I was never physically gifted since young. I’ve passed my NAPFA no more than 3 times throughout my Secondary and JC life, with the 2.4km run being the main culprit. My usual 2.4 timing that time was 15 minutes, and I could never run more than 4 rounds on the track (i.e. run 4 rounds, walk 2 rounds).

Entering army served me some good, as it was during army when I improved my 2.4km to 11 minutes, though that was still a zillion times worse than most of my platoon mates. I gotta face it, I will never be able to run fast.  

My past post-army IPPT results (Click to enlarge)

After i ORDed, I once again turned into a slouch and never done a single run other than when taking the compulsory IPPT every year. Without fail, I would drag one of my buddies (who can do 9 min 30 sec for 2.4) along for IPPT and he would push me all the way to scrape through a pass. I literally almost fainted upon reaching the finishing point for both years (didn’t run 2.4 in 2006 ‘cos it rained, and hence failed).

Yesterday, I went for my IPPT again. Now that I’ve enjoyed running more than I used to, I also became a little more confident of passing my 2.4 without having to sprawl on the ground like a dead man after finishing the 6th lap. I did my first 4 stations with much ease, and next up was the run. 12 minutes to get Silver, and 13 minutes to pass. Armed with my dependable iPod shuffle and Polar watch, I did my 6 rounds with each round taking slightly less than 2 minutes. And this year, I finally managed to do it in 11:09 min and get a Silver! Not fast still, I know.. but at least I’m $200 richer.

This year’s. 

Now that I’m more physically active (I mean in terms of exercising la!), I’ve finally overcome the fear of taking IPPT, and become less dependent on my buddy to help me achieve a Pass by running and shouting "Quick la, no time already.. gonna fail!" at the same time.

Certainly looking forward to the next IPPT, where I can pocket another $200!!