Registration for the 2013 Hongkong marathon starts in October 24, 2012. I penciled that on my todo list as I wanted to make sure I get my name on it since it usually takes just a couple of weeks to fill out. HK marathon is now the other half of my schedule of main events, the other one being Ironman Philippines in Cebu.
I’m in a renaissance on running, partly fueled by switching back to New Balance shoes, getting back to speed intervals and an energized effort to reduce weight.
I did the Ironman 70.3 in Cebu last August with plantar fasciitis bothering my right foot. I knew it was because of my old pair of K-Swiss shoes. Soon after the race, I got a pair New Balance 1260 and immediately felt the difference. A lot more cushioning and a roomier toe box. And no more plantar!
I’ve been more diligent in doing speed intervals and I have felt stronger in my long runs. Proof is the recent Adidas King if the Road last Sept 30 where I did the 16.8 K distance in a shade less than two hours, not quite fast but good enough by my standards.
My quest to reduce weight has been made more interesting with the discovery of an article describing the 5:2 diet, which is quite promising to me. The numbers refer to 5 days of normal eating and 2 days of fasting (which means 600 calorie intake for the day). The secret of this diet is its simplicity – an all or nothing approach that does away with calorie counting or agonizing at each meal. It’s really quite close to skipping meals. Quite coincidentally, at about the same time, a friend pointed out an Iphone app, My Fitness Pal, calorie counting diary, which is the perfect partner for the normal days when one is inclined to binge.
Next race is the New Balance Power Run in November, a 25K distance race. Perfect runup to the HK marathon next year. Here’s hoping to a healthy foot, a strong run, and the perfect racing weight.
Groundhog Dude 
Dear Groundhog,
Hi! You’ve mentioned the perfect running weight in your blog? Just wondering coz Im not a runner but how will a person know what should he/she weigh? Secondly, why is the HK marathon famous? Thanks!
Curious Cara
Posted by Cara | November 4, 2012, 10:15 pmHello Cara. The perfect weight is the lightest you can while maintaining your strength. Obviously this requires shedding off the excess pounds. There are certain measures like the BMI ratio, the fat content, and the waist-to-hip ratio that you can check to have a more quantifiable number.
As to why HK marathon is famous, it’s really because of the place itself, HK being a top tourist destination and a vibrant local population. Within Southeast Asia, it’s a popular marathon destination together with Singapore. It has also established itself with a track record of organization, with the backing of Standard Chartered.
Too bad I couldn’t get a slot for next year’s event, entries were sold out within one day!
Posted by groundhogdude | November 5, 2012, 7:59 amHello! Thanks for the info! So sorry about the HK marathon though 😦
Posted by cara | November 5, 2012, 10:33 pmIf its any consolation, the NY marathon did not push thru …:)
Posted by cara | November 5, 2012, 10:35 pmTry looking up the song “good morning” by mandisa. Good song !!!!
Posted by didi | February 2, 2013, 12:13 amDear Mr. Groundhog,
Ironman is coming this August 2013? Would it be possible to have a documentary of the said event (with pictures). This is for the sake of curios readers who could not be in Cebu to witness the said event. If I may suggest include personal stories on your blog.
Thank you and may it be a safe and fun activity for all the participants.
Posted by hannah | July 12, 2013, 12:58 amYup will sure do. Need to update stories on my blog. Thanks for dropping by and for the suggestion !
Posted by groundhogdude | July 13, 2013, 3:26 pmSure no problem, Mr. Groundhog! Will look forward to it.
Posted by hannah | July 30, 2013, 10:53 pm