Ketupat Training

Like the title said, ketupat training was the weaving phenomena between hari raya celebration (ziarah and eating) and training. I was strong enough to start running on 2nd Syawal and did even better clocking 10km on 3rd Syawal. Thank you so much to Shuk with his footpod attached, we managed to cover the distance running around the magnificent Istana route and tackling some hills. However, the remaining days were spent on food harvesting and travelling. From Johor Bahru to Batu Pahat and headed towards Kuala Rompin. I had it planned to expand the ziarah boundary to the east coast. By the 4th Syawal, we were already travelling back to KL traversing the Bandar Muadzam - Keratong - Serting - Kuala Pilah - KL route. It was an interesting drive. It really helps with a different view of panorama through the laidback places.

The next day, I was already craving for cranking - bunyi macam tajuk lagu la pulak! Just some local dudes, the Langat dudes actually, revisiting our backyard attempting Genting Peres and Bukit Antu. Only this time, Genting Peres was raining and misty and the climb and descending was thrilling. I managed to do the crank-besar-masak-kicap up Peres and Bukit Antu - first time with Bukit Antu and I was surprised it was doable. Phew! With all those strength workouts, I was starving even before reaching home. Had to stop at an Esso for a can of soya bean just 5 clicks away from home.

Hari Malaysia came and a bunch of us was already excited to crank off those raya loads. Almost 14 of us attempted the 106km Cheras - Seremban stretch through LEKAS highway. Though it seemed flat as a pancake and comfy while driving, it was the total opposite when you are cycling here. The flat was windy with headwinds while the climbs were long and tempting. We exited the highway at Mantin-Lenggeng and climbed the 2km Bukit Mantin before rolling into Seremban town for refuelling at Temiang Corner.

The ride back up to the highway was granny and we were punished with stronger headwinds and streaking hot sun. The faster we went, the strong headwind we faced. The slower we rode, the longer we baked under the sun. There was no good deed with both options. I decided to tag along with the fast riders and suffer lesser time but LT level was pushed to the max.

I had to skip Newton Challenge this weekend. After so much weighing, my kids should enjoy running event as well. I signed them up for the McDonald run. At least they can taste the pleasurable suffering of running and God willing it will make them stronger persons. My next event will be K.O.M. Ipoh - Cameron Highland. My first ride as well up the 54km Simpang Pulai route. I just wish to enjoy the cold torment. All the best of luck to all fellow buddies with the Bukit Ammah!