tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89413759004525217992024-03-14T10:08:30.803-07:00Love the FoldOldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.comBlogger664125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-53465327141303744982022-04-03T18:30:00.004-07:002022-04-03T18:35:54.115-07:00Set free @ last!!! Malaysia-Spore border finally opens!
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Any seemingly good news on Apr Food's Day must be taken with a large pinch of salt so when I heard a few weeks ago that the Woodlands Crossing into JB was going to be opened on 1 Apr, I was skeptical. Very skeptical. After all, it has been shut due to CV19 lockdown and this has had a tremendouly negative effect on the lives of people on both sides of the Causeway.
"<p>"Singapore depend so much on workers who live and have families in Johor and these poor folks have no choice but to be stranded here because of work, not being able to see their family. Births of new babies, celebration of impt birthdays and even the passing away of love ones have been confined to telecommunications - which has been a most difficult time. My own sister in law's dear mom passed away and her ashes have been with the undertaker, unable to have a proper funeral. For us Singaporens, many go to Malaysia for our recreation - golf, shopping, long drives, savouring the many amazing eateries and during the closure, JB's economy literally came to a crash. The prices for some condos for example, have dived to as much as 50% from purchase price and many businesses especially those depending on Spore customers have gone bust, It was an economic pain not seen for decades.
"<p>"So when the locked gates of 2 years were finally opened few days ago, it was truly an emotional experience for many. At midnight on 1 Apr, over 20000 people rushed to go into JB and it was like water from a broken dam. One of these people was my cycling friend Richard Toh who very wisely went in not at midnight but at 4am. instead of being stuck in a jam, surprisingly the water had settled into a trickle. Richard who has a FB Group called <b>Cycling SG to Malaysia</b> posted his experience which answered many questions and allayed many fears about going into Malaysia especially with additional requirements.
"<p>"In a nutshell, going in require only 2 conditions for people/cyclist:
1. Evidence that you are vaccinated - Print out hard copies of your vaccination records so that it easier than the soft copies in your Apps or phone for easier reference.
2. Uploading of the Malaysian App - My Sejahtera. It is similar to Spore's Trace Together but it takes 5 working days to process, maybe more. Note, you do not need this when clearing Immigration, it is more for checking into shopping malls etc. My personal take is that this will be done away soon as more govts get used to CV19 as endemic rather than pandemic.
"<p>"Returning into Spore requires only the filling up of the SG Arrival Card before immigration. This is basically a Health Declaration and is easy and painfree. Link is here - https://www.ica.gov.sg/enter-depart/entry_requirements/sg-arrival-card
"<p>"I am planning to go in this week to meet my dear friends across the Causeway and so looking forward to it. Many cyclists like myself who have been caged in and doing too many round islands are finally set free. April Fool's Day of 2022 will be one many will remember for a very long time.
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"<p>"https://mothership.sg/2022/04/man-cycles-from-singapore-to-batu-pahat/?fbclid=IwAR2bQiZrxPCka8qWs5ILThf2arMwQFe_h3mefb4Bi4EDZ_n3HfqIWpxZX2k
"<p>"This is the post on FB by my buddy Richard Toh which is very comprehensive.
"<p>"Cycling into Malaysia
OK, so after watching many scaremongering videos about robberies in Johor Bahru (JB), I still could not resist cycling into Malaysia the moment the borders opened on April 01.
While I contemplated on riding across at the stroke of midnight, I waited till 4am before leaving my home, which was 10 minutes away from the causeway.
This post will be a consolidation of what I've experienced personally at the checkpoints at Woodlands, as well as JB, plus leveraging on the experience by others who have done so, such as Sinn Tail and Trekker Bike .
Please feel free to add on your experience and I'll edit my post for clarity with all your inputs, as well as add on a FAQ section to clear some of your doubts
Feel free to join our group Cycling SG to Malaysia for more information about cycling across the borders to Malaysia and beyond. We are a platform for cyclists to come together to organise rides across the causeway. There is safety in numbers.
PRE DEPARTURE
1. Download MySajehtera App
2. Go to notarise.gov.sg and download your notarised vaccination certificate
3. If you're making a day trip, go to safetravel.ica.gov.sg to fill in your SG ARRIVAL CARD. This applies to both citizens and foreigners.
4. You must also fill up the declaration form (from the Traveller tab) on the MySajehtera app.
CYCLING INTO JB
1. By land, You may ONLY enter through the Woodlands Checkpoint by bicycle.
2. Cycle on the road with the cars along Woodlands Crossing, until you see the motorcycle lane appearing on your left. You'll see a small gap between the barries and a signage with a blue arrow with a bicycle below it showing you where cyclists need to be. (Refer to photos)
3. Carry your bicycle over to the motorcycle lane
4. You may use only the MANUAL counters, which is the first counter along the whole row of counters.
5. Next you'll be on the causeway itself between SG and JB.. continue cycling until you reach the JB immigration checkpoint.
6. If your MySajehtera app does not show you as fully vaccinated, please bring a hard copy of your vaccination certificate as proof. They will accept it as well.
RETURN TO SINGAPORE
1. Please remember to complete your SG arrival card
2. Clearing through the JB customs is rather straightforward.. just follow the instructions on singages to use non-motor lanes.
3. Remember to fill up the SG ARRIVAL CARD in advance of your return to Singapore on safetravel.ica.gov.sg.
4. Clearing through the Singapore customs, before you reach the immigration counters, AETOS Enforcement officers will ask to see your SG ARRIVAL CARD before letting you proceed to the immigration counters. immigration officers will not ask to see the SG ARRIVAL CARD.
5. In the past, Cyclists will clear the inbound SG customs through the manual lanes closest to the point of entry. This is no longer the case. Cyclists are now redirected to Zone 4 of the car lanes which has been converted to clear cyclists through the immigration checkpoints. This is better. But it may be confusing for old timers.
FAQ
1. Do I need to Download MySajehtera app
Ans : Yes, as it allows you to do the next steps , such as submitting your vaccination certificate for verification. In addition, you will use the app to check-in to various places once you're in Malaysia. However, the app is not needed for you to clear through customs
2. I have submitted my vaccination certificate through MySajehtera for verification but have not received further updates. What should I do ?
Answer : you can still head to JB without a vaccination status update on your app. Simply print a hard copy of your vaccination certificate through notarise.gov.sg and bring it with you.
3. Do cyclists need a VEP or pay for toll when crossing into Malaysia ?
Answer : No!
4. Which lane do I use to cycle through the checkpoints on both sides?
Answer : ALWAYS use the motorcycle lane
5. What kind of bicycles should I use to cross the border ?
Answer : ANY KIND. If you want to do a fast and long ride, go with a road bike. If a slow leisurely ride is your thing, use a foldie. Mountain bikes certainly works well too
6. What do i put as address on the MySajehtera app ?
Answer : due to the limitation of the app, simply use your Singapore address, select Johor (or any other state) as your state.
7. What do I put as a local address in the traveller's declaration form if I'm making a day trip or I've not yet booked a hotel ?
Answer : I simply put the address of a shopping mall in JB and told the customs officer that I'm making a day trip.
8. I'm not a Singaporean. What sort of complications should I expect ?
Answer : if you're from an ASEAN country, AFAIK, you do not need a visa to enter Malaysia. All other requirements are the same i.e. have a valid passport, be able to prove your vaccination status.Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-62489436058203995382021-10-21T09:02:00.004-07:002021-10-21T09:05:15.109-07:00Celebrating a 59th birthday with a round island 115km around Spore
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Looking rather grubby after 10 hrs on the road!
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CV19 has meant that travel is off limits. Though it is just starting to open up, it is still early days. We have like many cyclists in Spore began to do round island rides and Singapore very honestly is a tiny island nation measuring 50km by 27km. Still, it is possible to do in excess of 200km if you choose your routes carefully.
For my birthday, we did 115km and it was fun to have a bunch of friends to cycle with. Yes, we much prefer doing it overseas in Taiwan or Thailand but for now, this has got to do.
Enjoy the video that our friend Angel made...
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe class="BLOG_video_class" allowfullscreen="" youtube-src-id="AfMi89MGVR4" width="600" height="498" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AfMi89MGVR4"></iframe></div>Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-45887073288290546322021-03-08T06:26:00.002-08:002021-03-13T23:29:37.615-08:00Singing and climbing in the rain...<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSmTcYcBTFO0VWmYDtd2L2JZRRxM8llIj8PB_N35QRN9LNkW-ja8QjgIE4ru-rM7OcdrtlE_QpQyfc8G-D0oC8_0QElj20oNo3y8B-9kd8YCfwOsmY0Lt1ad7tXRFz5o_vcQiqTtwn-I/s1600/Sesuai+Rain+1.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="600" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSmTcYcBTFO0VWmYDtd2L2JZRRxM8llIj8PB_N35QRN9LNkW-ja8QjgIE4ru-rM7OcdrtlE_QpQyfc8G-D0oC8_0QElj20oNo3y8B-9kd8YCfwOsmY0Lt1ad7tXRFz5o_vcQiqTtwn-I/s600/Sesuai+Rain+1.jpeg"/></a></div>
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Last Thu I could not do our usual climbs up Sesuai with the Owls as I just had my CV19 vaccination. There has been lots of concerns about the side effects but for me, it was just a sore arm and a bit of headache. So I did accompany the gang up the climb but did not join them and they did an impressive 13.
Today is 4 days after and I feel fighting fit. This evening at 6pm I went up to pay my dues. The clouds broke and there was a bit of a sprinkle but nothing too big to worry about. I actually enjoy riding in the rain and have organised many LTF rides in August specifically to ride in the rain in Thailand. The temperature dropped and so did the dreadful humidty and that made for a most pleasant climb, so much so that I did 12.
Coming down though, extra precaution must be exercised as the incline is steep and the road can get slippery. But with a bit of care, it was not an issue and I went home a bit drenched, but feeling top of the world!
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHC9anVIX4BbQ-2SjMG5qDRUAF28kd2af_jtMa78x8Q0bwyPlxnzjKtctwXV-aYYG0bUNadLkwxC1SiA5Uft00giI8pmShcNhY6jg2l63VlG61vllkdJrUKFoFbFwdtlcJTT6bRPWC6es/s1499/Sesuai+rain+3.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="600" data-original-height="1499" data-original-width="1059" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHC9anVIX4BbQ-2SjMG5qDRUAF28kd2af_jtMa78x8Q0bwyPlxnzjKtctwXV-aYYG0bUNadLkwxC1SiA5Uft00giI8pmShcNhY6jg2l63VlG61vllkdJrUKFoFbFwdtlcJTT6bRPWC6es/s600/Sesuai+rain+3.jpeg"/></a></div>
Jan 45
Feb 62
Mar 4 - 1 due to vaccination
Mar 8 - 12
Mar 11 -10 Total 23Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-57972767531438194252021-01-01T04:46:00.029-08:002021-02-25T23:43:08.267-08:00The Sesuai Owls - where bonding is sweet and pain is sour!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCLiva1dLsXdbnsT8rlp_boIvDvGN7AWQih0N1QkDo0vOoKxC2w0cn7o2o1GDkUkM1c2qwMlurapaLBpJ5CMwFbiwvm-uH7LHbkWeT8cLybuyu7Xog-OHSMYOnFStVsAqRzv6ktb3qIq4/s2500/Stefan.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2500" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCLiva1dLsXdbnsT8rlp_boIvDvGN7AWQih0N1QkDo0vOoKxC2w0cn7o2o1GDkUkM1c2qwMlurapaLBpJ5CMwFbiwvm-uH7LHbkWeT8cLybuyu7Xog-OHSMYOnFStVsAqRzv6ktb3qIq4/w640-h288/Stefan.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> Sesuai - Taken fm <a href="https://www.dannyst.com/grind/">Personal Project: Grind. </a> Great article n pics of the cycling hills in Spore.<div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX6_NbpLZPNBVHaB0smSugdfHRhZSADcZGnPJNEoZKF4mPbIovOZnyZmjlnNgrMPr21jS1Or1MI6zcXu75t8BZgBAfeyZ9ahGgJ3vZ40Xp3pIkq6meV_XBeUeTnJF53QDirwupYf9ymPs/s960/Sesuai+Cil.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="884" data-original-width="960" height="590" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX6_NbpLZPNBVHaB0smSugdfHRhZSADcZGnPJNEoZKF4mPbIovOZnyZmjlnNgrMPr21jS1Or1MI6zcXu75t8BZgBAfeyZ9ahGgJ3vZ40Xp3pIkq6meV_XBeUeTnJF53QDirwupYf9ymPs/w640-h590/Sesuai+Cil.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU673q04HMnFwijdhyphenhyphenUHtwCYIy6epa-XBtji1r64CkLa1x_aaxbd5B9-H3iEkGLz5T8qN53PAAH59wXqXeh8NlqZoEdPJ0jcEHQrJHqG7fAmJ-xYXwGTt3u2ce6P68SBY7DEmdodN2lSU/s1440/Sesuai+covid.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU673q04HMnFwijdhyphenhyphenUHtwCYIy6epa-XBtji1r64CkLa1x_aaxbd5B9-H3iEkGLz5T8qN53PAAH59wXqXeh8NlqZoEdPJ0jcEHQrJHqG7fAmJ-xYXwGTt3u2ce6P68SBY7DEmdodN2lSU/w640-h480/Sesuai+covid.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>Sesuai carparks were barricaded as parks were closed due to CV19 in Apr 2020! Note towel which is needed to mop up the bucket load of sweat!</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EDpOgk4cCsVg-OrFL3DDdX5b1QYn4tauYc_cGWwjliI3HOLOJPk0wIfTb9nZZBt_IQwuIsfmX2aZ-RcG-cNoS3-wQ4N17cWDOXFJCzkSAWg09HBgthJqar_D9sKaV8OFvxRtv96JmGk/s1440/Sesuai+BS+downhill.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EDpOgk4cCsVg-OrFL3DDdX5b1QYn4tauYc_cGWwjliI3HOLOJPk0wIfTb9nZZBt_IQwuIsfmX2aZ-RcG-cNoS3-wQ4N17cWDOXFJCzkSAWg09HBgthJqar_D9sKaV8OFvxRtv96JmGk/w640-h480/Sesuai+BS+downhill.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> The speedy descent! Hang on to your brakes. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-Cf1IpHR4kyau8pAQ-ZxYIWttsPUn104TkRFg0jIdVBVuETYfKIGuhRp9pdyb95ZRBgFeamXn-JgmSm64-W78JCQwgPOReniMlngZ6z2plGl6F_nAyiRhGDginPIOvmf7h-D6Wdg5uo/s960/Sesuai+chickens.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-Cf1IpHR4kyau8pAQ-ZxYIWttsPUn104TkRFg0jIdVBVuETYfKIGuhRp9pdyb95ZRBgFeamXn-JgmSm64-W78JCQwgPOReniMlngZ6z2plGl6F_nAyiRhGDginPIOvmf7h-D6Wdg5uo/w480-h640/Sesuai+chickens.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>These 2 roosters which we named Tom and Jerry hung around for a few weeks until one day, they disappeared! <p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="417" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jc_iFc_Zl5U" width="500" youtube-src-id="jc_iFc_Zl5U"></iframe></div><p> Video done by the talented Leon Tan!</p><p><br /></p><p>A very happy and blessed New Year! Welcome to a brand new chapter of time and what a challenging year 2020 has been for us all...</p><p>No thanks to CV19 restrictions implemented in the 2nd quarter of 2020, we were confined to staying at home and allowed to exercise only within a 2km radius of our homes. That immediately put a stop to our regular gym sessions and our usual cycling came to a grinding halt. I have no argument about the reason for this - to curb and stop infections. After 8 months, measures are working and Spore has entered Phase 3 and life has improved tremendously thanks to the cooperation and discipline of her people.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh6DU4kqIL5iHqAcSdGyKSwUoTAgFVh-n5HoLCIzgd8Lhbq6xSGjGqgNRgl8661jGjOmbbF5tSyuHkHOQpnuCiv_DSr_5Pp-QnV2jYoy_Nmsfg65IdkE3hyphenhyphenaMLBz05WQiFbXL9BwehoWo/s2048/Sesuai+CV19+stats.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh6DU4kqIL5iHqAcSdGyKSwUoTAgFVh-n5HoLCIzgd8Lhbq6xSGjGqgNRgl8661jGjOmbbF5tSyuHkHOQpnuCiv_DSr_5Pp-QnV2jYoy_Nmsfg65IdkE3hyphenhyphenaMLBz05WQiFbXL9BwehoWo/w400-h400/Sesuai+CV19+stats.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>In Apr, we were looking at the very limited opportunities to enjoy our cycling and exactly 1.7km away from my home is Bukit Batok Nature Reserve. There is a very steep and quiet road called Lorong Sesuai which is 400m up and a 12" incline. It's near the former Ford Factory along Upp Bukit Timah, a WW2 place of significance where the British signed the surrender papers to the Japanese Imperial Army in 1942. Up here at Sesuai also was the place a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bukit_Batok_Memorial">war shrine </a> built to commemorate the dead from both armies but that has since disappeared before the war ended. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDGm1O5m39dCZ1XZTDiEVB-llMVXBTeSWPK4R_F4925xpzgRLqoNFOKjF9juIjw7RQdo53GyVNMBZw5Fmr2EANnJJUBmU4DJ_WqQlDqLg_kK9W7G0DQk7bSF1KNMQH52DbYodSEAEvFZs/s803/sesuai+map.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDGm1O5m39dCZ1XZTDiEVB-llMVXBTeSWPK4R_F4925xpzgRLqoNFOKjF9juIjw7RQdo53GyVNMBZw5Fmr2EANnJJUBmU4DJ_WqQlDqLg_kK9W7G0DQk7bSF1KNMQH52DbYodSEAEvFZs/w359-h400/sesuai+map.jpg" width="359" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>We remember coming here to train for our Mae Hong Son mountain climbs in N Thailand a few years ago and if you ever want to kill people's interest in cycling, do bring them up this road. Hence, we were not too thrilled about the idea of getting our exercise up this hill of torture but given CV19 conditions, this proved unexpectedly ideal. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHNWh24sBT3157vzXA21rkVP2RNvBrcFZ5t0UtCNFC7Vth3BCSkLA_OamVGi2g-ZDqEM6MGw2dzS6hB29iPA9Axtk8E2Jrf_3sPywVx-7_2pqC7lCIbv2tPuuF1EwIEO0T86hzELbY_Q/s728/mae+hong+son+curves.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="485" data-original-width="728" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHNWh24sBT3157vzXA21rkVP2RNvBrcFZ5t0UtCNFC7Vth3BCSkLA_OamVGi2g-ZDqEM6MGw2dzS6hB29iPA9Axtk8E2Jrf_3sPywVx-7_2pqC7lCIbv2tPuuF1EwIEO0T86hzELbY_Q/w640-h426/mae+hong+son+curves.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Its near, its steep and you get the workout of your life. Not many people can climb up on a bicycle without pushing and we set a target of 5 and we are done. The intensity of the climb beats any gym equipment for your legs and heartbeat will average 150 or more.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-lS2S_n9zsAZZCzWbwrvvuMyOSjOQaCgs6oPy6cLvO3X8dzuPtpb1Wrm6j0f5pHCuTVal7g51QHRWbEpB3U6Hd0gUFh9jFIP2itVQmxwyervZaFVBa9ocqGJxuV7ySFfxcJ9POT54ZoM/s1599/YF+heart+rate.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1599" data-original-width="899" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-lS2S_n9zsAZZCzWbwrvvuMyOSjOQaCgs6oPy6cLvO3X8dzuPtpb1Wrm6j0f5pHCuTVal7g51QHRWbEpB3U6Hd0gUFh9jFIP2itVQmxwyervZaFVBa9ocqGJxuV7ySFfxcJ9POT54ZoM/w360-h640/YF+heart+rate.jpeg" width="360" /></a></div><br /><p>Also, you have to ensure that your bicycle has climbing ability and a granny gear is almost a must unless you are a very strong cyclist. Usual 8 speed bikes need not apply! Road bikes, despite its lightness, struggle to go up the hill unless the rider has above average fitness. The ideal gearing would be under 24" in my opinion. The lighter the better, the skinner the tire the better!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmXfSOQtI6ViAu1cwEsIZ3gbv5eBUQhFhs-_8XMwWcYy2frYVnj4xea98rD8-DYxSYdvRorp1MLeFB04Q76TArxZk_UT691A_eukE2fep6F3APmHC-PlgXB7_J1Vs7QoSdf42-QwtlQtU/s1338/granny.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1338" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmXfSOQtI6ViAu1cwEsIZ3gbv5eBUQhFhs-_8XMwWcYy2frYVnj4xea98rD8-DYxSYdvRorp1MLeFB04Q76TArxZk_UT691A_eukE2fep6F3APmHC-PlgXB7_J1Vs7QoSdf42-QwtlQtU/w640-h306/granny.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>So when we first started, it was sheer pain and torture. Our initial goal was 5 climbs and that itself felt like running a half marathon. As we got fitter, we started "enjoying" the pain in a strange way - somewhat like a sweet and sour experience. We were surprised that after several weeks, we got stronger and fitter. 10 was the new target! The sequence would be 3 climbs, then rest. Repeat. Then 2 climbs, rest. Repeat. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1xiVo82f00HHg65wnmbIAxTcYnqf2ExZlDrYcFAucpjxGgTf1N5SGvt37EDcSmxOzC_cN1p2Ze6oYMadMh0VCsx6bc5fSdxq-HofV1DExonqVXS76KRnj-JLXbe3wmD14cn3X9lwS4c/s1440/sesuai+cil+slow.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1003" data-original-width="1440" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1xiVo82f00HHg65wnmbIAxTcYnqf2ExZlDrYcFAucpjxGgTf1N5SGvt37EDcSmxOzC_cN1p2Ze6oYMadMh0VCsx6bc5fSdxq-HofV1DExonqVXS76KRnj-JLXbe3wmD14cn3X9lwS4c/w640-h446/sesuai+cil+slow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>We also started inviting our friends to join us. Veasna from Cambodia and his friend Suto from Nagaland live nearby as they are students at Trinity Theological College. On the first go, both of them rode 1/4 way and pushed all the way up even though they had MTBs. Veasna came because he wanted my help to vet his theological essays and to discuss topics but he didnt expect to pay such a painful price.</p><p>When restrictions lifted, more people from outside the neighbourhood could join us. We had 2 young physios, York Fuan and Angel who are very experienced cyclists. YF rides a Brompton everyday and toured Malaysia with it while Angel is a roadie and toured Europe solo. She just gotten a Flamingo 16" foldy. Being Physios, pain and muscle strength are their forte and they took this Thursday appointment with aplomb. I was shocked that YF can actually climb this on her 6 speed std geared Brompton! Then Wayne, the late Ying Chang's son started to come along on his roadie as well and he is a Mae Hong Son graduate who was missing the long climbs of N Thailand. So he too is a regular. Then we have Oreo, who is an avid MTB and a roadie who cycles every Thurs and decided to incorporate Sesuai as part of his 30+ km ride routine and to drop in for the fellowship. Recently, my neighbours Chris and Constance also joined us and a few other friends as well come every now and then though many come only, once!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJLGKa1QFAiQDxKRo4ETWuP79owG7mH18yke-jR86-RQ2tHdvTVo-HL2jabkuN7zXhdB1niU3M4v7nLe1Af7ceD18rz_Uj1p8woYlgNY_g3Tt1kuPBrCBz0248bq8NjYUBRYE5dhQTfc/s960/sesuai+owls.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJLGKa1QFAiQDxKRo4ETWuP79owG7mH18yke-jR86-RQ2tHdvTVo-HL2jabkuN7zXhdB1niU3M4v7nLe1Af7ceD18rz_Uj1p8woYlgNY_g3Tt1kuPBrCBz0248bq8NjYUBRYE5dhQTfc/w640-h400/sesuai+owls.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>These rides start at about 10pm and finish about 1130 or so and hence, the name Sesuai Owls and it has become a beautiful time of friendship and bonding. Most Thursdays, they would come to my home for a simple dinner, have some fellowship, study and discuss on life's issues and then attack the hill.</p><p>It has been 8 months since we started and now we are averaging 12 climbs each session. Celia and I have done just under 500 climbs in total since we started. Veasna who began and could hardly do one has now finished 20 and is our champion! 20 thus is our goal for 2021! Technique is a slow and steady approach and when you get the hang of it, it is possible to have pleasant conversations with a buddy as I found out.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3xWtnkCWu_Ti_LlGYo8gIcKO5vqaQyxKZJ7UIg5Ia7JyyM5jUek3HkDRP1aOFUMkxVDPnf1qHfXozhCdnIEymtoI3_6BN75A5AQw4ZhVRkNoy9GN-vU7Zqz6Z4J9JIkFyuTKztTgNrQ/s1273/Sesuai+Veasna.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1273" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3xWtnkCWu_Ti_LlGYo8gIcKO5vqaQyxKZJ7UIg5Ia7JyyM5jUek3HkDRP1aOFUMkxVDPnf1qHfXozhCdnIEymtoI3_6BN75A5AQw4ZhVRkNoy9GN-vU7Zqz6Z4J9JIkFyuTKztTgNrQ/w542-h640/Sesuai+Veasna.jpg" width="542" /></a></div><p>What goes up must come down and if you are like me, love high speeds, the steep incline rewards you with a steep decline. It is possible to hit 60km/h .You dont have much of a runway as at the end, the road turns sharply to the left and can get slippery. Hence, many go down cautiously and good brakes are very important. When it rains, we abort the ride due to safety issues. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1fbeMohSnVVvz1Gzh7P5ChedZ100x4Zs4NSEY4BLfWMNeoV6V2QWFuM6p_SZob62I-oPWkQw3WjXslMOz3XyqYsX-pDeMNxK-YOXEkWhHfgqGBLjx6ZudfCfS3WQhgxQVVHhxGVsRi0/s960/sesuai+speed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1fbeMohSnVVvz1Gzh7P5ChedZ100x4Zs4NSEY4BLfWMNeoV6V2QWFuM6p_SZob62I-oPWkQw3WjXslMOz3XyqYsX-pDeMNxK-YOXEkWhHfgqGBLjx6ZudfCfS3WQhgxQVVHhxGVsRi0/w480-h640/sesuai+speed.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p>For Christmas, I added an LKLM 318 Step-Thru to my fleet which I named the Green Hornet and this is a specially built bike that has meaty disk brakes and a 17" climbing gear. Though it weighs 15kg, it climbs beautifully with "gears" to spare and descends extremely confidently with its secure handling and powerful stopping power. For me at least, Sesuai climbs are even more of a joy now. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFonBJWJFbTxallCbG_bPW-8itzq6uuMCHEY17qOIvhEaQCAFPpwe4xfCjY5kSWINmCo6XfYvZcnBIzV8WFXHbii6idZznhOPpDN5pHul2Pv6UookRyczqi51oJcQJaJ4lCUSxHDIBxI/s1600/Green+Hornet+Lakeview.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFonBJWJFbTxallCbG_bPW-8itzq6uuMCHEY17qOIvhEaQCAFPpwe4xfCjY5kSWINmCo6XfYvZcnBIzV8WFXHbii6idZznhOPpDN5pHul2Pv6UookRyczqi51oJcQJaJ4lCUSxHDIBxI/w480-h640/Green+Hornet+Lakeview.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>So if you are keen for some torture-fest, try the Lor Sesuai challenge! And if you are a night bird, you may see fellow owls there on Thursdays, having fun in a painful but pleasurable way.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHv7dua7nlhKlABQfz-mRRTUzt3Th9-W-EJrU24us44BA5cuPhvyZ4sgCcMbALjYxfFyYWFWMbvOx3qzD1UwvZsffjftrFCC-gvJK6ZdURJHUa3lconcIhlaZPFDTktJRa32eewH6oLU/s960/Sesuai+owls+al+cil+n+friend.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHv7dua7nlhKlABQfz-mRRTUzt3Th9-W-EJrU24us44BA5cuPhvyZ4sgCcMbALjYxfFyYWFWMbvOx3qzD1UwvZsffjftrFCC-gvJK6ZdURJHUa3lconcIhlaZPFDTktJRa32eewH6oLU/s320/Sesuai+owls+al+cil+n+friend.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span face=""Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></div><div><span face=""Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-size: 16px;">I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? </span><span face=""Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-size: 16px;"> My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1,2</span></div><p>--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="371" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z83jA_omxN0" width="446" youtube-src-id="z83jA_omxN0"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sesuai climb done by a roadie - his inclination meter is a bit faulty towards the end. 12% is about right. Good idea of the climb in the day time. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Sesuai updates for 2021</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3 Jan - 12 Total 12</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">7 Jan - 5 Due to tyre blowout of YF and medical treatment. LM did her 1st climb up!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">8 Jan - 6 Total 23</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">14 Jan - 10 Total 33 Installed a 46T Chain Ring (fm 52) on LM P8. Magic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">28 Jan - 12 Total 45 - Distance done 300km</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Feb 1 - 10</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Feb 4 - 10 Total 20 - Mich achieved 5 climbs today! LM 4.5!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Feb 12 - 10 Total 30 Distance done 460km</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Feb 16 - 10 Total 40</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Feb 18 - 10 Total 50 Distance done 505km Mich did her first 10 climbs!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Feb 20 - 56.8km mini round island ride with YF, KC, CO, Cil n I. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Feb 25 - 12 Total 62 Green Hornet Total 607km</div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-88225336416311360482020-12-22T10:56:00.007-08:002021-01-09T06:05:49.063-08:00A custom built "Papachari" for Christmas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8Rwzb4DBW2aHKYf-CXs5j-eXo1e5rZT6hPlE5ZqC6bzlk6tbvt1QYt_GpxKVCYnlJV9-PiNzTYEZOMwA_Thjbghlh0fAg1I_7bowXd81yw5Zb2OwjoZYw9IcLIgqjT8O-2h8S91_408/s1077/ST+1+side+SK+yellow+background.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="790" data-original-width="1077" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8Rwzb4DBW2aHKYf-CXs5j-eXo1e5rZT6hPlE5ZqC6bzlk6tbvt1QYt_GpxKVCYnlJV9-PiNzTYEZOMwA_Thjbghlh0fAg1I_7bowXd81yw5Zb2OwjoZYw9IcLIgqjT8O-2h8S91_408/w640-h470/ST+1+side+SK+yellow+background.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLftYS2MQR2LCeagBorjp58YNGuBCM1hfB_lAlr_3KGbdUWbwnjqnq4EMi2GXiMKoreeAJyBjtdgGu-v1dVp-U7R7hmsagX-gcbw8MnSbzlcfsMM9ntZFMIt3lvQEsrlVUFHfOBW0wOqQ/s1600/ST+GC+Side.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLftYS2MQR2LCeagBorjp58YNGuBCM1hfB_lAlr_3KGbdUWbwnjqnq4EMi2GXiMKoreeAJyBjtdgGu-v1dVp-U7R7hmsagX-gcbw8MnSbzlcfsMM9ntZFMIt3lvQEsrlVUFHfOBW0wOqQ/w640-h480/ST+GC+Side.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-tgj4EDneVdL3VOJjeMCNpXpDVbsPWGiLuaRrha26eic3XdjWNY72Twqhn1I7aLAesxP52TyqeYSako3EuFMREXVUy8w-eDI8qlX6xgTwzwFKLsAhI5A5pTebrTRCPjLpfVXuMt7SYc/s2048/Al+n+ST.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1413" data-original-width="2048" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-tgj4EDneVdL3VOJjeMCNpXpDVbsPWGiLuaRrha26eic3XdjWNY72Twqhn1I7aLAesxP52TyqeYSako3EuFMREXVUy8w-eDI8qlX6xgTwzwFKLsAhI5A5pTebrTRCPjLpfVXuMt7SYc/w640-h442/Al+n+ST.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUELN9NIb8SRMTqgW6w44VahL4ggAlssi9tqLqJ_4KyqtLbCnGSIN71Da9yRup5tOuyFkBFmJFzw09EeOav9OCMXBhebH93U_JcxmhzG53B2w5mWjdOod0UaeWjtym7Rhm4vwMdlIKy2w/s1599/Railway+ST.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1599" data-original-width="1238" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUELN9NIb8SRMTqgW6w44VahL4ggAlssi9tqLqJ_4KyqtLbCnGSIN71Da9yRup5tOuyFkBFmJFzw09EeOav9OCMXBhebH93U_JcxmhzG53B2w5mWjdOod0UaeWjtym7Rhm4vwMdlIKy2w/w496-h640/Railway+ST.jpeg" width="496" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7JPLuxUC8v9k5wUTiq2bYKF5H6A_eV2UuWh8IbTLezl0GzvuWU_Zh4UiE_5x5ik3ybTobVFVgkdT7FQsn7-vNHWKIBaeusqEClF9xcBTyZBqYzkyoJ3iAmBkLDXmRtSV9cALIgMT7dE/s1999/KC+test+ride.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1364" data-original-width="1999" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7JPLuxUC8v9k5wUTiq2bYKF5H6A_eV2UuWh8IbTLezl0GzvuWU_Zh4UiE_5x5ik3ybTobVFVgkdT7FQsn7-vNHWKIBaeusqEClF9xcBTyZBqYzkyoJ3iAmBkLDXmRtSV9cALIgMT7dE/w640-h436/KC+test+ride.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUJQ9GQvPut1enMBySlRj3dF7iOckUGBGynZ_3pJtxBsjnAou3qTFgF6PL9oS-Kk63uUxpCao-Uv31f6dq1efiXIc5A80qOJU351ewddaGJf3dazq_mu9cQ_olhbZd6ZWBOfzcbxQ7TM/s1600/ST+railway+woodlands+sign.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1093" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUJQ9GQvPut1enMBySlRj3dF7iOckUGBGynZ_3pJtxBsjnAou3qTFgF6PL9oS-Kk63uUxpCao-Uv31f6dq1efiXIc5A80qOJU351ewddaGJf3dazq_mu9cQ_olhbZd6ZWBOfzcbxQ7TM/w438-h640/ST+railway+woodlands+sign.jpeg" width="438" /></a></div> Waiting for the borders to open when CV19 restrictions are lifted! When? When? When?<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuHH0_EIF5IIBD6AfZO38aCsrlPLvYiGcCIlr-OWUmO8CX24Wh8j0G3Em1Z3hvmBJD9ot3Gf7koez00CdiNWJ-r_UBJxVzx8bMquOKk3SJ8VmvRDqytTWNyzZOPex3xg3ZJJl8wxva650/s1600/Christmas+HB.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuHH0_EIF5IIBD6AfZO38aCsrlPLvYiGcCIlr-OWUmO8CX24Wh8j0G3Em1Z3hvmBJD9ot3Gf7koez00CdiNWJ-r_UBJxVzx8bMquOKk3SJ8VmvRDqytTWNyzZOPex3xg3ZJJl8wxva650/w640-h480/Christmas+HB.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEvyxb9PIJRMyqFA4yXg1VEMXDoxx32gDmN-HkidiRTZERQ_Ika-T3Qk8uADyZv3nOVvjPxy0QGnYUcrk635MtJx_IeBoexq730d-EYSePuwQqGuHuKytxz_VYnwe-Iolz-_asQ98V-Ak/s960/Mamachari.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEvyxb9PIJRMyqFA4yXg1VEMXDoxx32gDmN-HkidiRTZERQ_Ika-T3Qk8uADyZv3nOVvjPxy0QGnYUcrk635MtJx_IeBoexq730d-EYSePuwQqGuHuKytxz_VYnwe-Iolz-_asQ98V-Ak/w354-h472/Mamachari.jpg" width="354" /></a></div><p>It was 7 years ago that I brought back a beautiful Christmas present from my trip to Japan - a Bridgestone Jobno Mamachari bicycle! This was full of very innovative and thoughtful features that only the Japanese would think off such as auto steering lock, skirt guard (for the ladies who used this), 5 speed Nexus hub gear, dynamo lighting with auto on/off and more. It would be perfect for family use in Japan to run errands, pick up the groceries, send the kids to school as what a family work-horse should be. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr6_TD6yZKDpr4fsDks0Uwwov0DYEU_dfgPtbeYMkUq7MY1v2dDJG-wNDDQJAjcqkJHiCM0Ud0JGnHnnAiL6uYrapxgjPo0Ut48BcEE8KdrrG7Nfe-a5hnwlKGsOoikpkWHUQLUyL58ew/s960/Mamachari+side.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr6_TD6yZKDpr4fsDks0Uwwov0DYEU_dfgPtbeYMkUq7MY1v2dDJG-wNDDQJAjcqkJHiCM0Ud0JGnHnnAiL6uYrapxgjPo0Ut48BcEE8KdrrG7Nfe-a5hnwlKGsOoikpkWHUQLUyL58ew/w300-h400/Mamachari+side.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p>However, it was heavy and not exactly nimble as it was built to withstand daily abuse. It soon found itself rather neglected and gathering dust, in need of a new owner. I am very glad it is now in the good hands of my buddy George Kee. I swapped this in exchange for an air ticket to Chiang Mai! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNzKrZDPhWwaDRAfqDlG4o-rU0pZv4gZM2Bei1V-ga5fl09pm1lov4Q59fZkvowhJBaG7iQIZFNKf4exuqVyJufbXJRbxbevpuqvveCHcw7p1iM68JJ20AsHlrvIi01BnA3Ds8Y3no0w/s500/Papachari.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNzKrZDPhWwaDRAfqDlG4o-rU0pZv4gZM2Bei1V-ga5fl09pm1lov4Q59fZkvowhJBaG7iQIZFNKf4exuqVyJufbXJRbxbevpuqvveCHcw7p1iM68JJ20AsHlrvIi01BnA3Ds8Y3no0w/s320/Papachari.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Prior to buying this, I wanted a Papachari, a Bridgestone Wedge Rock - a male version not a unisex version of the family mule and I saw this in the Bridgestone Catalog but alas, when I checked, production had stopped. Hence, the opportunity to own a Papachari went into cold storage since 2013 until 2 months ago when over lunch, I learn that a Spore famed tourer came out with a most interesting frame - a mixte/step through design and manufactured in conjuction with LKLM, a Chinese bicycle builder. </p><p>Being trained in Marketing, I have learned not to pay too much attention to the hype and fluff but to focus on the core strengths of the product. Even then, my bias for a China made bicycle was very strong until I learn that this particular frame - the LKLM 318 Step Thru was designed by one of the best brains of touring bicycles - Mr SK Lah. He is a seasoned world traveller and knows exactly what works and what doesn't and not only is he respected and an expert (in my books), SK is a really nice, helpful and humble gentleman.</p><p>A quick visit to him in Oct saw SK explain in detail all the clever and innovative features he incorporated into the unique frame. The traditional bicycle diamond frame, which for decades, remain unchanged, needs to be challenged and improved as its major disadvantage is the top tube. Being a folding bicycle connoisseur and a young Senior, I appreciate bikes that are easy to jump on and get off and many a time, I have seen how the absence of the top tube has saved many cyclists from crashing badly. The challenge then is to come up with a design that is top tube free and yet rigid and strong, even strong enough for full laden touring. Sk reckons he has found the answer!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHk_h_MiojH7VLRli-_7lv17Ao4I381U-xKCcOOVowGnQho95d5Cb5ZMIDzcg0Q7bxIaF6IPXEkAx5smxfSvTu4RAjUfmG3maSjlOPesgdjLsHexaiH9PDWJEA2x6fV-cPzfvPZdtduY/s1275/SK+explains.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1275" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHk_h_MiojH7VLRli-_7lv17Ao4I381U-xKCcOOVowGnQho95d5Cb5ZMIDzcg0Q7bxIaF6IPXEkAx5smxfSvTu4RAjUfmG3maSjlOPesgdjLsHexaiH9PDWJEA2x6fV-cPzfvPZdtduY/w400-h283/SK+explains.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>I called upon the usual LTF friends that afternoon if they would like to hear about this new innovative frame and was pleasantly surprised quite a few of my best mates showed up - Papa, George, Gary, Siew Wan & Chris Wee. SK pointed out to us how he overcame the problem of flexing with an additional short tubing and this was tested satisfactorily by the LKLM engineers. Looking at how strong and sturdy this frame was designed, I was smitten and gladly made an order after consulting with Siew Yung, my Malaysian touring friend who actually tested the ST and was impressed! Papa too was poisoned so I had esteem company. SK also showed off a Titanium handlebar that also won 2 orders. <div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwrKWfsmK1hPT_flk-jLB7ZLcApwY4Hpj0YhvVjKgFN77v87DiEdoUS4Vrv2_mQMLEn0lRclWkqoTChJDtAXEvtbfqT8zy01k8HMcg27E69oG82UkYw0uEwRDKBCSlwamgg_9d4ZAnFo/s1600/SK+explains+2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwrKWfsmK1hPT_flk-jLB7ZLcApwY4Hpj0YhvVjKgFN77v87DiEdoUS4Vrv2_mQMLEn0lRclWkqoTChJDtAXEvtbfqT8zy01k8HMcg27E69oG82UkYw0uEwRDKBCSlwamgg_9d4ZAnFo/w400-h300/SK+explains+2.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>Why did I order this bike? I saw the potential of this LKLM 318 ST to not only meet my unfulfilled need for a Papachari (7 years of waiting) to do erranding and fun rides in Spore but also an opportunity to build a quality 650B touring/gravel bicycle for my wife so that she can ride with me on our China to Spore dream tour one day soon. I already have a Surly Disk Trucker which was built by Triple Cats Chiang Mai but no thanks to CV19, it sits dormant now in my garage in Perth. I reckon the LKLM would be the perfect touring partner to the Surly when our dream tour come true.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBhxp5IMm1QqDnO6jLYVB68Loz5cj52CfhlDOV4t49bPAVu-lcUkcGVim8XI46yvsdMNE42qjlfm0vm0qam1TIKRo0JwQ-ma5A-FP8Rws_VX6SN8-02WS0l1z_yMb8Gbu3BV5x0j8G4FA/s960/Surly+DT.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBhxp5IMm1QqDnO6jLYVB68Loz5cj52CfhlDOV4t49bPAVu-lcUkcGVim8XI46yvsdMNE42qjlfm0vm0qam1TIKRo0JwQ-ma5A-FP8Rws_VX6SN8-02WS0l1z_yMb8Gbu3BV5x0j8G4FA/w300-h400/Surly+DT.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div>It is always a great thrill to build a bike from scratch and together with SK, it was great fun. As tourers, climbing gears are a must and we gunned for a low range of under 18" with a 36/26t chain ring and a 11-42t cassette. The temptation to go sexy with XT presented itself but common sense prevailed and the reliable and robust Deore group set won. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKx3WVog0GOEOE9GZR-aMQR9SL2ZUcHDO8M0sSAB3BCPCdkRNSWuqb_7YL-2Rt4mPOQlKJsv5sSe0dq3SqFEyZC7_6UW5ILIB9RY9fDG6bByRDYwss3_j7WFYH_6Lwpzg2xxJttVf1uYc/s1600/ST+42G.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKx3WVog0GOEOE9GZR-aMQR9SL2ZUcHDO8M0sSAB3BCPCdkRNSWuqb_7YL-2Rt4mPOQlKJsv5sSe0dq3SqFEyZC7_6UW5ILIB9RY9fDG6bByRDYwss3_j7WFYH_6Lwpzg2xxJttVf1uYc/w300-h400/ST+42G.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div> Huge 42T to flatten them hills!<div><br /></div><div>If I were to use this bike just for Singapore commuting, I would consider a single chain ring with 10 speed and that would be more than sufficient esp with the new technology offered. But touring requires less strain on the chain so a double ring is the better choice, at least for my purposes.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdWP10ot_bUew3CneWKFXdwZAyoJBIJxLjzZozy34tPSMwkeHI5ZBFiBYZV8BZgOlIGQ4dW4J3B7wygqFc73xIdEqWnmKOzo4Vyic6b_MtfJD2wbTtYh-paPr80psNJBCLmoRbnaF8Ssc/s1338/Single+CR.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1338" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdWP10ot_bUew3CneWKFXdwZAyoJBIJxLjzZozy34tPSMwkeHI5ZBFiBYZV8BZgOlIGQ4dW4J3B7wygqFc73xIdEqWnmKOzo4Vyic6b_MtfJD2wbTtYh-paPr80psNJBCLmoRbnaF8Ssc/w400-h191/Single+CR.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div> Pic fm Green Basikal<br /><div><br /></div><div>Wheels were easy and I wanted 650B because they provided the best compromise between the strength of the 26" and the rolling ease of the 700 wheel. My Surly also runs on 650B and that makes for ease when we tour together. Brakes are160mm mechanical disk although I do prefer the feel of hydraulic. But once again, the chance of getting a leak during a long tour in a remote area tipped me for the more durable option. Levers are my fav Avid Speed Dial 7. Tire choice is also impt because it can make or break the performance of the bike. SK recommended the new highly acclaimed road/gravel <a href="https://off.road.cc/content/review/tyres/wtb-byway-650bx47mm-tyre-review-3367?fbclid=IwAR3aR1Y0ETre2w8labtkN0QFVBltSAwonc23m6KuT_i_AA7Oj2Ipg-_a2l8" target="_blank">WTB Byway 47 Gumwall tires</a> (click for review) that suited me to a tee and matches the Ranger Green paintwork so perfectly. The tire thread is bald in the centre for high performance road riding with off road edges. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyc0okr8vFgAtetK68U_Zb40pVjLIX7AB1Nexj6Hv6-qlR7pXBtg0SvwQzHJpiHgeNADvos8O5KAdWXbOYpfK3W2KXgMaTO6IVsXabg6ZyTQwjMGlUOABwgGYNyZFxZ1BZdZNXIoVrlkI/s1600/Byway.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1442" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyc0okr8vFgAtetK68U_Zb40pVjLIX7AB1Nexj6Hv6-qlR7pXBtg0SvwQzHJpiHgeNADvos8O5KAdWXbOYpfK3W2KXgMaTO6IVsXabg6ZyTQwjMGlUOABwgGYNyZFxZ1BZdZNXIoVrlkI/s320/Byway.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><div>Handlebar choice was difficult as there are so many choices. It so happened that SK had a sale on a very special Titanium one that instantly caught the eye of SW and Papa! It was truly a work of art and a sight to behold.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVP4ttDZAKOkTaL-khy-hYF_k9W6Bg2xS2nMd1diMxWVoG8A1_KpEL4UTRUtF7qOp4-ucJxRo9N21SbhlEliwYYN3snt_jmY7PasxLmIaqOl7SpSwehag4G7rzi5Cyc4D_QSB1cT_NxI/s1600/Titanium+handlebar.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVP4ttDZAKOkTaL-khy-hYF_k9W6Bg2xS2nMd1diMxWVoG8A1_KpEL4UTRUtF7qOp4-ucJxRo9N21SbhlEliwYYN3snt_jmY7PasxLmIaqOl7SpSwehag4G7rzi5Cyc4D_QSB1cT_NxI/w400-h200/Titanium+handlebar.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>I however did not think it would fit me and I personally wanted a riser style bar as I was after maximum comfort. It is always easy to follow the trend but what makes building that special bicycle so interesting is knowing what you want and to resist the trends. I was very fortunate that few weeks after placing my order, LKLM came out with a Jones Bar equivalent that I knew is the one for me! The boomerang shape complemented the bike beautifully and the riding position is something that I am very at home with. <div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Y3H5Y5-fsisWB-EPVS49aD3CuO8-XEefx4w43qmmXRu_0WIKwgySibWaIKL-IXS4Mivan1oT0bPOlz-C3ml3qp0p8MxaRMJKL6ItHw6nHwQJ9km72-H6gDMW7FRXLIuHDoGJ1WLT_J4/s1600/LKLM+Handlebar.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Y3H5Y5-fsisWB-EPVS49aD3CuO8-XEefx4w43qmmXRu_0WIKwgySibWaIKL-IXS4Mivan1oT0bPOlz-C3ml3qp0p8MxaRMJKL6ItHw6nHwQJ9km72-H6gDMW7FRXLIuHDoGJ1WLT_J4/w400-h300/LKLM+Handlebar.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinjOJRON0I2y8KpycS3Kz3d1LMdg-FU39aGlVJhs3l4MVn0iG9YDUPOxt_wpfdol3m7oWYVrtTUJMCIppcwZyaSXP72QIsi96_uPvPGNPMwL0uSYHFx5RhNB1mFmfP9DSmw_4wmxy-J_o/s1600/LKLM+Handlebar+2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinjOJRON0I2y8KpycS3Kz3d1LMdg-FU39aGlVJhs3l4MVn0iG9YDUPOxt_wpfdol3m7oWYVrtTUJMCIppcwZyaSXP72QIsi96_uPvPGNPMwL0uSYHFx5RhNB1mFmfP9DSmw_4wmxy-J_o/w300-h400/LKLM+Handlebar+2.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div>One of the hallmarks of a Mama/Papachari is the front basket - ever so practical and functional. Great for chucking stuff from shopping, takeaways from the food centres and more and more tourers are finding it very useful. I recalled my Thai touring friend Mallika Charoenwong whom I met at Hway 1095 on my Mae Hong Song trip a few years back spotting a ratten one on her rig. In it, she kept all her energy goodies, bananas, sweet potato etc and it is so simple and yet so practical. I knew too that Celia will love this and it really added to the character of the bike. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4e9VIWiWD0uFIbgIQEe18sIjiKSdgO_fJ_CYJY5eGeMK5a8gQbVtuXOyxhmgK45owTonmszGcD8k7MXtMk8wo1O7mpI4_ELf5j0XP-o4RMjOGIfWYEOxah4ymN4BYy8_ub3UK5Le2C4/s922/Mallika.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="611" data-original-width="922" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4e9VIWiWD0uFIbgIQEe18sIjiKSdgO_fJ_CYJY5eGeMK5a8gQbVtuXOyxhmgK45owTonmszGcD8k7MXtMk8wo1O7mpI4_ELf5j0XP-o4RMjOGIfWYEOxah4ymN4BYy8_ub3UK5Le2C4/w640-h424/Mallika.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> Pic borrowed fm Mallika - FB</div><div><br /><div>It seems that Ikea offered a perfect wire basket that augments the LKLM ST and many of SK's customers have fitted it on. For only $19.90, I reckon it is a real steal. It weighs less than 1kg and sized just nice!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwW8VsQzQqQSpT0o9ufLZa7JBKa9EyU50AjrTM_uZiECSj7gpSzRh6lnr9L1PCv4tBeESqPuBAw6e2bsOfqSprs35i3915zcC_rP2cWPgEDLtUHFaUi4tU7Y44FY0LXHgYxU0eGmaOZS0/s1338/GB+ST.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1338" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwW8VsQzQqQSpT0o9ufLZa7JBKa9EyU50AjrTM_uZiECSj7gpSzRh6lnr9L1PCv4tBeESqPuBAw6e2bsOfqSprs35i3915zcC_rP2cWPgEDLtUHFaUi4tU7Y44FY0LXHgYxU0eGmaOZS0/w640-h306/GB+ST.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div> Pic fm Green Bisikal</div><div><br /></div><div>My idea of a front rack that supported the basket must be one that can also hold my Ortlieb Gravel Pack Panniers. I have a Blackburn rack sitting in my cave for awhile and it was wonderful that it came in very handy and did the job well. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpLWeVQCaO-qKUPW9zMgMNvepRFHDy8edGCZJOqZay5yk8m119yRmHR0wKNgiJuMRMHPXqdTp8tI_RM8nKB-F2Jw-5en3bwQOHGVGLbD9ODpE0V_1YQht-zAfGqYctPGTIhZnocrTwl20/s1074/Front+rack.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="1074" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpLWeVQCaO-qKUPW9zMgMNvepRFHDy8edGCZJOqZay5yk8m119yRmHR0wKNgiJuMRMHPXqdTp8tI_RM8nKB-F2Jw-5en3bwQOHGVGLbD9ODpE0V_1YQht-zAfGqYctPGTIhZnocrTwl20/w640-h312/Front+rack.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>One thing I have learned that make or break the feel of a good bicycle are the touch points. SK recommended Selle Royal saddle which offered value for money. To be honest, I just love the unique brown color of it and it will do for our easy rides. For serious and longer rides, I still prefer my 12yo Brooks B17 while Celia swears by Selle Anatomica X which she uses on her Bike Friday Pocket Sport. I have place an order for a tan/brown Selle Anatomica reluctantly as it cost a pretty penny but some things in life are worth paying for esp marital bliss! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBGC5SIFBnbMEXFbgw86_a-V7BN-If2Lg2fSu6DnBaDAA_lAOokSP0XBkw8EVX399lXklujC-j9tsrBiC0PaN628UYXjMIo8DIGC_8-DaKWpiWlZRAGVVfR6xb-VCKFrhPrtIaJfQlxw/s1600/Selle+Royal.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBGC5SIFBnbMEXFbgw86_a-V7BN-If2Lg2fSu6DnBaDAA_lAOokSP0XBkw8EVX399lXklujC-j9tsrBiC0PaN628UYXjMIo8DIGC_8-DaKWpiWlZRAGVVfR6xb-VCKFrhPrtIaJfQlxw/w400-h300/Selle+Royal.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>As for handle bar grips, I was just happy with brandless brown ones but SK at the last minute surprised me with leather ones that had beautiful strips of brown and green. These Propalm grips just added to the classic look I was after and my joy was made full. Riding it, the feel was just right. I could not be happier. Opted for my fav pedals - MKS Japanese made removable ones for ease of packing and the added security when parked if needed. Harder to steal a pedal-less bike!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPAoTWsc_RlhEHC92sED5mYKGK1lRYrTYqTDLrt3Vs90TySwrXFN-VqU2Etg0EGIC4Rki91ny-lA0VUuLSmcqNJ7TsTibRjfbeT5mV99EK1aXrTyiUBjrlFoLi3bwkAiB6u-m-Kgo2j48/s1465/Grips.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1465" data-original-width="1326" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPAoTWsc_RlhEHC92sED5mYKGK1lRYrTYqTDLrt3Vs90TySwrXFN-VqU2Etg0EGIC4Rki91ny-lA0VUuLSmcqNJ7TsTibRjfbeT5mV99EK1aXrTyiUBjrlFoLi3bwkAiB6u-m-Kgo2j48/w363-h400/Grips.jpeg" width="363" /></a></div><br /><div>It is 3 days to Christmas and December in Singapore is wet wet wet. The need for fenders is a given but many choose not to fit them for it really spoils the look of the bicycle. Have you seen an expensive carbon road bike with fenders? Looks are important but try riding on a wet road with the constant spray for fast spinning wheels on your back and bottom. Is there a way to fit fenders that actually add aesthetic value to your bike? I thought hard and long about this one and decided on wooden fenders. The natural grain and colour of wood on a Ranger Green bicycle in my mind is so pleasing and soothing to the eye. Problem is - wooden fenders are very hard to source. Kudos to SK for entertaining my rather unusual request with aplomb and his resourcefulness is truly second to none. Few days later, success! He had like magic, got hold of the last available ones locally at Bamboo Bee!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlxfa2O-KyRfG10gK61ieVLe5ADdPACbukxV515CPJQ0H2wflcDP_8Tdc6_KXLnhgZOeFknq2ipt9MtFp5ga12pyCUQGNeiU0ua0Lm_bJiOXEMtxTu-cmhqnVfaNPoCL0P6YWqSkjHCiA/s2508/Bamboo+Bee.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2508" data-original-width="1254" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlxfa2O-KyRfG10gK61ieVLe5ADdPACbukxV515CPJQ0H2wflcDP_8Tdc6_KXLnhgZOeFknq2ipt9MtFp5ga12pyCUQGNeiU0ua0Lm_bJiOXEMtxTu-cmhqnVfaNPoCL0P6YWqSkjHCiA/w200-h400/Bamboo+Bee.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I have had Bamboo handlebar grips on my Brompton and they look fabulous and when I saw these beautiful Bamboo Bee fenders on my LKLM ST, my heart sang for joy! My artistic friend Siew Ling commented, "Those wooden fenders match the tires and very nice colour! I want to try your bike!" However, someone commented they look like Dim Sum steam baskets and I couldn't help laughing. You can't please everyone!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeKtODUUp74ojtEoc773GOeF9cCWOoSbylHeD4H2pK4N6tW-2kIohDL4YRJtmSU0OvHsQEupmD4INTOKEQcpuiCNFLsgYIL4oTVUeC9iDWEXClH1tsbAEJm-mDCmdL0Xw6sI9SGg4bUxg/s1600/Fenders.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1168" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeKtODUUp74ojtEoc773GOeF9cCWOoSbylHeD4H2pK4N6tW-2kIohDL4YRJtmSU0OvHsQEupmD4INTOKEQcpuiCNFLsgYIL4oTVUeC9iDWEXClH1tsbAEJm-mDCmdL0Xw6sI9SGg4bUxg/w468-h640/Fenders.jpeg" width="468" /></a></div><br /><div>I love to carry a flask filled with ice water when I ride and the basket made it possible to attach a very useful pouch I bought from Green Basikal that could fit the flask. To ensure a generous supply of water for the flask, I installed my 10 year old Minoura AB1600 cage that can hold a PET 1.5 litre bottle of water. I found out that it also fits a nice bottle of wine and what a way to tour in the future!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSemGMZWMoxlL0yLs-dc1Czh4QB5Ow0NEdBcdumvYvLpTWKtsUInvHZTbEjHKN3bmDxLLdKmJ2z8RFHhpGJ1mLSqdz7zqo_obzccHeh_0d3PWPinrk5lc8i30BGr1PpqWVRxDzm2Nhy8/s1600/Wine+on+ST.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSemGMZWMoxlL0yLs-dc1Czh4QB5Ow0NEdBcdumvYvLpTWKtsUInvHZTbEjHKN3bmDxLLdKmJ2z8RFHhpGJ1mLSqdz7zqo_obzccHeh_0d3PWPinrk5lc8i30BGr1PpqWVRxDzm2Nhy8/w640-h480/Wine+on+ST.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>There is no end to accessorising one's bicycle. Many cyclists in Singapore neglect bringing the life saving tools, extra tube, levers and pump when they ride and find its game over once something goes wrong. If you carry some basic tools and a tube, 95% of such problems can be solved. I was looking for a neat and tidy way to carry these things and SK recommended me Monkii Wedge made by <a href="http://www.freeparable.com/about/" target="_blank">DOM</a>, a very cool Taiwanese bicycle accessory manufacturer whose design language is "Back to Basic"... </div><div><br /></div><div>I was very impressed that everything I wanted to bring on a tour fitted in one small compact package. However, Im concern about the mounting position as it is under the frame and near the crank. It is not water proof but water-resistant and I can imagine how grimy and unsightly it will look after a day's ride on wet and muddy roads. I have since found a perfect space just between the basket and the frame to park it and that will do for now. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU_R2lnekHgSKi3vhtSe_INFmy0PNnOh-HhZFCGRY8y1ewkA4AaWOc-BnKUMm_AcK-fX8xalWIKM_1THzSmxt2ayNhLU0mvXa2NVfgn_xglKtJwjFSEkvgeu-lFmzeJJZ3rTrcuHzUk3c/s1373/Monki.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1103" data-original-width="1373" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU_R2lnekHgSKi3vhtSe_INFmy0PNnOh-HhZFCGRY8y1ewkA4AaWOc-BnKUMm_AcK-fX8xalWIKM_1THzSmxt2ayNhLU0mvXa2NVfgn_xglKtJwjFSEkvgeu-lFmzeJJZ3rTrcuHzUk3c/w400-h321/Monki.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7yh4iG1eoUJgb3gaCI8IPPdiXU55ztzbpVf8gFOoDt0jsqhW8b-7F1m3CY_xYOgDkd5F03XoS2Is-vlz8WdeXf8FdlH15tqWkfrl7PLG8Y8VWteIXiF8VoOg8GaBeIoI3REATPaFKz9U/s1440/LKLM+Toolbottle.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7yh4iG1eoUJgb3gaCI8IPPdiXU55ztzbpVf8gFOoDt0jsqhW8b-7F1m3CY_xYOgDkd5F03XoS2Is-vlz8WdeXf8FdlH15tqWkfrl7PLG8Y8VWteIXiF8VoOg8GaBeIoI3REATPaFKz9U/w400-h300/LKLM+Toolbottle.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Update - Jan 2021, got a waterpoof Tool Bottle fm Decathalon and Minoura cage - a gift fm C Wee. Perfect!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div>I have always resisted getting a stand and especially a centre stand because it is often heavy. But if this is to be a true blue Papachari, a stand is needed. SK's recommendation for one at Decathlon did the job and at $20, it was a no brainer.</div><div><br /></div><div>So after nearly 2 months since I placed the order and planned with SK every detail of the 318 Steppie, I took delivery of it this morning on the 22nd of Dec, 2020. Uncle KC was more excited than I about receiving this beautiful Christmas present and came earlier than I for the delivery. The final touch was to put special name decals given to me by Michie - and I was careful that my name is on the left of the bike while the wife's on the right. After all, I have been told that women are always RIGHT!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZGaGEDh2DPseI0N6IlqGgMu5q0QoNzPifSSPfyaF0gj3hP9D4xvQT-d4xr7E6KNB0WCsWHMg91E7yB4uQWdKUsb-UqZYEJeQbjlW5-1zLzIq36iX4v9lMxlEBAIvt8ogPN7WYyylSMLE/s1600/Celia+decal.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZGaGEDh2DPseI0N6IlqGgMu5q0QoNzPifSSPfyaF0gj3hP9D4xvQT-d4xr7E6KNB0WCsWHMg91E7yB4uQWdKUsb-UqZYEJeQbjlW5-1zLzIq36iX4v9lMxlEBAIvt8ogPN7WYyylSMLE/w640-h480/Celia+decal.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>KC was the first person to test ride it and came away grinning. We said a big thank you and goodbye to SK who was so patient and thorough in delivering the bike. It has been pure joy to deal with SK and to have him walk each step of the way to custom build this Green Steppie has been an experience I shall always remember. If you are reading this SK, I want to say a HUGE terima kasih! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvAOlO7WhZZT8p63lkPJizorjE31VeIfQ5t7DI47cUvBRa5MuhIFqBeVuJBBp_wqUZL8MTSC1I0X4vGN1r2WHO29o3RTPk9T1PgiRUwIQIM7m0JOvud_2f7ZF8E5PtIkwoG-ul76RoD1w/s1728/sk+n+al.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1296" data-original-width="1728" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvAOlO7WhZZT8p63lkPJizorjE31VeIfQ5t7DI47cUvBRa5MuhIFqBeVuJBBp_wqUZL8MTSC1I0X4vGN1r2WHO29o3RTPk9T1PgiRUwIQIM7m0JOvud_2f7ZF8E5PtIkwoG-ul76RoD1w/w400-h300/sk+n+al.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvWXWVoi-cx7dgQYskalkJ0Ao_rM0ZXp-igxI_QwIGYPae6cXtASkC_rbk_9QPcWVfl15SK7LnhBH33iibuAOcCwHXd7S2Fp21UihBW931dTNmzPm7kiCGBYFtEYGPvc3hrW0bZXbCzLM/s2048/AL+KC+LKLM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1031" data-original-width="2048" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvWXWVoi-cx7dgQYskalkJ0Ao_rM0ZXp-igxI_QwIGYPae6cXtASkC_rbk_9QPcWVfl15SK7LnhBH33iibuAOcCwHXd7S2Fp21UihBW931dTNmzPm7kiCGBYFtEYGPvc3hrW0bZXbCzLM/w640-h322/AL+KC+LKLM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Our next destination was to ride to Papa's clinic to show this new baby and went through some beautiful park connectors that we both have not explored. Papa took the bike for a spin and took a long time to return! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugjc9fewoKPq-_BzY1JYfZA_6id5jglz8PwRZFq99zIvMzLURsQVBe2zzGavinun4sWSgp7IxbSGhiq2bvj8UrGu_LeiVgPad9H_N5BUmdpEtAOvv-71kSzvC343qc2lA72b5KE1Scak/s1728/papa+test+ride.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1296" data-original-width="1728" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhugjc9fewoKPq-_BzY1JYfZA_6id5jglz8PwRZFq99zIvMzLURsQVBe2zzGavinun4sWSgp7IxbSGhiq2bvj8UrGu_LeiVgPad9H_N5BUmdpEtAOvv-71kSzvC343qc2lA72b5KE1Scak/w640-h480/papa+test+ride.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>On my way home, I tested the gravel capability of the Green Steppie and was very impressed at how steady and surefooted she handled the off road tracks. There is nothing more satisfying than knowing the sum of everything specially selected worked together beautifully with so much synergy. The 25km long way home was completed with ease and the super low gearing flatten any semblance of hills and I hit a max of 38.9 km/h without much effort. LKLM in Malay = Lagi kayuh lagi mau! The more you pedal, the more you want to do so!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF-n6gOIgVnG-_YslDROiVprgnQ1W-qoitR8fbWdCsLX5T1EM255QKq5Pi2J8eJoaJLbOT7BvgDAvZPCja1pIIJe9MdnkCqcjGZ176_9wne7fHQP2UfRNAh-eBYx_iRn5sYs2ipUmF33k/s1600/38kmh.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF-n6gOIgVnG-_YslDROiVprgnQ1W-qoitR8fbWdCsLX5T1EM255QKq5Pi2J8eJoaJLbOT7BvgDAvZPCja1pIIJe9MdnkCqcjGZ176_9wne7fHQP2UfRNAh-eBYx_iRn5sYs2ipUmF33k/w400-h300/38kmh.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I'm so grateful to SK for delivering this beautiful present on time for Christmas. Like a little boy who got to open his present before Christmas, I couldn't be happier. Christmas after all is about presents and I'm reminded about the best present given to us by our Heavenly Father 2000 years ago, the gift of Jesus Christ who came to bring lasting joy and peace to our world.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiziRQ8Nin-zqnVFYK7NZKztrtwzbfqtKFVfTlgEPH91M6AWs67VDj0Op0uE8jzDOfyGuNoy07gKI9NFxNSZNHyqULnevQkAQw0GCryCGP3z0MgpL99JKvg-0tTmArG-FW83FZzGmPb7pU/s700/Christmas+saying.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="700" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiziRQ8Nin-zqnVFYK7NZKztrtwzbfqtKFVfTlgEPH91M6AWs67VDj0Op0uE8jzDOfyGuNoy07gKI9NFxNSZNHyqULnevQkAQw0GCryCGP3z0MgpL99JKvg-0tTmArG-FW83FZzGmPb7pU/w640-h384/Christmas+saying.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Wishing each of you my dear readers, a very blessed and merry Christmas! Joy to the World the Lord has come. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheID17Yrin6Bf6YMC2kRJCotFu101EKyvC9qTTRnbOcFO-jfQV4p_pX4hINQKymmlHHDl9zqfsaFccnQLcbl0IhLlxMyAeR4YlmYlNgQdhOEtN8VAmVKhg3JSMtzcuPAIjm1URm4lvIDE/s1600/Christmas+Whole+Bike.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheID17Yrin6Bf6YMC2kRJCotFu101EKyvC9qTTRnbOcFO-jfQV4p_pX4hINQKymmlHHDl9zqfsaFccnQLcbl0IhLlxMyAeR4YlmYlNgQdhOEtN8VAmVKhg3JSMtzcuPAIjm1URm4lvIDE/w480-h640/Christmas+Whole+Bike.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-31616239411849926902020-10-18T09:51:00.012-07:002020-10-18T23:47:02.179-07:00Friends make all the difference esp @ 58!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1RdUxmLQXdko9axnt9XrAoOorl0BOP0zYjdh6O3jeFun6_mpK5o-52LnAn_ggLh9dS33bWO8VLpFpSK6sVYOj5xfI6qaRTlRRr3ZpLN3HwSuaQq6xZ0_MChJOvIgN1dp8-zC2oVS404/s960/58th+at+Christoph.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP1RdUxmLQXdko9axnt9XrAoOorl0BOP0zYjdh6O3jeFun6_mpK5o-52LnAn_ggLh9dS33bWO8VLpFpSK6sVYOj5xfI6qaRTlRRr3ZpLN3HwSuaQq6xZ0_MChJOvIgN1dp8-zC2oVS404/w484-h364/58th+at+Christoph.jpg" width="484" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JTLYPssCaW_Y4I9Lyfeu8yFz2ibcekqhtP_VKBjefH0pJ7O-EZvKHeWjF6Vb8lkDyi0G25PallbEfIBKi5hQvXPIvewfqVCJAZtnGBiPmPdTwxUlq9mo-N8Son0gsEtirYH00J2ZNog/s960/58th+pressie.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="960" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JTLYPssCaW_Y4I9Lyfeu8yFz2ibcekqhtP_VKBjefH0pJ7O-EZvKHeWjF6Vb8lkDyi0G25PallbEfIBKi5hQvXPIvewfqVCJAZtnGBiPmPdTwxUlq9mo-N8Son0gsEtirYH00J2ZNog/w484-h265/58th+pressie.jpg" width="484" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXaHYeUHTVQ7PeQKJf8M8j02Y-Dt9Xt6sKd5a1KJECa6mKE1pTgpOSU0WrCvh3DNhPiTau0xOoDY_LEai-4_2sMAzBMh_uvPPILBP4C_nItMyX5Eaulj5pqm4pihNcu0mjJUDgIH1ZoXU/s400/james-1-17-400x400.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXaHYeUHTVQ7PeQKJf8M8j02Y-Dt9Xt6sKd5a1KJECa6mKE1pTgpOSU0WrCvh3DNhPiTau0xOoDY_LEai-4_2sMAzBMh_uvPPILBP4C_nItMyX5Eaulj5pqm4pihNcu0mjJUDgIH1ZoXU/w471-h471/james-1-17-400x400.png" width="471" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>I have always enjoyed riding bicycles and touring but never could I imagine that the pursuit of this wonderful sport has brought me so many special friends. My 58th birthday was supposed to pass like others before, without much fanfare and rightly so as I am just an ordinary guy.</p><p>Little did I expect it to be celebrated so many times with 7 cakes so far and tonight, a surprise party organised by Dr Mike, Angkana, Christoph, Gary and Siew Wan plus my dear wife caught me really good. It was to be a quiet dinner date with the wife but last minute, she was called upon to consult on a medical need as our friend Angkana had just fractured her foot and needed her help on something - which was true.</p><p>As she was being attended to in her home, 3 other "patients" showed up and behold, a surprise Thai dinner party evolved. Not only did we enjoy amazing Thai food, the Lovethefold gang pooled together to get me a very high quality camping stove together with special pots - all ready for my next cycle camping tour!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5bBW2L6fOGCGPP5qqmuAE2u8eeJqzZgBIxpOxFDx8z1vvUEKAwbY0u5SuBBTzqNbe7oaf9iiVsfJ_D0j4jYbApOnguqsXzsPuKgHTuHblVky4jg7zR7Wknkem5ODNXW8IyZqoqKItLg/s960/58th+at+Angkana.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5bBW2L6fOGCGPP5qqmuAE2u8eeJqzZgBIxpOxFDx8z1vvUEKAwbY0u5SuBBTzqNbe7oaf9iiVsfJ_D0j4jYbApOnguqsXzsPuKgHTuHblVky4jg7zR7Wknkem5ODNXW8IyZqoqKItLg/s320/58th+at+Angkana.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Gary and Siew Wan brought a lovely Blackforest Cake and what really took the cake was a special birthday video put together by Angkana from all the LTF friends here in Spore and overseas plus my dear family!</p><p>I'm deeply touched by the blessing of good friends and truly, they make all the difference to a rich, happy and meaningful life. May I wish you the gift of friendship wherever you are. Value, cherish and enjoy your friends. </p><p>So grateful to our Heavenly Father who gives us every good gift!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="403" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4WmkCCE_TP4" width="485" youtube-src-id="4WmkCCE_TP4"></iframe></div><br /><p>------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</p><p>Other wonderful meet ups (CV19 approved) include:</p><p>1. With Chris Coleen Christoph Angkana n Aty Ruth on Monday...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdAa1WKjUA5fuavF8Chl-UzX9hF8A4M48qh7PmcAPd2oLRj808GDehvU4_puGIH7HnRC2wiuxctfeMAHeKrpqfOAV1TspzfUmEZpRMb5W3DfdPYncC1jtXIjcUWfZ0xfIl4zxjxKx47M/s1126/58+Ruth+Wees+Kolsnp.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1126" data-original-width="1087" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgdAa1WKjUA5fuavF8Chl-UzX9hF8A4M48qh7PmcAPd2oLRj808GDehvU4_puGIH7HnRC2wiuxctfeMAHeKrpqfOAV1TspzfUmEZpRMb5W3DfdPYncC1jtXIjcUWfZ0xfIl4zxjxKx47M/s320/58+Ruth+Wees+Kolsnp.jpeg" /></a></div><div><br /></div>2. Lor Sesuai Owls on Thu where I was so touched that York Fuan bought a bday cake in AMK and rode all the way 18km to my home in her Brompton for us to enjoy!<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4hQqHd6pnQsVjaYmngzeXtsMdh0cKV9yS6lMGCZHxpbRj0WBwpqCUy_2KyU_kQ6eWbFSlhXwCQcOPKFS_6cTtOScIgKwQVJPHECuag6m9i1CrDve2bvkTqZLHo7Pv3yl2XWLeU2NJLno/s1600/Owls+bday.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4hQqHd6pnQsVjaYmngzeXtsMdh0cKV9yS6lMGCZHxpbRj0WBwpqCUy_2KyU_kQ6eWbFSlhXwCQcOPKFS_6cTtOScIgKwQVJPHECuag6m9i1CrDve2bvkTqZLHo7Pv3yl2XWLeU2NJLno/s320/Owls+bday.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>3. Fri with Princess Hannah, celebrated with Oreo, Shuzhen and their super cute 19 month old baby Hannah at their home. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFbN9SSPVlYZP66mGNJvAeKlkS9dvB-D6w43FXcmL91m9VPRrScbIaCpFWOtEPIR7-bdtm_XWiKkFnMZB28Ew2-I_Hz4dsIofdY-14JRLK9QqPjUZCi_qlgh_Czu02cXtJLnTDtmacUH4/s1600/58+Hannah.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFbN9SSPVlYZP66mGNJvAeKlkS9dvB-D6w43FXcmL91m9VPRrScbIaCpFWOtEPIR7-bdtm_XWiKkFnMZB28Ew2-I_Hz4dsIofdY-14JRLK9QqPjUZCi_qlgh_Czu02cXtJLnTDtmacUH4/s320/58+Hannah.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>4. Sat lunch with GBC Care group. So sweet to enjoy a Chicken Rice lunch at Boon Tong Kee with my beloved friends fm church.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOA85qrXaieGplpR4x1FVaNmLBkqDXwsBTVAZIIJn5GmcefA-uyJUnN27QGsLaRLVvbcfSR3rzYe14iiQDKSdAKbI-4NGtJemoG2xIh8gwVbcq38ZJ5ayXt3g9xV9CPQOxFkudcBfhaU/s1024/58+CG+boys.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOA85qrXaieGplpR4x1FVaNmLBkqDXwsBTVAZIIJn5GmcefA-uyJUnN27QGsLaRLVvbcfSR3rzYe14iiQDKSdAKbI-4NGtJemoG2xIh8gwVbcq38ZJ5ayXt3g9xV9CPQOxFkudcBfhaU/s320/58+CG+boys.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8786EiP7EHCHkhnVyYuOPjc3LWzpmQwvUFRjL9nXpF4n8EJfjQtM7LbSZBOH-8y3wNxdobnhsLOfg9x0PKZLZw4czvdXsZc1Z2F5HOMbN9PcbEfWVHEZMo5M_5XZYMK_hnrNoH_gY47o/s1024/58+BTK.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8786EiP7EHCHkhnVyYuOPjc3LWzpmQwvUFRjL9nXpF4n8EJfjQtM7LbSZBOH-8y3wNxdobnhsLOfg9x0PKZLZw4czvdXsZc1Z2F5HOMbN9PcbEfWVHEZMo5M_5XZYMK_hnrNoH_gY47o/s320/58+BTK.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-3377807311238654672020-04-17T01:53:00.001-07:002020-04-17T07:52:24.867-07:00Legends Never Die - Pt 2. Making 2018 really count for YC!<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><b></b><b></b><i></i><i></i></span><span style="color: green; font-family: "times new roman";"></span><br /></span>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> YC Leading LTF in Chishang Apr 2018</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> <b><i> Beautiful pic taken by YC in Roelands, Australia on his morning walk.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b><i>Made this for YC in Perth</i>!</b></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span></i></b><i><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> Ban Jabo, N Thailand</span></b></i><br />
<i><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"Things
don’t always go the way we want it to be but we can always choose our attitude
towards them. Remember you always have a choice and you must make the choice
yourself – be it for better or for worse." Chen Ying Chen 2019</span></b></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">These beautiful words were said by Ying Chang last year as he encouraged and guided our friend Alice from Taiwan who was going through a personal challenge. It best captured YC's spirit and drive as he battled Lung Cancer Stage 4 bravely just as he would tackle any adventure or steep climbs on his bicycle. To keep spinning and making the best of every opportunity to savour life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">This YC did with great success and even joy from Jan 2018 to Mar 2020, a good 25.5 months. Not once did he complain about his difficult situation and YC really lived up to what he preached much to the admiration of all of us. YC has shown me what it means to live and to finish well, no matter what lies in front of us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The day of bad news came on 29 Jan 2018, 544pm while YC, Chris and I were having afternoon tea at Thomson Plaza. We do this quite often and that meet was one of our usual hang out times where we discuss the world of bicycles and plans for the next adventure trip. YC is not usually late but for this meet he was as he had to go for a spine XRay at Mt Alvernia Hospital. After our last Mae Hong Son trip in Dec 2017, YC had complained about a backpain that refused to go away and hence, went for an investigation. He was not worried and was his usual self until he received a call from his wife. He looked normal but when Doreen WatsApp me this message:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Urgent prayers needed, YC has terminal lung cancer. Spread to spine. Bone collapsed. Pray for him or you may not get to see him next. No more cycling!</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The news winded me and my mind was in shock. How can YC, the Legend, the epitome of health end up like this? The prognosis for someone with LC Stage 4 is a mere 7 months and we were all in disbelief as we struggled to make sense out of this. 48 years old is when life just begins to blossom. That night, our friends were informed and I prayed and seek solace from He who holds our lives in His good hands. Was there really a silver lining out of this? Can beauty really come out of ashes? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We got into action to give YC the best medical care possible and next morning we whisked him to SGH. With the help of our medical friends, a string of consults and tests were lined up quickly. Scan showed tumours in the brain that was needed to be removed asap. 9 Feb was set. Like all brain surgery though, there is a risk that the patient will not come out the same cognitively. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We harnessed all our friends to pray and a pre-surgery party was held for YC. Many came to see him too and his friends came from all walks of life. This lovely lady, Norliah wrote: "I want to see you cycling again!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Claudine, Chief of Asian Cycling Network, one of YC's very good friends wrote:<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><b>13 August 2016 was a Day of Thanksgiving. Even the date itself 13 and the month, 8 is auspicious! We had escaped the bombs in Hua Hin by just a day and a total of 11 that rocked Thailand! This day was most memorable as we scaled the mountain range, rode through miles of road works and never had any accommodation booked. We trusted you and we trusted GOD and everything turned out well! </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Tomorrow will be the same. Put your TRUST in HIM and all will be well!</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All our prayers were heard and YC came out of a very successful surgery. If that was not enough, his recovery was amazing and he took less than a week to walk out of the hospital on his own 2 feet. I was in Australia then and getting this message from Doreen was the best news ever!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Nobody expected YC to make it back to his family for the traditional CNY Eve Dinner on 2018 but he did. Miracles do happen and we must always believe in them because God is a miracle God. YC enjoyed a very special celebration but that was not over as we also had an LTF celebration for him. The smiles tell it all!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As it was CNY celebrations, one of important things we did was to gather at Evangel Church for a time of thanksgiving and prayer. Very grateful to Ps Kevin Graves for praying over YC and we all had a very meaningful time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Latest <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/exercise-as-part-of-cancer-treatment-2018061314035">research on cancer </a>see a very strong correlation between exercise and recovery and survivability. Under the guidance of Prof Celia, YC began to do long walks each morning of 6km each go. He recorded it on Strava and many of us were just blown away at his determination and grit. We could see his cycling and life attitude kicked in each day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of the trips that was planned by YC and I before the illness hit him was to put together an ultimate 2 prong Taiwan adventure ride in April 2018. He was to lead a more challenging group, Team 1, who was to head north from Kaoshuing and scale Wulin, descent east to Hualien. Team 2 was to be led by me, heading south to Kenting then head north east along the beautiful coast. We were to rendevous in Yilan and enjoy the famous Hot Springs Resort there. But of course with his condition, there was no way YC was going to make it but he insisted that we carried on. Claudine took the lead for Team 1 and did very well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Both teams had an amazing trip but in our hearts, there was something missing - YC. All the excitement we experienced felt incomplete. So it was an unexpected joy when we received news that YC was going to meet us at Chishang! When he finally showed up at the spic and span Railway Station at midnight, we were all ready to receive YC. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Knowing Chishang like a local, YC led us to the many attractions, riding the hotel's complimentary bicycle and it was just like the good ole days and we savoured every minute of that. We went to visit the Waterwheel, a café up in the hills, Brown Ave of course, a soya bean factory and enjoyed a local lunch. This was probably one of the happiest days in the history of LTF.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We took many opportunities to have get-togethers for YC whenever I was in Spore (still living in Perth then) and one such meet up was when we celebrated the arrival of my new child - a Dahon Dove-Plus which weighed only 6.9kg. It was always fun for the gang to eat, laugh and just enjoy each other's company. Em Griffin, a Prof at Wheaton College once defined friends as "people who enjoy wasting time with each other" and indeed, this is something we do best.</span><br />
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I<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">n June, Papa very kindly took time off from his busy clinic to organised a trip to Taiping, Malaysia. This is usually a sleepy hollow of a hamlet that not many people will bother to stop, proceeding on to vibrant Penang. However, Papa grew up in Taiping and knew every nook and cranny, hence it was to be a most delightful experience. The 4 of us did the 630km drive in one go and we had an amazing time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Taiping is known for the famous Lake Gardens and we enjoyed our morning and evening walks there, something that YC appreciated. This was an unintended result of tin mining activities 100 years ago during the British days and they decided to turn it into a beautiful lake. With Maxwell Hill overlooking it, the lakes are absolutely splendid. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Of course, the food in Taiping is incredible and Papa being our CFO, Chief Foodie Officer, was in his element. My fear in visiting Taiping with him is always an increased waistline! Among the many culinary delights offered, the Duck Egg Fried Noodles is my favourite and here is YC enjoying it! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Meanwhile back in Spore, there was always a ride or a makan organised for YC by his various friends. YC belonged to a MTB group as well and he was well enough to do short rides. One thing that was abundantly clear was that YC was very well liked and well loved by so many. He also managed to squeeze in a trip to Taipei in August. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In Sep, I was absolutely delighted when YC and a few wonderful friends decided to spend some time in Perth with me. YC had just gone to India to follow Doreen on a pilgrimage and almost immediately, joined us in Perth. The 2 weeks he lived in my home was very special and enjoyable. This was also a lovely time for our Perth friends to enjoy his company. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We organised a trip down south to Margaret River and enjoyed some cycle rides together there with Lance, YC nephew who lives in Perth. He, my nephew Nic, Wayne and another friend rode 170km in a day to meet us! It was great to meet up with Frank and family too. He and his wife Molly put up an amazing BBQ dinner for us!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Pic taken by YC</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was a very good father and son time for YC and Wayne as well and it was heartwarming to see how close they were. Often, YC will spoil Wayne in giving him the best choices of food and here we are enjoying the famous Fish and Chips in Mandurah, Australia.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Meanwhile in Oct back in Spore, we had a big preparation for a combined birthday party of my 56th and Alice who flew to Spore for this. YC very kindly put her up as well as Carolen from Perth in his home. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Carolen writes, "YC & Doreen always offered me hospitality whenever I stayed in Spore. He was a very generous, humble, caring person who always put others first. He would also be the first to offer help and support. A true friend who I miss very much!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Before Carolen arrived, YC and I<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> played tourist guide for Alice and we brought her to Artpartment where our friends Joeel and Esther run an amazing art school. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Part one of the celebrations were at Ben and Prue's lovely home and they put up a really fantastic meal of home made Lasagna and baked veggies. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We organised a little getaway to a Kelong, a fish farm in the Johor River where YC, and a few of us, with our guests spend a night on water. Poiseidon Oyster Bay Resort is really worth going and we enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. It was fun going up in Khee Jin's MPV. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The big celebration was held at my home and it was so good to see everyone come together, especially those from overseas. We had about 30 folks squeezed into my home and we would have failed social distancing big time for sure now in Apr 2020.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We noticed that Alice had a rather cumbersome folding bike which she uses on and off the trains so we gave her a cutesy Bickerton Scout. Its minute size and light weight make it perfect for her 1km daily commutes. That really made her day and she couldn't stop crying tears of joy for 20 mins. LTF means really loving the fold and YC does that so well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Nov was another exciting month for YC as he joined us for the LTF 10th Annv Adventure once again to N Thailand, Mae Hong Son. Wayne came along all prepared this time in his new road bike and it was wonderful that we could all do this again like last year. The MHS Loop truly is one of the world's best touring route and YC played the role of navigator and sometimes driver of our mothership. Gary, Siew Wan, Wayne, Heng and I truly enjoyed ourselves together with YC esp at this special place in the mountains called Ban Jabo.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />At the end of our MHS loop, I had to rush YC and Wayne to the airport as they wasted no time to make their way to Canadian Rockies in the middle of an icy winter. Papa and George had invited them over to join them for a winter holiday. Talk about being a jetsetter!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Looking at the wonderful year that went by, we are grateful that YC really enjoyed many meaningful moments of love, generosity and friendship. I am so grateful for everyone that has supported and helped made 2018 such a special one for YC. And the good news was that there was still 2019 to savour!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span>Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-78081388699924261092020-04-10T06:28:00.000-07:002020-04-10T06:36:42.925-07:00Legends never die! - Part 1<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "segoe ui" , "roboto" , , "ubuntu" , "cantarell" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "segoe ui" , "roboto" , , "ubuntu" , "cantarell" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "segoe ui" , "roboto" , , "ubuntu" , "cantarell" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: , "blinkmacsystemfont" , "segoe ui" , "roboto" , , "ubuntu" , "cantarell" , "helvetica neue" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">"Heroes get remembered, but legends never die!", ring the words of Babe Ruth, the famous American Baseball player who is perhaps a true legend in his field.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #001000; font-family: "segoe ui";">In our Lovethefold community, we have lost one great legend in our dear friend Ying Chang on Thursday, 1222pm on 12 March 2020 when he was called home to be with The Lord. Born in Taiwan, his family emigrated to Singapore when he was a young child. The youngest and only boy of a family of 6, Ying Chang grew up as a successful student, finally graduating from NUS in Engineering. Not only was he good in the Sciences, he excelled in the Arts too and played the French Horn and was a well loved and respected leader in the uni orchestra as well. Ying Chang enjoyed a successful career in HP, a top IT MNC where my youngest brother worked as well. It was not until he was 42 that I had the privilege to meet him and we became bicycle buddies and firm friends. We had both lived in the USA for a stint and both love quirky cars (for him, it was Citroen).</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "segoe ui";">The first time you meet someone is usually forgettable but with YC, it was unforgettable. In 2012, I was on a bicycle adventure ride in Taiwan where a big group of us were attempting to scale Wulin - a 3275m mountain and it was the end of a tiring first day at the hamlet of CingJing. At about 4pm when we were totally buggered at 711, recovering with our energy drinks and snacks, a lone rider on a Dahon Smooth Hound with only 2 chain rings and an orange Ortlieb pannier appeared effortlessly from the slope below us. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "segoe ui";">It could very well be a scene from a movie and this strong but silent cowboy dismounted from his steed and was greeted by our leader George Lim. We all just looked with mouth agape at how this seemed like a cycle in the park for him! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "segoe ui";">Introductions were made and we found out with shock that he had started in Taichung, some 55km away from our start point of Puli and then rode up the 25 km climb that killed nearly all of us. This quiet superhero cyclist soon charmed us with his humility, generosity and warmth. He had always wanted to tour and heard about us so he thought it was a good idea to join us and also offer his local expertise to us Taiwan newbies. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "segoe ui";">His first act of kindness to me was to pass me his lights when we had to descend through pitch dark tunnels on our 100km ride down to Hualien. Silly me did not bring lights and was struggling to see in the dark. YC said, "I think you need this more than me as I am familiar and you are not." I instantly knew that this guy was an angel sent by The Almighty to be my right hand man for many more LTF rides to come because not only was he an excellent and competent rider, YC was caring, considerate, generous and ever so helpful! Because YC was so patient and thoughtful of others, he became my de facto Sweeper in our rides where he would be the last man watching over the newer and slower ones. Warrant Officer George Lim paid tribute to him with these apt words - "Many people can ride fast but not many fast riders will ride slow and sweep, so as to look out for the well being of others!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "segoe ui";">My wife Celia once said to me that there are 3 men that she must have when she tours - me because I carry her stuff and fixes her bike, Dr Mike because he keeps her company and together they form a formidable medical (Physio and Dr) team for the group and finally YC, because with him we never get lost. Such was his skill in planning routes and navigating us with the trusty Garmin and well researched routes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "segoe ui";">He was all the information I needed on tap as we rode through most of Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Burma, Laos)and even Australia. All important details such as elevations, expected climbs and descends, YC got all of that covered and this was better than any GPS! If you look at many of our LTF tours recorded on this blog, you will see YC quietly doing his thing so well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "segoe ui";">One of the joys of knowing YC in the early days is being introduced to his family - who was such an important part of his life. Doreen his wife a Dr wanted an opportunity to volunteer overseas and when he asked if she could tag along with my church team, I said of course! We met at an ice cream café in Sixth Ave and this effervescent lady was the direct opposite of YC. She had been trying to join a mission team with very little success and when she met me, her first words were, "You are my dream come true!" and my reply was, "Thanks but not in front of your husband." YC looked at us, bemused.... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "segoe ui";">They have 2 boys - Wayne and Mark who they adore and they came along for many of our trips and numerous eating sessions. It was in Dec 2017 when the boys joined us for a Mae Hong Son N Thailand cycling adventure that Wayne discovered the sheer pleasure of riding a bicycle through torturous climbs and fast descends. Using his father's MTB and depriving YC of most of the 600km cycle, relegating him to driving the pick-up, Wayne really found his calling together with his cousin Lance. This was perhaps the most important point for YC - a family baton was taken up by the next generation and YC was so proud of this significant moment. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "segoe ui";">A month after that trip, in Jan 2018, Chris and I had our usual afternoon tea with YC in late Jan at Thomson Plaza. We meet quite often to just hang out, share stories and plan for our next adventure. YC was late as he had just finished an Xray appointment at Mt Alvernia Hospital as he had post-trip backache that just didn't want to go away. He wasn't too worried about it and said it was routine and all would be ok. But then I received an unexpected WA message from his wife Doreen. She had received the results of his Xray and informed - </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "segoe ui";">"YC has terminal lung cancer. Spread to the spine. Bone collapsed. Pray for him or you may not get to see him next. No more cycling..."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "segoe ui";">YC received the news with exceptional calm and with nerves of steel. If you were at the table, you would not have sense this devastating news at all. I was personally shell-shocked and in complete disbelief. How can this 48 yo almost super human cyclist, who don't smoke or drink, who lived a most healthy lifestyle get hit with such a crippling disease with no warning? Stage 4 Lung Cancer patients statistically live only 7 months! My head was spinning. A bomb had just exploded unexpectedly in my heart. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "segoe ui";">I could only imagine the pain his wife, his sons, his parents and extended family felt and all I could do was to go to a quiet corner when I got home - to grief and to pray. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "segoe ui";">What laid ahead for my dear friend YC? Was there a silver lining and reason for this? This is not how life should end, surely.</span><br />
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Video - Joeel & Esther Lee</div>
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<span style="color: #b01600;"><br /></span>Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-57976582890208208052020-03-07T19:25:00.000-08:002020-03-07T19:53:09.704-08:00LTF E-Adventures in Taiwan - On video!<br />
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It has been nearly a year since we scaled Wulin Peak in Taroko National Park in Taiwan on Giant E-Bikes and had an amazing time. 8 of us experienced what it meant to be assisted especially up the steep and long climbs as we made our way up 3275m. We just missed a deadly earthquake at the peak and by divine provision, got a ride down safely to Hualien through a narrow mountainous highway littered at some points with rocks that fell.<br />
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This is captured so beautifully on video by my buddies Gary and Siew Wan who painstakingly put these two videos together. Part 2 shows our ride from Hualien to Taitung, down the beautiful coast of Eastern Taiwan. Glorious costal views.<br />
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They say that a picture paints a thousand words and hence, a video would paint a million words. I hope you will enjoy these 2 videos and capture a bit of the great joy and thrill we shared. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">A bonus at the end of Video 2 is our review of our Giant E-bikes. Shot in just one take! (7:20 segment)</span><br />
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This trip would not be possible without my dearest buddy and friend Ying Chang, LTF Chief Navigator and Sweeper, who negotiated and communicated with Giant Taiwan so that 8 of us could ride on these fine electric steads. We want to dedicate these 2 videos to Ying Chang as he fights a health battle with so much courage and not one complain despite the intense challenges he faces. We know that our Heavenly Father walks closely with him as his Light and as his Living Water. All will be well!<br />
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Just a few days ago, here is YC with Gary and friends watching it before giving us his permission and blessing for it to go live for you to enjoy!<br />
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As we journey through life, wherever we may be, may I encourage you to drink of the Living Water and be richly blessed!</div>
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<br />Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-17223944313306220652019-05-27T07:57:00.000-07:002019-05-27T18:37:17.608-07:00LTF E-Adventure Day 4 - A Divine Extraction. Wulin to Hualien. 100km<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Guo Ge's very thoughtful gifts for us - Taiwanese cookies! Xie xie ni.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Like the narrative of Good Friday, our adventure today began with the worse news ever and ended with the best news one can hope for! Like the torture and crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the Cross on Maundy Thursday, our plans to descend Hualien to enjoy 70km of high speed descend through the spectacular Taroko National Park, from 3000m to sea level, literally got nailed due to the 6.1 earthquake yesterday. Highway 8 was closed to traffic due to landslides and falling rocks. The promise of it being open today brought cold comfort as I laid awake at 5 am with the sound of heavy rain pelting the windows and roof of my hotel room.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">How do I get the team down safely? Plan B, taking Highway 7 NE to Yilan 140km did not sound like a good option in this weather as the mountainous descends would be very slippery and dangerous. What other options, if any were available?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As I prayed and thought hard about it, I was prompted to consider Plan C - C for chartered transport. I immediately Googled transportation rental serves in Taiwan, taxis, buses, etc but to no avail. I remembered last year we had a wonderful van driver Brother Lim in Heng Chun who went over and above to help us find a lost rider. However, Heng Chun was 400+km away and even if he would be willing to drive that distance, who in the right mind would want to risk life and limb to drive 70km up through fresh earthquake zone when things were still unstable? One rock crashing down could badly damage a vehicle or could possibly bring it down the steep mountainside. The situation looked grim.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">At 6am, I contacted 3 friends from Singapore who had good contacts in Taiwan and perhaps it being too early, only one responded. My buddy Matt Chia knew a certain Guo Ge (Big Brother Guo). He immediately contacted GG and amazingly, GG agreed to take up this risky assignment. We couldn't believe this piece of good news and we knew God has somehow heard our prayers. Joy and celebration erupted at Camp LTF! But why would he do it? We found that out later...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The quote was for 2 vans - one for we 8 cyclists and the other for the 8 bicycles at 16000 NT in total. This was not cheap at S$700 but we were happy to pay any amount to get extracted out of this zone. On hindsight, it worked out to be only $93 per person for a 100km ride down to Hualien including our bicycle and it was worth every cent - less than $1 for 1km!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">With the wifi connection very bad and spotty, it was hard to contact GG but the persistence of Gary and Siew Wan paid off. They managed to receive the instructions from GG amid several calls that were cut-off and we were to wait for him at hotel lobby, eta about 1pm. The good news was that the landslides were being cleared and expected road opening was 12pm IF all went well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Meanwhile, policy stated we had to vacate our rooms at 10am and our request for late check-out was rejected due to it being peak season. The reception staff at Song Syue Lodge seemed stressed and inundated with all sorts of requests from guests like us from this unexpected emergency. Understandably, their customer service vaporized and fell short.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We whirled away time by going to Café 3158 some 300m away for coffee and wonderful that they served piping steamed meat buns which were delicious. The weather was wet, cold and foggy and we all could not imagine descending in such dreadful conditions. Visibility was poor and we were not the only ones who felt this way. Many of the roadies staying at our hotel had their trip cancelled and their motherships were all activated to bring them down safely.</span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As we waited
for Guo Ge to arrive, we hung around the lobby feeling a bit restless but
relieved. It was very thoughtful of Guo Ge to inform us of his progress as he
journeyed his way up the mountain and even sent photos. The weather had gotten
worse and it was pouring cats and dogs, with the temp hovering around 9c. The
crowded lobby was soon quiet as guests left one by one until we were the only
ones around. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Siew Wan finally
got a call at 1230pm to say our rescuers had arrived and we asked the reception
to open the front gates to allow the 2 vans in. For some reason, the grouchy recep
staff were not happy with this request and kept them waiting 10-15 mins outside.
The reason given was that there were too many vehicles in the compound and the
need for them to clear out first. Very understandable except there was only one
car picking up their stranded guests!</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">When our 2
vans finally pulled in, we were elated. First order of the day was to give Guo
Ge a huge welcome and a heartfelt thank you. He and his buddy drove 4 hours from
Hualien to rescue us and our gratitude meter overflowed. Gary, Siew Wan and KC
have met him before on a previous trip and it was like a reunion of sorts. Guo
Ge is in his late 50s and has a big physique. He spoke with a booming and
commanding voice. On first impression, one would think he is a feared Sergeant
Major in the army but Guo Ge is actually a retired journalist and a very kind,
generous and fatherly figure. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">He organised
us with military precision. Van #1 – to be loaded in with the bicycles and he
brought packing materials and straps, obviously very experienced in bicycle
handling. Guo Ge was at first wondering if we could use just one van but we reminded
him that these were not foldies, but 8 full size bicycles that can be cumbersome
at times. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Van #2 – was for us troops and
we climbed into his van obediently. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-uN5O1Ix6mh2ffD6J_MQ0_xQyXK5BlGvhGpCHFuFSfzVDQfRnOx23bi-WmRrcrfWgAW3o5NhfTuz-uaz2aMSQyHLbyrPl81MltAE6G-47AfPNYYplIrwI8H6xo4BMtkfl-HOEG931u8/s1600/LTFEA5+bikes+n+vans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-uN5O1Ix6mh2ffD6J_MQ0_xQyXK5BlGvhGpCHFuFSfzVDQfRnOx23bi-WmRrcrfWgAW3o5NhfTuz-uaz2aMSQyHLbyrPl81MltAE6G-47AfPNYYplIrwI8H6xo4BMtkfl-HOEG931u8/s640/LTFEA5+bikes+n+vans.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Just earlier
on at daybreak I had no idea how to get everyone down safely and was feeling slightly
anxious and heavy hearted. But here we were seated comfortably in Guo Ge’s spacious
van making out way down safely in the highest spirits. I’ve learned that when
faced with adversities of any sorts in life, going to God in prayer never
disappoints because our Heavenly Father loves us and is ever so faithful. The
good book in Ps 91:15 reminds us of God's wonderful promise when we call upon Him in the name of Jesus.</span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><i>He will call upon Me and I will answer him, I will be with him in trouble, I will rescue him and honour him. </i></span></span><br />
<i></i><br /></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A certain
Arthur Jackson said it so eloquently – Hard times call for prayer and praise to
the One who controls all things.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As we made
our way down the mountain, we were so glad we didn’t attempt to cycle as I don’t
think we could even last 10 mins in the cold and rain. Furthermore, the menancing
hairpins were also barely visible at times with the fog. Our jaws dropped as we
drove passed the freshly cleared landslide and rocks. This was when the magnitude
of this natural disaster sunk in.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If we were to cycle down and got hit by these
rocks, some as big as a car, we would surely be finished. We were informed that
it hailed just less than an hour after we left the lodge. Indeed, timing is
everything in life and for me, it is so assuring to know that God makes all
things beautiful in His time</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">.</span></span><span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">If the
weather outside the van was grim and gloomy, inside the van was sunshine and
blue skies as we joked, sang and laughed. For most part I sat in front between
Guo Ge and Alice, both Taiwanese, and had an intensive Chinese lesson where I
learned much not just about the language, but the history, culture and social
norms of Taiwan. It was a great privilege too to know Guo Ge better – his youth,
his career and his family. Appreciated Alice’s translation and glad she could
put her English to good use. Those few hours were indeed very special and truly
memorable.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">An hour into
the journey, Guo Ge pulled into a service station even though we did not need
its amenities. The reason was that they had delicious rice dumplings and Guo Ge
insisted we must try them. He repeated that this was his treat and truly, his warmth
and friendship to us really touched our hearts and stomachs. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We stopped
at Tian Xiang for a break and this is the Gateway into the Taroko National Park
if one is to enter from the East. The weather though wet and cloudy had
improved as we descended from 3000m. The 711 was raided for ice creams and
drinks and we continued our journey until we passed the famous Archway where
the Highway 8 ended and joined with the coastal highway.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As we
entered our destination, the city of Hualien, Guo Ge had lined up another
special treat for us - pre-ordered special Taiwanese pancakes with egg. There
was a long line of people at the store but we didn’t have to wait. This delicacy
required a certain way to eat it as there was a soft egg inside and we had to eat
and suck that up. We managed delightfully.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">When we finally
pulled into Forest B & B, a most beautiful English style resort, we felt
grateful and relieved to have arrived safely and comfortably thanks to Guo Ge
and his friend. They helped us unload our bicycles and our gear and enquired
about our dinner plans. We have heard that Guo Ge ran an upmarket Japanese
restaurant and the least we could do is to give him the business.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Excellent hospitality was once again offered –
he insisted on picking us up later after we rested and washed.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Forest B
& B proved very impressive. It was clean, spacious, colourful and could
very well be mistaken for an English manor with a modern twist. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">We all loved
our rooms which all had different themes and it has spacious green grounds. Our
host a young lady with a squeaky voice was very welcoming and settled us in
warmly.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">That night,
we really celebrated with a grand Japanese feast at Guo Ge's restaurant. His
wife came along to pick us up and ensured we were thoroughly spoiled. What
surprised us was after dinner, they came with gifts of special Taiwanese biscuits
for us to bring back to our families. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As we retired for the night, my thoughts turn to the promise of Good Friday when Jesus died willingly on the Cross for our sins so that we can be forgiven and enjoy a new relationship with our Creator. As his children, we can rest under the wings of his protection. The divine extraction we experienced is truly a great testimony of God's goodness that we will remember for the rest of our lives.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Update - I learned a few days later after this drama why Guo Ge decided to go risk his life and did this dangerous task. Apparently, the night we were stuck up there in Wulin, he had a dream. So when Matt Chia contacted him at 7am, it was something that was not unexpected. He knew this assignment was his to do. Co-incidence or God-incident?</span><br />
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Last night I had a dream from Mazu (Chinese Sea Goddess) and early this morning, I received an emergency call for help up in Hehuan Shan. A group of Sporean cyclist friends were supposed to cycle down but due to the earthquake and the rain, they needed urgent help. To be honest, making the trip up under such treacherous conditions is a frightening task. However as they are good friends from Singapore, I had to rescue them.</div>
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God's love for us is real and generous... I like to share this beautiful song in tribute to His great love for us on the Good Friday of 2019. May God bless Taiwan and her wonderful people. And may you be encouraged too by the song. It's in Chinese but the translation is below...<br />
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<span style="color: #111111; font-family: "arial";">有一天 Someday 有一天 你若覺得失去勇氣 Someday, if you feel that you loss the courage.有一天 你若真的想放棄 Someday, if you really want to give up.有一天 你若感覺沒人愛你 Someday, if you feel that nobody loves you. 有一天 好像走到谷底 Someday, if you feel very upset.那一天 你要振作你的心情 You must bestir yourself at that day.那一天 你要珍惜你自己 You must cherish yourself at that day.那一天 不要忘記有人愛你 You must not forget that there is still someone loves you at that day.那一天 不要輕易說放棄 You should not say to give up easily at that day. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~這個世界真有一位上帝 There is really a god in the world. 衪愛你 衪願意幫助你 He loves you and is willing to help you. 茫茫人海 雖然寂寞 Although you are lonely in the crowded world. 衪愛能溫暖一切冷漠 His love can turn the indifference to kindness. 這個世界真有一位上帝 There is really a god in the world.衪的雙手 渴望緊緊擁抱你 His both hands are eager to hold you tightly.漫漫長夜 陪你走過 He will accompany with you to pass through the lonely long night. 衪愛你 伴你一生之久 He loves you and will accompany with you forever.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-66679753931988595772019-05-23T01:11:00.001-07:002019-05-24T05:54:09.421-07:00LTF E-Adventure Day 3 - CJ to Wulin. Stairway to Heaven. 25 tough km.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">He's got the POWER! </span></div>
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If ever there is a stairway or a road to heaven, this 25km stretch from CJ to Wulin probably comes closest. It is a challenging climb from 1768m (Ailiga Resort) to 3275m to the peak and many cyclists come from all over the world to attempt this scenic route. This is the highest road in Taiwan and what makes the Hehuanshan Road across the Wulin Pass challenging is the ever unpredictable weather where it is said 70% of the time, it is wet, cold, foggy, windy or stormy.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/d5SIvsqoU4U/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d5SIvsqoU4U?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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Our good friend the renown tourer Mike Khor wrote about his encounter in 2014 in his blog, Wheelospher…<br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #111111; display: inline; float: none; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>It’s cold. Stepping out, it’s worse. The chill of the cold mountain wind is biting. But I have to hit the road. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #111111; display: inline; float: none; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">There’s no sun. Only cloudy overcast skies. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: #111111; display: inline; float: none; font-size: 16px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">On the road, visibility is limited to less than a hundred metres. The scenery is all but enveloped by heavy mist. I’m resigned to another cold, miserable, uninspiring ride; made worse going uphill. The only thing I’m looking forward to is the crossing of Wuling Pass at 3,275m.</span></span></i></span></span><b></b><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />
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Pic - Mike Khor Wheelosopher</div>
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Hence, you can imagine the joy and gratitude when we woke up to the most magnificent deep blue sky with the bright sun as a promise of a most glorious day ahead! At 17c, we were all smiles. Many may say such weather is sheer luck but for us who know He who made the Heavens and the Earth, and He who even the storms obey, we know better.<br />
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We were in no rush to leave and we all enjoyed an amazing breakfast in the highest spirits. I was beginning to appreciate the usual Taiwanese rice porridge taken with over a dozen dishes. The token toast with butter and jam was available too for the Westerners but I didn't bother. For people like me who suffer from attitude sickness, our resident Doc, Papa Mike prescribed some magic pill (not Viagra although that would work too) so that we would all enjoy a good climb as the altitude hits 3000m. We all dutifully followed his orders and enjoyed a pill popping ceremony before we started.<br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Siew Leng feeling "energised" as she began to pop Papa's magic pill!</span></span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
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Our strategy to the Wulin Pass was simple. First stop was to the highest 711 in Taiwan at 2050m,just 5km away. Then another 7km to Nantou Country Police Station to recharge our batteries, where hopefully we will be given permission to do so. Then, it is another 13km to the top. Easy peasy!</div>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span>As we were still dilly dallying around especially the youngest member of our team who needed a bit more sleep, Gary and Siew Wan decided to have an early start as they wanted to take it easy. A quick prayer of blessing and off they went, happy as a lark.<br />
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One thing that the good Doc failed to tell us was the drug's side effect - frequent toilet stops. No wonder and when we reached 711, barely 5km up, we were all bursting. Unfortunately, the one at 711 happened to be out of order! But this didn't stop some of the boys who snuck off to a quiet spot to do the deed. Many of us also stocked up on energy gel, chocolates, extra drinks etc to make sure we were properly fuelled as this is the last food point available. If you are doing this climb, you have been warned.<br />
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I told the girls that toilet heaven was available at the Police Station some 7-8km away and they wasted no time in zooming up those steep hills. Truth be told, I wondered how on earth we did it with regular bikes, cranking on granny gear which in many circumstances, is not any faster than pushing up. Here is a video I shot in 2012 to illustrate that...<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/lrq3FSOjSz4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lrq3FSOjSz4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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But with our Ebikes on Sport mode, the steepest gradients were flattened. All of a sudden, we developed bionic legs like the 6 Million Dollar Man TV series. This was easy to get used to and the question inevitably came - how are we going back to regular bikes after this? At first we were shocked to see our Ebike featuring only one chain ring but now we know better, the Yamaha motor at the crank made granny gear or whatever gear redundant. This system is a game changer esp for Wulin climbs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikROJ13KxxLSFt87IxKejHpYy_p-8h8zTv674o8GHLXAYU0YtxPJl4kW9DWyHJwvnmtdHghOEiOsam38FM5mh5bwPRmGNxm6P2CVX9YyLBVGlYPwqFZhC3QCEfOIvrmfnJ5h8UtK66rbs/s1600/LTFEA4+KC+climbing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikROJ13KxxLSFt87IxKejHpYy_p-8h8zTv674o8GHLXAYU0YtxPJl4kW9DWyHJwvnmtdHghOEiOsam38FM5mh5bwPRmGNxm6P2CVX9YyLBVGlYPwqFZhC3QCEfOIvrmfnJ5h8UtK66rbs/s400/LTFEA4+KC+climbing.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Cuifeng Police Station is unmistakable with its unique structure esp the turret. It was a nice 1-2km downhill to the station and it was great to be flying. Gary and SW had arrived before us and asked the kind policeman if they could recharge their batteries and more importantly, use the toilets.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia31qIaVsq36j7VyrP5OU04AQz706s4tFTzIzuV4Ekf3TZg6hxVSs233zHU1xY_NUITkU3k0H_kTL4Ein3329Vu1Z2yDjM2W3ZR6wDj-W8B_r1_d36w3mh0M9njJCXqaGv4nmSuMfeYNA/s1600/LTFEA4+Police+station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia31qIaVsq36j7VyrP5OU04AQz706s4tFTzIzuV4Ekf3TZg6hxVSs233zHU1xY_NUITkU3k0H_kTL4Ein3329Vu1Z2yDjM2W3ZR6wDj-W8B_r1_d36w3mh0M9njJCXqaGv4nmSuMfeYNA/s640/LTFEA4+Police+station.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">PC Chen who was warm, fatherly and kind, said of course we could come in and charge our batteries - all 8 of us and he cleared a space for us in his office to do that. Despite just 11-12 km, most of us had depleted more than 60-70% of our battery, so it was great to be able to charge them up!</span><br />
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As it was going to be a wait for 1 hr or so, he invited us to sit around the table and started to brew fresh Chinese tea for everyone. We pulled out our supplies and we enjoyed the warmest of conversations. He asked about Spore and we asked about his family and his work at this most beautiful part of the world. As expected, life as a Policeman here can be rather peaceful and quiet as nothing much happens here as it is so sparsely populated and the truth is, Taiwanese are generally very civil and nice people.<br />
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Looking at his dog, what a life he must be enjoying up here in this slice of solitude heaven! PC Chen advised us about the ever changing weather and told us to take the utmost care while cycling.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKmzEjHqFQD5JpXzYghxMT6GosIqa0Xu_pNd7YP5lukfMeoAsZg5qQU3LHNIm6Pfv7hA0-xNSmoB-QWaAkXP-7ZvLW-cbIsBR2T8oeBTHj5ZneFEiRqix8D7xl3xWjiJLvOMMJEJWLEQ/s1600/LTFEA4+sleep+dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKmzEjHqFQD5JpXzYghxMT6GosIqa0Xu_pNd7YP5lukfMeoAsZg5qQU3LHNIm6Pfv7hA0-xNSmoB-QWaAkXP-7ZvLW-cbIsBR2T8oeBTHj5ZneFEiRqix8D7xl3xWjiJLvOMMJEJWLEQ/s640/LTFEA4+sleep+dog.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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We have experienced so many incidents of kindness, consideration and help from the Taiwanese Police on previous tours and PC Chen's amazing assistance to us is no different. We felt really touched and it compelled us to write a Letter of Appreciation and Commendation to the Police HQ.<br />
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It was hard to leave PC Chen but we had to and the arrival of other guests into the Police Station signalled that. 13 amazing km laid ahead of us. As we climbed higher towards the peak, the scenery became even more magnificent. We took our time to the top and stopped numerous times to just soak in what was before us!<br />
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There are 2 must stops as we near the top. The first one is the Taroko National Park huge signage which is about 1.5km to the peak. There is a carpark here and many cycling female models in tight lycra would take a van up to here and then cycle the rest of the way up with a camera man shooting away. Now you know their secret at how they manage to look so good despite climbing the gruelling Wulin pass.</div>
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Team LTF gathered here for the memorial shot, all of us except for Frank. He had scooted off to the blue yonder and was nowhere in sight. As there were quite a few tourists before us, we had to wait our turn but we were in no hurry as it was barely 2pm despite leaving at 10-sih. On normal bikes, we left at 8am and made it here at nearly 5pm!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihqC-IlU8QwZehGc8XPkbTnhn7XahkMddLiJ9dVoNGQJpFOAoGH9CLnBj5dXQ0uCLPnNPfC3CT9XzEt6JPPiTnyFinMaJAb-cWrjt6Ewfd74uOzcjWr5M6Hpf2ONK18CFiRPW1HMOuGkA/s1600/LTFEA4+Grp+Pic+Taroko.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihqC-IlU8QwZehGc8XPkbTnhn7XahkMddLiJ9dVoNGQJpFOAoGH9CLnBj5dXQ0uCLPnNPfC3CT9XzEt6JPPiTnyFinMaJAb-cWrjt6Ewfd74uOzcjWr5M6Hpf2ONK18CFiRPW1HMOuGkA/s640/LTFEA4+Grp+Pic+Taroko.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The last km or so to the Wulin Pass is beautiful as the scenery behind us was awesome. At this stage, my battery was on its last bar, 10% remaining and it is frightful at how much power was consumed to bring us up here.<br />
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Frank was there waiting for us at the 2nd must-stop, the Wulin Pass Lookout. We were all so thrilled to make it. Yes, we had E-assistance but it still took effort to make it up here. Siew Leng was so moved that she teared and she didn't know why. Perhaps it was just the majesty of the surrounding landscape or that our plans all worked out even better than we expected or that she felt the presence of God and his love and protection.<br />
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It was not easy to make our way up as there were hordes of tourists before us but a bit of patience did the trick. We had heaps of time as our check in at Songsyue Lodge was not until 3pm, one hour from then. Up there, I presented our very special LTF E-Adventure Decals specially designed by Alice to each of our team on the successful mission of making it to the top in one piece.</div>
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It is good to know that behind the famous sign is the same signage so no need to queue if you are gong there at the Pass. </div>
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Our last act at the Wulin Pass was to add to the countless of decals from bike clubs and people from all over the world who have made it here and left their mark on a pillar box. This is LTF's second attempt as last year, our team led by Claudine of Asia Cycling Network did it on regular bicycles.</div>
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After the peak, it was downhill all the way and just about 1.5km was the turnoff. Left to our Lodge and right to descend on Highway 8. At this corner, there is a public toilet and a café. Many of us were starving and the only place to eat was at this Café 3168. They served only coffee and a dismal few snacks. But as the saying goes, beggars cannot be choosers. </div>
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Songsyue Lodge is the only place to stay up here and we were grateful that although it is beginning to age, we had a warm bed to stay as that night, temp was going to fall to 5c. Our rooms had wonderful views and was comfortable enough. Dinner and breakfast was part of the package.<br />
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Some of us went to catch a shower and a snooze while 5 of us gathered at 430pm for a short hike to see the beautiful flowers on the hills at he side of our hotel. Many of the guests are avid hikers and indeed, the scenic artistry of the Hehuan Region is well known.<br />
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Climbing those steep hills left me gasping as the air at this altitude was thin. But the walk was cool and invigorating and we had fun taking too many photos and admiring the beautiful flowers.<br />
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Upon returning to the reception, I learnt that Highway 8 to Hualien has been closed due to 6.1 earthquake that hit the area about 2pm, just 3 hours ago. Landslides had blocked off access and it was very dangerous as the area was still unstable. My first reaction was of shock and surprise. We never anticipated this and to think that when that happened, we were on the "right" side of the mountain. We heard nothing nor felt nothing but was merrily making our way up. The thought that we could have been struck by falling rocks sent a shiver up my spine.<br />
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The earthquake occurred near Hualien and rattled the city. 2 hikers were injured from falling rocks and sad that one passed away later. For us, it meant that Highway 8 was closed and there was no way for us to get to Hualien except via the 140km NE way to Yilan.<br />
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I broke the grim news to the team at dinner and everyone ate with a heavy heart. We were glad we were all safe for now but how are we to descend to Hualien? Even if the road was opened, would we want to risk going down especially if the terrain was still unstable. With such news, I don't even remember much about the dinner even though we were hungry.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Pic fm local Taiwan newspaper</span></div>
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Staying another night was also not an option as the hotel was fully booked. A quick consult with Ying Chang revealed that we could try going down via Highway 7, north east direction to Yilan but this was a long 150km ride and another 100 plus km train ride if we can make the train.</div>
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Adding to the woe was that weather forecast for tomorrow's descend was thunderstorms, hail, fog and 5c cold morning. To bring new cyclists down steep declines in bad weather did not sound like a smart thing to do. </div>
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In times like this, we have no choice but to turn to our Heavenly Father who controls all things including the weather and who loves us deeply. One of our team later wrote to me, "Are you saying if we face problems just like storms, God will help us?" </div>
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Sleep did not come easy for me this Good Friday eve as I tossed and turned, wondering and praying how to get the Team safely down. We needed a miracle and we asked all our family, friends and church to keep us in prayer. Strangely, I finally fell asleep with a great peace in my heart.</div>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-47934976722464085532019-05-21T08:41:00.001-07:002019-05-21T22:23:34.758-07:00LTF E-Adventure Day 2. The Climb starts. SML to CJ, 70km<br />
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Siew Leng beginning the climb in complete ease and ultra cool style!</div>
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Goodbye unearthly starts! The wonderful advantage of having an Ebike is the luxury of starting a tour later. KC woke up at 6am for sunrise photos while we rose 8-ish to a cool 18c. Our spirits soared when we saw the blue-est of sky - a nice contrast to yesterday's dreadful weather, another blessing to give thanks for.<br />
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We took our time to enjoy a lovely Taiwanese breakkie put out by our hotel and eating just by the lake was quite special. There were other guests as well and these delightful Seniors were on a local church outing. Total distance to Cingjing was just about 70km, first 20km largely downhill to Puli, then a gradual climb to CJ. Doing this on a regular bicycle would be a challenge but no, not us! We were not daunted as we had "assistance".<br />
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We left at about 10am and made our way to the huge Giant Bikeshop on the other side of the lake first. <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">The 10km ride to Giant was most scenic as it skirted around beautiful SML.</span> Frank's Ebike was having some issues with the rear wheel, mine had a loose headset and others had niggles that needed to be sorted. After all, we were going to be climbing up the very challenging Wulin and then descending at high speeds for 100km into Hualien. Better to make sure our bikes were tip-top.<br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">The bike mechanics of Giant must be commended as they were so friendly and helpful to us and treated our Ebikes like gold. While waiting for about an hour or so, we had fun clowning around as always!</span><br />
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Our stomachs were rumbling when we finally could leave SML at noon but Puli was a mere 20km away. The downhill did not disappoint as we flew at speeds in excess of 50kmh and the porky 20+ kg weight of our bikes certainly contributed to the fun. I had stayed in Puli before and to me, it is just a very ordinary town but an important gateway to Taroko National Park from the West. We found a local eatery selling Mee Sua (a soupy thick gooey noodle dish) which was a favourite for many but fussy me had "adequate sufficiency" after a couple of mouthfuls.<br />
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Our<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> team of 8 E-Cowboys and Cowgirls left at 2pm whirling away from Puli along Highway 14 and enjoyed a somewhat flattish ride for about 12km. The climb really starts after the 711 at 12km and although we were still full from lunch, we raided the 711. </span><br />
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There was a hose at the carpark and some of us could not resist washing our bikes. After all, getting it a bit lighter is important, as every gram saved counts! Out of nowhere, a rather gruffy chap appeared and scolded us for using the hose and that was the signal for the climb to begin.<br />
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With 2 batteries, we had ample reserves and I wasted no time to tackle the hills with ease on "Sport" mode. It made light work of the climbs, especially the steepest portions. Memories of each hairpin climb came back clearly to me and I remembered one particular section that nearly all of us in 2012 suffered from leg cramps as we painfully pedaled and pushed our way up. Dr Mike and Dr Celia were administering First Aid in a café then to those grimmiscing in pain.<br />
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This time however, I climbed up with a big grin permanently plastered on my painless face. The 350w motor really made easy work and averaging 20kmh was not a problem. At one stage, we could even overtake slower trucks who were struggling to inch up those steep slopes. All the climbing on full power meant we were running low on power but that was quickly solved with a quick change to a new battery.<br />
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This climb is not just beautiful in terms of scenery as we ascended but it also has a historical place of significance. We passed by the <a href="https://www.rtaiwanr.com/cingjing/wushe-incident-memorial-park">Wushe Incident Memorial Park</a> where in 1930, the Japanese Army killed over 1000 Seediq Aborigines in response to an uprising where 130 Japanese died. This is marked by the Mona Rudo Resistance Monument.<br />
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On a side note, though both Korea and Taiwan were colonized by the Japanese, Taiwan enjoys a better relationship because Japan sought to prove to the world that they could be good occupiers by really building the country with sound infrastructure. Also when the KMT took over Taiwan after WW2, the terror they reigned upon Taiwan known as the 228 incident from 1949 to 1987 made the 1915 Tapani and 1930 Wushe incidents seem very small. More here in this<a href="https://www.e-ir.info/2019/03/01/the-unusual-case-of-taiwan/"> excellent article</a> -<span style="color: #000120;"> The Unusual Case for Taiwan.</span><br />
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Cingjing is a major tourist attraction in this part of Taiwan and for good reason. Some parts look like the rolling hills of New Zealand with sheep and all. As a result, there are lots of hotels and very European looking ones too. It does not take a lot to imagine we have somewhat landed in Switzerland or some alps in Europe.<br />
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We regrouped at the first 711 (there are 3 up in CJ) and waited for KC whose curiosity got the better of him as he went to explore some hotel in search of Harry Potter. It was nice to arrive here without feeling totally knackered and this place is special because it was where I met Ying Chang in 2012. He cycled all the way from Taichung to meet us here then!<br />
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Our hotel was the Ailiga Villa which is 3 mins walk to the Town Centre. Truly we were blown away by the warm reception we received and gratefully impressed that they allowed us to park our Ebikes in their office for safety. Moreover, they welcomed us to charge our batteries with their ample power sockets. Super bike friendly!<br />
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Frank on guard duty!</div>
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KJ and Frank were absolutely delighted to be in their very special Hobbit Villas and this was later voted as one of the best value for money accommodation for our entire trip - at less than 1000NT.</div>
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The rest of us 6 shared a double story huge family accommodation which resembled a Swiss Ski Chalet with wooden floors, walls and a special ceiling with an overhead window. Gary and SW took the honeymoon suite while the 4 of us were upstairs. We were all so happy to be here at Ailiga Villa and our room boasted of the most scenic view ever of the mountains right in front of us. One small snag was 6 of us sharing one bathroom! But we survived and still remained great friends which said a lot.<br />
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We enjoyed a piping hot steamboat dinner which was perfect in light of the cooler weather up here in CJ. The servings were huge but no one complained as everyone was hungry. We ate lots of fresh veggies, pork, beef and mutton and the soup just kept getting better and better as the dinner went on.<br />
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We had had to go for an after dinner walk after all the feasting and visited the Swiss Garden area and the 711 for coffee and dessert. It was wonderful to be on our feet without our bicycles for a change, in the cool pleasant surroundings.<br />
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What a glorious day this has turned out. Blue skies at SML and even bluer skies at CJ. Thank God indeed and we sing for joy at his great love for us! We felt extremely privileged to enjoy this first part of our climb in such glorious weather and in the company of great friends. Our happy spirits were of course also due to our rather effortless climb thanks to our Giant Fast XR Ebike (plus the blessing of the complimentary battery). Although tomorrow's hard climb to Wulin will cause many cyclists a sleepless night, we on the other hand had no such anxiety. We all slept well and with great joy!<br />
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This beautiful song probably captures the spirit of this beautiful day for me! Have a listen. </div>
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<br />Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-36119955448175211362019-05-19T23:19:00.001-07:002019-05-20T03:53:49.451-07:00LTF E-Adventure Day 1 - Taichung to Sun Moon Lake. 57km<div>
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2 very different approaches to wet weather footwear!</div>
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Fermented Smelly Tofu - the "durian" of Taiwan. Delicious!</div>
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For those who know Taiwan, the East Coast is much much more attractive than the West Coast as the latter tends to be very industrial and even polluted. If you are thinking of doing a round island, the best way to traverse the West Coast is by High Speed Train at 280kmh/h and spend more time exploring the magnificent mountains, valleys, rice plains, endless coasts of the eastern part.</div>
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But we had to collect our bikes from Taichung so the plan was to get them and ride east to Sun Moon Lake asap. We chose to stay at the Mini Hotel near the Feng Chia Night Market. This hotel has a British theme based on the iconic Mini and as an incorrigible car fanatic, it resonates. Being near the night market meant great pickings for dinner but the main reason is that it is not far from the Giant Flagship Bike Store.</div>
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It was a very wet morning and we taxi-ed to collect our bikes after a sumptuous breakkie. The bikeshop boasts of an impressive showroom but unfortunately due to a misunderstanding, our 8 E-Bikes that we ordered were not ready for collection despite our telephone confirmation a few days earlier. The staff were apologetic and started to source racks and panniers for the majority of the bikes who were not tour ready. This meant a 2 hr delay but with the pouring rain, we didn't mind. It was great too to finally meet up with Alice who trained up from Chaozhou, some 3 hrs away. For all the trouble, the staff decided to compensate us with a spare battery each and this was truly a God sent blessing which saved us on more than one occasion.</div>
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We left at about 1pm and rode 5km to the central train station into the heart of town in the soaking rain. It was a strange but pleasant experience to be on these E-bikes which is a pedal-assist type. This meant that the power only kicks in when you cycle and the boost you get is rather addictive. I was quite worried if the water would affect the electric components of the Ebike but that proved unfounded. It was rather fun just getting completely soaked wet as we cycled through the streets of Taichung.</div>
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Note my most effective wet weather foot wear!</div>
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One unfortunate consequence of our later start meant that we missed the 130pm train to Ershui and we had to decide whether to cycle the 40km there and continue to SML or wait till 4pm to take the next train. For safety reasons, we decided on the train even though it meant riding to SML in the dark. This long wait enabled us to enjoy a lovely burger lunch at Freen Burger just across the Station. It was surprisingly good with super fresh ingredients and a tasty burger! Just wearing our shorts meant we got a discount as the tagline for this eatery was - "Be living in your shorts" - something that we would be doing for a week on our bike trip.</div>
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The train ride to Ershui was uneventful and it was only about an hour. However, it is always good to have our own in-house entertainment in Uncle KC for he never fails to bring the house down, or rather the train down.</div>
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Upon arrival at Ershui, Alice tried to talk to a conductor of a train heading in the direction of SML to allow us to board but to no avail. That train was not designated to take full-size bicycles unfortunately and we sorely missed the advantages of travelling with a foldy. </div>
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The ride to SML was about 50km and we had only about an hour of sunlight left. The sky was already dark and cloudy with pregnant rain clouds but the kms flew by quickly as we put the Ebike advantage to good use. We were all cruising easily at 25-30km/h through quiet roads and it was magic to be gliding at such a quick pace with not much effort. The soft whirling sound of the motor was something we had to get used to and we did so quickly.</div>
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We stopped at 711 after about 30 km to refuel and then began the 20km plus climb up to SML Although the Giant Ebikes had lites as part of the rental package, they were rather dismal and it was a challenge to ride up the mountains in pitch dark roads. Only Gary brought proper lights and I nearly crashed into a low hanging branch, which added so much to the night adventure. We started the climb with 70% left in our battery but this was depleting at a faster pace than expected. That got me worried!</div>
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7km before the top, we stopped at a Police Station for a quick toilet stop and more importantly, to switch batteries as some of us were dangerously low. The Policeman came out wondering what mischief this mortley crew of 8 were up to in the dead of the night! With a fresh battery, we powered our way up with confidence and I set it to Sport Power and literally flew. The all too familiar SML town centre soon appeared and we made our way through the back lanes to Shui Yang Boatel Hotel. This lovely place is situated just by the lakeside and is reasonably priced - another gem recommended by YC! The owner was expecting us and greeted us warmly, directing us where to park our bikes. This is one plus of travelling Taiwan, most hotels are so bike friendly.</div>
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Pic fm Booking.com Shui Yang Boatel</div>
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Arriving at 9pm plus, most eateries were closed except for the life saving 711 but we were not fussy. After a quick shower, everyone was in high spirits and I had my absolutely delicious Jpn Curry Rice with Taiwan Grape Beer!</div>
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We had done a total of 57km on our first day and climbed a respectable 1470m. It was pleasantly effortless. I reckon we used only 30% of our strength to get here thanks to electric technology. If this was a sample of what's to come, we can't wait to enjoy the rest of our adventure.<br />
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Everyone slept very well that night and before I slipped into dreamland, I thought about the blessing of the very unplanned extra battery. We thought we could make do with one but someone up there knew better and was keeping a close watch over us.<br />
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*Photo credits - KC Auyeong</div>
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Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-33992224310016974362019-05-18T22:40:00.000-07:002019-05-18T23:06:36.522-07:00A thoroughly electrifying climb up 3275m Wulin, Taiwan and beyond! Apr 2019 - Introduction<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our beautiful LTF E-Adventure decal done by Taiwanese artist Alice Ko.</div>
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Both pics above fm Yee Chao</div>
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Drinking coffee at 250kmh and more, onboard the excellent Taiwan Hi-Speed Rail.</div>
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Whether we like it or not, age creeps up upon all of us and as invincible as we sometimes feel as cyclists, our performance is affected as the years go by and as our bodies wear down slowly. This means that some of the tough routes we have done when we were younger, could possibly be precluded as we age. But is there a satisfying alternative and hope for us young Seniors?<br />
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One of the most beautiful bike rides I have encountered in my 15 years of bicycle touring is the route from Puli to Hualien on Hway 14 across the 3275m mountain pass of Wulin through the breath-taking Taroko National Park, Taiwan.<br />
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Prof Celia Tan on her trusty Bike Friday Pocket up Hway 14, 8km from the peak. 2012</div>
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My first time in 2012 doing <a href="http://lovethefold.blogspot.com/2012/03/day-1-welcome-to-taiwan.html">this tour</a> organised by George Lim of LCSG changed my life. The 50km climb was super tough especially near the end and my knees were out of action for 3 months. My second experience through this route was on a Kymco 180 Scooter in 2017 and that was a breeze but somehow, not as fulfilling nor memorable as doing on a bicycle.<br />
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The itch to do it again, this time with friends new to cycling needed to be scratched but how do we go without dying from sheer exhaustion and pain? A cyclist friend Yee Chao <a href="https://sportsincycling.com/blog/taiwan-adventure-on-e-bikes/">posted about a tour </a>he did along the East Coast of Taiwan on a Giant E-bike with his wife and this sparked something in me... Was it possible to scale the daunting Wulin on an Ebike? Nobody as far as I know have done this before and I could not get any advice despite thorough research. But I was all game for a challenge. It would be like scaling Everest wearing an Exoskeleton Robot if you were a Mountain Climber.<br />
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This would be an amazing experience if it all worked out to plan and we actually tried this out some years back in Ibaraki University of Health Science in Japan.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_pZO-pPGNrsISA0e0QKSO2QXaLzkG56NIQb95bp-SFXEE63YXOs45ikYvB38MSkWFF7eO3DpOxgrELGc_uh-5E4i61Y3bGP99_g6BEGZ19pC01AUfZCZBx_-94IfZpKFPsqVCIsbIV-o/s1600/LTF+Cyborg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_pZO-pPGNrsISA0e0QKSO2QXaLzkG56NIQb95bp-SFXEE63YXOs45ikYvB38MSkWFF7eO3DpOxgrELGc_uh-5E4i61Y3bGP99_g6BEGZ19pC01AUfZCZBx_-94IfZpKFPsqVCIsbIV-o/s640/LTF+Cyborg.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Yee Chao was very kind to share his experience of his tour on the E-bike and it was encouraging to know that a full charge, if ridden carefully, could give a touring range 60-70km. Perfect for a typical LTF tour. However, climbing a steep mountain pass was a different story. The Ebike gobbles heaps of power going uphill and this is what Yee Chao shared...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gKx9ha5OH3KRveDJGOY7PnsgiOwYN5HNyaGsYic6yIHaIjrGYylOd6qAlUmbFmgTM43iXDEp7iF7SO_KhvVcCnya-NmQWL32MQTuhZZtDOB9LX6DMSUY97fO1aLWCW2plDin6VIW2RI/s1600/LTF+YC+Climbing+scale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gKx9ha5OH3KRveDJGOY7PnsgiOwYN5HNyaGsYic6yIHaIjrGYylOd6qAlUmbFmgTM43iXDEp7iF7SO_KhvVcCnya-NmQWL32MQTuhZZtDOB9LX6DMSUY97fO1aLWCW2plDin6VIW2RI/s640/LTF+YC+Climbing+scale.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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"This climb (10km, 800m) alone for my weight already used 60-70% of the battery." </div>
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The first stage of climb up from Puli to Cingjing is already 28km and from CJ to Wulin is much steeper and about 25km. One solution was to carry an extra battery but the cost of renting a Giant E-bike is not cheap. This was the 2018 rates pick up from Hualien. 7 days rental will cost S$200 and an extra battery would be another $80.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRslqFor-WuO9XMnWKYT3z2EF5hgs_yZ5QR1FZHxS4UuFMFgDEIikS86jQ8HICHJ3D3vBr0bUYCGVVKOIriw8lbWc9KmrBtuLUDDYJBvC7_phs4bnIqUeEKh-a7H3jY5zs90zO3-sEBVo/s1600/LTF+EBike+Rates.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="702" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRslqFor-WuO9XMnWKYT3z2EF5hgs_yZ5QR1FZHxS4UuFMFgDEIikS86jQ8HICHJ3D3vBr0bUYCGVVKOIriw8lbWc9KmrBtuLUDDYJBvC7_phs4bnIqUeEKh-a7H3jY5zs90zO3-sEBVo/s320/LTF+EBike+Rates.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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As we wanted to start out from the West and cut across to the East, the hard work and research kindly done by our buddy Ying Chang indicated picking up the bikes from Taichung was possible. After a flurry of emails and phone calls, the deal was made however Giant only had 8 Ebikes available. Furthermore, this would cost us 30% more due to the fact they have to transport the bikes back from our drop off point in Taitung. To put this rental cost in perspective, a scooter costs only $10 a day or is 4 times cheaper and a car is about $50 a day - the price of our Ebike!<br />
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However, Yee Chao's words resonates - "The E-bike rental is not cheap. The price can rent car already but the experience is priceless!"<br />
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Though this made no financial sense, some things in life must be experienced regardless. I managed to rope up a team of 8 who was game to give this tour a try and I applaud them for their keen sense of adventure!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgB_3BLo3-pTd194wE6d-a1jLAGdva4koeh2a_wqX0jrmXpZMWaTIhUfjaPlF4yUFX2HnG9Q2G5exL4swWCr7xu1rdGaddvW0UsAhjN5gCqFDxxV568jX4uTtEAzyRlM-lUor1osmJuNs/s1600/LTF+E+Adventure+Team+Day+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgB_3BLo3-pTd194wE6d-a1jLAGdva4koeh2a_wqX0jrmXpZMWaTIhUfjaPlF4yUFX2HnG9Q2G5exL4swWCr7xu1rdGaddvW0UsAhjN5gCqFDxxV568jX4uTtEAzyRlM-lUor1osmJuNs/s400/LTF+E+Adventure+Team+Day+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Missing Alice!</div>
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With that, we flew to Kaoshiung on Apr 15 and caught the speedy HSR bullet train to Taichung with so much uncertainty. Can we do it with just one battery? What would the weather be like? Would the E-bike have enough power to bring us and our luggage up those long and steep climb?<br />
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The plan was to train from Taichung to Ershui, then cycle to Sun Moon Lake. Then down to Puli, Cingjing, Wulin, Hualien and along the beautiful coast to Taitung. The unknowns, adventures and dangers that awaited us beggared belief.<br />
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But on a wing and a prayer, we began our first E-bicycle tour trusting Him who hold us in His good hands!<br />
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Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-361676753741621322018-11-25T19:42:00.001-08:002018-11-25T19:42:33.337-08:00Mae Hong Siong (Hokkien for tough) Adventure - 26 Nov to 12 Dec 2018<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwRnf2hqr5eHi81BPSCt9ldhMzK-W6whhqb2a-gPaGIQPdjO5Ey_66vaMu6JY3l17mTB0WU_GVJPE8uFzOYBIR4KhRn7qNn_P_4heVx1igdC1kPRktHn-qXhFwGeNFGmI-hJEGgpyF-d4/s1600/MHS+Loop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="1000" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwRnf2hqr5eHi81BPSCt9ldhMzK-W6whhqb2a-gPaGIQPdjO5Ey_66vaMu6JY3l17mTB0WU_GVJPE8uFzOYBIR4KhRn7qNn_P_4heVx1igdC1kPRktHn-qXhFwGeNFGmI-hJEGgpyF-d4/s640/MHS+Loop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have always been enamoured by N Thailand ever since I drove this 600km loop 10 years ago. If memory serves me well, I have done this twice on scooters and twice on bicycles. Yet, I'm preparing to fly there again as I write to do my 3rd ride this time on my Bike Friday Expedition. Previously, I used a Dahon Speed Pro and last year, the Marin Four Corners. It has been serviced by the ever thorough and skillful Lewis of Unique Custom Cycles and it is ready as can be. The real question is whether the twin piston engine of yours truly is up for the challenge of long, long inclines and fun, speedy descents.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJDhrHGAs-nSlk5nXvV0KUmpzvVig-vIUYPzvhPbTkmkhIQA1F04gpSgjXpQ5PTsmNZRnZWq-oCAVrshbBsmNqrCkjRPuNjjyPGJ0ySxLTYxzeh1hDNA28WVWmNYGITZnenMvBunXJSw/s1600/MHS+19+BF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJDhrHGAs-nSlk5nXvV0KUmpzvVig-vIUYPzvhPbTkmkhIQA1F04gpSgjXpQ5PTsmNZRnZWq-oCAVrshbBsmNqrCkjRPuNjjyPGJ0ySxLTYxzeh1hDNA28WVWmNYGITZnenMvBunXJSw/s400/MHS+19+BF.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Our team consists of 17yo Wayne, who did it last year and that changed his life literally. He is hooked on cycling ever since and is keen to flatten them hills with his new 7kg carbon road bike. 3 other MHS newbies are joining us. Gary and Siew Wan, who are like me, the slow and steady bicycle tourists (note - not tourers) who like to enjoy the ride more than the pain. They too will be flying the Bike Friday Flag, namely the NWT and the Crusoe. Also, a well known long distance champion cyclist who I respectfully call Nuclear Heng. He enjoys pain and has taken part in numerous Audax and ultra long distance riding. He will be on his Dahon Speed Pro - a true classic foldy that is fast!</div>
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Last but not least, I am so glad my trusty LTF buddy, Ying Chang is coming along to pilot the Mothership. He did this with me last year and it is a joy to be able to have him on the team again for this most important role. I forsee spending a lot of time with him in the cockpit - judging from my very ill-prepared physical condition. </div>
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So why am I going back again and again and again? Words are hard to express and capture the sheer beauty, the majesty, the people, the food, the experiences and of course the sheer satisfaction of conquering crazy mountains on the humble bicycle. </div>
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Stay tune on LTF and find out!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27xqa__TJphceWwNMKH6KVWOH85nMuzOHhyphenhyphenBD8la3cIb19_6KFviGb4BotesiRGcfyhhpLoEk6yU3yCNLUdoapFVcpALrwZBZXQ1WW6U1c4E0dloODopmVSwEBOV8yNoOE1vKTWCeuMY/s1600/MHS+George.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27xqa__TJphceWwNMKH6KVWOH85nMuzOHhyphenhyphenBD8la3cIb19_6KFviGb4BotesiRGcfyhhpLoEk6yU3yCNLUdoapFVcpALrwZBZXQ1WW6U1c4E0dloODopmVSwEBOV8yNoOE1vKTWCeuMY/s400/MHS+George.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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<br />Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-75744641059395242562018-11-12T22:03:00.002-08:002018-11-15T16:02:17.238-08:00A bike-train commute to retrieve Sir Song<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_JQtrROSeBh_0G6E2ogR6M8qGl0ahzXwEf8qTRRUq0NAtPR9u3N6cOhpYLsyEvOEbBBPp6kOHVmBxDzsWN1LKR6gotRSae8sz3lNdzVM269rLWQezhQ3A46huCwlyp58GPOqZIP-hKbQ/s1600/20181113_122447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_JQtrROSeBh_0G6E2ogR6M8qGl0ahzXwEf8qTRRUq0NAtPR9u3N6cOhpYLsyEvOEbBBPp6kOHVmBxDzsWN1LKR6gotRSae8sz3lNdzVM269rLWQezhQ3A46huCwlyp58GPOqZIP-hKbQ/s640/20181113_122447.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNdn1ApGaLTspwyAmbqikGrElyITllEtBnUfmrFkRfjmVa4wOaSeglU89PZM8Hrip66vAXsa9VlK5O-bH2aJNrTYprn2HU-WoIDBdLjWJu8W3B-hdncBRBU1HXZgMrCClHKZxK-5a5TY/s1600/20181113_105005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1097" data-original-width="1547" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRNdn1ApGaLTspwyAmbqikGrElyITllEtBnUfmrFkRfjmVa4wOaSeglU89PZM8Hrip66vAXsa9VlK5O-bH2aJNrTYprn2HU-WoIDBdLjWJu8W3B-hdncBRBU1HXZgMrCClHKZxK-5a5TY/s640/20181113_105005.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Singapore soon celebrates its 200th year since Sir Stamford Raffles founded her in 1819. A huge celebration is planned by the government and with its amazing economic miracle and transformation, there is every reason to do so.<br />
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On that note, it is interesting that a century ago, a prominent Cambridge Lawyer <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Song_Ong_Siang">Sir Song Ong Siang</a>, a Straits Chinese, wrote his classic book, "<a href="https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/22184230?selectedversion=NBD3214603">One Hundred Years History of the Chinese in Singapore</a>" and published in London, 20 Dec 1922. This is a must read and not many copies exist today.<br />
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Therefore I was so excited that my Aunt Ruth, an avid heritage historian, asked if I could retrieve her one and only copy from a friend who lives in Swanbourne, Perth.<br />
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Of course I happily obliged as I was too excited to get my hands on this rare book as our forefather Chia Ann Siang was given a mentioned.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1BkLa4A4qZ990-uF1XhyphenhyphenKu09T7aw4Na90-D8cHPv4oeqNZ-7LWbsJsWanffPsXmRDQYeeHYm5y-H-TQg_Kw-75mMwyow6J0LF3NHpcAs7B6LIP_Q9cpyd7FTZa3QXbRZHzh8GB3gas9w/s1600/20181113_122156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1BkLa4A4qZ990-uF1XhyphenhyphenKu09T7aw4Na90-D8cHPv4oeqNZ-7LWbsJsWanffPsXmRDQYeeHYm5y-H-TQg_Kw-75mMwyow6J0LF3NHpcAs7B6LIP_Q9cpyd7FTZa3QXbRZHzh8GB3gas9w/s640/20181113_122156.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Swanbourne is about 20km from where I live and a 40km commute by bicycle in the hot sun didn't appeal. I could drive or ride my Tricity scooter but decided wisely on a bike/train adventure.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NTfWCPgErbRfaEX23Tdn_KDIx8b0ha_kUDR9glDuTYhSMgmlKga4L6CWPorXgKez8lnQGjKregOfAA7WQ0zrdXYn9m7oIzeYa4CE5jved7csI45GBF4veO8k_aMZFiYhJDuzW7rL6QE/s1600/20181113_120219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1022" data-original-width="1600" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NTfWCPgErbRfaEX23Tdn_KDIx8b0ha_kUDR9glDuTYhSMgmlKga4L6CWPorXgKez8lnQGjKregOfAA7WQ0zrdXYn9m7oIzeYa4CE5jved7csI45GBF4veO8k_aMZFiYhJDuzW7rL6QE/s640/20181113_120219.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Turned out to be the best decision ever! A 2.5km easy ride to Canning Bridge Station, hopped on the super fast train to Perth City, change to Fremantle line and before I knew it, I was at Claremont Station. A scenic 2km ride around a lake brought me to Peter's huge home and as arranged, the precious book was waiting for me by the front door.<br />
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It was unfortunate that Peter was not home but I was glad to get my hands on the book. I took a different route back to Claremont Station via the other side of the lake and was back home in under 2 hours.<br />
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Best of all, the train fare costs less than $3, cheaper than the fuel for my thrifty Golf and even Yamaha scooter.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMjsXuZsvAEjDZc7Yn-GN_f2Ia3m8fka3QhQXCwl10qKOKDwVUyjyX0gINsSVdu0kTn6l3kyVJd_nI72zQzf65Dn1PgRCYfWeFzlG72GTxgg_jJbNKfM39H69cjVUnTl6ODUUi7yTUU8/s1600/20181113_105201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMjsXuZsvAEjDZc7Yn-GN_f2Ia3m8fka3QhQXCwl10qKOKDwVUyjyX0gINsSVdu0kTn6l3kyVJd_nI72zQzf65Dn1PgRCYfWeFzlG72GTxgg_jJbNKfM39H69cjVUnTl6ODUUi7yTUU8/s400/20181113_105201.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I reckon a bike-train way of commuting is unbeatable. Cheap, fast, pleasant and fun.<br />
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Reflection - As we journey on in life, perhaps the best way of going about it is with God who watches over us.<br />
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Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding<br />
In all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3,5,6<br />
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<br />Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-44472424608910665602018-10-15T19:15:00.001-07:002018-10-19T22:33:20.814-07:00Testing - why my photos in this blog have all disappearedIm still puzzled as to why my photos have all disappeared.<br />
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One possible reason is that I copy and paste them from FB and this is somehow affecting it.<br />
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I shall try now uploading the pics from my computer and see what happens. Here is it and done on 16 Oct 2018.<br />
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Lets see if it stays. Most frustrating!</div>
<br />Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-69147540041703254012018-04-03T21:29:00.000-07:002018-04-04T00:44:50.352-07:00A Weekend Getaway to SE Johor Day 4 - Cruising home across the sea to Changi<br />
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We had a great sleep at Sungei Rengit City Resort and woke up about 7am. Seems everyone was still in bed when we checked out and we cycled 1km to town in search of a suitable Breakkie. One advantage about Malaysian towns is that food is never a problem with Chinese, Malay or Indian fare always available. A good way of determining if the food is good is to simply observe if it's popular with the locals. This little eatery that we decided upon sold noodles and it was doing a roaring business, especially with takeaways by the Petrochemical workers on their way to work.<br />
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<img alt="Image may contain: people sitting and outdoor" height="300" src="https://scontent.fper1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28279206_10156097916877629_4988777377602176422_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=v1%3AAeGxOxhtNazKmL5WfQENEZ2tu0FgmM39Jlg87h48QYYrH38JcQD5t0gfnZdOAVrA_SCVzhcO5xiLNIl5vl9r5DQxpmhl0yjRnTUQeuWgSGCMgg&oh=61e691f09c014ab117feb7c3736f1631&oe=5B6D65C4" width="400" /></div>
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While waiting for our breakfast, it was interesting to see so many Seniors on their bicycles fulfilling their morning exercise routines. If you don't already know, keeping active through exercise is the best way to grow old as it keeps you fit, healthy and alert. Look at some of these Seniors who I truly respect and admire.<br />
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<img alt="Image may contain: sky and outdoor" height="300" src="https://scontent.fper1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28059460_10156097918977629_3449560503298546758_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=v1%3AAeEacc_iZZCAs41IjmRm1Dbl4Z4IJC8zAQp6kE0eIfbGdtwzpyDmLodfdVEyXB6iyLB5DZrjMJdl6XTa3xKBjUDgoppQEiZaKHOJrRJx-QtR8w&oh=6be87d15db7775a2271f99cc69886c8e&oe=5B331F8C" width="400" />ur </div>
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Our noodles did not disappoint as it came piping hot, filled with lots of ingredients and laced with the classic black soya sauce gravy. We enjoyed it thoroughly and was tempted to go for another bowl but we had 20+km to cycle to the jetty and cycling with a bloated tummy was not quite a good idea. I was pleased that WTM Guru Chris Wee commented that this eatery is right on top of his fav eats in Sungei Rengit.</div>
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<img alt="Image may contain: drink and food" height="480" src="https://scontent.fper1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28167775_10156097918817629_2027985343297357701_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=v1%3AAeHTLzHdFoKRVNMabqBxMBjibobzCY-ChOK5dmpICAoXmeiS3kBkQaw5wef7znUMM_ZrhUpjqmoDLylGmp9Zh78UOsJpd5LL7mxrz3jkESY2wQ&oh=2d12b135569bc890ae5136c0593a7a8a&oe=5B374EC2" width="640" /></div>
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Many people have asked what time does the ferry leave from Penggerang to Changi and the answer is whenever it wants to. More precisely, it leaves when they have 12 passengers to fill the boat and when that is going to happen is anyone's guess. So we decided to try to be there at about 930am, to catch the first ferry.</div>
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In the pre-Petrochemical development days, the route to the jetty was a pretty 17km coastal ride through sleepy villages with nice detours on country roads with tall swaying lallangs. Here is an account on <a href="https://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/?doc_id=2786">Crazyguyonabike </a>of our ride in 2007, to give you an idea of how serene this route was.</div>
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I have many precious memories and must have done this old route over 20 times and most memorable was when my 6 yr old son rode this whole distance with us. Little did I know that his bottom was really bruised black and blue no thanks to the cheapy Momoki child bike saddle. I still feel guilty about that to this day! </div>
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However now, we need to cycle north along the highway to Kota Tinggi for about 6-7km before veering left for 15-17km, and that leads to the last 3 km of the old coastal route to Tg Pengelih - a total of about 22km if I remember correctly. Needless to say, the ride along this modern highway was rather boring and open. It was a good thing that we rode in the morning as the heat would be unbearable and oppressive at mid-day.</div>
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<img alt="Image may contain: sky, road, outdoor and nature" height="480" src="https://scontent.fper1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28468109_10156097920172629_8929059039014234644_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=v1%3AAeFMDwlzYzsQFOLpUT2VwsWHRQe89er67BQfBAQdBwf_vqCf3pDA4Or4pHbtXO0UYSw8zkJ_YcL3uoy-bs4M5QrvmJVYksrM0zDJvxopKuUTuA&oh=e01b8ee22bdb23a08becbe2f5391b6d3&oe=5B71774D" width="640" /></div>
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I was very happy when this highway ended and I instantly recognised the old route. We passed the Naval Base and before we knew it, the familiar WW2 Machine Gun Bunkers came in sight. These formed part of the British Coastal Battery and similar ones are found in Sentosa Island, Singapore though there, they had a battery of huge guns. Sadly, they all pointed the wrong way as the Japanese Imperial Army came via from the North and not South from the sea. </div>
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<img alt="Image may contain: outdoor" height="480" src="https://scontent.fper1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28167245_10156097920367629_5699927275094259693_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=v1%3AAeESSpipXEY3IAnH5YszeZXx-mdbDyo7Ja_6Nx9yizfXyGo5OdDwtXkBGo9dr2R72lGiC4oplaK3pQeZke0HE74U8uJR7FBWs1YtUYMzMlc05g&oh=dfe0fae4aa2cde328e755850c2fed33d&oe=5B2C0377" width="640" /></div>
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When we entered the Immigration Building, it was quiet as a mouse and we knew that was bad news. The security guard, an old unshaven guy who looked like Desperate Dan of Beano comics (ok, I just revealed my age) was friendly and advised us it was to be a loooong wait. Why not go for some tea a at the Malay eatery down the road? He was very kind indeed and we obediently went.</div>
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<img alt="Image result for dastardly dan beano" height="266" src="https://i2-prod.dailyrecord.co.uk/incoming/article1260181.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Desperate%20Dan.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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This eatery is just 50 m down the road from the Immigration Complex. </div>
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<img alt="Image may contain: sky, tree, outdoor and nature" height="480" src="https://scontent.fper1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28167203_10156097920552629_199810223629499834_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=v1%3AAeF8YTWARgzSSHkROzI6pd3BWxH7j3cGZvsUi_wdjFbeYUvG1olftSEdLz9ZkWTWwvrvWKRVCZeGXzoGrfg_HSfIIPBgaK2pYKMgthDCYhOr-w&oh=0a8ba9e932e7c341b95fa9ecd5212cac&oe=5B64C9BE" width="640" /></div>
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While we were having our tea, a worker decked in his overalls came to introduce himself looking so pleased to see us. Apparently, Shah is a tourer himself and had noticed our bicycles with pannier and all. He was having his tea break and is presently working in the Petrochemical development. It was good that he also knew our friend from Muar, Datuk Acid Mustafa (the famous Malaysian tourer who has 25 bicycles at the last count) who he considered his Sifu (master). Shah recommended we try touring a lake near Phatthalung in Southern Thailand.</div>
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We had to wait nearly 3 hours before the 12 people quota that was needed to fill the bumboat was fulfilled. Salvation came when a Chinese family appeared in a car and all of a sudden, it was all systems go. Passport details were filled up by the boatman and before we knew it, it was time to clear immigration. We were so happy to be finally moving again.</div>
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The boat fare was a reasonable 30RM or 35RM (can't quite remember) for one person plus bicycle. KC and I settled behind and got comfortable. We secured our bicycles with rope to the boat railings and felt really happy and grateful to finally be going home. </div>
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<img alt="Image may contain: one or more people and outdoor" height="480" src="https://scontent.fper1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28167899_10156097921177629_5463938774916209900_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=v1%3AAeEFd1EQlqNGmzmADvvXgZPzuVus3glWbRSsspFE8tNAJ7Uv0l84GDWc3bCZc9H-cCxXSfgQN96vz2eYf9Xgdn_31nZQ2KQ8-Ti6YpJ9sNP-RQ&oh=c4347db37c142b0d3318f32e710d2993&oe=5B6C193E" width="640" /></div>
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One key advantage of taking the breezy boat back to Changi is how easy and smooth this is compared to fighting it out with motorcycles at Woodlands Causeway breathing polluted air. For sure, this is definitely the better alternative to coming home. </div>
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<img alt="Image may contain: bicycle and outdoor" height="480" src="https://scontent.fper1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28278960_10156097921912629_7910929309798341090_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=v1%3AAeEuPyG7pVdmBz3R019QeO0Hj2iE6mA7Kh2LfSddfEEV2VagHS6YSOZCAodExJfEWRqkQyOyej9LxentcWo9cHDwkc8B5a5gmJWNrnIK-s5gIA&oh=6479eed78d3522fc461c869d6863819e&oe=5B394799" width="640" /></div>
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Reaching Changi, we cleared immigration and headed to the Hawker Center where we enjoyed a nice Duck Rice lunch. I was really blessed to catch a MTBiker who had just finished cycling Pulau Ubin. He was driving a Grab MPV and was willing to send me and my bicycle home for S$15 as lived in the next suburb. One of many small acts of love from a loving Heavenly Father!</div>
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Reflecting back on this mini-loop, I was very grateful that my buddy George Kee could cycle up with us to Kota Tinggi and restore his confidence back on the bicycle after his head injury. It was also a ride that brought me many happy memories as I used to tour this region very often 10-15 years ago with my family and friends. We used to stop at Ah Ma's (my wife's cousin's Grandma) house 6km before town and she would receive us ever so warmly! Though she has passed on, her poor family would have to move because of this development. Not easy after living all your life on a quiet spot by the sea. Felt a little sad that sleepy Sungei Rengit and its surroundings will be forever changed due to industrial and economic forces but that's life - and the price to pay for progress.</div>
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This route is truly one of the better weekend escapes for Singaporean cyclists and I would certainly recommend it. Although we took it easy and covered it in 3 nights, it can be done in 2 with the first night at Sedili Kechil. </div>
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Hope you can discover this beautiful ride for yourself soon! </div>
Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-42801376750097669782018-04-02T23:33:00.000-07:002018-04-02T23:41:58.938-07:00A Weekend Getaway to SE Johor Day 3 - Coasting in the wet to Sungei Rengit<br />
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We slept through heavy rains and thankfully woke up with lighter rains. It was to be a wet ride today - 67 km southwards to Sungei Rengit on the coast. </div>
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We had breakfast at about 9am which was a simple egg, sausage and toast Western breakfast. As the rain continued, we were not in a big hurry to leave and we took our time.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Just as I was about to head off, I had a rear flat tire which was very annoying. My experience with these Primo Comet tires have been excellent so far when it comes to speed but they are not meant for touring. Punctures seem a natural occurrence with such light road tires almost like having to top up your water bottle! New Marathon Plus have been ordered.</span></div>
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Setting off in the rain was most refreshing. We stopped at a bridge for a photo and then pressed on 35km to Tg Balau along some beautiful undulating roads. I always enjoy riding in the rain and have organised tours particularly in Aug in Thailand as riding in the wet is so special.<br />
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One thing that is very needful are a good set of mudguards so that the muck and grime kicked up from the spinning tires are contained. Unfortunately, my rear mudguard was not long enough and it got my back a bit wet.<br />
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KC and I spun at a very good clip and we managed this stretch in 1.5 hrs despite the hills, some rather challenging. As we pulled into Tg Balau, the rain was still falling but it did not dampen our spirits one bit. Tg Balau is just about 7km north from Desaru and has a decent beach. Despite the wet weather, many local families were picnicking there, undeterred much to my amazement.<br />
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We stopped at the Tg Balau Beach Resort and a room there was about RM200 which was reasonable as it seemed to be a fully fledged resort with swimming pool, restaurants etc and was buzzing with people. Despite the rain, we enjoyed our lunch of a simple Mee Goreng and Nasi Goreng at a food court, washed down with hot tea.<br />
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<img alt="Image may contain: Ped Al and K.C. Au Yeong, people smiling, people sitting" height="480" src="https://scontent.fper1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28166344_10156095131302629_4233297090418883096_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=v1%3AAeGhWfvW8lYnCSslxvmDI_5kXAjxi298gWOnvGz8J3s3uYl4P5O6pLJOdg3X40LwHtedPnzpWxbfYmyI1bjX2TfVWa8Xv_RDG7VuTaanBXe2fg&oh=481278dd577692690bbc27ba4ff4235b&oe=5B69FC3B" width="640" /><br />
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The next stretch to Sungei Rengit town was a mere 30km but we still have to battle the famous Desaru rolling hills. I have had to struggle through these before especially when the sun was blazing but this time, we seem to just cruise over them thanks to the cool weather with intermittent rain. When we arrived at the turnoff to Batu Layar, we veered towards the coast and was rewarded with the most beautiful scenery.<br />
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KC and I spend time with the famous black rocks and I had a drink at Batu Layar Beach Resort Cafe while waiting for him. At this point of the coast, the wind was howling non stop and my parked bicycle was covered with very fine sea spray - not good for a steel framed bike! KC took forever taking photos but I didn't mind one bit as I was happy munching on my crackers.<br />
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Continuing down southwards, we had to go back to the highway for 3km - 4km or so before being able to turn inwards towards the coast again. This route brings back memories for me as I used to stay at Tg Ramunia Resort which sits in a beautiful private cove. We hung around for awhile and met up with the owners who told us that one night in a chalet with the sea literally 20m in front of it will be RM120 per night.<br />
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After shooting too many photos, we continued on Hway 90, an easy 9km towards Sungei Rengit town and passed by a sign "Kg Simon". I'm always fascinated with this as it reminds me of my best friend Simon. We stopped at a stall selling deep fried snacks and we had a donut and a curry puff each. Total bill was RM2 - now this is definitely for the locals.<br />
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As we were riding into town, I spotted a motorcycle wash and stopped to ask if they could give our dirty bikes a good spray. The kind boys did it and was not expecting any payment. We pressed RM5 to them gratefully and they were pleased, and so were we.</div>
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We looked at a couple of hotels in town and what struck me was how this sleepy town is thriving! New restaurants and hotels everywhere with so many people thanks to the new Petrochemical Park that is being developed.<br />
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All the hotels we used to stay Hiap Hwa Hotel etc had seen better days and as we cycled around, we spotted the brand new Sungei Rengit City Resort.<br />
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Being the newest, there were quite a few long stayers - Koreans and other nationalities who were working nearby. The manager was kind to let us see a most suitable room and we settled there happily. They were also bike friendly which was most important. KC wasted no time to set up the laundry line!<br />
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We enjoyed dinner at Beautiful Village Seafood, owned by a distant relative of my wife and the food was excellent. Prices were reasonable so long as you avoid lobsters and fish. After dinner, we enjoyed a nice Thai foot massage at a very new and glitzy Loy Krathong Spa.<br />
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It was nice to have our legs attended too after a long ride and when we were done, it was drizzling lightly. A quick ride to have the obligatory Teh Tarik made for a perfect end to a long day. Even at 10pm, this eatery was buzzing with people.<br />
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As we cycled back to our hotel, fire crackers just opposite the entrance started and it reminded of the good old days when I was a young boy. This being the tail end of Chinese New Year, I supposed the family was making full use of the festivities to fire their biggest and best for good luck.<br />
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<img alt="Image may contain: night and outdoor" height="480" src="https://scontent.fper1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28378365_10156095429862629_8771501423778072539_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&_nc_eui2=v1%3AAeElty8BfDRsE4_Ko2nmLytzahHTTwB3086bU02AFPHvugXm-LVOefeSKSswDFjwOOJMgkzghEIa1dAEQNtv9huwbw4c3VFq_DjdjJeVBw1NMQ&oh=31e5f70646b359a36b85f4ae3e218338&oe=5B67C0D1" width="640" /><br />
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Thankfully this stopped after 30 mins and we could sleep in peace. It was wonderful to be in Sungei Rengit after an absence of 5 years and how things have changed indeed.Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-36000655747096517412018-02-27T18:00:00.000-08:002018-02-27T19:13:37.555-08:00A weekend getaway to SE Johor Day 2 - Chilling out in Sedili Kechil<div style="text-align: center;">
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We took our time to wake up! Instead of 90km to Kluang, we only had 50+km to Sedili Kechil so it was to be another easy day. What was supposed to be a 5am start ended up a much more decent 9am start as we vegetated in bed longer than we should. Still, at 8am, we were the only guests at Mayrest Hotel's huge dining room all beautifully decorated in red and for Chinese New Year.<br />
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As with the usual hotel complimentary breakfast, we weren't expecting much but the simple Nasi Lemak, Mee Goreng and freshly made Curry Puffs with Coffee/Tea surprisingly were very good. However, it was strange being the only 2 in a room with 20 tables and with just the receptionist keeping herself busy on Facebook. KC too kept himself sufficiently entertained.<br />
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I had a very small portion of breakfast as we were setting our sights and stomachs on Kiang Kee Bak Kut Teh, some 14km northwards. This is one of those must eat icons if you are in the vicinity as their pork bone soup is truly second to none and having eaten there a few times, we were excited. The morning ride out of Kota Tinggi town was cool and pleasant.<br />
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With wide shoulders and light traffic, we were spinning very nicely indeed. It was great fun to be cruising with the wind in my face and we arrived at Breakfast #2 spot in exactly 40 mins.<br />
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But horrors of horrors, they were closed! Our hearts sank when we saw the deserted place from afar as this eatery is always buzzing. We parked our bikes and just rested, sipping our water bottle looking disappointingly at the wonderful menu of food photos displayed. 2 dogs came to bark at us, telling us we were not welcome, at least today. I reckoned BKT sellers do very well as yesterday George's BKT was also closed, and now my favourite store - wealthy enough to be able to close for 12 days! Quite a few cars came around with high hopes and we waved them on - as they joined us in the Fellowship of No BKT!<br />
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Not to worry, we pressed on for just another 2km to the turn off at Hway 99 and as KC said, at this junction, there are lots of Malay Cafes. We chose one that was modern and new, and ordered Roti Canai and Teh. It was nothing compared to what we could have had at Kiang Kee but beggars cannot be choosers. Flexibility is the key to enjoying a tour and we made the best of it. The weather was forcasted to rain at 11am so we set off without wasting too much time.<br />
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This was the first time I have ridden on Hway 99 and it proved a beautiful route with nice rolling hills. KC mentioned that this was a favourite among roadies and it is easy to see why.<br />
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We arrived at Sedili Besar, the main town at just about 11am and we have polished off an easy 40km. This is a rather bustling fishing port and we rested at the jetty overlooking the long bridge spanning the Sedili River.<br />
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We took our time to just have a sticky beak around this small town and ended up in a Malay eatery where we had ice cold drinks and an early lunch. There were many freshly cooked dishes on the table and all we needed to do was to help ourselves to these delicacies. This being a fishing village of sorts, we opted for the fried fish in sambal and it was so good.<br />
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Riding the next 12 km skirting Jason's Bay was easy as it was flat as a pancake. With a full stomach, we could digest the miles effortless and arrived at Sedili Inn Resort at the other end of the bay in no time. Resorts around this region are very sparse and worn out eg Mutiara Motor Inn 500m before has seen better days. So SIR being only 2.5 years young stood out like a beacon of hope and light.<br />
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Modern architecture and the new-ness of the place are what attracted us to change plans to come here. Despite being a Friday, strangely we were the only ones to check in . My first impression was how bare and empty this whole resort looked. There wasn't even a proper sign or at least I could not remember seeing one stating the name of the resort. Credit to the staff for being warm and friendly and we were given 2 options - Inn room at RM 159 and Chalets at RM 189 with breakfast. Our Inn room, though a tad small was newish and clean. However, we had trouble with the aircon that was not working. It took 2 attempts by the staff to get it sorted and we were glad. However our room was rather devoid of any character - it was just a room. No TV, no pictures, no kettle and worse of all, no WIFI.<br />
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The resort faced the beach and that was very nice with sea breezes blowing non stop and the place to be was at the dining area where there was Wifi. The lone Fixie there also kept us company. We spent pretty much most of the afternoon at the dining area as the rains came pouring down. It was nice to just chill. We took a short ride out of the resort to have tea at a cafe and truly, Sedili Kechil is a VERY quiet place.<br />
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Dinner was Kampong Fried Rice and a place of BBQ meats and that was quite satisfying. However, the kitchen had a rather limited menu and after half a day here, I felt rather sad for SIR as there is so much more they can do to really give customers a reason to come here and for a return visit. The reception claimed that last week was really a full on one and I was happy to hear that. But for many city folks, being stuck in a place like this with very limited facilities can be rather challenging. That said, I actually think this is a perfect place for a Spiritual Retreat for a time of reflection and quiet conversations!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Be still and know that I am God - Ps 46:10</b></span></div>
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After dinner, we spend time catching the last of the sunlight at the beach which was very pleasant. Today must have been one of the easiest ride I have ever done and sometimes, it is good to have days like these - just relax, don't ride so far and just chill at Sedili Kechil.<br />
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Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-7706107178397972082018-02-25T19:14:00.001-08:002018-02-26T18:56:44.789-08:00A weekend getaway to S E Johor Day 1 - To the Falls. <br />
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Pineapple Colon anyone?<br />
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The itch to ride sometimes needs to be scratched! Even for just a weekend and this is what we did recently. The plan was to head to Kota Tinggi, then head north towards Kluang and then maybe Mersing. But we were just happy to play it by ear, and see what happens.<br />
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3 of us, George, KC and I met up at Kranji MRT on Thursday 730am and made our way to Kota Tinggi - an easy 45km or so from the Causeway. This would be George's first overseas ride after his head injury in Oct and it would be ideal for him to gain back his confidence and fitness. George has rode around Peninsula Malaysia before!<br />
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Crossing through the Causeway took 10 minutes and we found ourselves cycling in the thick of JB traffic. Getting out of the busy city was not as painful as expected thanks to wider roads but crossing the many overhead bridges/passes took a bit of caution as cars were flying by quickly.<br />
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Our first stop was at Tebrau City where George usually stops for breakfast. His fav BKT shop unfortunately was not open due to CNY and we settled for Mamak. There, an elderly man from Taiwan came excitedly to us and started chatting, sharing his own touring stories. I took the opportunity there too to replace a leaking front tube of my BF Pocket.<br />
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Passing by Ulu Tiram, George stopped at his friend's Jetski shop which was not opened. The traffic had by now significantly thinned and we had wide shoulders making the ride most enjoyable. We started encountering rolling hills but this kept things interesting as we had to work a bit harder.<br />
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However after the MHS Loop, all other hills are rather flat. We pulled left into the minor road (Hway 3 out of Ah 18) that lead to Kota Tinggi at just after 11am. Was very glad that George could make it all the way safely and we marked this with a nice pic.<br />
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Crossing the famous Kota Tinggi Bridge evoked memories of my first ride here on my Honda Cub C70 some 38 years ago. It is good that the bridge and surroundings now have new developments that resemble some old fort, giving it some historical significance of the old Johor Empire.<br />
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Many Chinese eateries were still closed for CNY and a quick chat with a local Senior Citizen pointed us to Public Restaurant some 200m before the bridge.<br />
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We enjoyed lunch there immensely as this was clearly one that was good enough to hold wedding dinners with the much appreciated aircon and tastefully decorated interior. We ordered just 3 dishes - Sweet and Sour Pork which was the best I have taken for a long time, Kiam Chye Soup with Tofu and crunchy Bean Sprouts with Salted Fish. That with drinks were a reasonable S$21 for the 3 of us.<br />
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Looking for a hotel, we had aimed for Rest Inn but came across Mayrest Hotel. Interesting that the word "Rest" seems to be the key focus among hotels here and that was what we were after. Mayrest Hotel is the tallest one in KT with 12 storeys and at about RM$100 per night, we happily checked in there. They were bike friendly and rooms spacious and clean with great views!<br />
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The number one attraction of KT is her waterfalls and I remembered when our posse of 5-6 motorcycles arrived there some 30 plus years ago at an unearthly 6am only to be greeted by a policeman with a shotgun!<br />
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Things have changed now and it cost 15rm to go in. For that, there are some facilities like cafes and changing rooms but the waterfalls still look beautiful and nice, though there are still too much litter around. We found a shady spot and had fun!<br />
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The Grab Taxi charged us RM20 one way and it was worth every dollar as cycling 17km in the blazing 2pm sun was not exactly bliss. At 3pm, the same taxi came to get us 10 mins late back to Mayrest where Bro George then rode it all the way to JB for a reasonable RM45.<br />
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KC and I had afternoon tea at Cheese U where we had the thickest Tuna Sandwich ever! The powerful aircon really was so appreciated. We did an evening ride around the beautiful river side and took some gorgeous sunset photos.<br />
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We had a simple dinner at KC's fav eatery of 2 noodles dishes and then to the riverside for some juicy and crispy satays that were most amazing! Of course, we had the very necessary Teh Tarik for the perfect finish to a lovely meal.<br />
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It was indeed a wonderful day of easy riding but the most difficult question before us was - where is our next destination? Although going to Kluang was the original intent, the lure of a relatively new resort in Sedili that I just came across on the net won us over. Cycling along the balmy coast beats the heat of riding along the busy inland Hway 91 through oil palm plantations and a quick exit out via ferry was most appealing.<br />
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We slept feeling very smug with our last minute change of plan.<br />
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<br />Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-68560786016900908592018-02-04T05:56:00.000-08:002018-02-04T18:43:07.337-08:00The Final Day. MHS Day 11 - Maewin to Chiang Mai 60km<br />
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We all slept like logs at Maewin and I remembered waking up feeling ravenous. Seemed I was not alone. A quick dash to the restaurant for breakkie saw most of the team tucking into the wonderful buffet including waffles, cold cuts and cheese - indeed a true and welcome Farang friendly establishment in this neck of the woods. Young Mark got his wish as the kitchen served him a plate of 10 chicken wings - an order he placed at last night's dinner. The kind owner teased him saying if he continued to eat that way, he would turn into a chicken! This was probably our best breakfast in the whole trip and we all enjoyed this amazing start to a glorious day immensely.<br />
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As it was to be our last day of cycling, everyone was in a relaxed and jovial mood. It was not cold but a cool 18c, much warmer than what we were used to as we have lost considerable altitude. Today was easy peasy - a largely downhill 60km ride back to Chiang Mai and our plan was to return via the quiet 4032 which ran along the beautiful Ping River and to celebrate the end of our adventure in style.<br />
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The Mothership was happy as all bikes were going to be rolling today and she would be unburdened. After gathering to commit the day to the good Lord, a most important practice, we began our easiest day of riding. We said goodbye to Maewin Resort and began our descend as Team LTF!<br />
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It was so special to be gliding through the quiet mountain road with the cool wind in our faces, the morning sun in front of us and breathing air that was oh so fresh. I thank God for the gift of life and particularly the gift of this day where I can enjoy this priceless experience in the company of precious friends.<br />
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I was made aware of the sheer beauty and tranquility of our surroundings as we progress through neat strips of vegetable fields in between the lofty mountains and its artistry forced us to break our momentum to savour the moment. Sometimes in life, we need to stop and smell the roses and it applies for bicycle touring too.<br />
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The sound of a gurgling stream nearby caught our ear and we went to investigate. We were richly rewarded with a scene that would make any painter pick up his brush.<br />
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As our wheels spun happily downhill, I noticed quite a few lycra-ed cyclists on fancy roadies coming up presumably from Chiang Mai on this beautiful Highway 1013 and it was easy to understand why. At this stage the rest of the team were gone leaving KC, Celia and I, proud members of the over 50 Club taking the rear. There are quite a few Elephant Camps here and we came to a screeching stop when we saw a magnificent gentle giant just coming out of a river.<br />
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As we sojourned further down, we stopped again to witness tourists enjoying themselves at another elephant camp. One elephant was actually spraying water onto them and their squeals added to the fun.<br />
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As we were enjoying our descend, we were overtaken by 3 weekend warriors on roadies whose sole purpose was beating their personal best. In my younger days, I would have loved to give chase just like the natural instinct of man's best friend but having mellowed wonderfully, I just smiled and enjoyed my quality time with Celia as we soared on our wheels. Mothership was next to pass us by with George sitting at the rear waving us by cheerfully as always.<br />
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We spotted a guy on a recumbent going in opposite direction and then saw Mothership as well. We had passed by a most unique Swiss Guesthouse with many bicycles displayed and I was willing to wager that Mothership would turn around. I was right!<br />
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We were told later that this was a fascinating place where the owner Frank had his passion hung for all to see and touch. Perhaps this is a resort worth staying next time - <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Hotel_Review-g2237291-d649694-Reviews-Swiss_Ticino_Guesthouse_Restaurant-Mae_Wang.html">Swiss Ticino Guesthouse</a> which enjoys very good reviews.<br />
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All good things must come to an end and for our case, it did when we arrived at Khum Khun Wang Resort where we stopped for coffee. The reason for this is simple - it had the most beautiful cafe in this area and it seem to be the meeting point for many expat Doi Inthanon cycling groups.<br />
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While Thai cafes are always special, this one more so because the lady owner, a warm and kind motherly person made sure we felt welcome and at home.<br />
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We settled around a nice table in her cosy sitting area and enjoyed our various coffees immensely, snacking on some crispy rice crackers. This place certainly deserves our highest recommendation!<br />
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At this stage, we were all getting hungry and decided to try some famous Chicken Rice some 20km away. As we took off on our bicycles, poor Celia had her 2nd puncture on the trip on the same front tire. This was the perfect opportunity for Bro George to show off his new tire remover and he stripped the tire from the rim effortlessly.<br />
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As fast and light a Primo Comet tire is for club rides, it sure ain't a touring tire as the culprit was a minute wire strand. George was not impressed and our resident guru Chris Wee advised on Facebook, "<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Time to get a (Schwalbe) Marathon fm Ah Lek (famous bike shop in Chiang Mai)."</span><br />
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It was a great to be riding on the flats once again and this time we decided to keep a tight formation and ride together this 20km to the lunch spot. With Lance leading the charge and all of us drafting each other, we were making tracks. Everyone was feeling so good and fast!<br />
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We sat on 28=32km/h all the way and everyone could keep up thanks to the wonders of aerodynamics. I felt like being in the Tour de France as we covered ground like we never did before, wooshing away! Best person to follow was Wayne as behind him, there was absolutely no headwind. Meanwhile our ever watchful Mothership was always either in front of us or behind, just making sure we were all ok and I cannot express enough thanks to the team of YC, George, Wendy and Mark!<br />
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It was disappointing that the famous chicken rice place was closed and I have learned that Google is not 100% accurate. But that is something we who used it often ought to know and we took our chances. Fortunately, there was a decent eatery nearby and we settled on that. One of the joys of being in Thailand is that there never is a shortage of food if one is happy to settle for the usual Thai offerings of fried rice and fried noodles. And ice water is usually complimentary!<br />
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Riding along the Ping River northwards toward Chiang Mai is a pretty route and having done that before, I led the team along 4032 with confidence. Traffic is light and the scenery very pleasant but roads can be a mite narrow in some sections.<br />
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Drafting is a very efficient way to cycle as we experienced earlier and I am always looking for opportunities that present itself. As I was just saundering on my bicycle, out of nowhere appeared a motorcycle with a trailer loaded with stuff, probably on its way to set up shop at some night market. The rider was an elderly lady who operated in her own time zone, She just cut into my lane unaware of my presence and cruising at 30km/h oblivious to traffic behind her. This was of course the perfect opportunity for me to get behind and I enjoyed the riding advantage for a few minutes of bliss. I was wondering if I should just hang on to the trailer but the unsteady weaving manner in which she rode made me think otherwise. After all, finishing the Mae Hong Son Loop with a crash caused by a silly stunt would not be something I like to tell my grandchildren!<br />
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It was also wonderful that the ever ready KC was in the vicinity to capture the moment, as he always does!<br />
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When she took a left turn, my joy suddenly ended! Opportunities come and opportunities go. I found myself way ahead of the rest and I went back to my saundering ways until the team caught up! Cynthia who had never seen this before was very worried for me and I'm grateful for her concern but those who rode with me in previous trips know my style where I have caught a ride from a logging truck, ice cream sellers motorcycle and even a Tuk Tuk etc where I had made a blundering error once some 10 years back in Cambodia. Here it is if <a href="http://lovethefold.blogspot.com.au/2007/12/spectacular-carry-me-crash-in.html">you are keen to read</a>!<br />
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It was very assuring to have Mothership wait for us at key intersections so we won't get lost and before we knew it, we arrived at the fancy <a href="http://www.pingnakara.com/nakara_jardin">Ping Nakara Boutique Hotel</a>. This is one of those upperty hotels which rooms start at 8000B and come with a pillow menu.<br />
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In front at the lobby were 2 Mercedes Benz from the late 1960s which added to the nostalgia and class of this fine establishment with a khaki uniformed doorman complete with pith helmet. KC wasted no time to capture the moment and I could not help but be amused that here we are arriving in our working class pickup and humble bicycles for their French High Tea!<br />
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Despite it being a snooty place, there was nothing snooty about the welcome and the warm service. I was very touched that the Head Waitress recognised me as this was my 3rd visit.<br />
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The grounds of Nakara Jardin is beautifully located just by the Ping River and has a lush garden with various types of trees like Frangipani, Indian Cork, Spanish Cherry, Sweet Shorea. Their website describes it vividly...<br />
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<span style="background-color: #f4ead9; color: #444444; font-family: "helveticaneue" , "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">"The designer, taking inspiration from the graceful curves of the weeping willow which overhangs the Ping river, brought in the colours and stylistic flourishes of a Monet garden. Thus was born this perfect setting for relaxed French dining, with crafted coffees, imported teas and delightful patisserie, all at affordable prices."</span><br />
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Beautiful grounds aside, we came here for the special Afternoon French High Tea which is absolutely amazing. Starting with savouries at the bottom of the 3rd tier consisting of Chicken Caesar, then Egg Ham and Cheese Sandwiches, then Mushroom Puff Pastry Roll and a Smoke Salmon Eclair. On the 2nd tier are mouth watering scones with jam preserves and fresh cream. Finally at the top are the sweets consisting of Fruit Tart, Creme Brulee, Brownie, Chocolate Mousse and cake! All this for 1000B (or S$40) for two to share with your choice of coffee or tea.<br />
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Our Team could not be happier and what better way to celebrate the successful completion of our MHS Adventure than an afternoon extravaganza like this. Despite YC's 2 ever hungry boys, there were even leftovers. George remarked that he could not even pronounced his fancy coffee properly and we all chuckled. What matters most is that we enjoyed this supreme meal together as great friends sharing a great passion! Memories are indeed made of this moments and it is something that we will always treasure...<br />
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We had one more thing to do before making our way to Bruuns Guesthouse where we left some 10 nights ago. And that was to pay a visit to Triple Cats Bicycle Shop. I had promised myself that if I were to complete this loop successfully and in one piece, I will reward myself with the Surly Disc Trucker. So off I went to place an order with Nu, the friendly and famous owner/bicycle tourer.<br />
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The make or break question was could this 650c tires fit the Surly DT frame which was meant for 26" wheels? If it could not, then it will not work out as I wanted to transfer all the parts from my Marin Four Corners to this blue beauty. The defining moment came when the wheels were fitted and behold, the Fatties Fit Fine (FFF) design of the Surly saved the day! The wheels spun unencumbered with enough room to spare.<br />
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I had no one to share my joy as the rest of the gang was busy at Ah Leks - the best and biggest bicycle cave north of Bangkok. This was their second time there and still there were lots to buy. I suspect no matter how many times one enters Ah Lek, the wallet always gets thinner! When they finally came to Triple Cats, I had to borrow some money from Lance to pay for my very expensive souvenir and everyone was so happy for me at making this excellent decision.<br />
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When we got back to Bruuns, the wonderful owner Khun Wat presented us with the much coveted Mae Hong Son Certificate of Conquest. We had forgotten about this! The kind Uncle Loh had got this sorted for us and brought it to Bruuns before making his long way back to Singapore by bus. Sadly, we had missed him by just one day!<br />
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Dinner was at the former Mike's Burgers now BB Burgers for Part One and continuing on for Thai Street Food near the Southern Gate.<br />
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It was only fitting that our last activity for the adventure was the presentation of certificates and we all had fun awarding these prized Certificates of "Conquest" to ourselves.<br />
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We started this journey not knowing how the trip would turn out some 11 days ago but here we were, back to where we began. With 600km through the toughest mountains in Northern Thailand, we have experienced excruciating climbs that tested our gears to the limit and 70km/h steep descends that wore thin the brake pads. As far as hairpins are concern, we have carved 1864 of those twisties and this is just from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son.<br />
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Not forgetting the weather where we were blessed with largely deep blue skies with beautiful morning fog and experienced a chilling 7c in Soppong to warm 30c in most afternoons. We also visited hospitals at Samoeng and at Pai and incurred a total of $23 for 3 visits for 2 people and received priceless hospitality and care.<br />
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I guess after all our hardship, we have somewhat qualified to say we "conquered" the Mae Hong Son Loop. But only through the help of the amazing Mothership team and the wonderful grace of God.<br />
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Hard to believe but we spend a total of about S$600 only for our 2 weeks adventure which included rental of pick-up, food, lodging, massages, drinks and practically everything except shopping and truly, it is hard to beat Thailand for value.<br />
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As I reflect upon this adventure some one month ago, writing this from the comfort of my home in Perth, Australia, my head is still spinning from the many amazing memories the 11 of us shared together, each day a special gift from God all weaved together skillfully like a beautiful tapestry that is etched forever in our hearts.<br />
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Someone once wrote that life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by those moments that take our breath away. If that is true, then through the goodness, grace and love of our Heavenly Father, we have each got our breath taken away, more than once. In fact, it has been taken away many many times in this LTF MHS Adventure! And the best part is that through these breath taking moments, we saw and experience them not as individuals but together, as a community of kindred spirits fused by friendship and love.<br />
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With this trip, we have all truly lived and whatever may come in the tomorrows, we can always look back to Dec of 2017 with great joy and satisfaction and say, thank you God for life, for bicycles, for mountains and most of all precious friends!<br />
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<b>Team LTF of Dec 2017 is - </b><br />
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Ying Chang, George, Wendy and Mark - the wonderful Mothership Crew.<br />
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Loh (Co-Motion Tourer), Wayne (Santa Cruz Super lite MTB), Lance (Giant Road Bike), Cynthia (Surly Troll), KC (Hasa Titanium MTB), Celia (Bike Friday Pocket Sport) and Alvin (Marin 4 Corners)<br />
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Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-17496288535686294002018-01-31T22:09:00.000-08:002018-02-01T04:10:53.822-08:00MHS Day 10 - Mae Na Chorn to Mae Win. 100km<br />
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Today is Christmas Day and while people around the world make easy decisions like which presents to open first, we had to make the most difficult decision for the trip. Our original plan was to just follow the recommended Google Map route, an easy and manageable 49km through some minor roads of about 25km. Or to use sealed good roads but it would be a huge detour involving nearly 100km.<br />
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There was only one way to find out the condition of the roads and so Ying Chang my trusty navigator and I, with Mark, hopped on to the Mothership early morning before breakfast for our morning adventure. Making our turn out of the main road into the left minor road was tricky as it was so hard to spot. When we finally found it, our hearts sank. The road began with a hilly section with loose pebbles and brown dirt, narrow and obviously more like a farmer's path. The Chevy had to spin her rear wheels to make some climbs and as we drove in for 2km or so, we knew this option was fading with each wheel spin. </div>
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There was no way our bikes could withstand the punishing roads (except YC's Santa Cruz MTB and Sinn Tail's Surly Troll) and especially a mountainous meandering one on the ridge. The Mothership too could get stuck. This was remote country and I wonder why Google Map recommends this route?</div>
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Hence with safety as the priority, the decision was to take the 100km route through mountains and piggy back everyone where necessary. We broke the news at breakfast and each put on a brave front although we knew that 100km with steep climbs would be a big ask, even for the best and strongest tourers. We met the Pastor who was happy to give us a lift near Mae Win as he had an errand to run but we were happy to work this out ourselves. </div>
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It was also lovely to say farewell to the lovely kids as they made their way to school as Christmas is not a public holiday in Thailand and I am glad KC captured these in photos.</div>
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So with breakfast taken and a prayer said, we first aimed for Mae Cham some 25km away but not without a group photo. </div>
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It was a most beautiful ride with cool morning wind in our faces. As usual speedy gonzales Lance and Wayne was off like a rocket and we soon saw 2 distinct groups - the over 50s and the speedys.</div>
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The ride to Mae Cham was pleasant compared to yesterday's killer hills and we rolled along quite nicely into town through magnificent scenery.</div>
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There were some killer climbs and we realised that these cannot be helped in this parts of the woods. More than just having a good bike with low climbing gears, conquering these hills require mental fortitude and determination which separates the men from the boys.</div>
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Mothership located a nice cafe 2 km out of Mae Cham and that was to be our lunch stop and meet up point. Celia and I took our time to arrive and had drinks at 7/11 first - always the cyclist's best friend. We seem to have taken forever to regroup however no matter how slow one goes so long as we keep moving, the waiting time for the front guys surprisingly is not too long. In this case, 30 mins only.</div>
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This cafe was somehow overwhelmed by our orders and I supposed being in a small town, 10 cyclists plus a few locals was a huge group to cater for. We had to wait a long time for our food and I took the opportunity to order some takeaways from across the road. But we were grateful for ice cold water and we enjoyed great conversations as always.</div>
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Looking at the terrain map, the next section that led all the way to the intersection of Doi Inthanon was daunting. Yet George who was feeling in the words of Karen Carpenter, "Top of the World" decided to ride with Sinn Tail carefully shepherding him. He was encouraged by his freewheeling experience 2 days ago and felt ready for some bike action.</div>
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KC was nowhere to be seen and needless to say, Wayne and Lance who was way way ahead. As the Mothership passed George and Sinn Tail, he directed us to carry on despite the hills. But later, we had a SOS WatsApp to say he has had enough and was all pumped out. We were actually surprised he could climb so far and on the Marin 4 Corners too, which did not have enough gearing for these hills. George did well for someone who is recovering from a head injury.</div>
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George was not the only one who got into trouble with these steep hills - all did except Lance. KC soldiered on bravely and was in good form but he too surrendered after a respectable distance.</div>
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I dropped off 4km before the intersection of 1009 and jumped on Celia's red Pocket which could climb so well thinking we have hit the peak. However, there were still some hills and I was getting pretty weary of them. As I was pushing up a hill, a pick up on the opposite direction slowed down and the driver yelled if I was ok. Turned out it was the Pastor from the Orphanage and it is so good to have angels everywhere. But I told him I was ok and thanked him! Even a well respected tourer like Mallika once remarked in the middle of her ride through this area that she "hated" hills - and this is from someone who I deem a true mountain goat!</div>
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I was so glad when I finally arrived at the intersection and even then, 60km of hard riding lay ahead of me. But we were not too worried as we had the Mothership which we can call upon anytime and reflecting on this, I am grateful to God our Heavenly Father who always watches over us each day as we journey on in life. He invites us to call upon him in our time of need because he loves us.</div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arimo" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">He will not let your foot slip-- he who watches over you will not slumber Psalm 121:3</span></div>
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At this stage, Ying Chang was busy driving the Mothership through the many steep hairpins collecting the fold who were all spaced out perhaps as far as 5-7km. It was a full house onboard so careful planning was needed and you can trust YC to execute that with Swiss precision.</div>
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Meanwhile, I was enjoying the nice downhill of 1009 except that the road had been damaged and worn. 1st third was sand and dirt, 2nd third uneven surfaces and last 3rd is ride-able except prone to fast moving traffic. I was not enjoying myself as I was on Primo Comet slicks which could barely keep me upright and was struggling to grip the bad road. In moments like this, it was prudent to descent slowly and safely, on a wing and a prayer. Coming off the bike under these conditions is not pretty.</div>
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I coasted down till I arrived at a small village where I noticed lots of colourful tents were present. I can certainly understand how nice camping is under these mild wintery conditions and had half a mind to join them.</div>
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Continuing on a bit I found a cafe which I stopped to wait for the rest of the gang. Lance was the first to appear and he rested for awhile before zooming off. Truly, if ever there was a cycling hero in the flesh, he was right in front of me eyes. I placed my helmet with blinking lights along the road so that our friends know to stop here.</div>
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It was nice to see Sinn Tail next on her Troll and she is another cycling queen! Amazing climbing power and so helpful a person. Soon, the rest of the gang came along and I was happy everyone made it safely to this stage. Time check - 4pm and another 40km to go. We were in trouble if we were going to cycle but we all patted ourselves on the back for the excellent choice of having Mothership.</div>
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As we could not haul everyone plus bikes to Maewin, we had to do 2 trips. So I volunteered to drive YC and Wayne first but as soon as we hit the peak some 12km away along Highway 1284, they decided to ride to the hotel and that was great as I could turn around and pick up the rest.</div>
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Meanwhile while waiting for us, KC was making full use of his time at the cafe reliving his lost childhood. Too much climbs have that effect on us...</div>
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They were surprised that we came back earlier than expected and we were soon on the pursuit of YC and Wayne. At this stage, Lance was missing in action and we were so worried for him especially if he had made the important left turn to Highway 1284. As we drove through many winding and narrow roads, the sun was setting and soon it became dark. It was not until we were 2km to the hotel that we spotted father and son in the dark, looking at their GPS for directions. They were very fast and had enjoyed a great time of bonding together on the saddle. This is how it should be!</div>
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Then like the best news ever, we got word that Lance is at Maewin Guesthouse having a drink. We could not believe it - he has conquered 100+km of the toughest roads and made it before sunset. As we checked into the resort, we all felt a huge sense of accomplishment. </div>
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Being Christmas, the restaurant had a live band and all dressed up in Santa themes which was a fitting close to our very difficult day. We enjoyed a beautiful Thai meal and celebrated Christmas as great friends who have completed a great journey together as a team. </div>
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Maewin despite the crowds had excellent and efficient service. Was told by the owner that many Westerners from Chiang Mai love to come here for the weekend and this was evident in the restaurant. </div>
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We enjoyed the music, the food, the drinks and finished the evening with a game of mini-table tennis. This was so fun and I must get one for my home!</div>
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Christmas 2017 at Maewin with Team Lovethefold - it cannot get better than this! I went to bed with a heart of praise, gratitude and song for this amazing day where we saw God's mountains, experience his care and grace. After 10 days together, our Team really gelled so well and the love we had for each other was evident.</div>
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Merry Christmas everyone!<br />
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Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-73453713748821284292018-01-31T07:32:00.000-08:002018-02-01T05:22:44.102-08:00MHS Day 9 - Khun Yuam to Hot Coffee Guest House (Mae Na Chorn) 80km<div>
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We woke up to a beautiful misty morning and as I waited for the sun to appear, my heart was filled with excitement and anticipation as today was to be a very hard day. 80km through very steep climbs, which I learned later would usually take 2 days!</div>
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The owner of Khun Yuam Resort was so nice in giving us a complimentary breakfast which was so helpful esp when we were located quite far from town. Such is the hospitality of the Thai people, which touches me time and time again. They were very enterprising as they sold all sorts of clothes at the dining area, which also offered splendid views of the mountain ranges.<br />
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I found a colourful Korean traditional dress in the dress rack and the girls all had fun playing K-Drama Actress for the morning. And they all looked stunning! So lady-like unlike in their usual bicycle gear.</div>
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Breakfast was a simple rice porridge and it was most suitable for a coldish morning start. We gulped it down gratefully and had good conversations with the owner. Seems he has 2 daughters who are grown up and working in the big cities and this is his retirement job where he enjoys with his wife. His kindness and warm smile, we will never forget.</div>
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For this stage, the first 40km was going to be tough looking at the terrain and my legs esp my knee was getting sore so I decided to join the Mothership Team for the first half of the day while the cyclists consisting of Sinn Tail, KC, Wayne and Lance took off enthusiastically. </div>
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Celia and I meanwhile enjoyed our beautiful suite and with a view to die for, it would be such a waste not to savour it. We would catch up with the cyclists along Highway 1263 later.</div>
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George, Wendy, YC and Mark and us eventually jumped onto the pick up and waved goodbye to our amazing host. Our first task was to buy gifts for the Hot Coffee Orphanage as it was Christmas Eve and we found a village provision shop where we got several tins of biscuits, a huge bag of buns and stacks of instant noodles. When the bill came, I fell off my chair as it amounted to a grand total of 800b or $32! Loh had kindly donated some funds and it nearly covered all of it!!! </div>
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As usual with great skill, George packed the loot carefully and we took off to pursue our cyclists. We headed north along 108, passed Khun Yuam town and carried on for 1.5 km before making a right turn on Highway 1263. </div>
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The first 10km or so was gentle and we finally caught up with our cyclists. Fortunately, there was a lovely cafe and that made for a cute and good stop. Rinlada was adorned with all sorts of cute cuddly toys and teddies and it was truly pleasant to hang around here. We did for longer than we should.</div>
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The cyclists scooted off and when we drove along, the killer hills started appearing. It was nothing like we have ever seen and would be one of the most difficult section we have ever encountered. So much so that I was so glad I was in the Mothership. The first person we caught up with was Uncle KC who was pushing up a climb, looking like he had enough. He flagged us down as he was in cramps and he had to "up lorry".... The gallant Ying Chang took over his bike and I admired him for his bravado! YC being a MTB enthusiast, was not the least daunted as he sped off.</div>
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Meanwhile KC was all smiles being in aircon comfort with us and even with 2.5 litre of diesel power, we strained to make some of the climbs. I had to change down to 2nd and even 1st on some occassions and I wondered how our cyclists would cope.</div>
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We caught up with Wayne, then Sinn Tail and finally Lance who was way ahead of the pack as usual. Those hills were really tough and long and I truly took my cap off to our heroes. KC was not in the least interested to carry on the suffer-fest and mother-shipped all the way to the hotel - and that says a lot.</div>
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It was good we found an ideal spot to stop for lunch and to rest. Here, we watered our weary warriors and fed them with all the food and energy bars. Times like this, I wished we had a Thai masseur with us!</div>
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The only person who was still all smiles and sparky was the all conquering King of the Mountain Lance who rode passed our stop for more climbing before turning back! What is this guy made off?</div>
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At this stage, we knew that this was going to be a very long day and I decided to head for the hotel, unload the luggage so that we have room to bring everyone's bike on board and then turn around to rescue them. So off we went for an hour's drive to Hot Coffee and Celia and I decided to ride the last 25km of the way.</div>
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This proved to be unwise as the cyclists were all running low on water and was counting on the Mothership to take them up some of the steeper climbs. Unfortunately, we didn't come back for them on time and they had to press on until George and Wendy returned some 1.5 hrs later. I felt so bad about this and apologised profusely! We under-estimated the climbs and such is the ferocity of the mountainous terrain in this part of the N Thailand.</div>
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My ride with Celia started well with beautiful downhills, and though most of the climbs over, there were stages that we had to push for nearly 1km as it was simply too steep for us.</div>
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Just as we reached the top of a long climb, Celia's Pocket had a front flat tire. She immediately asked if we could hitch a ride but it was something that could be fixed easily. A good thing that a spare tube, tools and pump were carried and not left on the Mothership. </div>
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We arrived at Hot Coffee just before 5pm and were so happy to be at this beautiful resort - this being my 3rd time. The orphanage pastor recognised me and it was so lovely to see him and the staff who welcomed us warmly. </div>
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Despite being all hot and sweaty, he threw me a bomb shell. Could we run the Christmas Eve service for the kids at 745pm? I always love a challenge but this meant we had almost zero time to prepare and what was I to say? However I knew inside me that this was a task divinely arranged and said yes, without a clue what was to be! Famished, I had cold drinks and a hot plate of fries while waiting for the Mothership to return with the cyclists.</div>
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Much to my surprise, Mothership returned empty! Everyone of the riders wanted to cycle the whole distance and they did! Not surprisingly, Lance appeared first like he just completed a ride in the park. How does he do it?</div>
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Then came Wayne, Sinn Tail and Ying Chang who was always the sweeper, making sure everyone arrived safely. If ever there was an award for LTF's Best Sweeper, he wins it hands down!</div>
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We quickly washed up and enjoyed a sumptous dinner of lovely Thai dishes and rice. We all ate heartily as we were famished. It has been a long and a very hard day. I was very grateful to the team as I expected to get a ear-full for my bad decision but no, everyone was so kind and gracious. I felt so privileged to have such wonderful friends. </div>
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At 745pm, we all rushed next door where the orphanage was and they were all waiting for us eagerly. I roped in George and Wendy, who played Joseph and Mary, Ying Chang, Lance and KC as the 3 Wise Men and Mark as the guiding Star that led them to baby Jesus.<br />
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This was based on Matthew 2.</div>
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<span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "bitter" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , sans-serif; font-size: 0.8em; font-stretch: inherit; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 6px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; top: -5px; vertical-align: baseline;">9</span><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; font-family: "bitter" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. </span><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "bitter" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , sans-serif; font-size: 0.8em; font-stretch: inherit; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 6px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; top: -5px; vertical-align: baseline;">10</span><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; font-family: "bitter" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.</span><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "bitter" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , sans-serif; font-size: 0.8em; font-stretch: inherit; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 6px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; top: -5px; vertical-align: baseline;"> 11</span><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; font-family: "bitter" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. </span><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "bitter" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , sans-serif; font-size: 0.8em; font-stretch: inherit; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 6px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; top: -5px; vertical-align: baseline;">12</span><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; font-family: "bitter" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.</span></div>
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We had great fun acting this scene out for the kids and they all laughed and had fun. My message was simple - Christmas is about the best gift that God has given us. Although the 3 wise men brought Jesus precious and good gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh and we brought them gifts of food, God gave us the best gift ever - his son Jesus. A gift that stays with us forever and cannot be stolen, lost or broken.</div>
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Accepting this gift, we have our sins forgiven, we become restored to God and given the right to become His children. Our lives become blessed, loved, guided and will truly flourish! Best of all, we are given the assurance of eternal life where we will dwell with God our Father when our time on earth is over. Jesus died on the Cross so we can live!<br />
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<span class="woj" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">For it is my Father’s will that all who see his Son and believe in him should have eternal life. I will raise them up at the last day. John 6:40 NLT</span></div>
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I invited the kids to pray and to ask Jesus into their hearts and in that sense, to receive God's gift. When we do so in faith, we become born again and what a special time we all had. Celia led us in a time of beautiful singing and I cannot think of a better way to celebrate Christmas than be with these precious children.</div>
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After the service, we asked if we could light up the last of our lanterns and the pastor gave us his permission. We got the kids to draw on the lanterns and this was when we really got to know them better.</div>
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The launching of the hot air lanterns truly got everyone excited with big smiles everywhere. As our lanterns floated slowly up into the cold, dark night, they met with a million stars that looked like small sparkling diamonds.<br />
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This surely was one of the most meaningful Christmas I have ever celebrated in my 55 years on earth and our hearts were all so glad and privileged that we could bring some Christmas joy to these wonderful children of Mae Na Chorn Children's Home. </div>
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Thank you Team LTF - Wendy, George, Ying Chang, Wayne, Mark, Lance, Sinn Tail, KC and Celia for your great help in making the evening an amazing success despite very little preparation! God's hand was certainly with all of us.</div>
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The Gift goes on...</div>
Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8941375900452521799.post-25586945103513908072018-01-20T22:07:00.002-08:002018-01-21T08:37:36.551-08:00MHS Day 8 - MHS to Khun Yuam. 72km<br />
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Breakfast is the most important meal for cyclists and we asked Khun Jum to help us supplement her breakfast with ham, sausages and eggs which we bought from 711. It was very kind of her to help us cook them.<br />
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I finally got to assemble Celia's BF Pocket which took me only 15 mins out of the Samsonite. Practise makes perfect but not after many hours of fumbling and finally learning the tricks. Hers was to be the only foldy on our team and it is a very good climber except it was shod with road tires, which though is fast, will be a challenge on broken roads on some small sections. The Thai highways are usually excellent but you never know.<br />
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Today was to be a much easier ride looking at the terrain map - just 3 small climbs to Khun Yuam and a relatively flat ride of 65km. By now we were used to monster climbs and this looked relatively mild.<br />
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Our departure however was delayed as Prof was kept busy with 2 patients, Lance who needed a change of dressing (healing very well) and a French tourist who had an infected hand. He was not shy to ask for help and we were glad we could help him out.<br />
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It was comfortable to stay at Baan Mai Guesthouse and we enjoyed ourselves very much but it was time to go, except for Loh who opted to stay for one more day before he took a bus back to Chiang Mai. We took a group photo with Khun Jum and hubby before saying our farewells.<br />
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The ride out of MHS was cool and pleasant, with Highway 1095 offering wide shoulders. We were spinning at a very good pace and it was a cool 18c. Everyone was in the highest spirits and it was wonderful to be back on the saddle.<br />
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Wayne was busy the night before looking at his GPS map and suggested doing a detour to avoid a mountain pass and we agreed. This was about 18km down the road and when we took that detour, we realised it was largely off road.<br />
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Not only that, it had to cross some streams and that proved a bit too much for us. Lance in fact dropped his mobile phone here but good thing we managed to recover it! Here he is pretending to look devastated.<br />
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So it was back to 1095 and the steep climb began. When the road is painted red, it meant that drivers are to beware of steep and sharp hairpins, and to slow down when coming downhill. What it meant for us was a hard slog up especially for Celia as it was her first day while we had a week's conditioning.<br />
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Fortunately, there was a lovely cafe and breathtaking view point which we all stopped to have a chat and a drink. Mothership met us there and it was great to see the crew. It was there that I realised we forgot to apply for the MHS Loop Certificates which can be gotten from the Tourist Office in town. A WhatsAp contact with Loh got that sorted and I was very touched by his kindness.<br />
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For some reason I felt hungry and ordered a lovely Khao Phad with egg and a freshly squeezed glass of orange juice at the cafe. That was so delicious.<br />
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I have been to this spot 10 years ago and besides being a good place to take a break, it offered a bird's eye view of the mountains. It made me reflect upon the years gone by so quickly and though many things in life have changed, the mountains remained as it were for centuries gone by. Very much like God's faithfulness to us.<br />
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That reminded me of a beautiful verse in Psalm 121:1-2 (GNT)<br />
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I look to the mountains where will my help come from?<br />
My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.<br />
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We continued on, heading south this time on 108 towards Khun Yuam and met with beautiful rolling hills. I reckon this must be the best part of the MHS Loop to cycle as we were all flying at 25-28km/h and 40km/h down the slopes. At this time we spotted the Mothership ahead of us and we stopped to swap riders.<br />
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George who was recovering nicely from head injury could not help himself and wanted to give it a go. All these driving 300km or so got him raring to be on a bicycle and this was the perfect road for him to get his cycling legs back. So he swapped with Celia and was on her BF Pocket.<br />
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We all told him to take it easy and we could all see the joy that radiated from his face! I was at first very concern for him but off he went like he was born for this, and he is! It was magic to cruise downhill with George and the team, and we were really flying as there were more downhills than up as we rolled along. We all escorted President George like VIP Outriders as we wanted to make sure he was ok. Sinn Tail, particularly tailed George closely like a very caring younger sister and special thanks goes out to her for taking such good care of him.<br />
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George spun for about 30 mins and finished the ride with a biggest grin ever. More than just a bicycle ride, that short experience for him boosted his confidence and well being greatly. It was George's first ride on a Pocket and he was impressed that despite the smaller wheels, it tracked downhill as steady as an arrow.<br />
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We continued for a bit more before stopping for lunch. Somehow none of us took photos of this very ordinary stop perhaps because we all were too busy eating. All I recalled was the ice cold water served in metal mugs! We were clearly out of the tourist belt as there were no fancy cafes or themed restaurants, being so far from Chiang Mai.<br />
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Pressing on, we didn't have much distance to Khun Yuam and the instruction was for Mothership to find a nice cafe in town and meet us there. So we all took off and I was sweeping the rear with Celia. At one climb we did, a group of 3 motorcycles passed us and stopped. They looked a bit like Police motorcycles with their boxes and all and I wondered why. Lo and behold, it was our good friend from Muar Malaysia Inchik Acid Mustafa! I asked him, "Was I speeding?"<br />
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They were on a N Thailand tour spanning 6000km. It was amazing to meet a friend so unexpectedly on the road like this and though we chatted only for 5-10 mins, it was so good to see him and his 2 friends. They were camping in Mae Kampong when the cold wave hit them and they frozed at 4c!<br />
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The last 6-7km to Khun Yuam was probably the fastest ride as it was a slight downhill with straight, excellent roads and we all enjoyed this stretch. The below 50 group was no where to be seen! But touring is not just about speed, it is about enjoying the journey especially for my missus and I where we had plenty of beautiful alone time together on our wheels.<br />
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As we rolled into Khun Yuam, we spotted KC waiting for us at the gates of an early Night Market, looking so relaxed and happy. We told him that the meeting point was just 1km up as informed by our group Whats App and we scurried away there. This cafe is just by the Japanese War Museum - a place that is certainly worth a visit and I wrote <a href="http://thingsasian.com/story/other-face-imperial-japanese-army">an article</a> about this 10 years ago. What intrigue are local Thai accounts of how kind and helpful the Japanese Army were to the farmers as they retreated from their failed Burma Campaign. There were even marriages!</div>
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At the beautiful and cosy cafe - Doi Khun Coffee, Celia wasted no time to order a very tempting ice cream tower that was eaten with the greatest delight. With free wife, cold drinks, coffee, comfy chairs and nice music, all of us planted ourselves longer than usual and it was hard to leave.</div>
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The beautiful Khun Yuam Resort was chosen because it was nestled among rice fields some 4km away from town. It was an easy downhill ride to the resort and we enjoyed the ride there immensely with the sun coming down. Somehow, today was such an easy cycling day!</div>
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I did promise Celia that tonight's accommodation would be impressive and I was holding my breath as my marriage was on the line! What you see in photos are often not what you get. The owner greeted us and showed us to our rooms. YC's family and us took the larger rooms while the rest took the normal ones.</div>
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The good Lord had mercy on me as our room was absolutely amazing! I will let the photos speak for themselves. For 1500B, they were worth every baht!</div>
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The missus was pleased and you know the saying, a happy wife is a happy life. All was well and all was forgiven as the only sounds we should hear tonight were the soothing rhythms of crickets and night birds. So we thought... </div>
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Here is an excellent video of the resort which captures pretty much the beauty and special-ness of this place...</div>
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For dinner, we all piled onto the Mothership and drove to town in the dark. We found a nice local restaurant that served delicious Thai fare. What surprised was that away from the touristy centers, prices really came down and we had 10 dishes including fish, tom yam soup and so many of our favourites. The bill came to less than S$4 per person. </div>
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If you are ever in the vicinity and want good value and high quality Thai fare, please give this place a go. At night Khun Yuam is pretty dead and we are grateful to this beacon of hope and nutrition.<br />
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ธน โภชนาขุนยวม</div>
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284/2 ม .2 ขุนยวม Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58140, Thailand</div>
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+66 87 186 4548</div>
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We retired happy for this relatively easy day to Khun Yuam and being in this magnificent resort really made for a grand close. But we had one more fun activity left in our sleeve and that is the launching of hot air lanterns. </div>
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Mark and Wayne drew all the different bicycles we used on this trip on the lanterns and I was amazed at the little details they noticed. With the lanterns all filled up with hot air, we released it in the dark, quiet, cold night and enjoyed seeing them soar upwards into the stars.<br />
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A fitting end indeed!<br />
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Pics YC, KC, Sinn Tail n AL</div>
Oldyonfoldyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03252972643288312236noreply@blogger.com0