Discount for Tri Factor Registration
I would like to share with you guys some good news. If you have went to the tri factor expo today for the swim pack collection with your friend and thought to your self that, Hey wouldn’t it be cool if I could register for the coming bike event of even all the remaining three events coming up?
Well it is still not too late, I’ve just gotten word and confirmed with the good people of Oakley to bring you additional 15% registration off on Tri Factor Event Registration. Thank you Good People of Oakley
Please login to TRI FACTOR REGISTRATION (clickable) and key in OAKLEY15 at the online registration
Well that’s not all Oakley Singapore also has this initiative where by they are raising funds for the Singapore Cancer Society.
Think about waking up healthy and well to a new day is something which many may take for granted. Not so for those who are fighting the killer disease, cancer. Which is why Actor/Host Randall Tan and his 5 friends want to make a difference by running. The Charity Athletes, Yellow Fellows, plans to run 11 races or more, to raise a target of $15,000 for Singapore Cancer Society. Support the cancer warriors by donating today! Spread the news and play a part in this great cause!
To make a donation, click http://bit.ly/10KgMBY lets support the Yellow Fellows
Have a Great Weekend Everyone !
Oakley at Trifactor Series 2013
Tri-Factor Series 2013
Oakley Singapore is proud to be the Official Eyewear Sponsor for Tri-Factor Series 2013. We are offering Rebate eVoucher on Oakley Radarlock and Oakley Fast Jacket Sunglasses to all registered participants of Tri-Factor Series 2013. We will also be showcasing Oakley Technology to those who wish to discover how Oakley Sunglasses is able to offer you the optimal eye protection as well as to help with your sports performance.
Oakley eVoucher
Exclusively for Tri-Factor Participants! You will get to enjoy a $50 rebate on any purchase of Oakley Fast Jacket or Oakley Radarlock. Hurry and Register for your eVoucher now!
To Get your eVoucher please click here : eVoucher Registration
Oakley Technology Tour
Discover all about the Technology and innovation behind Oakley Eyewear in the Oakley Technology Tour. Register your slot during Race Expo and you will receive an exclusive Oakley Wristband.
To register for your Technology tour. Click Here : Oakley Technology Tour
I’ve already signed up, what are you waiting for ?
Thank you for registering for the Oakley eVoucher Rebate and/or Oakley Technology Tour.
An email has been sent to you requesting for your confirmation so as to ensure that this is not a spam.
Please check your Inbox for the email from us and click on the Activation Link to
receive your eVoucher and/or confirmation to your Oakley Technology Tour slot.
If you do not receive any email, please check your Junk Folder for the Confirmation Email.
We look forward to seeing you at the Tri-Factor Series 2013!
Body Composition Changes
Fitness & Nutrition expert Dr. Rick Kattouf says In order to get leaner, there are five main components that we need to focus on. (extracted from an article by Dr R Kattouf on Training Peaks' site.
1. Build muscle: Losing body fat means that we need to increase our metabolism and in order to do so, we need to build lean muscle.
Smartest Helmet Invented
I’ve read about this awesome invention from my usual tech magazine T3 and I would like to share with you guys, its called SMART, yup just “SMART” This helmet is created by LifeBeam and they teamed up with LAZER to created this awesome helmet. If you don’t like to read which I doubt cause you are on a blogsphere you can always watch the Youtube video below
I believe they have came up with a winning product here and I can’t wait to get my hands on this to review it. Its on sale now but you have to pre-order it from this website, expected delivery is 3rd quarter of 2013 ——> CLICK TO ORDER <——-
The world’s first smart cycling helmet with an integrated heart rate sensor, allowing real time, accurate, hassle-free heart-rate monitoring without using a chest strap!
The SMART platform is lightweight and incorporates a microprocessor integrated with LifeBEAM’s advanced algorithm, a state-of-the-art optical physiological sensor, accelerometer, and full wireless communication capabilities.
The SMART Solution
We integrated our unique sensor & algorithms, originally developed for fighter pilots & astronauts, into the Lazer’s GENESIS helmet resulting in the SMART – a cycling helmet that provides highly accurate, real time measurements of heart rate under normal as well as extreme physiological conditions without the problems inherent to chest straps.
The information gathered by the SMART appears in real time on your mobile phone, sport watch or cycling computer via ANT+ or Bluetooth.
Our sensing technology was built for intense activities in extreme environments and demonstrated highly accurate results compared to the most reliable ECG chest belts in market. It is, therefore, suitable for high performance athletes in any cycling environment.
Heart-Rate Monitoring
Cyclists who want to monitor and improve their performance cannot ignore their heart rate. Personal heart-rate provides a window to individual’s overall fitness.
Heart rate is commonly monitored using chest straps. Fitness watches, cycling computers & smartphones – all provide a platform that can communicate with a chest strap and display heart rate.
But what if you hate wearing that strap around your chest for hours? Straps can chafe, irritate, lose contact and migrate. We now offer the perfect solution – the SMART.
What do you get with SMART?
The SMART will arrive to you ready-to-use with no assembly required.
The systems includes:
- Lazer Sport GENESIS helmet integrated with LifeBEAM sensing technology
- LifeBEAM’s physiological sensor & processing unit:
- Integrated 3-axis accelerometer
- Bluetooth 4.0 or ANT+ Wireless Communication capabilities
- Rechargeable Lithium battery – at least 15 hours of continuous usage
- Weight: 50 grams (0.132 lbs.)
The sensor & technology integrated into the SMART platform will allow future implementation of additional sensing, sound & display features.
LifeBEAM is a startup company comprised of engineers and pilots, passionate about the development of physiological monitoring solutions. We specialize in remote monitoring of multi-physiological parameters, such as heart-rate, blood flow, oxygen saturation and more.
LifeBeam’s first development was a unique miniature sensing platform that was implemented into fighter pilot and astronaut helmets, to monitor their physiological conditions, help them perform better, and in extreme cases – even save lives.
Now you can use this technology during cycling!
What could be simpler than putting on your SMART cycling helmet integrated with our small and almost invisible sensor, and continuously monitoring your heart rate?!
Technology – main features & benefits
LifeBEAM’s core sensing technology is based on state of the art non-invasive optical methods, using miniature components that allow unobtrusive & continuous physiological monitoring. These unique sensing methods enable a high-accuracy measurement of various physiological parameters.
LifeBEAM’s main technological expertise creates applicative solutions that are significantly insensitive to motion artifacts and thus can be used in dynamic environments and under extreme conditions.
So what’s so cool about SMART?
SMART uses electro-optical technology to continuously measure your heart-rate.
The optical sensor is placed on the helmet’s front, gently touching your forehead. The sensor samples the blood pulse in a high frequency and transmits a raw signal to the processing unit, which is placed in the helmet’s back.
The processing unit filters the signal from motion artifacts and, using the communication module, wirelessly transmits the cleansed pulse to your display device in real-time.
AND…YES, IT WORKS WITH MOST DEVICES AND APPS IN THE MARKET!
The SMART is compatible with Bluetooth 4.0 & ANT+ devices – smartphones, fitness watches, cycling computers – and works with most fitness applications, so use your favorite display device or smartphone app for additional functions, such as: average speed, distance, pace, GPS, calories-burned, etc.
Future Developments
We plan to continue developing the SMART, keeping it up to date with the ever-changing technologies, in order to provide the best and most cutting-edge product for our customers.
Integrating a processing unit and wireless communication capabilities opens the door for various additional sensors & features that will be processed in the helmet and transmitted wirelessly to any place!
A few examples for some optional future implementations:
- Additional Functions: Stand-alone device, Crash detection, Bicycle locator, integration with Cycling training apps for additional parameters and more!
- Advanced display capabilities: head up display capabilities just like in fighter pilots helmets!
- Additional Sensors: GPS, SIM, Logger and more!
- Sound feedback features.
Prototyping process
After successfully monitoring a pilot’s vitals, LifeBEAM wanted to expand and reach new horizons.
On one of their weekend rides, two engineers from our team modified our technology and integrated it into their cycling helmets.
Excited by the outcome and the idea of combining our technology with their love of cycling, they convinced the team to pursue their dream.
On the following 6 months, the R&D team worked together to amend the algorithms to suit the cycling environment and develop a kit that could be integrated into a professional cycling helmet while prolonging the battery life, maximizing the duration between charges, and without adding unnecessary weight.
After numerous testing iterations & prototype improvements, we were ready to choose the right helmet-manufacturing partner.
Cooperation with LAZER SPORT
Lazer is one of the top cycling helmet manufacturers in the world with over 90 years of experience (the oldest helmet manufacturers still operating).
With its headquarter in Belgium, Lazer designs, manufactures and markets helmets in more than 50 countries.
Lazer’s GENESIS cycling helmet (in Canada also called GS) is one of the most popular helmets in the world.
Helmet spec:
- Fit System: Rollsys® Retention System
- Construction: In-Mold (6 pieces)
- Ventilation: 19 vents
- Weight: 280g (0.617 lbs) (M) CE
- Certification: CE – CPSC – AS
- Sizes: M-L
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Awards & Recognitions
In 2010, LifeBEAM won the national innovation contest “Ramon Breakthrough”, sponsored by Google and represented Israel at Singularity program at NASA Ames in Silicon Valley.
In 2012, we were honored to participate in NASA’s R&D activity, where our unique sensors were used and tested during different research activities.
In addition, we have performed a joint research at the European Flights training facility in the Netherlands and with a number of Air Forces around the world. - Rewards/PricingWe created a great list of exciting perks that will allow you to enjoy our forthcoming product & technology while supporting our efforts.
The Pioneer Deal: Early Bird (200 available) – $149
The SMART Package: Own a SMART – $189
The Gift package: Surprise your friend with a SMART Gift– $195
The Buddies package: Order 2 SMARTS with your friend or ride buddy – $358
The Group package: Order 5 SMARTS for your cycling group – $845
The Silver Distributor package: Order 20 SMARTS – $2,780
The Gold Distributor package: Order 50 SMARTS – $6,450
Use of Funds
We are asking for your help so we can produce the first run of the SMART and deliver them to our initial customers. If you love cycling, sports, or fitness in general, we would love your support so we can bring the SMART helmet to market and further implement our technologies in new products in the future.
- Join Our Ride!Our team developed the groundbreaking technology, but in order to bring it to mass production … we need your help!
We ask you to help us elevate our project from a working prototype to its final production stage.
New Balance NYC 860v3 Review
First and foremost, Thank you to the New Balance team for loaning this awesome pair of shoe to me and in what good timing it came as well because I was totally pleased as I had my Plantar Fascistic injury recovering about 85% now. I am always used to running in the most thinnest of soles for a couple of months already, especially using the New Balance Minimus Zero Road for all my short runs.
When I received this new shiny box couriered over to me, I was in total ecstasy because it would just be the one to get me back on my feet again.
So whats in it? lets check it out…
It was the new New Balance NYC 860v3 written on the side of the box, Yes Version 3, I saw this baby when I was covering the Real Run event in 2012, It was a limited edition shoe on display at the event, I have to say this shoe was inspired by the graffiti artists of New York. The design incorporates many NYC-centric elements into the shoe, such as a shot of the skyline, name of each of the 5 boroughs and, of course, graffiti art. keep reading and I will show you more in details.
When I first open the box the shoe looks pretty ordinary to me, and then the colors strike me blind, I was like WOW.. this color is awesome when its new and I can’t say enough about the design.
If you have an eye for detail, you would understand why this shoe was limited edition for NYC. A synthetic mesh upper provides lightweight comfort, support and breathability. If you look carefully just right at the eyelet of the shoe, you would see the Grafiti of Staten Island sprayed in green.
Knowing that my plantar fascistic was feeling better, I took this baby out on a spin he first day I received it on my usual 5k route, as I usually run without socks and it was a rainy day I could feel the air flow on this 860v3, and it feels very airy, I do not have the older model to compare but I can sure tell you that this shoe don’t feel sluggish.
Built on a PL-1 last, the 860v3 updates the popular 760 and features a dual density medial post to help control mild to moderate over pronation, I have a mild over pronation but I am trying to correct that and running on mid strike (getting there) so with the help of this shoe I believe it will just help me do so.
Advanced cushioning in the rear of the shoe provides plenty of impact protection for heel strikers. if you are one, but I am sure liking the design on this, if you look at the back of the shoe, you can see all sorts of graffiti going on in the shoe.
Ths shoe is made out of highly flexible blown rubber outsole (see bottom) is lightweight and helps provide a smooth ride, looking at the sole you would see those lugs carved out in flower patterns, this to me prove very versatile when I was running in the wet ground on hard cement, I notice that it provide adequate traction without getting too grippy.
The New York City skyline was one of the design elements incorporated into the shoe, the bright hue green makes it almost fashionable to wear as well as attracting attention. No matter if you are speedy or just a casual runner, this shoe is sure to turn heads.
Small hints of graffiti were worked into the design of the shoe to pay homage to the popular street art that originated in New York City
If the Big Apple doesn’t scream, “New York,” nothing does, Can you spot the Big Apple?
After having run in the shoes for a couple of months, I have to say this was one of the most comfortable shoe I have worn, It could be because
1. I am getting used to running on shoes with less sole
2. Training for races that goes only as far as Half Marathon (only lighter weight shoes will be used, this shoe weighs 11.6oz
This is my 2 cents worth on the New Balance NYC 860v3
The Good
1. The 860v3 has a very durable design which incorporates the PL-1 and Abzorb, I am sure this shoe wont be worn out that fast even if you are a hard hitter
2. No doubt this shoe weighs close to 12oz it feels light
3. This shoe has lots of style and it represents NYC if you are someone that likes fashion, I am sure this shoe will be the one for you.
The Bad
1. As I mention that this shoe weighs 12oz, for me as a lightweight runner I would prefer something in the range of less than 9oz.
2. This shoe won’t be much of a traveling companion as for its size (but I can’t fault that) as its a stability shoe
3. I love Red, and This LTD ETD should come in NY Red.. but it only comes out in this particular colors
So to sum it up here are some technical details you boys would like to know on the Men’s Limited Edition NYC 860v3
Features
- Synthetic/mesh upper provides lightweight comfort and support
- Blown rubber outsole is extremely flexible, light, and helps provide cushioning
- Nufoam application
If you have one do let me know how you feel on yours? tune in for more reviews.
Tri Factor Swim Challenge
Swim drills, swim session and swim post has been popping up on my blog recently, did the swimming craze hit me? did King Neptune came into my dream and told me to swim more often? none of those of course, it is because I have registered myself on 12 of May for the Tri Factor Swim challenge.
Tri Factor includes all the three elements of Triathlon before their full Triathlon even which will be held later in the year. I actually encouraged this as its like a lead up to the actual event, coming in the Month of May the swim event will take place, then in July it will be the bike session, and then run and then full OD.
You can have only so much Triathlon event in Singapore in a Year, even if they have 50 events I don’t think I want to be doing all of them cause its always the same ole same ole.
Just sharing this cute infograph that I had received from Tri Factor reminding people to join the Swim Event this May. Have fun and Stay safe readers.
Why you should learn the Backstroke for Triathlon?
I have always head to the pool doing laps after laps with 80% of front crawl and 20% breast stroke all the time, I am not sure if it was the best way to train as I am only improving those few muscle group. I was a club swimmer, training with the boys doing 50m freestyle competition but never got to signing up for one, have friends who are on the national squad but never took any swim tips from them.
Since I am doing triathlons and Ironman for the love of it, when it comes to the swim part I can tell you,I am definitely not fast even after so many swim sessions, ,sessions after sessions my time never seem to improve. I also never used other strokes like the backstroke or butterfly, never wondered why I need the them for, this conversation between speedy @trimeon and coach @felog in my feed were conversing about backstroke got me intrigued. I went all out and in search for the missing piece to understand why a backstroke was needed in our training session
Twitter Feed Elieen and Felog
So what happens now is that, I am gonna put in post some backstroke drills that I am gonna use and try on my next swim session..
The backstroke is easy to learn and helpful to triathletes for multiple reasons. It counteracts swimmer’s “shoulder slouch” by engaging upper-back muscles and lengthening pectorals, it can provide an opportunity to calm breathing or clear goggles during an open-water swim and it breaks up monotony in the pool. Plus, kicking while on your back serves as good cross-training for major cycling muscles such as the hip flexors, core and quads.
Try these sets:
• 4×75 with 15 seconds rest (25 free/25 back/25 free)
• 1×600 [4x(100 freestyle strong effort/50 backstroke easy)]
• 8×50 on 1:15 (25 back/25 free) descend time 1-4, 5-8
Five technique tips:
1. Tilt chin up and look at the sky. This puts head and spine in good alignment. Do not look toward your toes, as it causes hips to sink.
2. Push hips toward the surface and maintain a steady up and down flutter kick. Keep feet just below the surface of the water. Do not rotate feet with the rest of body.
3. Hands exit the water thumb first and enter the water pinky first. This requires a slight wrist and shoulder rotation as a straight arm moves through the air.
4. Arms enter the water straight up from shoulders and do not cross the center line overhead. Swimming backstroke in a straight line is difficult without following pool lines. Keep zigzags to a minimum with consistent arm placement.
5. The key to backstroke is good upper-body rotation with a motionless head. Try to roll your left shoulder to your chin as the right pinky enters the water and vice versa
drills taken from Triathlete Competitor By Sara McLarty
HAPPY NEW YEAR READERS
The year 2012 has ended, I have to say that 2012 was a tough journey for me with many high and lows, maybe the prediction of the Feng Shui saying that my zodiac year for 2012 will not be good and maybe its true. I wouldn’t say its all that bad. I would say there was more high than low for me , with the coming 2013. I am praying that it will be better.
My birthday just passed, mum, dad and E always celebrates this special celebration of birth with me at home, that is how I celebrate my bday with much peace and quiet maybe that is how I want it? its been many years now that it have been celebrating my birthday with my loved one at home.. counting down either in another country or at home but never at parties or countdown festival, and yes if you are reading it right my birthday falls on the end of the year where Billions of people celebrate with me (that is how I would like to think of it..LOL)
This coming 2013 there will be changes, and this changes to be made will be big or I would say HUGE.. lets just say I am on a journey to the unknown, do wish me good luck and if everything is in order it definitely will change my life for good or bad I don’t know, all I know now is that I will still continue to strive to help beginner runners (wanting to run), people who wanna be triathletes by motivating them this 2013.
To start it off I am donating ten Terry Fox t shirt to runners who have signed up for this event. All you have to do is register at the Terry Fox Website (its Free) and then tell me you want to run (or walk) in the comment box below and will run on this coming 27th January. it would be good if you would be able to donate (any amount) to Terry Fox foundation and I will contact you to hand you the Terry Fox t shirt or even better, ON the day itself. Remember only for the first ten readers in Singapore.
So Remember to Register all you have to do is
1) Click on this website REGISTRATION FOR TERRY FOX RUN
2) Send an email to isaac976@about.me with your T Shirt size and address and I will send the T-shirt to you
3) THERE YOU GO, 2013 started with a run for yourself.
Please come support the TERRY FOX Run. come with your family or your loved one.
About TERRY FOX RUN
The Terry Fox Run is named in honour of Terry Fox, a Canadian amputee runner, who attempted to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. The Terry Fox Run is now an international tradition with countries around the world staging annual events in support of Terry’s dream of finding a cure for cancer. In keeping with Terry’s dream, the Terry Fox Runs are volunteer-led, inclusive, non-competitive and have no corporate sponsors.
Terry was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and raised in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, a community near Vancouver on Canada’s west coast. An active teenager involved in many sports, Terry was only 18 years old when he was diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma (bone cancer) and forced to have his right leg amputated 15 centimetres above the knee in 1977.
While in hospital, Terry was so overcome by the suffering of other cancer patients, many of them young children, he decided to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. He would call his journey the Marathon of Hope. It was a journey Canadians have never forgotten.
After 18 months of running over 5,000 kilometres to prepare, Terry started his run in St. John’s, Newfoundland on April 12, 1980 with little fanfare. Although it was difficult to garner attention in the beginning, enthusiasm soon grew, and the money collected along his route began to mount. He ran 42 kilometres a day through Canada’s Atlantic provinces, Quebec and Ontario. An entire nation was stunned and saddened when, on September 1st, after 143 days and 5,373 kilometres, Terry was forced to stop running near Thunder Bay, Ontario. Cancer had appeared in his lungs.Terry passed away on June 28, 1981 at the age 22.
A Canadian hero was gone, but his legacy was just beginning.To date, close to $S700 million has been raised worldwide for cancer research in Terry’s name through the annual Terry Fox Runs held across Canada and around the world.
Death in Triathlon
Death In Triathlon By Holly Bennett via Triathlete Eurpore
It’s a dreaded headline for anyone involved in the sport—”Triathlete’s Death Mars Event,” and it seems all too frequent.
Why are triathletes dying during races? Is the cause avoidable? Furthermore, how do triathlon’s death statistics compare to those of other endurance competitions? And, most importantly, is there something inherent in the sport of triathlon that is responsible for these deaths? After 12 fatalities at sanctioned races in 2011, and several high-profile fatalities in 2012, USA Triathlon initiated an investigation into the 45 competition-related deaths over the 9 years from 2003 to 2011 to answer these questions.
The fact is that strenuous endurance events result in unexpected deaths, sometimes because of electrolyte and water balance issues or because of undiagnosed cardiac problems. But because most deaths have occurred during the swim leg, a popular suspect in the deaths in triathlon as opposed to the marathon has been swimming-induced pulmonary edema (SIPE). SIPE was loosely cited in the media as a possible cause of death for the athlete who perished in Ironman New York this year, an incident not included in USAT’s study.
SIPE is basically a pressure-induced suffocation in which blood seeps from lung capillaries into lung airspace. It’s a condition typically experienced by fit, well-conditioned athletes. It’s thus a possible answer to why some of the deceased have been experienced triathletes, even though we might expect neophytes to be more adversely affected by the swim leg.
The USA Triathlon investigation, however, reported “no clear evidence” that SIPE is the reason behind athlete fatalities. Nor did it “exclude the possibility of a role for SIPE in the victims’ deaths.”
Why the lack of clarity?
There seem to be two problems at work here. First is the inherent problem of diagnosing an individual’s predisposition towards SIPE. What makes one athlete experience it, but not another, is not well understood by the medical community, and is harder to diagnose than cardiovascular pathologies.
So, fine, USAT is not in the medical research business. That makes sense. Our governing body is not here to “cure cancer” so to speak, its role is to ensure the safety of participants and longevity of all things triathlon.
This brings us to the second problem: the investigation was only able to use cursory information about each death it included. Information about victims’ medical histories, autopsy reports, wetsuit details, water conditions during the swim leg, and water temperature was either incomplete or unavailable. Unfortunately for people wanting more answers, these are critical pieces of evidence in assessing SIPE and its known triggers. Without such evidence the report really should only suggest something to the effect of we do not currently have evidence to address SIPE as a cause.
Hopefully no athletes interpreted USAT’s report as reason not to worry about a mysterious condition. If any did, their fears were mistakenly allayed—the reason why triathletes have died is not-SIPE.
After equivocating about SIPE, the USAT investigation report advised racers to stop and seek help if they experience shortness of breath during the swim leg. That is certainly a good start. But athletes should also know that SIPE, because it impairs oxygen intake, will cloud judgment and thought processes (which are already arguably clouded when in one-track-mind race-mode). So, understanding its symptoms prior to competition is really important. Somewhat thankfully, SIPE has been in triathlon conversations long enough that there are a few online resources (here and here are examples).
My intent here is not to split linguistic or methodological hairs. This isn’t a diatribe against USAT, which in fact made an important first step with this investigation.
Instead it’s an exhortation for more work, understanding, and investigation: care should be taken across the board to provide safe race environments as well as accurate information. If the information doesn’t exist, we have compelling reasons to pursue it, through industry and medical research.
Chrissie Wellington, You will be missed !!
TYR poster
I was shocked when I read on my timeline that Lady Chrissie is retiring / giving up on Ironman a couple of days ago.. to me she was someone that shook the world of Ironman and kinda made it more inspiring to complete an Ironman event, Ironman event it self is famous as it is and there are so many popping out everywhere.. I bet once I drop Chrissie’s name on any triathlete they would know who she is.
Who would not notice her trademark smiles, determination and passion, She has relentlessly promoted this sports and many girls/women took notice of Ironman/Triathlon in the past few years, to me she has this aura of happiness around her when she races or when she speaks to people (not that I have met her but through photographs and video). I am writing this post because she will be dearly missed by lots of girls and guys out there, she gave inspiration to many as she is a role model and idol for most of us. Who is gonna reign on her spot this time.
On her website Wellington wrote: “Over the past 12 months I have had time to reflect and think, about my past and, of course, also of my future. Being a professional ironman athlete has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I have achieved more than I could have ever imagined, and been so fortunate to travel to some beautiful places, compete against the best in the world, and forge many lasting friendships. Those life-changing experiences and memories will stay with me forever.
As an athlete I sought ‘the perfect race’. That race within myself where I dug to the depths mentally and physically, and that hard-fought race with my competitors. The World Ironman Championships in 2011 was the icing on the cake for me as an athlete. It was my ‘perfect race’ and it ‘completed’ me.
My passion for the sport hasn’t waned, but my passion for new experiences and new challenges is what is now burning the most brightly. Hence, I have got to the point where I know that it is right for me to retire from professional ironman distance racing.”
To me Crowie and Natasha Badmann is my all time favourite athlete in the world of Ironman.
Shimano’s Triathlon dedicated Website
Triathlon has been gaining attention over the years and with the help of the Dot M franchise it will only get bigger.
Shimano seize the chance to have a dedicated website just for Triathlon specific and I can foresee them having a dedicated shop just for triathletes. How cool will that be?
Take a look at the font of their webpage.
the website has a feature gallery where you see all the latest happenings for Shimano and you can even link with their Twitter or RSS feed for updates.
Do visit their website at TriShimano.com
I click on the page cause I saw CaitSnow.. LOL.. Have a great week ahead
The New Balance EX 900 GPS watch review
A couple of weeks ago, I was given the chance to review something pretty awesome, and awesome it was… its the New Balance NB900 GPS Watch..
The New Balance EX990 GPS Cardio Trainer with Heart Rate has it all!
This watch is designed for daily training sessions for runners or health enthusiast, the EX900 GPS Cardio Trainer combines all the tools you need to help optimize your results. Track your location, distance, speed and heart rate, then upload your data to help you monitor your development and achieve your personal goals (The information provided could rival the high end HRM watches)
So what comes in the box, I did an unboxing video and I thought I sounded terrible cause was under the weather (Still am). So let me list down the items that comes in the box instead of listening to my voice croak
If you notice that the watch comes with a oddly shaped USB cable its in fact a DATA cable to my surprise, This cable not only sync your info to your laptop, desktop but it also acts as a charger for the watch.
The strap mimics the design of Polar but it is very friendly on the chest as some complains of rubbing when using straps. This strap has no problems on me. If you notice the buckle of the strap at the bottom right. Its as easy as plugging in the clasp together, yes its that easy.
New Balance GPS Trainer Features
The New Balance 900 was designed to give you all tools you need to optimize your results. Track your location, distance, speed, pace, calorie burn and heart rate, then upload the data to your PC to help you monitor your development and maintain your personal goals. The advanced GPS component not only tracks speed, distance and pace, but also has the ability to set routes and waypoints.
- GPS navigation records up to 10 routes with 99 waypoints per route and up to 48,170 trackpoints; 3 navigation modes include waypoint, forward and backward
- Compass features a range of 360° with 16 cardinal point bearings, 1° resolution, digital calibration, adjustable declination and a cardinal point indicator
- Accurately monitor speed, distance and pace
- Heart Rate (HR) continuous reading – ECG accurate HRM
- 2.4 GHZ Digitally Coded Chest Strap for no crosstalk (included)
- 5 customizable HR display presets with 3 line multi-view (via PC or watch)
- Auto or custom set HR zones
- Heart Rate Zone Alert
- Chronograph range 100 hours
- Chrono – 1/100 Second Resolution
- 3 Chrono display presets with 3 line multi-view
- 12,000 Laps / Splits
- 120 Run Memory
- Comprehensive Data Recall
- Auto Lap: Automatically takes a lap at user set distance
- 12-Hour or 24-Hour Time Format
- Time / Day / Date
- Dual Time Zone
- 5 Daily Alarms
- Metric or Imperial Unit Display
- EL Backlight / Smart EL Backlight System
- 30M Watch Resistant
- Rechargeable Battery (Watch) via USB Charging Cable (included)
- User Replaceable Battery (Chest Strap Only)
- Comes with easy to use PC Software
The Design of NB900
The design is one of the highlights for me, it surely does not look like a poorly designed watch but rather something of a futuristic look, I like how it protrudes out on the centre and how fat it looks, I am a chunky kinda guy, surprisingly with the built of this watch it does not weigh you down.
If you look at the buttons of the watch it is flushed into the design of the watch which is a plus point for me, cause I love things that are sleek in design (and functional)
Since this is a GPS watch, I have to say that it relatively locks on the satellite pretty fast infact…. VERY FAST comparing to my other watches from G****** and P**** . Infact it could be the fastest and most reliable (but my EndoMondo software in my phone tops it all)
Despite the chunky design, the watch does not bounce or move around when running, its curvatures molds into my wrist perfectly.
This watch comes with a NB software to be installed on all PCs and MAC, When I first installed the software on my laptop, I thought I needed to hire a rocket scientist to help me configure but it turns out that it’s easy to understand and read my workouts with ease. if you notice the bottom right of the top pic. It shows my regular 5k route. at the bottom center it shows my speed and bottom left there is a summary page which is a clear cut on the exercise of the day that I have performed.
This is a good watch to begin with for those who would like to dwell in HRM watches with GPS, for that pricing, you can only get a HRM watch for other brands. As you can see I even brought it to the recent Home Team NS New Balance Real Run to track.
My two cents worth on NB900 GPS Watch
Highlight
- Awesome GPS response
- Waypoint tracking was good and fun to use
- Watch design was something like a highend watch despite being rubber and plastic
- Buttons are all flushed so it makes it one neat watch
- Whole bunch of tracking software to go along with the watch (like HR, Waypoint, Speed avg, distance..etc..etc..)
- Easy to configure without breaking your head
- Affordable without breaking your bank.
- The battery is rechargeable
- Syncing to the PC was a ease.
- BEST part of this is no battery is needed for the watch.
Lowlight
- Screen background should have been other color beside black as its pretty tough to see
- Buttons are flushed so pretty hard to press (you will get use to it)
- I didn’t like the font (but that’s just my preference)
H2Hub are the main distributors of this cool watch it is only going for a reasonable RRP SGD$399.
for easy reference I have found all of the H2Hub outlets for your convenience
The map word is clickable for ease of navigation to point you to the nearest store. Otherwise you can give them a call
| 1. | H2 Hub Bedok North | | | #02-2000, 3011 Bedok Industrial Park E, 489977 | - Map | - Tel : 6345 6811 | ||
| 2. | H2 Hub Parkway Parade | | | Parkway Parade #B-101, 80 Marine Parade Road, 449269 | - Map | - Tel : 6345 6811 | ||
| 3. | Bedok North | | | HDB Bedok #01-377, 205 Bedok North Street 1, 460205 | - Map | - Tel : 6443 7968 | ||
| 4. | H2 Hub Century Square | | | Century Square #01-K7, 2 Tampines Central 5, 529509 | - Map | - Tel : 6781 0090 | ||
| 5. | H2 Hub West Mall | | | West Mall #01-24, 1 Bukit Batok Central Link, 658713 | - Map | - Tel : 6862 5110 | ||
| 6. | H2 Hub Ang Mo Kio (AMK) Hub | | | Ang Mo Kio (AMK) Hub #B1-77, 53 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, 569933 | - Map | - Tel : 6481 0800 | ||
| 7. | H2 Hub Jurong Point | | | Jurong Point #03-118/119 (JP2), 63 Jurong West Central 3, 648331 | - Map | - Tel : 6397 0702 | ||
| 8. | H2 Hub Nex | | | Nex #01-K11/K12 , 23 Serangoon Central, 556083 | - Map | - Tel : 6634 4900 | ||
| 9. | H2 Hub Clementi Mall | | | The Clementi Mall #03-22 , 3155 Commonwealth Avenue West, 129588 | - Map | - Tel : 6659 9668 |
Ironman 70.3 Singapore
Not sure what has happened to the titled sponsor Aviva as they have always sponsored the event, but this time the page seems to have changed into this …
So whats a triathlete got to do but to wait for it…. wonder how long its gonna take. ..
Singapore Cold Storage Triathlon Post Race Review
The race is finally over, after skipping two run races, I finally did my triathlon after waiting for 4 weeks. That was how long it took my legs to feel better, Special shoutout to Team Triboys Ian Faria and his bro Chris for sending me this neat transition towel. Will be racing Escape from Alcatraz with them soon in the near future. If you wanna hook up for training or racing with the boys you can search Instragam hashtag or on twitter for #teamtriboys and you will definitely see them handsome hunks. Once again thanks boys and see you guys soon.
If you guys didn’t know what happened, lemme clue you in before you laugh at my miserable time, I was training for my “North Face 50k which is held in October” and my feet accidentally ran over a tree root, it angled 90degrees with a very loud crack and that was into my 4k out of my 15k trail run (I finished the whole 15k in pain if you are wondering) It all just went downhill after that. I had my feet X-ray and Doc cleared me, some how or rather the pain still persist till today. All I could train for this Tri event was swim and bike.
So kingdom come came and went. It was good sunny morning on last Saturday. Met with many of the boys before the swim felt a bit humid but its all in the fun. The swim leg got delayed
Swim Segment
Participant had to make two loop for the swim and so how did the swim went? it went something like this.. choppy sea water, got hit in the face on my first 100m with my goggles knocked off my face, water got into my eyes and it stings like mad… got grabbed, groped and whatever you can think of, but hey that is why they call it the “Washing Machine”, you don’t join a tri event to have silky smooth swimming pool water do ya? came out of the first loop and saw my watch for the first 750m, did a 16min but I nearly had a massive cramp when I was near to shore, I stop short of shore line and my legs couldn’t feel the ground, so I was curling my leg to feel ground and with that awkward leg position I nearly had a muscle pull on my calf, you know those massive super cramp. Did not want to put myself in danger and don’t think I can afford a big cramp to my calf on the second loop. I didn’t kick as much on the second lap and I swam cautiously and closely to the line just in case my leg cramps up. Swim time: 43min
Bike Segment
Bike leg is always fun, went into T1 and took my gel and first time I did not place my shoe clipped ready on my bike for fast transitioning as this was a two week old shoe, have not put enough mileage into them shoes yet. Bike loop was an insane six loop over ECP with many dangerous turns (saw a couple of people bleeding pretty badly and bandaged up) … Road Marshal was shouting like crazy saying DANGER .. BIG GROUP AHEAD GO SLOW (er… its a race.. GO SLOW??) well I do hope the revamp the bike segment next time for a better and safer riding race. I was looking at my bike meter and it went like 32 – 34avg that was all I wanted nothing more nothing less and before my last lap I will usually take in some carbs for the run segment and guess what, silly me had to drop my packet of gel on the road, It was a decision for me to pick it up or leave it, I left it (was it a poor decision? I don’t know) Bike Time: 1hr17min
Run Segment
Here comes the moment of truth, I told myself either I die running or I walked to the end in my run segment. went in T2, grabbed my headband put on my shoes, went out running in less than 2min and boy I could (NOT) run, after leaving the run out, massive cramps came into my thigh and I know for sure that without run training it will definitely kill me. Its not that this is my first race.. I never felt cramps this bad before, I practically walked and hop myself for the first 2km or so.. What was I thinking.. four weeks and not even one training on my run.
Never let your head hang down. Never give up and sit down and grieve. Find another way. And don’t pray when it rains if you don’t pray when the sun shines. – Richard M. Nixon
On the 3k mark, a familiar face came behind, tapped and passed me, It was Benny who was in one age group behind, he finally caught me in the run segment (all things going through my head now, thinking of stopping and quitting the race as its going to be a real pathetic race for sure) but I told my self #HTFU and keep going, and so I did.. yes the final run was terrible but I won’t let my head hang in shame. Yes it’s also the worst 10k time ever for me in my running career but I will not let it stop me. I will come back stronger (if my doc cleared me of any problems to my feet) Time: 1hr 17min
Well its the end of the race and I am glad all my buddies was here with me. Not that I am proud of the time, but I sure finished it.. if your wondering yes the pain in my leg still persist. I am heading for an MRI this week. I wont let it damper my mood for me in the upcoming 2013 races that I have signed up for.
PS: word of advice, train before you go for a race. Dont be like stupid me.
Cold Storage Triathlon Race Pack
Saturday is the day I have been looking forward after Aviva Ironman, there was tri events in between but I did not register for any, I had plan for Ironman Kenting (Taiwan) and Ironman New Zealand for this year, but it was scrapped.. so this was the next best thing for me, It may only be a OD event but I hell sure gonna enjoy it. Despite my injury I have not ran for four weeks.
The pain still persist in my foot and even after the X-ray doc cleared me it has not recover, well the show must go on with or without this injury, I have already skipped three events due to this injury but encouragement and well wishes from peeps all around the World sure help me going, sure I was depressed at one time cause of my immobility as all I did was my swim and bike.
A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work. – Colin Powell
Come this Saturday I will be doing the OD without any run training. I hope I can still ace it. So here is the race pack review, I had no time to pick it up and got Eddy to help me on this one, I heard from many participant that the queue was horrendous as they only cramped the usual two days of race pack collection to only one day. One of them said it was a 30 min wait from door to door.
So whats in the bag? Race guide, Race bib, Swim cap, Timing chip with ankle strap and brochures as usual.
The perishable items that was provided in the bag was
- Mission Chips
- Raisins
- Quaker Oats cookies
- Clorets mints
- Maxifuel Power gel
- Nature Valley bar
- Instant oats drinks
- Zappy wipes
- Cold Storage New Balance T (There was nothing printed on the back, maybe to save cost, I dont know)
Check this spot out for the post race review after Saturday. Hopefully I am not too tired.
Wish Me Luck ~!
The Journey of a new Triathlete
Training partners are always great in terms of being motivated and seeking advise.. no matter doing triathlon, Ironman or Ultra running, that is why I frequently used this hashtag #foreveralone cause I am more often than not alone when doing training.
Training for an event demands much from an athlete such as mental focus and more importantly discipline in all aspect of schedule, diet and workout.
I met Zurairi by chance, one day when I was training but I will not expound on that part, as he already had explain of our moment in his featured article. Do read up on his write-up as guest post on his determination to be a Triathlete (if you say you can’t, this post might change you) Do follow him on Twitter @arieternity where he shares his passion for triathlon.
Guest Writer: Zurairi (Singapore) 27 August 2012
My Journey to be Triathlete
After my Kidney Transplant in 2008, (Previous post) , I decided to exercise because my doctor told me to control my cholesterol level. I also wanted to exercise because keeping fit and healthy will ensure lesser complications due to my condition. After 3 months rest from the post operation, I realise my fitness level is very low after I was struggling and panting after climbing the flight of steps at the overhead bridge. I realise that I need to start soon.
I started with very light jogging around my neighbourhood. It was about 1.2km route around my block of flats. My friend also introduced me to swimming. Mr Razib is a triathlete and he taught and coached me the techniques of swimming freestyle. In 2008, I started (more…)
Singapore Triathlon Swim Trials
Eddy had his first swim trials today, Benny and myself kinda pressured him into signing up his first triathlon knowing he could definitely blast through an Olympic Distance (OD) with ease, and registered he did, BUT… he signed up for a sprint instead. .. anyway its better than not signing up !! +1 for you buddy. Singapore Triathlon here we come.
The assurance of knowing he can do a full OD was because he came along with us on our Ironman training, laps after laps he followed albeit not fast he finished it all.. its the spirit that keep us going is it not?
Knowing very well of his timing, where he is able to run a sub 1hr 10k, swim a good 40min 1.5k it’s the bike equation that was missing because he never tag along (and silly me asking him to buy a bike to train with us).. little did I know he already had a bike, sneaky sneaky , I was even shocked when I was told he was a group cyclist with the Joyriderz before, not a member but he tagged along.. really sneaky dude..
So yup today was his swim trials and I met up with him at Kallang Basin swimming complex in Geylang Bahru to give some morale support,not that he needed it but I could get some time in the pool as well.
It started at 7.45am with a short brief and then the (more…)
Please donate to MKAC #charity #donation
Dear All
Please take a moment of your time to look at this post
It is from my dear friend , a neighbour and triathlete buddy is supporting the Muslim Kidney Action Association (MKAC) Ramadan appeal.
He has pledge to donate $100 to the association for this coming Muslim festive season but that is not all, he will do this when he finds 10 runners to run 10km, if you are keen to help in this charity donation, do drop me a comment and I will relay this message to him, as you know he already have one runner on board and no question who that is. You can be anywhere in the World to do this.
So remember:
1) Drop me a comment below that you are keen
2) Ensure you are fairly healthy and able to walk/run 10km
3) Once you have done so, please submit an email to me at isaac976@about.me and I will publish all 10 runners in the post later on when we make the donation. (make sure you are in your workout attire ok)
4) BLESS YOUR SOUL, KARMA 100x returned as I believe in it !!
but before you start thinking that my friend Zurairi is some power triathlete, please read his story here
Story taken from http://www.liveon.sg
Zurairi Bin Samsuddin
I’m married with 2 children, one is 3 years old and the younger one has just turned one.I’m a teacher in a primary school, teaching English, Math and Music.My worries started when my kidney failed in 2007. I started dialysis, but I got tired easily and had to stop work. Since I could not do a lot of things, my whole family had to take care of me.I felt bad about being dependent on other people, even if they were my closest family members. It was a frustrating time for me, to be so helpless and to feel useless. My family was still very young. How could I keep up with these challenges for the rest of my life?That was when I decided that dialysis was not for me.I wanted to be the one supporting my family. I wanted to be strong again, and that meant opting for an organ transplant.My doctor educated my family and I on the procedure involved and the options that were available to us, such as getting a kidney from a living donor who is a family member.
I count myself fortunate that my family was calm about the whole matter and gave their full support. My parents and my parents-in-law went for the blood test and my mother-in-law turned out to be a suitable match.
My transplant took place in January 2008. I recovered quickly and went back to school to teach in May 2008.
To me, organ donation is really the gift of life. I regained my freedom to do anything and everything. I can work again and support my family, and repay them for the love and support they have shown me.
Please do share this post with your colleagues or friends, Do support the Kidney patients. It would not hurt to do some good in some part of our lives. If you would like to donate, please see the below response form or either drop me a comment.
Why Canadian triathlete Paula Findlay has no reason to apologize at Olympics
LONDON — I was at the track, watching Oscar Pistorius, about the time that Paula Findlay, sobbing, made her way across the finish line in the triathlon.
As he was in the starter’s blocks for his 400-metre heat, she was about 10 minutes into the last leg of the gruelling triad of this event, the 10K run.
As he was making history, she was gutting it out through the toughest two hours and change of her athletic life.
Singapore Triathlon 2012 finally has a title sponsor and its…
You didn’t read it wrong, they have updated the upcoming Triathlon event this September, previously it was just Singapore Triathlon and now a Corporate sponsor has finally step up to claim this annual event where most Singapore triathletes is anticipating.
For 10 year in a row, OSIM was the main sponsor on behalf of all triathletes in Singapore, A BIG THANK YOU to you for hosting the event and thanks and truly building the sport to where it is today locally.
All of you who went for 2011 event, you now have a very special momentum , your 10th year anniversary t-shirt. cherish it as it will be the last.
This annual triathlon event in Singapore has always been in August but now its been moved to September, was not happy cause it clashes with Desaru Tri, had to choose one, and this was it it was a week apart, was this a tactical move ? hhhmmm I dont like it.. so you must be wondering who this year main title sponsor?? well wonder no more, we now we have a new title sponsor and this year 2012 Singapore triathlon will be called the ….. (more…)
London 2012 #Olympic Triathlon
This coming 9 am, 4th Aug (Women’s Triathlon) and 11:30am 7th August (Men’s Triathlon) Countries from all over the world will be racing for Gold, Silver and Bronze in the triathlon event. It is going to be a fast paced race with all the accomplished athletes racing for their country.
Just FYI: There are no heats in the Triathlon; both the men’s and women’s events consist of a single race. So who will you be rooting for ? My Take will be New Zealand for Gold, GBR for Silver and US of A for bronze for the mens race. Agreed?
As host nation.. I will post their competing athletes here
And here are the round up for (more…)
Heroes
GEAR REVIEW: The Oakley Radarlock Path
(Article and review by Isaac L.)
Oakley says "YOUR MOVE, MOTHER NATURE" and you wonder why? I recently acquired the Radarlock from Oakley and I have tested out the latest technology of its so called switchlock. Radar is not a new kid on the block and has been around for years, but this time it has been redesigned with you guys in mind.
Engineers Master Bicycle Aerodynamics With the Cervélo P5
At the Olympic level, where cyclists are in roughly the same physical condition, the difference between victory and defeat often boils down to a bike’s aerodynamics. The more smoothly air flows over a frame and rider, the less wind resistance he will feel and the faster he’ll go. Engineers at Cervélo used aerospace-grade computational fluid dynamics software and virtual wind-tunnel tests to design the P5, the most aerodynamic bike ever.
With the software, the team at Cervélo designed, rendered and wind-tunnel-tested dozens of P5 prototypes, before ever constructing a physical model. They identified and refined drag-causing areas. For example, they lowered the handlebars and added internal hydraulic brake cables. They also created a tapered rear edge on the seat post, which reduces turbulence off the rider’s backside, allowing air to flow more fluidly around him. The changes translate to 75 grams less drag than on the P5’s predecessor, a reduction that could result in gains of 1.6 seconds per mile—and a gold-medal run in the 44-kilometer Olympic time trial.
CERVELO P5
Weight 18 pounds
Price From $6,500
