I cannot believe I haven't posed in 15 days!! What have I been doing?! Well, good question, I have been busy with work, getting presents, taking the little one to her activities and working on my own. All while being a good supportive BETTER half to my honey...ba ha ha!
Anyways, I have let the diet go for the last week and it definately did a toll on my digestive system. It makes me so sick to eat terrible. Really, it does. So back to the Core diet.
I really started back to the training schedule today. I feel refreshed with a good state of mind going into the New Year. I have had alot to be grateful for over the last few months!
After Beach to Battleship, I have been laying low, thinking of next season. I have mixed feelings as I would like to settle down and have more kiddos. I love the sport as well, so I am torn deciding. Anyway I choose, I know my honey will support me as he has done for so many months and years. How did I get so lucky?
I am signing up for a winter half marathon. Im excited about it! It is with a local run club I run with when I can get my tuckus out of bed in the wee hours on a Saturday morning. Its going to be located at the local parkway, Flat, icy, cold, oh wait.....NICE!!! :) I have missed a few of my little runs here and there but am trying to keep my long runs going every weekend!
That reminds me...I need to get in touch with my New Coach!! ahhhh!!
I hope you all had a wonderful Holiday! Happy Training
A Blog about Training for my Third Ironman, dabbling into other sports and eating Paleo. I am a Full Time Nurse Practitioner at a highly Successful Family Practice, Mother of a toddler and tween, a wife and everything in between. Follow my journey to see the craziness and dedication it takes to be an Ironman Triathlete!!!
Monday, December 26, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
No time
This month has been so busy. I have had no time to come up for air!
Training is going well. My calf finally doesn't bother me and I have been running steadily high 8min-low 9 min Miles which is such a uplifter right now.
I have been on the bike a few times per week. I recently joined a TRI spin class which will be interesting. Every week we progressively get a little tougher fr 12 weeks until we are back outside and riding! So I hope!
I have been trying to swim at least 2 days a week but sometimes that hasn't been happening d/t scheduling. I have made it to every Masters swim for the last 5 weeks though!! I;m starting to love it!
I have had a few Christmas parties already with too much to eat and drink for the past 2 weekends. Im hoping all the dancing I did will negate the calories.
I have little Christmas shopping done between all of the extra things that are going on . I procrastinate because really, I hate shopping for other people. I never know what to get. Now if I was shopping all for myself, I wuld go crazy.
The weather has been fantastic here in New York. Little cold and windy yesterday but really NO SNoW!! YESSSS!!
Hope everyone is enjoying their December!!
See we can look nice when we arent sporting all the tri gear!! :P
Training is going well. My calf finally doesn't bother me and I have been running steadily high 8min-low 9 min Miles which is such a uplifter right now.
I have been on the bike a few times per week. I recently joined a TRI spin class which will be interesting. Every week we progressively get a little tougher fr 12 weeks until we are back outside and riding! So I hope!
I have been trying to swim at least 2 days a week but sometimes that hasn't been happening d/t scheduling. I have made it to every Masters swim for the last 5 weeks though!! I;m starting to love it!
I have had a few Christmas parties already with too much to eat and drink for the past 2 weekends. Im hoping all the dancing I did will negate the calories.
I have little Christmas shopping done between all of the extra things that are going on . I procrastinate because really, I hate shopping for other people. I never know what to get. Now if I was shopping all for myself, I wuld go crazy.
The weather has been fantastic here in New York. Little cold and windy yesterday but really NO SNoW!! YESSSS!!
Hope everyone is enjoying their December!!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Masters Swim
For the Last 2 weeks, I have taken on the Masters Swim at my Local YMCA. Now many ask, am I swimming competatively and is this an elderly swim?? Sorry its for anyone 18 and over, not just the old agers.
Ok, Yes, it is kind of competative, I compete with all the people in my lane and the lanes next to me. How fun it is to try and go faster than the guys swimming next to you. U.S. Masters Swimming (USMS) is a national organization that provides organized workouts, competitions, clinics and workshops for adults aged 18 and over. Programs are open to all adult swimmers (fitness, triathlete, competitive, non-competitive) who are dedicated to improving their fitness through swimming. We have a swim coach that is very in tune with us swimmers (Id say about 24-25 of us in any given session). She goes over your stroke, your wall push offs, anything you want to discuss swim wise.
Then, of course is the workout!! If you want to get faster, this is the place to be! Today was about a 500 warm up, 3x200 on 3:00, 3x100 on 1:30, 3x50 on :45, 50 EZ...all that twice!! Well ok, I did 150 on 3:00, which could've been 175, hit 3x75-100, all 3x50's. Pretty easy huh?!! I cannot believe how fast some of these swimmers are! Its amazing to watch!
I will be hitting this scene every Sunday morning as I see feasible because it is such a good workout! And half the people doing the class are Triathletes!
If you arent in a Masters Swim, I definately recommend at least one workout a week with them as it is definately a great workout and motivator to push hard. You will definately see the gains in the swim leg.
Now go out and enjoy swimming in the pool!!!
Ok, Yes, it is kind of competative, I compete with all the people in my lane and the lanes next to me. How fun it is to try and go faster than the guys swimming next to you. U.S. Masters Swimming (USMS) is a national organization that provides organized workouts, competitions, clinics and workshops for adults aged 18 and over. Programs are open to all adult swimmers (fitness, triathlete, competitive, non-competitive) who are dedicated to improving their fitness through swimming. We have a swim coach that is very in tune with us swimmers (Id say about 24-25 of us in any given session). She goes over your stroke, your wall push offs, anything you want to discuss swim wise.
Then, of course is the workout!! If you want to get faster, this is the place to be! Today was about a 500 warm up, 3x200 on 3:00, 3x100 on 1:30, 3x50 on :45, 50 EZ...all that twice!! Well ok, I did 150 on 3:00, which could've been 175, hit 3x75-100, all 3x50's. Pretty easy huh?!! I cannot believe how fast some of these swimmers are! Its amazing to watch!
I will be hitting this scene every Sunday morning as I see feasible because it is such a good workout! And half the people doing the class are Triathletes!
If you arent in a Masters Swim, I definately recommend at least one workout a week with them as it is definately a great workout and motivator to push hard. You will definately see the gains in the swim leg.
Now go out and enjoy swimming in the pool!!!
Friday, November 25, 2011
Many Thanks!
Yesterday was a wonderful day! It was about 40 degrees when we set out to do our 3rd Annual Turkey Trot. My daughter wanted to do the 5K but she hasn't been running in a few months and didn't want her to get hurt. I thought maybe we could play a catch game, like she could try to catch me or vice versa but thought against it. Maybe next time. See my daughter wouldn't be ok with running by herself. I konow her too well, she would probably start crying. I don't know. I guess I have to stick her in that situation to find out.
We left the house at 8am, Got to the race site 15 min before the kids run. I met up with some of the Lake Effect Club runners that I really haven't seen since the summer!! It was a great reunion!
My daughter then did her 1/2 mile run and did fairly well! She was towards the front which I was surprised to see!! maybe she could run 3 miles and be ok!
At 9:10am we made our way down the street to the start line. I got in the 7min mile start line which I knew was ok because people who shouldnt be ahead of me were. The gun went off and it took about a min to get to the start line. It was an uphill start. I was trying to pass people but it was hard to do so. I finally got a break when we turned left onto a straight away. There was rolling hills to the 1.3 mile turn around, then back around to the rolling hills, down the start hill and up another hill to the finish.
I started out way too fast and thought I could keep my 7:45 pace, well that just didn't happen. I had on a fleece jacket which I should've taken off and I was steamy hot! No lie! The steam was coming off my jacket! ha ha!Bad decision to not give this to my one and only before the run. All I could think about was how I was cooking!!
Finish time 27:14/ my watch 26:01.
16/106 30-34 AG
550/1798 participants
I wore my new Kswiss Blade Light Running Shoes which I loved. But, the review said they run big and to get a half size smaller. I did and it was a mistake! My great toe on my left foot was hurting as it was banging on the tip of the shoe! Otherwise I loved the feel of them!
(Today was BOGO FREE shoes on Kswiss.com so I bought my next pair! YAY!)
After the Trot we took off to my parents house where I was greeted by my sister and her family, my mom and dad. I love this time of year!
The food was absolutely delicious. Compliments to the Chef of a sister I have!!
Now to go biking as it is going to be 60 Degrees here today!!!!
We left the house at 8am, Got to the race site 15 min before the kids run. I met up with some of the Lake Effect Club runners that I really haven't seen since the summer!! It was a great reunion!
My daughter then did her 1/2 mile run and did fairly well! She was towards the front which I was surprised to see!! maybe she could run 3 miles and be ok!
At 9:10am we made our way down the street to the start line. I got in the 7min mile start line which I knew was ok because people who shouldnt be ahead of me were. The gun went off and it took about a min to get to the start line. It was an uphill start. I was trying to pass people but it was hard to do so. I finally got a break when we turned left onto a straight away. There was rolling hills to the 1.3 mile turn around, then back around to the rolling hills, down the start hill and up another hill to the finish.
I started out way too fast and thought I could keep my 7:45 pace, well that just didn't happen. I had on a fleece jacket which I should've taken off and I was steamy hot! No lie! The steam was coming off my jacket! ha ha!Bad decision to not give this to my one and only before the run. All I could think about was how I was cooking!!
Finish time 27:14/ my watch 26:01.
16/106 30-34 AG
550/1798 participants
I wore my new Kswiss Blade Light Running Shoes which I loved. But, the review said they run big and to get a half size smaller. I did and it was a mistake! My great toe on my left foot was hurting as it was banging on the tip of the shoe! Otherwise I loved the feel of them!
(Today was BOGO FREE shoes on Kswiss.com so I bought my next pair! YAY!)
After the Trot we took off to my parents house where I was greeted by my sister and her family, my mom and dad. I love this time of year!
The food was absolutely delicious. Compliments to the Chef of a sister I have!!
Now to go biking as it is going to be 60 Degrees here today!!!!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Turkey Trotting
Tomorrow will mark the 3rd anniversary of our love with the Kiwanis Thanksgiving Turkey Trot in Baldwinsville, NY. Hundreds of people run the 1/2 mile kids run, 5K and 10K races that are held each year. This is the 43rd year of this race! And to think I just found out about it 3 years ago!!
I have really no expectations of tomorrow as I have been nursing a calf strain to the Left side. I feel great until about mile 2 on my runs and then it bugs me. Im getting kind of bummed about the whole thing because I absolutely enjoy running and seeing the gains I can make. If I PR tomorrow, Great. If not it isn't the end of the world. My plan is to warm up with my little one during the 1/2 mile kids run, then jog about 10 more min around the building, then hit the 5K. Run the first mile smooth, and see what happens. I ran the 10K last year but felt the 5K was more doable at this point with the way the leg has been acting up.
After the run I plan on spending the day with my loving family who support my crazy habits and realize I might be a little late for Thanksgiving dinner with good reason!
I have really no expectations of tomorrow as I have been nursing a calf strain to the Left side. I feel great until about mile 2 on my runs and then it bugs me. Im getting kind of bummed about the whole thing because I absolutely enjoy running and seeing the gains I can make. If I PR tomorrow, Great. If not it isn't the end of the world. My plan is to warm up with my little one during the 1/2 mile kids run, then jog about 10 more min around the building, then hit the 5K. Run the first mile smooth, and see what happens. I ran the 10K last year but felt the 5K was more doable at this point with the way the leg has been acting up.
After the run I plan on spending the day with my loving family who support my crazy habits and realize I might be a little late for Thanksgiving dinner with good reason!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Why athletes fight recovery
We all know that recovery is essential when competing/training in endurance sports, but most of us, even myself often feel/have felt guilty about taking a day off to rest and recover. The body stregthens and repairs itself in the time between workouts, and continuous training without recovery can actually weaken even the strongest athletes. So why do we fight recovery??
We as a culture are so afraid of failure. We are about control and doing, not surrender and just being. When we fail at a race or not do as well as we wanted, we try and work harder to "fix" it, instead of giving the body time to recover.
We need to recover to prevent fatigue and rebuild. If you are looking at your log and see that your speed is starting to take a hit or you are constantly writing you are fatigued, you are starting to lose your ability to perform at your maximum potential.
4 causes of fatigue are: lack of energy, pain, mental fatigue and dehydration. Any of these can cause you to feel fatigued. Pain from prolonged periods of exercise can make you mentally fatigued, as does acidosis.
Muscle injuries result in muscle fatigue. Dehydration also prevents oxygen from reaching the brain causing mental fatigue. Energy fatigue limits performance when an athlete cannot generate energy to sustain their workout.
Do you see the pattern? If you are mentally fatigued, you are physically fatigued and your workouts will suffer. I see no point in hitting x number of miles, or yards in the pool if I cant even get myself out of bed in the morning or I am thinking everyday I don't want to workout. Take the day off, or two if you need to. Refocus, eat well, hydrate and come back a few days rested. You will prevent alot of injuries this way and you will hit those miles, time, whatever it may be.
My coaches plan was not set in stone. It was a guideline for me to follow. If I saw that I was fatigued or not hitting the numbers I wanted, I took some time off to refocus. In the whole year I was with Coach Mary, I NEVER had a injury. I think this is saying alot about me being in tune with my body, nutrition, hydration. Also, my coach was very open to me taking a day off if I told her I needed one, or I was too sore. We changed the plan. I wanted it to stay fun and for the reasons I wanted it to. If my plan was different, I knew I needed a mental break. It happens. You recover and come back stronger.
This is only my opinion. Feel free to share any comments you have! I am open to all!
We as a culture are so afraid of failure. We are about control and doing, not surrender and just being. When we fail at a race or not do as well as we wanted, we try and work harder to "fix" it, instead of giving the body time to recover.
We need to recover to prevent fatigue and rebuild. If you are looking at your log and see that your speed is starting to take a hit or you are constantly writing you are fatigued, you are starting to lose your ability to perform at your maximum potential.
4 causes of fatigue are: lack of energy, pain, mental fatigue and dehydration. Any of these can cause you to feel fatigued. Pain from prolonged periods of exercise can make you mentally fatigued, as does acidosis.
Muscle injuries result in muscle fatigue. Dehydration also prevents oxygen from reaching the brain causing mental fatigue. Energy fatigue limits performance when an athlete cannot generate energy to sustain their workout.
Do you see the pattern? If you are mentally fatigued, you are physically fatigued and your workouts will suffer. I see no point in hitting x number of miles, or yards in the pool if I cant even get myself out of bed in the morning or I am thinking everyday I don't want to workout. Take the day off, or two if you need to. Refocus, eat well, hydrate and come back a few days rested. You will prevent alot of injuries this way and you will hit those miles, time, whatever it may be.
My coaches plan was not set in stone. It was a guideline for me to follow. If I saw that I was fatigued or not hitting the numbers I wanted, I took some time off to refocus. In the whole year I was with Coach Mary, I NEVER had a injury. I think this is saying alot about me being in tune with my body, nutrition, hydration. Also, my coach was very open to me taking a day off if I told her I needed one, or I was too sore. We changed the plan. I wanted it to stay fun and for the reasons I wanted it to. If my plan was different, I knew I needed a mental break. It happens. You recover and come back stronger.
This is only my opinion. Feel free to share any comments you have! I am open to all!
Friday, November 18, 2011
Friday Birthday joy!
8 years ago today I gave birth to my one and only!! She is such a spit fire. More than I ever was! I thought I would share 8 of the greatest moments I have of my Little one to start off!
1. I love that she can remember the littlest details. The things I think are unimportant, she remembers it all
2. I remember her walking down the hall with her first set of slippers and robe when she was two. I loved her little face as she was laughing at herself
3. The faces she used to make when trying to pull herself up when she was 10 months.
4. When she says I love you
5. When she put on my heels, and her jacket and hat, ready to go out the door. That was around 2
6. When she decided to get into the Desitin and put it in her hair and all over her face when she was about 15 months old
7. Telling me Happy Balemtimes day when she was 4
8. When she lost her first "wiggly tooth" when she was 5.
I have so many more I could share! Happy Birthday to my little Boogie!!
A DAUGHTER IS SPECIAL
A DAUGHTER IS DEAR
A PRECIOUS GIFT FROM ABOVE
A DAUGHTER IS A TREASURE
TO FOREVER HOLD NEAR AND LOVE
irene santiago
1. I love that she can remember the littlest details. The things I think are unimportant, she remembers it all
2. I remember her walking down the hall with her first set of slippers and robe when she was two. I loved her little face as she was laughing at herself
3. The faces she used to make when trying to pull herself up when she was 10 months.
4. When she says I love you
5. When she put on my heels, and her jacket and hat, ready to go out the door. That was around 2
6. When she decided to get into the Desitin and put it in her hair and all over her face when she was about 15 months old
7. Telling me Happy Balemtimes day when she was 4
8. When she lost her first "wiggly tooth" when she was 5.
I have so many more I could share! Happy Birthday to my little Boogie!!
A DAUGHTER IS DEAR
A PRECIOUS GIFT FROM ABOVE
A DAUGHTER IS A TREASURE
TO FOREVER HOLD NEAR AND LOVE
irene santiago
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Sunny November Days!
The weather in Upstate New York has been beautiful the last two days! We have enjoyed the weather all weekend long!
First we took Copper (our new dog) to the park and walked him. He is a "pit bull" and everyone was staring at us. What is the problem with them? The way I see it is every dog has the possibility of being aggressive and attack someone even the little chiwahwah or poodle! Yes they are stronger but let me tell you he is a great running partner. And he is a baby. Very cuddly. He even cuddles with my 8 year old! A lady said the breed should be shot. Thats like saying one of our races should be shot. How cruel!
Anyways, we had a great time! We explored, and he played at the dog park! He was tuckered out after that!
Today, I went with one of my friends C to run at Beaver Lake which is one of the County Parks in our area. The weather was 53 degrees when we started. Very unlike a usual November day. I think last year around this time I was in tights and 2 shirts, hat and gloves! This day just shorts and a short sleeved shirt!
I have been having a little trouble with the back of my left knee. Happened after a 3.5 mile run this past Wednesday. I woke up unable to toe off with my Left foot without pain. Took some Motrin with some relief but it still has been aggravating me.
I Braced it and hoped it wouldn't be too painful for our run because I had so much to catch up on with C! She is running her first marathon, Philadelphia, Next weekend!
We had a slow and easy 6 miler, went to the good old diner that I love and caught up on all the juicy gossip, our lives, etc.
My knee is actually holding up for now. Lets see how I feel tomorrow. Im nervous I might have a ligament strain. Just what I need right now!
As for the eating whatever I want. Yes, that stopped today too. Back on the Core Diet again! I actually just got a cookbook in the mail this week! Its called The Feed Zone Cookbook. Cant wait to try some of the yummy recipes! If I like it, Ill post it for you to try it too!
Happy Training!
First we took Copper (our new dog) to the park and walked him. He is a "pit bull" and everyone was staring at us. What is the problem with them? The way I see it is every dog has the possibility of being aggressive and attack someone even the little chiwahwah or poodle! Yes they are stronger but let me tell you he is a great running partner. And he is a baby. Very cuddly. He even cuddles with my 8 year old! A lady said the breed should be shot. Thats like saying one of our races should be shot. How cruel!
Anyways, we had a great time! We explored, and he played at the dog park! He was tuckered out after that!
Today, I went with one of my friends C to run at Beaver Lake which is one of the County Parks in our area. The weather was 53 degrees when we started. Very unlike a usual November day. I think last year around this time I was in tights and 2 shirts, hat and gloves! This day just shorts and a short sleeved shirt!
I have been having a little trouble with the back of my left knee. Happened after a 3.5 mile run this past Wednesday. I woke up unable to toe off with my Left foot without pain. Took some Motrin with some relief but it still has been aggravating me.
I Braced it and hoped it wouldn't be too painful for our run because I had so much to catch up on with C! She is running her first marathon, Philadelphia, Next weekend!
We had a slow and easy 6 miler, went to the good old diner that I love and caught up on all the juicy gossip, our lives, etc.
 |
| What a beautiful run! |
 |
| Our view on our run |
 |
| C and me! |
My knee is actually holding up for now. Lets see how I feel tomorrow. Im nervous I might have a ligament strain. Just what I need right now!
As for the eating whatever I want. Yes, that stopped today too. Back on the Core Diet again! I actually just got a cookbook in the mail this week! Its called The Feed Zone Cookbook. Cant wait to try some of the yummy recipes! If I like it, Ill post it for you to try it too!
Happy Training!
Saturday, November 12, 2011
A goal is a dream with a plan
Great words to live by! While reading Maccas Last Chapter of I'm here to Win, I can relate so much to this quote. I think anyone could if they set their mind on something they want to acheive. Granted the end all would be Kona for most triathetes, Boston Marathon for Runners, Swimmers- Well I don't know what the grand event for them would be.
What about ultras? They are the next step after Kona.. But do alot of people like to suffer more than Ironman distance?! There are plenty Im sure! Maybe that will be a goal to start with a Ultra Running event and move up to the Ultratriathlon after. Hmmm....Wheels are turning.
Anyways, If you have ever looked at a race and think its impossible, turn that around. The distance might intimidate you so start with sprints and work your way up. This way it wont feel so impossible to reach. I started 5 years ago just doing sprints. For 3 years I focused mainly on sprints, marathons, etc. I then went to the Olympic distance 2 years ago, 70.3 last year, then Iron-distance this year. For me, Breaking it up to obtainable goals for my own well being was what I wanted to do. Not that my way is right but I think its important to see what a race is going to feel at all levels of the triathlon world. I would never go from racing sprints to doing a Ironman the next year. My body isn't equipped like that. Not that it couldnt be done with consistency in training.
I always have a saying. I will make it to Kona by 80. Hey least it is a goal!! Will I obtain it before then? Im sure hoping!
I love in the book where Macca Says, "That first triathlon is terrifying and exhilarating, but you get through it. When you do, you feel incredible. The word hope becomes obsolete. You go from thinking I hope I can to this to I can do this. Damn, You're a Triathlete. You're one step closer to your goal"
Remember that first time you did a Triathlon? Remember all those butterflies? I still get them occasionally but nothing like that first time.
If you want to race Ironman distance, you have to make sacrifices. You are going to spend money. You are going to spend time away from your family. You are going to hurt. You are going to have days when your plan isn't executed. But believe in your goals and all will shine through.
Some ways to reach your goals:
1. Work with a coach. I started working with one last year and made alot of improvements in the last year
2. Develop a Nutritional Strategy- This definately took a lot of time for me. Its being consistent and really giving thought to what you put in your body
3. Watch other swimmers, runners, bikers. See what they do.
4. Talk to other traithletes, read blogs of other triathletes and learn from them
5. Join a Triathlon club. Everything is better with a group!
6. Learn about your gear and get the best for your money.
7. Take a calendar out, write your "A" race down and start setting goals. Start putting down every race you would like to do or can do
8. Have fun while racing. Dont be a poor sport!!
9. Accept that you are going to be a nervous wreck, We all were/are!!
10. Never give up!!
What about ultras? They are the next step after Kona.. But do alot of people like to suffer more than Ironman distance?! There are plenty Im sure! Maybe that will be a goal to start with a Ultra Running event and move up to the Ultratriathlon after. Hmmm....Wheels are turning.
Anyways, If you have ever looked at a race and think its impossible, turn that around. The distance might intimidate you so start with sprints and work your way up. This way it wont feel so impossible to reach. I started 5 years ago just doing sprints. For 3 years I focused mainly on sprints, marathons, etc. I then went to the Olympic distance 2 years ago, 70.3 last year, then Iron-distance this year. For me, Breaking it up to obtainable goals for my own well being was what I wanted to do. Not that my way is right but I think its important to see what a race is going to feel at all levels of the triathlon world. I would never go from racing sprints to doing a Ironman the next year. My body isn't equipped like that. Not that it couldnt be done with consistency in training.
I always have a saying. I will make it to Kona by 80. Hey least it is a goal!! Will I obtain it before then? Im sure hoping!
I love in the book where Macca Says, "That first triathlon is terrifying and exhilarating, but you get through it. When you do, you feel incredible. The word hope becomes obsolete. You go from thinking I hope I can to this to I can do this. Damn, You're a Triathlete. You're one step closer to your goal"
Remember that first time you did a Triathlon? Remember all those butterflies? I still get them occasionally but nothing like that first time.
If you want to race Ironman distance, you have to make sacrifices. You are going to spend money. You are going to spend time away from your family. You are going to hurt. You are going to have days when your plan isn't executed. But believe in your goals and all will shine through.
Some ways to reach your goals:
1. Work with a coach. I started working with one last year and made alot of improvements in the last year
2. Develop a Nutritional Strategy- This definately took a lot of time for me. Its being consistent and really giving thought to what you put in your body
3. Watch other swimmers, runners, bikers. See what they do.
4. Talk to other traithletes, read blogs of other triathletes and learn from them
5. Join a Triathlon club. Everything is better with a group!
6. Learn about your gear and get the best for your money.
7. Take a calendar out, write your "A" race down and start setting goals. Start putting down every race you would like to do or can do
8. Have fun while racing. Dont be a poor sport!!
9. Accept that you are going to be a nervous wreck, We all were/are!!
10. Never give up!!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Random Wednesday
Yesterday I decided to get back into my weight routine. I have had a set that I do. I love it. There is something to be said about lifting weights.
Its amazing how much your body morphs when you Train for a Iron-Distance race. I definately have lost my Saddle bag storage and replaced it with some nice strong legs. Ill never look like the pro triathletes out there but Im liking the subtle changes I can see.
Now after doing a 15 min Ab routine, my muscles are Screaming!!! Everytime I lift to get up I feel them! Oh feel the burn! Love it! It makes me feel like I did something good for this body!
I've been eating whatever I want for the last 2 weeks. That will end this Saturday when Im back to eating in the Core. Many of you want to know what the core diet is all about and I will elaborate in another post as soon as I get my thoughts together for that one! I feel 2 weeks was a good enough time to have my goodies post IM and not feel guilty about it. I know Thanksgiving is fast approaching but I can handle my cravings well I think. But, for 3 more days Im giving into all those temptations!!! Im definately NOT going overboard just having that piece of pie or cake occasionally, Having that DD Cinnamon Swirl muffin I was craving, things like that
I ran my first 3.5 miles today!! 31 min! Im getting my running legs back! I did have a little stiffness to the back of my left knee afterwards but I was able to walk it off and now its not as bad. It still has been stiff since my race. No swelling, no tenderness to touch, only when I run for a while. I've only ran twice since my race. Which is OK!
In the meantime my bike is over going some major changes in the off season to help with some serious nether region issues I had after my Race. OUCH! I don't want to get into details but it wasn't the prettiest. I have learned my seat is just not the right seat for me. Its a little too hard for my liking. I am also trying new aerobars that sit up a little higher as I had major neck pain at mile 80 of the bike. Time will tell if off season changes make me faster next season!
Tomorrow I have a parent teacher conference for my daughter. Lets see what trouble she has been getting into at school!
Its amazing how much your body morphs when you Train for a Iron-Distance race. I definately have lost my Saddle bag storage and replaced it with some nice strong legs. Ill never look like the pro triathletes out there but Im liking the subtle changes I can see.
Now after doing a 15 min Ab routine, my muscles are Screaming!!! Everytime I lift to get up I feel them! Oh feel the burn! Love it! It makes me feel like I did something good for this body!
I've been eating whatever I want for the last 2 weeks. That will end this Saturday when Im back to eating in the Core. Many of you want to know what the core diet is all about and I will elaborate in another post as soon as I get my thoughts together for that one! I feel 2 weeks was a good enough time to have my goodies post IM and not feel guilty about it. I know Thanksgiving is fast approaching but I can handle my cravings well I think. But, for 3 more days Im giving into all those temptations!!! Im definately NOT going overboard just having that piece of pie or cake occasionally, Having that DD Cinnamon Swirl muffin I was craving, things like that
I ran my first 3.5 miles today!! 31 min! Im getting my running legs back! I did have a little stiffness to the back of my left knee afterwards but I was able to walk it off and now its not as bad. It still has been stiff since my race. No swelling, no tenderness to touch, only when I run for a while. I've only ran twice since my race. Which is OK!
In the meantime my bike is over going some major changes in the off season to help with some serious nether region issues I had after my Race. OUCH! I don't want to get into details but it wasn't the prettiest. I have learned my seat is just not the right seat for me. Its a little too hard for my liking. I am also trying new aerobars that sit up a little higher as I had major neck pain at mile 80 of the bike. Time will tell if off season changes make me faster next season!
Tomorrow I have a parent teacher conference for my daughter. Lets see what trouble she has been getting into at school!
Monday, November 7, 2011
Looking back on the Season
I've had time to sit down and really analyze my season. It has been a great first season being coached and I am so excited for the 2012 season.
I really want to thank my Coach, Mary Eggers for all she has done to get me healthy and sane to toe that finish line back on October 29th. It was a long haul with many ups and downs but we made it through together. I am sad to say I will not be coached by Mary this year as she is onto bigger and better coaching with QT2 Systems. One of the most well known coaching businesses in the world. She is going to do great. Its her personality and commitment to the athletes that will make her a great choice for athletes.
I am, however, Staying with Train-This (or T2 multisport coaching) under the direct guidance of the great Kristen Roe! I cannot wait to start the season with her guiding me! She is a fantastic person both in and out of Triathlon. Im so glad she agreed to coach me. I am also looking forward to computrainer time at Bike Loft East which is the main store sponsor for our team!
Looking back on the season, I had times where I wanted to give up. Throw in the Towel, Get it done and over with already. But, I made a goal and that goal was not to be broken. I had times where I wanted to party with my friends instead of go to bed at 8am to wake up and do a 4-6 hour bike ride. But, I realized my goal and what was important to me at that time.
I know what my strengths and weaknesses are and I have listed them and put them away to revisit when the 2012 season is underway. I know I want to build a strong base to carry me through the next season, lose a few more pounds, build strength in all disciplines and execute that run!!!
I have been looking at all the races I did this year and I have had more PRs this year than any other year. Eight to be exact EIGHT!!!! Can I get a Woot woot?!!!
I owe alot of this to consistency and training right with the help of my coach.
Once again...Thank you Mary!!!
I really want to thank my Coach, Mary Eggers for all she has done to get me healthy and sane to toe that finish line back on October 29th. It was a long haul with many ups and downs but we made it through together. I am sad to say I will not be coached by Mary this year as she is onto bigger and better coaching with QT2 Systems. One of the most well known coaching businesses in the world. She is going to do great. Its her personality and commitment to the athletes that will make her a great choice for athletes.
I am, however, Staying with Train-This (or T2 multisport coaching) under the direct guidance of the great Kristen Roe! I cannot wait to start the season with her guiding me! She is a fantastic person both in and out of Triathlon. Im so glad she agreed to coach me. I am also looking forward to computrainer time at Bike Loft East which is the main store sponsor for our team!
Looking back on the season, I had times where I wanted to give up. Throw in the Towel, Get it done and over with already. But, I made a goal and that goal was not to be broken. I had times where I wanted to party with my friends instead of go to bed at 8am to wake up and do a 4-6 hour bike ride. But, I realized my goal and what was important to me at that time.
I know what my strengths and weaknesses are and I have listed them and put them away to revisit when the 2012 season is underway. I know I want to build a strong base to carry me through the next season, lose a few more pounds, build strength in all disciplines and execute that run!!!
I have been looking at all the races I did this year and I have had more PRs this year than any other year. Eight to be exact EIGHT!!!! Can I get a Woot woot?!!!
I owe alot of this to consistency and training right with the help of my coach.
Once again...Thank you Mary!!!
Friday, November 4, 2011
Post race Thoughts- Written down to remember next time
Hindsight is always 20/20 and that is why Im writing these thoughts down so that I may revisit them when Im ready in the future.
Swim: I tried to get myself as far left as possible as I knew the Buoy was on my left. I think that was a great Idea. But I got knocked a far too many times. I think I would start wider and work my way into that buoy if it is on my left again or vice versa.
I don't think I would use the wetsuit strippers again as I thought she was just as fast as I could've been myself. And, my swim time would've showed my actual time!! :)
Bike: I loved that I brought enough clothing! I was warm except for my hands. Cold weather, need warmer gloves. I drank enough, ate enough and peed enough.
One thing I would change is mixing my bottles the night before. I just put the powder in it and grabbed water at the half way mark. It was cold enough to keep these bottles ok over night. This would've saved time there
Run: I wouldn't put my gels in a baggy!!! It was hard to get them out of my back pocket. next time I'll dump them into my pocket and go in transition. I wasted alot of time at the aid stations fumbling on what I needed. Also think ahead what I want more than I did. Save time at water stations as well. Also embrace the hurt. Embrace the f-ing hurt. I did great until about 20 miles then I walked alot because I couldn't control my brain and my muscles. 6 miles of pain will go away. Take the pain.
Also, I kept moving after the race...I drank like a fish and did a gentle walk Days 1 and 2 afterwards which I think really helped speed my recovery.
Now time to get back to business!
Im all set to race my next 140.6 if I keep these in mind
Swim: I tried to get myself as far left as possible as I knew the Buoy was on my left. I think that was a great Idea. But I got knocked a far too many times. I think I would start wider and work my way into that buoy if it is on my left again or vice versa.
I don't think I would use the wetsuit strippers again as I thought she was just as fast as I could've been myself. And, my swim time would've showed my actual time!! :)
Bike: I loved that I brought enough clothing! I was warm except for my hands. Cold weather, need warmer gloves. I drank enough, ate enough and peed enough.
One thing I would change is mixing my bottles the night before. I just put the powder in it and grabbed water at the half way mark. It was cold enough to keep these bottles ok over night. This would've saved time there
Run: I wouldn't put my gels in a baggy!!! It was hard to get them out of my back pocket. next time I'll dump them into my pocket and go in transition. I wasted alot of time at the aid stations fumbling on what I needed. Also think ahead what I want more than I did. Save time at water stations as well. Also embrace the hurt. Embrace the f-ing hurt. I did great until about 20 miles then I walked alot because I couldn't control my brain and my muscles. 6 miles of pain will go away. Take the pain.
Also, I kept moving after the race...I drank like a fish and did a gentle walk Days 1 and 2 afterwards which I think really helped speed my recovery.
Now time to get back to business!
Im all set to race my next 140.6 if I keep these in mind
Thursday, November 3, 2011
5 days Post B2B
Its been 5 days since I did Beach to Battleship in North Carolina. What a rush. Im ready to begin embarking on new territories, new missions to make. Many of you have asked whats next. Well, I have alot that I want to accomplish and Im so happy that my honey is on board with making all this happen in the next few years. THEN maybe Ill settle down and have the baby some of you have been talking about!
Im not ready for that just yet and I still have a few more years until they consider me Advanced Maternal Age! (35 and above in laymans terms). Yes this will make my daughter almost a teenager but then that means I have a free babysitter! WIN WIN for me!
I have been thinking of how the 2012 season is going to unfold. I have written out my schedule around 3 times already! I think I finally got it to where I want it to be. I have no Ironman blues. I have mini missions I want to complete which makes it that much harder to get depressed or saddened. Most of you have asked me, how does it feel? Well, I have more goals so Im focusing on those now. Yes I had a great ending to my season and I will cherish my First 140.6 forever, but time to be thinking about what is ahead of me.
I want to do a few 70.3's this next year and really nail that run, I want to do an xterra, I want to revisit a standing marathon, I want to do just a swim race. I want my Mountain Goat Run time to be under 1:30 as I was so close this year.
Those are just a few...
I also have a few general life goals. I might even start pursuing my Doctorate..
Hey, You never know
Today I am going to swim. Im just going to swim. No thinking about time or distance. Just good form and easy swimming. Tomorrow I might spin for a good 20min.
I have signed up for the Turkey Trot in 2 weeks and need to get my butt in gear! No pressure or time goal, ok well maybe a little time goal. But most importantly this is a run to embrace fitness and family as my daughter and honey will be doing it as well!!!
Happy and Safe Training!
Im not ready for that just yet and I still have a few more years until they consider me Advanced Maternal Age! (35 and above in laymans terms). Yes this will make my daughter almost a teenager but then that means I have a free babysitter! WIN WIN for me!
I have been thinking of how the 2012 season is going to unfold. I have written out my schedule around 3 times already! I think I finally got it to where I want it to be. I have no Ironman blues. I have mini missions I want to complete which makes it that much harder to get depressed or saddened. Most of you have asked me, how does it feel? Well, I have more goals so Im focusing on those now. Yes I had a great ending to my season and I will cherish my First 140.6 forever, but time to be thinking about what is ahead of me.
I want to do a few 70.3's this next year and really nail that run, I want to do an xterra, I want to revisit a standing marathon, I want to do just a swim race. I want my Mountain Goat Run time to be under 1:30 as I was so close this year.
Those are just a few...
I also have a few general life goals. I might even start pursuing my Doctorate..
Hey, You never know
Today I am going to swim. Im just going to swim. No thinking about time or distance. Just good form and easy swimming. Tomorrow I might spin for a good 20min.
I have signed up for the Turkey Trot in 2 weeks and need to get my butt in gear! No pressure or time goal, ok well maybe a little time goal. But most importantly this is a run to embrace fitness and family as my daughter and honey will be doing it as well!!!
Happy and Safe Training!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Things I learned along the way
I still am in awe and shock that I completed 140.6 miles in one day! It is 4 days later and I am feeling pretty darn great! I am even going to go for a swim later!
I learned alot about myself this past weekend. When you are out there doing the mileage all you have is what is between your 2 ears. Your mind.
1. The more mind games I played, the better I was at tricking my body into thinking it was ok.
2. There really are people with bad sportmanship in Triathlon. I had a lady approach me and was pissed because I past her that she spent all her energy trying to pass me, then shouted "I really wish you wouldn't have passed me back there" She got in front of me and slowed her speed. I passed her again and never saw her after that. I said Nothing back to her. Made her look like the ass not me.
3. I can pee on my bike if I need to
4. My body can take a marathon after biking 112 miles!! (Next time it WILL be faster)
5. I can have a race without stomach issues. Proper fueling in the days before helped me tremendously. NO FIBER!
6. I seriously did HTFU during all this training
7. Never underestimate the advantages of COKE. I hate Coke but loved it at the race.
8. If you believe and never give up, you will cross that line!!
9. Its not the end all if you get a flat. There was a guy that had 5 FLATS and still crossed the finish line in an amazing time!
10. I will be doing 140.6 AGAIN!!!
I learned alot about myself this past weekend. When you are out there doing the mileage all you have is what is between your 2 ears. Your mind.
1. The more mind games I played, the better I was at tricking my body into thinking it was ok.
2. There really are people with bad sportmanship in Triathlon. I had a lady approach me and was pissed because I past her that she spent all her energy trying to pass me, then shouted "I really wish you wouldn't have passed me back there" She got in front of me and slowed her speed. I passed her again and never saw her after that. I said Nothing back to her. Made her look like the ass not me.
3. I can pee on my bike if I need to
4. My body can take a marathon after biking 112 miles!! (Next time it WILL be faster)
5. I can have a race without stomach issues. Proper fueling in the days before helped me tremendously. NO FIBER!
6. I seriously did HTFU during all this training
7. Never underestimate the advantages of COKE. I hate Coke but loved it at the race.
8. If you believe and never give up, you will cross that line!!
9. Its not the end all if you get a flat. There was a guy that had 5 FLATS and still crossed the finish line in an amazing time!
10. I will be doing 140.6 AGAIN!!!
Monday, October 31, 2011
Beach to Battleship 140.6 Race Review-Part 2
Since you all are DYING to know how the run went...Here goes!
After I went through the changing tent, I felt amazing! The rush of the people just took me out to the run and down the road. I looked at my watch about a 1/2 mile in and saw I was running 8:52. I backed off and settled into a pace more like 10:00/mi. I thought I could never hold that pace for the rest. Then came a +ucker of a hill. It was over a bridge and the wind was in my face. I thought walking was a good option as the wind was sucking the life right out of me. I decided to keep running.
I was feeling for all my nutrition and realized I forgot my salt tabs. No biggy. They had Endurolytes at every hydration station.
Every mile or so there was a water stop. Filled with Broth, heed, oranges, bananas, gels, endurolytes, candy. You name it, it was out on the course I think.
I stopped at every other rest stop as I had nutrition on me. I walked through and grabbed water, tore my powerbar gel ate and went. Next stop was HEED, and I alternated this all the way up to mile 19.65. After this I felt my legs breaking down underneath me. The time was now about 11:30 or so and I thought to myself if I could keep this pace or even a little slower I would be done before 13 hours. I was hoping for 12:30 -12:45.
I ran down the first hill on the way back (about mile 21)...son of a gun it hurt, and hurt bad. A lady came running up near me and asked if I was on my first or second loop. I said second. She was amazed it was my first and I was this far already. We both pushed each other for a few miles. I tried to run to every aid station, grab anything I could, cola was my favorite at this point. I alternated cola/broth with Powerbar gels. By mile 23 I was getting stiff.
I started up a little hill and couldnt shake this nagging feeling in the back of my Left knee. It felt like the ligaments were stiff! I kept telling myself keep moving forward. At this point I was walking more than running. The last hill I was scared for my life! No lights, I couldn't see who was running at me as I was blinded by 55mph cars flying by me. I walked most of it, then the downhill ripped my legs apart but I knew it was only about a half mile to the finish. I looked at my watch 12:53. I knew I could beat 13:00 If I gave it my all now.
A guy asked me on this strip how many miles I ran. I said 26.2, He said no way you look great! What?!! I felt like scrap! I smiled anyways. a few times I smiled at people, they didnt know I was hurting. They thought I was having a blast. I was SUFFERING...but I kept moving forwards!!!!
I ran down the finishers shoot in pure joy to be done. I put my hands up and screamed going through. I had a tear in my eye as they took my chip away and handed me my medal AND a finishers long sleeve shirt!
RUN TIME: 5:31:55
Total TIME: 12:57:32
51st female/149 participants (I don't know where I ranked overall as it wasn't ranked this way!)
The volunteers escorted me out, asked me if I needed anything. They took care of all of us! I went into the warming tent and just sat there for a few minutes. I was so stiff it was hard to get up afterwards. I was walking like I rode a bull for 12 hours! ha ha! I took some motrin and coke that a volunteer gave me and just kept moving.
I hugged Andy and cried and thaked him for all he has done for me for the whole year!
We took the ferry boat to the other side of Cape Fear River and went back to the hotel. I took a nice long bath and it felt so good! I zonked right out after this! I wanted to go back and watch the last finishers but I was pooped!
I will say this race is a great first timer race. Even though the wind and rain definately played apart in my mental game, it definately didn't get me to stop the race. The support crew, the volunteers, the race director, everything was top notch! This is definately on the race calendar for the future.
The race went well for me, I never had any cramping or stomach issues the whole time! I even could eat afterwards and that is saying alot for me!
I am still sore 2 days later, we have been having fun sight-seeing but it is so worth it!!
After I went through the changing tent, I felt amazing! The rush of the people just took me out to the run and down the road. I looked at my watch about a 1/2 mile in and saw I was running 8:52. I backed off and settled into a pace more like 10:00/mi. I thought I could never hold that pace for the rest. Then came a +ucker of a hill. It was over a bridge and the wind was in my face. I thought walking was a good option as the wind was sucking the life right out of me. I decided to keep running.
 |
| This is actually mile 3/4 for me! |
I was feeling for all my nutrition and realized I forgot my salt tabs. No biggy. They had Endurolytes at every hydration station.
Every mile or so there was a water stop. Filled with Broth, heed, oranges, bananas, gels, endurolytes, candy. You name it, it was out on the course I think.
 |
Mile 10! Still had good form!!  |
I ran down the first hill on the way back (about mile 21)...son of a gun it hurt, and hurt bad. A lady came running up near me and asked if I was on my first or second loop. I said second. She was amazed it was my first and I was this far already. We both pushed each other for a few miles. I tried to run to every aid station, grab anything I could, cola was my favorite at this point. I alternated cola/broth with Powerbar gels. By mile 23 I was getting stiff.
I started up a little hill and couldnt shake this nagging feeling in the back of my Left knee. It felt like the ligaments were stiff! I kept telling myself keep moving forward. At this point I was walking more than running. The last hill I was scared for my life! No lights, I couldn't see who was running at me as I was blinded by 55mph cars flying by me. I walked most of it, then the downhill ripped my legs apart but I knew it was only about a half mile to the finish. I looked at my watch 12:53. I knew I could beat 13:00 If I gave it my all now.
A guy asked me on this strip how many miles I ran. I said 26.2, He said no way you look great! What?!! I felt like scrap! I smiled anyways. a few times I smiled at people, they didnt know I was hurting. They thought I was having a blast. I was SUFFERING...but I kept moving forwards!!!!
I ran down the finishers shoot in pure joy to be done. I put my hands up and screamed going through. I had a tear in my eye as they took my chip away and handed me my medal AND a finishers long sleeve shirt!
RUN TIME: 5:31:55
Total TIME: 12:57:32
51st female/149 participants (I don't know where I ranked overall as it wasn't ranked this way!)
The volunteers escorted me out, asked me if I needed anything. They took care of all of us! I went into the warming tent and just sat there for a few minutes. I was so stiff it was hard to get up afterwards. I was walking like I rode a bull for 12 hours! ha ha! I took some motrin and coke that a volunteer gave me and just kept moving.
I hugged Andy and cried and thaked him for all he has done for me for the whole year!
We took the ferry boat to the other side of Cape Fear River and went back to the hotel. I took a nice long bath and it felt so good! I zonked right out after this! I wanted to go back and watch the last finishers but I was pooped!
 |
| Yes, Im a princess with a MEDAL!! |
I will say this race is a great first timer race. Even though the wind and rain definately played apart in my mental game, it definately didn't get me to stop the race. The support crew, the volunteers, the race director, everything was top notch! This is definately on the race calendar for the future.
The race went well for me, I never had any cramping or stomach issues the whole time! I even could eat afterwards and that is saying alot for me!
I am still sore 2 days later, we have been having fun sight-seeing but it is so worth it!!
 |
| This is the Battleship we ended up at! USS North Carolina! |
Thanks again to everyone who was apart of my day!!
Beach 2 Battleship 140.6 Review- Part 1
Words cannot describe the feelings I still have about this race 2 days later. First I want to thank all my friends, family and the CNY tri community for all the support and encouragement you have given me throughout my journey. I also need to thank my coach who calmed me down twice; the day before the race and on race day. And last but not least the 2 LOVES of my life, my daughter and Andy. Without them, I don't know how I would've made this dream happen.
Enough mushy gushy I know
Onto the race. I think I should start with the days leading up to the race first which I think had a total impact on my race. The 2 days before my race I ate little fiber, drank like a fish and ate carbs galore. I totally loved it as I have been at the mercy of my nurses at work telling me I cannot have the sweets! They know I crave them and they remind me of my goals! Love them!
The night before I went to the pre race meeting which the race director was a Hoot! He told us about the incoming tide and if we were a Dorito bag floating with the tide we would finish in 1:30 or less. Ha! He also said You are going to SUFFER, SUFFER alot but if you keep moving forward you will cross that finish line. Anyone can do any Ironman, Its if you have the will to Suffer. Greatest words! The other thing I loved is all/most of the volunteers were ironman/triathlon finishers!
Enough mushy gushy I know
Onto the race. I think I should start with the days leading up to the race first which I think had a total impact on my race. The 2 days before my race I ate little fiber, drank like a fish and ate carbs galore. I totally loved it as I have been at the mercy of my nurses at work telling me I cannot have the sweets! They know I crave them and they remind me of my goals! Love them!
The night before I went to the pre race meeting which the race director was a Hoot! He told us about the incoming tide and if we were a Dorito bag floating with the tide we would finish in 1:30 or less. Ha! He also said You are going to SUFFER, SUFFER alot but if you keep moving forward you will cross that finish line. Anyone can do any Ironman, Its if you have the will to Suffer. Greatest words! The other thing I loved is all/most of the volunteers were ironman/triathlon finishers!
After the meeting we went across town and racked my bike, dropped off all the transition bags. Dinner at Carrabas was Phenomenal. I love that place. I went easy on the sauce and went for more of a chunky tomatoe basil topping so that I could pick half of the sauce off. Didn't want to upset the tummy. But I did eat a crap load of their bread. Its SO Good!!!
 |
| Me talking to Coach Mary. I look worried!! |
Sleep the night before...why absolutely! I slept a total of 6 hours!! I couldn't believe it! I went a little easier on the nutrition in the morning since we did eat late the night before. I drank 3 cans of Boost, 1 Plain Bagel and a Banana at 4 AM. Got my Jersey on, flip flops, grabbed my swim/post race gear and laid back in bed for about another hour. The Pre race jitters were starting. My Coach text me and yet again I text back Im nervous about the swim. I was nervous as it was a salt water swim, the fear of the unknown and the mass start of 1,000+ people!
I had Andy Body Mark me before we went down to save me some time. He writes my age on my calf Vertically. Thats what I get for making him do this half asleep! We made coffee and headed down to transition.
When we got there it was cold. About 40 degrees with a slight breeze. I found my bike in transition and went to feel the tires and I had a Blow out on the back tire. My heart sank and I started to tear up. I thought oh god, I dont have another spare if the new one should flat. Andy calmed me down and changed my tire. I went to the tech support and asked if I could buy a tube. They handed me one! Free! I was so grateful I almost hugged the guy!
It was about 6AM , made a potty break, Ate half a powerbar, kept drinking fluids
 |
| The seam ripped right out of the tube! |
Now this is the part that got tricky, and I almost teared up again. I had to take a trolley to the start of the swim and Andy couldn't come with me. I was a nervous wreck. I kissed him goodbye with a tear in my eye and palpitations in my heart. I boarded the trolley with all other FULL distance athletes. We all were talking about the wind, the swim, other triathlons weve done, and where we were from. We said good luck to each other and within 5 min were off the bus at the start line. At this point I had 30min left. I said to a few guys, no turning back now! we have to swim back! Another guy said to me, you look so calm, you are smiling. I guess I can put up a great front!!
20 min before the start I grabbed another porta-potty break, then took my gel with water, and got my wetsuit, booties, caps and goggles ready. Walked down to the shore. I thought to myself, ok this doesn't look as bad as I thought it would. Got into the water to get the wetsuit filled up. Surprisingly the water was warm! About 69-70 degrees. I got my goggles into place, seated myself to the right of the crowd. Then the Eminen song came on- Lose Yourself...we were all singing and dancing, then the horn blew. I ran to the water and dove in and started swimming.
I should've stayed to the right but somehow ended up right in the middle of the whole pack! I was freaking out as I was getting hit, and touched and water was flying. And it was Salt water which I didn't like the taste of when a guy in front of me was kicking like a turbo fan! I slowed down, looked up and wadded a min to catch my breath and bearings. After this it was fine. I sang to myself, I counted to myself. I sighted very well and even drafted off a guy for a few minutes. The tide was to our backs which I could feel it occasionally pull me forwards. I turned at the last orange buoy and swam to a green one and was out of the water. I thought, I cant be done yet, that was too easy! I looked at my watch, 53:-- min. I hurried to the dock where I sat down and let the wetsuit stripper strip me down, ran into the showers and washed the salt away, then onto the timing mats.
SWIM TIME- 55:04
I stopped at the Hot showers for 2 seconds to get warm as the air was Much cooler than the water. It was about 45 degrees and windy. The forecast called for rain and 20 mph winds. I took off across the street, grabbed my transition bag, Stripped down, towel dried myself as much as I could, put arm warmers, knee warmers, hat and gloves on, helmet and shoes with toe covers, a little Chamois Butter and I was out of T1.
T1- 11:25
 |
| T1 |
 |
| Off to ride 112 Miles! |
The bike was a false flat, occasional rollers with a few inclines mixed in. We were up against some strong winds. I kept telling myself everyone is in the same boat as me and to stick with it. There were times my fingers were so cold, I wanted to stop. At this point I just focused on nutrition and my heart rate. Keeping it below 145 as much as I could. Around mile 40 I could tell I needed to pee. I thought to myself I can hold it until mile 51 where the special needs bags were. About mile 45 I was so full thats all I could think about and I didn't want to drink. I knew I had to do something. I stood up, leaned to the left and peed. It was gross but it was all I could do to keep going with my hydration. I stopped at the special needs area, refueled my bottles, ate 2 snack sized snickers, peed again and was on my way. The guy at the rest stop kept saying another 20 miles and then you will have a tail wind. I didn't believe him. We were pushing into the wind and rain all day! Mile 70 came and we turned onto this nicely paved highway and I was easily keeping a 22 mph average speed I kept this until about mile 90 when the wind started coming from the side. I just kept saying, 10 more miles you can do it. then when that 100 came, I said it again, 10 more miles. Then they stuck it to us by giving us a decent climb into the wind on Cape Fear Bridge right before transition.
I couldn't wait to get off the bike and start running.
I handed my bike off, yelled my number out for my run bag, grabbed it and crossed the timing mat into the womens changing tent. I saw Andy at this time and waved!!
Nutrition on the bike was spot on! 6 bottles of Perpetuem, 1 half bottle water, 1 powerbar, 4 salt tabs, 10oz of gel. NO cramping!! woot!
BIKE TIME- 6:13:53
 |
| T2 |
 |
Changing Tent! |
T2 was stripping everything off, putting shoes on, hat on, fuel belt, and getting gels together. There were volunteers in there helping us every step of the way!
T2-5:17
Onto the run.....will be Part 2!!
Friday, October 28, 2011
Packet Pickup, Pre Race Jitters...
WE made it safely to North Carolina last night. What a road trip that was!! 14 1/2 hours, 4 rest stops, 2 meal stops, 2 gas stops....and then 2 Im Freaking out LOST stops!! See when we got into Wilmington it was a little confusing as to where US 17 was as it was marked business district. Little did we know thats exactly where our hotel was!
We have a nice hotel with a flat screen TV, Free WiFi, Microwave, Refrigerator and Coffee Maker! Hotels.com was right! Woot! And the best part is we are right in between both of my transitions which is about 5 miles each way. (Yes T1 and T2 are not in the same area!!)
Packet pickup went smoothly. These people have it all down pat! I saw my Finisher Jacket hanging up calling my name after I finish. Thank god it will be available AFTER the race. No jinxing the race here!! I will finish, then get the damn thing!!! :)
Being the Transitions are not in the same area makes this a very confusing race. Ugh. I have to have all bags packed tonight which I have worked on for the last couple hours! I am now eating, drinking and resting until tonight when I have a pre-race meeting and need to drop off everything to transition area where the volunteers will transport all the bags to the appropriate areas!!
I have had a few freakout moments, but I am ready. I know in my heart I am ready.
My coach just called and we both know this is a great day to be nervous. As soon as that gun goes off I will be that much closer to finishing. 3 workouts in 1. Thats all this is. NO pressure.
The next time Ill be writing is when I am a Iron Distance Finisher!!
We have a nice hotel with a flat screen TV, Free WiFi, Microwave, Refrigerator and Coffee Maker! Hotels.com was right! Woot! And the best part is we are right in between both of my transitions which is about 5 miles each way. (Yes T1 and T2 are not in the same area!!)
Packet pickup went smoothly. These people have it all down pat! I saw my Finisher Jacket hanging up calling my name after I finish. Thank god it will be available AFTER the race. No jinxing the race here!! I will finish, then get the damn thing!!! :)
Being the Transitions are not in the same area makes this a very confusing race. Ugh. I have to have all bags packed tonight which I have worked on for the last couple hours! I am now eating, drinking and resting until tonight when I have a pre-race meeting and need to drop off everything to transition area where the volunteers will transport all the bags to the appropriate areas!!
I have had a few freakout moments, but I am ready. I know in my heart I am ready.
My coach just called and we both know this is a great day to be nervous. As soon as that gun goes off I will be that much closer to finishing. 3 workouts in 1. Thats all this is. NO pressure.
The next time Ill be writing is when I am a Iron Distance Finisher!!
Saturday, October 22, 2011
1 More week!
I cannot believe the day is almost here! Taper started Wednesday and I am going crazy trying to stay in the Core Diet plan! There is something to be said about me and exercise! If I exercise, I eat better. The less I move the more I want to eat! Strange!
I have also been busy trying to get everything together for next week! I received a nice packing list from my friend Rae over at triingforbalance.blogspot.com who just got done with her 2nd Ironman!! Thanks for the tips and list!!
I have had some anxiety moments as the last few days I have had a knot in the back of my Left Calf. It feels very tight. I have been stretching and rolling it out as much as possible. I've also been really tense in the neck area. Maybe I should book a massage..
I have had dreams were I can see a 13 above me coming into the finishers shoot. I don't know where that 13 is on the time clock but I keep having this dream over and over again. I have had dreams about changing outfits, Getting snickers bars, throwing water bottles...hmmmm
Today I did purchase new tires and new water bottles, met with one of the new owners of Train-this over at Bike Loft East. I also got a new jersey to Represent with!!! Woo hoo! I am really excited for next year and Train-this has some really nice things happening with their Coaches and Clients. So excited to be apart of the team. I cannot wait to see how next season unfolds!
I received an email from my coach Last night which really had me choked up. She outlined my past, that I stayed true to myself when all else was failing in my life. It really had me tearing up! The fact that she believes in me, the fact that I can always contact her, the fact that there is a bond between us as parents, athletes, professionals, Really means alot to me!
I am ready to give all myself to the experience next week and just live in the moment, Smile and Never give up. As my saying on my Road ID says...You can if you THINK you can!!! Stroke, Glide, Stride.
7 DAYS!!!!!!!!!
I have also been busy trying to get everything together for next week! I received a nice packing list from my friend Rae over at triingforbalance.blogspot.com who just got done with her 2nd Ironman!! Thanks for the tips and list!!
I have had some anxiety moments as the last few days I have had a knot in the back of my Left Calf. It feels very tight. I have been stretching and rolling it out as much as possible. I've also been really tense in the neck area. Maybe I should book a massage..
I have had dreams were I can see a 13 above me coming into the finishers shoot. I don't know where that 13 is on the time clock but I keep having this dream over and over again. I have had dreams about changing outfits, Getting snickers bars, throwing water bottles...hmmmm
Today I did purchase new tires and new water bottles, met with one of the new owners of Train-this over at Bike Loft East. I also got a new jersey to Represent with!!! Woo hoo! I am really excited for next year and Train-this has some really nice things happening with their Coaches and Clients. So excited to be apart of the team. I cannot wait to see how next season unfolds!
I received an email from my coach Last night which really had me choked up. She outlined my past, that I stayed true to myself when all else was failing in my life. It really had me tearing up! The fact that she believes in me, the fact that I can always contact her, the fact that there is a bond between us as parents, athletes, professionals, Really means alot to me!
I am ready to give all myself to the experience next week and just live in the moment, Smile and Never give up. As my saying on my Road ID says...You can if you THINK you can!!! Stroke, Glide, Stride.
7 DAYS!!!!!!!!!
Monday, October 17, 2011
2 weeks and Counting
In 12 Days I will culminate this year long journey. I have envisioned how it will play out in my mind a billion times. I have watched myself enter the finishers shoot with pure joy and elation, I have visioned myself running out 6.55 miles and back 6.55 miles, Twice. I have visioned myself settling in the swim and just relaxing.
Easy to say now!!! I cannot believe it is so close! I have had some teary moments, frustrated moments, pure happy moments. It all comes with the territory of your first 140.6! I know that now and I have embraced it all.
Through my last 18 mile run on saturday I kept thinking to myself. This is it. This is your last chance to get nutrition and hydration right. Get it right. I was loving every 18 miles of my run. Through the wind, rain, cold, it was all worth it. My friend was slowing down, but I was on a mission. I was on that mission to block the muscle fatigue, to smile through that, to focus on form and nutrition. It paid off!!
Yesterday I went out with my friend KD who is doing IM Florida. Thank god for her as she has spent the last 4 weekends with me training. If it wasnt for her pushing me and me pushing her, I dont know where I would be right now. Its friends like her that mean so much to me. Friends who inspire, who let you see all the sides of the Ironman experience. This is her 3rd IM and she has some goals in mind that I know she can achieve!! Anyways, we set out for the ride. Me doing 6 hours, her 4 hours. We were great 30miles in, when we made the turn to go back the 30 miles it was Torture!!! 25 mph winds, my bike almost came out from underneath me, I couldn't get into aero without being scared I would fall off my bike. I was miserable. Not to mention I started having a lot of tension to the neck. I finally got home, got on the trainer but my neck was bothering me only to finish another hour because of my neck. I had so much tension from riding outside. Not to mention I had deep dish wheels on which made it that much more difficult to control!! I should've changed the front tire out!
I am ready, I have done the workouts. This has been a long journey. Im ready to soak up the moment and smile through the pain!!!
12 DAYS!!!!!
Easy to say now!!! I cannot believe it is so close! I have had some teary moments, frustrated moments, pure happy moments. It all comes with the territory of your first 140.6! I know that now and I have embraced it all.
Through my last 18 mile run on saturday I kept thinking to myself. This is it. This is your last chance to get nutrition and hydration right. Get it right. I was loving every 18 miles of my run. Through the wind, rain, cold, it was all worth it. My friend was slowing down, but I was on a mission. I was on that mission to block the muscle fatigue, to smile through that, to focus on form and nutrition. It paid off!!
Yesterday I went out with my friend KD who is doing IM Florida. Thank god for her as she has spent the last 4 weekends with me training. If it wasnt for her pushing me and me pushing her, I dont know where I would be right now. Its friends like her that mean so much to me. Friends who inspire, who let you see all the sides of the Ironman experience. This is her 3rd IM and she has some goals in mind that I know she can achieve!! Anyways, we set out for the ride. Me doing 6 hours, her 4 hours. We were great 30miles in, when we made the turn to go back the 30 miles it was Torture!!! 25 mph winds, my bike almost came out from underneath me, I couldn't get into aero without being scared I would fall off my bike. I was miserable. Not to mention I started having a lot of tension to the neck. I finally got home, got on the trainer but my neck was bothering me only to finish another hour because of my neck. I had so much tension from riding outside. Not to mention I had deep dish wheels on which made it that much more difficult to control!! I should've changed the front tire out!
I am ready, I have done the workouts. This has been a long journey. Im ready to soak up the moment and smile through the pain!!!
12 DAYS!!!!!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Last Week in Review
I just got a chance to stit down and type a bit! As the days get nearer to my Full Iron Distance race, time is crunched between my work, activities, my Daughters activities and then being a good old partner to my honey!
Last week was one of the best training weeks I have had and It is another boost to my self confidence going into B2B.
Saturday was my long bike which I rode from my house, met a few friends and rode out to Green Lakes State Park for the 2nd Annual Breast Cancer Awareness 25mile ride. This was a great event where we raised $10,000 for Breast Cancer research and had over 450 cycling! It was a beautiful day! I then Rode home and around with my friend closer to home. On the Way home I flatted 2 times. After 107 miles Ill take it! I called my honey to come to my rescue. His comment to me was "How are you going to change this at B2B if you are taking so long changing it now? Mind you I have 808's on my bike which are deep dished making it a little harder to get off. So I had to do a few changes at home and still was frustrated as I couldn't get the wheel (Back wheel) back on the bike. I had a little meltdown. I'll wait for the repair wagon I guess if it happens on race day!! I am able to change it...but it takes me about 15-20min to do so! I would rather have my regular wheels on but then I've been training with these ones all summer so I will stick with what I know.
I followed this bike up with the best transition run I've had in a long time. I felt fresh, I was holding a pretty good pace in my heart rate zone! This really made me happy with 3 weeks left until show time.
Sunday I had a split run with a spin in between. I felt great for the 1st hour and a half then I was mustering up some good old energy to finish the last half hour. I made it home and was relieved that I could focus on other things in my mind and keep running despite my legs being lead. Took a few hours to visit the family who thinks I am crazy, thinks Im too busy for them, etc. It was nice to see my family. I haven't seen my sister in a month since we got back from Florida!! Geesh!
I came home, Spun out the legs for a while, then on the treadmill for a hour. I started out with a not so good feeling. Running on brick feeling legs is not fun. But after about 15 min I found a groove I could stick with for a hour. (Not to mention the chafing, changing clothes, turning the radio up, etc), I was a bit slower this time around but managed a solid effort.
Last Night I had my first IronMan Dream. I was swimming, swimming, swimming, I looked around and I was last out of the water. I looked around and all the bikes were still there. Looked up at the clock and it said 6 hours. Everyone was already back from their bike and running already. I was all alone.......what a dream!!!!!
18 Days and Counting!!
Here is last week in numbers:
Swim: 4,484 yds - 1.67 hours
Bike: 131.8 miles + Trainer- 15.03 hours
Run: 51.63 miles- 8.66 hours
Strength: .50 hour
Total Time: 16:10:26
Last week was one of the best training weeks I have had and It is another boost to my self confidence going into B2B.
Saturday was my long bike which I rode from my house, met a few friends and rode out to Green Lakes State Park for the 2nd Annual Breast Cancer Awareness 25mile ride. This was a great event where we raised $10,000 for Breast Cancer research and had over 450 cycling! It was a beautiful day! I then Rode home and around with my friend closer to home. On the Way home I flatted 2 times. After 107 miles Ill take it! I called my honey to come to my rescue. His comment to me was "How are you going to change this at B2B if you are taking so long changing it now? Mind you I have 808's on my bike which are deep dished making it a little harder to get off. So I had to do a few changes at home and still was frustrated as I couldn't get the wheel (Back wheel) back on the bike. I had a little meltdown. I'll wait for the repair wagon I guess if it happens on race day!! I am able to change it...but it takes me about 15-20min to do so! I would rather have my regular wheels on but then I've been training with these ones all summer so I will stick with what I know.
I followed this bike up with the best transition run I've had in a long time. I felt fresh, I was holding a pretty good pace in my heart rate zone! This really made me happy with 3 weeks left until show time.
Sunday I had a split run with a spin in between. I felt great for the 1st hour and a half then I was mustering up some good old energy to finish the last half hour. I made it home and was relieved that I could focus on other things in my mind and keep running despite my legs being lead. Took a few hours to visit the family who thinks I am crazy, thinks Im too busy for them, etc. It was nice to see my family. I haven't seen my sister in a month since we got back from Florida!! Geesh!
I came home, Spun out the legs for a while, then on the treadmill for a hour. I started out with a not so good feeling. Running on brick feeling legs is not fun. But after about 15 min I found a groove I could stick with for a hour. (Not to mention the chafing, changing clothes, turning the radio up, etc), I was a bit slower this time around but managed a solid effort.
Last Night I had my first IronMan Dream. I was swimming, swimming, swimming, I looked around and I was last out of the water. I looked around and all the bikes were still there. Looked up at the clock and it said 6 hours. Everyone was already back from their bike and running already. I was all alone.......what a dream!!!!!
 |
| From Breast Cancer ride (the date reset! Stupid Camera!) |
18 Days and Counting!!
Here is last week in numbers:
Swim: 4,484 yds - 1.67 hours
Bike: 131.8 miles + Trainer- 15.03 hours
Run: 51.63 miles- 8.66 hours
Strength: .50 hour
Total Time: 16:10:26
Sunday, October 2, 2011
September in Review
I think September was my hardest month. I felt flat. I felt like everyone was done with their training and I was basically on my own. I met up with a few friends who are training for IM Arizona and IM Florida and rode with them. Its hard when the sun stops shining, the rain and cold move in and the darkness takes over your early morning rides and runs. SIGH
I had a few weeks where I did what I could but knew that wasn't the best option going into the last 8 weeks of training. Pick it up Kristin. Id sleep late, eat bad, you name it I did it last month.
What brought me back to life is my ranting to my coach and reading Chris McCormacks Book. Hes so sassy but so right in so many ways. Hes a bigger triathlete just like me..he cant take big hills and heat, just like me...wow...I am in awww of all his accomplishments
Last month my daughter went into 3rd grade, started gymnastics AND dance!! I cant imagine having any more kids with all the stuff she does! Although Im not opposed to it by any means!! ;)
Yesterday started a new month, new consistency, new eating, new outlook on my tri-training. I know I can do this and do it with confidence and grace if I have my head in the right place.
Last month in numbers:
Swim: 18,646 yds- 8.17 hours
Bike: 19.56 hours- 266.12miles + trainer
Run: 18.15 hours- 114.59 miles
Strength 1.5 hours
TOTAL TIME- 47.38 HOURS
27 more days!!!
I had a few weeks where I did what I could but knew that wasn't the best option going into the last 8 weeks of training. Pick it up Kristin. Id sleep late, eat bad, you name it I did it last month.
What brought me back to life is my ranting to my coach and reading Chris McCormacks Book. Hes so sassy but so right in so many ways. Hes a bigger triathlete just like me..he cant take big hills and heat, just like me...wow...I am in awww of all his accomplishments
Last month my daughter went into 3rd grade, started gymnastics AND dance!! I cant imagine having any more kids with all the stuff she does! Although Im not opposed to it by any means!! ;)
Yesterday started a new month, new consistency, new eating, new outlook on my tri-training. I know I can do this and do it with confidence and grace if I have my head in the right place.
Last month in numbers:
Swim: 18,646 yds- 8.17 hours
Bike: 19.56 hours- 266.12miles + trainer
Run: 18.15 hours- 114.59 miles
Strength 1.5 hours
TOTAL TIME- 47.38 HOURS
27 more days!!!
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Lighting my Fire
The last few weeks have been a struggle. Struggle to get out of bed, struggle to get my workouts in. Struggle with my mind. get my theme?? I doubted myself in my ability to do this Iron Distance race over and over again. I emailed coach and told her I wasnt feeling all that great. Spirits were down. She emailed back. Lets have a do over. Everyone goes through this especially when it is a late Ironman. Eat well, rest up and start over.
Start over...yeah got it coach
I have been thinking of why I wanted to do the Iron Distance race again. Revisiting this throughout training has really helped me keep focused on my goals. I went back to the drawing board and looked.
1. Anything is possible if you have a dream, perserverance.
2. For all the hardships I have faced up until now
3. For my family, for my daughter to show her to never give up your dreams no matter what people think or tell you
4. For health, for fitness
5. For all the people who cant do these. I am blessed that I can and will
I have many more but these are the most important.
I purchased Maccas book and started reading it. It is actually quite entertaining so far. I cant picture him as an accountant. Im glad he is a hot triathlete instead. Ha ha!
Starting to read his book got the fire lit again. I am back in the game and ready to rock and roll! I have made some times up in my head where I would like to finish, where I could finish and just finishing before 16:59:59
I had a great 13 mile run today with Friends TS, CG, EH. Kept up with my nutrition, saw alot of squished frogs, a snake, dogs, a lady pushing a double stroller like no tomorrow, fellow triatletes. Nothing is greater than running outside in 63 degree weather with a slight breeze at 7 in the morning. I felt like I could turn around and to 13 more without too much trouble.
Tomorrow, 6 hour ride, 30 min T-Run with a friend who is doing IM Florida. Makes it so much worthwhile when you have someone to share stories with and ride with.
35 More days!!!
Start over...yeah got it coach
I have been thinking of why I wanted to do the Iron Distance race again. Revisiting this throughout training has really helped me keep focused on my goals. I went back to the drawing board and looked.
1. Anything is possible if you have a dream, perserverance.
2. For all the hardships I have faced up until now
3. For my family, for my daughter to show her to never give up your dreams no matter what people think or tell you
4. For health, for fitness
5. For all the people who cant do these. I am blessed that I can and will
I have many more but these are the most important.
I purchased Maccas book and started reading it. It is actually quite entertaining so far. I cant picture him as an accountant. Im glad he is a hot triathlete instead. Ha ha!
Starting to read his book got the fire lit again. I am back in the game and ready to rock and roll! I have made some times up in my head where I would like to finish, where I could finish and just finishing before 16:59:59
I had a great 13 mile run today with Friends TS, CG, EH. Kept up with my nutrition, saw alot of squished frogs, a snake, dogs, a lady pushing a double stroller like no tomorrow, fellow triatletes. Nothing is greater than running outside in 63 degree weather with a slight breeze at 7 in the morning. I felt like I could turn around and to 13 more without too much trouble.
Tomorrow, 6 hour ride, 30 min T-Run with a friend who is doing IM Florida. Makes it so much worthwhile when you have someone to share stories with and ride with.
35 More days!!!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Spectating Syracuse 70.3
Yesterday was the highlight of alot of Central New Yorkers Triathlon Season. The Syracuse 70.3.
While I had alot of reservations about not doing the race as coach thought it wasn't a good idea, a little part of me was dying to do the race.
I was so bummed this week that I missed half my workouts. Seeing all the facebook posts about how everyone was tapering, how they were getting excited, what to wear, etc, etc. really made me bummed. I tried to hide it but it was evident in my workouts.
I thought if I went and cheered it would put some life back into me, so I sucked it up and went and cheered on some of my Tri Friends that were racing. And my coach and some teamates.
I sat on the run course at the steepest part of the run with my cow bell in hand. The first 2 male pros went by, Cheered them on. No smile, No wave..Hmmm. A few more guys, then the 2 first female pros...2nd being Caroline Steffen!! Yes in little 'ol New York! I was so excited to see her out there! It was really cool! Not to mention our hometown PRO Kristin White!
I was yelling, ringing the cowbell anything I could to get those people up the hill. It was kind of cool to see the fast runners bound up the hill like nothing!! I even heard some friends tell me I couldn't walk knowing you were on the top of this hill!! Ha ha! Hey If you have to save the energy on the hill. I wont think of you any differently! Anyone who does these endurance events are awesome in my mind!!
Onto my week of training!! 40 DAYS!!!!
While I had alot of reservations about not doing the race as coach thought it wasn't a good idea, a little part of me was dying to do the race.
I was so bummed this week that I missed half my workouts. Seeing all the facebook posts about how everyone was tapering, how they were getting excited, what to wear, etc, etc. really made me bummed. I tried to hide it but it was evident in my workouts.
I thought if I went and cheered it would put some life back into me, so I sucked it up and went and cheered on some of my Tri Friends that were racing. And my coach and some teamates.
I sat on the run course at the steepest part of the run with my cow bell in hand. The first 2 male pros went by, Cheered them on. No smile, No wave..Hmmm. A few more guys, then the 2 first female pros...2nd being Caroline Steffen!! Yes in little 'ol New York! I was so excited to see her out there! It was really cool! Not to mention our hometown PRO Kristin White!
I was yelling, ringing the cowbell anything I could to get those people up the hill. It was kind of cool to see the fast runners bound up the hill like nothing!! I even heard some friends tell me I couldn't walk knowing you were on the top of this hill!! Ha ha! Hey If you have to save the energy on the hill. I wont think of you any differently! Anyone who does these endurance events are awesome in my mind!!
 |
| Kristin White |
 |
| My coach. Why do I look like a Midget compared to her?! |
 |
| Caroline Steffen |
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Century Riding
I know this is late.
Last Weekend my friend, LB and I embarked on a century ride for ALS. It started at Carpenters Fish Hatchery in Elbridge, went through Oswego, Minoa, Pheonix, Baldwinsville and back to Elbridge. Yes thats right we crossed 5 little cities in that time frame.
While I knew this was going to be a bunch of cyclists riding, I left Herbie the Tri Bike at home and Took out Pinky for the ride.
We settled into a fairly easy pace going out. Around 17-18mph which was my goal pace for the whole ride to begin with. My goal was to keep hydrated and my nutrition up. The first part was fairly hilly and we warmed up quickly.
It then became flat for about 20-30 miles until we hit Oswego where there were some rolling hills again. At this point my nutrition was spot on Drinking 1 bottle of Perform a hour, 1 Scap, 2 gels. I was keeping up with the big dogs, even hitting some 20-21 mph speeds in there.
I then started to feel a little "twinge" in the nether region. Really?! It started early this time! I was standing, moving around in the saddle, anything to make myself feel better.
Around 40 miles, I hit a pot hole and all my nutrition flies out of my bento box. I had some guys behind me that were kind to pick some of the stuff up for me. Back on the bike, I just could not get comfortable. I was starting to get miserable.
Mile 43, rest stop!! I use the bathroom, eat a banana and half a cookie, snap a great pic as above. That is Lake Ontario behind us!
Back on the bike feeling good for 20 more miles then my nether regions started bothering me again. This part was rolling hills which I love and it was a great scenic coarse. I was miserable. I was even thinking of calling my honey to come and get me, or my mother, or someone as I was hurting. Everything else was going great! Nutrition was spot on, then I lost my Salt tabs in the grass and everyone was hauling ass at that point I didn't want to stop and get lost so I left them on the side of the road
Mile 80, rest stop. Thank god! My Right inner thigh was cramping up. I don't know if this was because I kept trying to adjust myself for the last 20-30 miles or if it was I needed more nutrition. I fueled up, took a half of coke, half banana, went to bathroom and back on the road for 20 more miles
Again felt great for about 10 miles and it hurt again. I felt like this shouldnt be happening to me and one of the guys started laughing at me saying guys get it all the time...Ugh!! It felt like I kept getting pinched. I know TMI.
At mile 95 I started cursing...There was a steep incline followed by a incline that never ended. 2 miles. I was still on and off crammping in my right groin but I wasn't going to let it stop me. I thought, I am not cramping, spin spin spin and I got up the freaking hill!! Then it was down hill for about 2 miles.
Total 102 miles , 5hr 55 min.
After I got off the bike I ate a little then went for a run...I felt so refreshed! I even hit a 8:44!! I don't know what happened on the bike. Im thinking it was a combo of tenseness and lack of sodium. But the funny thing is my legs were ready to run!
Lets see what pans out this weekend!!
Last Weekend my friend, LB and I embarked on a century ride for ALS. It started at Carpenters Fish Hatchery in Elbridge, went through Oswego, Minoa, Pheonix, Baldwinsville and back to Elbridge. Yes thats right we crossed 5 little cities in that time frame.
While I knew this was going to be a bunch of cyclists riding, I left Herbie the Tri Bike at home and Took out Pinky for the ride.
We settled into a fairly easy pace going out. Around 17-18mph which was my goal pace for the whole ride to begin with. My goal was to keep hydrated and my nutrition up. The first part was fairly hilly and we warmed up quickly.
It then became flat for about 20-30 miles until we hit Oswego where there were some rolling hills again. At this point my nutrition was spot on Drinking 1 bottle of Perform a hour, 1 Scap, 2 gels. I was keeping up with the big dogs, even hitting some 20-21 mph speeds in there.
I then started to feel a little "twinge" in the nether region. Really?! It started early this time! I was standing, moving around in the saddle, anything to make myself feel better.
Around 40 miles, I hit a pot hole and all my nutrition flies out of my bento box. I had some guys behind me that were kind to pick some of the stuff up for me. Back on the bike, I just could not get comfortable. I was starting to get miserable.
Back on the bike feeling good for 20 more miles then my nether regions started bothering me again. This part was rolling hills which I love and it was a great scenic coarse. I was miserable. I was even thinking of calling my honey to come and get me, or my mother, or someone as I was hurting. Everything else was going great! Nutrition was spot on, then I lost my Salt tabs in the grass and everyone was hauling ass at that point I didn't want to stop and get lost so I left them on the side of the road
Mile 80, rest stop. Thank god! My Right inner thigh was cramping up. I don't know if this was because I kept trying to adjust myself for the last 20-30 miles or if it was I needed more nutrition. I fueled up, took a half of coke, half banana, went to bathroom and back on the road for 20 more miles
Again felt great for about 10 miles and it hurt again. I felt like this shouldnt be happening to me and one of the guys started laughing at me saying guys get it all the time...Ugh!! It felt like I kept getting pinched. I know TMI.
At mile 95 I started cursing...There was a steep incline followed by a incline that never ended. 2 miles. I was still on and off crammping in my right groin but I wasn't going to let it stop me. I thought, I am not cramping, spin spin spin and I got up the freaking hill!! Then it was down hill for about 2 miles.
Total 102 miles , 5hr 55 min.
After I got off the bike I ate a little then went for a run...I felt so refreshed! I even hit a 8:44!! I don't know what happened on the bike. Im thinking it was a combo of tenseness and lack of sodium. But the funny thing is my legs were ready to run!
Lets see what pans out this weekend!!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
First cold since starting my Season!
Well, there are 49 days left until Beach to Battleship 140.6!! The training is winding down and I am getting the next few weeks of long training rides in!
YIKES!
I have started with a sore throat, stuffy nose this morning..I did my long run anyways. But, I started falling asleep on the car ride home!! I came home and fell asleep on the couch for an hour. I know Im getting the first cold of the season.
You see when you work in Family Care you see all the kids with snotty noses and all the adults that like to cough in your face. You tell them its viral and they are upset they came to the doctors. eh, it happens and it can take up to 2 weeks to feel better! Listen to your body, rest, fluids, etc.
Anyways, I am feeling it today but nothing is in my chest yet. No coughing just wicked sore throat and teeth pain!! Darn Sinuses! I will keep up with fluids and resting as I have a very important ride tomorrow!
I am planning on doing a Century ride for ALS (AKA- Lou Gehrig's disease) A cyclist from our local cycling community passed away a few years ago and was well liked and respected in this club. We will ride for him tomorrow and all the others with this disease, their friends, their families. All proceeds will go to the ALS Therapy Institute. 100 miles of bike riding!! Im so excited to do this!
Happy Training!
YIKES!
I have started with a sore throat, stuffy nose this morning..I did my long run anyways. But, I started falling asleep on the car ride home!! I came home and fell asleep on the couch for an hour. I know Im getting the first cold of the season.
You see when you work in Family Care you see all the kids with snotty noses and all the adults that like to cough in your face. You tell them its viral and they are upset they came to the doctors. eh, it happens and it can take up to 2 weeks to feel better! Listen to your body, rest, fluids, etc.
Anyways, I am feeling it today but nothing is in my chest yet. No coughing just wicked sore throat and teeth pain!! Darn Sinuses! I will keep up with fluids and resting as I have a very important ride tomorrow!
I am planning on doing a Century ride for ALS (AKA- Lou Gehrig's disease) A cyclist from our local cycling community passed away a few years ago and was well liked and respected in this club. We will ride for him tomorrow and all the others with this disease, their friends, their families. All proceeds will go to the ALS Therapy Institute. 100 miles of bike riding!! Im so excited to do this!
Happy Training!
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
A Decision that was made
In the past few weeks, I have been contemplating the Syracuse 70.3 as to whether I should race it or not. It is about 6 weeks out from my Full Irondistance race. While I could race it and cross the finish line as my health and fitness is there, I had reservations of doing this race. All week when I was in Florida I thought about it as the Registration would be closing soon. Seeing my friends posts about their swim wave times, colored caps, their excitement about doing the race made me want to do it even more.
My coach and I have been going back and forth about me doing this. She put it like this. She wanted me to be fresh and confident going into B2B. If I do Syracuse and do poorly, my negative thoughts would creep up on me. If I did well, I would be too confident going into B2B. She wants me to be just right for my race.
All the molding and remodeling I have done in the last year to get me to this point in my journey has been a rough road. No one tells you how tough it is both physically and mentally to prepare for a race, to make the right decisions in regards to which races you will race each season.
I chose not to do Syracuse 70.3 this year. Not that I don't want to or think I wont do well. (I just did the Bike course which is Very Challenging in 3:04 a few weeks ago!) I just feel at this point in my training it isn't worth tapering and resting and losing valuable training opportunities that can be gained with my Full Race coming up!
I am very excited, nervous, scared and all that in between for my Full!
53 DAYS!!!!
My coach and I have been going back and forth about me doing this. She put it like this. She wanted me to be fresh and confident going into B2B. If I do Syracuse and do poorly, my negative thoughts would creep up on me. If I did well, I would be too confident going into B2B. She wants me to be just right for my race.
All the molding and remodeling I have done in the last year to get me to this point in my journey has been a rough road. No one tells you how tough it is both physically and mentally to prepare for a race, to make the right decisions in regards to which races you will race each season.
I chose not to do Syracuse 70.3 this year. Not that I don't want to or think I wont do well. (I just did the Bike course which is Very Challenging in 3:04 a few weeks ago!) I just feel at this point in my training it isn't worth tapering and resting and losing valuable training opportunities that can be gained with my Full Race coming up!
I am very excited, nervous, scared and all that in between for my Full!
53 DAYS!!!!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Disney Continued...
I was so inpressed by how well Disney is maintained. It is such a clean place to visit. The "Cast" members were always cleaning. Right after a parade we saw at Magic Kingdom, there were already people picking out the strings that were left behind out of the bushes!
Day 6- The morning we spent it shopping at Downtown Disney. There is an awesome Lego Store there that would surely impress every enthusiast! There was also a Disney Boutique that stretched for 5-6 stores! I could get lost in all things Disney there! I was about to buy alot of stuff, but I remembered I only had a small suitcase to stuff souveniers in!! Oh Boy!
Headed to Epcot in the Afternoon where we toured all the great countries and even sampled a yummy wine slushie from FRANCE!! A drunk person asked the cashier why he hated Americans...hmmm I would've said because you are acting like a damn fool right now! Seriously?! Some people are just down right rude and stupid if you ask me.
Day 6- The morning we spent it shopping at Downtown Disney. There is an awesome Lego Store there that would surely impress every enthusiast! There was also a Disney Boutique that stretched for 5-6 stores! I could get lost in all things Disney there! I was about to buy alot of stuff, but I remembered I only had a small suitcase to stuff souveniers in!! Oh Boy!
Headed to Epcot in the Afternoon where we toured all the great countries and even sampled a yummy wine slushie from FRANCE!! A drunk person asked the cashier why he hated Americans...hmmm I would've said because you are acting like a damn fool right now! Seriously?! Some people are just down right rude and stupid if you ask me.
 |
All LEGOS!   |
Dinner was at the Garden Grill at Epcot. This was a Rotating Restaraunt with Character Dining Featuring Chip n Dale and Farmer Mickey and Pluto! It was a all you care to eat family style dinner with grilled steak, roast turkey, and the fish of the day. Complete with Veges and Potatoes as well. Some of the food used was made in Epcot in The Land Greenhouse!
Day 7- Magic Kingdom! I could go there again and again! We took it to Adventure Land and Fronteir Land! We flew on Aladdins Carpet, watched the Tiki Room Show, Got a pic with Jasmin, Road on Splash Mountain which was really awesome and road a broken train!! ahhh! We also went to the Haunted Mansion, Went on a Jungle Cruise( the guy on our boat was Wicked Funny!)d
Dinner was at Tonys Town Square right on Main Street. This was a Italian family Style Restaurant. The only thing good that I liked was Dessert. They etched Lady and the Tramp in chocolate on my Plate! We sat out side and a downpour started happening halfway into our meal! The manager gave us a fast pass to ride any ride we wanted! We then had backstage passes to see Mickey and Minnie in there waredrobe room. Very Cute!
Day 8- Disney Hollywood Studios!!! My nephew and Daughter played a game with some of the characters and won a trophy! Went on Star Tours which takes you up in space in a simulator...so cool. Saw Muppets in 3D show which was a great show as well. We had front row seats! Saw the Indiana Jones Stunt spectatular which is a Must see if you are going to Disney! Tower of Terror my daughter went on with my brother in law as I had to take my nephew out as he was scared to ride! :( We watched how some of the animation is made on the big screen, you also can do your own drawings!
Lunch was at 50's Prime Time Cafe in a TV themed setting. The food was cooked the way mom and dad would've cooked it in the 50's. You also had to mind your manners and set the table! Woot!
After lunch we saw Lights Motor Action stunt show which was a awesome cars stunt show with a appearance by Lightening McQueen. Another Must see!
We then enjoyed a swim at the hotel, a nap and off to Epcot for a Spanish Dinner in Mexico! Yummy! We alos played another Kim Possible Mission!
Day 9- Magic Kingdom in Tomorrow Land! Buzz Lightyear ride, Space Mountain, Watching the Shows in front of the Castle, Getting our groove on at the Parade! So much fun today! Lunch was at Peco's Bills which is a great place to eat! Had BBQ, Burgers, Sandwiches salads, whatever you wanted under one roof! Yummy!
We went back to the hotel to Rest up as we would be up late to watch Wishes!! Dinner was amazing as well at Liberty Tree Tavern! This place was a authentic recreation of an 18th Century American Inn. The food was amazing! From the Bisquits, to the pot roast, to the potatoes, carrots and dessert!!
I tried to ignore all the ignorance in Disney, but there is alot of it! After the Wishes show, this lady kept pushing my daughter forward as she wanted to get on the tram. We all had to wait, we would all get on eventually. My honey went off on her and he has never done this before!! Kind of funny to see but people can be so rude! It amazes me that the parents were acting hysterical more than the kids were. Im glad we went when we did because the crowd level was much better than it would be at other times of the year! Also a foreigner was SMOKING in the line with all the other people crowding him! I looked at him and said Seriously?! You are smoking in this crowd right now?! He put it out! YUCK!
Day 10- Back to Disney Hollywood Studios where we went into Honey I shrunk the Kids set! I was scared on the ropes!! ha ha! Went to Toy Story Mania- what a BLAST! its worth the wait to do this ride! Went on the Studio backlot tour which Caitlin was scared she was going to fall out of the trolley! There was a special affects scene we were a part of.
Lunch was at the Sci-Fi Dine in where we sat in 50 convertible tables and watched a screen as we were at a Drive in! I hated it!! I couldn't see my food, the food wasnt that great! The best part was the Chocolate Peanut butter Cake!
Day 11- We finished up the trip with Breakfast at The Crystal Palace in Magic Kingdom. We had Character dining with Winnie the Pooh, Eeyore, Piglet. Went on Rides again until noon where we said goodbye to Disney World and went to the airport. 3:15pm we were on the plane. I had to sit with someone I didn't know! The BEST part of it was that he was a Triathlete from Rochester!! How cool is that?! He was reading the new issue of Triathlete magazine and I struck up a conversation. He signed up for Ironman Lake Placid 2012!! Good luck to Him! I didn't catch his name! :(
I had a great trip but it is soooo great to be home!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)