I wish I had something great to report or blog about. I love to write the blog because it is like my diary and I love to go back and read it. I had a blog previously and it had some great entries about my sweet little Zeus, Ironman, Ragbri, events etc and due to ( not sure how I want to word it) unforeseen circumstances these were wiped out, deleted, gone forever and it still really bothers me today. I am not good on documenting or organizing so I use the blog to record memories and I use facebook to store pictures. Stewart laughs because I can spend hours going back and just looking at pictures on facebook. Yes! These are my family albums and such an easy way for me to keep track of things. So... yes that does explain why you see countless pictures from me constantly! Only way to keep them around.
So back to the blog. I have nothing exciting to say but want to record something as I approach my 45th birthday. 45 as a number seems really old to me, in person I feel really young despite not being able to read and remember things. I have become that person that has to shine her flashlight on the menu and hold far away to even see it. I did try on readers the other day and then progressed to the walker and cane just for fun. I looked like a little old lady as I shopped around Walgreens.
40 was a big shock to me and I felt like I was pretty much doomed. I never believed in a mid life crisis but after hitting 40, I do believe. The feeling of anxiousness and the thought of my youth being over was crazy. Luckily 45 does not feel like that and I have learned to appreciate every day that I have! Yes, I would like to have a few less wrinkles on my face and maybe that twenty something year old body but those are just window dressing. I really would not want to go back and live through all that again. It was a great time but the memories are enough and 45 is going to be great I think.
45 is also bringing some changes... Riley is getting married and Noah is approaching his 18th birthday! I loved those kids as babies but I have to say I really love my adult kids. I love the conversations and the times we can spend together. I can't believe they are getting so big so fast with little priss right on their heels. I can not wait to go through this Wedding experience with Riley. She knows exactly what she wants, how she wants it, and wants it all to be perfect. I am going to just sit back and enjoy the process. I told Stewart I was not going to offer many opinions as I know Riley wants to do it just like she wants to do it. We sat down to dinner the other day and the first thing I said was " I hope for your wedding... " and Stewart started dying laughing because he said so much for no opinions. But the good thing is I don't care if she takes them, I won't get upset but decided it is great food for thought. We did find a beautiful wedding venue this weekend so Riley will have this completed like by next week. :)
As for the training front - I am low key and bare minimum and it is awesome. Not sure what I am racing or when. Stewart has his whole summer planned and constantly asks are you doing this? My honest answer is I don't know, ask me the week of? Everything I am doing is low key and I love it. I love working out and training but I really love not having to do something, goals to meet, or a race that I need to be training for. The crazy thing is I am swimming the best I have ever swam. It all of a sudden feels right and natural and I LOVE it! I LOVE SWIMMING! Never thought I would say that! And I love that I put on my fins and may spend a whole set doing IM instead of actually doing the set to send coach data.
Running has been my least favorite lately and I haven't been doing much of it. I won't lie, I have been spending most of my running training sessions on the treadmill running 45 mins and watching hulu. I can catch up on the Bachelor, American Idol, Biggest Loser, etc. It is awesome! I may never run outside again!!! :) I did get in a trail run yesterday in Monteagle which about killed me but I have no REAL ( as in training with an actual goal) races on plan so I figured the treadmill is not bad. I do throw in some 400's and some hill repeats so it has to be all good. I may make an appearance at the Mike Cody this weekend for some outside time!!
I am loving lifting weights and going to 9 rounds. Both of these I could maybe do constantly! Usually Noah does these with me and getting to spend time with him is great too. The other day he thoroughly kicked my butt in a " rowing " race at the gym. Could not wait for him to get to the finish so I could just quit.
The bike is just the bike... it is one of those things I use to ride. Sometimes it gets on the trainer. This weekend Stewart had an easy ride on his plan and I talked him into renting the $8.00 bikes in downtown Chattanooga and we spent all day riding everywhere! Those things are clunkers and I told him he was getting in some training. I did have a moment of embarrassment as I walked it up a hill while wearing an Ironman jacket but hey things happen. Rumor has it that I may do a race in about 4 weeks that involves 45 miles of biking. That is going to be a fun experience. I feel like I have years of bike fitness behind me - it can't be that bad.. I really want to do the race but I really don't want to train for it so It will be an adventure.
And I guess I can't end this post without mentioning Stewart. Not sure what I did to have him end up in my life but if you believe in karma - I must have really good in my past life. I am not sure I have every met a more moral, loving, caring guy. I just am amazed everyday by his actions, by his willing to help people, by the way he cares about people and the way he loves people. Sometimes I feel like I really need to get my act together. Beside he is just fun! We spend countless hours just acting like kids and playing and he usually lets me have my way which we all know is a big plus! :)
And the kids... they are great and fun and challenging and loud and keep us busy! All of them have a million activities at once. Sometimes I joke to Stewart and say all they do is eat, talk, and want to be driven somewhere but watching them become these little mini adults is so fun!!
So as I enter this 45th year, I can't wait to see what it brings and I have a feeling it is going to be a good one.
Life is good as I enter this 45th year and can't wait to experience it!!
Monday, February 1, 2016
Friday, December 4, 2015
The Foot....
Oh... the foot. Not really sure what I can say about this foot. Years ago, I would make fun of people who said they couldn't run because of plantar or because their foot hurt. I secretly thought they were wimps and just needed to suck it up. Well... then karma appeared to bite me in the ass and I found myself walking the walk of shame from Breakaway on Germantown pkwy all the way back to the visitor center at Shelby Farms. I literally could not run another step because of the pain. I called everyone I knew in between fits of stomping my feet and cussing to pick me up but no one answered. Karma was laughing. It was also laughing when I went from there to a boot. Not once but about a year later that sweet foot ended up in a boot again. Sigh...
So, fast forward a few years - after I really have shown true sympathy for people with foot issues I find myself there again. As Dr. Croft says I spend a lot of time on my feet that I don't consider when not running. I also spend it in weird combinations of shoes. You would think working in athletics with work out gear on, I would just wear a running shoe and be done. Nope, you can find me in keens, uggs, rain boots, crappy shoes, etc.
So... let's go all the way back to April and the Boston Marathon. I was hurt... surprise... being over zealous and lots of hills tend to do that to me. I thought I had a stress fracture in my hip ( I didn't) but leading up to the race, I quit running. I had not ran in about 2 weeks or more. As luck would have it, I had just bought a new pair of shoes that I had never ran in. New brand, new type everything. I figured race day couldn't be worse so I wore said shoes and HATED them! And FYI - not sure race day could be any worse. I really disliked everything about Boston. I use to say Hate but over time I guess I have mellowed. I returned these clunky heavy shoes and asked for the lightest thing they had and thought I loved them. I took some more time off to recover from the race from hell that left me for dead and to heal the injury and I started running in these shoes and they were great. This was around May.
In June, I became sick with pneumonia and was put on an antiobotic that was told after the fact, athletes should NEVER take. I developed tendonitis in the top of my foot and it hurt like a bitch. Dr. Croft prescribed my best friend ( a steroid) but it did not really do the trick. I was in the middle of Ironman training and I just had to suck it up. I also made sure I never ran back to back and if I could get a longer recovery time to baby my foot, I could manage it. Even though it did and still would keep me up off night with pain. We did spend a TON of time working on my tight calves. I am sure if the school PT guy would bill me, I would owe him my next two years of paychecks!!
Made it through Ironman, took time off, back to running - yep pain is still there. This time we try steroid ( YES) and 3 weeks of vimovo. First we think it is really working but then not so much! GRR... I am now ready to get back at it. I feel fat, sluggish, and no sense of purpose. I decide to train for the Wynne 25k in Jan. I decide to just run 3 days a week, lower mileage - higher intensity. Sometimes I am not sure if I am going to make it there. Sometimes I feel like I am one step away from a boot.
So I constantly think about this foot. It is always in the back of my head. My ankle is tight with not much mobility, the top of my foot is painful to the touch, and sometimes just taking my shoe off hurts. But... I am still running. I am brilliant - right? Well, I began to wonder if maybe the medicine was not the problem but the new shoes? They were kind of close together in time range. So - yesterday, I had mile repeats. Decided to go with my racing flats instead of my usual shoes and YES the foot did hurt some, and yes it woke me up last night, and yes I did have to start my morning rolling my calves but it really feels better. It really feels like the pain is not like it usually is a day after the run. So I begin to think, could it be the shoes that I have bought 3 times now because I LOVED them and they were my favorite? Please don't tell me they are the culprit?? Have I spent months on meds and PT and in pain when all I should have done was switch a shoe? Yep, I am a slow learner so I will hit Fleet Feet before my long run.
Praying that these shoes are the culprit. Wouldn't that be sweet? Who would have thought?? I do love a simple solution!
Happy Running!
So, fast forward a few years - after I really have shown true sympathy for people with foot issues I find myself there again. As Dr. Croft says I spend a lot of time on my feet that I don't consider when not running. I also spend it in weird combinations of shoes. You would think working in athletics with work out gear on, I would just wear a running shoe and be done. Nope, you can find me in keens, uggs, rain boots, crappy shoes, etc.
So... let's go all the way back to April and the Boston Marathon. I was hurt... surprise... being over zealous and lots of hills tend to do that to me. I thought I had a stress fracture in my hip ( I didn't) but leading up to the race, I quit running. I had not ran in about 2 weeks or more. As luck would have it, I had just bought a new pair of shoes that I had never ran in. New brand, new type everything. I figured race day couldn't be worse so I wore said shoes and HATED them! And FYI - not sure race day could be any worse. I really disliked everything about Boston. I use to say Hate but over time I guess I have mellowed. I returned these clunky heavy shoes and asked for the lightest thing they had and thought I loved them. I took some more time off to recover from the race from hell that left me for dead and to heal the injury and I started running in these shoes and they were great. This was around May.
In June, I became sick with pneumonia and was put on an antiobotic that was told after the fact, athletes should NEVER take. I developed tendonitis in the top of my foot and it hurt like a bitch. Dr. Croft prescribed my best friend ( a steroid) but it did not really do the trick. I was in the middle of Ironman training and I just had to suck it up. I also made sure I never ran back to back and if I could get a longer recovery time to baby my foot, I could manage it. Even though it did and still would keep me up off night with pain. We did spend a TON of time working on my tight calves. I am sure if the school PT guy would bill me, I would owe him my next two years of paychecks!!
Made it through Ironman, took time off, back to running - yep pain is still there. This time we try steroid ( YES) and 3 weeks of vimovo. First we think it is really working but then not so much! GRR... I am now ready to get back at it. I feel fat, sluggish, and no sense of purpose. I decide to train for the Wynne 25k in Jan. I decide to just run 3 days a week, lower mileage - higher intensity. Sometimes I am not sure if I am going to make it there. Sometimes I feel like I am one step away from a boot.
So I constantly think about this foot. It is always in the back of my head. My ankle is tight with not much mobility, the top of my foot is painful to the touch, and sometimes just taking my shoe off hurts. But... I am still running. I am brilliant - right? Well, I began to wonder if maybe the medicine was not the problem but the new shoes? They were kind of close together in time range. So - yesterday, I had mile repeats. Decided to go with my racing flats instead of my usual shoes and YES the foot did hurt some, and yes it woke me up last night, and yes I did have to start my morning rolling my calves but it really feels better. It really feels like the pain is not like it usually is a day after the run. So I begin to think, could it be the shoes that I have bought 3 times now because I LOVED them and they were my favorite? Please don't tell me they are the culprit?? Have I spent months on meds and PT and in pain when all I should have done was switch a shoe? Yep, I am a slow learner so I will hit Fleet Feet before my long run.
Praying that these shoes are the culprit. Wouldn't that be sweet? Who would have thought?? I do love a simple solution!
Happy Running!
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
Off Season...
Off Season - oh how I love you!
You started out a little precarious. I was depressed, sad, and lost without my ironman training. Race day was so great ( best ever) that I was just on a huge high let down. I was stressed and thinking what can I do next? I also felt nervous because Stewart has already registered for NOLA half ironman and Wisconsion full ironman. I knew better to sign up for anything at this time because I had so many emotions but it was hard not to. I even toyed with signing up for Louisville.
The first week was bad, I was grouchy and cranky. I was not sleeping through the night. I may have yelled at everyone unnecessarily if you could believe that. I was shocked. Why was I missing training so much? There were times when I was sure I hated it and never wanted to see my swim bag or bike again. Second week got better, still a little lost, still not sleeping through the night. Third week... you are awesome. I love the off season!
I had a great girls weekend and never did I have to worry about what training I was missing or what fitness I may be losing. I did do one run just because it was a glorious beautiful day. I was going to run 30 minutes and then decided to extend. It was great. No plan. Just run what you want. I am still having some foot issues but was super happy to see this run went well.
I have joined back up with 9 rounds and going to doing xtreme fitness bootcamp. I am going to try to attend one or the other 5 days a week ( if I feel like it) to build some strength. Running and biking when I want. It is amazing how your body can be so fit one way but so weak in others. I went to xtreme fitness for the first time and was so sore for two days. A couple of times during the hour work out I was wishing I was back on the ironman course. It had to be easier. Yesterday I attended 9 rounds and my booty is sore like no other. Last year - Riley did tell me 9 rounds was giving me a J-Lo booty so I guess I am on my way.
Hoping the foot will hold out so I can do Wade's big adventure as it is my all time favorite race! It may be my slowest time ever but those days when I race when I am fit and ready are over. It is all about the fun for me.
I am leaving for Vegas tomorrow so I doubt much of anything will get done. I may hit the gym a few times to sweat out some alcohol but so looking forward to doing nothing.
I would love to get to Yoga but can't find classes to fit my schedule. I may need to get my dvd's out and return to my yoga at home. I do love some Bob Harper.
I still love racing and not ready to retire yet. Even though many days this summer I thought I would do just that. Noah and I have talked about doing a mom and pop half ironman together this year. He has joined the swim team to start his prep. He did not get his swim gene from me. He has not swam since his 6th grad year and came home and told me he did his 25's in 14 seconds and his 50's in 38. Oh to be young again and just hop in the pool and do that. I have never seen those times and more than likely never will. I love that he is returning to the pool.
See you on the flip side.....
You started out a little precarious. I was depressed, sad, and lost without my ironman training. Race day was so great ( best ever) that I was just on a huge high let down. I was stressed and thinking what can I do next? I also felt nervous because Stewart has already registered for NOLA half ironman and Wisconsion full ironman. I knew better to sign up for anything at this time because I had so many emotions but it was hard not to. I even toyed with signing up for Louisville.
The first week was bad, I was grouchy and cranky. I was not sleeping through the night. I may have yelled at everyone unnecessarily if you could believe that. I was shocked. Why was I missing training so much? There were times when I was sure I hated it and never wanted to see my swim bag or bike again. Second week got better, still a little lost, still not sleeping through the night. Third week... you are awesome. I love the off season!
I had a great girls weekend and never did I have to worry about what training I was missing or what fitness I may be losing. I did do one run just because it was a glorious beautiful day. I was going to run 30 minutes and then decided to extend. It was great. No plan. Just run what you want. I am still having some foot issues but was super happy to see this run went well.
I have joined back up with 9 rounds and going to doing xtreme fitness bootcamp. I am going to try to attend one or the other 5 days a week ( if I feel like it) to build some strength. Running and biking when I want. It is amazing how your body can be so fit one way but so weak in others. I went to xtreme fitness for the first time and was so sore for two days. A couple of times during the hour work out I was wishing I was back on the ironman course. It had to be easier. Yesterday I attended 9 rounds and my booty is sore like no other. Last year - Riley did tell me 9 rounds was giving me a J-Lo booty so I guess I am on my way.
Hoping the foot will hold out so I can do Wade's big adventure as it is my all time favorite race! It may be my slowest time ever but those days when I race when I am fit and ready are over. It is all about the fun for me.
I am leaving for Vegas tomorrow so I doubt much of anything will get done. I may hit the gym a few times to sweat out some alcohol but so looking forward to doing nothing.
I would love to get to Yoga but can't find classes to fit my schedule. I may need to get my dvd's out and return to my yoga at home. I do love some Bob Harper.
I still love racing and not ready to retire yet. Even though many days this summer I thought I would do just that. Noah and I have talked about doing a mom and pop half ironman together this year. He has joined the swim team to start his prep. He did not get his swim gene from me. He has not swam since his 6th grad year and came home and told me he did his 25's in 14 seconds and his 50's in 38. Oh to be young again and just hop in the pool and do that. I have never seen those times and more than likely never will. I love that he is returning to the pool.
See you on the flip side.....
Monday, September 28, 2015
It is over...... Thanks Chattanooga Ironman! You were awesome!
Well... it is done. I could do a long race report but 144.6 miles is a lot to cover. I am going to briefly hit the high points.
What I do know is I feel kind of sad, lost, and wondering what do I do now. After training since January, following a plan, and planning work outs around family time, work, coaching, etc. It seems so weird to just have nothing. I was actually relieved when I looked on training peaks and saw that Liz had scheduled some recovery bikes and swims this week. This feels normal. As much as I hated many of the early mornings and the long days, it is sad to be done. I know I will quickly get in the spring of things or the fall of things. I LOVE fall and can't wait to spend mornings drinking coffee and reading on the porch, doing outside stuff with the kids, yoga, bootcamp, and trail runs and mountain biking. I also have a girls trip planned for next week and Stewart and I have a trip to Vegas for the week after but today I feel maybe a tiny bit depressed. The HUGE high and build up of last week and yesterday is just over - just like that but you do have some great memories. Some of those best memories were having all of the kids ( only Noah has seen me do an Ironman before) and family cheer me on. They were such a welcome bright spot every time I see them. Hearing your kids call you your hero and say I am so proud of you lets you know that you are doing a great job of being a wonderful role model and example for them. I know many people think training takes away from family time but if you do it right, it really doesn't and it provides your kids with so much more. I love that my kids see me as so much more than mom but someone who goes after what she wants, is not afraid to go after my dreams, never backs down from a challenge and has my own hobbies, desires, and dreams.
Chattanooga was just awesome. It is one of my favorite places to be and getting to go there on Thursday and spend time with Riley before the race made it that much more special. The town knows how to put on an ironman and the crowd support was wonderful . I think this was the first time that I ever ran with someone setting fireworks off over my head.
I knew that I wanted to be in the 12 hour zone and I wanted a PR. I knew that the swim would be a PR - regardless of current, I was swimming down a river. I was super excited to PR my bike and my run as well!!
As I jumped off the dock, the man yelled at me " You ready to have a PR swim" and yes I was!! This was also the first time I have ever done an Ironman without a wetsuit which was a huge accomplishment for me! Although I am still not a super fast swimmer, this summer I really became confident in my swim. Beside not being able to swim straight the swim was uneventful. After seeming like we stood in line forever, we were running down the dock to jump in. Stewart still had not put on his cap or goggles so I turned around to see if he had jumped in. I didn't see him again until about 25 minutes later when I saw a foot with red tape under me - I yelled at him, we talked for a moment and then swam on. Neither of us knew we were even by each other and we were super excited to exit the swim ladder 3 seconds a part! The only time I was going to see him that day and I loved it! Both of us not being strong swimmers were celebrating being out of the water. Loved having the kids waiting on us and thought about seeing them the whole 2.4 or more as I weaved my way down the river.
The bike was great! I loved that I had biked it a couple of times so I knew where I was all the time. I also knew it was a beautiful course in the valley of the mountains so I made sure I took the time to enjoy the scenery. Liz and I discussed me riding steady and easy on the hills. My goal was to be in the 6 hour range and I was. I stopped at the 60 mile mark to grab my bag and chat with the family ( so much fun again) and stopped one more time to fill my bottles but the rest of the time was all go. So this summer, I did a lot of solo riding as Liz often had me riding on Sunday and nobody rides on Sunday or I rode solo because I was always behind Stewart. Paid off huge yesterday as mentally I was good the whole time! I was use to being alone and enjoyed the few conversations that I had with my fellow racers. In fact, the time seemed to go by really fast.
I started the run and felt good, was hoping to run steady enough, walk through the aid stations and average close to 9 minute mile. This worked for awhile and then I hit the hills! Holy Hilly! It was crazy! After the first 13 miles, I decided I didn't care if I met my goal, my new goal was to enjoy it, soak it in, and get to finish. Somehow I managed to get a PR from previous ironman runs but I seemed to be walking more than running. Before I knew it - I was rounding the corner to hit the finish line.
I have said it before and I will say it again. There is nothing like an ironman finish line! Just thinking about it brings me to tears. This is where all your training, dedication, hard work come together and it is so emotional and so amazing as you run through crazy screaming fans to bright lights, music, people cheering and giving you high five and your family there waiting!! After 12 hours and 41 minutes all my hard work this summer and the day was over! You can not imagine. I am so thankful that I have a body and mind that allows me to do this! I was once again reminded what a lucky girl I was!
Finally saw Stewart and saw that he had a great day and did an 11:52 on his first ironman even after possibly biking too hard ( surprise) and running like a crazy person with a 6:52 first mile. I was so proud of him and do not think I quit smiling the rest of the night!
I do have to brag - although he beat me by an hour - I beat him in the swim by 3 seconds and on the run by 15 minutes. Sorry baby... it wouldn't be right if I didn't throw that in there.
We went to mellow mushroom but I really couldn't eat and then we went to the finish line and brought home the last finishers. Truly inspiring! The last finisher made it with a minute to spare.
I couldn't sleep at all because my foot was killing me and my appetite finally returned so I found myself up before 5:00 and walking to waffle house for a quick snack.
So... for now - not sure what my plans are going to be. I am definitely taking some time to just be but I may have a half ironman in the future, race a half marathon, run sylamore and finally break my 6 hour time goal after being so close for two years, do ragbrai, or just become a sprint specialist. I do know that Stewart is more than likely going to sign up for Louiville Ironman. That I think - I mean I am pretty sure I am going to pass. I will just concentrate on my Sherpa skills starting with the NOLA 70.3... can't think of a better place to Sherpa and just as much as I hate riding in the heat - I really hate riding in the cold
Thanks Chattanooga Ironman!! You were awesome!
What I do know is I feel kind of sad, lost, and wondering what do I do now. After training since January, following a plan, and planning work outs around family time, work, coaching, etc. It seems so weird to just have nothing. I was actually relieved when I looked on training peaks and saw that Liz had scheduled some recovery bikes and swims this week. This feels normal. As much as I hated many of the early mornings and the long days, it is sad to be done. I know I will quickly get in the spring of things or the fall of things. I LOVE fall and can't wait to spend mornings drinking coffee and reading on the porch, doing outside stuff with the kids, yoga, bootcamp, and trail runs and mountain biking. I also have a girls trip planned for next week and Stewart and I have a trip to Vegas for the week after but today I feel maybe a tiny bit depressed. The HUGE high and build up of last week and yesterday is just over - just like that but you do have some great memories. Some of those best memories were having all of the kids ( only Noah has seen me do an Ironman before) and family cheer me on. They were such a welcome bright spot every time I see them. Hearing your kids call you your hero and say I am so proud of you lets you know that you are doing a great job of being a wonderful role model and example for them. I know many people think training takes away from family time but if you do it right, it really doesn't and it provides your kids with so much more. I love that my kids see me as so much more than mom but someone who goes after what she wants, is not afraid to go after my dreams, never backs down from a challenge and has my own hobbies, desires, and dreams.
Chattanooga was just awesome. It is one of my favorite places to be and getting to go there on Thursday and spend time with Riley before the race made it that much more special. The town knows how to put on an ironman and the crowd support was wonderful . I think this was the first time that I ever ran with someone setting fireworks off over my head.
I knew that I wanted to be in the 12 hour zone and I wanted a PR. I knew that the swim would be a PR - regardless of current, I was swimming down a river. I was super excited to PR my bike and my run as well!!
As I jumped off the dock, the man yelled at me " You ready to have a PR swim" and yes I was!! This was also the first time I have ever done an Ironman without a wetsuit which was a huge accomplishment for me! Although I am still not a super fast swimmer, this summer I really became confident in my swim. Beside not being able to swim straight the swim was uneventful. After seeming like we stood in line forever, we were running down the dock to jump in. Stewart still had not put on his cap or goggles so I turned around to see if he had jumped in. I didn't see him again until about 25 minutes later when I saw a foot with red tape under me - I yelled at him, we talked for a moment and then swam on. Neither of us knew we were even by each other and we were super excited to exit the swim ladder 3 seconds a part! The only time I was going to see him that day and I loved it! Both of us not being strong swimmers were celebrating being out of the water. Loved having the kids waiting on us and thought about seeing them the whole 2.4 or more as I weaved my way down the river.
The bike was great! I loved that I had biked it a couple of times so I knew where I was all the time. I also knew it was a beautiful course in the valley of the mountains so I made sure I took the time to enjoy the scenery. Liz and I discussed me riding steady and easy on the hills. My goal was to be in the 6 hour range and I was. I stopped at the 60 mile mark to grab my bag and chat with the family ( so much fun again) and stopped one more time to fill my bottles but the rest of the time was all go. So this summer, I did a lot of solo riding as Liz often had me riding on Sunday and nobody rides on Sunday or I rode solo because I was always behind Stewart. Paid off huge yesterday as mentally I was good the whole time! I was use to being alone and enjoyed the few conversations that I had with my fellow racers. In fact, the time seemed to go by really fast.
I started the run and felt good, was hoping to run steady enough, walk through the aid stations and average close to 9 minute mile. This worked for awhile and then I hit the hills! Holy Hilly! It was crazy! After the first 13 miles, I decided I didn't care if I met my goal, my new goal was to enjoy it, soak it in, and get to finish. Somehow I managed to get a PR from previous ironman runs but I seemed to be walking more than running. Before I knew it - I was rounding the corner to hit the finish line.
I have said it before and I will say it again. There is nothing like an ironman finish line! Just thinking about it brings me to tears. This is where all your training, dedication, hard work come together and it is so emotional and so amazing as you run through crazy screaming fans to bright lights, music, people cheering and giving you high five and your family there waiting!! After 12 hours and 41 minutes all my hard work this summer and the day was over! You can not imagine. I am so thankful that I have a body and mind that allows me to do this! I was once again reminded what a lucky girl I was!
Finally saw Stewart and saw that he had a great day and did an 11:52 on his first ironman even after possibly biking too hard ( surprise) and running like a crazy person with a 6:52 first mile. I was so proud of him and do not think I quit smiling the rest of the night!
I do have to brag - although he beat me by an hour - I beat him in the swim by 3 seconds and on the run by 15 minutes. Sorry baby... it wouldn't be right if I didn't throw that in there.
We went to mellow mushroom but I really couldn't eat and then we went to the finish line and brought home the last finishers. Truly inspiring! The last finisher made it with a minute to spare.
I couldn't sleep at all because my foot was killing me and my appetite finally returned so I found myself up before 5:00 and walking to waffle house for a quick snack.
So... for now - not sure what my plans are going to be. I am definitely taking some time to just be but I may have a half ironman in the future, race a half marathon, run sylamore and finally break my 6 hour time goal after being so close for two years, do ragbrai, or just become a sprint specialist. I do know that Stewart is more than likely going to sign up for Louiville Ironman. That I think - I mean I am pretty sure I am going to pass. I will just concentrate on my Sherpa skills starting with the NOLA 70.3... can't think of a better place to Sherpa and just as much as I hate riding in the heat - I really hate riding in the cold
Thanks Chattanooga Ironman!! You were awesome!
Monday, September 7, 2015
Trust your training - trust your coach- trust yourself
Trust your training- trust your coach- trust yourself. This will be my mantra for the next 20 days. Now is the time when I began to become afraid and question everything. Did you do enough? Did you do enough quality? Everyone seems to be doing more or less than you and possibly doing smarter and more quality work outs. This weekend especially as Stewart had a longer bike than me and all the doubts began to creep in... I should be doing more, maybe I will abandon my plan and jump on his but then I have to remember I pay and hired Liz cuz she is a smart lady. She knows what she is doing and she knows me. She just sent me an article about racing and fear and it had such great points.
Fear makes you realize that something is worth it. What fun would it be to do everything perfectly and know no one could beat you. The fear and the challenge is what makes it worth it and what makes the win meaningful. I definitely not going for a win at ironman but I would like a well executed day with a PR at the end. Fear has set in. I biked the course and it seemed harder than I remembered. The wind seemed extra fierce and all the doubts begin to creep in. I need to remember what I tell my cc kids everyday. The mind controls the body. I constantly make them tell I am a beast while doing hard work outs. I want them to think that instead of thinking I dying. Today I will start thinking I am a beast and will continue until I hear Mike Riely yell you are an ironman!! Just the thought of those words can bring me to tears and still give me chills. They have been repeated in my head during many of long training days. Taper is here but not really, I still have a pretty hard week but that just gives me more time to trust in myself
This weekend I raced a sprint and there is nothing like a sprint to remind me why I live triathlon. The great thing about IM training is it relaxes me. I am too busy and too tired to stress about a race. Race morning my race wheel had a piece of glass in it. After two attempts of changing the tire, we just stuck my training wheel back on. Did I hate it? Yes, stress about it ? No. Due to all my early wake up calls, I had no trouble getting to the race early which gave me extra time to talk and meet many of those around me. Much to Stewart just shaking his head. I did do a very short warm up and felt great in the water
Started the race with the female winner behind me and she was from Germantown. Funny to come out of town to meet a hometown triathlete. Based on her swim time, I knew she was faster. My plan was to hold her off as long as I could. She did catch me and I was kind of relieved because know I could draft. Unfortunately we only had 25 yds left. I did not pass anyone else but she was the only one to pass me. Although my swim was still slow as crap, it was faster for me!
We came out of water together and I made what I think the first mistake that could have cost me the win. We had a long run back to transition and for some reason, I became confused and ran under the taped area we were suppose to run in and entered transition from the wrong side. I knew I screwed up and looked around, saw what I was suppose to do, ran back out and corrected it. Although this cost me some time, what it did cost me was leaving transition with the first place girl. She only outbiked me by about 40 seconds and it makes me wonder what I could have done if we left head to head. I pushed hard on the bike abs repeated catch that group over and over in my head as I saw those in front of me. It was s hilly ride and I was pleased with my average. I have also gone from an all water drinker to a lover of scratch ( just a side note). I caught the then 2nd place girl with about a mile left and she did catch back up to enter T2 together. I know this is not always right but based on the fact that she outweighed me, I was planning on being the faster runner. T2 is my specialty- I was in and out and searching for the 1st place girl. The course was winding and hilly and you couldn't see who was in front of you. It was also hilly as hell. I knew the run would be my struggle. I need speed work and fast foot turn over to even attempt to be fast. I have had neither in IM training. 7:40's are fast for me these days. Not surprisingly my run pace was 7:30 ish. My second mistake was not taking a guy when I left T2. I felt so bonky but had no water until turn around to take mine and what a difference it made. So I am still looking and chasing and we did a little loop behind the school so I missed first place girl. And I begin to give up in my head. I settled for 2nd place. I knew 3rd was not close. I ended up beating her by 6 minutes! 1st outran me by 20 seconds!!! I did what I always tell my cc kids never to do! Don't give up and don't settle!! Stewart said later he heard them yell - here comes 1st girl and was sad it was not me. The great thing is I would have loved to win- who wouldn't but the days are beating myself up are over. I did what I could and I had a great time doing it!
Stewart has just turned into a beast. He was 5th or 6th overall and after good swim for him, a killer bike, he managed to run that hilly course with a 6:30 pace on legs that were trashed from ironman. It is amazing to see his improvement. He has already signed up for NOLA half and has his eye on another IM for next year - not me! I plan to be Sherpa extraordinaire and sprint race master. I also have requested that Stew take private swim lessons. He gets that swim fixed, he is going to be a beast
As we are 20 days out from Ironman and Stew begins his packing list. I am stressing over my underwear for the underwear run. They need to be perfect as well as the shirts that our awesome friend Liz is designing for our spectators
I have also started my post ironman list...
sleep in and lay around drinking coffee
Go to boot camp!
Go to yoga!
Girls weekend
Trip to Vegas with big daddy
Read
The possibilities are endless!!
The big dance is almost here ....
Fear makes you realize that something is worth it. What fun would it be to do everything perfectly and know no one could beat you. The fear and the challenge is what makes it worth it and what makes the win meaningful. I definitely not going for a win at ironman but I would like a well executed day with a PR at the end. Fear has set in. I biked the course and it seemed harder than I remembered. The wind seemed extra fierce and all the doubts begin to creep in. I need to remember what I tell my cc kids everyday. The mind controls the body. I constantly make them tell I am a beast while doing hard work outs. I want them to think that instead of thinking I dying. Today I will start thinking I am a beast and will continue until I hear Mike Riely yell you are an ironman!! Just the thought of those words can bring me to tears and still give me chills. They have been repeated in my head during many of long training days. Taper is here but not really, I still have a pretty hard week but that just gives me more time to trust in myself
This weekend I raced a sprint and there is nothing like a sprint to remind me why I live triathlon. The great thing about IM training is it relaxes me. I am too busy and too tired to stress about a race. Race morning my race wheel had a piece of glass in it. After two attempts of changing the tire, we just stuck my training wheel back on. Did I hate it? Yes, stress about it ? No. Due to all my early wake up calls, I had no trouble getting to the race early which gave me extra time to talk and meet many of those around me. Much to Stewart just shaking his head. I did do a very short warm up and felt great in the water
Started the race with the female winner behind me and she was from Germantown. Funny to come out of town to meet a hometown triathlete. Based on her swim time, I knew she was faster. My plan was to hold her off as long as I could. She did catch me and I was kind of relieved because know I could draft. Unfortunately we only had 25 yds left. I did not pass anyone else but she was the only one to pass me. Although my swim was still slow as crap, it was faster for me!
We came out of water together and I made what I think the first mistake that could have cost me the win. We had a long run back to transition and for some reason, I became confused and ran under the taped area we were suppose to run in and entered transition from the wrong side. I knew I screwed up and looked around, saw what I was suppose to do, ran back out and corrected it. Although this cost me some time, what it did cost me was leaving transition with the first place girl. She only outbiked me by about 40 seconds and it makes me wonder what I could have done if we left head to head. I pushed hard on the bike abs repeated catch that group over and over in my head as I saw those in front of me. It was s hilly ride and I was pleased with my average. I have also gone from an all water drinker to a lover of scratch ( just a side note). I caught the then 2nd place girl with about a mile left and she did catch back up to enter T2 together. I know this is not always right but based on the fact that she outweighed me, I was planning on being the faster runner. T2 is my specialty- I was in and out and searching for the 1st place girl. The course was winding and hilly and you couldn't see who was in front of you. It was also hilly as hell. I knew the run would be my struggle. I need speed work and fast foot turn over to even attempt to be fast. I have had neither in IM training. 7:40's are fast for me these days. Not surprisingly my run pace was 7:30 ish. My second mistake was not taking a guy when I left T2. I felt so bonky but had no water until turn around to take mine and what a difference it made. So I am still looking and chasing and we did a little loop behind the school so I missed first place girl. And I begin to give up in my head. I settled for 2nd place. I knew 3rd was not close. I ended up beating her by 6 minutes! 1st outran me by 20 seconds!!! I did what I always tell my cc kids never to do! Don't give up and don't settle!! Stewart said later he heard them yell - here comes 1st girl and was sad it was not me. The great thing is I would have loved to win- who wouldn't but the days are beating myself up are over. I did what I could and I had a great time doing it!
Stewart has just turned into a beast. He was 5th or 6th overall and after good swim for him, a killer bike, he managed to run that hilly course with a 6:30 pace on legs that were trashed from ironman. It is amazing to see his improvement. He has already signed up for NOLA half and has his eye on another IM for next year - not me! I plan to be Sherpa extraordinaire and sprint race master. I also have requested that Stew take private swim lessons. He gets that swim fixed, he is going to be a beast
As we are 20 days out from Ironman and Stew begins his packing list. I am stressing over my underwear for the underwear run. They need to be perfect as well as the shirts that our awesome friend Liz is designing for our spectators
I have also started my post ironman list...
sleep in and lay around drinking coffee
Go to boot camp!
Go to yoga!
Girls weekend
Trip to Vegas with big daddy
Read
The possibilities are endless!!
The big dance is almost here ....
Sunday, July 26, 2015
That I Needed......
As I drive to Chicago I am reflecting back on yesterday's race. Reviewing the good, the bad, how I felt etc is an important part of the race process. I am still all over the place when it comes to triathlon these days. I still say this may be my last season, it is time to move on and then the next thoughts are Just doing sprints seems appealing as well. As I put on my bathing suit, I said to Stewart this may be the last time I wear this suit as I will not wear it in ironman. I hope to squeeze in one more sprint before I close the season out with Chattanooga
So 4 weeks ago when I would think about this half, I was excited, I was ready to race, I wanted a PR. I felt like my performance at Waterfront was good but not what I wanted. I had trouble with getting my body to race after so many months of aerobic training. I thought the half would be perfect because I could race at just slightly higher than aerobic pace.
After Chattanooga, my work outs begin to really pick up. Two things happened, I lost about 4-5 lbs. even Riley was shocked when she saw me and my long bike rides begin to go to hell. Losing 4-5 lbs on me is huge and as I look back I think this could possibly be a contributing factor in these rides. I love junk but since marrying Stewart we just really don't eat it or buy it. My eating has really cleaned up but I have found with the type of training I have been putting in, I need junk. I have a high metabolism and pretty much clean eating and high miles were leaving me pretty lean.
On each long ride, I was getting nauseous, sick, headache, dizzy, clammy and just kind of out of it by the end. Most of these I pushed through. In Arkansas two weeks ago I knew pushing through was going to lead to an ER visit. I have done this sport long enough to know the difference between I am hot, tired, cranky, and ready to be done between something not right. After each of these rides I was scared. Scared because I knew I was looking at a big ole DNF in Chattanooga in the face. No way would my body have let me complete an Ironman
Nothing like an email from Liz with a big Fix it NOW to let u know u better get your butt in gear. Luckily I went on a big taper week and Riley was in town and I ate poorly and I ate a ton like I was still training high miles. This resulted with me going into the half closer to my old race weight. Believe me like any girl seeing low numbers on the scale is awesome but wisdom and maturity I also know that sometimes it is not ideal. I also began to quiz everyone on their nutrition and think back to years past and what I did then.
After talking with Liz, we decided that I wasn't getting in nearly enough calories on the bike nor enough electrolytes. Of course I wasn't because I felt sick and bloated and food and water just made me want to yak. We also decided That I was riding too hard and my hr was too high so my body could not properly digest the food
Believe me I stressed about it all week. Was I going to get my first ever DNF? What should I eat, what should I drink?? After a week of stressing, I was walking down in downtown Springfield and passed a beautiful cathedral. I told Stewart I need to go in here. My catholic upbringing took over and I was in there lighting a candle and saying a prayer. Yes praying for a triathlon. I did throw in some prayers for others who needed them for serious stuff so I wouldn't seem too self absorbed. Mostly I prayed for peace and a calm mind
That night I told Stewart I need to not think of this as a race but a long training day. I need to work on my nutrition, dial it back, relax, and if my fitness is there I will still have a good race. My mind was now relaxed and at peace
So I did not get a PR and I was 10-15 mins slower than hoped but the course and conditions were harder than I expected. The swim was a disaster. I am not sure what happens to me swimming in a large body of water but I just suck. I can't swim straight, I can't sight, I find myself swimming towards the bank instead of the buoys. The water was rough very rough and I was having a hard time getting a rhythm. It seemed I still kept running into people almost a mile into it. In fact you swam right at the beginning turned around and headed left. At this point, I swam head onto someone. Liz had told me with your fitness, you can swim this under 40 minutes. The thing is I don't get tired or winded, I just swim slow!! As I hit the turn around bouy for the Olympic distance race, I looked at my watch and saw 33 which I knew under 40 was not going to happen. In fact I swam my slowest half iron swim ever!!! I think it was long but of course I did. I did hear others say it as well. I decided that ironman swim straight down the river was going to be easier.
As I exited the swim I told myself to forget it. Nothing I could do now. Another girl racking her bike must have had the same thoughts because I heard her husband yell don't worry about it. The sad thing is in that mess of s swim I still passed many men who started 4 minutes ahead of me
The bike started and so did the head winds, the rain and a few slight rollers. This was a tougher ride than I anticipated. I saw lightening in the distance and really dark clouds but luckily we just got rain. One thought was in my mind eat and drink. Relax. I was already upset because with the head wind I wasn't riding as fast as I wanted. I let everything settle for about 15 mins and took my first gu. I was also using base salt because Liz said enduralytes were a no goal. Every 5 miles, I was suppose to stick my finger in , get some salt and lick. I also used this 5 miles to drink as well. Of course I drank at other times too but I liked this scheduled drinking. I did great on my fueling took in 3 bottles of water, bottle of scratch, Gus, power bar and honey stinger waffle. I also would feel hungry which was a good thing, my body was processing food. I met a guy on the ride and we rode the whole thing pretty much close. We often would ride side to side talking. This worked well with my dial it back attitude. Yes we could have got a blocking penalty Around mile 10 on a really windy section, my speed started going all over the place. It was showing me biking 3 mph. This proved to be a Godsend. I thought it was the wind blowing against the magnet but whatever the issue my computer was worthless. I had no idea how fast I was riding. Gone was the stress about holding a certain pace or I should be riding faster I just rode which felt right. It also was nice because at one point, I thought I was about 25 miles and realized I was at 37. Felt good on the bike. Caught and passed quite a few girls and people and as I began to approach the end of the ride, I decided since I was having no issues I would eat and prepare for the run. Smartest thing I could have done.
Got off the bike and had to pee ( here comes TMI ) but was thrilled to relieve myself all over myself during transition and at every water stop for the next 5 miles. Boy was I hydrated. Could not have been happier as I knew I fueled correctly.
I never run with a garmin but decided I would this race and once again great new decision. I knew I could run an 8:15-8:30 pace safely. I started out fast and remembered Liz saying everything feels easy the first 3 miles don't do it. With the help of garmin, I backed it down The rain stopped just in time for the run and came sun and humidity. The run was hilly but I could not have felt better. I continued with ice down top, ice over head, water, salt , gu and felt amazing!! The miles clicked off. Never walked the hills, never walked because of heat, tired, etc. Did walk through aid stations as planned. People were dropping like crazy , walking saying it is so hot and I was like thank you Memphis!!! Nothing more encouraging to have everyone cheering u on and saying u look so strong. Continues to pass more and more people to have a guy say I think u r 8th overall. I was more than pleased. It didn't even matter because I was having my race and I was winning. Before I knew it I was done! Came across the line, I was sore but hungry! Yes ... Body was using my food. I didn't need to take any anti nauseous meds as had been the habit
I am ready to tackle the last 9 weeks of ironman. It isn't going to be easy but I don't expect it to be but first a couple of R and R and no training in Chicago!!!
So 4 weeks ago when I would think about this half, I was excited, I was ready to race, I wanted a PR. I felt like my performance at Waterfront was good but not what I wanted. I had trouble with getting my body to race after so many months of aerobic training. I thought the half would be perfect because I could race at just slightly higher than aerobic pace.
After Chattanooga, my work outs begin to really pick up. Two things happened, I lost about 4-5 lbs. even Riley was shocked when she saw me and my long bike rides begin to go to hell. Losing 4-5 lbs on me is huge and as I look back I think this could possibly be a contributing factor in these rides. I love junk but since marrying Stewart we just really don't eat it or buy it. My eating has really cleaned up but I have found with the type of training I have been putting in, I need junk. I have a high metabolism and pretty much clean eating and high miles were leaving me pretty lean.
On each long ride, I was getting nauseous, sick, headache, dizzy, clammy and just kind of out of it by the end. Most of these I pushed through. In Arkansas two weeks ago I knew pushing through was going to lead to an ER visit. I have done this sport long enough to know the difference between I am hot, tired, cranky, and ready to be done between something not right. After each of these rides I was scared. Scared because I knew I was looking at a big ole DNF in Chattanooga in the face. No way would my body have let me complete an Ironman
Nothing like an email from Liz with a big Fix it NOW to let u know u better get your butt in gear. Luckily I went on a big taper week and Riley was in town and I ate poorly and I ate a ton like I was still training high miles. This resulted with me going into the half closer to my old race weight. Believe me like any girl seeing low numbers on the scale is awesome but wisdom and maturity I also know that sometimes it is not ideal. I also began to quiz everyone on their nutrition and think back to years past and what I did then.
After talking with Liz, we decided that I wasn't getting in nearly enough calories on the bike nor enough electrolytes. Of course I wasn't because I felt sick and bloated and food and water just made me want to yak. We also decided That I was riding too hard and my hr was too high so my body could not properly digest the food
Believe me I stressed about it all week. Was I going to get my first ever DNF? What should I eat, what should I drink?? After a week of stressing, I was walking down in downtown Springfield and passed a beautiful cathedral. I told Stewart I need to go in here. My catholic upbringing took over and I was in there lighting a candle and saying a prayer. Yes praying for a triathlon. I did throw in some prayers for others who needed them for serious stuff so I wouldn't seem too self absorbed. Mostly I prayed for peace and a calm mind
That night I told Stewart I need to not think of this as a race but a long training day. I need to work on my nutrition, dial it back, relax, and if my fitness is there I will still have a good race. My mind was now relaxed and at peace
So I did not get a PR and I was 10-15 mins slower than hoped but the course and conditions were harder than I expected. The swim was a disaster. I am not sure what happens to me swimming in a large body of water but I just suck. I can't swim straight, I can't sight, I find myself swimming towards the bank instead of the buoys. The water was rough very rough and I was having a hard time getting a rhythm. It seemed I still kept running into people almost a mile into it. In fact you swam right at the beginning turned around and headed left. At this point, I swam head onto someone. Liz had told me with your fitness, you can swim this under 40 minutes. The thing is I don't get tired or winded, I just swim slow!! As I hit the turn around bouy for the Olympic distance race, I looked at my watch and saw 33 which I knew under 40 was not going to happen. In fact I swam my slowest half iron swim ever!!! I think it was long but of course I did. I did hear others say it as well. I decided that ironman swim straight down the river was going to be easier.
As I exited the swim I told myself to forget it. Nothing I could do now. Another girl racking her bike must have had the same thoughts because I heard her husband yell don't worry about it. The sad thing is in that mess of s swim I still passed many men who started 4 minutes ahead of me
The bike started and so did the head winds, the rain and a few slight rollers. This was a tougher ride than I anticipated. I saw lightening in the distance and really dark clouds but luckily we just got rain. One thought was in my mind eat and drink. Relax. I was already upset because with the head wind I wasn't riding as fast as I wanted. I let everything settle for about 15 mins and took my first gu. I was also using base salt because Liz said enduralytes were a no goal. Every 5 miles, I was suppose to stick my finger in , get some salt and lick. I also used this 5 miles to drink as well. Of course I drank at other times too but I liked this scheduled drinking. I did great on my fueling took in 3 bottles of water, bottle of scratch, Gus, power bar and honey stinger waffle. I also would feel hungry which was a good thing, my body was processing food. I met a guy on the ride and we rode the whole thing pretty much close. We often would ride side to side talking. This worked well with my dial it back attitude. Yes we could have got a blocking penalty Around mile 10 on a really windy section, my speed started going all over the place. It was showing me biking 3 mph. This proved to be a Godsend. I thought it was the wind blowing against the magnet but whatever the issue my computer was worthless. I had no idea how fast I was riding. Gone was the stress about holding a certain pace or I should be riding faster I just rode which felt right. It also was nice because at one point, I thought I was about 25 miles and realized I was at 37. Felt good on the bike. Caught and passed quite a few girls and people and as I began to approach the end of the ride, I decided since I was having no issues I would eat and prepare for the run. Smartest thing I could have done.
Got off the bike and had to pee ( here comes TMI ) but was thrilled to relieve myself all over myself during transition and at every water stop for the next 5 miles. Boy was I hydrated. Could not have been happier as I knew I fueled correctly.
I never run with a garmin but decided I would this race and once again great new decision. I knew I could run an 8:15-8:30 pace safely. I started out fast and remembered Liz saying everything feels easy the first 3 miles don't do it. With the help of garmin, I backed it down The rain stopped just in time for the run and came sun and humidity. The run was hilly but I could not have felt better. I continued with ice down top, ice over head, water, salt , gu and felt amazing!! The miles clicked off. Never walked the hills, never walked because of heat, tired, etc. Did walk through aid stations as planned. People were dropping like crazy , walking saying it is so hot and I was like thank you Memphis!!! Nothing more encouraging to have everyone cheering u on and saying u look so strong. Continues to pass more and more people to have a guy say I think u r 8th overall. I was more than pleased. It didn't even matter because I was having my race and I was winning. Before I knew it I was done! Came across the line, I was sore but hungry! Yes ... Body was using my food. I didn't need to take any anti nauseous meds as had been the habit
I am ready to tackle the last 9 weeks of ironman. It isn't going to be easy but I don't expect it to be but first a couple of R and R and no training in Chicago!!!
Thursday, July 23, 2015
Racing Scared...
So...
I have a half ironman this weekend and if I recall I use to love to race a half. Really one of my favorite distances. I was really looking forward to this race and now I am scared! I think the last time I was this nervous before I was going into a race was IM wisconsion. I am soooo nervous and not because I don't feel fit. I actually feel really fit. Well fit to hold distances at a steady pace. If I had to sprint or run a mile faster then the mid 7's, I may just break down into one puddle of mess. So training was going really well - got the steroids for the foot and all was well and then I hit two disastrous weekends of long bike fueling. One of them I spent the last hour of the bike sick as a dog and just prayed to get off the bike but once I started running things were a little better but it was not good. I was determined that next week I needed to nail my nutrition. Well next week was a disaster. I didn't nail crap and was once again sick but this time I had an added pounding headache. Climbing back into the hot head wind the last 13 miles to get to my car were like a death march. More than once, I just wanted to sit on the side of the road and wait. What I was waiting for, I am not sure as the group I was with had dropped me and Stewart was on another route killing the 100 miles that I should have been riding. Finally made it back to my car and had another 30 minutes to ride and 30 minutes to run but I was done. The miles were not quality and I was pretty sure I was one step away from an IV. With these two disastrous long rides all confidence went with it. As well as my confidence to race a half. Now I have to stress about my nutrition the whole ride. Stress I will, I won't be able to shut that brain off. I am sure every slight stomach ache or head ache will have me thinking this is the beginning of the end.
What is going on with my nutrition I am not sure. I have always trained this way but it is not working. Possibly because I am riding a bit harder which is a good thing but I need to change my nutritional needs to follow this new energy output? Who knows? We are trying to figure it out? So I keep reminding myself to think of this weekend as training and not a race. But I am disappointed because I want to consider this a race... Yesterday on time hop an old race report popped up from last year. It was titled whatever... I was so relaxed at that race, no expectations. I want that feeling back! Last year it was easy because I wasn't training much but this year I am putting in a lot of work and I want some payback. I do have expectations!! To say I am obsessed with this weekend may be an understatement. I guess it is time to practice some mindfulness or stress relieving yoga or something. I just want Saturday to get here and for me to magically morp to the run! Preferably to mile 13 of the run. I also have been on a huge taper week and we all know that can make you nuts. My calves feel like they are going to rip out of my legs, I am so tired how can I every execute a 5 hour plus race. Taper is crap. It really is. I never do well on taper. I get a sore throat, I get a stomach ache, my legs may fall off, anything you can imagine....
Everyone says Ironman is a journey and this definitely has been one. I keep thinking it will be one more trial to add to my celebration as I cross the finish line. So this weekend I am asking for prayers, mojo, good thoughts from everyone. I am hoping my mind can relax and I can enjoy this distance that I love! Then as a bonus I get some R and R in Chicago and what is even better no training! So I sit here typing to hopefully take my mind off this race for a while and to have this report as a memory. Maybe next year when it pops up on time hop, I can think how silly I was to worry about something that turned out great!
Happy Racing....
I have a half ironman this weekend and if I recall I use to love to race a half. Really one of my favorite distances. I was really looking forward to this race and now I am scared! I think the last time I was this nervous before I was going into a race was IM wisconsion. I am soooo nervous and not because I don't feel fit. I actually feel really fit. Well fit to hold distances at a steady pace. If I had to sprint or run a mile faster then the mid 7's, I may just break down into one puddle of mess. So training was going really well - got the steroids for the foot and all was well and then I hit two disastrous weekends of long bike fueling. One of them I spent the last hour of the bike sick as a dog and just prayed to get off the bike but once I started running things were a little better but it was not good. I was determined that next week I needed to nail my nutrition. Well next week was a disaster. I didn't nail crap and was once again sick but this time I had an added pounding headache. Climbing back into the hot head wind the last 13 miles to get to my car were like a death march. More than once, I just wanted to sit on the side of the road and wait. What I was waiting for, I am not sure as the group I was with had dropped me and Stewart was on another route killing the 100 miles that I should have been riding. Finally made it back to my car and had another 30 minutes to ride and 30 minutes to run but I was done. The miles were not quality and I was pretty sure I was one step away from an IV. With these two disastrous long rides all confidence went with it. As well as my confidence to race a half. Now I have to stress about my nutrition the whole ride. Stress I will, I won't be able to shut that brain off. I am sure every slight stomach ache or head ache will have me thinking this is the beginning of the end.
What is going on with my nutrition I am not sure. I have always trained this way but it is not working. Possibly because I am riding a bit harder which is a good thing but I need to change my nutritional needs to follow this new energy output? Who knows? We are trying to figure it out? So I keep reminding myself to think of this weekend as training and not a race. But I am disappointed because I want to consider this a race... Yesterday on time hop an old race report popped up from last year. It was titled whatever... I was so relaxed at that race, no expectations. I want that feeling back! Last year it was easy because I wasn't training much but this year I am putting in a lot of work and I want some payback. I do have expectations!! To say I am obsessed with this weekend may be an understatement. I guess it is time to practice some mindfulness or stress relieving yoga or something. I just want Saturday to get here and for me to magically morp to the run! Preferably to mile 13 of the run. I also have been on a huge taper week and we all know that can make you nuts. My calves feel like they are going to rip out of my legs, I am so tired how can I every execute a 5 hour plus race. Taper is crap. It really is. I never do well on taper. I get a sore throat, I get a stomach ache, my legs may fall off, anything you can imagine....
Everyone says Ironman is a journey and this definitely has been one. I keep thinking it will be one more trial to add to my celebration as I cross the finish line. So this weekend I am asking for prayers, mojo, good thoughts from everyone. I am hoping my mind can relax and I can enjoy this distance that I love! Then as a bonus I get some R and R in Chicago and what is even better no training! So I sit here typing to hopefully take my mind off this race for a while and to have this report as a memory. Maybe next year when it pops up on time hop, I can think how silly I was to worry about something that turned out great!
Happy Racing....
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