Umpired at NUS for the South zone today. After umpiring the first game then I know that it was a crucial game. Didn’t really do very well positioning myself because of my aching knee and ankle. After that, umpired a one sided game with sixty goal difference. My positioning was even worst. Because of the court condition, I was so close to the umpire on the next court.
After umpiring, went indoor stadium for Slingers game with Weide. It was quite exciting watching professional Basketball with its many stunts on court.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Ouch!!! My ankle is in pain.
Before coaching today at school I twisted my ankle. The crack sound was felt and I thought it’s gone. Yes the one I injured like less then two weeks ago. Another suey day! I was looking for the canteen to buy some stuff to eat and it happened. Didn’t see the small step in front of me. Ahrrrr… But then, after a while it’s better. Still a little painful though.
After coaching, went Sports School for my girls’ game. They got trashed. Passes were thrown away everywhere. Drives were not strong and a lot of hesitation in the process. What a mess.
Then after the game, went RP to play netball. Yup! With an injured ankle. Just say that I’m crazy to play. The game was alright. Played GD, GK and C. I like the most when I play centre. I felt that I can actually do more for the team.
Iced my ankle and knees just now. Hope it gets better tomorrow. Need it to umpire tomorrow night.
Before coaching today at school I twisted my ankle. The crack sound was felt and I thought it’s gone. Yes the one I injured like less then two weeks ago. Another suey day! I was looking for the canteen to buy some stuff to eat and it happened. Didn’t see the small step in front of me. Ahrrrr… But then, after a while it’s better. Still a little painful though.
After coaching, went Sports School for my girls’ game. They got trashed. Passes were thrown away everywhere. Drives were not strong and a lot of hesitation in the process. What a mess.
Then after the game, went RP to play netball. Yup! With an injured ankle. Just say that I’m crazy to play. The game was alright. Played GD, GK and C. I like the most when I play centre. I felt that I can actually do more for the team.
Iced my ankle and knees just now. Hope it gets better tomorrow. Need it to umpire tomorrow night.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
What a day.
Daisy Tan 2nd round today. Played in the morning and umpired in the afternoon.
We got 2nd today. Lost to Zeal twice. From the winner pool to the loser pool, and then into the final. Wasn’t really playing the way I usually play today. I love to run around defenders more and link up passes even as a shooter. Anyway, it’s still a good try on blocking and getting short fast lobs. The better team wins. I can say that Zeal is indeed the better team today.
Umpiring was pretty stress. It was very competitive netballing in the opens category. Two of the games I umpired are only with one goal difference and another two with two goals difference. Long time didn’t do such high level games.
“Singlemanship wins a race; Teamwork wins championship”
We don’t need individualism in Netball, we need to be a team to play Netball.
Daisy Tan 2nd round today. Played in the morning and umpired in the afternoon.
We got 2nd today. Lost to Zeal twice. From the winner pool to the loser pool, and then into the final. Wasn’t really playing the way I usually play today. I love to run around defenders more and link up passes even as a shooter. Anyway, it’s still a good try on blocking and getting short fast lobs. The better team wins. I can say that Zeal is indeed the better team today.
Umpiring was pretty stress. It was very competitive netballing in the opens category. Two of the games I umpired are only with one goal difference and another two with two goals difference. Long time didn’t do such high level games.
“Singlemanship wins a race; Teamwork wins championship”
We don’t need individualism in Netball, we need to be a team to play Netball.
Friday, January 25, 2008
I’m so bored.
It’s such a grey day today. Everything seems so moody.
Yesterday after coaching rushed to my c girls’ game. Another close game lost. Ahrrrrr… Why is this happening to my team all the time?
Went club training together with Sylvia and Eric after that. Another boring training session. Feel that it’s a waste of time sometimes. But at least there are some useful pair ball work learned.
Chompang Nasi Lemak with Eric and Pam after training. Crunchy chicken wing. Yummy!!!
Couldn’t really sleep last night. Only turn in at five in the morning. But then, was waken up by a sms around nine. I got up, had breakfast and went to bed around eleven. Again, sms woke me up. I tried to sleep but had to get up at one to go for coaching.
It was bad coaching I did today. I was lifeless and the girls were out of control many times. Usually, I’m able to get their attention with my whistle but I was not allowed to use because there’s basketball game going on. I gotta find a way to be more effective.
It’s such a grey day today. Everything seems so moody.
Yesterday after coaching rushed to my c girls’ game. Another close game lost. Ahrrrrr… Why is this happening to my team all the time?
Went club training together with Sylvia and Eric after that. Another boring training session. Feel that it’s a waste of time sometimes. But at least there are some useful pair ball work learned.
Chompang Nasi Lemak with Eric and Pam after training. Crunchy chicken wing. Yummy!!!
Couldn’t really sleep last night. Only turn in at five in the morning. But then, was waken up by a sms around nine. I got up, had breakfast and went to bed around eleven. Again, sms woke me up. I tried to sleep but had to get up at one to go for coaching.
It was bad coaching I did today. I was lifeless and the girls were out of control many times. Usually, I’m able to get their attention with my whistle but I was not allowed to use because there’s basketball game going on. I gotta find a way to be more effective.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
I hate this.
I’m speechless.
I don’t think I can take it if it happens again.
It’s so close.
It’s too close.
I can still feel the heartache.
I still hear the words I’ve said.
Things that I’ve yell at.
I feel that time had stopped.
Stopped at when it hurts the most.
I’m still at that moment where it all ended.
No.
I have to get up.
I need to get up.
I have to put back the pieces of my heart.
There are so much more to do.
I’m speechless.
I don’t think I can take it if it happens again.
It’s so close.
It’s too close.
I can still feel the heartache.
I still hear the words I’ve said.
Things that I’ve yell at.
I feel that time had stopped.
Stopped at when it hurts the most.
I’m still at that moment where it all ended.
No.
I have to get up.
I need to get up.
I have to put back the pieces of my heart.
There are so much more to do.
Ouch!!! My knee ache. My right ankle too. Ahrrr…
Went NUS to play some netball today. It has been a very long time since I last went. I think it was like two months ago. Like usual, I had lots of fun playing there.
When I reach the court at NUS today, a student asked me if I’ve went HongKong to play netball last month. I was surprised. She explained that she’s an exchange student from HongKong and saw me played last month. This world is just so small isn’t it? Her name is Catherine and is her first time joining the recre netball at NUS. She played together with us for a few quarters and before I manage to get her contacts, she’s gone. Guess I’ll just have to ask for her contacts next time.
Coaching today was tiring. Can anyone teach me how can I deal with kids??? They are really pushing their limits to test my patience.
Went NUS to play some netball today. It has been a very long time since I last went. I think it was like two months ago. Like usual, I had lots of fun playing there.
When I reach the court at NUS today, a student asked me if I’ve went HongKong to play netball last month. I was surprised. She explained that she’s an exchange student from HongKong and saw me played last month. This world is just so small isn’t it? Her name is Catherine and is her first time joining the recre netball at NUS. She played together with us for a few quarters and before I manage to get her contacts, she’s gone. Guess I’ll just have to ask for her contacts next time.
Coaching today was tiring. Can anyone teach me how can I deal with kids??? They are really pushing their limits to test my patience.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Back from coaching. I have only one and a half month to get them ready for tournament. I’m seriously running out of time. How? I’m still stuck at footwork. Maybe I should just concentrate on the few that’s better at it.
Before and after coaching, I went to meet up with Hougang girls. They have match today but I couldn’t be there. They lost by quite a big margin. Anyway, I hope they learn from their mistakes and improve themselves for the coming games.
Hougang JiaYou!!!
Before and after coaching, I went to meet up with Hougang girls. They have match today but I couldn’t be there. They lost by quite a big margin. Anyway, I hope they learn from their mistakes and improve themselves for the coming games.
Hougang JiaYou!!!
Oh man!!! I slept the whole Sunday away. Now can’t really sleep already.
Did some coaching yesterday morning cause the girls wanted to train. I think it was quite good. Manage to talk to the girls about what I think after the game on Friday.
Then went for Zenith AGM. New president and vice president. Hope with new leadership now, we are able to progress forward.
Did some coaching yesterday morning cause the girls wanted to train. I think it was quite good. Manage to talk to the girls about what I think after the game on Friday.
Then went for Zenith AGM. New president and vice president. Hope with new leadership now, we are able to progress forward.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
I felt like crying today. I really do. But I have to put up a strong front. To show that we’ll carry on the journey no matter what’s ahead.
It was a close game. Very close indeed. I know everyone have done their best. Pushing the limit and giving more then you’ve ever done. I understand. I do. I’m sorry for shouting so loud. I’m sorry if I’ve got myself too emotional. This is my game too. I hope you understand. I want to win as much as you do. I really do.
What can I ask from you? I can only ask from myself. For myself to pick up the pieces and put it back together. I’ll do my best. I’m doing my best. If it’s not enough, I’ll push myself over the limit for you. Yes. It’s for you Hougang.
It was a close game. Very close indeed. I know everyone have done their best. Pushing the limit and giving more then you’ve ever done. I understand. I do. I’m sorry for shouting so loud. I’m sorry if I’ve got myself too emotional. This is my game too. I hope you understand. I want to win as much as you do. I really do.
What can I ask from you? I can only ask from myself. For myself to pick up the pieces and put it back together. I’ll do my best. I’m doing my best. If it’s not enough, I’ll push myself over the limit for you. Yes. It’s for you Hougang.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Do you believe in ‘luck’?
I was thinking about this question my friend asked me last night. Do I believe or not? But this has brought up another question. Where will my faith be? If I’m a person with faith, I shouldn’t have believe in luck isn’t it? By thinking about this, I know where the state of my faith is now.
‘I wish I don’t believe in luck’
But then, I sprained my ankle during coaching today. Is it an unlucky day?
I think I’m just ‘suey’ today.
I started to coach Rosyth today. The sun was burning hot but it went pretty well. The sad part was injuring myself doing demo. I think my knees and ankles are getting more fragile. Ouch!!!
After that rushed to HougangSec for some last minute coaching before their game tomorrow. JiaYou Hougang!!!
I was thinking about this question my friend asked me last night. Do I believe or not? But this has brought up another question. Where will my faith be? If I’m a person with faith, I shouldn’t have believe in luck isn’t it? By thinking about this, I know where the state of my faith is now.
‘I wish I don’t believe in luck’
But then, I sprained my ankle during coaching today. Is it an unlucky day?
I think I’m just ‘suey’ today.
I started to coach Rosyth today. The sun was burning hot but it went pretty well. The sad part was injuring myself doing demo. I think my knees and ankles are getting more fragile. Ouch!!!
After that rushed to HougangSec for some last minute coaching before their game tomorrow. JiaYou Hougang!!!
Monday, January 14, 2008
I think the shooters hate me for what I did to them today. They’ve each shoot more than a thousand shoots I believe. Neck must be damn stiff and arms all sore now. Shooters only did shooting the whole training for almost three hours. And the rest was doing a bit of throw in and simple drills. I hate the rain. Yes it rains again during training today. Can’t use the court for game and court work. And some more today can’t use the hall. Wasn’t really being productive today with the drills I did with the girls. Should be ready for the rain on next training.
Played some basketball yesterday. It was fun. But I lost my contact lens in the first few minutes. Sharks!!! Played the rest with a blurry vision and lost so many passes to me.
Umpired DaisyTan schools on Saturday. I only did the second round. After umpiring, a few of us went to the newly opened LeisurePark to eat and played bowling. It was fun.
Played some basketball yesterday. It was fun. But I lost my contact lens in the first few minutes. Sharks!!! Played the rest with a blurry vision and lost so many passes to me.
Umpired DaisyTan schools on Saturday. I only did the second round. After umpiring, a few of us went to the newly opened LeisurePark to eat and played bowling. It was fun.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Hougang coaching was great yesterday. Have them played court game all the way during training. Zonal starting next week. I really hope they do their best for the games.
Coral Primary coaching today. Did some revision of basic passes and foot work drills. With this pace, I doubt they’ll be ready for games in March. Gotta think of a way to increase the pace. Maybe more time efficient?
Coral Primary coaching today. Did some revision of basic passes and foot work drills. With this pace, I doubt they’ll be ready for games in March. Gotta think of a way to increase the pace. Maybe more time efficient?
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Was at BetterVision to order my contact lenses this morning. Since I was there, I asked about Transition lens also. I’ll likely to need it when I started coaching full time and having most time outdoor under the sun. The lens it self cost two hundred twenty. And from the frames I’ve tried on, I like the Oakley one most. Comfortable and stylish, but it cost over four hundred dollars. Can you imagine paying almost seven hundred dollars for a pair of glasses? After some thought, I decided not to. Contact lenses had cost me almost four hundred dollars. I can’t afford to spend one k now since I haven’t really started working. Gotta control myself. Was looking at watches recently since my Adidas watch broke last month. I’ll need to hold the temptation as well. ‘KS’ no more walking into watches shops and galleries.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
I’ve been busy like a bee since I’m back last Saturday.
On Saturday. My brother and I helped out my dad with the installation of his project. Then at night, went supper with Weide till around two.
Sunday. DaisyTan. Woke up before eight to umpire in the morning and then game plus umpiring in the afternoon. It was freaking tiring. During the last game, my right calf and part of my thigh cramped. But I continue to play crippled. My team won all the matches and will be going second round on twenty seventh.
Monday. Went for interview at 1stToaPayohSec. They are starting Netball as CCA so needed a coach. I’m a bit reluctant to take them actually. Will need to do basics all over again and few years to build up.
Tuesday. Went out with my brother and his wife. Walked around town area and also watched AVP2. The show was quite ok. Then Zenith committee meeting at night. Reached home pass midnight.
Wednesday. Woke up before six to go CoralPri for talent spotting. All the P3 pupils are so cute. Hope they choose Netball as their CCA.
On Saturday. My brother and I helped out my dad with the installation of his project. Then at night, went supper with Weide till around two.
Sunday. DaisyTan. Woke up before eight to umpire in the morning and then game plus umpiring in the afternoon. It was freaking tiring. During the last game, my right calf and part of my thigh cramped. But I continue to play crippled. My team won all the matches and will be going second round on twenty seventh.
Monday. Went for interview at 1stToaPayohSec. They are starting Netball as CCA so needed a coach. I’m a bit reluctant to take them actually. Will need to do basics all over again and few years to build up.
Tuesday. Went out with my brother and his wife. Walked around town area and also watched AVP2. The show was quite ok. Then Zenith committee meeting at night. Reached home pass midnight.
Wednesday. Woke up before six to go CoralPri for talent spotting. All the P3 pupils are so cute. Hope they choose Netball as their CCA.
Saturday, January 05, 2008
I went Penang with my sis and some of her friends last Sunday. It was an eye opener. Didn’t expect Penang could have so much fun. Having many historical landmarks and delicacies. It was awesome!!!
'Komtar Penang' Tallest building in Georgetown
Fort Cornwallis Light House
'Komtar Penang' Tallest building in Georgetown
2 Ferries and Penang Bridge at the far background
Penang Jetty and a Ferry at dock
Story of Penang and 'Pinang' how the name Penang came about
Story of Penang and 'Pinang' how the name Penang came about
Behind me is a Pinang Sead
Betel Palm. Tree of the Pinang Sead
Fort Cornwallis Light House
Fort Cornwallis which close on Sunday and Public holidays
St George's Church
Goddess of Mercy Temple 'Guan Ying Ting'
Little India
Food guide
Let's eat
Penang Rd, Penang Laksa and Cendol
Penang CharKueyTiao
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Looking at what I’ve done during 2007, it’s mostly only on Netball.
Is it a good thing or a bad thing?
Anyway, I think it’s not a sad thing.
I wish my year of 2008 can be one that I’ll remember and feel content of.
I wish to do some of the followings:
Passing my NCAP lv1 technical
Go for NCAP lv2 theory classes
Umpire NSL
Hopefully can go for B badging
Getting 2A license and a bike
Take up a degree course if possible
Learn to play guitar better and pick up piano
Find a GF that is also a soul mate
Improve my communication skills and better express myself
Build a stronger confidence and mental capability
Wah!!! Having so many, I better remind myself constantly so to achieve it.
Is it a good thing or a bad thing?
Anyway, I think it’s not a sad thing.
I wish my year of 2008 can be one that I’ll remember and feel content of.
I wish to do some of the followings:
Passing my NCAP lv1 technical
Go for NCAP lv2 theory classes
Umpire NSL
Hopefully can go for B badging
Getting 2A license and a bike
Take up a degree course if possible
Learn to play guitar better and pick up piano
Find a GF that is also a soul mate
Improve my communication skills and better express myself
Build a stronger confidence and mental capability
Wah!!! Having so many, I better remind myself constantly so to achieve it.
I’m reminding myself it’s 2008 now.
It actually still not yet sink into my head.
Come to think of what have I done in 2007. What have I really done???
January
Game with Bedok CSC
Game with NYP, TP & RP
Umpired Daisy Tan
2nd place at Daisy Tan Mixed
NCAP lv1 theory classes
MRI my left knee at CGH
Watched IVP final
Started coaching Hougang Secondary School
My first Zonal game with HSS after only few sessions of coaching
February
Umpired Sing Health carnival
Umpired Open’s game
Umpired Sports School’s intake selection
Umpired some North & East Zonal games
Physio at CGH
March
Umpired East Zone B-div final
Umpired U21, U19, U17 & NSL selections
Went to my first ever ‘Shiok’ Frisbee club training which I didn’t continue
Umpired Tanglin Trust School carnival
Umpired some East Primary Zonal games
Umpired Civil Service Club Carnival
Few games with TJ
Game with U21 squad
Umpired a postponed South Zone C-div game
Physio at CGH
Watched NSL
April
Game with NSL team Mannas
Zenith Netball Camp
Umpired U21 & U19 selections
Umpired A-div games
May
Game with RP
Game with U21
C badging tests
Umpired ENL games
Game with NSL team Vipers
June
Watched NSL final
Umpired ENL div1 games
Games with NYP
‘Viscosupplementation’ knee lubricant injections at CGH
Game with TP
Physio at CGH
July
Game with NYP
Umpired ENL div1 games
Test for NCAP lv1 Technical ‘Which I Failed’
Umpired U19 friendliest
Umpired PA Intercon Carnival
Umpired Pol-ite games
Umpired U17 & U19 vs Bkt Jalill
August
3rd place at Pesta Sukan Mixed
Game with U21
Participated in 24hrs Streetz Basketball and Netball
Umpired Pesta Sukan
Umpired Open’s games
Basketball friendly game
Umpired Netballuxion
Joined Netops
September
Watched 5 Nations Netball Cup
Quit my office job
Umpired Zenith Mixed Carnival
Game with NYP
Going home for a week, KL then back to Singapore
October
Umpired IVP games
Umpired Corporate league games
Umpired Open’s games
Umpired ISSAC league games
November
Started coaching Coral Primary School
Umpired Corporate league final
Umpired ISSAC league and Junior league games
My brother’s wedding
Umpired Netops Carnival
December
Home in Malaysia most of the time
And the biggest thing last year ‘Zenith HongKong trip’
It actually still not yet sink into my head.
Come to think of what have I done in 2007. What have I really done???
January
Game with Bedok CSC
Game with NYP, TP & RP
Umpired Daisy Tan
2nd place at Daisy Tan Mixed
NCAP lv1 theory classes
MRI my left knee at CGH
Watched IVP final
Started coaching Hougang Secondary School
My first Zonal game with HSS after only few sessions of coaching
February
Umpired Sing Health carnival
Umpired Open’s game
Umpired Sports School’s intake selection
Umpired some North & East Zonal games
Physio at CGH
March
Umpired East Zone B-div final
Umpired U21, U19, U17 & NSL selections
Went to my first ever ‘Shiok’ Frisbee club training which I didn’t continue
Umpired Tanglin Trust School carnival
Umpired some East Primary Zonal games
Umpired Civil Service Club Carnival
Few games with TJ
Game with U21 squad
Umpired a postponed South Zone C-div game
Physio at CGH
Watched NSL
April
Game with NSL team Mannas
Zenith Netball Camp
Umpired U21 & U19 selections
Umpired A-div games
May
Game with RP
Game with U21
C badging tests
Umpired ENL games
Game with NSL team Vipers
June
Watched NSL final
Umpired ENL div1 games
Games with NYP
‘Viscosupplementation’ knee lubricant injections at CGH
Game with TP
Physio at CGH
July
Game with NYP
Umpired ENL div1 games
Test for NCAP lv1 Technical ‘Which I Failed’
Umpired U19 friendliest
Umpired PA Intercon Carnival
Umpired Pol-ite games
Umpired U17 & U19 vs Bkt Jalill
August
3rd place at Pesta Sukan Mixed
Game with U21
Participated in 24hrs Streetz Basketball and Netball
Umpired Pesta Sukan
Umpired Open’s games
Basketball friendly game
Umpired Netballuxion
Joined Netops
September
Watched 5 Nations Netball Cup
Quit my office job
Umpired Zenith Mixed Carnival
Game with NYP
Going home for a week, KL then back to Singapore
October
Umpired IVP games
Umpired Corporate league games
Umpired Open’s games
Umpired ISSAC league games
November
Started coaching Coral Primary School
Umpired Corporate league final
Umpired ISSAC league and Junior league games
My brother’s wedding
Umpired Netops Carnival
December
Home in Malaysia most of the time
And the biggest thing last year ‘Zenith HongKong trip’
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
About HongKong trip, it was fun but exhausting. Fun being able to experience life there and having holiday at another country. The exhausting part was playing four games in a role in four days. Body was aching like mad and not having enough rest for it. Anyway, it was good that we are able to win all four games.
Day one, 19th Dec. We met up before six at Changi Airport for our flight at seven. Check in our luggage, went to eat Mac, then to the checkpoint. But I was held by the officer for overstaying. I was only allowed one day entry on the 17th when I came to Singapore, meaning I’ll have to leave Singapore on 18th. Because of this, I was at ICA to extend a day’s stay the day before. I was told at ICA that I don’t need to extend, instead only need to leave Singapore on the 19th. And so, I explained to the officer at Changi Airport checkpoint. But time was really running out for me, it’s almost seven and I was not allowed to leave yet. My phone rung, Jack called me to board the plane now as it’s going off soon. The officer herds the call and asked me what time is my flight. She looks at my boarding pass and hurry on what she was doing with the computer system. She explained that for overstaying, I’ll have to pay a compound but she will cancel it off with a new 30/60 days system. She stamped my passport with the green round departed stamp; I grab it and start to sprint towards gate E4. Everyone in the terminal was watching me for that minute. I didn’t see any boarding gates at first in the shops section and I wonder if I’m on the right way. And finally, I’ve got to the end of the shops and reach gates section. I saw gate E4, the second one at my right. I ran on the travelator and then on to the carpet. Staffs at gate E4 waved at me and shouted, ‘Are you Mr Tan???’ I said yes while panting with hard breathings. The officer stopped me and walkie-talkie to the plane requesting for last passenger boarding, and it was granted. Immediately, my bag was scanned and I was swept with a metal detector. I grabbed my bag and started to run, but I was called back for the phone I forgotten. I turned back for my phone and then dash to the plane. The flight crews welcomed me with a big smile. I think my smile was even bigger for making it into the plane safely. I was sweaty, panting, and very happy that I’m on the way to HongKong. My heart was still pounding rapidly when I settled down on my seat for take off. The flight was great, watching a movie on the palm wide display and having free flow of wines and beers. Not forgetting the meal and cornetto ice cream for dessert. We touch down HongKong airport just few minutes before eleven, walked to the arrival checkpoint and queued for entry stamp. After that, collected our luggage and then to the van sending us to our hostel. Reached MongKok at twelve plus and the streets were still filled with pedestrians. This place lived up to being one of the busiest streets in the world. We went up to our hostel, pick our beds, and then went down for a walk and supper at around two plus. Amazingly, there are still ChaChanTeng open.
Day two, 20th Dec. We had TimSum for brunch because most of us woke up a little late. Then after the delicious meal, we went to walk around MongKok and did some shopping at LadiesStreet. At four thirty, we gathered for our bus to Hong Kong Institute of Education. After reaching HK IED, peoples from the Netball team brought us for a tour around the school. At around six, we went to the court on top of the hill to get ready for the game. The sky was already dark and it’s freezing cold. After some warm up drills, my hands still feels like popsicles. We were very tense during the game. Very low scoring at both sides missing most shots. Guess it’s the first game we are having and also because of the cold weather. We manage to lead by only few goals all the way till the end of the game. The girls did better with their game after ours, winning by a bigger margin. After the games, we played some mixed as well. Then, we have some photos and then back to Hostel on our rented bus. Some went TempleStreet and some of us back hostel to leave our stuff before going out for dinner. We were looking for a steamboat restaurant but couldn’t find so settled for a ChaChanTeng instead. I had fried rice with pork chop and YunYong, and also helped Brenda finished her fish porridge after finishing mine. Then after that, we were back to hostel for the day’s rest.
Day Three, 21st Dec. [Ocean Park] The rides were exciting, the dolphin show, sharks, fishes, the long escalators, shopping, it was fun to the max. At two plus, we bussed back to Admiralty and then train to meet the others for a late lunch. It’s great to have Paul joining us. After lunch, we went to have a short foot massage before going back to hostel and then to ShekKipMei Indoor Games Hall. Game with the HongKong Men’s team was pretty tight. But we managed to hold on to the lead to have victory in the end. Then, we had some photos together and went MongKok SateyWong for dinner. I sat together with some of the HongKies as each table only can occupy six persons. The meal was great!!! Eating so many different yummy dishes cause each of us ordered a few to share. After the filling meal, some of us went HuiLauShan for desserts but I went back hostel to rest.
Day Four, 22nd Dec. A few of us went Adidas factory outlet in the morning. I bought two tops and a white short at a very low price. Then back hostel to gather at two for the game with HK University of Science and Technology. We travelled to ShamShuiPo Sports Ground for the game that starts at three thirty. The game goes pretty well for us winning it quite comfortably. After showering, the sky was all dark, but looking at the time, it’s before seven. We went back hostel to put our stuffs and then went FaYuen Street that also known as ‘PoHaiKai’ to check out some shoes. Shoe shops stretch along both sides of the streets selling all kinds of sports shoes at very reasonable prices. After that, we met up with a friend and went LamKuaiFong at Central for a drink. There were lots of peoples there and there’s even a pub full of Santa costumed pubers.
Day Five, 23rd Dec. We had our last game in the morning today. Few of us met up at eight for breakfast before going ShamShuiPo for our game with HK University. Ladies game first before action for the guys. Both games went very well for us winning comfortably. We had a few quarters of mixed games as well. After that, we had some photos and went on to shower before continuing our day. After shower around three, we went to have lunch at a shopping centre. There were many fans around the centre area waiting for the artist when we had lunch. Later we found out that it is HeiSheHuiMeiMei, a group from Taiwan. After lunch, we went to Nike factory outlet and few other shops for some shopping. Then, few of us wanted to go The Peak for a night view of HongKong. So, we went hostel to put our stuffs and went TsimShaTsui. Before taking the Star Ferry to HongKong Island, we went Esprit outlet near the jetty for some shopping. I bought a top for myself and few pieces for my sisters. After that, we continue on our journey. The ten minutes ferry ride was great, offering great views of HongKong and Kowloon skylines at night. Then after the ferry ride, we took cab to a place at Central to have dinner. During the Journey, our cab crash into another cab in front. Luckily our cab driver breaks in time to minimize the impact, and none of us were injured. But all of us were shocked. We changed to another cab to get to the restaurant after that. The restaurant is famous for its ‘SiewChao’ same as our ‘ZhiCha’ in Singapore. The dishes were delicious. After dinner, we took ‘TingTing’ and then cab to the Peak Tram Station reaching there at almost eleven. The station was deserted, having few of us being the last passengers. Ride to the top passes in a glimpse, sitting in the tram going on the steep tracks was an unforgettable experience. When we got out of the station, it started to drizzle and the winds were freezing cold. We took some photos and then look for a place where we can sit down for a drink. Sadly, all the cafés and restaurants are closed, all the shops as well. So, nothing much we can do except getting down. The tram ride down was even more exciting. We still have to sit facing up while it decent down very quickly. With the steep down momentum, you’ll realise that buildings are slanting if you don’t lean up right according to the buildings angel. Funny feeling I must say.
Day Six, 24th Dec. Christmas Eve. Woke up almost in the afternoon today. Was thinking of going Macau in the first place but in the end decided not to go. So, to make up for the not so fulfilling Peak experience, we went to the peak again. This time, I was with different bunch of peoples. We went to Esprit again and took the ferry across. Coincidently, we met few of the others at Esprit and they were also heading the same way. After crossing the strait, we took bus 15C to the Tram Station. The station was pack with peoples queuing for the Tram ride up the mountain. As one of us has an eight o’clock plane to catch, we hurried up with cabs. It actually cost less taking cab up the peak than tram. So, we were up on top again. This time, enjoying the not so foggy and day view of HongKong. It was still pretty cold with winds blowing consistently. We had our fill of photos and even asked foreigner to help us with the camera. After less than an hour, we cab down to Central MTR station to go back to hostel. At night, I went FaYuen Street to buy a pair of shoe I saw earlier. We spend some time looking for the shop as I have forgotten which shop it actually is with the whole stretch looking the same. I finally got it and we continue to Temple Street. After the much walking and sightseeing, we bought KFC back hostel to eat and have our own Christmas countdown.
Day Seven, 25th Dec. Christmas Day. Last day of the trip, missing home and also having this feeling of reluctant to go. It’s very weird having this mix feelings. There are only five of us lefts, all the rest have went back to Singapore on different earlier flights. So, Jack, Edison and me went WongTaiSin temple for some sightseeing. Then, we had brunch somewhere nearby and went StarWalk for more last minute sightseeing. At five, we gathered for our van to the airport. The ride was great having the sun set view on the TsingMa Bridge. After checking in our luggage, we did some last minute shopping at the airport. After reaching Singapore, I was stop at the checkpoint again. I was granted one day special pass this time. Because that I enter Singapore after midnight on the 26th, I only have to leave on the 27th.
This is a very exciting trip to HongKong. Unforgettable with many unique experiences. I’ll definitely visit HongKong again for the experience and things I’ve missed this time. Photos will be up when I have them.
Day one, 19th Dec. We met up before six at Changi Airport for our flight at seven. Check in our luggage, went to eat Mac, then to the checkpoint. But I was held by the officer for overstaying. I was only allowed one day entry on the 17th when I came to Singapore, meaning I’ll have to leave Singapore on 18th. Because of this, I was at ICA to extend a day’s stay the day before. I was told at ICA that I don’t need to extend, instead only need to leave Singapore on the 19th. And so, I explained to the officer at Changi Airport checkpoint. But time was really running out for me, it’s almost seven and I was not allowed to leave yet. My phone rung, Jack called me to board the plane now as it’s going off soon. The officer herds the call and asked me what time is my flight. She looks at my boarding pass and hurry on what she was doing with the computer system. She explained that for overstaying, I’ll have to pay a compound but she will cancel it off with a new 30/60 days system. She stamped my passport with the green round departed stamp; I grab it and start to sprint towards gate E4. Everyone in the terminal was watching me for that minute. I didn’t see any boarding gates at first in the shops section and I wonder if I’m on the right way. And finally, I’ve got to the end of the shops and reach gates section. I saw gate E4, the second one at my right. I ran on the travelator and then on to the carpet. Staffs at gate E4 waved at me and shouted, ‘Are you Mr Tan???’ I said yes while panting with hard breathings. The officer stopped me and walkie-talkie to the plane requesting for last passenger boarding, and it was granted. Immediately, my bag was scanned and I was swept with a metal detector. I grabbed my bag and started to run, but I was called back for the phone I forgotten. I turned back for my phone and then dash to the plane. The flight crews welcomed me with a big smile. I think my smile was even bigger for making it into the plane safely. I was sweaty, panting, and very happy that I’m on the way to HongKong. My heart was still pounding rapidly when I settled down on my seat for take off. The flight was great, watching a movie on the palm wide display and having free flow of wines and beers. Not forgetting the meal and cornetto ice cream for dessert. We touch down HongKong airport just few minutes before eleven, walked to the arrival checkpoint and queued for entry stamp. After that, collected our luggage and then to the van sending us to our hostel. Reached MongKok at twelve plus and the streets were still filled with pedestrians. This place lived up to being one of the busiest streets in the world. We went up to our hostel, pick our beds, and then went down for a walk and supper at around two plus. Amazingly, there are still ChaChanTeng open.
Day two, 20th Dec. We had TimSum for brunch because most of us woke up a little late. Then after the delicious meal, we went to walk around MongKok and did some shopping at LadiesStreet. At four thirty, we gathered for our bus to Hong Kong Institute of Education. After reaching HK IED, peoples from the Netball team brought us for a tour around the school. At around six, we went to the court on top of the hill to get ready for the game. The sky was already dark and it’s freezing cold. After some warm up drills, my hands still feels like popsicles. We were very tense during the game. Very low scoring at both sides missing most shots. Guess it’s the first game we are having and also because of the cold weather. We manage to lead by only few goals all the way till the end of the game. The girls did better with their game after ours, winning by a bigger margin. After the games, we played some mixed as well. Then, we have some photos and then back to Hostel on our rented bus. Some went TempleStreet and some of us back hostel to leave our stuff before going out for dinner. We were looking for a steamboat restaurant but couldn’t find so settled for a ChaChanTeng instead. I had fried rice with pork chop and YunYong, and also helped Brenda finished her fish porridge after finishing mine. Then after that, we were back to hostel for the day’s rest.
Day Three, 21st Dec. [Ocean Park] The rides were exciting, the dolphin show, sharks, fishes, the long escalators, shopping, it was fun to the max. At two plus, we bussed back to Admiralty and then train to meet the others for a late lunch. It’s great to have Paul joining us. After lunch, we went to have a short foot massage before going back to hostel and then to ShekKipMei Indoor Games Hall. Game with the HongKong Men’s team was pretty tight. But we managed to hold on to the lead to have victory in the end. Then, we had some photos together and went MongKok SateyWong for dinner. I sat together with some of the HongKies as each table only can occupy six persons. The meal was great!!! Eating so many different yummy dishes cause each of us ordered a few to share. After the filling meal, some of us went HuiLauShan for desserts but I went back hostel to rest.
Day Four, 22nd Dec. A few of us went Adidas factory outlet in the morning. I bought two tops and a white short at a very low price. Then back hostel to gather at two for the game with HK University of Science and Technology. We travelled to ShamShuiPo Sports Ground for the game that starts at three thirty. The game goes pretty well for us winning it quite comfortably. After showering, the sky was all dark, but looking at the time, it’s before seven. We went back hostel to put our stuffs and then went FaYuen Street that also known as ‘PoHaiKai’ to check out some shoes. Shoe shops stretch along both sides of the streets selling all kinds of sports shoes at very reasonable prices. After that, we met up with a friend and went LamKuaiFong at Central for a drink. There were lots of peoples there and there’s even a pub full of Santa costumed pubers.
Day Five, 23rd Dec. We had our last game in the morning today. Few of us met up at eight for breakfast before going ShamShuiPo for our game with HK University. Ladies game first before action for the guys. Both games went very well for us winning comfortably. We had a few quarters of mixed games as well. After that, we had some photos and went on to shower before continuing our day. After shower around three, we went to have lunch at a shopping centre. There were many fans around the centre area waiting for the artist when we had lunch. Later we found out that it is HeiSheHuiMeiMei, a group from Taiwan. After lunch, we went to Nike factory outlet and few other shops for some shopping. Then, few of us wanted to go The Peak for a night view of HongKong. So, we went hostel to put our stuffs and went TsimShaTsui. Before taking the Star Ferry to HongKong Island, we went Esprit outlet near the jetty for some shopping. I bought a top for myself and few pieces for my sisters. After that, we continue on our journey. The ten minutes ferry ride was great, offering great views of HongKong and Kowloon skylines at night. Then after the ferry ride, we took cab to a place at Central to have dinner. During the Journey, our cab crash into another cab in front. Luckily our cab driver breaks in time to minimize the impact, and none of us were injured. But all of us were shocked. We changed to another cab to get to the restaurant after that. The restaurant is famous for its ‘SiewChao’ same as our ‘ZhiCha’ in Singapore. The dishes were delicious. After dinner, we took ‘TingTing’ and then cab to the Peak Tram Station reaching there at almost eleven. The station was deserted, having few of us being the last passengers. Ride to the top passes in a glimpse, sitting in the tram going on the steep tracks was an unforgettable experience. When we got out of the station, it started to drizzle and the winds were freezing cold. We took some photos and then look for a place where we can sit down for a drink. Sadly, all the cafés and restaurants are closed, all the shops as well. So, nothing much we can do except getting down. The tram ride down was even more exciting. We still have to sit facing up while it decent down very quickly. With the steep down momentum, you’ll realise that buildings are slanting if you don’t lean up right according to the buildings angel. Funny feeling I must say.
Day Six, 24th Dec. Christmas Eve. Woke up almost in the afternoon today. Was thinking of going Macau in the first place but in the end decided not to go. So, to make up for the not so fulfilling Peak experience, we went to the peak again. This time, I was with different bunch of peoples. We went to Esprit again and took the ferry across. Coincidently, we met few of the others at Esprit and they were also heading the same way. After crossing the strait, we took bus 15C to the Tram Station. The station was pack with peoples queuing for the Tram ride up the mountain. As one of us has an eight o’clock plane to catch, we hurried up with cabs. It actually cost less taking cab up the peak than tram. So, we were up on top again. This time, enjoying the not so foggy and day view of HongKong. It was still pretty cold with winds blowing consistently. We had our fill of photos and even asked foreigner to help us with the camera. After less than an hour, we cab down to Central MTR station to go back to hostel. At night, I went FaYuen Street to buy a pair of shoe I saw earlier. We spend some time looking for the shop as I have forgotten which shop it actually is with the whole stretch looking the same. I finally got it and we continue to Temple Street. After the much walking and sightseeing, we bought KFC back hostel to eat and have our own Christmas countdown.
Day Seven, 25th Dec. Christmas Day. Last day of the trip, missing home and also having this feeling of reluctant to go. It’s very weird having this mix feelings. There are only five of us lefts, all the rest have went back to Singapore on different earlier flights. So, Jack, Edison and me went WongTaiSin temple for some sightseeing. Then, we had brunch somewhere nearby and went StarWalk for more last minute sightseeing. At five, we gathered for our van to the airport. The ride was great having the sun set view on the TsingMa Bridge. After checking in our luggage, we did some last minute shopping at the airport. After reaching Singapore, I was stop at the checkpoint again. I was granted one day special pass this time. Because that I enter Singapore after midnight on the 26th, I only have to leave on the 27th.
This is a very exciting trip to HongKong. Unforgettable with many unique experiences. I’ll definitely visit HongKong again for the experience and things I’ve missed this time. Photos will be up when I have them.
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