SUSSAYA KONGSAGUL

My CM1 Race Note:

Before the race…
As a marathon runner and rehabilitation doctor treating countless trail running injuries. I’ve always curious about challenges my patients face. So, I decided to get my first trekking poles, lace up my shoes, and hit the trails myself!

I was searching for an exciting trail race to start with. Thinking of a city known for its hills, beautiful nature, and friendly people, I chose Chiang Mai. And after hearing about the CM6 as the most popular and acclaimed trail race in the area, I decided to sign up for the shortest race - CM1!

I arrived in Chiang Mai on Saturday, August 3rd, to find that it’s been pouring rain for the past 5 days. Kinda nervous thinking about muddy and slippery trails, but I determined to give it a try.

In the race day…
I was so lucky that the weather was perfect on Sunday, August 4th. The rain stopped and the sun is out! At the starting line, I heard some great advice. Remembered this great quote: “Nothing is impossible as long as you don’t give up.” This quote made me ready for anything. Then I started running in block B at 7:15 AM.

The first kilometer was on a flat road, and I was running at my usual pace. But after that, the trail got harder. It was uphill and the terrain was so different from what I'm used to. Really challenging for me, especially since I wasn't sure about my footing or how to use my poles. I was trying to conserve energy because I was worried about fatigue or getting injured. But thanks to all experienced runner mates who kept cheering me on, I felt more confident. They even showed me how to place my feet on some of the tricky parts.

Things got really intense at the half way of the climb, around 4th to 7th kilometers. There was a steep section that was like climbing a wall. A lot of runners were sitting or standing at the bottom, looking up at the climb and watching others struggle to get up.

Having overcome the most challenging section, I found the going much easier and accelerated my pace. Even some tiredness, I ended up pushing myself harder and made it to HQ in 2 hours and 34 minutes.

In this first half of the race, I fueled up with two energy gels, one after an hour and the other after two hours. And I could say that these trekking poles are my new best friend! They totally helped the beginners like me getting up the hill.

At HQ, I rehydrated myself with water and electrolytes. They had everything I needed there - cold drinks, Pocari Sweat, fruits, snacks, instant noodles, and even some cooked food. And the best part are super supportive staffs. In just 5 minutes, I felt completely refreshed and ready to hit the trail again.

I was more relieved in the second half of the race. I'd heard horror stories about the downhill, but it wasn't as bad as I thought.

The first part of downhill, around 10th to 12th kilometers, was easy for me - partly paved and firm. Then it got a bit more up and down, but nothing too crazy.

The toughest part was around 13th to 16th kilometers. It was super steep and slippery, and I even had to use a rope a few times! My shoes were sinking into the mud and I had to really watch my step, but I kept going.

It was so funny how photographers always seem to catch me at the toughest spots. I forced myself to put on a fake smile and pretend everything's sunshine and rainbows, but inside I was thinking, 'Really? Right now? This is the moment you want to capture?', and laughed to myself.

The final two kilometers were a piece of cake! The ground was hard and dry, with a few rocks here and there, but nothing to slow me down. As soon as I saw the gray road, it felt like I was back to a road race again. I was thinking about the finish line, and I knew I was almost there. Getting closer to it, people were cheering, clapping, and even taking pictures.

Crossing that finish line, after enduring 18.5 kilometers and 1,100 meters of elevation gain, was one of the best feelings ever. 3 hours and 59 minutes, not bad!

After the race…
I enjoyed exploring Chiang Mai without pain or injury. Northern Thai food totally hooked me, I’m still dreaming about it! The vibe, the people, and those amazing trails are seriously missing.

Just like everyone says, I totally get the hype about trail running now! There's something really special about escaping the city and immersing yourself in nature. The fresh air, the muddy trails, and the super supportive community make it such a unique experience. Whether you're a newbie like me or a pro runner looking to crush your PB, the CM1 distance is perfect.

For all readers seeking your first trail race. I highly recommended CM1! You won’t regret giving it a shot!

I'm so grateful for this experience. Thanks to the race organizers, volunteers, and all my fellow runners! Thanks for making my first trail race so awesome. I learned so much, both about running and about taking care of my patients. I'm definitely coming back next year!