Channarayana Durga day trek - 31 August 2014

No matter how many treks one does, there is freshness on the next one. Turned out to be double bonanza on this last day of August with BTC. A large ensemble of 21 enthusiasts gathered by 7 AM at our usual location - Shanthala Silk house near Majestic. Deepthy and Hiren were on task to keep us on leash. Hiren and Abhishek (another organizer) were just coming off from 2 day trip from Kodachadri (talk about trek addiction :P).

Funny acting evokes real expressions :) (PC: Ritu)

Soon after our mini bus was on its way, the usual ice breaker - Dumb Charades started. And this time, thanks to Vikram, I managed to not make a mess :P Ritu's guessing were too unnatural to be often asked for a ban! We stopped at Dabbaspet for breakfast (idli-vada, good but a little spicy for my liking) and packed for lunch (Vaangibath and Chitranna). The enacting fun continued until we stopped for our first trek - Devarayanadurga.

Intro session

This hill is more famous for its many temples and well built steps from base criss-crossing its way through forest and road. We started barefooted from one rung lower than temple entrance after a round of introductions and snaps. A guava tree stood at the start of steps, but pilfered of any worthwhile fruit - which perhaps explained absence of this hill's notorious monkeys at that spot.

Despite starting high above, there were many steps to climb. It was a cloudy day and there had been overnight rain too. Which was good considering we had left our bags and water bottles behind. Past the steps and a pond, our climb was an interesting mix of abrasive sand, slippery wet black mud, boulders, bushes - making us crawl on occasions.

Bare foot, interesting trek

Atop Devarayanadurga

We stopped at hill's shoulder for a while - chit chatting, pics, enjoying views around - with someone naming many of the surrounding hills, some prank. A short climb later, we reached the peak. An open temple like structure devoid of idols was there. Quite breezy, threatening to blow stick figures like me and Ankit. Discussion and plans for Dudhsagar trek too.

By the time we reached base of Channarayana Durga, it was half an hour past noon. Villagers were playing with color powder, not unlike Holi, besides Lord Ganesha idol. The still gray sky and breezy conditions lessened the difficulties of climb that lay ahead.

Steep climb

A difficult slope right from base of hill, we found ourselves struggling to ascend continuously even for a minute. Numerous breaks and snaps kept us going, surrounding view of hills and lakes and fields pleasant too. The good news was that this arduous stretch required only half an hour, including breaks. Potential bad news was rain which might make our remaining climb and descent trickier.

Outer walls of fort and an entrance marked the end of this steep slope section. Once inside, easy trek wasn't the only welcome relief - trees growing on wall, lively lush green grass, couple of mangrove like trees at the edge of pond, various shelters and ruins greeted us. Rained for sometime, but didn't ruin our way much.

Pleasing views

Madhugiri

Another 20-30 minutes to reach peak. Spotted Madhugiri in the neighboring hills on the way. Apparently that trek has been banned due to some bad incident, it would be shame if it doesn't reopen soon. As we neared the shoulder high bricked walls of peak, rain blanketed all around us. Drizzled a bit on us too but cleared and spared us again. Windows in the wall blew cold air - a natural freshness like no AC.

Atop Channarayana durga, rain all around

Hidden steps

The best and fun 'climb' was maneuvering stone projections and tree branches to reach a platform on the walls. Guess it was Abhishek who spotted it first, afterwards everyone had a go at it.

Vaangibath (Brinjal rice) was very tasty, which meant lesser wastage compared to previous trips. Followed by slices of cucumber. Abhishek managed to get extra piece promising oranges in his bag left back in mini bus (turned out he did have fruit contrary to our belief at the time, only it was mousambi not oranges).

A village group had reached peak by then. They were scouting for some particular type of grass, which they explained was used to prepare a medicinal mix.

We started our way back after entertaining and daring attempts of group pic. Descent didn't pose any trouble as rain had dried off. We stopped by the pond for a nice and long break. We had got separated into two groups - the first one reached the pond along a different path. It resulted in us meeting on opposite banks. We eventually figured that there was a path alongside the outer fort wall to connect the two, the mangrove trees made it difficult to spot.

Mangroves on a hill?

The steep slope portion on lower hill was much easier and faster to cross than it had been while climbing up. Three kids, full of wonder and curiosity about our group, saw us off while leaving. We stopped for refreshments (tea, coffee and rather colorful sodas :P) and feedback. Regulars were happy with continued good work from BTC while newbies expressed their joy of climbing seemingly insurmountable hill.

Rayakottai - 24 Aug 2014

The moment I saw Sangamesh's mail, I registered immediately - as I had never done a trek outside Karnataka. Not that man made boundaries matter when it comes to nature. It just added a superficial reason to choose between two treks on offer that weekend by BTC. Sangamesh couldn't make it though, so Deepthy and Ashwin were in charge instead. That meant all my 6 BTC treks with atleast one new organizer ;)

We were to gather at Bangalore City Junction at 6:45 AM. Learning from last trek's mistake, I arrived early. The passenger train 56514 (Bangalore to Karaikkal) was scheduled to depart from platform 1 at 7:15 AM. The huge crowd rushed to reserve seats when train arrived about 15 minutes before departure. We managed two compartments, more than enough for our 15 member group. Not noticing train number or details, two had caught some train leaving around 6:45 AM :P They got down at Cantonment to wait. And filmy style, one member got in just as train was leaving :D

Crowd swelled as stations came and we had to adjust - forcing ten of us in two seats and other five in adjacent compartment. As our ride was more than 2 hours, Deepthy asked around what to play - Dumb charades or Antakshari. Enacting it was to be, much to my dismay. And it soon turned worse as I botched mine in worst possible way - I missed my team mates guessing the answer correctly (Mandaakini)! :( :( :( Nonetheless, two rounds was loads of entertainment for us as well as to fellow passengers.

Intro session

Around 9:40 AM, we reached Rayakottai and had official intro session, right on the station platform. Most were BTC regulars. Deepthy and Ashwin re-iterated rules & regulations and informed that this was an easy trek. We had to walk about a km to reach main heart of this small town. One hotel was done with breakfast but helped us find another. We had dosas and packed Lemon rice for lunch (only 11 packs available) - which we almost forgot to take away while leaving :P

We bought a kg of Cucumber before walking a short distance to reach base of the fort. The villager in charge of gate keys had spotted us on our way and opened after short wait. There was a side path we could have taken, only later we realized that all the fuss was to get money for his 'services'. Our costumes and mannerisms brought fair share of curiosity especially amongst village kids.

Fort ahead

Another group of four were just ahead of us. Scattered cloud cover played hide and seek with otherwise hot day. Steps greeted us, some first timers wondering what the buzz was all about trekking. Few snaps and 20 minutes later, we came across a tattered brick entrance.

Time to climb

Still under the impression that it is an easy trek and loads of time to spend, we stopped more often and clicked more snaps than can be used as profile pics :P Deepthy was probably impatient to reach peak that she branched off different direction than Ashwin, rounding us at back, had intended.

We realized the error only after we had reached the dead end this way. A small temple had been fashioned in the gap between rocks - sort of cave with wide open space on one side. We didn't need second invitation to rest a bit and then cross over to the side for plenty of clicks.

All smiles :)

With this topsy turvy hill, one had no idea which is the peak and if it can be reached at all. We retraced and went the way Deepthy had taken initially. Caps and scarves were worn as it had become quite hot now and not much wind. 

We passed ominous looking boulders (and some more cave like spots) to the left, while the view of surrounding hills and town at the base was pleasing. The way curved around and was hiding the ruined buildings on one side of the hill. These brick structures didn't offer much shade for us to sit down for lunch, so on we marched to climb the one peak we could reach. Bit of wind cooled the temperatures, also helped reduce our water intake - we certainly weren't expecting this much effort for what was supposed to be 'easy' trek :P

Peak ahead

A large lamp, presumably lit by villagers on festival occasions, was at the edge of peak. And a small platform made of cut rocks in middle of the clearing. No shelter from heat though. We could see a lake at base of a surrounding hill as well as the train tracks on other side. Center fresh was passed around, water sipped, group pics taken and a decision made to reach the temple for lunch. People fantasizing cold drinks and juices and ice creams made others want them as well.

Organizers alloted 20 minutes to reach there and we surprisingly managed it - no stopping in between. Why not, when cool comforts and lunch was beckoning. But surprisingly, some were perhaps still full from heavy and late breakfast that even the 11 packets weren't all opened. Of course, our own ration of snacks were gobbled eagerly, topped at the end with cucumbers - cut using Deepthy's handy blade :P and miraculous procuring of salt-chilly mix as if it had been brought along for this very purpose. Some of us learned a handy hack too - rubbing the ends of cucumber to remove the bitter milk!

It was then time for nap for most. The rest chit chatted a while and then couldn't help ourselves from a bit of entertainment at the expense of sleeping beauties. Some snoring were recorded and then Ankit rolled a paper napkin to poke ears. I played my part in video recording :D

Train and Rain

Around 2:30 PM, it was time to descend again. Nature thought it appropriate to treat us with rain in the surrounding hills. And then a train came along to top it up. 20-25 more minutes to reach base. We stopped by a juice shop at cross roads - to partially fulfill our thirsty appetite built up at the peak. After lots of choices, we settled for two - lime juice, plain and soda filled. Our order left locals waiting long time for theirs.

Mission accomplished

With plenty of time still left for return train, we made full use of buying vegetables and eateries outside the station and more water as well. Another group pic by the sign board on platform. An argument whether nellikkai was a type of small amla or not. And then came the rain - slowly at first and then heavily. For some reason, platform was changed as well.

We weren't as lucky as morning this time in getting seats. But good enough to find standing spaces within same boggie, some climbing to upper berth and seats for few. Handy blade was utilized again - for guavas this time. About half an hour later, enough spaces cleared for all of us to adjust and sit/sleep. Expenses came to grand total of Rs 170, including Rs 5 for BTC fund. One way train ride of 99km costs Rs 25 compared to Rs 19 for bus ride from Indiranagar to Majestic :P Feedback was yet again positive along with some suggestions to improve. Kudos to Deepthy, Ashwin and entire BTC team :)

Amazing Antaragange again - 15 Aug 2014

Antaragange, the place where I started trekking more than 5 years ago, yet again had surprises in store. Having trekked there twice before, including cave exploration in 2011, I wasn't expecting much. Especially as our 12 member group were going on our own (much like my very first trek in Aug 2009), without a guide - pretty much ruling out finding and trekking caves.

Assembling at RMZ Infinity by 5:15 AM was expected to be delayed, but half an hour wait wasn't. Two cars and two bikes meant we were more flexible than say public transport or tempo traveler. The delay did turn out good though - we agreed to stop at Kamat for breakfast (I hoped we wouldn't miss it as was the case in 2009). Our day largely was that - ad hoc decisions, seemingly going wrong but turning out very well in the end. The two unfortunate pillion riders had to bear chilling morning as well - not for lack of jerkins but just missing out the detail before starting.

Everyone agreed to order idli-vadas, with some opting for second helping as well. Followed by tea/coffee. The bill surprised us all - costlier than RMZ bay! Food being decent was the only consolation - we left no tip :P

The sign boards on highway were helpful and we co-ordinated just to be sure. We reached around 15 minutes to 8 in the morning. The tri-color flag were flying high, literally, on some hillocks on the way. Functions were underway in school grounds. We were carrying one too.

Raring to go :)

Though we arrived later than planned, we were still early trekkers. Not all shops were open. Even the notorious monkeys weren't active yet. And I kept recalling tidbits of my two previous visits - first things in life usually have that effect.

It took less than an hour to reach the village by just following steps (constructed as well as carved) or the worn path amongst liberally spread out boulders. I thought I would be able to identify atleast where we had started cave exploration in the 2011 trek with BMC. Along the way we did stop now and then, enjoying the view and flora. Krishna would spot birds and name them - when most of the time we weren't even aware that they were perched high amidst branches in far off trees.

Flying high

My past experience having exhausted, we crossed the fields to our right and started climbing another hillock. We thought we could perhaps find a way to reach the far off hill where a huge flag had been erected and besides which four silhouettes were barely visible.

It was the start of proper trek - no more steps or worn paths. Thorny plants came instead. And some decent climbs. And of course, more snaps in the wild (relatively speaking). After sometime, in between which we got split into two groups - one scouting ahead and the other enjoying behind, we stopped under huge boulders for a break. A small depression filled with rain water was used by some to dip their feet! While Mohan was showing his spiderman skills to climb huge boulders - and had to help others who followed. Wind was quite fierce atop, could have literally blown me if I was careless.

After quite a long break, we were called down. A village kid (looked much younger than his claim of studying 7th standard) was offering to lead us to caves! And of course we accepted the offer. A splendid stroke of good luck it turned out to be.

Marching on

The kid's response to some questions were vague, especially regarding the distance to be trekked. It was growing hotter and our water supplies were running thin. In retrospect, we were better off not knowing ;)

Hard work

Sky is the limit

Our little guide was quick and sure footed in his slippers, while we must have looked crazy to him in our shoes and bags and clicking pics of stones. He led us away from flag hill, but that looked lost cause anyway, across more hillocks and views of fields that we were pretty badly confused while coming back. Just when we were growing uneasy, past 10 AM by then, nature gave us our first treat. Guavas! - red pulp type. There were enough for all of us - it almost became a game to spot a ripe one. They were delicious alright, but more so in rejuvenating without making us thirsty.

Resting time

Soon after, we were climbing the next hillock - ruins and small pools atop. We took another long break besides the pools, and of course snaps, including group pic clicked by the kid. To finally reach the caves, we had to first descend a tricky stretch and walk some distance amidst trees. Middle of which was nature's second treat - Butterflies, 100s of them! We just couldn't click enough. Such a nice natural spot, worth every step taken to reach there.

Butterflies time

And a little ahead was Jamun tree, but not good on taste. The trek was getting better and soon we reached the cave entrance - about an hour since the kid led us, three since morning. I am almost certain this one was different than the spot led by BMC in 2011 and probably less/not known amongst regular trekking clubs.

Excitement of entering caves was palpable - especially amongst first timers. At a glance from outside, it wouldn't seem that one could get inside at all. We did crawled inside one by one, and clicking many snaps of course. The drop in temperature was welcome as well. The small spaces were then joked as hall, kitchen, etc. More crawling and jumping and passing bags ahead as we went ahead, getting dirty in the process. We would alternate between narrow passages and large empty spaces. We even spotted a monkey skull and of course the spidey webs.

Narrow entrance

Living room ;)

Secret exit

40 minutes of awesomeness later, we were out the other side. The kid guide even tried to 'kid' that we were going back same way :P That would have been boring. It was half past 11 AM by then. We would have brought more water had we known we were to trek so long, but it only made the effort that much sweeter.

The kid was anxious to get back to his family near the hill he met us and we weren't matching his speed. The way back was different now and that meant we won't be passing by butterflies again nor the pools near the ruins. Sun was out in all glory, leading to breaks and adding to kid's uneasiness. He left while descending a hill (he had to go left and asked us to continue straight) - we gave him chocolate and money for his efforts.

After another round of guavas (but different place, as we were coming from another direction than we took while going to caves - we looted more this time, adding some to bags :P), we managed to descend next hill (path wasn't straight forward amidst trees and boulders and thorny plants) and reach a village path.

Wrongly assuming that this path would lead us down, we took left only to find the little guide with his family working! The kid was visibly distraught and almost shouted in defense that he had mentioned which way to go. We went back and continued further along the village path, only to realize that we simply had to cross the path immediately where we had climbed down - neither left nor right along the path :D Further trouble was only saved when some recognized the tall boulder with its heavy wind we had climbed prior to meeting the kid.

There were other trekkers around too, some asking us direction to caves - we cautioned them to not attempt without a guide. But we weren't asking them how to go back :P After spotting the tall boulder, all was well anyway. Reaching the base is not much to write about - except that we were craving for a cold drink and sweating much in the heat. Lot many people were climbing, some bare footed! At the temple, some of us took longer break in the shade of trees. I wanted to take out the 200 ml guava tetra pack - there came monkeys and trying to snatch my bag. Scary but somehow I got away safe.

It was baking inside cars when we reached base.Had to turn AC for few minutes before we could all climb in and leave. We had lunch at Shanthi Sagar (had breakfast here both my previous visits too), about a km from Kolar bus stand on the way to Bangalore. But to reach there, one has to take service road on right side - we couldn't co-ordinate in time, some had gone other side and had to come back. Food was decent again, complaint this occasion being long waiting time.

All in all, yet another wonderful trip to Antaragange. I guess it won't be my last visit either ;)

TCS Open 10k 2014

Preparation

It took lot of convincing from my friends part for me to register for 10k run last year. With very little practice, sporadic one at that, I took 78 minutes, 14 seconds to finish the run. I felt happy and satisfied to have finished 10 km of running, walking and stretching with generous dose of water and electrolyte filled drinks.

For this year's race, I was determined to practice, not just participate as well as personal goal to finish under 70 minutes. Despite 20+ treks and six 100km+ cycle trips, I struggle when it comes to running. Having got to know about Runners for Life last year, I did some simple research and started with 10 minute morning run with rest day every third day. Three simple stretches post run followed occasionally with Sirsasana. Cross training was incidentally set by my cycling interest. By third week, I was able to jog 20 minutes continuously. Less than 3km stretch. Participated in Rupee for Humanity 5km run as a testing ground. To finish it around 34 minutes with couple of water breaks boosted confidence a lot.

But then came unexpected break of around 2 weeks leaving me to run just to get back in stride during the tapering week. And not even a single 5km+ practice run. I had clocked 400km+ in about 2 months on my cycle, which on hindsight, seems to have built my stamina more than jogging practice.

Collecting Bib

The unexpected break also meant that I wasn't in Bangalore to collect my BIB at the expo in Koramangla. A call to helpline number confirmed that I can collect it on eve of race day at Kanteerava stadium expo already scheduled for outstation and overseas participants.

South gate of stadium was closed (purposefully I assume), which meant that a 2 minute walk from Corporation Circle bus stop on Rajaram Mohan Roy road became a 10 minute hike round the stadium. Collection of BIB itself was a smooth 5 minute affair - BIB handover (plus glossy booklet with lot of info - timing, dos and donts, route map, etc) with instruction to not bend the timing chip, followed by goodie bag collection and timing chip testing (to ensure it is working and pointing to your name). There were information desk and photocopy machines also near the collection counter to those who came ignorant of instructions.

Goodie Bag (source: TCS 10k FB page)

I didn't bother to visit merchandise outlets or the pasta offering. While leaving, I noticed a small opening under iron railing being used to cut short about 5 minutes of walking. I didn't miss the opportunity, lazy bum that I am.

Also spent the day reading through blogs posted on social media as well as interesting video on youtube about water requirement during the run.

Race Day

Just like 2013 edition, it rained heavily the night before Sunday race. Excitement and mosquito bites meant that I had only about 4 hours sleep before waking up in a jerk for 4:25 AM alarm. Immediately felt stomach sourness and possible vomit. Caution to not run if ill surfaced from dos and donts. Freshening and a orange juice sip made me feel better and with enthusiasm I walked to bus stop around 5:15 AM (without encountering dog barks, phew). With past experience, I waited patiently for bus and alighted near the stadium with plenty of time to spare for offical 6:15 AM cut-off.

Warm up was underway (awesome view from bus) while scores of runners lined up outside the entrances. Newbies walked hither-thither, inquiring and generally disrupting queue. Volunteers would help now and then, policemen trying to guide traffic near parking lots.

After security check and informed of gate number change, I climbed the winding stairs leading to hold up area for 'E' group runners - less than 80 minute finish last year worthwhile after all. A 'F' group member was trying to cajole a volunteer to let him join his 'E' group friend. Outside the stands, sizable crowd stood patiently in multiple queues to relieve their bladders.

Upon entering the stands, saw few policemen observing the proceedings, while runners in all stands were in full flow with warm up exercises. I couldn't make out anything being belted out due to echo, but there was a large display in center, trainers doing steps above a raised platform along with trainers inside each of the stands. Impressive to say the least.

Warm up and myself after run

I though, was taking care to pin my BIB and then gobbled two red bananas (my favorite for treks/running/cycling events) after which emptied the minute-maid orange drink. Couldn't spot a garbage bin :-/ Stomach still felt odd.

As the sky brightened, more blue and white than grey, the event started right on time 6:05 AM for corporate. Few runners came minutes late, possibly traffic or parking trouble (as was reported by many on social media after the run).

Minutes ticked by, a colleague of previous company spotted me, excitement gripped and pushed many congregating near door. Stand by stand we were let through, overwhelming crowd trying to gain foot and/or avoid injury. Carl Lewis, John Abraham, Puneeth, etc encouraged us along with other celebrities and volunteers, not to forget the music.

As well documented in many blogs as well as event booklet, there were runners trying to cut through slow runners (relatively speaking), running zig zag and using sidewalk. I had very less trouble in maintaining my steady jogging pace though. So many volunteers lining up on both sides of the road with wonderful and creative posters, not to forget their vocal support too. Few of them were family/friends to take snap of their beloved ones.

The first water station was after 1 km, very few rushing for bottles. But already some resorted to walking. First 2 kms being warm-up, I was feeling good and somehow a thought formed to finish first 5 km without break and refreshment. With arms paining in usual bent position running, I sometimes let them drop besides the hip - definitely helped alleviate the pain. Around 3 km mark, there were already top runners going past 5 km mark on the other side of the road. Checked time on phone - doing good at around 20 minutes.

To pass time (and keep mind off pain), I consciously tried to observe oddities (to later write in this post) - bare foot running, some with shoes fitted in toe shapes, people sporting tees from previous events (like I was too :P), quotes, showing support for a social cause, etc. And then started surfing the other side to see if I could spot known faces (in all, spotted only one :D). The buzz at timing mats was maddening but manageable.

Slowly and steadily, my pace never changing much, 5 km came and went. I wasn't particularly thirsty, sweating but not copious and pain not enough to need a breather. So, I kept on. Next target being 6 km and then assess. I consciously tried to sport a smile - not only loosening up body but for various flashes and live telecast.

Side stitch on right side of body was beginning to show, but having read that it is not harmful, I tried to ignore it. I crossed 6 km, still not thirsty and after 7 I got hold of enerzal without breaking stride - more in anticipation that I gotta stop for a stretch with increasing pain. Noticed time on phone again - was doing good and about 20 minutes to finish around 70 minute mark. Orange peels placed were so inviting, but always crowded.

I have never run even 5 km stretch continuously in the past. I was surprising myself with the show and I developed a mantra by then - finish the race without stopping, without energy drink and possibly under 70 minutes (so that I move up the ladder - i.e 'D' group in next event :P). I was largely getting free space for my pace except for water logged areas where there was congestion. Loads of runners were walking.

Around 8 km mark, I decided, come what may, I am not stopping and was tossing the enerzal pack between hands. I waded through murky rain water instead of walking on footpath. Familiar Cubbon Park was subtle encouragement - even remembered that I had stopped for stretching last year. I even tried to increase pace a bit but resorted to normal pace soon after. Volunteers charged us up, free hi 5 (I didn't use though :P) and even runners saying a word or two to push harder.

After 9 km mark, two ambulance rushed past us, a small crowd ahead surrounding a fallen runner. Last year too there were such incidents, happens to even seasoned runners. But didn't see anyone stopping by medical stations placed at various intervals. Toilets were in demand though :P and noticed logical error in placing a station around 9 km mark with standard text of 'next one after 2 km' :D

After turning towards last stretch outside the stadium, I again lengthened my strides but couldn't keep up and jogged again. And finally arms raised at finish point - got confused with clock displayed, but that didn't matter much. Running without a break was the sweetest feeling.

Timing comparison :)

Post Race

Bottleneck of people walking towards refreshment and medal collection counter. Spotted a fellow trekker who had finished well ahead. I kept walking, allowing the body to cool. I got the items with only about 5 minute waiting - much much less compared to horrific experience last year. The organizers cross the medal circle on BIB to avoid someone getting things twice :P

Foot path were crowded with very less moving space, finding a spot to rest/stretch much harder. I did find one, stretched a little and then started walking to Residency road bus stop (as Corporation circle stop on Kasturba road was closed for traffic - last year's experience coming in handy again)

Only after reaching the bus stop, did I finally drink enerzal :P Stubbornness at its best :D Weird stomach feeling still persisted, dunno why yet :-/

Simple tips for beginners (advisory only)

1. Practice (atleast a month or two before race, keep rest days in between)
2. Cross training - walking, cycling, swimming, yoga, etc
3. Diet (check links below) - I still haven't figured out for myself though
4. Stretch after every run
5. Avoid short parks with sharp corner turns, I run on roads
6. Get professional help immediately if any sort of pain/discomfort persists long after a run

Good info on Running

• Runners for Life
• Nike Running club
• Post workout recipe
• Choosing Food
• Race day preparation
• Water storage in our body
• Timing chips