Friday, December 31, 2010

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011


Thursday, December 30, 2010

What will they give to Rajagobal?

It's common for Malaysian goverment to award "Datuk" for athletes whom performed well in international arena i.e Datuk Nicol, Datuk Lee Chong Wei, Datuk Misbun Sidek, Datuk Puch Gunalan, Datuk M.Jegathesan and the list goes on.

So Will Rajagobal be awarded with Datuk? I think he deserves "Tan Sri".

Public Holiday Tommorow (31 Dec)

Our Prime Minister declared that Friday(31 Dec) will be Public Holiday after Malaysia grabbing the 1st ever AFF Cup yesterday.

This is to celebrate the victory of the Malaysian Football team and also the citizens of Malaysia whom cheered ans lauded all over the place (mamak shop, pub, tea stalls, public gym and also at Dataran Merdeka).

My concern is:

1. Is this a political agenda to Ensure BN wins the next election.
2. Why didn't they awarded holiday when Malaysia performed well in Asian Games and Commonwealth Games?

Malaysia Boleh





"Malaysia Boleh" was lauded by the whole country yesterday after grabbing their 1st ever ASEAn Football Federation(AFF) Cup yesterday. Though they lost 2-1 to Indonesia yesterday in the 2nd leg, but 3 goal advantage in 1st leg gave them the trophy with aggregate of 4-2.

95,000 Indonesian fans were there ate Stadium Bukarno, Jakarta with protection from 10,000 police force. They called themselves as "Garuda" and our boys were called "Harimau".

Kudos to K.Rajagobal, for forming such team with average age of only 23. We have never gone past the finals before and it was only once we made it to final, which was on 1996.

Malaysia were always labeled as underdogs has now became the "hunters" for glory. Though it was expected that Malaysia will receive tough fight from the home ground team as they have beaten us before 5-1 in group match, but "King"gobal's boys showed a matured game.

They even manage to stop the penalty kick which was offered to Indonesia. The 1st goal from Safee Saleh gave the Strong impact and confidence that the cup was already in Malaysia's hand.

At least the 2nd leg win would be a consolation for the Indonesians.

Now, we have won the SEA games and AFF Title. Now it's the next challenge wheter our boys can defend the glory.

Kudos Rajagobal! Malaysia Boleh...

Monday, December 27, 2010

KNOW This Sports Person - Datuk Punch Gunalan







Datuk Punch Gunalan(Gunalan s/o Panchacaran) is a former male badminton star of Malaysia and one of the finest combination doubles and singles players that the country has ever produced.

He was a talented right-hander who spent what might have been some of the best years of his playing career competing only sporadically as a student in England. Gunalan did not represent Malaysia in Thomas Cup (the men's world team championship) until the 1970 series in Kuala Lumpur at the comparatively late "rookie" age of 26.

Here Malaysia relinquished its title to Indonesia in the final, 2--7, with Gunalan and Ng Boon Bee in doubles gaining one of the two points. In 1971 Gunalan and Boon Bee were the leading men's doubles team in the world, winning the prestigious All England title, as well as the Danish, Canadian, and U.S. Open titles.

Though perhaps less consistent in singles than he was in doubles, Gunalan was capable of playing it at the highest level. He reached the All-England singles final in 1974, losing in three close games to the iconic Rudy Hartono. He won singles at the quadrennial Asian Games in 1970 and at the quadrennial Commonwealth Games in 1974. Even Datuk Lee has yet to win it.

When he won the Commonwealth Games singles title, he went to the opponent's court to hug him and shake hand. That's his sportsman spirit.

He was the only player turned coach to win Thomas Cup. He was collapsed in Kenya during 1972 Thomas Cup due to diagnosed as having a small lung (half the size of a regular one). He didnt give up, but switch to doubles and won most of the titles around the word with Ng Boon Bee.

He was called P.Gunalan. Later, when he won the Asian Games, the press stated "Punched Gunalan for Gold Medal". Since then, they started calling him Punch Gunalan, which made him to chnage his name officialy in National Registration Dept.

He words are" Love the game, not the Luxury".

HAPPY BOXING DAY


One hand on the CUP

Malaysia got off with brilliant start in AFF Suzuki Cup, after beating Indonesia 3-0 in 1st leg of the finals.

Shafee Saleh became the hero in 2nd half by scoring 2 goals and Ashari scored the other. Indonesia manage to scare Malaysians by going through the net during the 1st half but Christian Gonzalez goal was disallowed.

With 3 goal cushion, they may have a hand on the cup but beware that Indonesians has experience trashing Malaysia in Jakarta.

The 2nd leg will be played on 29th Dec.

Hope Malaysia can win the cup for the 1st time since 1996.

MELAKA COASTAL RUN - 26 DEC'10

This was my season ending race. Thus, I wanted to leave mark and make it a sweet finishing. It was also my first race in Melaka more over in Southern region.

I left with Kei Ming on Saturday evening and stayed near Jonker Street. The traffic within Melaka city was terrible, mainly due to Jonker walk events. I manage to reach the Ayer Keroh Toll within 1 hour 30 minutes, but to reach to Jonker street took another 2 hours.

After our dinner, we went through Jonker Street and witness the happening moments and bought some dodol.

The next day, we had to park abt 500M before the starting point itself. The race was officiated by CM of Melaka, Datuk Ali Rustam. I thought the route would be a flat one, but it had a flyover which broke the group.

As the race started, I maintained my position within top20. The route went through Mahkota Parade and the coastal side of Melaka. Thus I could smell the sea side and dead fish. After 500, I ensured nobody overtakes me. They had ushers along the way and also one water station in between.

After coming through the overhead bridge, I new I had to finish the race as the finishing line was only 1km away. Thus, I increased my pace and manage to overtake around 4 runners before reaching the finishing lane.

As I reached the finishing lane, no numbers were given to me. They only award it to top 5. So I have to wait for the certificate which will be sent via mail.

My timing was 24:26 for 6km.

Finally, we headed back to KL after our breakfast as Jonker street.

Friday, December 24, 2010

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Malaysia in FINAL

Malaysia made it to finals after lapse of 16years in AFF Cup. They went to Hanoi to meet Vietnam with 2 goals advantage and the 2nd leg went with goal less draw. This brought them to finals with aggregate of 2-0.

They will be facing another favorite, Indonesia whom beat Philippines in similar scoreline.

K.Rajagobal now eyes on the cup after waking up from heavy defeat by Indonesia and beating Vietnam and holding the Thai.

It Will be a great achievement for Malaysian Football for the year after doing well in Asian Games and the friendly against South Korea.

They will play on 26th at Bkt Jalil and end leg at Jakarta on 29th.

BN's Awal Muharam gift

I realised that petrol price increased by 5 cents to RM1.90. It was done in a quiet manner as they don't want to tarnish the BN image.

Though the global oil price has increased from USD66.85 to USD88.81 per barrel and expected to reach USD100 by end of the year. In addition to it, Petronas posted profit of RM67.3bil compared to RM89.1billion in FY2009.

But what about the reserves that the country already had? Has all this politicians ate it and they are hunger for more? Looks like they need more funds for Tenang by election which is going to happen soon, to buy the votes and show the Malaysians that they are the "Pirates of Carry-BN".

Pakatan Rakyat' Resolutions

1. A restructure of institutions including the Elections Commission (EC), the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), the Attorney-General’s Chambers and the Royal Malaysian Police. During a debate on the policy framework, DAP’s Anthony Loke said PR bring the MACC under the purview of Parliament.

2. A repeal of the Internal Security Act (ISA)

3. Instruct Khazanah Berhad, Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and other government bodies to take over highway assets from the concessionaires in order to abolish the toll system.

4. A restructure of the country’s subsidies, to lessen subsidies given to the private sector (such as the RM19 billion in gas subsidies given to independent power producers) and transferring these to subsidies for the man on the street.

5. Acknowledging the role and sacrifices of civil servants by studying the current pay schemes and increasing the incentives for teachers by RM500 a month

6. Transferring private water concessions to the government

7. Offering free wireless Internet access to those in urban and semi-urban areas

8. Cancelling Felda Plantations and opening up its farms to second- and third generation Felda settlers.

9. Increasing oil royalty payments to Sabah, Sarawak, Terengganu and Kelantan to 20% cent from 5% currently.

10. Formation of a Royal Commission to solve the problem of illegal immigrants and citizenship issues in Sabah and Sarawak.

Source: Malaysia Chronicle

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

MALAKOFF RUN - 19 Dec'10

I was not focusing on this run after having tiring week of Tibi Run and Biathlon. Furthermore, I had only 4 hours sleep after coming back from my company annual dinner.

As all the finisher will get a medal, I decided to take it easy. So I started from the middle with Chun Ming. I was merely jogging for 1st 2km. Then I followed Sadik, my former colleague. Then he said that he is making me slow, so I decided to increase a bit of speed to overtake the people in front of me.

I knew the route is going to be tough at Bkt damansara. it's my 1st time running in that route. I didn't had any pressure as I was overtaking all my running friends after that.

There were adequate marshals and water stations along the way. As I reached finishing, they asked me to go to goodies bag centre. It contained:

1. One bottle of Gatorade
2. One box of Cereal
3. One bottle of shampoo

Of course, during registration, we got the branded vest.

All these may cost more than RM50, which is above our registration fee of RM50. BUT we don't really need all these.

Perhaps the organiser can reduce the price by just giving us the medal would do rather than giving all above.

Anyway, my timing was 1:02 for 12km with slow jog for 1st 2km.

Aiming to finish the year with a bang in Melaka Coastal Run next week.

Think Positive

Once there was loving couple traveling in a bus in a mountainous area. They decided to get down at some place. After the couple got down at some place the bus moved on.

As the bus moved on, a huge rock fell on the bus from the mountain and crushed the bus to crumbs. Everybody on board was killed. The couple upon seeing that, said, "We wish we were on that bus" Why do u think they said that?

-------- --------- -- Answer !!!! ------------ -----

If they had remained on the bus instead of deciding to get down, the resulting time delay could have been avoided and the rock would have fallen after the bus had passed ..!!!

Think positive in life always and look for opportunities when u can help Others......

Many times in life, the opposite of Success is not Failure, its Quitting.

Winners never quit, quitters never Win....

Thursday, December 16, 2010

BN got back TWO THIRD majority

Dirty works worked again for BN when Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Azmin Ali, R.Sivarasa and Karpal Singh was suspended for 6months from Parliament. This means BN regain its two-third majority(temporarily) since March 2008.

As usual, when UPCO issue was raised, our Yang Di Pertua Dewan Rakyat, chased out those 4 MP as they were against that issue. The proposal was made by another crook, Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz .

So the monkey show will begin from now till next general election. "Pirates of Carry BN"

Malaysia got past Vietnam

Mohd Safee Salleh became the hero last night when he scored 2 goals against Vietnam in semifinals of Suzuki Cup for 1st leg. When audience were expecting a tough match, it happened. The visitors were defending and playing counter attacks. The 1st half became scoreless but K.Rajagopal boys were geared for 2nd half. Proper strategy btw midfielders and strikers made it when both goals could not be controlled by the Vietnam goalkeepers.

Now, Malaysia will be travelling to Hanoi to play their 2nd leg on Saturday. They just need to keep the score in draw or loose with 1 goal margin. Hope we can go to final after 14years.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Chin Woo Biathlon - 12 Dec'10

I missed this race last year as I was down with fever and flu. Thus, I made it a point to compete and complete the race this year. Though, I had another race yesterday, I wanted to take part in this race as it's unique on it's own.

When I get there, I met Jeff Ooi today morning and was having my power bar as my pre race supplement. Then we went and checked out our name list and there were 42 of them in my category. Perhaps, most of them opted for Asia Masters Run at Dataran Merdeka which was held simultaneously.

We got our body marked with the number. As the advices received from other participants, they told me that only if you are a Triathlete, you can go fast or push yourself, else, just enjoy yourself. I took their point as I never competed in any swimming competition before. Furthermore, I never went for any swimming class nor knows the proper technique.

My category started at 8.30am which was after the kids and juniors category. It was good that they started in time. During training I clocked 40minutes for 600m, damn, so I thought I may clock 1 hour for 800M during competition.

They awarded me lane 3 and I had to share with another participant. When I got into the pool, damn, I was drowned as the height was 2.5metre. Then only I realise, the 1st 5 lanes will be the deepest as its used for diving.

The marshal asked me wheter I'm alright. I requested her for shallower lane so that I can swim confidently. Then another marshal came by and said no problem and changed me to lane 18 which was only 1.4 metre. The marshal also said, don't worry, you are here to enjoy the race and be courage full to finish the race. Another participant beside me, told that, top 3 winners will b e the triathletes, so why worry, just take it easy, furthermore, its your 1st time, so just get the exposure.

As the race beginned, I went slow. After 750M, the marshal said I'm done with race, so I can continue the next discipline. I quickly, put on my shoe and just hold the running vest and got off from the pool. While I was heading to Jalan Hang Jebat, I wear my vest and there you go for 3 loops of 6km.

When I was swimming 300M, the 1st guy came out from the pool. Wow, that guy was actually the Malaysian Athlete whom participated in Guangzhou Asian Games. As I was one of the last swimmers whom came out from the pool, I had to catch up with the rest. While I was going for 1st loop, I manage to overtake 2 runners, so that gave me a boost.

At 2nd loop, another few runners I over took and when I was at the final 500M which was killing high hill, I was still manage to overtake another 2 runners. The route was ups and downs of the hills, but there were good support from the marshals whom were cheering for the runners.

My running experience gave me a bit of advantage to overtake the slow runners and able to get top30 although I don't know whats my exact position. But as I finished the race, I clocked 1:00:49 and I really felt satisfied for the competition itself.

Another milestone in my life.

Looking forward for Mallakof run next week.

Saturday, December 11, 2010

TIBI Run - 11 Dec'10

After 2 weeks without any Tournament, I went for this race to give me some moral boost. Though I knew I will have another back to back race which is Chin Woo Biathlon, but I still wanted to test my recovery and fitness level.

As the race stated 7km, I thought it would be the normal route. As the race started, I made a moderate beginning and catch up after 1km. Upon reaching Tijani hill, I saw runners turning right side, when normal route is actually straight. So, I just followed the crowd. Then, there was a left turn which gave a grand challenge to all of us.

There was a steep slope going upwards around 1km which really gave us a challenge. I tried to push myself, but really my strength was lacking at uphills.

I followed Bee Hoon from the half way mark. There was a water station just after the hill, which enabled us to refresh ourselves. Upon reaching Parliament, I increased my pace and broke away from Bee Hoon and the pelathon and just pushed myself towards the finishing lane.

My timing was 33:34. I knew the distance wasn't 7km but more. Though they didn't give the placing, I knew I was in top 20 which was within my expectation.

At least was a good preparation for my Biathlon tomorrow.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

My 1st Day at new place

When I went into the firm, the HR manager came and gave me some brochures for me to read together technical materials.

Then came in one of the partner in the firm, Esther whom was from Arthur Andersen previously to brief me abt the firm. She was kind enough to brief me abt the history of the firm, the culture and my portfolio.

The the HR manager gave me my access tag together with parking tag. She went on to introduce me to all the partners and directors and also to other managers and staffs. Though the firm has only around 150staffs with 3 partner and 6 directors, but the environment was cosy.

The managing partner was humble to bring me for lunch with other directors around me. But I didn't feel the pressure being surrounded by big shots of the firm. Maybe because they are soft spoken or gentle or professional.

Of course , I was given my own cubical, with my ext, printer, fan and laptop.

From what I had communicated with my colleagues, they had friendly environment though it's stressful but, no torturing, scolding in harsh words, acting unethically.

End of the day, I was given my portfolio of companies which I will be handling and my immediate job was to handle an IPO.

Hpoing for betterment here.

Good Bye EY, Hello MAZAR

My new heaven:


Good Bye to the Hell:


Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Rich can Win

I was witnessing the selection of host for 2018 and 2022 World Cup football which was held at FIFA Headquarters, Zurich.

2018 bidders were:
1. Spain-Portugal
2. Holland-Belgium
3. England
4. Russia

We knew that Rud Gullit (Holland Legend) came to Malaysia to actually persuade AFC to vote for them.

David Beckham, Fabio Capelo and Tony Blair was there at the voting Zurich to give moral support.

Holland, Portugal and England has hosted the event, but they took a diffrent strategy to join as co host so that they can share the burden.

However, Russia was annouced as the host and they were the last team to do their presentation. In their presentation, they said that, there wont be any VISA for those whom are travelling tl Russia during that period. In addition, whoever purchases football match ticket will receive free ride in LRT through0out moscow during the season.

In addition, they stated in their speech gthat gthey are making difference by cultivating miore children into sports and building the future. The Deputy Prime Minister, Yelena Isinbayeva (Pole Voult Champion), Roman Abramovich (Chelsea Owner) and Andre Arshavin (Arsenal Player)were there to do their presentation.

Then came 2022 World Cup host announcement. The bidders were:

1. Australia
2. USA
3. Japan
4. South Korea
5. Qatar

I knew Japan, S.Korea and USA were out of cintention as they have hosted the event before. So I though Australia would win.

When I heard the results, Qatar won the bid. World Cup will be going to middle east for the first time ever in history.

They are oil rich country, same goes to Russia. I don't know if FIFA was bribed by these countries but I can say that money do play a factor.

Bambang Gave sent Malaysia to Semifinals

Malaysia had to win and was also hoping Indonesia to beat Thailand in order for them to qualify for semifinals. And that's what happended. Bambang Pamungkas whom was playing for Indonesia converted 2 penalty kicks and sent Thailand packing.

When Thailand took the lead during 1st half, it was as if one of their leg was already in Semifinals. But 2 silly mistakes by the Thais costed the them a place in next round.

Malaysia went all out to qualify for the next round. They took the lead but immediately leveled by Latioans. But Rajagobal boys were determined to take of the Asian Games blunder to get back their pride. At last the beat Laos 5-1.

Waiting them in semifinals will be either Singapore, Vietnam or Philipines.

Malaysia has never won the title after seven attempts and qualified to final only once which was during the inaugural championship in 1996

Here's how they fared prevoius championship and the coaches

1996: 2nd place (Wan Jamak Hassan)
1998: Group Stage (Hateem Sousi)
2000: 3rd placing (Abdul Rahman Ibrahim)
2002: Semifinals (Allan Haris)
2004: Semifinals (Bertalan Bicskei)
2007: Semifinals (Norizan Bakar)

2010: ???? (K.Rajagobal)

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Uncle Sam's achievement

1. 900km PLUS Highway
2. Penang Bridge
3. Privatising Telecommunication, electricity and Post (Now we have TNB, TM, Pos Malaysia Bhd)
4. Or course eating Indians money by creating Maju Institute of Educational Development (MIED) & Tafe College which created gangsters rather than graduates.

And of course, being in every Malaysian Indians tongue that made breakups in his family and health and to his overall image.

TOLL SAMY Goes off Finally

6 December 2010, will be another historic day for Malaysians, especially the Indians in Malaysia. Datuk Seri S.Samy Vellu aka Uncle Sam / Toll Samy finally steps down as the MIC President after keeping the hot seat for 31years and becoming the longest serving party president of any Malaysian Political party.

His baton will be passed to his deputy, Datuk G.Palanivel and the new Deputy will be HR Minister, Datuk Dr.S.Subramaniam.

His term as President suppose to end on March 2012, but he opted for resignation as the pressures from public, media and political parties has increased. His major setback for his resignation was the HINDRAF which brought MIC to be drop dead like shit and he lost his seat for the 1st time since he conquered the seat.

He said that,"I am still an MIC member and will continue to help Malaysian Indians"

“I am happy that I am leaving the party to Palanivel. I felt that there should be a leadership change in the party and I was ready for this,” he said, adding that his successor, who was not new to the party, would be able to face all challenges
.

I just wonder, even if he is MIC member, nobody is going to give a damn abt him, but he will be still controlling G.Palanivel as he is his man. We all know that Palanivel is pretty soft and don't have much leadership achievements to be shown or to be proud.

So looks like we are capable of seeing Samy Vellu's puppet show.

Uncle sam also will be a foreign envoy as he will be in charge to get Malaysia some good business deal.

Damn, this was what Najib gave him as a bribe for him to resign from MIC post.

Monday, November 29, 2010

Zai Jian Guanzhou, Ahn Young Incheon

15days of thrills came to an end last Saturday at Guangzhou. 45 countries took part in 42 sports.

China the powerhouse of Asia and overall champion in 2008 Beijing Olympics, showed their supremecy again by bagging 199gold medals. The nearest contender, South Korea, could only manage 76golds.

During the closing ceremony, with a team of "Chinese in Water" showed countries that the chinese have stammed their mark from the past, i.e Indonesia, Mongolia, Taiwan, Hong Kong etc.

I liked the way they brought down the Asian Olympic Council Flag, which was in proper with obidient way of respect to the flag. The mayor of the city,organising comitte chairman and the Olympic Council member of Guangzhou handed over the torch, Asian Games Banner and Asian Olympic Council Flag respectively to the next host from Incheon, South Korea.

It was good that the country spaced out its developement to various city rather than just focusing on Beijing. They have organised it at Shanghai. Now, at GuangZhou. Even when Thailand organised it's SEA Games, the host was not only focused on Bangkok, but also Chiang Mai (95) and Korat (07).

Our country made its best finishing ever by meeting the target of 9 gold medals but alot of home works to be done for next Olympic Games in two years time for our maiden gold medal.

CICM Run - 28 Nov

I was down with flu courtesy of Penang Bridge. for the whole week and my muscles were also tired after that run. Thus I decided to take it easy for the upcomig CICM Run. Furthermore, as long I finish within 1:30minutes, I will be entitled for a medal. So why worry?

As the race started, I went on jogging pace and let whoever wants to overtake. The route was mixture of hills and flat route where it went through the highway and housing area of Bkt Jalil.

I was pacing the cap ayam runner from 2nd km onwards. After the first water station, I tried to increase my pace a bit so that, I can come out from the big pelathon behind. Kevin Chow was pacing with me and upon reaching the final 500M which was at the MSN, I pushed myself and overtook Kevin and the chap ayam runner.

I was awarded 46th placing with timing of 52:53. Wow, even, with slower pacing, I manage to get into top 50. i relised, I was at normal condition, I would have got into top 30. It's alright, more races to come in Dec.

Monday, November 22, 2010

200 didn't misses but fail to plan

"More than 200 people, mostly holidaymakers, missed their flights after arriving late at the Penang International Airport because the Penang Bridge was closed for the annual marathon.

Many cancelled their holiday plans and some had to buy exorbitantly-priced last-minute flight tickets to make it to their destinations.

The Star’s offices in Penang were swamped with calls from unhappy passengers who missed their flights, many arguing that they left for the airport early to avoid the heavy traffic." The star 22/11.

My Comment

This event is an annual event which has been taking place for the past 20 years. How come this issue was only raised now. For tourist, you should know that, this event will be taking place way before you plan your trip.

Looking at this news, plus a statement by "Tourism Minister', Rais Yatim saying that "tourism has dropped for the past 2 years" and added with buah pala case. I think, the current BN govverment is triying to tarnish the Oppositions stronghold. In addition, I was there at Penang, and the transport system was organised and not like KL, where if Im coming to Damansara, I have to take 3 busses plus LRT plus taxi.

The heritage buildings were gazzeted under UNESCO. The city itself was clean. So the public said that the current goverment is more people oriented and they did within 2 years on things that BN couldnt do it for more than 20 years.

So rather than just reading the BN approved newspapers, it's time for us to read blogs and websites which speaks for people.

Penang Bridge Int Marathon - 21/11/2010

My first Penang Bridge Marathon . I was eager to participate and it ended in mixed feelings.

The race started at 3am for 21km which was officiated by YB Lim Guan Eng. I took a slow start as I was stuck in the middle, where some runners were only walking/jogging, when they were suppose to run.

After 500M, I manage to come our from the group and took off a decent pace. My mistake was, I didn't study the map properly, thus I didn't know, where to sprint and where to maintain my pace. However, I had rough idea that, the "U-turn" at the bridge will be the half way mark and after completion of the bridge will be the final 5km.

I was pacing a black suit man, he looked old but his pacing kept increasing towards the bridge. When I was at the bridge, it was steep reaching the mid point. I only realise it when I run on the bridge. While running on the bridge, I could see the front runners on the opposite direction. I couldn't follow up with that black suit guy, so I had to leave him.

At the half way mark after U-turn, I clocked 46 minutes ++. So I thought, I'm still within the target timing of 1:45. Upon U turn, I could feel cold air,although the sea smell was there. That cold wheter was refreshing. Then I heard a thunder sound followed by lightning. That's where the agony started. It started drizzling when I was at 11km mark. Upon reaching, 12km, I started raining like cats and dogs.

I was fully wet. The soaked into the water and it was as if I was running with water bag tied on my leg. The advantage of the rain was, we were not dehydrated and our body temperature was still cold, but due to the weight, it was a hinder to my running pace.

Towards the final 5km, I was with Gejanthan. It was good that he paced me till the final 1km, and i realise, I have to give all out. So I broke away from him and that push made me to overtake at least 5 runners at the last 1km.

The beauty was, me and Women Champ, Emilia crossed the line together.

When I checked my timing, it was 1:47.11. Damn, my personal worst.
Upon the race, the rain didn't stop. I really felt sorry for the marathon runners. Running 6 hour in the rain.

Upon collecting my medal, I was sharing my experience with stanley and Kelvin. Then, I just got off from the venue, as my eyes couldn't take it anymore.

Good part abt the race:
1. Had shutter bus from Jetty (convenient for me)
2. Had officials at every km, although raining.
3. Officials were still serving water although they are in rain coat.

Point for improvement:
1. to have distance marker at every 2km at least.
2. to place water station at every 2.5km after 5km mark (we don't need water at first 2.5km)
3. to give out power gel/power bar before or during the race.

It was another agony when I was heading back to KL. After finishing my stuff in Penang, I took the ferry and reached Butterworth at 4pm. Most of the buses were full and some buses will only leave at 5pm or later.

As I wanted to get out from the city, I took a sweeper bus which left at 4.30pm. I estimated the bus to reach at least by 9pm. All that went up smoke, when heavy traffic started from Taiping right until Tanjung Malim. It was moving inch by inch at certain point. One of the reason was due to a lot of people heading back to KL after the Raya Haji break. I addition, there was also a road block at Sungai Perak.

To add the icing, my phone battery was dead and i couldn't even send sms to my home. Luckily, the bus stopped at Simpang Pulai for dinner break and I quickly ran into toilet to charge the phone, so that I can send a sms to my home.

Finally, I reached Jln.Duta at 11.30pm and walked all the way to Jln. Ipoh to catch a taxi.

Anyway, it was a great learning experience, and gave me a thought wheater I should go for the marathon next year.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Malaysia ended 40 years Drought

Yesterday, "Negaraku" was played for the 1st time after lapse of 40 years in Asian Games veladrome. Azizulhasni Awang was the hero when he pedlled in a mounthwatering race. Josiah put the icing on the cake when he grabbed the silver medal.

When I was watching the race, there were 2 Chinese, 1 Japanese, 1 Iranian and our boys at the race. As the gun shot, the Chinese took the lead during the repecharge and towards the actual race, Azizul took the lead and followed by the chinese rider and Josiah blocked the other Chinese rider behind. But it was really close.

As It went to 2nd last lap, the Chinese rider whom was blocked by Josiah has scratched with him and fell and caused the Iran rider to had crashed with him too.

Luckyly, the Japanesee made a quick move to avoid the accident.

This made Azizul to lead the race till the finishing and Josiah made the sweet finishing by dipping by few inches infront of the other chinese rider.

The previous winners were Ng Joo Ngan (road race) and Daud Ibrahim (1.6km mass start) in 1970 Asian Games.

What I can say was, we can produce world beaters and also have good teamwork. Malaysia Boleh.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Maiden Penang Bridge Race

This Sunday marks my 1st race for Penang Bridge. Though I'm taking part in half marathon category, it's my only 3rd half marathon race this season after GE20km and KL half marathon.

My aim as usual to gain eposure running at early in the morning and to do a decent timing of 1 hour 45minutes or below.

Hope this will spur my sprit for to train harder for 2011 season.

Loser in Game, Winner in Heart

We may have lost the match against Iran by 3-1. But we still manage to strike a goal against our opponent with a weak team.

We went into the game by having 3 injured players in 1st 11 then substituting them in 2nd half. The opponents could have tought that they may score half dozen goals, but our boys made them to wonder when, the game ended in goalless draw in 1st half.

That amazed them and made them to work harder in 2nd half to spot our mistakes and punished it with the goals.

Even, Iran's coach admitted that, if Malaysia could have fieled their actual 1st 11, it would been a different game.

Malaysia had some teenagers from Under 21 team and they could play another Asian games in 2014. Though we lost 3 matches and won only one, but we staged a reat show and prooved the rest that we had the courage to suceed.

Welldone Rajagopal and his team.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Long Run @ 14 Nov

It has been a month since I went for long run. Thus, I forced myself to wake up early to get back to training. As part of Penang Bridge Run training, I joined the other pacemakers.

As we started, I followed from the back with Stanley. Then I realised the group was getting faster which was lead by Poh Chye, followed by Ronnie,Kenny and Michelle.

However, I maintained 100M gap between them and went on with the pace. Upon reaching IRB, the pace increased and the gap widened to 400M. I didn't bothered abt it. As i reached Hartamas square, realised, Po Chye was left alone, so I caught him and reached the pit stop together with timing for 50minutes.

After 5minutes break, journey continued and this time, I let the rest to move first and followed them behind. Upon reaching, Stadium Tun Razak, Kenny, Ronnie & stanley just pushed their turbo and broke away from the group. This leaves me, Poh Chye and Michele to pace each other.

After Tijani hills, I had no other choice but to increase my pace, thus left Michlee, Poh Chye and other runners behind to catch up with the front group. As I reached Bank Negara, I could see Stanley in front of me at Bank rakyat abt 150M. It's do or die mission, so I just increased my pace and reaching at lake gardens entrance, I overtook him and went on till the finishing line.

What a great finishing with timing of 1:38 for 20km.

Will carry on with light training for the rest of the week before heading to pearl of orient.

K.Rajagopal may play for Malaysia

"Can I play for the team?", lauds the coach. This is after realising the team with only 8 outfieled players with another 2 goalkeepers. With total of 16players, 3 got red card and 3 got injured. All due to Chinese team.

And now, K.Rajagopal will be facing mighty Iran tonight in 2nd round and he has no reserves left on the bench.

The contingent has submitted letter of appeal to AFC to allow to suspended players to play tonight. Lets see what happens.

11 Chinese Plus 1 Australia to Beat Malaysia

Malaysia created history by qualifying for 2nd round in Asian Games football after 3 decades. But they had to pay heavy price for it.

I was watching the match 2 days ago, and felt that Malaysia, really put up a good show against the host. The Man of the Match was none other than the One sided referee, Ben Williams of Australia.

Just within 3minutes into the game, malaysian player, Mahali was shown yellow card for fouling the Chinese player. When Mahali lost his composure and kicked the ball away, it was because he felt a sense of injustice as it should have been Malaysia's throw in. He was awarded 2nd yellow card and walked off. That's fine.

The drama started when the skipper, Shafiq tried to protest for his team, and he was also awarded straight red card. Damn, 2 red cards simultaneously.

Malaysia had to play the next 42minutes with just 9 players. And the score was still 0-0.

Going into 2nd half, 2 of the Malaysian players were fouled and got injured but Mr.Ben just awarded free kick without raising any cards.

The Chinese could only broke the deadlock at 61st minute and 10minutes later for 2nd goal.

Mr.ben became brutal again when he awarded 2nd yellow card for tapping a player from the back (not as bad as Nigel De-Jong's karate kick). And awarded a penalty which got the host their 3rd goal.

Damn, The Chinese team + 1 Aussie need to combine to beat 8 men Malaysia by 3 nil.

Just wonder, if it was 11 vs 11. malaysia could have wiped the host away.

Whatever, Kudos to Malaysia team. At least we have shown our progress and proven we are the real men compared to those chickens. "King Gopal", you saved the pride for the country.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Ernst & Young became the MOST Wanted company

I am very pleased and extremely proud to share with you that Ernst & Young Malaysia has been voted Malaysia's 2010 Graduate Employer of the Year!

The results were announced on 3 November 2010 at the Malaysia's 100 Leading Graduate Employers Awards 2010 graced by Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Higher Education,Yang Berhormat Dato' Dr Hou Kok Chung.

The Awards celebrate the most sought after employer brands as well as recognise the effort that employers put in to make their organisations attractive places to work in. The results are based on the Malaysian Graduate Barometer 2010 powered by Trendence, Europe's leading employer branding and recruiting research institute.

I was informed that the huge poll surveyed Malaysian students across campuses in Malaysia and overseas as well as graduates who have entered the workforce in the last one year.

Top 3 were accounting firms followed by bank and Oil&Gas.

Please go to http://malaysias100.com for more information.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Will Ku Li be the next Prime Minister?

Recentlly, we winessed UMNO recapturing Galas state assembly seat with assistance of Ku-Li. Once an opposition man, now a pro-Barisan, has still got the power to attract the public at the age of 73. Though, Kelantan is govern by PAS, but his territory of Gua musang is still untouchable.

Now, public look up to him and says that he maybe the saviour of UMNO, when our Jibby is strugling with his 1Malaysia "make up" plan to cover so many national issues.

His num 2 is also mortifiying with racial issues, looks like Our Ku Li stands a ood chance to challenge Muhidin for Num 1 post in future.

New Insect in Malaysia




Gerakan president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon promised to change his laid back "tai chi" leadership style to a more aggresive "praying manits kungfu"."

I might have been more of a 'Tai Chi' leader because I learnt this martial art since I was nine. But now I have learnt the "praying mantis kungfu" where my younger brother is my coach.

So he is no more "Mr.Nice Man". Watch out Lim Keng Yaik.

KNOW this SPORTS Person - Haile Gebrselassie

The world record







He was born and brought up in a farm. He runs to school with distance of 10km and back another 10km to home.

He started his international arena in 1993 and won 4 back to back world championship. He took part in 3 Olympic Games and finally retired from the track on 2004.

When people thought he would go for coaching or seting up business after his retirement, he shocked everyone by saying that he is going to compete in road races. he started competing in Marathons in cities such as Amsterdam, Berlin, London, New York.
He has won 4 back to back Berlin Marathons and 3 back to back Dubai marathons.
At the age of 35, he still made everyone to take bite their words by cracking the world record for marathon with the time of 2:03:59.

Yesterday, he officially announced that he is retiring from the games after pulling out from New York marathon at middle point. Whatever it its, at age of 35 he was still breaking record and compeeting at world class level, when most athletes would have announced their retirement and spend time with family.

His achievements:
Olympic Games (1996 & 2000) - 2 Gold medals (10,000M)
World Championship (93,95, 97,99) - 4 Gold medals (10,000M)
World Indoor Championship (97,99,2003) - 4 Gold medals (3000M /1500M)
Men Track&Field Athlete of the year - 1995 & 1998

His quotes:
"I will always listen to my coaches. But first I listen to my body. If what they tell me suits my body, great. If my body doesn't feel good with what they say, then always my body comes first. "

Malaysia's New Football Jersey

The older version of the jersey
The jersey which brought Malaysia Gold medal in SEA Games

Inside version of the Jersey with Partriotic words


Malaysian Flay embeded outside at left section, in paralel with heart

The home, away and goalkeeper jersey


Whatever new version that you create, first of all, the team should play better and produce quality game.
Let's see if they can perform during Asian Games with this new kit.





Sunday, November 7, 2010

Man United vs Anti Man United

The team formed by disenchanted Manchester United fans could be just a game away from facing the club they rebelled against after it was bought by American tycoon Malcolm Glazer.

FC United, which has rapidly risen to the seventh tier of English football after five years in existence, has now reached the second round of the FA Cup with a 3-2 victory over third-tier club Rochdale.

Victory in the next game would take the semiprofessional side to the stage when the top teams, including Manchester United, enter world football's oldest knockout competition.

On the prospect of playing at Man United, FC United manager Karl Marginson says that "for a lot of our fans it would be a nightmare because they have vowed never to go to Old Trafford again."

Source: Daily Chilli (7-11-10)

Friday, November 5, 2010

Deepavali Gift for Barisan Nasional

Barisan Nasional won Batu Sapi and Galas by election which was held yesterday. The Galas by-election saw a straight fight between the BN candidate, Abdul Aziz Yusoff and Dr Zulkefli Mohamed from PAS with the former winning with a big majority of 1,190 votes.

In Batu Sapi, 54-year old Linda had an unassailable lead from early on. In the end, she won with 9,773 votes versus PKR's 3,414 and SAPP's 2,031.

Nik Aziz, Tian and Dr Dzulkefli - down but not out!Her majority was a seemingly huge 6,359 votes because it is calculated by subtracting the next highest tally (PKR's 3,414) from her own.

Money politics came into picture again where fake ballot papers were handed out with cash inserted in the envelope.

In addition, Galas comes under Parlimentary area of Gua Musang which is run by "Ku Li" and he headed the mission to get back the seat from PAS.

Earlier at Batu Sapi, the widow used her emotions to attract all the lady voters and family men to ensure her sucess.

So looks like either you have money to play politics or you just cry so that people will vote for you. In addition, Ku Li is the real loser as he was in UMNO then formed Semangat 46 to work with PAS and jumped ship again to UMNO.

HAPPY DEEPAVALI


Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Sazali flexed to sixth title



Policeman Sazali Samad may have turned 43 in August but he showed that age is not a factor after flexing his muscles to a historic sixth title in the world bodybuilding championships in Varanasi, India.
The Batu Pahat-born Sazali was crowned Mr Asia for a seventh time, also in the lightweight category. He was the winner in 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2004, 2009.

We may be losers again in Sepak Takraw

It has been 16 years since we won gold medal in Sepak Takraw in Asian Games.

Here's Malaysia's performance since 1990 Beijing Games:

1990: 2 gold medals
1994: 1 gold
1998: 2 silver, 1 bronze
2002: 1 silver, 1 bronze
2006: 2 silver, 1 bronze

In recent King's cup Thailand, we lost to South Korea in Semifinals. A sports which was originate from Malaysia and became step son to Thailand.

We have relatively a easier group which consist of Japan, India and China. Our potential semifinalist will be South Korea and of course finals with Giants Thailand.

Can Malaysia end the 16 years drought to win gold medal? or are we going to play 3rd fiddle to South Korea and Thailand.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Paul the Octopus DIED

Paul the octopus, who shot to fame during this year's football World Cup in South Africa for his flawless record in predicting game outcomes, has died, his aquarium in Germany said on Tuesday.

"Management and staff at the Oberhausen Sea Life Centre were devastated to discover that oracle octopus Paul, who achieved global renown during the recent World Cup, had passed away overnight," the aquarium said in a sombre statement.

He whom predicted all the matches in World Cup 2010 accurately was even used to predict who will win the 2012 German General election, which is now kept secretly.

Anyway, he only lived for 2 years, but his memories will be there forever. Rest In Peace Paul.

Development to destroy sports

When Malaysia performed well in recent Commonwealth games, the government said that they will cultivate more sports activities at grassroots level. To produce the first Gold medalist in Olympics starts with young talents. But young talents needs basic facilities.

But with current development and proposed projects in Klang Valley, looks like its going to be in ash.

Here's my experience:

1. Stadium Merdeka - could be demolished and 'Warisan Merdeka" could be build.
2. KTM Football Field (Jalan Ipoh) - YTL took over and they plan to build a condominium soon
3. SMP Jalan Ipoh - half of the field has one for science lab and the track has been demolished and now being used as car park.
4. Setapak High School - half of the football field was used to build a mosque.
5. Brickfields football field - now being used as florist and barber shops.

This what I have seen in KL. But I don't know how many more to go.

How to build sports culture if you are just focusing on making money and profit.

Building to destroy

The recent budget announcement which includes RM5billion worth of constucting 100 storey building called "Warisan Merdeka". They will be demolishing the current Stadium Merdeka an will build this building.

This is skycrapper sould nurture and build nations economy as per "Jibby" but this mega project prooves that our PM is cultivating "Mahaterism". The country doesnt need a high rise building for time being. What we need is better security and safety features for the public, wuality education and effective transportation.

Looks like Our Prime Minister, Jibby, is digging his own grave yard and ensuring that BN will loose the 2/3 majority again in GE-13. He just wants to show his ego and let people to remember what he contributed to the country.

In addition, to close off altantuya case, this is another way to divert the focus.

The place at Jalan maharajalela already pack liked sardin, with huge trafic congestion daily, with another 100storey building, it is going to make things worse. Why can Jibby, allocate the 5billion for effective transportation system for Klang Valley.

Lim Guan Eng said that RM5bil can increase to RM10bil.

More RM, RM(Rosmah Mansor) will be happy.

We are more corrupted than before

Malaysia’s 2010 CPI score has declined slightly from 4.5 to 4.4, with the country ranking remaining at 56th (of 178 countries) (2009: 47th).

The main reasons are due to:
1. Lingam Tape
2. PKFZ issue
3. No open tender for goverment projects

Know This SPORTS PERSON - Flo Jo

Her nails
One legged suit

Seoul Olympics winner


Ronald Reegan (USA President) presenting Athlete of the Year

Stylish sprinter
Florence Griffith Joyner aka "Flo Jo" born in Los Angeles and educated& trained at Calirfonia State University.
After winning a silver medal in the 200-meter dash in the 1984 Olympics, she went into semiretirement. She returned to competition in 1987, taking second place at the World Championship Games in Rome.
After rigorous training she made a highly dramatic comeback in the trials for the 1988 Olympic Games. Her prowess, along with her glamour and eye-catching clothes, made "Flojo" a media sensation and one of the highest-paid sports figures in the world.
She dazzled the world with her six-inch long fingernails and sexy running attire, scorching tracks and retinas with her line of skin-tight negligées, some of which she dubbed "one-leggers."

In 1988, at the Olympic Games in Seoul, she won gold medals in the 100- and 200-meter races and in the 400-meter relay; she took the silver in the 1600-meter relay. Since then she has devoted her time to commercial enterprises, writing, and modeling.
In 1989 she announced her retirement from track, although she continued to coach her husband, Al Joyner, a champion jumper whom she married in 1987.
She is the current world record holder for 100M (10.49 seconds) and 200M(21.34 seconds). The closest was Marion Jones with timing of 10.75secs.
Her death at age of 38 brought rumours that she may have used performance enhancing drugs.
Looks like it may take another 10 years to produce another Flo Jo / Lady Usain Bolt.
Her famous quotes:
I don't play around. I want to get on the track, get the job done and get off.
Nothing is going to be handed to you -- you have to make things happen

Asian Games Target

Yesterday, our National Sports Council Director, Datuk Zolkples Embong announced that we will be going for a another record which is obtaining 9 Gold medals.

Our previous record was at Doha 2006, wher we hauled 8gold, 17silver and 17 bronze.

After creating a new record at recent Commonwealth Games, he is confident that Malaysia can again go and beat the odds to achieve more medals.

Our gold mines for this games will be from Squash, Bowling, Cycling and possibly from Badminton, Equastrian, Karate, Wushu, Swimming and Diving.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

KNOW This Person - M.Ramachandran






The only athlete to win 5 SEA GAMES consecutively. 10 gold in 5 years for SEA GAMES. He was awarded as Olympian of the year for 2003.

1 month before 1997 SEA GAMES, his wife passed away, but he was still strong, to come back with 2 gold medal.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

MIZUNO RUN - 17 Oct

Me with Ultra-marathoner Jeff Ooi

Going the final hill

Medal Back version


Medal Front Version

My 2nd experience running in UPM after 4 years. I didn't knew the route as I didn't take part last year. I knew it will be chalengging as it's organised by Pacesetters whom always adds the spice to the soup.

But something screwed with the tournament is the bib distribution. They didn't state the exact location at UPM for the collection. That made me to go round and round and finally asked the security guard.

Due to a lot of participants, the starting lane was like "sardin tin". I had to start from outside. I started slow and that made some of the runners to break the gap from me.

Suddenly saw Hamidon, Alam Shah, Wah Sing and Kenny Tan overtaking me. But I just maintained my pace. As the ladies started before us, i had to run zig zag zt certain point of the race.

It was good that they had 2 water station, as I can feel the humid half way of the race. The route was hilly (up and down hills). The finishing will be the remarkable as it was uphill at final 500M and last 200M is the track.

I manage to overtake 2 runners at the uphill and another 2 of them at the track. At the finishing lane, I was awarded the medal and collected the goddie bag which was filled with musle cream, 7up revive can and mineral water bottle.

My timing was 50:14. Though I didn't target for this run, but it boosted my confidence to do better for Penang Bridge.

Saturday, October 16, 2010

First Ladies Summit a waste of public funds


Recently, held First Ladies Summit held which was organised by Datuk Seri Utama Rosmah Mansor and officiated by Datuk Seri Najib.

I thought it's going to be a grand event, but end of the day it was only attended by 15 countries and most of them were from African Continent. Even our neighbouring countries i.e Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia and Brunei didn't send any representative.

Sad to say, the First Ladies Summit was a "half-past six" conference, judging from the attendance rate, where more than 90 percent of all the First ladies in the world were absent!

That " 1 Fat mama" eat our money as if it was a African Nations meeting.