Dear Friends
“Whenever I felt like giving up during a run, my coach will encourage me, and I would push myself. That’s how I relate my training to my life. Everyone faces difficulties, but it is how we persevere. When I push the kids during training, I think they can learn a lot from it,” says Thaslim, 20 years old who runs a weekly fitness programme for our children. Thaslim is convinced that he has benefitted much from the many sporting and personal development opportunities he had received and is simply doing his bit for others. This year, to inspire his charges he decided to participate in Charity Bike ‘n’ Blade 2018 which is a 310Km ride from Seremban to Muar in Malaysia from Friday, 14th to Sunday, 16th September. To join the event, riders raise a minimum of $1800 that will benefit the Salvation Army Peacehaven Nursing Home and Beyond Social Services.
Mike has been involved with Charity Bike ‘n’ Blade for the past 13 years in various capacities. While he was initially just a rider, he became a member of the organizing committee helping with all aspects of the event but this year, being Thaslim’s coach is yet another new role. “I remember how others took the effort to help me when I first started long distance road cycling some 13 years ago. Since, I have an extra bike, I thought I could help someone who seems so keen to get into the sport.” Mike has offered Thaslim the use of his first bike which has a special place in his heart. However, he is also pleased to see his first trusted servant serving the purpose of developing a young person.
“Aside from training sessions cancelled because of heavy rain and work-related travel, the training has progressed really well I think,” Mike who is a corporate legal counsel reflected. “Thaslim is a fast learner and already has the fitness of a seasoned runner. He needs to strengthen his handling, develop specific muscles, adhere to the ethics of group cycling and to chalk up road time. All these I believe he can do if not for his biggest challenge – ‘Time!’ As a full-time student with a heavy commitment to community service and his family, committing to such a long road trip as a first attempt is difficult.”
Thaslim agrees with Mike but explains. “I am the eldest in the family and so I need to set a good example for my siblings and to help with the family budget. I know it is not the same but my part-time job as delivery-man on a bicycle is also part of my training routine.” Nonetheless, he is more than aware that to deliver on his promise of completing the 310km ride, he must make time on Sundays with Mike.
Charity Bike ‘n’ Blade 2018 is still open for registration. If you or a friend would like to ride for 2 good causes, please sign up here. To support Thaslim’s fund-raising efforts visit Thaslim for Chairity Bike ‘n’ Blade 2018.
Enjoy your weekend.
Gerard
“It doesn’t matter who you are, where you come from. The ability to triumph begins with you. Always.” – Oprah Winfrey
