About the land of the Midnight Sun

I knew where we wanted to go, once we had disembarked from the cruise ship Crown of Scandinavia.

We needed to get to the train station so that we can book our seats on that train to Bergen.

So we spoke to the train staff and realised that we had to make changes to our plan. Our original intention was to stay two nights in Oslo and then make a day's journey by train to Bergen. We reach there in the late evening, spend one night there, and then catch the first train back to Oslo.

This itinerary, I realised, could very well have made our whole journey irrelevant. A few hours in Bergen would have deprived us of the time and space needed to view the spectacular sights that Norway is renowned for - its majestic fjords.

So I had a word with my wife, made a few calls to the youth hostels in Oslo and Bergen, paid for the train tickets, and voila! Our plan is now perfect.

After making the changes, I would spend just one night in Oslo, and have much more time in Bergen. And we're glad we made those necessary changes.

Anyway, we were still very early, so we decided to roam around the city centre before checking into our youth hostel. We found a luggage storage facility in the train station and chucked our bulky bags in there. We were glad to be rid of those weights.






After that, we proceeded to the tourist information centre to get more essential information, such as public transport information and a good map of central Oslo. This is the tourist information centre:




From there, we walked down the bustling main spine of Oslo city. It was already swarming with hordes of people. This street, Karl Johan's Gate, is the equivalent of Singapore's Orchard Road:






Along the way we took some pictures of the menu placed outside a chinese restaurant. Maybe you can take a look at the prices and gape at the high costs.






It could be due to the hot weather that might have driven these young men to strip and ride a horse. Queer but hilarious!




Further down the street there was a day market, and the bread on display looked really irresistable. It is as if these golden bread loaves were fit for gods.




Along the way, we took a breather at Hard Rock Cafe, and enjoyed a ice-cool vanilla milk shake:




Here's the City Hall:




Here's the tram that works very efficiently in the city centre. We took one of these trams to a famous park that is the home to countless sculptures of human beings, the work of one man whose ashes are kept near his masterpieces.




Anyway, while waiting for the tram, my wife took this picture of this giant and me, being very lanky myself, find myself looking very ordinary beside this man.




Here are some of the sculptures. It's in the emotions etched on the faces of these humans. They seem to convey a whole gamut of emotions - happiness, struggle, sadness and joy.








Along the way, plenty of youths were laid out on the lush green grass in the wide open parks, some content to relax, while some were playing a sport.




We were quite exhausted by then, and we decided to head back to the train station to retrieve our backpacks, then walk to the bus terminal to catch the bus to our youth hostel. Our youth hostel is located 8km outside the city centre. This wasn't ideal, but I was left with no choice as all the hostels with the best locations were already fully booked. Nevertheless, we were still happy, as the hostel was located in a very peaceful part of Oslo and it was a pleasant environment to get much rest!

It may come as a surprise to many, but even late at night, the sky is still bright. In fact, it never gets dark, and that's because in summer, the comforting light of the sun never recedes. By the early hours of the morning, the sun rises again. Norway is located far north in the globe and in the upper reaches of the country, the sun literally never sets during the summer.











Breakfast was a very simple affair, with bread, butter, cereals and hot drinks:






After a hearty breakfast, we checked out of the hostel, took the bus back to the city centre, to take the train to Bergen.






Finally, we were about to embark on a 7-hour train journey, from Oslo to Bergen. Never did we expect that this train journey, claimed by travel guides as one of the most scenic in Europe, would be so breathtaking, as the train brought us along lakes, ice-swept landscapes and white mountains.

It is fitting, then, to end off with this thoughtful and positive quote that was written on this fence in the Oslo youth hostel.

About the sea journey to the lands of the Norse gods

Before I can even start on an entry on Oslo, I think the Copenhagen - Oslo journey itself deserves an entry of its own.

While planning for this whole trip (with the laptop in front of me), I was mulling on what would be a great way to travel to Oslo from Copenhagen with my dearest one.

Of course, we could take the plane, where it'd be cheaper and faster. We could also take the train, but it would take too long, since Norway and Denmark are separated by the sea and there is no land bridge connecting these two countries.

Finally, I settled on the ferry service that plies between these two cities. I thought that a ferry ride would make the whole experience richer (though it was very expensive - over a thousand dollars just for the two of us!). Budget is important, but experience is priceless. And so, without any further delay, I promptly booked a pair of return ferry tickets.

And so, after spending a night in Copenhagen, we were due to depart for Oslo. At 4pm (Denmark time), the giant cruise ship Crown of Scandinavia set sail for the overnight sea journey to Oslo, the capital city of Norway.




We captured some photos as the ship departed from the terminal:










Dinner was not too bad. Our initial fears that we would be eating bread again proved unfounded, as we were offered some offerings of warm food - pasta and meatballs were my favourite. Nothing that is close to Asian food, of course, but we were still able to enjoy dinner tremendously. Everyone around us seemed to be sipping copious amounts of wines and beer, and when the waiter came to our table to recommend his choicest wines, we politely declined. We would love to drink of course, but the wines were priced out of our wallets! We had skyjuice and we were more than pleased with that, of course.

Sitting next to the window made the experience much more memorable.






My dearest needed a hairdryer, so she asked the Info Desk for help in this area, and they had one hairdryer to loan us!




Our accomodation on the ship is nothing to shout about. While booking the return tickets for this trip on the internet, I had simply booked the most economical tickets, not realising that the cheapest tickets meant rooms with NO windows! We had a good laugh about it!




The next day, we got up and really looked forward to a hearty breakfast!





The coffee and tea were great and having eggs, sausages and hash browns on my plate was worth rejoicing! And nope, I didn't touch any bread at all.

The ship was very large, with ten levels. Many of the levels are set aside for bunks, while there was one level set aside for cars and tour buses, but there was a duty-free shop, numerous bars and cafes, a LAN gaming shop, a cinema and a deck that commanded a view of the sea. It's a pity that the ship did not have a gym.






We were due to arrive at Oslo at half past 9 in the morning. As we moved into the vicinity of the city, we could see countless sailboats on the gentle sea. It was clear that the Norwegians were really enjoying the summer weather.








It was with great anticipation when we breathed in the fresh air of Oslo. Nope it wasn't cold at all. It was truly pleasant weather - right in the peak of summer in northern Europe. We were all set to continue our journey. Next post!

About picking out my thoughts swirling in my head

It's been a long day at the army camp.

Trudging back home from a late dinner, I was ready to hit the bed, but I had to tear myself away, as a full laundry of clothes beckoned at me. So, I had to start the washing machine and get the laundry done!

It's the first day of in-camp training for me. Though there are many meetings and trainings to plan and conduct, I am really looking forward to it, because it allows me to take a break from my normal routine of life and dip my hands into new skills and management issues that my appointment allows me.



I do so dearly want to pen down my thoughts on Norway and I have tonnes of photos, but I will have to do this time-consuming task on another day, perhaps the weekend.

But I certainly do have time to reflect on how the holidays have been like for me.

I have to admit, even though I was away on a holiday in northern Europe, my thoughts would still be with my basketball boys. I must say that I could have worried endlessly, but thank God I have the wonderful Ms Ivy who is ever so helpful to cover my duties when I was away. Oh if only the world's people are of such generosity and helpfulness!

Another event of note was the Sharing Session on the Young Leaders' Day that was planned entirely by the Sec 3 Peer Leaders. In case you were wondering where that booming sound came from on 15th Jun Friday afternoon, it's my Peer Leaders thundering the skies with their cheers.

I am not sure what's the magic with captain's ball, but it's fast becoming Fajar's all-time favourite sport and I think the PLs are quite a force to be reckoned with, judging from the way they play. Go Team Peer Leaders!

Special credit must go to the organisers and presenters - Hudz, Andreyana, Didie, and Shasha. We learnt many things, including how to order pizza! (don't ask me, go ask Andreyana!)

It was good to have the Sec 4 PLs too. As a word of advice, do remember, at this critical juncture of your life, your O Level preparations is undoubtedly the most important thing. So whatever you do, make sure you set aside time to revise and perfect your Sec 3 and 4 subject knowledge. Do not settle with being average. Be extraordinary and do well for your Prelims and O Levels, ok?

And oh, I would like to see the photos that Afiqah has taken during the Sharing Session, so if anyone has the photos, get in touch with me and let me have a look at the pictures!



A final reminder to the Peer Leaders:
1. You have to get in touch with Mr Elamaran and Mr Kelvin Ong, on the first day of school, and find out the details of the Citi-MILK Run. You are not just running in this charity event; you are assisting the teachers too so please check with the Teachers about how you can help!

2. As stated in the meeting, the Peer Leaders need to meet and plan for the Inter-House Sec 2 Captain's Ball championships. I'm not sure if the Sec 2s are very keen on this event, but I think I want to organise this event and I am confident that the PLs will not let their standard down and they will do their best to plan properly so that this will be an outstanding success.

PLs, I am not in the business of being average, so whatever you do must make the School blush with pride.

Therefore I expect you to hold meetings. Remember the deadline for the proposals is on Youth Week Saturday - 29th June 1800hrs.


That's it. The laundry is waiting for me now.

About a trip to the far side of the world

It didn't take us long to decide where we wanted to travel, when we were planning on where to head to for the June holidays.

Of course, exotic places like Barcelona and Moscow came to mind, but when we checked the availability of the flights, they were already fully booked, and that gave us no chance.

Looking at the world map, we figured that travelling half a world away, to Scandinavia, should be just as good. After all, Singapore Airlines flies to Denmark's capital city, Copenhagen, thrice weekly. And thank God, we managed to secure 2 seats for ourselves on the plane.

But the real reason was that Copenhagen is but a launching pad for our foray into the majestic fjords of neighbouring Norway. We'd read about it and seen pictures in books, but nothing beats seeing them with your own eyes.




The plane trip took a tiring 11.5 hours. We were glad to set our feet on firm ground, here at Copenhagen's Kastrup International Airport.






Here's a main town square, right in the city centre.








We stayed at a youth hostel, called Danhostel Copenhagen Amager. It's very simple to book your accomodation abroad. Any good travel guides will recommend a few decent hostels, so just pick one, and make the booking on its website with a credit card.





Breakfast cost us 45 Danish kroner, which is equivalent to about 15 dollars. And what do you get for that amount of money?



Very exciting, isn't it. I think we've never eaten so much bread in our lives, just to fill our gnawing hunger.

We knew how expensive Denmark and Norway would be, and spending a week there has reminded me soberly that prices in Singapore for almost all products and services are definitely much more affordable than Europe.




At the same time, there was a group of students who stayed at the hostel as well, and here's some of them having breakfast with us.






Anyway, the summer weather was blisteringly hot. This is the picture of the Copenhagen sky - complete sunshine, without any clouds at all.




Here's a picture of our room in the youth hostel. It's a double room, meant for 2 persons. Of course, they have 4-bed rooms, 6-bed rooms and even 8-bed ones, which are of course much cheaper. This room is very comfortable and is good enough for us. All we needed was a roof over our head with a decent shower!



As we roamed along the streets of Copenhagen, we managed to speak to a few people and we were delighted to know that the Danish people speak very clear English.




This is Monica and her son, Elmo. She had just returned from the market and was busy arranging some of her newly bought plants to decorate her new home that you see in the picture.

We stopped for lunch at a Danish eatery. A trip to another country would be incomplete without tasting some local delicacy, correct. We looked at the menu and all we saw were sandwiches and more bread!




By then we were pining for some proper Singapore food, and we missed chilli! We ordered a sandwich and a fish, and that cost us 180 DKK (Danish kroner), which is about 50 Singapore dollars. Uh huh. That's why we didn't bother to order any drinks!



Before we left we took a picture with the waitresses.



The next day, we were due to leave for Oslo, the capital city of Norway. Instead of taking the plane, I actually booked an overnight cruise ship.




Before we checked in at the cruise centre, we had to pay a visit to the beautiful mermaid. Some say that this is the symbol of Copenhagen.

Hundreds of years ago, sailors passing by would confess their sins to this mermaid and it would make them feel better.

You might have read a really good book called the Mermaid. I've read it before, and it's quite tragic.





Here's a picture of a boy we met at the youth hostel. He's absolutely adorable.



After spending a day in Copenhagen, we moved on to Oslo. That's where the journey really began. But I'll save that for the next post.

About wanting to say something, then something happened...

"Dear, look to your right. There's someone sitting there that you'd recognise. Don't make it obvious!" I whispered to my wife, looking nonchalantly at another direction.

She's very good, my missus. She took a casual glance and then looked back at me, her eyes signalling that she knew who I was talking about.




Ronald Susilo was sitting at the next table, to our right.


Halfway through our breakfast at the coffeeshop, we agreed that we'd go up to him and tell him that we're proud of him playing for our country.

But then, before we could think of what exactly to say, he got up and left. From the corner of our eyes, we visually stalked him till he reached for his car that was parked just outside the coffeeshop.

Oh well.



Ronald has been working his socks off and has done well in international competitions. He has certainly helped to put Singapore on the global badminton scene. Another good news is that we have others too, such as Kendrick Lee, who is a very promising player himself.

Singapore has got world champions in bowling, silat and sailing in recent years. We are the regional champions in soccer. Our swimming team boasts an Asian Games gold medallist. We have a fantastic shooting team.

The problem is that some people still think sport has got no future. It can't earn them a decent livelihood.

Nonsense.

Think again. Singapore has a blossoming sports industry. We've got Republic Polytechnic offering sports diplomas. We've got a very proactive Singapore Sports Council. We've got a new Sports Hub ready by the next decade. We've got the very exciting Formula 1 night street race next year. There's even talk of a hotel that might be built with a sports theme.

Opportunities abound.

Things are looking up for sports in Singapore.

If you've always been critical of our local sports athletes and programmes, then I ask you: what have you done to contribute?




Schools are asked to play a part and the sports community acknowledges that students play a huge role in making Singapore a sports-loving nation.




I see fanatical supporters lining along the streets of Monaco during the F1 race. I see packed stadiums during the Wimbledon championships in London. I see vociferous crowds thronging the roads at the New York Marathon.

The people there obviously have got something right. The sense of national spirit, fun and sport is very strong.

I think we can do that - our way, our style - here in Singapore.

About a long long bicycle ride

I barely made it home yesterday evening.

All I really wanted was to wash off all the grime and get some good rest!

When I signed up for 128km Bike Rally organised by the NTU Sports Club in March, I thought nothing of the distance involved.

On hindsight, it turned out to be somewhat tougher that what I expected.

The Bike Rally is not a competitive event. It is 'only' a 128km bicycle long-distance event that took us round Singapore, touching the 4 ends of the island.


I registered for this event without realising that the last time I cycled properly was well over 5 years ago, back in my university days in England.



The Rally kicked off at 0700 at East Coast Beach Food Centre. From there, the 400-strong cycling contingent moved en masse for the first leg of the journey - along East Coast beach, towards the city, past Mountbatten Road, Nicoll Highway, past the monumental Singapore Flyer, past the Esplanade, down Shenton Highway, past Vivocity, and reached the first checkpoint - Labrador Park.

The break last merely 10 minutes even though the first leg took about an hour. The lead cyclist took off again for the second leg of the Rally. I quickly put on my helmet and scampered off, determined not to be left at the back of the pack.

I still felt good, but because my bicyle was a single-speed bicycle, cycling on straight, flat roads become very tedious. Many other cyclists, with their more advanced multi-speed bicycles, easily overtook me. It's not that big a problem, anyway. But the difference is very telling: The leading pack of cyclists were soon out of my sight - so superior were their bicycles.


From Labrador, we cycled down West Coast Road, into Jurong Port Road, Pioneer Road, past the ghostly silent industrial parks of Jurong, past the fringes of Jurong West, and stopped at NTU's Sports and Recreation Centre for the next rest point.

By then the sun's withering heat was visibly taking its toll on some of the cyclists. I replenished my fluids and gratefully munched on some sandwiches. I was feeling really hungry and very parched.

The second leg (from Labrador Park to NTU) took well over an hour-fifteen minutes of non-stop road cycling - no easy task!

After a half-an-hour rest at NTU, we took off again, from NTU to the expansive roads of Lim Chu Kang (where massive trucks sped past us, rattling our bicycles), past the cemetries, into Neo Tiew Road, past the farms, and to my great relief, we stopped at Kranji Dam for the next break. This third leg was much easier than the second leg. It was certainly much shorter (about 45 minutes), and much more enjoyable, as this route took us past the peaceful and tranquil greenery of this isolated part of Singapore.

At Kranji Dam, Johor Bahru was hazily visible on our left side as we took a breather. Then we proceeded on the fourth leg of the Rally. We went into the Sungei Kadut industrial region, the dusty Woodlands Road, and the nightmare part of the race: Mandai Road.

Mandai Road is an endless and unforgiving road - unimaginably long, fringed by endless rows of trees on either side.

But what took the stuffing out of me were 2 slopes - the gradients were not very steep but the slopes were as far as my eye could see. That meant relentless pedalling just to keep my bicycle moving. Along the way I laboured past exhausted cyclists who had already given up cycling and were pushing their bikes up the slope.

With every push of the pedal, I remembered telling my PE classes about getting to the top of the slope as quick as possible during the 2.4km race. With this piece of advice echoing in my head, I grinded my way up, pushing out all thoughts of slowing down.

Reaching the top of these slopes took the wind out of me. Even as I tried to regain my breath, it was hard to control my panting, after all that effort to clear those slopes.

We cycled past the Mandai SAF military camp and the Zoo.

From the crippling Mandai Road stretch, we headed into Yishun Avenue 1, went past Orchid Country Club, and finally turned into Yishun Stadium carpark, for the next rest point. The time taken for the fourth leg? One hour and a half.

By then my joints were creaking. Even my arms were locking up, stiff from gripping the handle bars. My quads were beginning to get very tight - not a good sign at all.

I consumed vast amounts of water - knowing that hydration is critical for muscles to go on working longer.

From Yishun, we wearily climbed onto our bikes and moved off again, for the fifth leg of the arduous journey. This time, we continued all the way to the end of Yishun Avenue 1, into Seletar Camp, down Jalan Kayu, into Sengkang, past the new flats, into Upper Serangoon Road, and stopped at Serangoon Secondary School. This journey again exceeded the one-hour mark.

It's the same scene over and over again - bikes left by the wayside as exhausted cyclists massaged their tired muscles, munching on bananas and sandwiches, drinking Gatorade and water feverishly. Some were staring into blank space, while others were lying down. Quite a few were talking about the long distances, their tired limbs, the hot weather. I steered clear of such unmotivating and useless chatter that served no purpose.

I refused to sit. I remained standing, moving around here and there to soothe the arms and legs. I did not want to do anything that would jeopardise the momentum. If I sat down, my muscles would certainly 'shut down' and lock up into cramps.

I looked at those whose eyes remained alert. There were a few. I marvelled at their strength, which must reach great depths from their inner beings.

A large bus soon halted outside the school. Quite a great number, perhaps 20 - 30, alighted and I soon recognised some of them as they had been next to me when we started the Rally in the morning. I realised that they had dropped out of the Rally, perhaps due to fatigue or heat exhaustion. They certainly looked glum. It must feel terrible to drop out.

I told myself that I must finish this thing. I steeled myself for the next leg of the Rally.

Once I saw the lead cyclists moving into position, I clipped on my helmet, wore my Oakleys, tightened my gloves and moved into position. Of course I was tired, but I would rather stay with them and finish this one helluva race than to linger behind with the stragglers and fall far behind.

From Serangoon, at about 2pm, we cycled into Hougang Avenue 7, and turned into Tampines Road, past Giant, Ikea, into Pasir Ris, into Loyang Avenue, past Changi Village, and finally stopped at Changi Beach Car Park for our final rest-point.

By then, I was numb. My muscles were literally burning up. My head was spinning and throbbing against the helmet, even though I drank so much. My shoulders and neck were darkened red and I was too tired to splash sunblock. Utterly foolish.

From there, we would be cycling back to East Coast Beach - the finish line. But there was another massive hurdle - the endless stretch of Changi Coast Road. This road is immeasurably long. It took me a good 15 minutes just to cycle from the start to the end of this road. From there we hit the very start of East Coast Beach cycling track, going past National Sailing Centre, OBS, PA Sports Club, Bedok Jetty and finally crossed the finish line at just over 5.00pm.

I was bloody glad to cross that line.

We took off at 7am and returned back at 5pm. In that span of time we hit the 4 corners of Singapore.

Excluding the rest time, I was on the bicycle today cycling for a grand total of 7 hours 30 minutes.



I don't know if I'll do this again next year. Give me cycling anytime, but today's Rally really takes the cake. I'll probably stick to running next time!



But I'm very proud. Listen, I finished this 128 km Rally with a single-speed bike.

This single-speed bicycle is a gift from my dad so I really have no qualms about using it again. Of course, I could have rented a multi-speed bike, knowing that it's far easier.

But then again, the glory and pride is greater now, isn't it, now that I've conquered this race with a 'primitive' machine.

Anyway, some of the cyclists remarked to me, 'you solid ah, cycle with single-speed bike!' 'Wow, I noticed you're on a single-speed bike.' 'Wahhh, you god ah, so steady!' 'My bike cost me $4K you know. How much your bike?' Hilarious.

Mine is free of charge, thank you.



This is probably the toughest physical test I've undertaken so far.

And I'm glad I passed it. It's been a tremendous experience. Nah. I've no regrets at all about joining this bike Rally. Yea it's tough, it's damn tiring, but it's also fun.

What a good way to end the term, eh?

About IHG photos and your blog links

Even though the IHG Captain's Ball championship was a great success, there was a slight regret.

I had neglected to appoint an official photographer for the event!

So if you have any photos of the event - whether they are photos of the players, officials, teachers, supporters etc - as long as the photos are related to the event, I would appreciate it if you could share them with me.

Do email me your photos at hoyuken17@hotmail.com. I hope to compile an album!

Do help spread the word around too. Thank you!


Also, I've noticed some of the blog links are no longer valid. If you've changed your blog address and you would like me to link you, I will be glad to, so drop me a message under the 'comments' section with your new blog address. Cheers.

About the Fajarian spirit - unleashed

I've never witnessed such scenes before.

Hordes of students were cheering their teams ceaselessly. On the court, running battles were played out, chasing down every ball.

Every goal scored was met with a crescendo of cheers.



Organising this Inter-House Captain's Ball Championship worked. The players were raring to go. So many people wanted to be a part of it.

I was nailed to every game. Many players played beyond their limits, fighting exhaustion under the withering heat of the afternoon sun.

The match schedule was very punishing, and understandably so, since there were so many matches to complete in one afternoon.



I must thank my Peer Leaders. Their hard work allowed the event to run smoothly, and Mr Maran, Mr Ong and I fully trusted in them.

I have to thank my esteemed colleagues, Mr Maran and Mr Ong. Did you see those brilliant goals scored by Mr Maran in the Goodwill match? Awesome!

I have to thank the players. This championship brought out the best in many of them.


Some faced defeat with tremendous courage and positivity. Truly that is the mark of resilience.

Congratulations to the teams that did well. You played really well today!

To all the teams, in my mind, I consider you equally successful. In victory or defeat, you kept your heads up and never gave up. With such an attitude, victory will come sooner than later.

Have a good rest, you all.

Thank you for making this championship a resounding success.

About the IHG Captain's Ball Championships

FAJAR INTER-HOUSE SECONDARY 3
Captain’s Ball Championships
23rd May 2007

information for student officials

OFFICIALS:

Timekeeper: Eun Jin
Crowd Control: Hanisah, Oo Thu, Shahiddin
Scorers: Finah, Nazurah
Umpires: Huda, Veron, Sufian, Zulklifi
Safety: Finah, Nazurah, Shahiddin
Overall I/C: Mr Maran, Mr Kelvin Ong, Mr Ken Ng


LOGISTICS:

Masking tape x 01 roll
Cones
Chairs x 04
Whistles for all officials
Clipboards for all officials
Yellow and Red cards for all officials
Water-bottle for all officials
Netballs x 03
Coloured bands
Writing materials
A-Frame to put up score charts (check with Ms Cheryl)
Loudhailer x 01


CAPTAIN’S BALL: RULES OF THE GAME

Duration: 10 mins per match

Start
1. The ball starts from the centre of the court with a jump ball.
2. All players are to remain in their own half of the court before the first pass is taken.

Infringement
1. A player is only allowed to take 1 step with the ball. After which, she can only move with one feet planted on the same spot.
2. Players are not allowed to dribble the ball.
3. Opponent must be at least 1 metre from the player with the ball. (distance is measured from feet to feet)
4. Opponents are not allowed to contact the player with the ball in any way.
5. Violation of the above rules will result in a free pass or shot to the opposing team.

Substitution
1. There is no limit to the number of times a player may come on to the court to substitute another player.

Scoring
1. To score, the Captain must hold the ball firmly and remain on the bench for 3 seconds.

Umpire
1. The umpire’s decision is final.
2. The umpire may impose rules not covered above at his or her discretion to ensure the safety and fairness of the game. In such a situation, the other teams will be informed of this decision and the rules will remain in force until the end of the carnival.
3. The umpire may, at his or her discretion, send off a player who behaves in an unsportsmanlike manner.

About pushing on, till the end

Keep holding on to those revision plans, 4E5.

You've promised to the Teachers, to your parents, maybe even to your friends, and most importantly, to yourself. You have made that sacred promise to study, to revise, to understand, to perfect.

If you've strove and stumbled badly at this Mid Year Examinations, then choose to be a winner. Pick yourself up, brush off the dust, and keep moving forward.



NEVER ever lose sight of the ultimate goal you dream of.

The road ahead will be tough. You will face obstacles again and again, from within and from without, that will threaten to impede your progress.

You must keep your eye on the end-goal - and that is success at the O Levels.

This is the grandest prize of all, lofty yet attainable.

Work with the Teachers. Change the ways you study.

Just keep doing it. Don't stop!

Success may just be a fingertip away. Just reach out, lean forward, stretch your dreams.



There may yet be a happy ending for you all.

About irresistable yet expensive toys

Last week I went on a mad splurge.

For the longest time my hands have been itching to spend on gadgets. So many times I have been tempted to get that red ipod Nano. That Tivoli DAB radio at Tangs looks irresistable. The soon-to-be launched Bluetooth Sony DVD Micro Hifi looks tailor-made for my apartment.

It's taken all my willpower to restrain myself. Sometimes when I am seemingly overpowered by the spending urges, my wife would bring me back to earth by asking, "Do we really need it?"

The answer would be a no and that would be the end of the struggle.

It's not that I need anyone's permission to buy things, but you know, it's actually very wise to have someone who can be very rational in the money matters in life.

Just as my missus curbs my lust for electronic gadgets, I also do my part and return the favour too.

Like, whenever she comes home with a new pair of shoes or new clothes, sometimes I'd ask in jest, "Do we still have space?"

At times she would answer with a glare.



Anyway I am proud to announce to myself that my wife and I are the proud owners of a powerful digital camera - the Canon Ixus 850IS. That cost quite a bit! It has a host of advanced features such as a beautiful large LCD screen and a superb 7.1MP worth of power. I have to say a huge thanks to my beloved Uncle Vincent who works at Cathay Photo Pte Ltd. He gave me an unbelievable discount that was absolutely unbeatable.

Then a couple of days later, a Sony catalogue found its way into my postbox. Gleefully I browsed through this book and literally salivated at all those Sony products - the VAIO notebooks, the gorgeous LCD TVs, the earphones. Everything looks so good. Darn!

But what arrested my attention was this new Sony MP3 walkman. It comes in 5 ravishing colours, in the right size, at the right price, with the right features.

On the very same day, I headed straight to Harvey Norman West Mall, and went for the Black 4GB Sony MP3 player. It is the size of a USB thumb-drive but it will be a perfect companion when I resume my regular runs.



All in all, I am mightily pleased with my conquests but I am not satiated yet. That usually spells trouble. That means, if I ever land myself in those electronic stores again, and happen to lay my eyes on that Sony DVD Micro hifi (when it arrives into our shores in a fortnight's time), I might be overwhelmed with lust again and find myself lugging home a new set.



I wonder what my missus would say to me if that happens?

About falling short at the critical moment

Currently in: my hut
Currently listening to: Tears For Fears' Shout



Moments after stepping out from a lesson, I asked myself, 'did my students understand the lesson I had taught just now?'

It wasn't an easy lesson; full of hard facts, dominated by my presence and head-on teaching.

It's not exactly the best lesson of the year.

But the crunch was this: it was a culmination of a series of lessons, where I returned the marked scripts to the students, and I did the review with them. Examinations begin on Thursday and I know my teaching time with them is running out.




But the students wavered.

It was only 35 minutes. But some of their attention withered. In the torrent of information, the strong and the steady remained afloat. Some, for lack of willpower, sank.





Back in the Staff Room, I had a brief chat with a colleague. We were talking about the same class, and he was concerned about the short attention spans of some of the students. He expects his students to be able to stay with him throughout the lesson, or at least make some semblance of an effort to do so. But what he sees is that some students fall by the wayside far too easily. They lose their focus on the teacher and precious teaching points are lost.




To achieve consistent good performances in work, play and in school, a key quality that a teenager must possess is the ability to pay attention.

It is not about whether you can or you cannot. It has never been about that.

It's whether you want to do it.

Those that excel, do it, even beyond mental fatigue, even beyond the limits of boredom, when their interest in the subject is already exhausted.

Those that succeed in sport or in studies are unwavering in their attention to the teacher.

There is a close inter-relationship between sports and studies. Students who excel in their sports (for example, in some independent schools) are no slouch in the academics department either.

It turns out that these sportsmen - already keen in the ability to focus in competitions and matches - transfer this skill into the classroom. Their ability to focus on the teacher allows them to succeed in major examinations.




To my students:

I left the classroom today full of doubts. It's just my gut feeling, and like what I had taught you in the past, your gut feeling can be very accurate. I just didn't know whether you understood my lesson or not. I just couldn't figure out if you even wanted to learn.

Maybe you want to tell me what was your takeaway from the lesson today?


There's no doubt, absolutely: today's lesson was meant to pave the way for you towards better performances in your work, when the majority of you have been mediocre, at best.

Those that stayed with me and took down notes, good for you!




However, I know this for sure: my fellow teachers sure are giving their best to you. They are.


Even if it means depleting all our energy for the day, just to be able to teach you and prepare you for the O Levels.



But in return, we want to know, we want to see, we want to feel, we want to be sure about this:

Show us that you are willing to learn from us, every single bit.

Show us that you take school seriously.

Don't judge the teachers. Put aside all assumptions. Quit saying this or that extra lesson is useless. It ain't helping. Not one single bit.





My point is this: To perform well in school and in your workplace in the future, you need to have the ability to pay attention.
It's not whether you can or cannot. It is about wanting to do it and being willing to focus on the teacher.

Teachers all know what are the ingredients of a successful Fajarian.

And, being able to give your full attention is probably one of the most crucial ingredients of all.

4E5, don't falter now.

It has been said by your teachers before: you all have massive talent and potential. It is only with consistent hard work that will unlock and unleash that which is in you.

You can do it.

All the best to your examination preparation. Take good care.

About my boys

It's been almost 5 years since I took over the helm of Basketball CCA.

Before I stepped in, Basketball CCA then (in the early 2000s) consisted of rag-tag, scruffy boys. Training was not monitored, players came as they wished, and they produced no results, save for one year when they reached the last 4 of the Zone tournament. Many of them turned up for training in slippers.

As soon as I took over, it was very clear to me: I had to get rid of the ah-beng culture. I had to tighten so many things. I implemented a slew of changes, centralising control back to the Teacher, changing the coach, developing team spirit, and emphasising the essence of commitment and loyalty to the School.

The Basketball CCA today is much better. Departed coaches have always commented to me that our Fajar team is so much more disciplined and teachable than some schools they knew.

I am also concerned about the fact that our CCA has not produced any results yet. We are not consistent. Yes, we have improved by leaps and bounds in how we have run the CCA. Coaches are closely monitored and evaluated. Players' attendance records are closely tracked. Recognition - in the form of awards and wearing school colours in competitions - is duly given.

An immediate area I need to see more and more is the area of student leadership - capable ones who put the School's interests first. It would be marvellous if I have many Peer Leaders, Prefects, and/ or Class Committee members in our midst.

For this to happen, basketball players must have ambition - the ambition for personal development. Basketball alone cannot provide this. Only by being involved in school events, leadership camps, daily duties - these will strengthen the mettle within each player and allow them to unleash their potential.



I admire my basketball boys. They have an unquenchable love for the sport. This is really excellent, because the constant practice improves their confidence, but it will not necessarily improve their skills.

For their skills to improve, every player must remember and apply the coach's advice and teaching points towards them.




If there's an area that my basketballers needs to improve on, it's their ability to be considered a true all-rounded student.

Don't get me wrong. Their passion for basketball cannot be questioned.

But critically, my general observation (which many of my colleagues agree with) is that these players are sacrificing valuable time to play basketball, when they should actually be studying for the all-important Mid Year Examinations.

Players, I need you to think very clearly - a good basketballer trains very hard during training, and also does his schoolwork on time, pays attention in class, and is gentlemanly to others.

Do you not realise that you cannot study when you're so tired, after playing the sport every other day, if not every day?

Why play so much, when the exams are so near?

Your examinations are far far more important than basketball.

Your examinations determine your future. Basketball doesn't.




If my players produce good results in their tests and examinations consistently, I would gladly call them true all-rounders.

Mixing sport and studies (and excelling in both) is a key life-skill that my players must work on.



Guys - it's time to put away the basketball.

It's time to study.





My life as a Teacher in Fajar is closely intertwined with Basketball. I will continue to do my best for them. They deserve it. They are all boys with massive potential in them.

My vision for these boys is that they become very good in their studies, develop into skilful players, and serve the School as student leaders with a spirit of humility and joy.

If I do leave Fajar, in the near future or in the distant (one never knows for sure), starting my life elsewhere will not be same. I know I will miss Basketball trainings.

About her smouldering dreams

I was walking across the general office lobby area when I came across this student who had just finished her afternoon lessons.

She greeted me, and naturally, I returned the greeting warmly, and I stood there and had a conversation with her.

I asked her about her CA1 results. She shared that her results were quite decent - all passes except for one subject. She added that this time round, she has made a vast improvement compared to previous performances.

But what got me really engaged was her reply, when I went on to ask her if her parents allowed her to continue playing in her favourite sport, netball.

She had told me previously that she struggled to comply with her parents' strict objection to her playing netball, citing reasons like major examinations in her graduating year.

I had advised her to work very hard for her CA1, and if she succeeded, her good results might serve to persuade her parents to soften their stance and allow her to continue the netball club training.

Unfortunately, in spite of her decent results, her parents were still adamant and refused to change their mind.

As she spoke to me, her words were lined with sadness, melancholy and resignation.

I really wished I could help, but the sobering reality is that this is an internal family matter and the School cannot interfere.

I have the pleasure of knowing this student and to be frank, I really think she's a good student. Like so many other likeable Fajarians, she's humble, down-to-earth, sporty and affable.





We didn't talk for long. But I'm glad I took the opportunity to have a few words with her. I know she dearly loves her sport and it must be very hard for her to be deprived from playing in her favourite sport.

I do hope that things will get better for her, and I wish that her old, bubbly self will return.

About my sporty Basketballers and the spontaneous Dancers

Currently in: Pacific Coffee Company, Parkway Parade
Currently listening to: Stone Temple Pilots' Interstate Love Song



Again, it poured.

That meant that we could not commence our annual B Boys Basketball Free-Throw Shooting competition.

I knew my boys were all geared up for it. So was I!

Nonetheless, being the sports-loving bunch that we all are, we proceeded to the Hall, where the Dance Club members were busy practicing their routine for the SYF competition.

I figured that since there was a thunderstorm outside, I might as well have a captain’s ball game with the boys.

Still, I thought I should consult with their beautiful teacher in-charge and check with her if it’s ok to use the far side of the Hall for our game. I certainly did not want to interrupt their dance practice.

She agreed, though she warned me cheekily that the ball must never hit one of her girls. That’s quite a challenge so I instructed my boys go after any loose ball that might threaten to go anywhere near to the dancers!

I also told my boys that we’ll stop the game whenever the dancers get into formation to rehearse their routine. I think everybody in Basketball CCA is very willing to support the dancers.

Moments later , the dancers, in their lovely polite selves, greeted me. So I told the boys to return the warm greetings to their teacher in-charge and say, “GOOD AFTERNOON MS YONG”, and also to say to the dancers, “TRAIN HARD, GIRLS.”

It’s hilarious. The boys stood in the straight line, facing the teacher and the dancers who were at the opposite end of the Hall, and managed to pull off the greeting to the Teacher, but made quite a mess about the second part.

The girls giggled in puzzlement at the apparent mumblings and my boys were quickly reshaping themselves to repeat their words.

Before they could do so, the dancers chorused back, “WHAT?” to us.

Needless to say my boys were quite embarrassed and some were quite bewildered at what to do next!

And before my players could make any more moves, the girls then said, in unison, “GOOD AFTERNOON BOYS,” at which my boys stood up straight again and, for the first time, managed to talk coherently to the girls. They greeted back to them, “GOOD AFTERNOON GIRLS!”



I chuckled. Fajar’s dancers are quite spontaneous. My boys could do with a little bit of that!



We managed to have quite an enjoyable game in the Hall. The elegant softballers and Mr Maran joined us for the game. At 5pm, we dashed to the basketball court to start the free throw competition.

It was nail-biting at times and my boys put up outstanding individual performances. It’s very clear: this competition will remind the players about the importance of having the correct technique in skills. Those with consistently good technique will always score better than those who don’t.

Secondly, and more importantly, this competition will teach the players about how to handle the pressure of shooting the ball into the basket. That requires the ability to focus on the basket and to shut out the peripheral noises and sounds from around. By staying cool and controlling anxiety, a player will definitely perform at a consistently higher standard than someone who is easily distracted and is not focused.






By the time I left school at 7.30pm, it was already quite dark. The school was empty now, except for some colleagues who were waiting for me. We planned to have our dinner at Holland Village.

I felt good. I think Friday was a very satisfying day for me.

It must be because of the students in Fajar.

And, to my boys’ credit, not once did the ball hit the dancers while we were playing in the Hall. The Dance teacher will be pleased to know that!

About this conversation with a student

Currently in: my hut
Currently listening to: Goo Goo Dolls' Let Love In

For some reason, I noticed this student, sitting by a corner, looking into space.

I shouldn't have noticed at all, not when I had my basketball boys reporting to me before heading to Assumption English school for a friendly match at that time.

But one glance at the student and I could sense that not all was right, and so I strode over and sat myself, right next to the student, and we talked for a little while.

From the short conversation, it emerged that this student is almost close to buckling under the pressures of the daily SYF practises. Add in the crippling ACTs and the exhausting homework, and any lesser student would have found it too much to bear.

But not this student. I think this student is made of much sterner material.

To my students in 4E5 rehearsing very hard for their SYF performances: The going is tough but the actual day performance will hinge on the intensive trainings and practises that you attend over this critical period of time.

It may seem all too much, but believe me, this testing time will make you a stronger person when you come out of it.

Keep going and when it all threatens to boil over and you feel like caving in, talk to someone about it. Find someone who can listen. Just let it out.

It helps. Immensely.

Take care. Train hard! I wish you all every success as you move along in this challenging journey.