Happy New Year

As we enter the year 2012, let me be the first to tell you that it was a successful 2011 year for me. Despite the setbacks and hardships, I still consider myself blessed given the fact the blessings that God gave me.

It was a year of redemption. Who would ever forger year 2010 when I was crazy and immature about one girl that I was so desperate going after? Who would even dare to forget the stupid blog I wrote about Chinese traditions that up to present, I’m still regretful of what I did.

Past is past and we move on. Leave all those stuffs behind and face the present.

2011 was a year of first for me. Who can imagine that I, Michael Kent, once weighed 220 lbs, could complete my first full marathon? Not only that, I completed 3 full marathons for the year. Who can also forget the date that I qualified for Bataan Death March 102 kilometers? The e-mail that Mr. Jovenal Narcise sent made me jump for joy, knowing I’m about to face the biggest challenge of my life next year.

It was also a good year career wise as I gained another year of experience and lessons that will help me towards the future. Business wise, I gained the insights and know-how of business. I learned, faced and interact with people, socializing in business or meeting new friends, something I never done or minimal interaction dating back to year 2010.

Every year, we learned a lot. Every year, we matured and evolved into a better person. That’s exactly what I viewed myself. With 2012 on the fold, I expect a better year. Every year, we get to become smarter. We learned from our mistakes and experience.

2012, here I come. First on the list, Lord, help me conquer 102 kilometers. It’s a long shot but hopefully I can finish it.

To everyone, happy new year. Let’s face year 2012 with a bang. Cheers.

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Eco-Park & La Mesa Dam, Thank You

Several people have told me that you're not a marathoner unless you tried running Quezon City International Marathon(QCIM)'s 42.195 kilometer route.

So, me, being a competitive person, tried the marathon route of the said race.

It came to my conclusion that these people's observance of this route is correct. And i paid dearly by suffering to cramped up quads and legs.

But again, every challenge comes a deserving reward.

It all started from University of the Philippine campus. We ran almost 7 kilometers before heading out the long road of Commonwealth Avenue. It was cool and windy breeze since it was only 5am. We ran towards the highlight of the run, the Eco-Park and La Mesa Dam.

Highlight meaning it was the place i was looking forward to. This was the place where Ex number 2 and the one who replaced me met and began their clueless relationship. I was bitter on this place to the point that i joined the run because i want to see for myself what the so-called "romantic" place looked like. And it was pathetic and ugly. How corny can they get.

Then, we ran towards La Mesa Dam. Having no water station for almost 4 kilometers brings out the best in me. To make the route challenging, the road was uphill towards the end of La Mesa Dam. Cramps were knocking. Dehydration was my enemy and quitting became an option.

Despite that, i was able to leave the "romantic" place in good shape. The one that kept me going was simple. It was the corny place. As they say, when you run, try running with some anger to push you. And yet, it did push me.. it pushed me big time.

As i return back to Commonwealth turning to UP campus, i was never thankful enough because it was that time that my cramps settled down. The final 8 kilometers have never been forgiving yet it was my homecourt, it was UP campus. There, i stride despite tired and hungry. The heavy rain didn't made it easy for me.

"BDM! BDM!" These were the words that was scrolling through me head when i was about to cross the final stretch of the run. BDM is a reference to the killer Bataan Death March that i will run next March that covers 102 kilometers of running. Inspired to finish strong, i sprinted towards the pole with a large "FINISH" label.

Boom. I was able to finish the run with a respectable time of 4 hours 50 minutes.

The eco-park helped me. Never have i been inspired and determined to see the place that ruined my dream last year. It was that place where in I pushed myself to my limit just to see the place at the same time, to do my best in my 3rd full marathon.

To conclude, the reason why i joined the useless QCIM Marathon is just because of this f*cked up place.

In reward, i got my personal record in marathon that people are envy of. To have another consolation, i trained myself for my killer run next year.

Ka-Chow.

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Give Me A Break, Manny

When Manny Pacquiao fought Juan Manuel Marquez last November 13, their 3rd and once said final showdown between these two great fighters, many expected Pacquiao to go for the knockout. Even his own trainer, Freddy Roach, has declared that his boy will go for the kill given the fact that Marquez is now on his twilight of his boxing career.

Even boxing odds sported a Pacquiao K.O. victory as the favorite.

Not too fast, sir.

Marquez stood on the ring, with his 38 years old-body, fought tooth and nail with the world's best pound for pound in boxing. Pacquiao struggled to put his finishing moves, not even dominating the fight as Marquez backed up what boxing analysts describes him as the best counter-puncher in boxing. Truly, he gave our boxing southpaw icon a fight for his own life.

Clearly, from the fight standpoint, I believe that Marquez should have won. When the decision was handed down, i was disappointed knowing that Marquez gave it all yet he was still defeated by an unanimous decision. As similar to their last 2 fights, it all comes down to the final bell, final round and a final decision.

Before the fight, Marquez declared that he won both fights against Pacquiao. In retaliation, Pacquiao declared their third fight was personal. And it showed. He was never his normal self. He fought recklessly and almost paid dearly for it. Boxing analyst Ronnie Nathanielsz scored the fight for Marquez. Based from his experience and expertise, i believe in him that Marquez has won.

Again, this is his own opinion. Like he'd said, "We love Manny but tonight I beg to differ that Pacquiao won." It was his intuition and his belief that Marquez clearly beat Pacquiao. But again, the useless Congressman prefer to speak up, displaying more of his ignorance and stupidity by opening his mouth.

"We know that Nathanielsz is not a Filipino, adapted lang siya."

Is this the congressman that you voted for?

Whenever Pacquiao fights bad or even lose a fight, he always has his share of excuses. Either he lost weight, or boxing gloves is not comfortable to him(duh..) to the point that he even had to drag his wife, Jinkee to his long list of excuses. This time, he claimed that he was distracted with Jinkee becase those two were having a feud when the fight date arrived.

Come on.. this is a loser's excuse.

And clearly, Pacquiao just showed me what kind of loser he is.

No matter what will happen between the fight of Mayweather and Pacquiao, i'll root for Mayweather. I just got a change of heart. It is better to root for some coward rather than a winner but whines so much and has no respect for senior analysts.

Lastly, for those who voted Pacquiao to become a congressman, shame on you. Because you just put a crab-minded, stupid and worthless mammal into the office.

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My First Best Man Speech

Ladies and Gentlemen, good evening. I’m Michael Kent Reaport, the best man for the wedding tonight.

I’ve known Ben for more than 20 years. For those who didn’t know, Ben and I started as competitors during the Grade 1. We were battling for the coveted first honor of the class back then. Aral ako ng aral, pero wala talaga. Nerd as ever, Ben eventually won that award and I placed second.

From that time, little did I know that he would be my partner in crime for the next 22 years.

Both of us were born as the only son and we both share common interests growing up. Not having any brother both in our family makes it easier for the both of us to share common interests such as basketball, video games, etc. He was my little brother that we never both have. He was my close confidant to whom I can tell anything, and I do mean anything, which has provided me with ample material for my speech this evening.

Who would forget our countless hours of playing NBA video games? One whole night of sore eyes and even migraine are not enough to stop us from being competitive in the field of Playstation. He’s also a business minded who strive for the best business opportunity present out there. An awesome basketball player, minsan nga lang bwakaw. I should say and a true friend whom you can always depend on during the times of dispair and need.

Ben’s love life back then was, well to say the least the very least, was calm. Safe answer. But like a wind that whirls, his fate turned when he finally met Rachel.

They’ve now been together for a long time and I can’t think of a single couple more perfect for each other. She brings out the good side in him, which takes a lot of effort; in fact I’d say she’s made him a better person since they’ve been together. A classic example is that before when met, Ben was thrifty, matipid in other words… Nung naging sila, BARAT na!! Just kidding.

Best wishes Ben and Rachel. May you have many children, in case you do, please tell your children to call me ahya, not uncle.

I was present when Ben and Rachel finally became couples. I was there on their first couple date. I was present when Ben proposed to Rachel. I was also present on their engagement. Now, let me do the honor of having the toast to the newly weds, Benedick and Rachel.

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Let's Get It On!!

On the final day of MLB’s regular season, I was given a treat when I learned that the final playoff berth, which is the wild card is decided on the last game day. Who would ever thought that on a 162-game season schedule, the final drama would come down on the final playing date of the season?

4 teams, Boston Red Sox, Atlanta Braves, St. Louis Cardinals and Tampa Rays are slugging out for the final two-playoff berths at stake for each division.

For the Atlanta Braves, they have a 8 ½ game lead with just 3 weeks into the final homestretch only to blew these lead and lose to a heart breaking game against Philadelphia Phillies that led to their elimination. They were one out away from earning a playoff game against St. Louis Cardinals for the wild card berth, only to let star rookie closer Craig Kimbrel blew his third save for the month of September. To make things worse, they played their final home schedule against a fully-loaded Phillies lineup, in contrast of a luckless Astros for the Cardinals.

St. Louis Cardinals, despite amid speculation that star slugger Albert Pujols might leave the following year due to free agency, came back strong despite being behind by 8 ½ games in the wild card race. They won 18 out of 21 of their final games, with clutch performance from unknown heroes such as Ryan Theriot, Nick Punto and David Freese. Known for being a power loaded lineup which includes Furcal,Holliday,Pujols,Berkman and Molina plus the fact their pitching aces of Carpenter, Lohse and Wainwright are locked in to shut down offenses. Who would have thought of them being down that big in the month of September? Maybe they deserved the challenge to enter postseason, the hard way.

Red Sox, Red Sox. What can I say? They were leading their division at early August only to fade down the wining stretch of the season. Lineup that consists of speedsters Jacoby Ellisbury and Carl Crawford, power hitters Youlkis, Adrian Gonzales, David Ortiz and Dustin Pedrioa. Certainly, this lineup is built to win the World Series. The pitching is also amazing, with Jon Lester, John Lackey,Tim Wakefield and Josh Becket are enough to scare the opponents with their nasty curveballs and fastballs. But, as they say, jinx is jinx. Carl Crawford, their 142-million outfielder was a bust that is comparable to Milton Bradley. Jon Lackey was also a waste of money as their 81 million pitcher pitched an ERA of above 4.0. Yankees’ GM Brian Cashmen seems to look like a genius after withdrawing his offer to Crawford.

AS for Tampa, who would ever though of this team entering the post season? They lost Matt Garza and Carlos Pena to Chicago Cubs. They lost their leader, Dioner Navarro to free agency. They lost their then-ace pitcher Scott Kazmir to the Angels. Is there anyone who could help that team enter the playoffs? Enter Evan Longoria. His walk-off homerun capped an epic 7-0 come from behind victory over the Yankees, coupled with the loss of Red Sox to the Baltimore Orioles, sealed a series date with the Texas Rangers. Still surprised? You better be. Go get them, David Price.

MLB’s 2011 playoff promises to be action filled and drama pact. If regular season was not enough, wait for the postseason. Yankees-Tigers. A matchup of two aces in Sabathia and Verlander. Rays-Rangers, which features a rematch between sluggers Josh Hamilton and Evan Longoria. On the other division, Phillies go up against a rejuvenated Cardinals while Brewers take a from last-to-first team in Arizona Diamondbacks.

Hang on to your seats folks. This year’s playoffs are definitely worth watching. Even though my beloved Cubs was eliminated, I’ll still watch and cheer for one team.. and that is the Tampa Bay Rays.

For all the highlight, log in to www.mlb.com.

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The AXN Challenge 2011: My Personal Experience

When I first heard of AXN’s challenge run, I already thought of passing up the run because for once, I want to become a race photographer.

But thanks to peer pressure, they were able to force me to run in this event under the 21K category.

Bad decision for me, though. The route almost ruined my life.

Click the link to see the route map: http://www.pinoyfitness.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/axn-run-philippines-2011-21k-map.jpg

It was the toughest 21K I’ve ever run since last year’s Quezon City International Marathon(QCIM). The route was unbelievable; imagine 4 flyovers and one deadly uphill towards Julia Vargas Avenue up to the finish line.

To make things worse, I did not even bother to train for this run. Ever since my birthday marathon run July 31,2011, I trained just twice. Not to mention I gained 12 lbs in just 1 month, which clearly affects your running method.

I started strong on the first 7 kilometers. I was able to keep my pace running towards the first flyover. I was so satisfied that I tried running a bit faster. That time, I was able to cope up with my faster running mates.

But there goes a saying, it’s not how you start strong, it’s how you finish strongly.

Whoops. There goes the culprit.

It was along 11^th kilometer on the E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave that I felt a pain in my back. After I crossed the second flyover, the pain was no longer bearable. I was having a hard time running especially when it’s uphill because the pain in your lower back drags you down. At that time, I even thought of giving up by riding on the ambulance all the way back to finish line. To make things worse, the tunnel that is below the flyover that leads you to Katipunan has a very foul odor.

From there, I slowly worked my way up. From Libis all the way back to Ortigas, I alternated running and walking, hoping that the Galloway method of running could at least help me release the tension. I was fortunate that their water station was properly placed. It was like every 1.5 kilometer, there’s a hydration booth. I was able to catch some of my breath and dehydration from 100 plus but it doesn’t take away the pain in my back. I was even seen most of the time crunching down, holding both of my hands to my knees, and stretching my back hoping that the pain would diminish.

Then I finally saw the 19^th kilometer marker. From there, I started smiling, knowing around 15 minutes; my stupid decision to test the challenge is nearing to an end.

It was never looked easy as it seems.

It was a very steep uphill towards Ortigas. From there, I decided to just walk and never even bothered to jog nor run.

As I walked all my way up to the very steep uphill of Julia Vargas, I saw a signed of relief. From that street, the next turn is the finish line. I was so jubilant that I tried to run as fast as I could just to finish this hell-like adventure.

But again, my back would not just let me do the easy way.

When I stepped the final step of the finish line, the first word that came out of my mouth was “Shit”.

But still, it was fulfilling to complete this run. Even though I clocked badly, 2 hours 52 minutes, by the way is my personal worse when it comes to 21K, I was happy that I was able to place my time under 3 hours given my circumstances.

Nonetheless, the race was a success. I was able to run with my gym mates and running mates through out this run. Their finisher shirt and medal was so remarkable, that the moment I saw these items, it made me proud of what I’ve gone through. All the pain, sweat and time exerted for the run was worth it.

With this AXN run, runners were given a treat of a lifetime. From the adventurous routine with several uphill, flyovers and foul odor tunnel, to the numerous photographers who were there to share some limelight by taking every runners picture to ease the pain, up to the water station and lastly up to their finishers kit, it was a well organized run. Runners who are longing for new route and adventure have finally found themselves one in this run.

AXN’s tagline for this run was perfectly fit to the theme of the run, AXN Challenge run: I took the challenge. Yes, I did take the challenge and I almost paid for it. No thanks to my aching back and knee swelling. To those finishers, job well done. To those who were fetched due to cut-off, better luck next time and of course job well done for taking part the most challenging 21K and we know we did your best, unfortunately, these stuffs do happen.

I’m outta here. Gotta train for my next run, which is Manila International Marathon which happens this coming Sunday. Hoping my next run will be successful after 2 sub-par performances.

Again, it’s another big IF.. a humongous big which translates how hard or complicated for me to complete another successful run.

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8 Pack-Abs.. I Wish...

I was reading my daily newspaper, which is Philippine Daily Inquirer then something caught my eye. I catch a glimpse and it surprises me to see the headline stated on the front page under the sub news of lifestyle.

“The Man With a Killer Eight-Pack Abs”. Turn to Lifestyle, D-1.

So, being a dummy, I turned the page to D-1 hoping that the news was true enough. It was. And upon reading the article, it amazes me and I just want to share some portions of what I learned from the column.

According to Marge Enriquez, the contributor of the column of Inquirer on what I was reading, the guy with an 8 pack abs can be seen on the billboards of Edsa, a model for Hang ten. His name was Adbel Abdelkader.

As I was reading the column, I tried to get some tips (since I was dreaming of having such abs…) on how he was able to do what others deemed as impossible. His story was simple. He was skinny back then. Then, his personal trainer taught him the four basic principles of fitness: balanced diet, adequate rest, correct workout and hydration.

It’s easier said than done.

He works out 5 hours a day (so much for work, the guy’s must be a bum). He performs 90 minutes of cardiovascular exercises in the morning: 20 minutes each of spinning, running and elliptical; and 40 minutes of abdominal exercises such as leg lifts and crunches.

Ouch.

But what amazes me is that instead of traditional repetitions and numerous sets, he performs these until muscle failure, meaning he does every routine with an unexpected length of time or until the felt so much pain from the muscle. For example, he holds the plank for four and a half minutes! 4 minutes! 1 minute is already so hard for me, yet he could quadruple what I can do (well, there’s no surprise for that. Who am I anyway?).

His abdominal workouts are the same usual abs programs such as knee raise, bicycle crunch, V-sit, etc. But again, what makes these more special is that he performs these until muscle failure… No standard repetitions, no number of sets required. Only until he feel such pain that he cannot continue before he stops.

Lastly, he maintains a healthy diet. He starts a day with green tea, peppermint and ginseng, which burns fats and clean the system. He takes hard-core muscle tech for breakfast and dinner and his tea between meals.

Clearly, to have these, you’ve got to be disciplined. Disciplined enough to resist any kind of temptation or whatsoever.

I’ve been hitting the gym for the past 3 years. Since I’m allergic to Whey Protein, I substitute it with Soya Milk, Enervon HP and Egg whites. Some say I gained muscles or bulk (some only.. hope it’s true). I ran twice a week, with a minimum of 10 kilometers per week. Yet, makes me wonder, I’m doing what this clown is doing(well, not all), yet my abs is still round.

Now I get it.. Never eat too much.. especially when on a date. Well, there’s the culprit. I just ate too much. Nonetheless, this column inspired the that I once-thought it was impossible is actually possible although it takes guts and discipline. The column brings out my fighting spirit of trying to attain what I just read even though we know it's a long shot.

This column is best suited for people who wanna lose weight or other gym freaks who are conscious when it comes to their belly and abs. It may also help who are lazy enough to move their lazy asses to exercise or even hit the gym.

See the link below. Be ready to be inspired and be wowed.

http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/13703/the-man-with-the-killer-eight-pack-abs

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A Final Legacy

 

As I opened my twitter page, I was surprised at the first news feed that was displayed. It was a tweet from Patricia Hizon that caught my attention. It was the most surprising 7 words that I had read from twitter throughout the week.

“Tim Cone and Alaska Aces parted ways”

Wow.

A legacy has finally come to an end.

I started watching basketball at the age of 7. It was that time I was an avid fan of San Miguel Beer. During the 90’s, I used to cry whenever San Miguel loses to their archrival team. It was also that time I witnessed a PBA team achieved a Grand Slam. And their victim, it was San Miguel.

Guess, which team that, was? It was Alaska.

Their coach? The Legendary Tim Cone.

During those days, I hate that guy. I hate his guts. I hate everything he brings to Alaska. I hate how he developed Johnny Abarrientos,Lastimosa,Hawkins and even Juinio to their full potential and in return, beating my favorite team to the ground. But as years go by, I started to admire his coaching skills. Imagine, after all these years, his most dangerous weapon for the past 2 decades still lives on. And that is his triangle offense.

Now, he’s gone.

Several players owe their big break to Tim Cone. Cone molded Abarrientos into the best point guard of the league, good enough to almost play in the NBA. Lastimosa and Hawkins shined under Cone for numerous years. Willie Miller, coming from MBA, was developed by Cone into a superstar. Kenneth Duremdes, the seldom used forward from Pop Cola, was traded to Alaska and instantly, he became “Captain Marbel” under Cone. Jeffrey Cariaso, who was a bench warmer during his time with Mobiline, became a key cog during the grand slam year of Alaska. And who would forget just recently, LA Tenorio, Cyrus Baguio and Joe De Vance earned a humongous paycheck, thanks particularly to the big break Tim Cone gave them.

Who in the history of PBA coaches has ever done this? Not even the great Baby Dalupan or the gay Chot Reyes.

As they say, Phil Jackson walked away. Tim Cone followed him. But there is one big difference between these two. Cone only coached ONE team. Phil Jackson needed two teams, two great shooting guard and two big men to win championships (MJ-Kobe,Shaq-Gasol).

For Cone, all he needed was 2 talented point guards in two decades to win multiple championships. It was Abarrientos and Tenorio.

See the difference between a born winner by staying with one team and a trying hard to be a winner by joining elite teams?

Definitely, Cone will be missed. His tantrums on the court will surely be reminisced. His post game conference with his Tagalog slang will always be remembered. His coaching phrase of “all right” will be look out by the players. And his coaching legacy will remain forever.

I was fortunate enough that my final game that I watched live in the PBA was an Alaska game, a semis game against Rain or Shine. I sat behind the bench of Alaska. On my outmost right were Ria Tanjuatco Trillo and the daughters of Jolas. It was that time I was lucky enough to hear the coaching styles of Cone. It was an amazing experience.

If only I know that it would be that game that I would last see him coach in person, then I might get his autograph.

One thing’s for sure. PBA was different for the past 22 years with Tim Cone.

And believe me, PBA will not be the same this coming season. For a good man has walked away from the sport and a franchise, a franchise that drove him away thanks to their gay executive Joaqui Trillo.

Maybe Trillo and Pangilinan must hang out.. At their favorite hang out place… a gay bar.

Care to join, Gary Valenciano?

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A Fitting Ending

When i first heard that it would be Petron(formerly San Miguel) who would square off with Talk and Text in the season ender finals, it was one simple thing that caught through my mind.

A sweep.

Not for Petron. I was pretty darn sure that Talk and Text would claim glory and cement itself as one of the elite franchise by winning a rare Grand Slam. I was so certain that the loaded lineup of TNT would simply negate the remaining offensive firepower of Petron.

Bilog ang bola. This is what we Filipinos used to say when it comes to the sport of basketball.

And Game one was a perfect reminder for the fans who doubted Petron could pull it through.

A game winning buzzer beater was all it takes for Petron to gain the confidence in this finals, knowing they could beat a fully loaded lineup of TNT despite missing 4 key players. Towards the finals, it was their own heart and willingness that pushed this team to greatness.

No Washington. No Rabeh. No Joseph Yeo and no Lordy Tugade. Yet, they were able to net one big fish with their scintillating defense.

Sure, Chot Reyes can blame the injuries of his key players. Well, if reality is still sleeping with him, Petron played just 10 men in the decisive Game 7. What makes it more deflating is that Petron missed 3 of their first 5 players, yet he has the nerve of saying "Fatigue and injuries are starting to take it's toll".

It was a pretty lame excuse for a lame coach such as Reyes.

Anthony Grundy showed the fans of SMB or Petron that there is an import or a wingman who can dominate games outside of Lamont Strothers. Strothers, who guided SMB to 5 championships during the early 2000, was a scoring machine and has that patented step back jumpshot that defenders find it impossible to defend.

Grundy? He's just a all around player.

Norming close to a triple double, Grundy knocked down shots after shots when it mattered most. He made the perfect plays/pass when his team needed it the most. Lastly, he churned out an all-around performance in the biggest game of his early PBA career.

Jimmy Alapag might won the most controversial MVP award in the history of the PBA but the so-called MVP cannot carry his team when it mattered most. He was co-finals MVP with Castro duting the Philippine and commissioners cup. But when Castro went down, the boyfriend of the flirt Manny Pangilinan was no where to be found.

Mighty mouse?! Come on... Chicken would be nice.

Petron is rebuilding, and what a perfect way to rebuild a team by winning a title prior to Philippine cup. Sure, TNT fans can say it was Grundy that made things possible for Petron. But the improved play of Miranda, Cabagnot and especially Santos is a clear sign that Petron is on the right direction.

With the perfect coach and the perfect code, SMB franchise will no longer wait that long to regain glory. This title was the fitting ending for a perfect ballclub that remain upbeat despite what storm or troubles might hit them.

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F*cked Up

Have you ever felt how you are being compared to someone who is better than you? Have you ever felt the humiliation once you're own father starts comparing you to his friend's son who has contributed more than you? Have you ever felt that deep-shit feeling that all you can say is that "Sorry, eto lang kaya ng anak mo".

Lately, I had. Now, I'm totally pissed off.

With this, all of your movements are monitored. Every mistakes you've done is like the end of the world. All your accomplishments meanwhile, goes unnoticed. For every thing that i enjoyed doing, there's a corresponding reaction. For every thing that helped me at least remove stress from my everyday busy work has a price and that is negative remarks. Things such as basketball,gym,night outs, these things that i must be allowed to do given my age yet i felt like a little child trying to ask for permission to do so.

Let's face the fact that I'm getting older. These stuffs are once suited for younger age. Besides, at my age, my goals are different compared before. Expanding business and my horizons as well are my primary concerns. But for the love of God, can't i take a break for just a single fucking day?!

Focus on business, this is what my father always tell me and this is what I'm currently doing yet for once, taking a rest is a sin. Watching basketball on a given night is a sin. Having a night-out for a single night a week is a sin, this is not even on a weekly basis. "Wala kwenta ginagawa mo. Mag hanap ka ng supplier sa gabi." This is the line that has been going through my head every time i do somethings that would release my tension.

Even God rested on the 7th day He created the Earth. Yet, I'm not God nor even religious and yet he expects me to work. Superman has his kryptonite and I'm not Superman. I get fucking tired too.

Which led me dating back September 2010 when I blogged I hoped I'm not a Chinese. Now, I'm reviving it all again. How I wished I was not born a Chinese, born as the only son which led to ultimate pressure. Fuck those Chinese beliefs that says Chinese son, especially only son must continue their family's legacy. I've lost a lot, thanks to these stupid traditions, yet here i am, doing everything just to make my family proud of me yet it's not enough.

Now, I'm tired.

To this son of my father's friend who thinks he is way better than anyone, i leave this one simple message. I'll be better than you. For a guy who kept on trying to pry clients away from us, believe me, I'll be way better than you. You're facing a very confident man and you've faced the wrong guy.

I've been the blacksheep of the family for the past 3 years. At first, i regret making those mistakes. Now? I can't blame myself for doing so. Frustrations and anger has finally lit up my emotional side knowing I've done a pretty solid job at our business. I know I've given my best yet the best isn't good enough. If adding 3 or more major client to the business in just a single year is not enough, than what is the definition of enough? I'm doing what a traditional Chinese son, yet my reward is criticism.

Fucked up, pissed off, what ever you want to call it. Michael Kent has enough.

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Loser As Always

Dwyane Wade was walking with Lebron James prior to Game 6 when he started to plant a jab to Dirk Nowitzki.

“Did you hear me cough? I think I’m going to be sick” Wade said in mockery of Nowitzki who played with a flu during Game 5 and ended up coughing and sniffing during the post-game conference of that said game.

In response, Lebron coughed.

Little did he knew, that he not only coughed, he also choked.

Lebron choked. What else is new?

Dallas used this jab as their motivation, a motivation to bring down a once-said empire that is about to rise. Their aging Big 3 in Nowitzki,Terry and Kidd outplayed the young and fearless but choking Big 3 of South Beach in Wade, Lebron and Bosh. That is if we’re still considering James as a part of that trio after playing like a lost soul during the finals.

He scored a TOTAL of 11 points in the fourth quarter in the first 5 games of series. That is a stat line comparable to Brian Cardinal. It’s an average of 2.5 points per game scored in the payoff period. To make matters worst, the self-proclaimed king just scored a TOTAL of 2 points in Games 1-5 in less than 5 minutes of the fourth quarter when the game is on the line.

Wow.

You call this guy the heir apparent of Jordan? Come on… Stop pulling my leg. It’s not even close.

He called himself the King? King of choker and cowardly probably.

Scottie Pippen is saying that Lebron might be better than MJ. Now after the finals, Pippen is looking like a dumb ass for saying those words. Even Charles Barkley are laughing at the words of the once great sidekick of Michael Jordan.

Lebron will never be Jordan. He is trying so hard to win a title that he has to play with Wade and Bosh in order to have another shot at the title, which he eventually choked. He was the missing link of Miami. He was never the same monster player who used to dominate the game during the times he was in Cleveland. He never attempted nor tried to take over the game because he knows Miami will always be Dwayne Wade’s team. His image will forever be fortified as the one who used to choke and quit when the stakes of the game was this high no matter which superstars he used to play with.

For God’s sake, he even played with a dominant big man who recently retired in Shaq, yet he is still ring less.

Nowitzki on the other side played a hell of a post season. Imagine going through Portland(the team with the highest probability of an upset during the first round), then sweeping the highly touted ego of Kobe Bryant and the rest of the aging Lakers and defeating the ball hog Russell Westbrook and the rest of Oklahoma Thunders.

Came finals, they were never given a chance. Odds picked Miami in 5 or 6. Not even in Yahoo prediction did it ever occur that Mavs would win in 6.

Whoops.

In return, it was a fitting Cinderella story ending for Jason Kidd, who at age 38 finally won a ring after 2 failure trips in the finals during his time in New Jersey.

Dan Gilbert twitted a shot at Lebron, “THERE IS NO SHORTCUT,NONE”. It was true. This was karma, a karma that he initiated once he muttered the words “I’ll take my talents to South Beach”. It was his destiny to lose 3 straight games despite being up 2-1 and has momentum towards Game 4. It was his talents that propelled Mavericks to their first ever title.. It was his choking talents that brought Miami to their doom..

As Chris Bosh said during the off-season, “We can win multiple championships if we just do it well on the offensive and defensive end”. They can win multiple championships if they trade away choker Lebron and the bad luck of Zydrunas Ilgauskas.

Imagine how Cleveland is rocking at this time. From a first place team to a lottery team, it hurts. But to see your once hero who turned his back on the city and instantly became the biggest villain in sports history to fail in his bid for his first championship ring through a cowardly act? Priceless… simply priceless…

JJ Barea, Brian Cardinal and even Deshawn Stevenson now each have a ring.

Lebron James?

None. Zero. Nada. In Tagalog, bokya.

Loving it folks…loving it big time…

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Wake Up... Inday....

Survey says that we people tend to do at least one stupid stuff in our lives that in the end, we will fully regret it.

People says that when people get heart broken or fallen deeply in love, we usually do something stupid or weird that we don't even care the outcome just so as long as we can do that certain something.

Don’t worry folks. This time, it’s not for me.

It’s for a friend/contact on my facebook who kept on posting annoying status messages.

We all know facebook has been one of our outlets for venting out emotions. It’s our source of letting people know how we feel, even for a short period of time.

But for the love of God, it’s been like 6 to 8 months of posting nonsense heart-broken status. It even came at one point that I was so disgusted on her status that I almost badmouthed her in front of facebook.

Sure, you got heartbroken but somehow move on. It’s almost been a year yet here she is, consistently posting useless stuff about herself and her ex on facebook. She kept on posting negative stuffs such as self defense, love, etc etc.(yawn….) Can’t she imagine what people would think of her every time she post these kinds of stuffs? Is she that stupid enough not to think that she is making a fool out of herself every time she post the “SHARE” button on facebook wall?

I’m speaking through experience here. Last year, I was also heartbroken and I was stupid enough to post negative stuffs in facebook for 2 months. There, I learned my lesson and reality caught up with me. Now, my friends and I are just laughing at what I did last year. As the saying goes, “tatawanan mo din yan balang araw” and yet I did.

“Breakup leads us a step closer to meeting the right one for us.” This is one quote that I can remember my ex posted on her facebook wall. This quote is applicable to my contact in facebook. Everything happens for a reason, so there is a reason for breaking up with your past. Just one thing, don’t make a fool out of yourself in a social network such as facebook.

Another lesson I learned from my past is that time heals everything. 2008, it took me 2 years to move on from a certain CKSC girl. 2 years after, I broke up with my ex and it only took me 3 months to recuperate. See where I’m going?

Keep yourself busy instead of posting stupid stuffs on facebook. Block him from your FB page, go to gym or go to sleep. Refrain yourself from posting messages about yourself or about love or anything. For short, don’t post anything because clearly, you looked like an escaped retarded from mental hospital with the way you’re posting recently.

To make things worse, your friends even supported you. “That’s my girl” an anonymous friend quoted. What the hell?!

A friendly advice, move on and forget about your ex. There are a lot of fishes in the ocean. There’s a lot of guy in this universe that you don’t have to stick to that one because clearly, he’s probably laughing at you right now. Enjoy life and try to recover yourself because clearly, you’re a mess on facebook network.

And if you continued the way you’re posting… God have mercy on what people would think of you..

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A Fallen Dynasty

For the past 2 NBA seasons, Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as the top team by winning back to back titles. This prompted talks of Lakers dynasty built around Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol. With their head coach a shoo-in for Hall of fame in Phil Jackson, winning 3-peat seems easier than everyone thought.

Not this year though...

They're praying for their dear lives in this year's playoffs.

They're facing Dallas Mavericks, a team that was severely haunted by the ghosts of their finals match up in 2006 when they blew an impeccable 2-0 lead against Miami Heat A team that was included in the futility club when they were eliminated by a number 8 seed team in Golden State when they were seeded number one in 2007 playoffs.

Now, Kobe is claiming they're still going to win the series despite down 3-0.

"I don't know. I'm just nuts". Kobe said.

Nuts it is. This is not confidence. This is plain nuts.

Michael Jordan cemented his legacy with 6 championships with the Bulls. Kobe is trying so hard that he can't even win a title on his own. Jordan has Pippen but never had a great supporting cast. Kobe meanwhile, must have a dominant big man in order to win one. Kobe is pretending to be Jordan that he is trying to out-do his Royal Airness by trying to overcome a 3-0 deficit, something Jordan has done in a modest situation being down 2-0 against New York Knicks dating back year 1994.

Lakers dynasty is falling and their once famous hall of fame coach could end his coaching career by being swept, something he never experienced in his whole career. Kobe is starting to show signs of wear and tear and Gasol has become a feminine figure in the Lakers lineup by playing soft.

As the slogan says, all good things must come to an end.

Jinno Rufino's boyfriends are about to lose... To lose against a squad hungry to reclaim glory after 2 turmoils experience in the playoffs.

The time to knock off Kobe and the rest of the gang is now shaping up.

The last free fall of Kobe and Phil Jackson is on the way. Not even destiny could save Kobe Bryant on this one.

And it doesn't even take a genius to figure one out.

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It Ain't Over...

As i went to the gym to work out, a personal trainer told me that i have to gain more pounds to look better. Since it was a trainer, i gave it an option and asked what i have to do to gain more.

Simple. Heavy Lifting, eat more which means no diet and lastly, stop running.

The first two things can be tolerable. But giving up running? Hell no.

Why would i give up the sport that helped me move on from one of the most forgettable moments in my life? Why would i give up one thing that i know i finally made the 2 most important persons in my life proud of me after all these years? Lastly, why would i quit on the sport that pushed and defied my limits to achieve greatness?

In 26 years of my existence, my parents labeled me as a black-sheep of the family. I never made them proud. To add fuel to the fire, i had a Filipina girlfriend for a year, something our tradition despise and i was never proud of that. 3 years ago, i left our family business because i rebelled against my parents for a girl that they don't approve, again something that I'm not proud of.

Then came February 6,2011. That day changed everything.

I completed my first ever full marathon. My father, who used to despised me especially during the time i was with someone, smiled and began telling all his friends of what his only son has accomplished. I received calls from his friends telling me that my father was proud of what I've done. It was my father who was once a runner, told me to not run a full marathon because it takes years of practice to complete one. I defied his order and completed a marathon in just 11 months of training.

This was his legacy. And now, his only son who let him down for the past 26 years, is bouncing back in a big way to continue his legacy.

Just for once, to have my parents smile, knowing that I've done something good is a great feeling. To be a role model, again just for once to my relatives and friends is priceless.

And now, the trainer is telling me to stop running? Is it really worth to give up what i have accomplished in exchange for a measly pounds or even fat?

A runner will always be runner. People can run and call themselves runner but not everyone has the desire,grit and determination to undergo a hell-like training to achieve something. It was only this sport, not even basketball, has pushed me to my very limit.

It ain't over. People were wondering why i'm not running long distance runs after i completed a 42k. Friends were thinking that I'm retiring from the sport. Well, I'm not. I'm still savoring the vacation after a full year of rigid training.

Last year, i completed all the obstacle. This year, it's about time to get even better.

Run Mike Run. This is one slogan my friend advised me to do. This is one slogan that i would keep in my head for a long time. As long as i have 2 working legs and knees, this runner would not stop from achieving greatness...

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Melo, Better Known As Elmo

When Carmelo Anthony was traded to the New York Knicks together with Chauncey Billups, the entire town of New York was buzzing with confidence knowing they have landed a high-profile player that could make their under-achieving team succeed and finally make the playoffs after countless disappointed seasons.

Denver meanwhile, was in sort of a rebuilding mode after dumping their once franchise player and acquired young players in hopes they could develop into superstars in the future.

Well folks, it's the other way around.

Since the trade, New York is just 7-9, seventh in the east.

As for Denver, whopping 10-4 and currently sits fifth among the tough Western conference.

The arrival of Anthony in New York simply means one thing, another bonehead has come to ruin the Knicks. After Isiah Thomas nearly destroyed the image of the Knicks by paying stupid players with stupid contracts such as Eddy Curry, Al Harrington and Stephon Marbury, here they are again acquiring another ball hog in Carmelo Anthony, hoping and praying that he and Stoudemire, both shot-first player could co-exist.

Donnie Walsh has done what other GM's of Knicks have ever done, and that is reviving the Knicks into a playoff-contender coming into this season. He acquired cocky Amare and developed players such as Wilson Chandler, Gallinari, Turiaf, Sean Williams and Landry Fields. When these players finally came out of their shell and showed what they could do, Walsh used these players as trade bait to acquire Anthony and Billups.

As for Denver, analyst were saying that this team is built for lottery and needs years to finally develop into a playoff team. Well, they have been proving critics wrong. With fluent ball movement and more intact defense, Nuggets have finally found the winning formula that they have been seeking since Anthony was with them. To make the description short, Nuggets simply became a better team without Anthony.

Now, Anthony is using another lame excuse as to why they are struggling. According to Anthony, the Knicks would be a powerful team in 2011-2012 season. It takes at least one year for one team to jell with their new players.

If that's the case, why don't he ask Denver because it only took them 14 games or less to finally understand their roles.

New York needs Carmelo to be their savior but yet, he is now a pain in the ass. New York asked him to complement Amare for points, yet he is now complementing him for missed shots. Better yet, he adds woes to the Knicks for being one of the most bone-headed player in team history.

Anthony came to a town where winning was important. If he keeps on with his attitude, him dream of playing for New York will soon be crushed and he might end up being run out of town. As for his nickname, Melo, with his current play, it's better to call him Elmo... until he finally figures out what is wrong with him and the team.

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Sore Losers...

For the past 2 games of PBA finals, Talk n Text showed me what they really are.

Sore losers.

From their top GAY executive boss, Manny Pangilinan up to the feminine look dresser in their coach Chot Reyes and even up to their very last player on their roster named Emerson Oreta, Talk n Text simply can’t take losing.

Slowly but surely, this team is slowly becoming a Yeng Guiao team.. Whenever you can’t win a ballgame, try hurting the opponent’s players.

A very disgusting act from a team handled by a person with a feminine touch that goes by the initial MVP.

San Miguel turned the clock around, based from games 3 and 4. Their 2 veterans, Olsen Racela and Danny Ildefonso, who won multiple championships together during the past decade and now in their twilight of their careers, showed what they are really made of. It came as a surprised as it never occurred to each and every PBA fans that these 2 players will be the one who would give SMB a big lift. These 2 are supposed to be backups, but simply showed they still have pride left in their quest for one more championship.

Not even Talk n Text odds could save them in Game 4 as odd makers gave TNT a merely +3.5. SMB eventually won by 4 points, thanks to the free throws of Racela.

Now it all boils down to a best of three affair. With the momentum clearly on SMB side, TNT has to wonder how to beat the stingy defense of an older team in SMB. I remembered Quinito Henson even said before Game one that TNT is a lot more agile, quicker and younger that these are the main problems of SMB.

Well, for a person that is used to be called “The Dean”, you don’t have the smarts to even think about this one.

Defense wins championships. TNT’s main problem is their attitude.

If SMB wins this championship, it would be a fairy tale ending for Racela as he will end his career on a high note. In addition to J-Wash and Arwind, these will be their first championship in their young career. And if SMB wins this championship, I wonder how will MVP react to the fact they just blew a 2-0 lead in a short Best of 7 series.

This is the time for MVP’s boyfriend in Jimmy Alapag to step up. This is also the time wherein TNT needed their kargador/promdi/swangit look of Jason Castro. This is the perfect time to tell Ali Peek to stop using steroids and concentrate on the finals.

Better yet, this is the perfect scenario for MVP to go to a gaybar to chill because clearly, SMB is out to regain a legacy that they’ve once lost.

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