0808's the number.

A day before the Aviva Singapore Ironman 70.3 race on 22nd March 2009, I found myself trying to keep calm and not be nervous. Race pack collection happened 2 days before the race. I'm not one to be superstiscious but it's always fun to see what race numbers I end up with each year. Also, when you're a little stressed before race, it's always nice to be put at ease by little things around us. At last year's race, my number was 0068. Sounds nice and lucky in the Chinese language. This year, it was even better. It was 0808. Even luckier. I knew however, that no amount of luck could help me finish the race. It's good to have some luck though. Its all based on months of preparation before race day. The rest, I leave to God. I can't control the weather, I can't control who crashes in front of me and I sure as well can't control anyone from sabotaging the race course with thumb tacks. I was very blessed that I didn't get a flat on the race course. Amen! But my heart goes out to all those who had flats. I admire those who had flats and walked the rest of the way, just to finish the race. Amazing. That's what I call dedication. The usual pre-race routine included us racking up our bikes at transition areas a day before the race. Second time round, i'm a little less lost and a little more confident setting up my stuff. This time, I had a little elf for a helper. Nate started to pass me things that he thought I needed. He even tried fitting himself in my transition box which I thought was hilarious.

nate trying to fit into my transition box valet service for jeanette's bike

I'm blessed to have friends like Lynn and Wung Yew who are always up for a laugh to ease the mood. They've been great training buddies and we reinforce each other in very positive ways. Thanks guys. Looking forward to bigger races with you (; We managed to survey the race area and grab a few happy snappies along the way. Pre-race is actually bigger than race day itself. And it always helps to have friends who are accountable around us. To push us.