The much anticipated day has arrived, 24th September 2006; I woke up early to have a satisfying breakfast. It was like no other day because today would be the time trials of Team SpeedVirus and also my second time trial after joining this great team of mad Viruses.

The competitors arrived early at the venue to prepare for this team event. I could feel the excitement and vigour in the atmosphere. Everyone was ready to slash their timing and set new records. So was I.

We started with the short sprint time trial. It was new to most of the rookies including me. Our captain/coach, Virus Jenn, patiently explained different techniques of sprinting with Viruses Kim, Stealth and Baby Virus doing demonstrations. Then we all did some major practice before the real time trial started. I could not get it right at first and I believe I was dashing like a penguin and slower than my normal take off. However, it all takes time and practice. I, "the young penguin Virus", also need time to learn and practice. The warm-up session ended with a hearty round of laughter before the real time trial started. I was nervous on the starting line, but I did a good start and dealt a tight turn after that. I set my first sprint timing and am contented, but I would train harder to set new personal records. That is also the goal for all Viruses. "Skate for the fitness and train for the speed".

The scheduled 10km time trial followed. Though 10 km was not too long but skating almost 60 laps round the short track do take its toll. The thought of it already made me dizzy. We were separated into two groups and I was in the second group. The first group finished off with very good timings. Viruses Stealth and Bear came in first and second position respectively, followed by Virus Evo. Then it was the second group's turn. As we gathered at the starting line, everyone was full of energy. "Ready... and go!" We all sprinted off the starting line pushing our best. The first few rounds were fine but when I hit the 20th round, I developed bad cramp in my left shin. I had the thought of giving up. The encouragement from team members made me carry on and the fighting spirit burnt in me once again.

"Crashhh!! Ahhh…" Heading towards the corner, saw Virus GCK "flew". With the cheering and encouragement of the team he got up immediately and continued with the challenge - that's the stuff Viruses are made off (even the Gals, as witnessed last week!). Corner after corner; round after round, finally it was the 55th round, then 56th, 57th, I started to push harder and swung my arms. By then, I had cramps on both shins and a serious back ache. I persevered and gathered all the energy I had and finished the last lap. The "Chew Viruses" did very well and all others completed the rounds with much valour.

Many Viruses broke their own records and rookies set new ones. Virus Physio helped me with my shin discomfort. It was a remarkable day because we all fought hard and finished our dizzy 59 rounds surely and bravely. Great job Viruses!! Until next one, push ahhh….