The Knowledgeable Warrior

Age of Mediocrity II

2011-10-06T08:38:00.000-07:00

It's easy to say, "I am a great person!" But how do you really know that?

Food for thought

Okay, the new semester has already arrived. As usual, I can always reassure myself that I'm finally heading towards the right direction by declaring on my Facebook status, " I'm gonna do well in my studies this time, seriously!" Well, surely those who had flunk their last papers are having the same thought as well. But how will I know that this time, this time & THIS TIME, things will turn out to be DIFFERENT?

I've learned that (yes, I am still learning too) it is only through my conduct & actions that will determine what kind of person will I be. It is pointless to self-praise (I'm guilty of this all the time) & live a false conviction. If I am a great person, then let those around me be the judge of that. Action speaks louder than words, period!

Who are the 'small' people & who are the 'big' people among your peers? Let's see the comparison between these two types of people. Of course I'm not referring in terms of body size lah, but the kind of mentality that they possess;

Lol :D

Small people are narrow minded, but big people are broad minded
Small people constantly take shortcuts, but big people lay down foundations
Small people work out of obligation, but big people work out of passion
Small people find excuses, but big people find solutions
Small people blame others, but big people repent
Small people are always lethargic, but big people are always enthusiastic
Small people see work as punishment, but big people see work as reward
Small people are annoying & calculative, but big people are generous
Small people always slack, but big people always act
Small people complain, but big people praise
Small people despise correction, but big people love learning

and finally...

Small people like to be comfortable, but big people go for change!

From now on whenever I feel like compromising, I will definitely read this post over & over again as a reminder for myself. I sincerely hope this post will encourage & motivate you as well to strive for excellence in life. We can honestly say that we know too many small people in our lives, that's why we have to cherish the minority of big people around us. Learn as much as we can from the latter & do not take them for granted.

I'm thankful for the 'big' people that God has placed into my life. I am who I am today because of their influence over me. One particular big person I know of would be...

Felicia Choong, an awesome sister to me. Please forgive me for my retarded smile :P

On another random note...

A great man has left the world...

"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life." - Steve Jobs

Age Of Mediocrity I

2011-08-10T07:29:00.000-07:00

Semester break is finally here. This is a good time to blog about random stuff besides running events!

Found this inspiring pix on FB. Thanks Moses Moo!

Human Anatomy was my final paper during last Tuesday morning. And I always have this habit sitting at the last row during exams so that I can get a good view of everyone (not a good sign of an excellent student). The paper however, was very tough due to the fact that most of us are not of science stream origin & there is just too many technical terms to memorize!

Recently, something that is so insignificant got me thinking about the world today. This is one of the obvious things you will find in every examination halls, which is candidates leaving too early with plenty of time frame to spare. Everyone was given 3 hours & 10 minutes to answer for that paper. But out of more than 10 candidates, I was the only one left in the hall after an hour & a half pass by. Yup that's right, nobody studied for that paper.

Last man standing? Lol!

Well, actually neither did I study at all for that paper! But it never occurred in my mind to just give up & hand in an empty answer sheet. I try utilizing every idea I can cook up with. If I to have goreng (fry) to make the answers sound convincing, then just goreng lah all the way haha! It doesn't matter if my answers are wrong & I failed the paper in the end. The most important thing is as long I have tried my best (although I could do better than that), learn from my mistakes of studying last minute & prepare better the next time around, only then can my learning be a worthwhile experience.

The key here is the will to be excellent, & that has taught me a valuable lesson the moment I left the exam hall. I now realize that in order for me to do well in the next semester, I can't be carrying the same attitude. I have to change my habits. Like a mad genius once quoted, "Doing the same thing over & over again while expecting results is insanity!" Without change, the outcome will always remain the same; lousy grades.

Gotta cut down on FB, sleep & last minute assignments. Period!

That's the problem though. Whenever the new semester commences, I would see the same scenario from almost all my coursemates; submitting last minute assignments, poor standard of English both written & orally as well as leaving exam halls too early. To make it a fair judgement, I too have to hold myself accountable for being in the same league. My assignments are handed in seconds before the deadline, lack of practise is deteriorating my English fluency & bad preparation for exams is earning me the F grade. Ouch!

It is not just in the context of being a student. We can clearly see this trait in all levels of society. We do not want to be excellent. Because we know that excellence requires hardwork, dedication, commitment, & ultimately, painful sacrifices. Instead we all want to be comfortable, & that is why we see alot of people today striving for mediocrity, the opposite of excellence. How can one grow if they constantly stay only within their comfort zones?

Again it is not just the area of education, the picture is now much bigger than that. I will see stop here for now, looking at my own reflection while playing the late MJ's 'Man In The Mirror'. To be continued...

"Mediocrity is self-inflicted. Genius is self-bestowed." - Walter Russell

Rest

2011-08-06T09:56:00.000-07:00

After going through five runs consecutively in July, my legs are now begging, "Please, no more!"

Believe it or not...

This is the catalyst of greater things to come!

The Olympic Day Run, this is where it all started; the excitement, the enthusiasm, the adrenaline, the glory & of course, medals! It was the first long distance running event I've ever participated in my life back in July 2009. During that time, my intentions of joining such runs were purely just for fun. Who knew that a such a simple decision would eventually turned into a passion!

Ever since then, I never look back. My love for marathons or long distance running just grew deeper & deeper, run after run! Today at the age of 21, I am finally living for the first time. Thank God I still have my youth, because the best is definitely yet to come!

My old workplace, brings back alot of fond memories!

Medallicious ~

With my ex-colleague, Helnie. She has such a bubbly personality ;)

More more more!

I say man...

This is super hard wei!

I am not exaggerating, but this is by far the toughest run I've ever competed in. I push, push, push & yet, I just couldn't overtake anyone! It's like every participant in this event was a seasoned runner. Even in my fittest condition, I only managed to win nothing but a piece of cert in the end. Thanks to events publicity through Facebook, marathons are getting so popular nowadays, thus making competition much stiffer than it was before. Look like I'm gonna have to start investing in gadgets & sports beverages soon to give me that winning edge!

Unsatisfied, I went for another run the next morning with a distance of 10km despite my legs feeling very heavy after completing 12.3km!

My dad seriously thought I was crazy. He's right though!

I'm crazy for these metal made buggers!

Like I've said, I never look back since...

Signs of fatigue has started to kick in for my legs. Fortunately it is now the month of August, that means there won't be any running events being held until September. Finally, a well deserved break from this hectic but enjoyable sport. This will give me the opportunity to focus on other projects. Yes, I am planning something BIG, something that has never or at least, seldom being done here before in Malaysia. It's gonna massive, it's gonna be electrifying & Good Lord Almighty, it's certainly gonna be hell raising!

No further details can be given for now. But do often check out my blog for more developments on my...'secret' project. Finally, get ready...

"Rest: the sweet sauce of labor." - Plutarch

Hyperstressed

2011-07-05T01:05:00.000-07:00

Due to the incredible amount of stress I have to endure at the moment, I won't be touching my blog again until the end of this month. But here is quick update on what I have been going through on the running scene;

Damn far man travelling to Rawang!

But the trip was worth it though (:

Love the design, resembling some kind of shield or emblem

Then a week after that, we have...

The mother of all KL marathons!

Bloody hell, I wasn't ready!

Alright, much better :P

Shiny!

A week again later after that...

Believe me when I say that this run has everything. Probably the best I have participated so far in my life!

Yup, I'm a very mature person ~

Very mature indeed ;)

The tally is now 11 medals!

That's all for now. See you again at the end of July. And thanks for reading, because it encourages me to continue blogging!

"In times of great stress or adversity, it's always best to keep busy, to plow your anger & your energy into something positive." - Lee Iococca

A Bridge Too Far?

2011-06-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

I've decided...

I'm gonna take on this challenge!

"To venture where no man has gone before," fulamak!

The Penang Bridge is one of the main attractions for sports tourism in the country

It is dubbed as the mother of all Malaysian marathons! This is beyond what I have faced before. This shall be my 'Goliath' of the year. No doubt, it's gonna be electrifying! Holy cow! I am bloody excited to be part of this epic history whereby thousands of ordinary men & women will choose to do something extraordinary on November 20th by conquering the Penang Bridge & live the day to tell their stories to the rest of the world. November 20th...November 20th...

To make sure I am ready for the first half marathon of my life, I joined the New Balance Pacesetters 15km last Sunday to see how my stamina fares.

Putrajaya, one of my least favourite places to run at!

Pictures below are courtesy of Siew Chee Meng from Malaysia Runners Network;

The best promotion & discounts you can find for running shoes are in running events!

Check out the guy in the middle with the hair tattoo! :D

One day I must conduct a research on why Africans are so physically gifted in sports

Refreshments after the run

Yimster a.k.a Uncle Yim was also running!

He's becoming more & more of a local celebrity especially when he runs with his signature sarong haha!

Running is meaningless if you don't have a supporter, thanks dad (:

I didn't know how cool my hair was until I saw this :P

Thank you Lord for giving me a pair of legs to run for Your glory!

The Chinese believes that 8 is a lucky number. For me, I create my own luck ~

The last remaining kilometer felt like hell! Literally, I had to drag my feet just to reach the finishing line as my legs just couldn't run anymore (total shutdown) after reaching 14km. I was disappointed with myself actually, because I know I can do better than this. For some reason, my body was not in top form due to some mistakes made during the last day of training before competition.

The moral of the story is, never undergo through vigorous training especially on the last day of practice. It is not just your stamina level, but your performance will suffer as well because the body doesn't have enough time to recuperate from the previous training session. Looks like there's still alot more preparation to be done before November 20th. In order to finish a half marathon consisting of 21km in a strong position, there can be no room for mistakes!

"The body does not want you to do this. As you run, it tells you to stop but the mind must be strong. You always go too far for your body. You must handle the pain with strategy...It is not age; it is not diet. It is the will to succeed." - Jacqueline Gareau

If Only They Believe

2011-05-30T07:13:00.000-07:00

It takes alot of balls to admit & rectify one's mistakes

Ooh goody goody goody!

Just as promised in their previous statement, the organizers of Energizer Night Race 2011 had fulfilled their obligations by delivering my finishing medal through courier post. I just wanna move on from here & focus on the future. Hopefully we will see a much better event in the following year. Energizer Man, don't let me down again!

This is something random I like to share called faith.

An invincible weapon

What is faith? Google it & you will find the definition of faith to be; firm belief in something for which there may be no tangible proof; complete trust; opposite of doubt. From the Christian context, it is the only the thing that can please God. There are not many things you can do without faith because if your conviction is easily shaken, then everything will seem impossible to you. I myself need to have faith in God for many things like...

Nation

I need to have faith that our country will be free of corruption, social injustice & discrimination.

I need to have faith that our country's development can match it's neighbour like Singapore.

I need to have faith that our country will become an economic powerhouse in the world.

I need to have faith that Malaysia will successfully achieve it's vision of 'Wawasan 2020'.

I need to have faith in our current Prime Minister's ability.

Sports

I need to have faith that our country will qualify for the FIFA World Cup.

I need to have faith that our national football league will be as popular as the EPL.

I need to have faith that Malaysians will cultivate healthy & active lifestyles.

I need to have faith that our country is capable of producing the next Lionel Messi, Roger Federer, Lebron James, Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps, Lance Armstrong, etc.

I need to have faith in our current Youth & Sports Minister's ability.

Arts

I need to have faith that our country's film & music industry will experience a breakthrough on international scene.

I need to have faith that artisan professions in our country will be respected as rewarding careers.

I need to have faith that Malaysians are not afraid to be artistically creative.

I need to have faith that our country is capable of producing the next Jimmy Choo, Michelle Yeoh, Amber Chia, Siti Nurhaliza, Nicholas Teo, Guang Liang, etc.

I need to have faith in our current Culture, Arts & Heritage Minister's ability.

Education

I need to have faith that our local universities will achieve ranking of top 100 in the world.

I need to have faith that our country will attract top brains from around the world.

I need to have faith that the standards of our national exams will achieve international credibility & recognition.

I need to have faith that our schools are capable of producing competitive & holistic students.

I need to have faith in our current Education & Higher Education Ministers abilities.

Church

I need to have faith that Christianity will experience a revival in this country.

I need to have faith that the church is united on a common ground & cares for the community.

I need to have faith in my cell group members that they can learn to love one another.

I need to have faith in my leader's authority.

I need to have faith in Pastor Kevin's vision of raising a church that has both quantity & quality members.

Self

I need to have faith in my daily devotion with God.

I need to have faith in putting others ahead of me.

I need to have faith that God loves me & will never forsake me.

I need to have faith that my gift & talents can make a difference in society.

I need to have faith in God that He is almighty & powerful to make this whole list a reality.

Many said that Malaysia is hopeless. Many said that Malaysia can never change. Many chose to run away & will never come back here again. Is there no one who is faithful in this country anymore?

As long there are those like Hannah Yeoh who still believes in change, all hope is not lost ~

"Faithless is he that says farewell when the road darkens." - J.R.R. Tolkien

A Day To Call Their Own

2011-05-10T09:35:00.000-07:00

Second time unlucky!

My second defeat of the year...

My brother from another mother, Teh Yong Yuan. In the end, both of us only managed to get certs *sigh*

Thanks dad for always driving me around for running events, you're the best!

Well, I'm not very bothered by the fact that I couldn't win anything from this run. There were quite a lot of good runners that really pose a difficult challenge for me. But if I look at the bigger picture though, more people are taking up sports particularly in running & their numbers are growing every year judging by the increase of participation especially in events like this which is a boon towards cultivating healthy lifestyles among Malaysians. Why shouldn't I be happy then?

The main purpose of this run is to commemorate the annual World Firefighter's Day. This day was started in remembrance of honour & respect when five Australian firefighters died while performing their duties. Besides the police, I truly believe that firefighters are one of the few selfless people in keeping our world a safer place to live (yes, including our own Malaysian police & firemen as well).

I'm surprise that the world would rather love Justin Bieber than these unsung heroes

Wah saving a child, this one must really respect wei!

Firefighting has always been a dangerous profession. I just can't imagine putting my own life in danger to save another even if you pay me a big fat salary cheque. If I can help through financial means, definitely no problem. But to put my ass on the line? Hell no! However, these guys are willing to go through the risks despite the potential dangers that may be fatal ahead of them. So to all the men in red uniform out there, I salute you!

A firefighter on a rescue mission during the Japan disaster

Courage, honour & courtesy. These are distinguished qualities of a chivalric knight in the medieval age. Therefore, I shall refer today's firefighters as the modern noble knights!

Where would we be without them?

No medal but it's okay, it's okay *pat myself on the back*. At least I won something from the day before. Pictures below belongs to Pui San a.k.a 'doc on the run';

Yes, the thrill begins after sundown!

Participants getting ready to take on the tower

It's much more comfortable to breathe due to improved ventilation system

I'm actually more glad to see the bottles of water rather than the kakak haha!

A huge relief once you see this sign

Officials distributing the finishing medals

At the observatory

Yay bangga! *syok sendiri*

Back down at the tower base

KL Tower, I've already conquered you thrice. I own you bitch!

Amazing, just look at her sparkle ~

After winning my 6th medal, I'll be taking a short break from running until early next month. Chow for now!

"I have no ambition in this world but one, & that is to be a fireman. The position, may in the eyes of some, appear to be a lowly one; but we who know the work which the fireman has to do believe that his is a noble calling. Our proudest moment is to save lives. Under the impulse of such thoughts, the nobility of the occupation thrills us & stimulates us to deeds of daring, even of supreme sacrifice." - Chief Edward F. Croker

The Greedy Battery

2011-04-27T17:45:00.000-07:00

Besides running events, I don't know what else to blog about!

Yes, alot of promotion revolving this run

More than 10000 runners eagerly anticipating this event on the night of 16th April, ready to whoop some ass & make history with Sepang International Circuit chosen for the first time as the venue for a running event. By right, it was supposed to be the most electrifying run in all over Malaysia! But after going through that night, we (the participants) can all agree that the much publicized run was absolutely...undoubtedly, unquestionably, 100 percent completely SUCK!

In my experience so far as a runner, I have never encountered a running event so bloody badly organized as this before. Even words alone can't describe how horrible the event was!

Yes, it was literally nighmarish during the run

I don't want to go into details because there is just too many flaws to list out in this event. All I can say is that when business organizations decided to put profit as their main priority ahead of social responsibility to the public, something can & will go wrong for sure. Judging by the way they run the show, I already knew right before the start that chaos is imminent & just as predicted, all hell broke loose during that night. The worst part of all, I couldn't get my finishing medal & cert which I am entitled to in the end. Crikey God damn it!

If you're curious to know what kind of shit exactly happened that night, take a look at their FB page & read the comment posted there. In the meantime, here's another run a week later. Pictures below belongs to 'Running With Passion';

Kinrara, awesome place to run!

My dad & I are somewhere around here (:

Most of the Kinrara area are still under development

Girl Power!

Chinese Usain Bolt kah?

Runners reaching the finishing line

Let's make a comparison between this humble Kinrara Metta Run (KMR) & the highly marketed Energizer Night Race (ENR);

Organization: KMR - very well organized, ENR - bloody hell!
Objective: KMR - for charity only, ENR - it's all about making big bucks motherfeather!
Registration Fees: KMR - RM30, ENR - RM65.
Parking space: KMR - ample, free & guarded by security, ENR - RM10 charged but no security guard!
Drinks availability: KMR - 2 drink stations for free, ENR - RM3 for mineral water & RM2 for Gatorade.
Medical assistance: KMR - available every 2km, ENR - only at finishing line.
Race rules integrity: KMR - everyone ran a fair race & got a finishing medal, ENR - lack of officials allowing many runners to cheat by taking shortcuts. Runners ended up taking more than one finishing medal & cert due to officials negligence, causing others to go home empty handed!

I've learn that it is so much better to participate in a charity run rather than a so called international run with all kinds of marketing gimmicks. The latter not only allows you to join for an affordable price, but part of the money that you paid will definitely go back to society as well.

I also gave something to myself, confidence ~

The medal tally is now 5!

Energizer Man, you are too greedy. Learn to be generous once in awhile

"Love is always a stranger in the house of avarice." - Andreas Capellanus

Creative Juice Flowing

2011-04-06T08:33:00.000-07:00

Yeah I know, I'm getting more & more lazy to revive this bloody dead blog.

Klang mari punya!

I'm getting fatter, not good!

It's Yimster a.k.a Uncle Yim again ~

He always can be seen running with that sarong tied around his waist. After the run, I finally decided to ask him why lah Uncle Yim, why lah? This was his reply;

"Most of the time we are so focused on winning first prize. Nothing wrong with that really. But once in awhile I like to think it would be just nice to go & have some fun by adding spice into your life, like what I'm doing now with the sarong. Especially in small runs like this, you should learn to enjoy the process rather than the destination (so true). That way you will love & appreciate more what you're doing"

Wow, I couldn't agree more on that. When I ask myself honestly, I too would also say that it is not really the medals that make me satisfied but rather the process of winning them that matters. Imagine the amount of sweat, tears & blood I have to shed throughout thousands of metres just to earn that little precious piece of metal. These are the things I experienced that made me proud as a man!

Indeed, the pain was worth it ~

I've been spending alot of time in the gym with my cousin Justin lately, which is a good thing actually considering how long have we lost contact with each other. The more I talk to him, the more I realized what kind of person he is; an intelligent man.

Felicia ask me to organize a jogathon right after Easter among our group circle of friends. I always thought of joining as many run as possible to add up my glorious collection of medals, but to organize one has never ever come across my mind before!

So I agreed. I told her let's just have a simple run, probably a short distance of 5km, sponsor a few bottles of 100 Plus with my own wallet for drink stations, give every participant a finishing medal, a few manpower to volunteer as road marshals. Each monkey will contribute a minimum of RM10 to cover the cost of running the event. If there's any baki, perhaps I could sapu & keep them for myself hehe! Simple as that!

I told my cousin about this during gym sessions & he asked me, " Why not make it bigger by seeking sponsorships?"

Me as the organizer? Sounds crazy, but why not, why not?

I tell you, those words impacted me to the core as if like the Red Sea was parted into two! The excitement of organizing a run made me feel like a kid on a sugar rush! Why have I not thought of this before? Brilliant, brilliant! I don't often give away compliments like this but my cousin, Justin Gerald Ng is a genius! I have no idea that getting a sponsor is as easy as getting something out of your pocket. Well then, what are we waiting for? Let's start planning!

"Sometimes it is better to begin the journey, to get under way, then it is to sit back and wait until such time that you're convinced that all conditions are perfect and that there'll be no surprises along the route." - John Engler

Sheer Stupidity

2011-03-16T12:48:00.000-07:00

Finally, running season has return!

Medals for first 1000 runners only? That is like taking a stroll in the park muahaha!

When my dad took this picture, he must be very proud indeed

Wahseh ~

The next day, I went for another run again. Probably the first time I put my physical limits to the test by running two events simultaneously!

Surprisingly my dad was supportive this time haha!

First time teasing the camera :D

Legs suffered cramps all over, but the pain was worth it!

Nonetheless, there's still a long journey way ahead to achieve my annual goal of winning 25 medals. But I couldn't be happier though that my gamble of taking part in two runs in a row has paid off it's dividends. The most important thing is that I'm doing something I love & passionate about. If I can discover my passion for running by 'accident', imagine what other things that might capture my enthusiasm in the future? It looks like I'll be running for many years to come!

Anyway life has been pretty good so far. Assignments are completed and I was just getting prepared for my semester exams before I can take a short break in April. As happy-go-lucky as I am, I tend to be ignorant of what is happening around us recently particularly the earthquake & tsunami disaster that killed thousands of people in Japan. However, the more I buat tak tahu, the more I feel guilty of myself for indulging in my own comfort zone. Moreover, Japan is one of the countries I admired. I can't help but grief to see calamities befell on her.

What really disturbed me is not the tragedy though but how fellow Malaysians reacted to this issue;

The aftermath...

If you are ignorant as someone like me, that's fine. At least you are minding your own business without stepping on other people's toes. But to add salt into a person's wound after seeing them fall, that is just is way too much! This is just what the local Malay daily Berita Harian published in their newspaper;

WTF!?

I say, have sympathy on the victims man! Everytime Berita Harian also like that one! When they are in the news, confirm must be for the wrong reasons one, confirm! Let me guess, this is one of their special rights, right? You tak suka, you boleh keluar dari Malaysia! I mean c'mon! A normal sane person with common sense would have at least shown empathy. What's the point of giving out a statement of apology when the damage has already been done? Don't you know there are quite a number of Japanese folks residing permanently in our country? How do you think they would feel if they see this sick cartoon?

Sebelum buat sesuatu, fikirlah dulu. Ada sebabnya Allah bagi otak kepada kita sebagai manusia amboi!

And now this, again!?

Bloody hell! I thought this issue has been resolved on March 15th when the government agreed to release all Malay printed bibles unconditionally for distribution. Apparently they decided to make a U-turn during the next day by imposing two conditions before the bible copies can be released;

The importers who are to distribute them must directly stamp on the cover of each copies with the following words: “Peringatan: ‘Al Kitab Berita Baik’ ini untuk kegunaan penganut agama Kristian sahaja. Dengan perintah Menteri Dalam Negeri.” (In English, “Reminder: This ‘Al Kitab Berita Baik’ is for the use of Christians only. By order of the Home Minister.”)
Ooh boy, this gets even more ridiculous. The second condition requires the importers to stamp a serial number on each copy, as if to demarcate copies from the released shipment and to enable the book to be traced back to the port of import.

Najib, please back your words with action!

I cannot stop scratching my head now. Since when the Holy Bible is only meant for Christians to read and not other people of different faiths? I can forget about the cartoon of Ultraman running away but has common sense really gone out the window that the BN government no longer has the capacity to make sense that are common? Where is the logic of treating the Bible as if it's like a controlled item by stamping a serial number on every copy? For God's sake, this is a holy book, not a communist's book! Guess what happened when the importer refused to kow tow to the demands of the Home Ministry? Check out the story here!

Impudence! Pure insolence! Sei zai ar! If I have my rotan now, I will! I will...*heart attack*

"Nothing in the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Finding That Kid Again

2011-02-11T12:30:00.001-08:00

Hmm...

Studying an unusual course in an unusual institution

My university recently gave me three choices of major to choose from in my Sports Science (SS) course; 1) Coaching, 2) Sports Management & Recreation or 3) Fitness & Exercise Physiology. The moment I became indecisive, that's when the problem starts to arise. For the first time in my life, I do not know what I want anymore. Or maybe I do know what I want, but I'm not sure whether is it worth pursuing anymore.

Since the beginning of this year, I've been a lazy couch potato. Rather of doing something productive, I'll be playing computer games the whole day instead. I seemed to lost interest in everything, and this is not good. Because CNY is almost over & I still haven't pull myself together for the challenges that lie ahead this year!

No longer the same daredevil I once was

Perhaps as one grows older, life tends to get more complicated as well. When I was way much younger, the only thing that excites me is football, football, & more football! Football is like a fuel that keeps me driving, simply because I love it. I used to have this crazy idea that if I train & play well enough, a scout or coach will notice me one day. I was kid back then mah, can you really blame me?

But like I said, life becomes more complicated when one grows older. As the years passed by, you realized that things are not as easy as it seems. To cut it simply, I do not see things like how a kid sees anymore. A kid dares to take the jump, but I'm so afraid thinking, "What if I don't make it to the other side?" A kid doesn't think twice, but fear & doubt constantly creeps into my head as an adult today.

This is what I initially planned; become the pioneer batch of coaches with a SS degree, serve the government in the area of football & hopefully, Malaysia will qualify for the World Cup during my time here on planet earth. Ideally, it sounds simple but life is so complicated remember? This issue has been haunting me ever since OUM started asking me in January of what major do I want because I couldn't help asking myself this, "Is it really possible to achieve that dream or whatever I have been through so far is a complete waste of time & energy?"

A kid dares to dream. But today as an adult, my dream intimidates me!

Only gloom & darkness ahead

I must believe like a kid again! Not to say follow things blindly, but to be a kid is to possess the courage & enthusiasm again which many of us lost along way to the ascension of adulthood. I have already chosen the road not taken, the path that many are not willing to take. There's no turning back now. If I don't continue this journey, then no one else would do it. Lord, please strengthen my faith ~

"A mind troubled by doubt cannot focus on the course to victory." - Arthur Golden

Twenty 11

2011-01-02T00:17:00.000-08:00

How did I celebrate the first day of 2011?

There's always a run in Klang!

I know what you guys are thinking. I should be celebrating like these people below right?

Illegal parking around Sunway Pyramid. Traffic police officers confirm untung banyak during that night haha!

As usual, New Year celebration is never complete without fireworks as well as chaos at the main entrance!

Along with a few hundred extraordinary people, I decided to join them doing this on New Year instead;

Mari kita lari bersama-sama ~

Only a few hundred Malaysians told themselves this, "Let's do something different!"

And because I was so busy during Christmas season, I've totally forgotten to blog about my last run in 2010;

The conclusion is...

...I have won my 20th medal muahaha!

With Sufian, a Yoga Instructor from my workplace. We shall meet in 'battle' again this coming 23rd January ;)

God, forgive my critics. For they do not know what they are saying

I must say so myself, not bad for a newbie in his first year of running. This time in 2011, I will raise the bar of 25 medals as my year end target. Football is still one of my greatest passion. Nevertheless, running has become my number one love at the moment. You can say it is a new passion 'discovered' by accident haha! Who knows, what new passion I might came across in 2011?

Besides attending house parties as well as exchanging gifts among friends during Christmas, what else did I do? Pictures below belongs to Yin Shi Chan, Careen Tan & The Star newspaper;

A special event for a special group of people (:

Every recipients will write down their wish list here

I will say it again & again, be charitable to your local community!

For the past few years, achievements have always been my main priority in life. No matter how much I had accomplished though, it was never enough deep inside of me. The more I gain, the more my heart feels miserable as well. I thought that more success will make me happy. However I was wrong, so very wrong. I'm not saying that we shouldn't be competitive, but there is more to life than just career & ambitions.

Therefore during Christmas, I challenged myself to put my ego aside & start loving those around me;

From left to right: Careen, Jean, Gerard & Boon

Performers giving out candies to children

Hannah Yeoh, you will have my vote in the next General Election ~

I like this kid, he is so playful & affectionate (:

Check out the full story here!

Lord, You have taught me a valuable lesson in year 2010. I now know that life is not just about me, myself & I but it's about having a relationship with You & others. When I start to be a blessing to those around me, I can finally experience a deep sense of satisfaction within me. Thank you for sending Your only begotten Son onto the world at 25th December, so that I may learn how to love others by You first loving me. Happy belated birthday Jesus, amen.

"Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man." - Benjamin Franklin

One Last Hurdle

2010-12-16T09:16:00.000-08:00

One more, just one more...

Sembilan belas!

Adrenaline rush ~

Didn't realize how soaking wet I was during that time haha!

A familiar face at various runs, Yimster. Check out his blog here

Background - 7km @ Padang Merbok, KL.
Weather - Sunny yet tolerable.
Organization - Where's the toilet man!?
Difficulty - Lots of hills coming along your way. This is also a favourite spot for many pro runners to train incline.
Fitness - Though I have trained regularly, the hills were still quite a challenge to overcome.
Overall - Padang Merbok, a been there, done that kind of venue as most of the runs I've participated so far were held in the same place too. No matter how many times I run here, the hills will always be a bother to me! Nevertheless, it will take more than just hills to deter me from reaching the finishing line!

Now, on with the final race of 2010;

Let's finish this year with a bang shall we? ;)

"Endurance is one of the most difficult disciplines, but it is the one who endures that the final victory comes." - Prince Siddhartha Gautama

What Really Matters

2010-12-02T11:23:00.000-08:00

The most happening & challenging month is here!

X'mas shopping, ooh yeah!

My God! It's December already? I honestly feel that this year is one of the fastest yet ever. I rather not ask people whether they have achieved their yearly resolutions or not, lest I must listen to their rambling & complaints haha! As for me, this is probably the best I have experienced so far in terms of personal achievements. What a glorious 2010 it has been, yes siree bob!

I collected my 18th medal in what seemed to be a typical run. Photos below belongs to Yimster;

Be charitable to your local community

Great men & women whom choose to be extraordinary

Go go go!

Bukit Jalil Sports School (northwest). Someday, I shall make my mark here ~

Run smartly, always rehydrate yourself

It was difficult to breathe due to the polluted air

Bloody inconsiderate drivers. What do you expect us runners to do by honing?

International Medical University (IMU), my dad's punya workplace :D

Running uphills is not only tiring physically, but mentally as well

Everything looks normal, until...

Mighty Morphin!?

To be running with my childhood idol, wow!

Even though he was jogging slowly, I decided to tail him instead all the way to the finishing line. He is just too damn interesting to be ignored! It was funny to see that there were others whom would mistaken him of being other superheroes, such as Spiderman, Ultraman or Superman (bloody hell, since when Superman wears a freaking mask!?). Wherever he goes, all eyes would be on him. Seriously, how often do you see something like this everyday?

Awesomeness!

This is what I do every Sunday morning

Background - 10km @ Stadium National Bukit Jalil.
Weather - Drizzling before gradually sunny again.
Organization - Kudos to the committee members for a job well done!
Difficulty - Intermediate with occasional hilly roads. First time beginners will likely struggle with this venue.
Fitness - Only trained once after the previous event by walking casually. Nevertheless, I took my time during this run as the finishing medals were guaranteed.
Overall - A unique experience running with the Red Power Ranger!

That's right, I am a responsible & caring runner ;P

Many years from now, my future kids & grandkids will look at this photo with pride

I do not want to boastful here. But yes, I admit that I have come a long way now since I made the decision to come back to Christ again in early 2008. In 2010 alone, I have achieved so much especially in the area of sports. To be achieving something memang is a good feeling. However, they do not last forever. I want to stress out that there is more to life than just pursuing glory, power, fame & wealth.

At the end of the day, what really matters is relationships. The smile on your friend's face when he/she receives your gift on their birthdays, or holding hands together with your partner while watching a romantic movie in cinema, or the pat you gave your dog before leaving the house, or mom & dad giving you a kiss on the cheek during your graduation, or your colleagues sharing dirty jokes with you, or worshiping God during Sunday service, etc.

These are the small little things I am yearning for. I'm not saying that excellence is no longer relevant, but we have to prioritize the things that are most important in our lives. Our loved ones & God should above everything else. Not career, studies nor materialistic stuffs as the other way around! If you gain the whole world but lose your soul along the way, then you'll just end up of being another Heath Ledger in the making. What's the point of that? Let's learn to love one another. Focus not on the destination, but rather more on the process. Amen ~

I'm glad I took leave from work for this

"The less you open your heart to others, the more your heart suffers" - Deepak Chopra

Relevance

2010-11-21T10:40:00.000-08:00

Chect out here for my trip to Universal Studios in Kiasuland!

Using my strong legs to contribute back to society

Doing your part for charity can be rewarding as well (:

Bandar Botanic, Klang. I'm starting to love this place motherfeather!

Straight up ahead!

Passing by Jusco, Bukit Tinggi. The one & only decent attraction in Klang

Holy cows!

Smooth traffic?

This is so not the M'sian way ~

If you think Klang folks are pariah, this neigbourhood shall prove you wrong

It's so quiet, almost like a ghost town...

...as commercial development here is slow

Crossing over to Botanic Garden

Wahseh...

Booyaka...

Many beautiful homes still waiting to be occupied

One of the most easiest & serene places I've ever competed at. You can't ask for a better venue than this!

Background - 7km @ Ambang Botanic, Klang.
Weather - Sunny with a cool breeze.
Organization - Everything was good I guess.
Difficulty - A very predictable run (in a good way lah). Though the winning prizes are limited only to 30 medals for my category, it was still considered a walk in the park as the road is flat most of time & the majority of runners were students. Plus the elite & pro runners were not interested in such events especially charity runs which made things alot easier for me. That is why studying statistics is so important kids!
Fitness - Let's see, sufficient glycogen storage levels, check. Regular training sessions, check. Coupled with enough amount of rest, the dividends have paid off indeed.
Overall - What more can I say? Only 3 medals left to capture, let's believe God for the impossible amen!

Hang on, there's more...

If you got it, then flaunt it ~

Can you imagine these are all happening in my church? Photos below belongs to Tian Chad's Photography;

Ooh...

My...

Goodness...

This...

Is...

Unbelievable...

Someone...

Pinch...

Me!?

Who say M'sia is hopeless? We have plenty of talents here, don't play-play wei!

“Creativity (sports included ;D) is the ability to see relationships where none exist” - Thomas Disch

The Next Level

2010-10-31T06:48:00.000-07:00

Just a few more days to go!

I just can't get enough of Singaypoh

Yes it's true, I love to pamper myself all the time. Will be down south again from Nov 4th-6th, a typical 3D2N vacation. Looking forward to meet up with one of my ex-classmates during Sixth Form over there as well. She's currently studying in a top Singaporean institution, a very good testimony to those who believe in excellence & perseverance. I will definitely blog about her next time!

On the other hand, my collection of medals has been running dry lately...

Not!

This run was held on Halloween Day, but you can't expect me to run while wearing a scary costume! Anyway, here's the review;

That's right

Background - 12km @ Stadium Padang Sultan Sulaiman, Klang.
Weather - Cool & cloudy , nice ~
Organization - Very well planned in various aspects such as time management, coordination of participants & security. The only problem was the dirty toilet!
Difficulty - Somewhat easy as the road incline was flat most of the time. Plus the medals were guaranteed provided you beat the time limit stipulated which means you're only competing with yourself & not with others.
Fitness - In terms of nutrition, I was well prepared (tried out the carbohydrate loading tactic). However, again I only managed to maintain a steady pace for the first 30 minutes before eventually tiring out due to lack of training on the treadmill.
Overall - I would love to run in Klang again. This victory has given me a huge boost to my confidence for future runs. After counting all the medals won since January, I'm only short of 4 more medals to reach this year's goal of 20!

Will update more photos of the venue soon. On another note...

Wahseh ~

I did something...how do you define it?...not very normal lah on October 29th. It was suppose to be a typical Friday evening where I'm suppose to go to work & earn RM40 a day. Instead, I applied for last minute leave just to support a friend whom is at the finals of this modeling competition in Mid Valley.

Photos are courtesy of Win Shian, Low Shek How & KC Chung;

Photography, a very expensive hobby!

Opening performance by XOXO

Encore!

Her loyal fans

A talented drummer to lift up the crowd

"And our next contestant is..."

Careen Tan ~

The camera just loves her

Simply gorgeous

Along with the other beautiful aspiring models

I feel so proud of her

There's sand in my eyes lah!

Regardless of the results, you are always a winner in our hearts

With the family & relatives. Indeed, a night of celebration

To be honest, I'm not very close to this person actually despite been in the same cellgroup & church together for almost two years now. How often do you see someone put their work & studies aside just to lend their support to someone they don't really know? But the moment she thank & gave me a nice warm hug, I knew that going through the fuss of travelling for three long hours by KTM from my workplace in Klang towards Mid Valley was worth the pain.

However, I'm not trying to boast about myself of being an awesome friend or something. What I'm trying to emphasize is that relationships are very superficial these days. We can claim that a certain someone is our friend by just saying "Hello, how are you & goodbye". I know 'friends' like that for many years now & till today, our relationship can't go any further than that!

When you need emotional support especially in the midst of trials & challenges, these 'friends' will give all kind of excuses for not being there for you. They will claim that work, studies & lack of time got in the way but in reality, they just don't want to be committed into genuine relationships in the first place.

Without commitment, I'll rather be sleeping on Sunday mornings than to do productive activities like running

Commitment requires sacrifice, patience & ultimately, love. If it doesn't starts from you, then you can never experience anything real in your life.

"There are only two options regarding commitment. You're either in or out. There's no such thing as a life in-between" - Pat Riley

Setbacks

2010-10-17T16:54:00.000-07:00

Lame joke, "Cockroach ate my hair!"

Took me alot of courage to step out of the saloon

I really wonder what is the ideal age of a personal trainer nowadays. Comments such as "Wah! So young?" or "Why so young one!?" are often blurted out by gym members, whenever I told them that I'm just...twenty years old? However they are not complimenting me though, but rather more like complaining!

But I can understand why the knee-jerk reaction. Imagine if you're an old man around your 50's & a kid is trying to teach you on how to exercise, wouldn't you feel embarrass at all? Let's face it, we are egoistic humans by nature (guys especially). Even I myself at times would have thoughts like "I am much older than you, who are you to teach me?"

That's the problem. As we get older, we feel that we don't have to learn anything anymore. We feel that we know everything once our schooling days are over. But let me tell you something, learning does not stop in the classroom. You will only stop learning on the day you leave planet earth. Let's be open minded from now on. If a young stud wants to share his knowledge & wisdom with you, then let him.

On the other hand, I wasted my celebration of 10.10.10 by going for tutorials instead!

How could I afford to miss it?

Regretted, *sigh*

Normally, my tutorials are held on Sunday mornings. But since I love running on almost every Sunday mornings, how can I juggle sports & studies at the same time? I don't mind sacrificing running competitions once in awhile for the sake of studies, but...

Going for tutorials can be very boring, not to mention unproductive as well. Most of the time, the lecturers will just read from our reference books. Who doesn't know how to read from the book? If that is the case, I could have just stayed at home & read them myself! So to make myself feel a lil bit better, I let a friend participate on my behalf in this run.

Went for this run yesterday morning;

This is actually the Singaporean version ;P

Can't find the M'sian version though. But before I describe how was my ordeal in this run, I thought of making a review, a kind of system that I'll go through each time I completed a race. This is how I would review the run based on a few points like difficulty level, fitness level & overall experience, etc. Well, here goes;

Background - 11km @ Universiti Putra M'sia (UPM), Serdang.
Weather - Hot & sunny motherfeather!
Organization - Many aspects missed were out or overlooked by the organizers such as adequate parking spaces, last minute collection of running kit & drink stations. Very bad!
Difficulty - Extremely hard! Most of the time had to run uphills lah! Only managed to maintain a steady pace for the first 30 minutes before tiring out eventually.
Fitness - This part is my fault lah! Only consumed protein instead of carbs which is a bad idea plus didn't drank enough liquid prior to the race. I guess you can pretty much figure out the outcome after that.
Overall - Had a good start, but a bad finish. Couldn't managed to win any medal though, how disappointing. Nevertheless, it taught me a good lesson on where did I went wrong & to make sure I do not repeat the same mistake again during the next run. All in all, UPM is a bloody tough place to compete on!

Back then, only aspiring farmers can study here...

...until they changed their middle name from 'Pertanian' to 'Putra'!

Almost like a city itself

One can get lost here without a map

And I thought Tar College was freaking huge!

Next time I'll train harder, give my best & let God do the rest. Amen ~

"It may sound strange, but many champions are made champions by setbacks" - Bob Richards

Jesus, Truly The Good Man

2010-09-30T12:25:00.000-07:00

I think you guys deserve a super long post, here goes!

Finally, a real challenge

The feeling is better than sex

Hot morning sunshine, phew ~

Bandar Kinrara, Puchong. This has got to be the most difficult venue I've ever ran so far. The town is surrounded by hills, without much shade to protect yourself from the sunlight which is even worse. Looks like it's time I have to start training myself on the treadmill through incline mode.

Gila sial!

Very demoralizing indeed

On a normal road, it would take only 1 hour & 10 minutes for me to finish a distance of 12km. But since this is Bandar Kinrara, it took me an extra 30 minutes to reach the finishing line. God damn hills! Then again, it is a good challenge nevertheless.

Ooh boy, back to school...

I am officially declared a working student. I now have the opportunity to get a taste of both worlds. Right now, I don't plan to quit my job anytime soon. Instead, I wanna see whether I can cope or not of being an undergraduate student & a personal trainer at the same time. Hopefully, I'll get to kill 2 birds with 1 stone, which to obtain a degree qualification & valuable working experience within these next 4 years.

To be honest, I'm still trying to grasp the fact that I've finally managed to secure enrollment in a course which I always wanted so much, Sports Science. It has been my desire ever since I asked myself during Form 5 of what do I want to do after I have completed my SPM examinations? Here's a little story on how the journey took place of the path not usually taken by many;

Imagine your studies is revolved around football everyday

I still remember it was just a few months left before SPM & I happen to came across an advert in the Star newspaper about an unknown college that is offering a Diploma in Football Studies. From that moment I've decided, that is what I wanna do after Form 5! Football has always been my passion. Therefore, my parents used the advert as a motivation in order for me to do well in the SPM examinations.

However I can tell you this, parents nowadays can really tear you down when you least expected. Once you are given false hope & you are willing to do anything, that is when they can & will manipulate you. Instead of keeping their promise during the outcome of my SPM results, I was forced to go to Tunku Abdul Rahman College (Tarc) & study Hospitality Management which is a subject that is very alien for me.

I'm not posting this to tell you how evil my parents were to betray the trust of their son. But I want you to think twice first before promising anyone of anything. It may look insignificant should you fail to keep a promise. On the contrary though, it could be a serious matter with the party involved especially if they are your relatives. So please, be a man of your words!

Travelling through Genting Klang Road everyday to college, what an eyesore!

So now you know why 2007 is one of the darkest years of my life. Being forced to do something that you don't like is as equivalent as a helpless woman being submitted to forced sex, that is the only way I can describe of how it feels to be studying at Tarc throughout 2007! Apart from that, I made alot of enemies either because of language or cultural barrier.

If you're going to study there without mastering any of the Chinese dialects with only Star World & MTV as your source of entertainment, then I'm very sorry. Chances are, you're gonna live a miserable life for the next 2 years upon graduation. The bottom line is, take a tour around the campus environment first before deciding to study at your chosen destination. What the photos in the institution's website show could be a deep contrast with reality!

Racial slurs like "Western dog" or "English pig" are one of the few insults I have to endure almost everyday!

The concept of 1 M'sia is a bloody flawed idea. Even an English speaking dude like me is struggling to get along with his Chinese speaking counterparts. What more with other races?

Past New Year in 2008, I told myself that enough is enough! I just couldn't continue lying to myself that things are gonna be alright. I quit life at Tarc after being there for only just 7 months. I should have stop earlier, but I guess it's never too late for regrets though. So there I was, clueless of what I wanna do since that the option of going to Cyberlynx College is a definite no-no from mummy & daddy. That was until I found a glimpse of hope...

The 3rd time I'm using the same pix!

It's not just about studying football alone, but it's a much wider aspect regarding coaching, management & physiology as well. At least that's what I've learned from the definition of Sports Science. In 2007, I was wandering around aimlessly without a sense of purpose. I guess that in 2008, God's love has given me not just any hope, but genuine hope as well.

Since that the Sports Science course is at degree level in OUM, there is one obstacle left I have to overcome first;

Form 6, motherfeather!

Don't get me wrong, I hate wearing uniforms! No doubt, taking the STPM route is boring & mundane, but enriching as well! It's one of the most daunting path to choose from compared to other Pre-U qualifications. However, I have to constantly remind myself the reason why am I wearing the ugly white shirt & trousers for the next 2 years, which is to earn myself a ticket to OUM. Besides if you look at most of the great personalities in my church, even they themselves have gone through the Form 6 system amen!

Based on my experiences in Tarc, I learned a thing or two about interacting with non-English speaking people which comes in pretty handy during my time as a Form 6 student;

Keep a low profile, literally - I know we suburbanites just love the spotlight but seriously, restrain yourselves when you're in KL. Nobody in the capital likes a 'tall poppy'.
Memorize at least one Chinese song - They will love you for it.
Learn all the Chinese 'colourful' words - Honestly, you don't want to find yourself in a situation saying "Huh?"
Say "Yes, let's go karaoke!" - When in Rome, do what the Romans do ~
Close both eyes - I know, the way they behave & all but just don't criticize them alright?

With these 5 things kept in mind, I manage to survive STPM muahaha!

And the rest is history. To those who think my life is smooth sailing all the time, I have to say no but you are all wrong. You have no idea how much tears, blood & sweat I have to shed. How many setbacks, obstacles & challenges I have to go through just to come this far, saying "I am a personal trainer, a sports science student & a marathon runner". You just don't have a bloody clue...

Just remember lah, the world doesn't function on the efforts of lawyers, accountants & doctors alone. Thousands of people across the world pursue degrees that are unconventional, but it doesn't make the occupation or degree any less credible. If you feel you have a passion for something & that nothing else will do, then it is a career for you. I can assure you, you will not see not obstacles, but rather you will see opportunities coming your way ~

"The Road Not Taken" - Robert Frost

As you can see the path on the left side has alot of footprints on it, although the surrounding looks lush & greenish right? While the the path the right side, barely any signs of it ever being used at all! And at the same time, you can see the scenery looks scary & uncertain isn't it? But life is like that one. The road to be different is always arduous.

If you want to take the right side, I must emphasize that you cannot walk this path alone. You need to walk with people that are taking the same path too. Also don't forget about God ar in this journey. Without Jesus, you can never last the distance for sure one! That's why Thursday & Sundays are specially booked only for the Lord & my church friends every week;

Colours in my world ~

Sumo may be gone, but I still have you guys as friends (:

"Find a job you enjoy, & you'll never work a day in your life" - Confucius

What Now?

2010-09-18T12:04:00.000-07:00

Good things never last, but life goes on

It's been more than a month since I ran

Winning is not the same anymore without that mutt

Bandar Botanic, one of the few sophisticated neigbourhoods left in Klang

All I can say is, August has been a rough month for me. The worst part is not when bad things happen to you, but it's when nobody is willing to share your pain. At least throughout this episode, I know who are the people I can refer to as true friends. Minus all the 'hi & bye' as well as 'I will support you from a distance' type of friends, I realized what a pretty lonely person I am in this cruel world...

The only way I can forget all my sorrow & disappointments is to do the things I love doing again. Besides playing football & training people in the gym, running on the road under the morning sun is where I could escape all my problems for awhile & clear off my mind. Running is a reminder to me that life is like a race & you gotta make sure you finish strongly in that bloody race. Regarding the 'hi & bye', 'support from a distance' or other so called friends, don't ever think that I'm living a perfect life.

Yes I might have unique jobs such as a mystery shopper & fitness instructor, studying an unconventional course like sports science, running competitively every Sunday morning, etc. However at the end of the day, I am still human though. Once in awhile, I would really prefer you to be my friend not because of my achievements but rather because you enjoy my company & presence. Please don't give the impression that only a somebody with status can hang out with the likes of you. That's all I have to say.

So after losing my pet yet beloved dog, where now do I go from here? At the moment, I don't know. But one thing for sure, that I cannot dwell in the past anymore ~

Must keep moving forward!

Life is not the way it's supposed to be. It's the way it is. The way you deal with it is what makes the difference - Virginia Satir

Grief

2010-08-29T06:26:00.000-07:00

Sorry, too depressed to post anything lately...

Please come back...

It felt like as if you lost a family member who is dear to you. If you ask me, I rather trade all my useless medals & have a shorter life span just to see him again. I made that dog promised me something; Don't 'go' yet until your owner has achieve greatness.

"Have faith in Him that a miracle will happen" - Careen Tan

Life has been pretty dull without that mutt

At this point, there's nothing much I could do except to pray that I will hold that stupid dog into my arms again. Though God is silent, though I do not see His hands, though I do not understand His intentions, I still have to trust His heart that Sumo will return one day ~

"My little dog, a heartbeat at my feet" - Edith Wharton

Still The Best Policy

2010-08-12T08:12:00.000-07:00

Been fascinated by Western astrology lately

The half man & half horse

Sagittarians do not believe in deceit & pretension, at least that's what they say. After playing my trade in the fitness industry as well as the working world for almost two months now, I noticed that M'sia has still a long way to go when it comes to earning a profit through honest means.

As a fitness professional, I am to uphold one of the personal trainers code of ethics (according to ACE), which is responsibility to the public. This consists of being truthful & honest when you are talking to your clients. I don't intend of being Mr. Know It All by claiming that I can play both the role of nutritionist, physiotherapist & doctor at the same time just to convince potential clients to train under me!

I really hate it when people tell me that it's okay to 'twist' the truth as long you can close the deal or secure a few sales, "This is M'sia mah, you don't have to be so professional one!" But I am not a typical M'sian mah, for I am a principled man mah. And one of my principles is to be accountable towards my clients mah!

On another note, this was the last meal my Filipino servant prepared for me;

Apple & scramble egg, somehow it's hard to hold back my tears

Not to say I had a close relationship with her, it's just that she had served me wholeheartedly without any complaints throughout these past two years. She could have stayed on longer, if only mum could show a little bit of appreciation towards her rather than shouting at her all the time.

Gave this to her as a memento

Whether if it's a maid, janitor or hard labourer, everyone has their own harga diri. I don't agree that just because one is willing to serve others, doesn't give them the right to take advantage of his/her dignity. I know how it feels like to be shitted upon during my time as a volunteer usher. That is why I gave away one of my medals, so that my servant understood that no deeds should go unrewarded.

The next time someone puts your interest ahead of theirs, at least have the courtesy to say thank you alright?

"Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make man a more clever devil" - C. S. Lewis

What If?

2010-08-01T06:38:00.000-07:00

Jeng jeng jeng!

17th medal, just 3 more to reach this year's target!

(Updated 12th August) - It's a matter of simple strategy really. Since that so many runners would be going for the Shape & Men's Health Night Run on 31st July, what are my chances of securing a position of top 75 among 3000 people in order to win a finishing medal? Very slim right?

That is why I gambled by opting to go for the KLIUC Unity Run instead during the next day, assuming that not many runners especially experienced ones would be participating in this event. And the picture above is the result of the risk I've taken ~

I shed tears, blood, & sweat just for this moment

Like what Michelle Soh posted on her Facebook Wall, "I love my life now. I want it this way. I love it this way". This year in 2010, God has blessed my life so much in abundance until I couldn't contain the blessings! Indeed, I am happy the way my life is at the moment. But if the best is yet to come, then I say bring it on! (:

I love the house of God (:

What will happen, if let's say I am not a member of City Harvest Church? What if I never get to know who Jesus was? What if I am still a free-thinker today? What if I never get to know awesome people like my cell group members? What will the outcome be, if I am not a Christian in the first place? It's scary to think right that such a simple & yet important decision to follow Christ the Lord could become such a life changing experience!

There won't be anymore competitive runs this August, but there is the...

Organised by my company! ;D

Yeah, it's good that we can achieve something for ourselves. But once in awhile, we should also use our gifts & talents to contribute back to society. And no, you don't have to wait until your earn your first million dollars or that dream job you've been yearning for years. You can start doing something meaningful today!

This time, I am not running for any prizes whatsoever. Instead, I am doing it to raise funds so that patients with kidney conditions will have sufficient medical expenses to undergo the treatment they needed. Not for recognition or glory, but to give these people hope so that they too like me can have a second chance in life. What about you? Do you have compassion for the needy & unfortunate? If the answer is yes, then show it!

"We must accept finite disappointment, but we must never lose infinite hope" - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Refreshed

2010-07-28T16:20:00.000-07:00

Those three days were like in Neverland...

Or more like Wonderland perhaps ~

Evenings are always super packed!

Being blessed by Pastor Elijah's preaching

Makan makanan sedap!

Celebrating Shaun's b'day with a talkless rabbit & a freaking clown!

One of the games we played

I felt young again (:

All pictures are courtesy of Sheng Ling!

All I can say is, it's awesome, it's awesome. Can't really remember the last time I enjoyed myself silly. How long has it been since you've ever held a squirt gun in your hand, blasting everyone with water & getting wet? It's so bloody fun, it's almost criminal I tell ya! Staying here made me refuse to grow up nor wanna leave this place!

Seriously, I forgotten what it feels like to be a kid again. Thank God for Winnie Leong. If she didn't invited me to this camp, I would have almost lost all my sanity towards the pressures of work. Like I've said earlier, my daily routine has been quite repetitive lately. I just needed to travel somewhere to escape from all this 'rat race' syndrome for awhile, & this trip couldn't be more timely enough!

I met this chick during high school 4 years ago in 2006. Back then, she was very much like the younger version of me. Living an anarchic life, committing all kinds of vices, without respect whatsoever to authority as if the world owned us something. But today, I see a changed person. From a reckless youth, she has now matured into a beautiful lady (in terms of character lah). One of the best miracles God can give to anyone is, a second chance in life!

Anyway, let's try to achieve something this week shall we?

Wow...

What the hell is this?

The first event looks much more attractive compared to the latter right?

Alright, so why are there two runs altogether? Am I gonna participate for both runs or what? No, I am suppose to choose either one of them. Till now, I am still indecisive on which run should I join. Both are them are super competitive because of the limited finishing medals. But the main factor is that which run will give me a more realistic chance of winning something? Hmm, decisions, decisions...

"Nobody can go back & start a new beginning, but anyone can start today & make a new ending" - Maria Robinson

Dream Killers

2010-07-19T13:21:00.000-07:00

The moment you reached the finishing line, you know the pain is worth it!

The 16th medal, let's go for 20 before the end of this year!

2 Timothy 4:7 - "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith"

Sometimes you have to remind yourself, "What is there to be ashamed of?" Why worry so much or even bother what others think about you? For the past many years, people have been criticizing my passion for sports. "Don't be stupid about making a living through sports, just treat it as a hobby!" This is the same statement I've heard over & over again since I declared to my so called 'friends' back then in 2004 that I want to venture into the sports industry.

They said that I will regret it if I do not let go of my dream

Do I look like a guy with regrets?

Just a little bit of advice for those aspiring to be a somebody one day. Don't let negative comments bring you down. There are alot of cynical people in this world who have a very skeptical view of anything that is different from what they do.

Some of them are people who gave up on their own dreams long ago & deep down, they resent your enthusiasm, your aspirations as well as your persistence in following your own dream, simply because they gave up on theirs.

Even some of these people will delight in planting seeds of doubt within you & thus, tearing you down. Knowledgeable Mystery Shopping Personal Training Warrior says don't let them! Yup, these are the dream crushers, squashers, whatever! However, they have no control over you. It's never too late. Revive your dream if it's already being destroyed, & get creative!

If they don't support you, then go find a circle of new friends. Simple as that!

Just a few more days motherfeather!

I wanna take a break from whatever it is that I'm doing. Work, sports, church, all of it! Since we're gonna have to swim during the trip, I gotta make sure that I work out as much as possible in the gym. The people I'll be travelling with already knew that I'm working as a personal trainer, which means they'll be expecting me to strip off! =P

"You see things; and you say, 'Why'? But I dream things that never were; and say, 'Why not?'" - George Bernard Shaw

The New Guy

2010-07-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

Being a newbie in the marketplace, challenging as hell!

"I am a personal trainer," I never get tired repeating that!

Again all I can say is, it's tough, it's tough. Expectations are high, especially when you are working for companies like Clark Hatch International. No doubt my new job is exciting, but overwhelming as well. Gotta excel no matter what. God, it looks like I'm gonna need your help again!

If you're wondering what CHi Fitness looks like, you're in luck;

After a vigorous workout, you can chill out here at the lounge

The Mind & Body Studio, watch your steps!

Yup, I made it this high. Now let's try to reach for the sky ~

The reading room, or lounge again. Whatever!

Where all the business talk take place, unless you wanna watch some TV!

Everyday, the Power House Studio is always drenched with sweat!

Will we ever find the next Lance Armstrong in The Ride Studio?

A famous T-shirt once said, "Shut up & train!"

I like to move it move it!

Centro, one of the last sanctuaries in Klang from it's uncivilised society

No pain, no gain!

Strong men are made, not born

Stretching, push-ups, sit-ups, etc. Think outside the box!

For beginners, try the circuit machines here!

Your boss is bitchy towards you lately? Then hit the punching bag!

First time in South East Asia, our very own unique Jukari studio!

My desk work! Well, at least part of it

For better health & a better life, Knowledgeable Mystery Shopping Personal Training Warrior (now it sounds better) strongly recommends working out at CHi Fitness!

What am I running for?

There are so many reasons actually. Run for 16th medal, run for success, run for loved ones, reduce stress, excitement, health, 1 M'sia kononnya, so on & on. But the main reason is very clear, I am running for......On the event day itself, you have to write what or who are you running for on your bib number. Be prepared to be shocked on whose name am I gonna write this coming Sunday morning!

"Strong lives are motivated by dynamic purposes; lesser ones exist on wishes & inclinations" - Kenneth Hildebrand

Wearied

2010-07-11T07:20:00.000-07:00

I Was Born To Be Awesome!

While others are sleeping on a Sunday morning, I was running for glory!

My workplace after the run

I can sincerely feel that my dad is proud of me. Whenever he fetches me here & there for running competitions, he knows I never let him down. He only expects one thing from me, which is to give my best regardless of whether I'll win something or not. Not just in sports, but many areas in life as well, such as studies for example. Love what you do not because of the rewards, but do it for the passion instead!

Okay so now it's the seventh month, half of the year is already gone. Let's review my 'performance' in 2010 so far; First of all, I am achieving considerable amount of success in running. Secondly, I managed to secure a fitness job that I really enjoy doing. Thirdly, I still have so much free time for myself, which means either I spend it at the gym working out or playing computer games (like Sims 3, they're so bloody addictive). Last but not least, I finally found someone romantically interested in me, & vice-versa (amen to that)!

So basically my life is very good at the moment. What's next then? Am I content to stay like this or do I want something better? What am I gonna do now since I no longer have any short-term goals left? This question has been making me anxious for quite some time now. After doing some soul-searching, I realized that what I really need right now is a well-deserved vacation! And that place might be;

Tiara Beach Resort motherfeather!

No, it's not the theme park that attracts me but...

The serene night view ~

The last time I had a vacation was last December when I went to Singaypoh for a relative's wedding. For Asia Conference (AC) during May, that one not counted! Because I barely had time at all to catch my breath! Be warned that if you're gonna follow me to the next AC in 2012, be prepared for long hours of standing, health deterioration & worst of all, extreme exhaustion from critical deprivation of sleep!

But honestly, the reason why I desperately need a vacation nowadays is due to my repetitive weekly routine. Which is why I need to try something new & rejuvenate my vigour! Really must thank God for this randomness. While I was Facebooking, out of a sudden someone from the CF of Taylor's University College invited me for a camp in Port Dickson. It's a date then, 23rd of July. Please, let time fly faster!

"We live in a very tense society. We are pulled apart...and we all need to learn how to pull ourselves together...I think that at least part of the answer lies in solitude" - Helen Hayes

Inspired

2010-07-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

New job is keeping me very busy lately. I'll write a long post after my next run, but no promises!

My workplace as well, what a coincidence!

Challenging, but exciting! That is all I can describe for now of what it feels like to be a personal trainer. Anyway, this run is kinda tough because medals are limited therefore I have to be competitive as ever to win something. To this day, 14 medals have been won. Will there be a milestone of 15? There's only one way to find out;

RUN!

"Running is a big question mark that's there each and every day. It asks you, 'Are you going to be a wimp or are you going to be strong today?'" - Peter Maher

A Tragic Sunday

2010-06-27T23:40:00.000-07:00

The risk of collapsing & fainting during runs is always imminent. Therefore, always expect the unexpected!

Funny looking shape, but still a medal is a medal!

I understand that everybody wants to be a winner, no problem with me. The only thing that bothers me is when a person refuses to go through the road of preparation & yet, expecting results to happen. Thus, when you didn't manage to get what you want, you start pointing fingers at others for your misfortune!

Volunteers setting up booths early in the morning

Runners were presented their finishing medals & free gifts

Runners receiving minor treatment

Here is a runner smiling like an idiot =P

Someone actually lost his life yesterday. Apparently, he suffered from a cardiac arrest during the run. There were probably around 16000 runners participated in this event, where the majority are made up by beginners whom had never finish a 10km race before. I predicted that the victim's family is likely gonna sue the organisers for negligence.

If you think about it, would the guy be still alive if he had prepared himself both physically & mentally? Personal Mystery Shopping Trainer has no problem with people wanting to achieve greatness, he's perfectly fine with it. But please discipline yourself first! I'm not just referring to the dead guy because many runners were also making the same mistakes. Though they were small, they can be potentially fatal as well should you choose to be ignorant;

Didn't had breakfast or something to eat prior to the run
Didn't had a proper warm up
Didn't conditioned yourself physically through regular training (I think that's how he died, padan muka!)
Sprinting too early from the start
Never gave yourself time to catch your breath due to personal pride (lagi padan muka!)

Okay sympathise the dead guy a bit lah. Even though it was his own mistake in the first place, you have to take the medical officers to be held responsible too because their ambulance van lack the the most basic equipment necessary needed for emergency situations, which is a Defibrillator (something like a mask to supply oxygen). What is this man? You can't just go to the roadside looking for potential patients to help without any equipment available whatsoever!

The 'tidak apa' attitude by M'sians, it's so typical of them ~

"By failing to prepare you are preparing to fail" - Benjamin Franklin

Crossroads

2010-06-22T12:16:00.000-07:00

I've been in my comfort zone for too long. Soon, trials will come knocking on my door!

The time has come for me to make a big decision!

It has been confirmed. Starting next month, I'll be working at Centro Klang as a part-time personal trainer. There's a problem though. My working days is between Monday to Friday, which means I can't go to cell group anymore on Thursdays in order to sustain my job. If I have to sacrifice cell group, that means I am putting God aside!

The first day of July is the day I'll be signing the contract to finalise things up. I could ask my boss to give me a day off on Thursdays in exchange of working extra hours during Saturdays so that I won't neglect my religious obligations. Even so, this alternative will cause another problem to occur!

You see, most of the running competitions I've participated so far are held on weekends. If I choose to give up my Saturdays instead, my career as an athlete will be in jeopardy. There is just no perfect solution to my predicament. This one cannot! That one also cannot! Either way will force me to make a sacrifice in favour of the other. So the question is, will I put God or my career first? I'm at a crossroad here people!

Which way should I take?

The reason why I put alot of emphasis on this issue is because the outcome can either elevate a whole new breakthrough into my life or tear down everything I have build on & bring me back to the drawing board again! Because of one stupid decision, my life in 2007 was a living nightmare. Surely, I do not want a repeat of 2007!

Going to cell group is like going for Christian fellowship, just like the one you see during high school. It may look like a small matter or rather an unimportant event but I've seen people backslided before for not coming to cell group, among other things as well such as prayer meeting, church, etc. Not immediately of course, but you will see their lives start to fall apart slowly bit by bit. This is something I want to avoid of, which is why I must think this through very carefully!

To create a win-win situation with God, I was thinking why don't I attend another cell group during weekends. Ar see so simple, problem solved! But, but, butt! I doubt my leaders will accept this idea, I'm not really sure why but I have a strong feeling it will not go down well with them (think of Wayne Rooney transferring to Liverpool).

Whatever it is, I only have less than a week to make a decision. God, tell me what should I do!

27th June, 7am at Dataran Merdeka. Be there or be square!

Annually, this is one of the biggest marathons in M'sia. When I say biggest, it means there are hundreds of celebrities & personalities participating in this run. Apart from that, the number of runners is enough to make an army! I'm glad I can now give myself a reason to start hitting the treadmill again. So far I know six people will be joining this event too, one of them who is none other than my favourite guy, Teh Yong Yuan!

Courtesy of Nova

Seriously, you gotta love this dude! He's the reason why I keep coming back to serve in the usher ministry again & again. He's like the best brother anyone could ever have, gayishly speaking. It's very hard to find people like him nowadays who just want to build a relationship with you rather than seeing what you can offer him in return. Mystery Shopper gives his professional recommendation that you go make friends with this bloody son of a...

Anyway, you'll be shocked to know that Teh is planning to run a full marathon this coming Sunday. A full marathon is worth 42km, that is like four times my category which is only 10km! My God, only elite athletes can compete in a full marathon because they are mentally prepared & physically conditioned for such long distances. Whereas Teh is just...you know, Teh. Nevertheless, I admire his spirit for attempting the impossible. And it is his spirit that earn him my utmost respect for him, both as a leader & friend ~

"To become truly great, one has to stand with people, not above them" - Charles de Montesquieu

When Learning Is No Longer Joyful

2010-06-19T00:55:00.000-07:00

Your best days as a student is during university, or is it?

Tan Vi June actually has this shirt!

C'mon people, is university life really that bad? Besides describing it as boring, tough, stressful, hectic or hellish, don't you have any positive comments at all? I am gonna pursue my basic degree this coming September. You guys should be encouraging me, not the other way around!

One of my previous postings stated on why I envied others whom are studying in traditional universities besides mine;

"What I really want out of my university years is a campus life. In other words, a campus life is where I get to hang out & make new friends, join clubs & societies, represent the university as a delegate at special events & who knows, probably get a girlfriend! That is what OUM actually lacks in, a large space for students to develop their social & creativity skills"

However, this is not the case though. Whenever I ask you people on how's life in uni, I can expect only the typical response, which is either boring, tough, stressful, hectic or hellish because of assignments, exams & presentations! So cham meh? I thought being a student is suppose to be the most exciting & enriching experience of your lives!

If this is the only picture I can remember of myself when I grow old, then forget it. Count me out!

Hell no!

You guys very funny lah. I am the one suppose to be complaining you know because I thought (ar see, again I thought) I'm at a disadvantage here because my chosen uni is not a 'normal' uni, you get what I mean? In other words, I don't attend lecture halls or tutorial classes like everyone does. Instead, I am given the flexibility to arrange meetings with my prospective lecturers of where & when to meet up. Come to think of it, it's actually a good thing isn't it?

OUM, are we destined to make beautiful music together?

But seriously, show me some enthusiasm about your respective unis & courses, okay guys? It's awesome to be a student, & it should be. Always be hungry to seek knowledge. Always be curious to know how things work. And please don't complain, because there are others out there whom are not as fortunate as you to even get an education in the first place. The next time you see me, you know what to do right? Encourage me ~

"I like a teacher who gives you something to take home to think about besides homework" - Lily Tomlin

Sell Sell Sell

2010-06-15T22:03:00.000-07:00

I finally got a job, yucky sucky! That sounds so mature!

Guess which gym am I working for?

These are the criteria I've set myself for consideration before finding a job;

Working hours must be between 4-6 hours per day
Saturday & Sundays are my off-days
I can still participate in sporting events & go for church
Cannot, & I mean cannot clash with studies
Workplace not too far from home
Most of the time, I only need to use either English or Malay during conversations
I get to wear shorts for work
Wages not less than RM800 per month
I can still be myself, literally
Hot chicks, lots of hot chicks. That means a KFC outlet has to be nearby

A bit too much right? I may be ACE certified, but that doesn't mean I could use my qualifications to call the shots rather than my prospective boss. Nevertheless, if I cannot fulfill all of the criteria above, I should at least able to secure a part-time position. This is the main priority, go part-time!

But very hard lah to find a part-time job at fitness centres these days! Everywhere I went around Subang also told me the same thing, "We only want full-time staffs, not part-timers." Just when I'm about to give up my colourful lifestyle by working full-time instead, an idea popped up in my head.

I remembered while I was still undergoing through the process of getting certified, one my coursemates managed to find a part-time job in a well known gym nearby the Curve. Therefore, I've decided to do the same thing by first visiting that particular gym's main branch in Klang.

Centro Klang, so far?

It's not that far lah actually. Just take a RapidKL bus from the Sri KL School & then you will reach Klang in less than 30 minutes! How I know ar? This is something you'll obtain after working for awhile as a mystery shopper, navigation skills motherfeather!

The manager I've met over there for interview was actually a very nice person. She has no problem in hiring me part-time. The only thing she's concerned about me is my lack of experience in doing sales & inability to converse in Chinese! Alright I'll explain what does the first problem mean.

All commercial gyms have only one goal, which is to sell sell sell. If they can't sell, then can't get profit. And if they can't get profit, then they can't expand or even survive! As a personal trainer in commercial gyms, I have to persuade potential clients to sign up up for membership as well as personal training sessions in which my course did not prepare me for this aspect, the business part!

The second problem is that the people in Klang, whom the majority are Chinese either don't speak England or American, similar to their cousins in KL. The manager went on to say that these folks are not sophisticated nor cultured unlike those living in the suburbs. But I want to stress one thing. It's not about who is better. We are just different, that's all! Sorry ya please don't get mad if you're from Klang or KL!

So to avoid language barrier, I asked the manager if she can employ me in this branch instead;

PJ Trade Centre, motherfeather!

Honestly, I really fell in love with Damansara ever since my course started here last February. I'll be damn happy if I can get this branch instead of Klang. Just imagine it, the Curve & 1 Utama is like just located beside your workplace everyday. So awesome right?

Even if I must work in Klang, it's okay, it's okay *pat myself on the back*. At the end of the day, the company I'll be working for is a BIG name in the fitness industry. I can't tell you which gym exactly because I want you to personally ask me in person, muahaha!

"Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary" - Cecil Beaton

Baby

2010-06-11T20:19:00.000-07:00

"He's so bloody annoying, he doesn't even know what love is!" - A typical hate fan of Justin Bieber

"I love Justin Bieber, NOT!" - Peter Chao

He seems to be everywhere on the radio! His 'Baby baby baby ooh' chorus will echo into your head wherever you go. He won so many admirers for his talents & at the same time, many haters as well (including a handful of my churchmates). But why exactly do people hate him so much? This phenomenon has been fascinating me lately as such a young talented singer can earn so much hatred for what he does;

"He sings like a girl!"

"He's too young...& short!"

"He sucks!"

Enemy spotted!

Looking from the context of behaviour psychology, I would say his haters are experiencing what we call as Tall Poppy Syndrome (TPS)

Don't get me wrong. His songs are not my taste, neither do I like him. But does that mean I have to hate him for that? Imagine a chick hates me just because I look like her ex boyfriend, WTF!? You can claim that he sucked, but what success have YOU achieve compared to his? He's only what, 15, 16 years of age? What have YOU accomplished during his age if you say Justin Bieber is an epic failure?

Hate him all you want. You can complain to God that he doesn't deserve his success. But while you are living in anger & hatred, people like Justin are already moving on to achieve even greater things in his life. Now that's cold hard reality! In conclusion, I've learned that too much success in a short period of time will see others with chainsaws coming right at you!

No one likes to see others more successful than them. Beware, those whom aspire to be great!

*Sigh*

Believe or not, I ain't gonna watch the World Cup. Since M'sia did not qualify for it, there's no reason for me to be supporting other countries. For too long the church has been rallying it's members to keep believing in God for a revival in this nation. But you guys don't even believe that God can work a miracle for our national football team! How then can a revival be ever realized ooh you faithless goons?

You all may not know this, but I'm actually deeply disappointed that our country is always been looked down upon by others when it comes to football, among many other things as well. As a man of pride, I really don't like to be laughed at. Of course, I can always change my nationality of a better country. But to me, that is a cowardly act. I refuse to take the easy way out. I want to finish what our forefathers has started for this cursed nation. God, let not my idiotic decision be in vain!

"Constant complaining without any action makes us equally responsible for our current situation" - Hannah Yeoh

Manhood

2010-06-06T18:59:00.000-07:00

"Circumstances are the rulers of the weak, they are but the instruments of the wise" - Samuel Lover

13th medal, *roar*!

Wah good good! This run was well organized & planned, very impressed indeed! There are three mistakes I've made though prior to this run; 1. Didn't had my breakfast (oops) 2. Didn't warmed up properly (double oops) 3. Sprinting from the start (triple oops). And the results are? Dragging my body throughout the run while feeling jaded, hoping to see the light at the end of the tunnel! So remember kids, the will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital!

One of the cultures of CHC; get to know your neighbours within 3 minutes!

I think it's time I whack some of the guys in church *bitching mode power on*! Men, stop watching action movies & complained to me on how underachieved your life is. And please lah, stop crying during praise & worship, praying to God that something great will happen in your life. I bet my whole life savings nothing will ever happen! Do you know why?

God will only MOVE when you MOVE! If you're gonna let your circumstances dictate on how you should live your life then rest assured, you will live a mediocre life! Don't let excuses like work, exams or assignments hinder you from making important decisions in life. Most of you already allowed these excuses stopping you from going to Asia Conference & missed the amazing transformation power of God, how pathetic!

Looks guys, seriously ask yourselves this. When is the LAST TIME you've ever felt adrenaline rushing through your body by doing something great, enjoyable & purposeful at some point in your lives since high school? Can't answer me right? That means you have already forgotten what it feels like to be a real man. It's okay, it's okay *pat you on the back*, you can always follow my example;

Join a marathon, motherfeather!

I assure you, if you decide to join me in running events, you will feel like a man again! When you reach the finishing line, you will feel a sense of satisfaction that you have overcome an obstacle. When you receive your medal upon completing the race, you will feel that you have accomplished something great in your life. When you look back to this day from many days to come, you can proudly say to yourself & to your future grandchildren, "I was once part of something great, & it shall stay with me forever!"

Don't tell me "see first lah Marc", just do it!

"The people & circumstances around me do not make me what I am, they reveal who I am" - Laura Schlessinger

Excitingly Overflowed

2010-05-22T15:32:00.000-07:00

OOH MY GOD!

*Happily jumping up & down* ;D

Congrats to those whom also got their ACE cert. Feels like I'm over the moon right now because with this cert, I am spoiled for choice of where do I wanna work as a personal trainer. But before I start finding work, there is one thing I have to overcome first;

It's time to feel the adrenaline rush again

I have decided. I do not want to run for personal pride anymore, but this time I want to run for Jesus. I want His glory to be magnified through me. I want others to see that through Him, you can have a second chance in life. When I run for myself, I always feel unsatisfied & thus, become very competitive. But when I start to run for Him instead, I feel that I'm finally fulfilling my purpose. When you try to please others, they want to see how good you are. But when you want to please God, He doesn't look at your abilities but rather, He looks at your heart & sincerity in serving Him.

My talents & gifts are now at Your disposable. Lord, use them wisely ~

This is only 1/10 of the crowd!

What can I say about the five days trip to Asia Conference in Singapore? Honestly, there are just too many good things to list out here. All I can say is, sign up for their next conference in 2012. Screw exams, assignments & work! You seriously don't have a clue what you've missed & will be missing on!

Gotta thank Delvin, Careen & Alfred whom strongly encouraged me to go although I was first skeptical about it. Serious shit, it was way beyond my expectations. The conference really captured my imagination & transformed me in a way where I would never think & see things the same ever again. Still dunno what I'm talking about? Then sign up in the next two years!

I have tons of pictures to show you, but I think this trailer can give you a better idea what we've actually went through

Our M'sian Parade of Schools Team below. They make me so proud *sob*

Awesome stuff by the church's main branch (Warning: lower your speaker volume first!)

Alright that's enough, remember to sign up two years later!

"Do something great at some point in your life and you develop a thirst for more or at the very least, you can remember the times when you were great" - Kevin Burns

Excitingly Deprived II

2010-05-18T06:16:00.000-07:00

The awesome part bout travelling is, the process of packing up your suit case!

I know my church's main branch in Singapore is rich, but this is like oh my God!

Last Sunday the church had a briefing with the participating members for the Asia Conference on what are they suppose to do & expect before, during & after their 5 days trip in Kiasuland. I was notified that food & drinks won't be included, which means I gotta bring my own supplies or plan where to makan over there.

That one no problem for me. What I'm more concerned is where am I gonna live in Singapore because luck plays a major role as some members will get lousy places to stay while others will get comfortable accommodations. Thank God they put me under Stansfield Residence, one of Singapore's largest luxurious hostels;

Similar to Temptations' exterior layout at Taylor's

Kinda cramped, don't you think so?

The lounge, nice ~

Hope they sell booze at their mini-mart

Great place for BBQ

No choice, in 5 days definitely I must wash something

Even better than my bathroom at home!

Alright, jackpot motherfeather!

Remind me to visit either Geylang, Chinatown or Orchard Towers. Don't bother asking why! ;P

Lucky #12!

Yup, all the time invested for training has finally paid off it's dividends. Amazingly, my legs were still quite fresh after finishing a total distance 15km. In that case, it's just matter of time before I'm ready to compete in my first half marathon. When I think back of all the feats I have achieved through sports especially in such a short period of time, I realized how bless am I to be a Christian.

Seriously, 12 medals? Wow! Who have thought of Marc coming this far? They all perceived him to be a destined failure from the beginning but look at him now, proving them wrong. Sometimes I wonder why God is so good to me all the time. I mean if you think about it, don't I deserve to live a miserable live after causing so much trouble & hurt during my younger days?

Perhaps the Lord wants to prove through me that everyone deserves a second shot in life ~

"I must learn to love the fool in me who feels too much, talks too much, takes too many chances, wins sometimes & loses often, lacks self-control, loves & hates, hurts & gets hurt, promises & break promises, laughs & cries" - Theodore Isaac Rubin

Excitingly Deprived

2010-05-12T23:42:00.000-07:00

So much time, so little things to do. How boring it is when you're not busy ~

What do you think of a guy who celebrates Mother's Day by watching Eye Pee Man 2 with his mum?

I just came back from a fine dining lunch experience at Truffles, Taylor's Lakeside Campus. By just stepping into the college's entrance alone, you can feel there is a sense of pride instilled among the students as you pass them by;

Only the best can study here

Majestic outdoor landscape

Ooh...

Wahseh...

Booyaka...

A feature that makes this campus so popular, the lakeside

Sorry, couldn't get any photos of the restaurant though. But for once, I felt blessed to be living here in Subang. Apart from Sunway Pyramid, the country's elite institutions are all here; Taylor's, Inti, Segi, Metropolitan, Sunway, Monash, One Academy, you name it!

Honestly, I really wanted to study at any of the places mentioned above. Sadly, they don't have the course of my desired choice. It's surprising to see that despite a huge demand for graduate professionals in the sports & fitness industry, there aren't many colleges & universities that offer such courses related to the science of sports.

Speaking of Sports Science, I have hesitantly decided to study at OUM instead rather than Tarc. It's perplexing to discover that Tarc is willing to offer me the Sports Science course, but only at diploma level! The reason is due to STPM students whom were admitted at degree level in the past but were struggling to cope & eventually dropped out therefore from now on, only students with diploma qualifications of the same course can be admitted into their degree programs, not STPM nor A-Level students.

I tried to argue that since I have taken the Sports Science subject at STPM level as well as the Personal Trainer Certification course by Fitness Innovations with a foundation of Exercise Science background in it, I shouldn't have a problem coping at degree level compared to other STPM students. However, Tarc has decided not to take chances & asked me to repeat all the way from Pre-U again which is at diploma level!

God damn it! There goes my chance of catching up with my peers whom are already 1 or 2 years ahead of me. Should I manage to get a spot into Tarc's degree programs, I would have been able to graduate in just less than 2 years. Alas! I have no choice but to go to OUM instead which can drag up to 4 or 5 years upon graduation because their courses are only available for part-timers.

So yeah if I have to blame someone, it would be those STPM students whom had taken the wrong subjects during Sixth Form that were not relevant to their chosen courses. If just say you really want to study IT for example, then why did you took up unrelated subjects like Geography or History in the first place? Thanks alot! You guys are really smart wei! Seriously, give yourselves an applause!

My last hope, I hope

What I really want out of my university years is a campus life. In other words, a campus life is where I get to hang out & make new friends, join clubs & societies, represent the university as a delegate at special events & who knows, probably get a girlfriend! That is what OUM actually lacks in, a large space for students to develop their social & creativity skills. The only thing they have is a freaking library & a computer lab. Very disappointing indeed!

If that is the case, there's only one solution; do all those shit outside of the university. Surely it would cost me alot of money but definitely I can't afford to sacrifice my university years by just sitting at home, infront of my laptop doing assignments & studying thick reference books. Once I move on into the working world a.k.a the Rat Race after university, it might be too late for regrets!

Goosebumps, I always I get that before a race (:

The furthest distance I've ever ran so far in my life is 12km. Without a doubt, my legs will be pushed to the limits this coming Sunday. If I can finish 15km within the time limit (1 hour & 30 minutes) stipulated, not only will I earn a medal, but a breakthrough in my life as well. The Knowledgeable Warrior prepares himself physically, but is he mentally ready after a loss suffered during his last 10km run?

"It's not whether you get knocked down; it's whether you get back up" - Vince Lombardi

Win Some, Lose Some

2010-05-02T07:08:00.000-07:00

After achieving 7 medals in a row, my winning streak has finally come to an end

Only a God damn cert as a consolation

I'm a little bit disappointed right now. Couldn't manage to secure a position of top 100 during the World Firefighter's Day Run earlier this morning at Dataran Merdeka. But the results was initially expected. It's not easy at all to be the top 100 out of 2000 runners. Plus, there are many national & state athletes participated in this run so yeah...

On the positive side though, my performance was very good. After going through vigorous training on the treadmill for several weeks, my stamina has improved significantly. I tried using the carbohydrate loading strategy a few days before the competition in order to increase my glycogen storage. As a result, I was able to maintain a constant speed throughout the 10km journey as I rarely feel tired at all.

I have to remind myself that sometimes it's okay to experience failures. This minor setback shouldn't discouraged nor deter me from trying to get my 12th medal again in the near future. As long as I learn from past mistakes & pick myself up from there, this morning event would be a long forgotten episode.

"If at first you don't succeed, you are running about average" - M.H. Alderson

Singaypoh here I come, again ~

At last, my ACE & FIT exams are over. Which means I am currently super free for the whole month of May. With so much time on my hands, I can now fully concentrate on upcoming running competitions without any distractions whatsoever. At the end of May (26th-31st), I'll be going to Singapore again for the greatly anticipated Asia Conference. Judging from other friends reviews, I predicted it's gonna be an awesome experience.

This conference is actually held every two years whereby prominent church leaders from all around the world will come & preach together. Honestly, I'm not very keen on such events because if I want the blessings of God, I can always ask Him directly face to face. Why do I need to travel to another country & go through a few pastors just to get the anointing? If people think that the latter is the only solution, that clearly reflects how weak their faith really are.

However, the relatively low registration fees is too good for me to turn down. Within the price of just RM250, I'll be included with transportation, lodging & food as well. Besides, Careen has already promised to refund back my money if I'm not satisfied during the trip. By making such a bold claim, I guess she is serious that this conference is really gonna be life-changing.

Perhaps I have done myself a big favour, who knows?

"Pain is temporary. It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place. If I quit, however, it lasts forever" - Lance Armstrong

ACE

2010-04-20T07:27:00.000-07:00

If you ask where am I studying, then you are asking me a very tough question to answer!

That is because I am not currently studying in any college or university, but more like a non-profit organization. And I'm not pursuing some kind of degree or diploma but more of a professional cert instead. So complicated right?

I really like this, courtesy of Gladys Tan

Super busy wei in these next two weeks! Exams keep on coming after another. The biggest of them all will the American Council on Exercise (ACE) exam on May 1st. The word "American" itself already sounds scary because unlike our M'sian education system, the Americans don't just memorize stuffs into their heads & then muntah balik during exam hoping for the best.

Instead, they have to also use the knowledge they've learned into real life simulated situations which can be very tough for us M'sians considering the rigid type of system we went through. Now you know why they are so many lousy M'sian graduates in the job market. Studying is one thing, but putting what you've studied into application is a whole lot different matter.

C'mon Marc, just two more weeks & then freedom! Well not exactly...

That is why, you should always practise your communication & presentation skills. These are very important but often overlooked qualities by M'sian students!

Jeng jeng jeng!

This run is held a day after my ACE exam. Which means not only I gotta prepare for upcoming exams, but I too have to prepare for running competitions again very soon. Can one juggle sports & studies at the same time? Only time will tell...

I noticed that only the first 100 runners to reach the finish line would be eligible for a finishing medal. According to the forecast, an estimation of 2000 runners would be joining this competition. Mathematically, I have to beat the other 1900 runners if I ever want to win something from this run.

Honestly, I do not feel confident at all. I have been training hard, so are the others as well. At the end of the day, it's all about the mental strength & will power. Do I have the tenacity to last the distance? I do not know. But I do know that it is not easy for a person to declare boldly, "I wanna run 10km under the morning hot sun!"

"There's no substitute for guts" - Paul Bear Bryant

Self Rediscovery

2010-04-10T09:38:00.000-07:00

I'm a nice guy really. Except when I'm blogging!

I'm giving out free personal training as part of my assessment from FIT at the moment. I thought the church could be a good place to find interested individuals whom want to get into shape. Boy, was I so wrong!

Ever wondered why your boss is sick by just looking at you?

The main reason why people don't want to hire PT's is because their services are too expensive. Okay, fair enough. But what about free personal training? Wow! Sounds like a good deal, when can I get started? Anytime, anywhere motherfeather!

However (man I always like to complain), despite me able to find some potential clients to work with, they can't commit themselves at all whatsoever to come for training. Even 1 hour a week of exercise seem to be the most impossible task for them to do here on earth!

"Crikey God damn it!" - The late Steve Irwin

Some of you might justify yourselves, "But Marc, you have to understand that most of us have to meet deadlines at work, exams to study for, handing up assignments, yada yada..." Whatever lah! You can come up with 1001 excuses for not exercising but you can't give me one good reason on why you should exercise?

"Sorry Marc, I got bible study, cell group, & church practice for upcoming special events!"

I can also get very annoyed when Christians use church as an excuse for not moving their arses. It's like trying to say that it is God's fault that they are not working out when the truth is, they are just plain lazy! Besides me & Aaron the bodybuilder, I can't really think of anyone else in City Harvest who takes their health seriously.

You can pray to God & fast all you want till cows come home, but those love handles are gonna stay there unless you do something about them

Look, I know some of you told me you have complications. The doctor said your blood pressure is high, your cholesterol level is high, your blood sugar is high, everything is high & obviously, you don't need a rocket scientist telling what should you be doing. Don't wait until the problem gets worse & you have to end up paying expensive medical bills. Why cure when you can prevent instead?

First they say smoking is cool, & now this?

The bible says that we our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit therefore it our responsibility to take good care of them. If you can go pak tor, makan outing, yum char session, watch movie, shopping or go 'happy hour' with your 'biscuits', why not spend the time instead to give your body the exercise it deserves? No time huh? Pathetic & lame excuse!

C'mon! Stop being a couch potato & quit whining that your stomach looks fat because it is you lazy bum!

Courtesy of Derek Kaka'an (dude on my left)

Actually I don't really want to elaborate much on how was my ordeal at the football camp because I am so bloody exhauted. All I can say is, it was an amazing experience to learn a thing or two from an UEFA "A" license holder (Jon Hamilton on the far right) because that is the highest qualification any football coach can get.

Just to make things clear, this is not a camp where I've learned solely on how to be a better player. Instead, I was also being coached on how to be a future coach with lots of emphasis on Christian values. I may have to obtain my basic "D" license separately either from the FAM or AFC because the certification they gave me from this camp is not internationally recognized therefore if I wanna cari makan, only a few places I could go to with such a cert.

Pastor Kevin has big plans of setting up a sports ministry once the new church building is ready for operation probably in August. By then, I would be a very busy & happy man. For the first time, I could finally use both of my legs to serve God. It's a very timely move considering how physically inactive our church members are.

I'm like a kid in a candy store!

Do you believe people should deserve a second chance in life? Or if you ever screwed up once then that's it, you're condemned for the rest of your life? During the first day in camp, we were made to watch this;

Rock, when are you gonna go back to wrestling?

Basically it's about a bunch of hopeless juveniles whom were good for nothing except to cause trouble. A coach (Sean Porter) challenged them to fight for their dignity as well as proving to society of their worth by playing football, American football! Through sports, they've learned the importance of teamwork, respecting one another & discovered a sense of purpose in themselves.

These juveniles reminded me on how I was such an asshole during high school. Yes, Knowledgeable Mystery Shopping Warrior has a dark history that he's not proud of. But through the grace & mercy of Jesus, he now has a second chance to do what is right.

Lord I'm doing, all I can, to be better man ~

I admit, I did alot of things I shouldn't have done. I know I've hurt alot of people in the past, both mentally & physically. If you are like me back then, it's okay, its' okay *virtually pat you on the back*, because God loves you & He is willing to give you a second chance. And yes for some reason I'm feeling gay lately which explains why the sentimental shit & all.

During camp, they also made us watch this;

"I hated the world. Then I felt a hand on my shoulder" - Derek Redmond

The Reality Of Being A Realist

2010-04-02T03:31:00.000-07:00

"Keep away from those who try to belittle your dreams. Small people always do that, but the really great make you believe that you too can become great" - Mark Twain

This is for you Jesus. Happy Easter & Good Friday ;)

The tally is now 11 medals. Of course, the best is yet to come. Not just upcoming medals waiting to be grabbed, but also important events that would be the turning point of my life. I'll be taking a short break from running marathons this April. Honestly I am getting bored of winning, which is why I want to 'starve' myself & feed that burning 'hunger' of what it feels to be a winner again when May has arrived.

Probably one of the most smartest things the Knowledgeable Warrior has ever done in his boring but gradually becoming more exciting life is to mix around with the right people. If you ever come across successful people, make sure you learn as much as you can from them. Celebrities, models, entertainers, entrepreneurs & other professionals, these are the people I have received advices from on what it takes to be the top of the food chain in society.

I managed to gather more information about the football camp (More Than A Game or MTAG) that I'll be attending next week on April 6th-10th. It is going to be held at OUTBAC Broga, an outdoor adventure campsite located in Negeri Sembilan. An Englishman from the UK will facilitate the program, & that makes me nervous. For the first time I am representing City Harvest Church as a delegate for this event, which is lagi nervous for me!

Multipurpose Hall

Rock Climbing

Flying Fox

Dining Area

Campfire

Last but not least, a football field

Can you believe it? Who's going to wash my dirty socks, boots, & jersey for me!?

Then there is my upcoming ACE exam due on May 1st. Should I pass this exam, I'll be then certified as a Personal Fitness Trainer that allows me to work anywhere I desire! Did I also mentioned that Tarc & OUM have approved my applications respectively to study for their Sports Science programs? Everything seem to be falling into place for the Lord's anointed. All I have to do is keep focus & make sure that 2010 is not merely a gimmick of false hopes but rather, a year of breakthroughs!

There is an extraordinary man I want to introduce you to;

Ego meets Gay

His name is Jasper a.k.a Koujee. I know what you're thinking, what's with the retarded Japanese name? Well believe it or not, Koujee is Jasper's stage name as a performer. And what does he perform? Beatboxing, motherfeather!

Do you know that this dude flunked his SPM with just one credit & yet, academics did not hinder him from being an achiever? Does a person who scores a string of A's can only be considered an achiever? In Jasper's case, I don't think so. I don't know who brainwashed you with such mentality, but don't ever underestimate a person's true potential just because they can't excel in terms of studies.

Like I've said before, education is important though it is not the only route to success. I don't understand why parents nowadays are so obsessed with their kids having a degree. What if I want to become a ballet dancer as my bread & butter? Do I need to get a degree just to prove that I can dance? Like Peter Chao said, you don't make sense!

If there is such thing of a degree in ballet dancing, I still can't pursue my dreams to be a ballet dancer though because mommy & daddy said that such professions cannot cari makan here in M'sia! Are your kids really so useless that they don't deserve to be unique? Who else can they look up to for inspiration if their parents don't even believe in them? Yes, I am bloody angry because my own folks have the same narrow minded thinking as well.

"Life ain't being about creative. It's about kissing ass, playing it safe, making your boss lots of money & hopefully one day, he'll throw you a stinking bone!" - Michael Newman

Imagination is more important than knowledge, but nobody took these kids & Einstein seriously ~

Society Attacks Dreamers

All children dream and play make-believe. For some reason, as they grow older, they are instructed to stop dreaming and face reality. Reality seems to be important, whether it be friends, parents, or teachers. Academic education has top priority while dreams have low priority. Yet, there has never been an achievement that did not begin with a dream. There has never been success without many failures. Why is it that society wants everyone to succeed without failure? Why does society have a need to kill dreams, especially with teenagers?

During the dreaming stage, one is alone with his seemly impossible ideas. When talking about ideas, the first reaction is... "Where did he get that nutty idea?" All great inventors and achievers go through this phase, especially during the failure days. After a few successes, people say nothing about wild ideas. Add a few more successes; everyone will support any idea you have.

It takes persistence to find what works. Only you realize your ideas have possibilities, the public will not realize possibilities until you prove them to be of value. After the Wright Brothers invented the airplane and proved man can fly, it took two years before anyone thought flying was a practical idea. The U.S. Army rejected consideration of the invention outright. All through the development years, people considered The Wright Brothers nuts. To shield themselves from criticism, they only informed people who could help them and took criticism, if necessary, for their help.

Employers want motivated people. The problem is, they want employees' motivation to be built around the company’s interest. If I applied for a job and said, "my ambition is to earn money to buy a boat, sail to the South Seas and chase girls," I would be escorted out the door. The theory is, people whose ambitions are different from the company’s will not be dedicated to their job. The fact is, people with ambitions are dedicated to anyone who will help them reach their goals. People who don’t have dreams or ambitions are not motivated and are not dedicated to anything except the paycheck.

Many people yield to dream killers. In their thoughts, "my friends are right, my ideas are all nutty" and give up. This belief may be true when first exploring an idea. There is no such thing as success on the first try, except in the classroom. Giving up is losing ambition, opportunity, higher income, and eventual success. A downward spiral of self-esteem follows.

Which category are you in?

I have the balls to be different. Do you have balls?

Finally

2010-03-22T21:47:00.000-07:00

When in Rome, do what the Romans do. Likewise in M'sia, do what the M'sians do!

Always park your car in the middle of the road like this donkey here

Parking the professional way

"Our grandfathers road. What the fuck you care!?" - Car owners of MBA 2337, WLY 9864 & MBA 2223

Welcome to M'sia, home of the rude & unethical drivers ;)

Want to see more? Come to Damansara Perdana everyday between 10am-3pm

"No mountain too steep, no ocean too deep" - Cao Cao

The obstacles hurdled between my path towards seeking the future are slowly removed one by one. The road to the ultimate prize seem to be more clearer day by day. The devil will not rest throwing in challenges, but nothing can thwart my ambitions!

A milestone, the 10th medal ~

No matter how much I have achieved, it is still not enough! My hunger for sporting success will never be satisfied. Winning is like a drug that I must keep myself occupied with over & over again! The Lord has already promised me a marvelous 2010. The 6 medals won in a row have proven of His promise been kept. Who can stop me in accomplishing my next victory besides the Almighty?

Okay before I get even more cocky & arrogant, just want to thank God for his blessings especially for granting me the strength to perform well in all the marathons I've participated so far in this particular year. Apart from that, I'm pursuing a course that will certify me as a Professional Personal Trainer which is something I also enjoy doing, fitness & exercise. Guess what else is in store for me;

A football camp!

Not your average kind of camp where I'll be just kicking a ball around, but it's more of a scheme where I can obtain a coaching license. At last after two years of waiting, the opportunity has now present itself for me to be a qualified football coach. This is a convincing revelation that I am the Lord's anointed. Patiently taking a backseat among society's lower ranks, my time has finally come!

27th March, destiny awaits!

And the answer is yes, Knowledgeable Mystery Shopping Outdated Warrior recommends that you should be jealous. Alright, that was a joke ~

No Man No!

2010-03-16T06:15:00.000-07:00

"Say yes, but only because you want to" - Carl Allen

Want to know how outdated am I about movies? I only watched this flick for the first time on Astro last Saturday!

And the answer is yes, I'm a guy who goes out for a movie only once in a blue moon. But that's okay, better to watch a good movie late than never. What does Knowledgeable Mystery Shopping Outdated Warrior (still doesn't sound right) like about 'Yes Man'? It's the moral of the story whereby once in awhile, it's okay to say no if you really don't want to. But sometimes in reality, the answer no is never acceptable to some.

My 9th bitch. God damn she's big!

After finishing a 10km marathon, do you think I have any strength left to stand up? Probably not. There is nothing more relaxing than to rest my worn out legs on a couch while eating some nachos infront of the TV at home especially on a lazy Sunday. But just when I thought I could really sit down & chill, I realized I've forgotten that it is a Sunday, which means there's church.

You see at the moment I am considered what would people call as a full-time athlete. As a full-time athlete, I'll be training 5 days a week while competition day will be on almost every Sunday morning. Yes ALMOST every week I would go for a 'war'. After competition, I gotta to rush back home to take a shower, dress up, have a quick meal & get ready for church.

"Say yes, but only because you have to" - Marc

Sad to say, but I really hate the church part. Because my leaders will get upset of me for coming late as well as sitting down at the cafeteria during praise & worship where normally I have to stand on my feet for more than half an hour when my exhausted legs couldn't even last for 5 minutes. This has been going on for months now. I myself don't have a bloody clue why I bothered cycling 2km from my house to church just to get lecturing.

Even when I try explaining my situation, in the end the answer yes is only expected from me whether I like or not. Not that I'm complaining though, but I want to people to understand that it's never easy to juggle sports & church at the same time. They always seem to collide!

How I wish athletes can also have the same privilege as aspiring entertainers & models to be 'excused' occasionally. I better buy some chewing gum for my ears because this Sunday I have another competition & the same routine is likely to repeat itself, again!

But still, I'm enduring all these crap for the sake of winning medals. So it's ok Marc, it's ok *pat myself on the back*

Perhaps

2010-03-09T08:09:00.000-08:00

I've been watching the the Biggest Loser Asia since from day one until the finale

King David

No longer known as the Gorilla Man but Chimpanzee!

First of all, I'm happy for David Gurnani that he won US$100,000 & a brand new Renault. Although he deserves it, I can't help but notice that he body looks kinda frail because if you look at his picture, he's more of an anorexic rather than being healthy!

If it's true that David is really being underweight, then I can safely conclude that the Biggest Loser has failed to reach it's objective besides earning money, which is to educate viewers & contestants on the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle as well as maintaining an optimal body weight rather than just losing weight for the sake of winning a prize. Is the show all about losing weight or achieving a healthy body?

But that's okay, I just hope that during next season they would revamp their format by clarifying all the flaws from the previous season. I still enjoy watching this show though because as a future PT myself, I could learn from the contestants PTs on how they motivate their clients as well as designing exercise programs that suit them.

David may be the Biggest Loser Asia, but he is only by title. There are also other big losers, if not the biggest whom had shed tremendous amount of weight. They may have not won valuable prices, but they definitely have won back their lives in terms of able to play games & sports again, walk confidently in public or even do simple tasks such as picking up an object from the floor.

Example like Garry Holden who is one the contestants. Even though he was kicked out earlier, he continued his journey of losing weight outside the competition on his own. When he came back as a guest on the Biggest Asia finale (can't find any pictures though damn), I was God smacked!

He's much slimmer than before & during the show he did something unusual, proposing to his wife on his knees infront of the audience! He couldn't do it when he was obese but now he can. If you ask me, to do something like that is priceless compared to a bank cheque & a luxurious car.

Ikram, your ordinary Joe. Or is he?

So David is not only a winner because everybody who participated in the competition have also won something which is their self-esteem. Another person who also lost weight but did not join the show is Ikram who used to weigh in at 139kg (that is like two people in one!) but he managed to shed a whopping 71kg & he did it all on his own, amazing!

His story really touch me because he also shared that there are alot of things he couldn't do when he was obese but now it is possible thanks to his new found body. He's also planning to get himself certified as a PT so that he can help others like him that have weight issues to accomplish their fitness goals for a better life.

My favourite, Carlo Miguel though only got 2nd place

Martha Lai, very 'panas' if she can lose more weight

Aaron Mokhtar, our only M'sian contestant

When they introduce Aaron during the finale, they first showed the M'sian flag on screen. For the first time I dunno why, but I actually felt somewhat proud when I saw the flag soaring high in the sky. Yeah I know for most of us when we think of M'sia, we would go like "Yerr, yuck!"

But because of people like Aaron & Ikram, they had shown me that anything is possible if you put your mind, heart & soul into it even in a place like here in M'sia where alot of our circumstances to succeed are very slim. Despite the corruption, injustice & yada yada, I felt that...maybe, just maybe, there is still hope left, if we really try to do something about it.

Funny isn't it? By just looking at the flag, a hint of pride stirred in my heart

Is it worth fighting for something impossible? The only way to find out, is to try ~

The Perfect Cure For Nostalgia

2010-03-05T05:38:00.000-08:00

14th March, my 9th medal awaits

Went to have supper with friends at Asia Cafe after CG. Coincidentally bumped into one of my ex football coaches during my time at BFC. He's still the same young & energetic Coach Subin I used to know & surprisingly when I met him he was wearing one of the team's newest jersey. He told me he just came back from a coaching clinic at FAM & encouraged me to train at 3k Complex again. It's would be great if I can experience first team football & feel young again.

I've decided. Once my university life starts in May, I'll be donning the samba boys shirt again ;)

No, it's not your typical factory outlet

I know what most of us are going through right now. Before this we whined & complained that we have so many wants but so little money to achieve it. After CNY with all the ang pows you've collected, you're now in a dilemma thinking what the hell are you gonna do with all your money correct or not? I have a suggestion, you can either go & burn them during Qing Ming or spend it at Brands Outlet!

After visiting Brands Outlet at Ikano Power Centre, Knowledgeable Mystery Shopping Warrior can say that the place there is affordable although not so trendy as it mainly caters people whom are looking for casual clothing. Nevertheless, the designs are simple yet funky (courtesy of Garage label);

Mr. Colours

High 5 bitch!

My personal favourite ~

As you can see, the messages on the tees are cool plus they do not give you that ah beng look which means you can comfortably wear them if you're planning to lepak at cultured places like Tropicana, Curve, Pavillion, etc without people commenting on your lalaness (sorry but we are living in a judgmental world).

Sunway Pyramid in my area is not counted though used to be very 'high class' in the past because that place is already infested with countless of Bangla & Indon foreigners. Therefore whatever you wanna wear at Sunway, nobody gives a shit except if you're chilling at M.O.S.

Sometimes what you wear can tell people alot about yourself. For example, this Sunday I'm going to Tarc for their Open Day. I can expect most of the guys especially the Chinese educated ones over there are gonna wear all those feng tau kind of clothes as if like they're going clubbing.

Once they see me, they can automatically tell that I'm a happy go lucky English speaking dude judging from the breakfast themed T-shirt that I'll be wearing. So before you leave the house, you might wanna consider what kind of clothes do you wanna wear to create different impressions on certain occasions.

Speaking of Open Day, I hope my trip to Tarc would be fruitful one. Normally the college only accepts students who have a diploma into their degree programs which means my STPM qualification could be a complication. Should they refuse to admit me, I would say they are stupid for doing so.

Dah lah the college are desperate to raise their standard of English & here I am from the suburbs, willingly being generous to help give competition to fellow students in English but you guys wanna reject me? Tarc, you better give me positive response this Sunday because OUM has already welcomed me with open arms to study with them.

My pet sis Jing Yi at X-Cut, Tesco Mutiara Damansara

C'mon Marc, when are you gonna grow up?