You know, there’s something about mountains. They just stand there, silently calling our names, promising adventure, breathtaking views, and… well, a whole lot of sweat and pain. As a runner, especially one who keeps finding himself tackling ultra trails, I’ve often asked myself, "Why do I do these things? Ngapain siiih… mending tidur!! 😴" Honestly, who needs to stumble through a forest at 2 AM, seeing only a tiny circle of light from a headlamp, when a warm bed is calling?
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| Semarang Mountain Race 2025 |
But then I remember. That feeling when you push past what you thought was your limit. The incredible quiet of the pre-dawn trails. The wild, untamed beauty. And the simple truth that 100K training (or any serious training, for that matter) doesn’t happen on the couch. So, we embrace the "suck," we chase those distant peaks, and we sign up for races like the Semarang Mountain Race.
For me, the Semarang Mountain Race 50K wasn't just another dot on the calendar. It was my 5th ultra trail race and my second venture into the enigmatic, rock-and-root-filled world of night ultras, right after the epic CTC 80K. It’s an adventure that promises stunning natural trails, enchanting forests, and those gloriously "sadistic" inclines that make you question all your life choices – but in a good way, I promise!
Even Lunacy Needs a Plan
Now, some folks just run. They go with the flow, feel the vibe, and conquer the mountain with pure heart. And I admire that! But for me, with a tech background and a brain that loves a good puzzle, I can’t help but get a little… strategic. Especially with the experience of those previous ultras under my belt. So, for my SMR 50K, I decided to try something different, something a bit Anggriawan-style: I used AI to craft my race strategy.
I fed the GPX file of the course into Google Gemini, turning raw data into actionable insights. It was like having a super-smart assistant who helped me dissect the beast. To get this level of detail, I crafted a prompt for Google Gemini, something like this:
Conduct in-depth analysis about this 50K ultra trail race route of Semarang Mountain Race 2025. Flag off is on Saturday, 12 April 2025, 22:00. My target is 14 hours, under COT of 16 hours. Show your strategy in table format with the following columns: Segment (From -> To), Distance, KM Start, KM End, Elevation Gain, Elevation Loss, Terrain Strategy, Target Split, Cumulative Time, Target Arrival Time, RPE, HR Zone, Fueling Tips.
This allowed me to break down the 50K course into smaller, manageable parts, meticulously researching each section – how steep it was, the type of terrain, any technical bits. Then, the AI helped me create a precise pacing strategy. Not just for a perfect, sunny day, but also for those inevitable moments when the weather gods decide to throw a tantrum. Because a good plan accounts for everything, even the universe's whims!
And the result? I’m incredibly happy to say that I achieved my highest ITRA score in that very race! It wasn't just about crossing the finish line; it was about proving that strategy, meticulous preparation, and yes, a little bit of AI brilliance, can lead to amazing results on the trails. It was a proud moment, showing that embracing technology can push our human limits even further.
Beyond the Bruises and Blisters
Running an ultra night trail, as I did for much of SMR 50K, is truly an experience. It's like staring into the void... and the void, my friends, is full of rocks, roots, and questionable life choices. 😅 I used to say I’d never run in the dark for fun. But after CTC 80K and now SMR 50K, let’s just say my perspective has… shifted. Who needs sleep when you can stumble through a forest at 2 AM? It’s dark, it’s challenging, and it’s strangely… peaceful. 😌 It’s about being completely present, trusting your feet, and letting your headlamp guide you through the unknown.
And then there’s the summit. Ah, the summit! The goal, the reward, the epic view you dream of. But sometimes, Ungaran takes the saying "the journey is more important than the destination" very, very seriously. I hit the summit in thick fog, zero view. No epic sunrise, just a whole lotta mist. 😔
It was a humbling reminder. Sometimes you climb a mountain, you push your body, you battle the elements, and all you get is fog. No Instagram-worthy picture, no grand vista. But in that mist, I realized something important: oftentimes, the best views are the ones you create within yourself. ✨ It’s about the strength you find, the limits you overcome, the joy of simply being there, pushing forward. That internal landscape, the feeling of accomplishment, of pushing through, that’s the true reward.
Of course, it’s not just about my internal journey. The camaraderie out on the trails is incredible. The shared struggles, the encouraging nods, the understanding glances – that's the heart of the trail running community. And when you can see them, the natural beauty of Ungaran truly is a spectacle.
Tips from a (Slightly) Wiser Runner
If an ultra trail race is calling your name, here are a few thoughts from someone who’s been there, done that, and probably tripped over a root or two:
- Train smart. Whether it’s 50K or 80K, respect the distance. Build your strength, especially for those uphills, and don't forget the downhills – they can be surprisingly tough on the legs!
- Essential equipment is non-negotiable. Good shoes, a comfortable pack, enough hydration and nutrition, and if you’re doing the longer distances, a reliable headlamp are your best friends. Learn from my past mishaps: a blister ignored is a race regretted!
- More than physical strength, trail running is about mental toughness. Resilience, a positive attitude, and a healthy dose of humor are your secret weapons. When your quads are screaming, remember why you started. Embrace the suck, breathe, and keep moving forward. And maybe, just maybe, try to enjoy the quiet conversations you have with yourself at 2 AM.
The Mountain is Calling
So, there you have it. The Semarang Mountain Race is an invitation to challenge yourself, to connect with nature, and to discover what you’re truly made of. My journey there, fueled by strategy and an embracing of the unexpected, taught me invaluable lessons. Whether you’re aiming for your highest ITRA score, trying your first night run, or just want to enjoy a beautiful day out on the trails, this race offers a unique journey.
The mountain is calling, my friends. Will you answer?
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