Orange Run

From Pacesetters Athletic Club

The Club will be involved in the coming ORANGE RUN on 12th April 2009as technical Support and we will be manning the route and timing for the topfinishers.
As such, we are looking for volunteers as road marshal and timersat the finishing point.
If you interested or keen to join in the event atmosphere, please email orsms to our EXCO, Miss Tan Pek Moi [contact as below] giving your contactnumber.
As the event is round the corner, would greatly appreciate if you can respond latest by 29th March 2009 to:

Miss Tan Pek Moi
email: pm1288@gmail.com
mobile # 012 234 3575

BRIEFING & ENTITLEMENT
Briefing will be on
- 11th April 2009 @ 4.00pm - The Curve [beside VW showroom]

As part of our appreciation for your efforts, you can look forward toreceiving:

- Entitled to receive only one official volunteer t-shirt.

- Breakfast on event day only for volunteers’ station outside the venue area.

- A token allowance will be paid.

Thank you
Rustam Zaihan

Penang Earth Day Run 2009

Date : 19 April 2009
Time : 7:30am
Venue : Sunshine Square, Bayan Baru
Distance : 10KM
Website (entry form) : http://www.daptanjong.org/wp-content/store/Entry_Form.pdf

Training

Date : 23/3/09
Distance : 5 Laps
Time : 44:55
Venue : DJ

SCKLM on Facebook!!!

Hi there ,
We’ve set up the official Facebook page for Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009. Do visit the link and join us as a fan to continually receive the latest updates and notifications and also meet up with other fellow runners and fans.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Standard-Chartered-KL-Marathon-2009/57772273717

Thanks
Alina

Training

Date : 21/3/2009
Distance : LGx2 + Carcosa
Timing : 64;24
Venue :DJ

Courier your race kit to your doorsteps

Have you registered for the Penang Bridge International Marathon (PBIM) yet? If you haven't, don't get left behind! Register now to receive an early bird discount of 10% and enjoy our new PBIM courier service!
That's right, you can choose to have your race kits inclusive of the event t-shirt, timing chip, running bib and sponsored goodies delivered right to your doorsteps!The PBIM race kit would be couriered out 3 weeks in advance before the race day and is charged an amount of RM10. No more hassle of waiting in line with some tens of thousands of other participants and no more last minute dash to the collection venue. Make the smart choice and let the decision you make be a convenient one for you. Register now for PBIM 2009!

Adidas Post Season Sale

Komtar Tower Run

Date : 31 May 2009
Time : 6:00am
Venue : Foyer, Lebuh Teck Soon, Komtar
Website : http://www.komtartowerrun.com.my/

Training

Date : 20/3/2009
Distance : 5 Laps
Time : 44:52
Venue : DJ

Tougher Orange Run

THE highly-anticipated annual quarter-marathon, organised by Boustead Petroleum Sdn Bhd will be making its fourth appearance come April 12.

BHPetrol managing director Tan Kim Thiam is expecting at least 3,000 Malaysians to take part in this year’s edition of the Orange Run.

“We have extended the race length from 9.8km in the previous years to 11km,” said Tan. “Although it will be much tougher, I’m sure many people will enjoy the challenge.”

Runners will be flagged off at The Curve Mutiara Damansara’s piazza. The quarter-marathon is open to all Malaysians above the age of 13.

This year, BHPetrol has introduced a much convenient method of registration.

On particular dates, registrants can submit their entry forms at selected BHPetrol stations, where they will be handed their tag numbers on the spot.

“After that, all the contestants have to do is present themselves on the day of the competition and they are good to go,” said Tan.Tan also assured members of the public that they can expect plenty of fun for families, as the event will be loaded with food stalls, games and giveaways.

“Participants and their family members will even be treated to free nasi lemak and teh tarik,” said Tan.

Entry forms for The Orange Run ‘09 are now available at BHPetrol stations, at the BHPetrol website, Malay Mail and On The Road magazine.

Though it is free to join, participants are encouraged to enrol early as the race is limited to the first 3,000 entries.

The BHPetrol Customer Service Centre can be reached at 1-800-18-8888 for enquiries.

Additional details can be found at www.bhpetrol.com.my

Training

Date : 18/3/2009
Time : 5 Laps
Timing : 45:23
Venue : DJ

Bangkok Triathlon 2009

Bangkok Triathlon 2009 Bangkok Duathlon 2009
Swimming 1.5km or Riding 40 km and Running 10 km
All benefits will go to Rajpracha Samasai Foundation to help children of HIV victims.

Training

Date : 16/3/2009
Distance : 5 Laps
Timing : 44:53
Venue : DJ

Training

Date : 15/3/2009
Distance : 4 laps
Timing : 51:49
Venue : LG

NB Klang Pacer 1/2 Marathon

STANDARD CHARTERED KL MARATHON OPENS REGISTRATION!

Kuala Lumpur, 13 March 2009 – Ready! Set! Go! Registration for the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 is now open to all Malaysians and runners across the world who have set their eyes on the RM350,000 total prize money allocated for the biggest and most rewarding international race to ever hit the country.


In conjunction with the launch of the official website today, running enthusiasts can now check out more information and officially enrol themselves in the marathon through several convenient and widely available channels. You could either register online at www.kl-marathon.com or pay in person at Standard Chartered Bank branches within the Klang Valley (soon to be nationwide), MSIG Insurance branches in the Klang Valley, and at the offices of the Malaysia Amateur Athletic Union and Federal Territory Amateur Athletic Association. .

The Malaysian public today had the opportunity to sign up at strategically-located registration counters within the Bukit Bintang vicinity. “We want to make it as easy as possible for people to sign up. In the coming weeks, registration will also be made available alongside fun promotional activities at roadshows to be held in the Klang Valley,” said Hemant Dua Director of Octagon Malaysia, the event organizers for the marathon. “We want to get the whole nation excited to run,” he added.

Staying true to its theme “Run Your Race”, you can select your desired category from a wide range comprising the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10KM, Fun Run (5KM), and the Kids Dash in two different age groups - 6 to 9 years old & 10 to 12 years old. Entry is free for this category which, is in line with the Youth and Sports Ministry’s vision of developing an active, healthy and energetic community starting with the youths. Malaysians can also do their bit for charity by choosing to register for ‘Run for a Cause’ to raise funds for one of the five official Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 charities. And if you have your colleagues joining you, opt for the Corporate Challenge where companies can compete as corporate teams while fostering camaderie and team spirit at the same time.

The Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 will undoubtedly put Malaysia on the global running map as international and local runners navigate a route covering beautiful and historical landmarks around the Klang Valley.

Hurry and log on now to register as the early bird period offers a lower registration fee.

The Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 is organised by Octagon, with Standard Chartered Bank as the Title Sponsors and MSIG Insurance Solutions as a Gold Sponsor. The marathon is endorsed by the Youth and Sports Ministry and the Kuala Lumpur City Hall, and sanctioned by the Malaysia Amateur Athletic Union (MAAU), International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).

For more details or to register, please log on to www.kl-marathon.com

In conjunction with the launch of the official website today, running enthusiasts can now check out more information and officially enrol themselves in the marathon through several convenient and widely available channels. You could either register online at www.kl-marathon.com or pay in person at Standard Chartered Bank branches within the Klang Valley (soon to be nationwide), MSIG Insurance branches in the Klang Valley, and at the offices of the Malaysia Amateur Athletic Union and Federal Territory Amateur Athletic Association. .

The Malaysian public today had the opportunity to sign up at strategically-located registration counters within the Bukit Bintang vicinity. “We want to make it as easy as possible for people to sign up. In the coming weeks, registration will also be made available alongside fun promotional activities at roadshows to be held in the Klang Valley,” said Hemant Dua Director of Octagon Malaysia, the event organizers for the marathon. “We want to get the whole nation excited to run,” he added.

Staying true to its theme “Run Your Race”, you can select your desired category from a wide range comprising the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10KM, Fun Run (5KM), and the Kids Dash in two different age groups - 6 to 9 years old & 10 to 12 years old. Entry is free for this category which, is in line with the Youth and Sports Ministry’s vision of developing an active, healthy and energetic community starting with the youths. Malaysians can also do their bit for charity by choosing to register for ‘Run for a Cause’ to raise funds for one of the five official Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 charities. And if you have your colleagues joining you, opt for the Corporate Challenge where companies can compete as corporate teams while fostering camaderie and team spirit at the same time.

The Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 will undoubtedly put Malaysia on the global running map as international and local runners navigate a route covering beautiful and historical landmarks around the Klang Valley.

Hurry and log on now to register as the early bird period offers a lower registration fee.

The Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 is organised by Octagon, with Standard Chartered Bank as the Title Sponsors and MSIG Insurance Solutions as a Gold Sponsor. The marathon is endorsed by the Youth and Sports Ministry and the Kuala Lumpur City Hall, and sanctioned by the Malaysia Amateur Athletic Union (MAAU), International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).

Orange Run 2009

You're Invited: Standard Chartered KL Marathon Opens Registration!!!

Dear Runner

Octagon, a division of CMGRP (M) Sdn. Bhd and Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia Berhad are pleased to commence the official registration and website for the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009, the biggest and most rewarding marathon to hit Malaysia.

To commemorate the start of the registration tomorrow, we are having some activities in KL to kick off the registration. We would like to invite you to come over to Pavilion KL to join in on the festivities. Lucky runners who sign up tomorrow at Pavilion KL will stand a chance to win thumb drives, free registration and a grand prize of 2 VIP Access Passes to attend the Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 (great gift for your friends and family).

When ? 10.00am to 1.00pm on 13 March 2009 (Friday)
Where ? Espressamente Illy Café
Lot 310, Level 3, Pavilion KL, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang
55100 Kuala Lumpur (facing Bintang Walk)

Or if you’re unable to come over to Pavilion KL, no worries. Just log on to www.kl-marathon.com from tomorrow onwards to register! Also, tomorrow we will be sending you the official press release announcing the start of registration to post on your blog.

If you need more info about what is happening tomorrow, please do not hesitate to contact:

Weber Shandwick Malaysia, at 03-7843 3100, or;

Alina Morais amorais@webershandwick.com (017 323 3078 / 03 7843 3125)
Norhayati Malek nmalek@webershandwick.com (012 713 2770 / 03 7843 3129)
Marc Ng marc5133@yahoo.com (019 3196032)

Thanks
Alina

Standard Chartered KL Marathon

Stay tune.

Registration is slotted to start on Friday.

There is something exciting happening in KL this Friday.

SPREAD THE WORD AND HELP

We’ve built a great service now we want people to know about it... We thought; let's donate to charity every time someone helps us spread the word. This way, we can then benefit from your word of mouth (or mouse in this case) whilst at the same time being able to donate what we normally would have had to spend on advertising!

See more info and what others are saying at http://www.hotelscombined.com/Charity.aspx

Jogoya March Promotions

Jogoya's Buffet Pricing
You can find here a list of pricing for different time session when you dine in Jogoya Buffet Restaurant.

All we can say is that the pricing structure that we have here in Jogoya is very much value for your money with the quality and quantity of food we serve.

You won't be able to find such great deal anywhere else. Call us at +603-21421268 to make reservations today!

Alternatively, go to this page to make reservations.

Thank you!

Green Light For MAAU To Hold Marathon

The Sports Commissioner's Office has issued a licence to the Malaysian Amateur Athletics Union (MAAU)to organise the inaugural Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009.

Sports Commsioner Datuk Nik Mahmud Nik Yusuf said the licence was issued on Friday.

"The MAAU and the Federal Territory Amateur Athletics Union (FTAAU) have resolved the dispute on the organising," he told Bernama here today, adding that with the resolution there was no reason to not give permission for the marathon to be held on June 28.

The dispute started when the FTAAU, which is also an affiliate of the MAAU, claimed that the KL International Marathon (KLIM) was the brainchild of the FTAAU since it was introduced in 1984 and the hosting of the Standard Chartered KL Marathon by the national parent body was akin to robbing its right.

MAAU at a meeting chaired by its president Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim with FTAAU on last Tuesday succeeded in finding a solution.Shahidan had said the MAAU would act as the organisers of the championship while the FTAAU would collaborate in terms of giving technical assistance.

MAAU, as the umbrella body for national athletics, hopes the championship that has cash prize money of RM300,000 would attract 12,000 participants from within and outside the country.

-- BERNAMA

Dispute On KL Marathon 2009 Resolved

The dispute on the organising of the inaugural Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2009 has finally been resolved when the Malaysian Amateur Athletics Union (MAAU) and the Federal Territory Amateur Athletics Union (FTAAU) reached a decision at a meeting on Tuesday.
MAAU president Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim said the MAAU would act as the organisers of the championship to be held on June 28 while the FTAAU would collaborate in terms of giving technical assistance.
"Whatever problems that cropped up with the FTAAU have been resolved at the meeting amicably for mutual benefits," he told reporters here Tuesday.
He hoped the inaugural event would attract 12,000 participants from within and outside the country.
Shahidan said the MAAU was now waiting for the licence from the Sports Commissioner's Office and hoped it would be approved immediately because the problem with the FTAAU had been resolved.
The dispute started when the FTAAU, which is also an affiliate of the MAAU, claimed that the KL International Marathon (KLIM) was the brainchild of the FTAAU since it was introduced in 1984 and the hosting of the Standard Chartered KL Marathon by the national parent body was akin to robbing its right.

Laguna Phuket International Marathon 2009

The fourth Laguna Phuket International Marathon 2009 is now exactly 100 days away and it is gearing up to be the biggest, best and most runner friendly ever. In this newsletter we will introduce this year’s event sponsors as well as an announcement of a photo competition with great prizes. We also give you some environmental tips on how you can help minimize the impact of the event on the Phuket environment. We hope you enjoy reading it and look forward to seeing you all in Phuket on 14 June 2009!

Early Bird Registration

The early bird registration period will end on 31 March 2009. Entries at the moment are well above last years’ entries in the same period so that another participation record is expected. The Laguna Phuket hotels are also filling up very quickly so make sure you book your room before it is too late. Room rates start at THB 4,385 and several promotional deals are also available. Instant bookings can be made on the registration website.

Race Day Walk for Individuals and Corporate groups

The 5K Walk is what makes the Laguna Phuket International Marathon a truly family friendly event for all. Since it’s inception in 2007 the Walk has seen rapid growth and it might soon be the most popular distance at the event. Corporate groups and groups from hotels around Phuket and Phang-nga in particular have embraced the event as an excellent way for their staff to get together in a fun event. Team Laguna entered more than 100 participants last year and their target for this year is to reach 300 participants. The new start time at 8:00 am will make the event even more interesting especially for those who find it difficult to get out of bed early on the weekend. So get your friends together and join the fun! Register here.

Charity walk to create awareness of the blind

DO you know what it feels like to be in total darkness? And worse still in a world where people are too busy to give you some help?

The annual charity walk entiled Blind leading the Blind, organised by the Lions Club of Petaling Jaya, will be a chance for you to experience the challenges faced by people with impaired vision, more so to understand how much your help is needed to bring a ray of hope to the needy.

Into its seventh year, the walk will take place on April 19, at the PJ Civic Hall car park.

The Petaling Jaya City Council has recognised the walk as an official annual event, providing food, shelter and facilities on the day.
The event was launched on Tuesday at the MBPJ headquarters by Selangor local government, research and studies committee chairman Ronnie Liu and Petaling Jaya mayor Datuk Mohamad Roslan Sakiman.
Liu said he respected the organisation for living up to its motto “We Serve” and that the state government shared the same philosophy.
He also related his experience participating in the walk.
“It was my first real encounter in the world of darkness walking blindfolded for 3km and for about an hour. This truly memorable experience has changed my perception on life.
“I am now ever grateful for being able and for my gift of sight,” he said.
He also commended MBPJ for taking pro-active action to adopt the walk and urged the residents to take part.
He handed over a donation of RM20,000 from the state, adding that he would like to see at least 200 MBPJ staff members taking part in the walk with their families.
Organising chairman Mak Siew Fong said the annual walk had raised more than RM500,000 to support the Lions Club’s First Sight programme.
He said the club targeted to raise RM150,000 from this year’s walk.
“In collaboration with the Tun Hussein Onn National Eye Hospital, most of the proceeds have been used directly to aid the blind in our community,” he said.
He added that almost 8,000 eye screen tests had been conducted and 800 cataract operations had been carried out.
“Most of these people are from the rural areas where eye care facilities are not always within easy reach or lack awareness that people with cataract blindness can have their sight restored,” he said.
For details, visit www.blindleadingtheblind.net.

Register Penang Bridge International Marathon

Penang Bridge International Marathon 2009 registration will be opened to public on 6th March 2009.
Please register now!
https://www.penangmarathon.gov.my/pbim2009/registration/

HOTLINE: 014- 600 6689
If you have any enquiries about Penang Bridge International Marathon 2008, please contact +6014-6006689 or email to

info@penangmarathon.gov.my

Training

Date : 5/3/2009
Laps : 3
Time : 30:21
Venue: DJ

TENJI Japanese Restaurant - March Promotion

Walk of Hope

Join us at CapSquare in supporting WWF in its global climate change initiative, Earth Hour. This initiative involves individuals, businesses, governments and communities whereby they are invited to turn off their lights for one hour on Saturday March 28, 2009 at 8.30pm to show their support for action on climate change.

Walk of Hope

At 6.00pm on 28th March 2009 (Saturday), we would like to call upon all urbanites to go the extra mile for Mother Earth by joining a charity walk with their family and friends. The walk will start at Persiaran CapSquare, it continues along Jalan Ampang and back to Persiaran CapSquare (it will take approximately 25 - 30 minutes). We would like to gather approximately 500 people to send a message that KL urbanites are united in taking action on climate change. The walk will be led by a marching-band and Charm All-Stars Cheerleaders and will also include celebrity participants!

At exactly 8.30pm, CapSquare will turn off its lights in support of Earth Hour. There will be a countdown to darkness at CapSquare and participants and patrons will also have a perfect view of KL Tower turning-off their lights at the same time. You can dine by candlelight at our F&B outlets and enjoy a host of low-powered shows such as a fire-eating show, brass band performance, oriental drums, acoustic performances by talented local artistes and a cheerleading performance.

Tickets for the walk will be sold at RM10 and proceeds will be donated to WWF-Malaysia.

Each participant will get a FREE Earth Hour T-Shirt and a Recycle Goodie Bag.

For more information please visit http://www.capsquare.com.my/

* FREE ADMISSION FOR CHILDREN AGE 12 AND BELOW.

Axcess outlets

> Axcess Office, Jalan Semangat

> 1-Utama Shopping Complex

> Stadium Putra Box Office, Bukit Jalil

> Rock Corner, Midvalley Megamall> Lot 10 Tower Records

> Parkson Sunway Pyramid

> Rock Corner, The Curve (Start from 15/1/09 onwards)

> Tower Records, Gurney Plaza, Penang

> Music Valley, Pelangi Leisure Mall, Johor Bahru

Training

Date : 3/3/09
Distance : 4 Laps
Timing : 34:38
Venue : DJ

跑步

星洲廣場

第一次腰部受傷是在十年前，那時我以為是運動時不小心所致。
第二次腰部受傷之後，我知道這可能是一個年齡的訊號，是改變一下生活方式的時候了，連自己最喜歡的跑步可能都要放棄。
兩次受傷都是在很短的時間裡爆發。尤其是第二次，身體突然在毫無預示的情況下出了狀況，從傍晚到晚上的短短幾個小時內，右腰到臀部疼痛難耐，右腿麻痺，幾乎無法行走，甚至無法直立。醫生說有兩個可能，一是傷及脊椎神經，二是中風的徵兆。
一時間我還真的無法接受醫生的說法，我自認注重飲食，除了嗜食肥肉和偏愛甜食之外，很少吃高熱量高油脂高膽固醇的食物；我不喜虛飽的快餐，不煙，因酒量淺而極少喝酒。睡眠充足，常保持運動。每年作體檢的報告都顯示身體健康，上個月去捐血時測量血壓也正常。所以說若是中風的徵兆，我唯一想到的可能就是上帝和我開的玩笑。
醫生問及前科，由於我自小學就喜愛踢足球，而且幾乎是天天都踢，直到中學都是如此。後來大學也是靠踢球來消耗過剩的精力。出來做事的開始幾年，時間比較松，就用踢球來殺時間。這些年還不時踢球，最常在週末和孩子們一起踢著玩。中學時學了四年空手道，直到出國唸書才停止。也打羽毛球，現在也偶爾和代表校隊的老二練球。據醫生說，這些都可能是長期對身體的潛在傷害，蓋運動給身體帶來的好處和對身體所造成的傷害是相等的。而傷害最大的，據醫生說，是我二十多年來不曾間斷的跑步。
我當然無法用專業的條件來否定醫生的說法，但我跑步時穿的是有緩衝軟墊的標準跑步鞋，跑前一定會做足熱身跑後會做四肢拉伸以緩和肌肉和筋骨，跑步時是用二呼二吸均勻的呼吸法，肩膀盡量保持水平而不作太大左右前後搖晃，兩手肘不小於九十度，步伐保持等距離前進，腳步不會離地面太高，頭部與地面垂直，雙眼向前，身體完全放鬆等等，我都一一依據跑步的基本要求來進行，傷害照理是減到最低了。
即使我還是懷有很大的疑惑，可我受了傷是的的確確必須接受的事實。這一來，生活必然起了不小的變化，起碼短時間內是不能跑步了。本來還打算和兩個兒子一起報名參加adidas king of the road 短程馬路競跑賽，卻因受傷而無法參加。
我還是比較信任傳統跌打的推拿治療，去醫院照過X光片以確定傷勢和患處之後，再去看跌打醫生。三次推拿之後，腰傷已無大礙，但還是聽從醫生的建議，短期內不要做太激烈的運動，更不要跑步。惟在三個星期後，還是忍不住去跑了一小段，仍感患處隱隱作痛而不敢太大意，長痛不如短痛，暫時以散步替代。
也許這就是歲月給予身體的訊號，叫我需要作些相對應的調整。難怪有位學了多年太極的朋友告訴我，年過四十，不要做太激烈的有氧運動，應該打太極或練氣功，養氣在身，保住活氣。今天回想他的說話，不無道理。
可是當我看見很多比我年長的人經常跑步，甚至參加比賽，我就不得不對自己的身體狀況有些自卑。
一向來，我以為自己可以不斷地跑步，一直跑到去天堂為止。就算不做其他運動，只要有跑步就足夠了，所以叫我放棄跑步可說是一件不可能的事。
現在看來，顯然是過於自以為是的想當然爾。
我喜歡上跑步是從進入大學的第一天開始。
那年初秋，剛到大學宿舍報到，寢室裡沒人但有排好的用品和床鋪，由此知道是我的室友比我先來報到了。到下午室友才回來。由於他比我早來學校，所以對學校有了一定的認識。隨後他就叫我換好運動衣服和跑步鞋，帶我去認識校園環境，包括上課的大樓、活動中心、圖書館、餐廳等等。然後就到運動場去跑步。我們就這樣繞著草場跑道邊慢跑邊聊天，彼此就這樣熟絡起來。這同學也成為我大學時期最要好的朋友之一。
由於我們的學校離市區較遠，沒事都很少外出，連早午晚餐都在學校餐廳解決，這樣時間就會寬裕許多。每在傍晚得空時，我就會到草場跑步。漸漸熟悉的同學越來越多，其中喜歡跑步的也不少，偶爾就結伴一起跑。即使沒有伴，我也可以一個人跑，這就是跑步的好處。因為跑步是可以單獨進行的運動，沒有對手不必拍檔，沒有距離沒有終點，不限時間不限地方，隨心所喜。其實，那時候跑步除了打發空閒的時間之外，也當是排遣一人在外孤單的心情，完全沒有把跑步和健康聯想在一起。
由於跑步是以自己的體能所調整的速度跑，多以慢速進行長距離的跑步，所以也叫慢跑。
以前常有踢足球，雖然踢球前也有繞著草場跑步熱身，但那不算真正純粹的跑步，在技術上和體能上也不符合跑步的要求和標準。
後來發現一個人在跑步的時候，因為沒有人打擾而可以讓精神很專注，心情很舒坦，思緒可以沉澱下來，同時也可以思考，這個發現讓我感到異常欣喜。開始時是因為有些工程科目的問題一直解不來，後就索性放開一邊去跑步，在跑步過程中竟然理出了頭緒而找到了答案。此後我更加喜歡跑步，除了可以思考學科問題外，同時也可以為規劃生活上的細節與安排打個底稿，可以想想要給家人寫一封怎樣的家書，是時候要給哪一位朋友寫封信，這個星期要參加什麼活動還是去看一場電影，甚至可以尋得生活的靈感。即使現在跑步時也同樣可以邊跑邊讓思維活動，鉅細靡遺，海闊天空。
跑步儼然成為大學的其中一門功課。
暑假時更是幾乎每天都跑步，有時在草場跑得不夠過癮，就去跑樹林的山路。即使在冬天或寒假時，只要有時間，我還是沒有停止跑步。跑步於是變成日常作業，一跑就跑了四年，尤其是大學最後一年，一個星期只有不到十小時的課，除了去旁聽文學院的課，每天最重要的作業就是跑步。
這時期我還參加過校外跑步比賽，雖沒得過獎，卻也享受了比賽過程中的美好經驗，也在年少時期留下了一頁美好的回憶。
大學回來初期，每個週末早上，我都會到湖濱公園跑步。那時經常碰到已故貿工部長李裕隆先生，他會很親切友善地和路人打招呼。我發覺他好像每天都會來跑步，是個很注重運動也很有生活規律的人。
日後工作較忙，下班後就在住家附近繞著馬路跑，平均跑一到兩公里左右，到了週末才到公園或球場跑。
有一段時間，因工作地點接近敦拉薩公園，我就在那跑了幾年，後來有一次車子在那兒被爆竊，所有值錢的東西都被偷走，包括太陽眼鏡和外套，唯那小偷還算有點良心，把我的身分證駕照和信用卡留下，這是憤怒之外的一點慶幸和感激，幸好那時我還沒手機和手提電腦，否則，那種精神上的損失，恐怕不是金錢可以衡量。自此以後對那兒治安沒有信心，又改回住家附近跑，既方便也沒有被偷竊的心理負擔。
跑步已經成為我的習慣，也是生活的一部分，甚至像是工作。有時因故或天氣而沒有跑步，總是覺得少做了什麼事情而渾身不自在，有一股癮在心裡頭癢癢的很不是味道。每當跑步過後，就會有一天該做的事情已經完成後的大大滿足感，這天就算沒有白過。
今天我還沒有想過放棄跑步，雖然身體還不在狀態，可只要身體可以，加上時間允許，我還是會去跑步。有人說散步比跑步對身體好得多，甚至醫生也建議應多散步而不要跑步，但我還是覺得散步沒有力道不夠勁不夠umm，怎樣都比不上跑步的淋漓盡致。
巧合的是妻也是長跑好手，我們曾經一起參加過地方性的迷你馬拉松賽，她竟然還跑贏我，害我在朋友面前顏面盡失。
跑步也可說是我們一家人共同的愛好，有一段時間，我們和孩子們每個週末都到武吉加裡爾公園跑步。此外，我們也會到湖濱公園，敦拉薩公園，蒂蒂旺沙公園等地跑步，順便當成遊玩。也因此後來每個孩子都是學校的田徑代表，可長跑也可短跑。目前，偶爾我們也還會一起去跑步，最常是在週末。
我把跑步當成一輩子的愛好，終身不渝。
星洲日報／文藝春秋‧黃建華‧2009.03.01

Training

Date : 1/3/2009
Distance : 3 laps
Timing : 38:21
Venue : DJ