RacingThePlanet: Madagascar 2014 Blogs

03-Sep-2014 02:46:08 AM [(GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi]

YES. I’ve made it 40km before dark to campsite tonight. As I don’t quite get used to the campsite life, my tentmate started to be impatience of my noise and opening packages here and there. So sorry about that I’m quite slow on that. All slept by around 8pm and having snoring as companion. This morning, when I woke up, I felt like beaten by someone. All muscles aching, especially my shoulders. I spent some time doing stretching and lots of pigeon pose. Since my sole started to get bump, I feel better actually jogging slowly time to time. Victor and I jogged in most downwards. Today, we passed through two sacred lakes. It’s like been to an utopia. It’s so green up there from the mountain, seeing endless wilderness. We got smart this time when passing one river of the day. We took time to change to our slippers. When I got back to my hiking shoes, suddenly a snake passed by. It scared me off. Luckily, another male competitor pulled my stick and scared it away on time. The small snake looks beautiful but maybe it’s poison. We passed through what the local calls a highway. It’s like a fleet market with locals selling vegetables, children helping to monitor the station. All waved at us and saying “Ohiyo”. Guess we look like Japanese.

To Dad: You reminded me to bring larger towel as my shoulder pad incase the bags are too heavy. I didn’t bring it with me as I brought towel tablet. But gladly, I used the buff to make it a small cushion. It has been successful. I just dropped my bag twice today after 5 hours. Previously, I was dropping it on floor like 10 times. Haha.

To Mom: I have been missing many yummy food while I was wandering on the road, aiming to the finishing. Ie. Shanghainese dumpling, Yeung Chow Fried Rice, Shanghainese egg yolk, and of course Dad’s signature dishes – seafood. Even a bowl of rice I would be very much satisfied. I feel bored with my morning breakfast – milk powder after 4 days though they are nutritious. I was smelling neighbour’s instant noodles.

Jay and Agnes: Thanks for your great tips from you both experienced members. I reminded myself to keep smiling when I’m struggling. I need to pay attention not to focus too much on one leg. Otherwise, I’m afraid it’ll be overload. Cana always got back before us. He’s in good shape. Victor is unbelievable strong and with good pace. I was following his strategy ha.

Patrick an HR Team: Thanks for checking me out. I really miss you guys. I know it’s weird that I couldn’t update you all about what’s happening here. All good. I’ll make through it. Today, I kind of get used to the weight, routine and strategy. Indeed, it’s a big challenge. In midway, I feel watery eyes looking at the strong sun. Seeing children and locals running around with rooster, goats, cows with barefoot under the soft sand make it feels ‘Life is tough, yet simple as it is’.

For those who loves nature, this is the perfect course. I feel so tiny when soaking into the Savanah. Tomorrow, it’s the Long March 80km non stop with an overnight rest point. Cross my fingers not to get injured or more blisters.

Sunshine…light me up.