The race is done. The goal that consumed most of my life for the past nine months is done leaving me feeling somewhat bereft and rudderless. But, that is a different story...
I was fortunate in that while the temperature highs were a little warmer than I would have liked, the lake itself was calmer and the starting temps were not as chilly as the previous day. The swim course was a train wreck. Because of the low water levels of the lake, the course was modified from the original long rectangle shape to an inverted triangle. The orange buoys that were supposed to mark the course boundary had either drifted or blew off their designated resting places and were sitting randomly in the middle of the course. The buoys marking the corners (turning points) were...WHITE! Seriously? White? White buoys that were 1,000 yards away that turn invisible on a cloudy day? SERIOUSLY?
I had signed up to be in the last wave of swimmers, as it was designated the "Safefy Wave" and intended for those who wanted to not worry about being in the crush of all the faster swimmers. We were told by one of the organizers that there kayakers out on the course with noodles if we needed a break and that they would be following us in as the last swimmers were finishing.
The rifle went off (yes, really a rifle), and the swimmers started walking into the depths. Another distinction from the non-safety wave was that I don't think anyone was running! It had to be the funniest looking thing in that the water stayed shallow for so long. People were still walking....and walking...and walking. My wetsuit was still causing me grief, so before the water got too deep, I went ahead and pulled it down off my torso.
After a few hundred meters, I looked up to sight and realized that I had gone off course, way to the right. No one was around me, including a kayak. I looked for the white buoy, but it was blocked from my sight by one of the random orange buoys. This further disoriented me. My heartrate and breathing rate began to rise. I flipped over on my back and flutter stroked for a while. When I turned back on my stomach, I could see the white buoy at last, but wow! it was LONG ways away. I continued to alternate between flipping on my back and checking my position for quite a while. I was a little anxious, and knew I needed to get my heart rate and breathing back under control. I finally was able to find my "Go" gear and get to the business of swimming. It was a good thing, since there was no one around to save me.
When I finished the swim and was trying to wade out of the mud, my right calf cramped so badly, I was immobilized again and almost in tears from the pain...and the anger...and the disappointment of my 1:06 swim time! Needless to say, I was NOT a happy camper...even though I had just overcome my biggest obstacle to triathlon.
My performance for the rest of the race was okay. My bike time wasn't too bad: 3:16. My emotions were running rampant; I started bawling three times while I was on the bike--relief, release, gratitude, you name it. My run was ok. It was a little slower than I had intended, but my right calf was a tight as piano wire, and my left not far behind it. Seeing so many of the Reds ahead me disheartened me a little.
So, while my day personally was disappointing, the whole experience of the day was priceless. ALL of us finished that race. We were allowed in the finish area when Robbin, our last Red Lady came through and we were all in tears. What a day! What a wonder culmination of eight long months!
I've been in a bit of a funk ever since the weekend. I'd been warned of the post-race depression that was common, but I didn't really think I'd feel that way. I figured I would just be so happy that it was done and I could look toward the next goal. I know that it is partly due to my disappointing time on the swim. Ah, well. At least it should something I can easily PR the next time. LOL. I already have a new wetsuit on the way!
Friday, September 30, 2011
Friday, September 23, 2011
Redman Eve
It's here. The day before Redman. I'm so ready. Sort of.
We did a Last Chance Workout, so to speak, today at Lake Hefner. Everyone on the message boards had been very worried that the water would be too warm for wetsuits. That won't be a problem. The water was 70 degrees this morning and with the lows going down below 50 tonight, it won't be warming up any too soon.
I almost think I would be better off if it weren't westsuit legal. My wetsuit has been problematic lately. At HyVee, I had to pull it down off my torso so I could expand my lungs enough to breath. Then, I wore it at a practice swim on Monday. The water at Lakewood was fairly cool. We swam about a mile there, and I had no problems. Today, the water being cold and choppy, I felt like I had issues again.
I haven't done much swimming in choppy water to begin with. That, along with the cold water freaked me out a bit, and I had a "moment" again. I made myself stay out there until I swam a few hundred feet comfortably. I do really believe that once I get into the race tomorrow, have the buoys clearly defining the space, see lots of kayaks around for safety, and can just GO, I'll be fine, but this again did give me pause. I think it was a good reality check to NEVER, NEVER, NEVER take the swim for granted.
The weather is probably going to serve up the worst on both ends...it will be cold for the swim and the start of the bike...and, it promises to be hot for the run. And, it could be windy on top of all that. Weather is never anything we can control, but just get to deal with what is served up. While I feel more than ready for this event, I am worried...worried about staying calm and focused on the swim; worried about my nutrition on the bike; worried about running in 80+ degree weather, when my body so quickly acclimated to the 60's and 70's KC has been serving up; worried about the unknown.
But, overall, I am so grateful. First and foremost, I'm grateful that I have the mere ability to swim, run and bike. Secondly, I'm grateful that I joined this group of amazing women that have so enriched my life in every way. We each came to the table with strengths and weaknesses. We've bolstered each other up and cheered for our successeses. I appreciate our coach and the time/planning she has done, but it is really these women that I have to credit to the fact that I'm sitting here in this hotel, writing these words and anticipating not only a triathlon, but my first half Ironman distance triathlon.
Go, Red Ladies! Be safe, race well, and Kick 'em in the NIBLETS!
We did a Last Chance Workout, so to speak, today at Lake Hefner. Everyone on the message boards had been very worried that the water would be too warm for wetsuits. That won't be a problem. The water was 70 degrees this morning and with the lows going down below 50 tonight, it won't be warming up any too soon.
I almost think I would be better off if it weren't westsuit legal. My wetsuit has been problematic lately. At HyVee, I had to pull it down off my torso so I could expand my lungs enough to breath. Then, I wore it at a practice swim on Monday. The water at Lakewood was fairly cool. We swam about a mile there, and I had no problems. Today, the water being cold and choppy, I felt like I had issues again.
I haven't done much swimming in choppy water to begin with. That, along with the cold water freaked me out a bit, and I had a "moment" again. I made myself stay out there until I swam a few hundred feet comfortably. I do really believe that once I get into the race tomorrow, have the buoys clearly defining the space, see lots of kayaks around for safety, and can just GO, I'll be fine, but this again did give me pause. I think it was a good reality check to NEVER, NEVER, NEVER take the swim for granted.
The weather is probably going to serve up the worst on both ends...it will be cold for the swim and the start of the bike...and, it promises to be hot for the run. And, it could be windy on top of all that. Weather is never anything we can control, but just get to deal with what is served up. While I feel more than ready for this event, I am worried...worried about staying calm and focused on the swim; worried about my nutrition on the bike; worried about running in 80+ degree weather, when my body so quickly acclimated to the 60's and 70's KC has been serving up; worried about the unknown.
But, overall, I am so grateful. First and foremost, I'm grateful that I have the mere ability to swim, run and bike. Secondly, I'm grateful that I joined this group of amazing women that have so enriched my life in every way. We each came to the table with strengths and weaknesses. We've bolstered each other up and cheered for our successeses. I appreciate our coach and the time/planning she has done, but it is really these women that I have to credit to the fact that I'm sitting here in this hotel, writing these words and anticipating not only a triathlon, but my first half Ironman distance triathlon.
Go, Red Ladies! Be safe, race well, and Kick 'em in the NIBLETS!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
More Race Practice
After eight long months of intense training, the event is almost here. I am officially in taper mode, though in all honesty, I started tapering last week after I finished the HyVee 5150 race. While I feel ready, I am still a little apprehensive. HyVee was my longest tri yet, and while the swim was almost as long as the half IM, the bike and run were a little less than half the distance. What it will feel like to put all three together is still an unknown. I only hope the cooler weather we've been experiencing here prevails in OKC next weekend, as I have already gotten pleasantly acclimated to the milder weather.
The HyVee 5150 (5150 being the total number of meters in the race: 1,500 swim, 40,000 bike and 10,000 run) was a great experience. Bea and I both signed up for the race; me, because I wanted the experience, especially in the swim, of the longer distance and Bea, because when she attempted the race several years ago, the race prevailed.
We were told at our pre-race meetings the day before that there was basically no likelihood of the water temperature being wetsuit legal. It had measured at 84 degrees and the possibility of it dropping six degrees was unlikely. I was okay with that; I'd practiced enough in open water that I wasn't worried about it. I just figured I'd be slower than normal. When we were preparing our stuff for the race, Bea asked me if I was going to go ahead and take my wetsuit. My first inclination was no, but then decided to throw it in at the last minute.
Miracle upon miracle, as we were walking to transition the morning of the race, the announcer was saying that the water temp had dropped to 74 making it legal to use a wetsuit. Yay!
The elite age groupers started the race first, at 6:45, so it was quite a wait before Bea's and then my heats took off. As I stood waiting for my turn to get into the water, I really wasn't nervous. I started out fine, however, as I got about 300 meters out, I noticed that I didn't feel that I could take a full breath and that my heart rate was starting to go up. I talked to myself quite a bit: slow down, take slow deep breaths... those techniques were not helping. So, I turned over on my back trying to will my heart rate down.
When I turned back on my stomach, a couple on a Sea-Doo asked if I was okay. I thought a moment and then waved them over. They threw me a floaty and I still tried to calm my heart rate. Since I knew that I had plenty of open water practice, I knew there was something else causing the issue. My wetsuit felt too constrictive. I unzipped it, tossed the floaty back to the couple and started out again.
I still couldn't catch my breath. As I treaded water, so many thoughts were going through my head. Was I going to have to get out? I looked around me and thought, there's still a lot of course ahead of me. But, all the swag I got...I won't be able to use it if I bail again! A girl in a kayak was nearby, so I waved her over. Holding on to the nose of the kayak, I pulled the top of my wetsuit off and let it fall to my waist. The couple on the Sea-Doo again asked me if I was ready to get out. It was obvious that they wanted me to either move on or get out. After a little more assistance from various floatation devices, I finally felt that I had caught my breath enough to go on.
It spent the next several hundred meters praying to God and the next several after that thanking Him as I was able to get back into my rhythm and finish the swim. My heart rate went back to normal and I started enjoying the swim again. I even seemed to pass several people. Getting out of the water was a little weird as my legs didn't really want to hold me up. (Note to self: when Liz mentioned kicking the last hundred yards or so, really kick!).
The rest of the race was uneventful. It was the most gorgeous day, sunny and in the low 70's by the time I finished. I finally caught Bea at mile 3 of the run and we finished the race together. I'm glad I learned that I'm too fat for my wetsuit at that race and not at Redman, so many valuable lessons were learned indeed.
So, now Redman is sneaking up. I am sort of in a taper slump. I want to get it over with, and don't feel compelled to do the rest of the workouts (I am making myself do most of them). I am tired of the all-consuming nature this training has taken in my life. Triathlon is a very self-absorbing occupation, taking up most of my free time. But, on the other hand, I am so grateful that I have been able to do this training. I feel strong and in shape. I'm nearing the home stretch on this journey and it's been quite a ride.
The HyVee 5150 (5150 being the total number of meters in the race: 1,500 swim, 40,000 bike and 10,000 run) was a great experience. Bea and I both signed up for the race; me, because I wanted the experience, especially in the swim, of the longer distance and Bea, because when she attempted the race several years ago, the race prevailed.
We were told at our pre-race meetings the day before that there was basically no likelihood of the water temperature being wetsuit legal. It had measured at 84 degrees and the possibility of it dropping six degrees was unlikely. I was okay with that; I'd practiced enough in open water that I wasn't worried about it. I just figured I'd be slower than normal. When we were preparing our stuff for the race, Bea asked me if I was going to go ahead and take my wetsuit. My first inclination was no, but then decided to throw it in at the last minute.
Miracle upon miracle, as we were walking to transition the morning of the race, the announcer was saying that the water temp had dropped to 74 making it legal to use a wetsuit. Yay!
The elite age groupers started the race first, at 6:45, so it was quite a wait before Bea's and then my heats took off. As I stood waiting for my turn to get into the water, I really wasn't nervous. I started out fine, however, as I got about 300 meters out, I noticed that I didn't feel that I could take a full breath and that my heart rate was starting to go up. I talked to myself quite a bit: slow down, take slow deep breaths... those techniques were not helping. So, I turned over on my back trying to will my heart rate down.
When I turned back on my stomach, a couple on a Sea-Doo asked if I was okay. I thought a moment and then waved them over. They threw me a floaty and I still tried to calm my heart rate. Since I knew that I had plenty of open water practice, I knew there was something else causing the issue. My wetsuit felt too constrictive. I unzipped it, tossed the floaty back to the couple and started out again.
I still couldn't catch my breath. As I treaded water, so many thoughts were going through my head. Was I going to have to get out? I looked around me and thought, there's still a lot of course ahead of me. But, all the swag I got...I won't be able to use it if I bail again! A girl in a kayak was nearby, so I waved her over. Holding on to the nose of the kayak, I pulled the top of my wetsuit off and let it fall to my waist. The couple on the Sea-Doo again asked me if I was ready to get out. It was obvious that they wanted me to either move on or get out. After a little more assistance from various floatation devices, I finally felt that I had caught my breath enough to go on.
It spent the next several hundred meters praying to God and the next several after that thanking Him as I was able to get back into my rhythm and finish the swim. My heart rate went back to normal and I started enjoying the swim again. I even seemed to pass several people. Getting out of the water was a little weird as my legs didn't really want to hold me up. (Note to self: when Liz mentioned kicking the last hundred yards or so, really kick!).
The rest of the race was uneventful. It was the most gorgeous day, sunny and in the low 70's by the time I finished. I finally caught Bea at mile 3 of the run and we finished the race together. I'm glad I learned that I'm too fat for my wetsuit at that race and not at Redman, so many valuable lessons were learned indeed.
So, now Redman is sneaking up. I am sort of in a taper slump. I want to get it over with, and don't feel compelled to do the rest of the workouts (I am making myself do most of them). I am tired of the all-consuming nature this training has taken in my life. Triathlon is a very self-absorbing occupation, taking up most of my free time. But, on the other hand, I am so grateful that I have been able to do this training. I feel strong and in shape. I'm nearing the home stretch on this journey and it's been quite a ride.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Countdown begins
Redman is less than a month away. It is hard to believe that the days are counting down.
This weekend, I am going to Des Moines to participate in the HyVee Triathlon, an Olympic distance. It is also called a 5150, which represents the total number of meters in the event: 1500 meter swim, 40 kilometer bike, 10 kilometer run. The water temperature at Gray's Lake is still in the 80's, so it won't be wetsuit-legal. I am not concerned, though I knew when I see the course for the first time, it will be a bit freaky, as it will look like a heck of a long way. But, I know I can do it, wetsuit or not as I've done the distance many times before. I anticipate it to take me about three hours give or take to finish.
Tomorrow I will turn 50, finally catching up to the age group that I have been racing in this year. Another milestone that is hard to believe.
I still have a couple more hard weeks of training before the goal race arrives, even though mentally, I am ready for it to be over. The long rides we did in anticipation of the Eurekan, while necessary to be successful for that event, have taken their toll. I'm tired of the long bike rides, even though I know I need to continue to get the bike miles under my belt.
I hope that after this race, I will get a second wind and finish strong on this journey that has taken me so far. Regardless, the goal is in sight...I just need to keep my eye on the prize and one foot in front of the other.
This weekend, I am going to Des Moines to participate in the HyVee Triathlon, an Olympic distance. It is also called a 5150, which represents the total number of meters in the event: 1500 meter swim, 40 kilometer bike, 10 kilometer run. The water temperature at Gray's Lake is still in the 80's, so it won't be wetsuit-legal. I am not concerned, though I knew when I see the course for the first time, it will be a bit freaky, as it will look like a heck of a long way. But, I know I can do it, wetsuit or not as I've done the distance many times before. I anticipate it to take me about three hours give or take to finish.
Tomorrow I will turn 50, finally catching up to the age group that I have been racing in this year. Another milestone that is hard to believe.
I still have a couple more hard weeks of training before the goal race arrives, even though mentally, I am ready for it to be over. The long rides we did in anticipation of the Eurekan, while necessary to be successful for that event, have taken their toll. I'm tired of the long bike rides, even though I know I need to continue to get the bike miles under my belt.
I hope that after this race, I will get a second wind and finish strong on this journey that has taken me so far. Regardless, the goal is in sight...I just need to keep my eye on the prize and one foot in front of the other.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
The Eurekan
To keep things interesting, a group of us have signed up to do the Eurekan Sports Festival, a 3-day event in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. This consists of a very short sprint tri on Friday afternoon, a century bike ride on Saturday and a 10K race Sunday morning. We have been incorporating long bike rides into our training plan to prepare for what I'm sure will be a very arduous ride on Saturday.
We did a 90-mile (I cut it short at 82) ride around Parkville, MO on Saturday, which was indeed arduous. It was extremely hard with really long climbs and warm temps. I had plenty of time to feel sorry for myself! But, at the same time, I had a great feeling of accomplishment for being able to suffer through it. I am still somewhat apprehensive about what to expect in Arkansas. Having been to that area many times, I know it will be hard...
But, it will be fun. When it's over. :)
We did a 90-mile (I cut it short at 82) ride around Parkville, MO on Saturday, which was indeed arduous. It was extremely hard with really long climbs and warm temps. I had plenty of time to feel sorry for myself! But, at the same time, I had a great feeling of accomplishment for being able to suffer through it. I am still somewhat apprehensive about what to expect in Arkansas. Having been to that area many times, I know it will be hard...
But, it will be fun. When it's over. :)
Sunday, July 31, 2011
WIN For KC Tri
I made it through my first open water tri! WIN was a very fun race. I was greeted for body marking by my good friend, Barb, which was a nice start to the day. Shortly after I got my gear set up in transition, the overcast sky let loose a some thunder, lightning and ultimately rain. The race was delayed by an hour, but it was okay, as the temps were blessedly cool and the cloud cover remained for the rest of my race. Awesome!
Obviously, my biggest concern was the swim. It was done in a time trial style where we started the swim singly every three seconds. I was lined up toward the back in the 13-minute pace group with Lisa, a fellow Red Lady. We were chatting and reminding each other to "go slow, stay in the moment, not think, etc." which made the 30-minute wait go by much faster. Suddenly, it was our turn.
"GO!" Crap. I walked out into the water and started swimming. Immediately, I managed to get a snoot full of water. For a moment, I felt my heart rate accelerate and my breathing go off, but this time I managed to rein myself in and get into the rhythm.
The swim was FINE! I just kept stroking, one arm at a time, and before I knew it, I had made the last turn and was heading down the backstretch. Sweet success! With the swim behind me, the rest was a piece of cake...or at least, I knew I could do the rest.
Being in the back of the swim pack gave me the opportunity to catch up to and pass many ladies on the bike. The 10-mile course was flat with slight rollers to keep it interesting. Since it was short, I pushed it as hard as I could and was rewarded with a 19 mph average, my best ever.
The run was on a bike path that was also mostly flat-ish. Because the cooler temps continued to prevail, I felt pretty good on the run and managed an 8:01 pace in spite of my water-soaked running shoes. A great day all in all! Fourth place in my age group, by a few seconds. The first place winner in my age group, was quite a bit faster, but the next three of use were within 50 seconds of each other. Both of the other gals had much faster swims, but we were otherwise close. I could have moved up a position, if I hadn't been such a slow swimmer. (How quickly my attitude moved from "surviving the swim" to getting faster on the swim. Ha! However, I was happy with the results today!
What was really wonderful was the fact that there were several people at the race that had also been at Tinman. They were so very supportive and truly happy for me that I had successfully completed the swim. This is what I've found in this community...a lot of ordinary people with an extraordinary amount caring for each other. I think the difference I've seen here compared to just runners, is that everyone struggles with at least one aspect of this sport. There's more empathy and tolerance as we strive to do the best we can do.
Obviously, my biggest concern was the swim. It was done in a time trial style where we started the swim singly every three seconds. I was lined up toward the back in the 13-minute pace group with Lisa, a fellow Red Lady. We were chatting and reminding each other to "go slow, stay in the moment, not think, etc." which made the 30-minute wait go by much faster. Suddenly, it was our turn.
"GO!" Crap. I walked out into the water and started swimming. Immediately, I managed to get a snoot full of water. For a moment, I felt my heart rate accelerate and my breathing go off, but this time I managed to rein myself in and get into the rhythm.
The swim was FINE! I just kept stroking, one arm at a time, and before I knew it, I had made the last turn and was heading down the backstretch. Sweet success! With the swim behind me, the rest was a piece of cake...or at least, I knew I could do the rest.
Being in the back of the swim pack gave me the opportunity to catch up to and pass many ladies on the bike. The 10-mile course was flat with slight rollers to keep it interesting. Since it was short, I pushed it as hard as I could and was rewarded with a 19 mph average, my best ever.
The run was on a bike path that was also mostly flat-ish. Because the cooler temps continued to prevail, I felt pretty good on the run and managed an 8:01 pace in spite of my water-soaked running shoes. A great day all in all! Fourth place in my age group, by a few seconds. The first place winner in my age group, was quite a bit faster, but the next three of use were within 50 seconds of each other. Both of the other gals had much faster swims, but we were otherwise close. I could have moved up a position, if I hadn't been such a slow swimmer. (How quickly my attitude moved from "surviving the swim" to getting faster on the swim. Ha! However, I was happy with the results today!
What was really wonderful was the fact that there were several people at the race that had also been at Tinman. They were so very supportive and truly happy for me that I had successfully completed the swim. This is what I've found in this community...a lot of ordinary people with an extraordinary amount caring for each other. I think the difference I've seen here compared to just runners, is that everyone struggles with at least one aspect of this sport. There's more empathy and tolerance as we strive to do the best we can do.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Next Test
So, my next test is coming up tomorrow at the WIN for KC Tri. It will be my first competition open water swim since the debacle at Tinman. As it would go, my swim at Shawnee Mission Park was not as good as my previous one at Kill Creek. It seemed to take me a while to fully relax. There were quite a few women there getting doing their last chance workout and funny, I seemed to have gotten bumped around more by them than when there are more guys at the swimming hole.
Oddly, I am feeling much more acclimated to the heat. Prairie Punisher duathlon was last Saturday in 100 degree heat, but I felt pretty good about my performance there. My first 5K was my fastest of the season, and I tried to run it conservatively. I finally got my bike speed up to 18 mph which is HUGE for me. I was a slacker on the second 5K, but it was HOT!
The weather is supposed to break a little this weekend, hopefully. And the race is relatively short...500 meter, 10 miles, 5K so I won't be out there that long. I'm a little nervous, but I think it will be ok...
Oddly, I am feeling much more acclimated to the heat. Prairie Punisher duathlon was last Saturday in 100 degree heat, but I felt pretty good about my performance there. My first 5K was my fastest of the season, and I tried to run it conservatively. I finally got my bike speed up to 18 mph which is HUGE for me. I was a slacker on the second 5K, but it was HOT!
The weather is supposed to break a little this weekend, hopefully. And the race is relatively short...500 meter, 10 miles, 5K so I won't be out there that long. I'm a little nervous, but I think it will be ok...
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Long Ride
Some of the Red Ladies have foolishy signed up for the Eurekan Multisport Festival in Eureka Springs, AR in August. It is a three-day event consisting of a short triathlon on Friday, a century bike ride on Saturday and 10K run on Sunday. There are shorter options for the bike ride and the run, but I'm told you are not a Eurekan if you do the shorter distances. I have been to Eureka Springs on many occasions, having grown up a short drive away. It is HILLY. I have big concerns about the century ride, as hills on the bike are not my strong point.
So, Liz, the Red Ladies coach started incorporating training into our workout plans for this event. Today, while the smarter Reds who are not involved in this race, had a mere 45 mile ride, the rest of us had a 70-mile doozy to take care of. Oh, and there is a heat advisory here until next Friday. Ugh.
So, we met at Julie's at the crack o' dawn, 5:30 this morning. The route was nice, challenging in places, relatively flat in places. I felt great until the heat came on around 10:30.We are over 40 miles out by then, but were still looking at another 30 to get through.
My favorite moment was at about mile 54. I had had a few bad moments due to the heat. I started getting a sharp heat headache, as my mom used to call them when I was a kid, and my stomach was bothering me. It had been a little "off" all week, I think mainly due to this beastly heatwave we've had. We were riding through the little town of Bucyrus, which seemed pretty deserted. I spotted an empty building that had big porch on the front and some delicious shade. I stopped there and somehow managed to move my body from the bike to the porch. By the time Jen, Hannah and Julie joined me, I was sprawled out flat on my back, my bike helmet making a nice cushion for my head. The four of us were moaning and groaning about how we just didn't think we could make the full 70 miles in the heat. But, we got our asses off the porch and finished the ride. Woo Hoo!
That was my longest ride to-date and oh my, it was miserably hot. We all continue to make new milestones in our journey to Redman. And, we continue to forge friendships that I believe will stand the test of time. I LOVE this varied group of Red Ladies and don't know what I would do without them. It certainly wouldn't be complete a half IM, as the previous years will attest.
In Liz's words, Onward and Upward!
So, Liz, the Red Ladies coach started incorporating training into our workout plans for this event. Today, while the smarter Reds who are not involved in this race, had a mere 45 mile ride, the rest of us had a 70-mile doozy to take care of. Oh, and there is a heat advisory here until next Friday. Ugh.
So, we met at Julie's at the crack o' dawn, 5:30 this morning. The route was nice, challenging in places, relatively flat in places. I felt great until the heat came on around 10:30.We are over 40 miles out by then, but were still looking at another 30 to get through.
My favorite moment was at about mile 54. I had had a few bad moments due to the heat. I started getting a sharp heat headache, as my mom used to call them when I was a kid, and my stomach was bothering me. It had been a little "off" all week, I think mainly due to this beastly heatwave we've had. We were riding through the little town of Bucyrus, which seemed pretty deserted. I spotted an empty building that had big porch on the front and some delicious shade. I stopped there and somehow managed to move my body from the bike to the porch. By the time Jen, Hannah and Julie joined me, I was sprawled out flat on my back, my bike helmet making a nice cushion for my head. The four of us were moaning and groaning about how we just didn't think we could make the full 70 miles in the heat. But, we got our asses off the porch and finished the ride. Woo Hoo!
That was my longest ride to-date and oh my, it was miserably hot. We all continue to make new milestones in our journey to Redman. And, we continue to forge friendships that I believe will stand the test of time. I LOVE this varied group of Red Ladies and don't know what I would do without them. It certainly wouldn't be complete a half IM, as the previous years will attest.
In Liz's words, Onward and Upward!
Friday, July 15, 2011
71 Days Till Redman
I'm happy to report that the open water swimming is going well. I've been out to various venues several times now and have gotten very comfortable. I even enjoy it! Who'd a thunk?? I did buy a speed suit and part of my mind believes that it gives me the tiniest bit of buoyancy. I don't know if it does or doesn't and I don't care. It's USAT and WTC legal, so if it my new security blanket, so be it.
My next race is WIN for KC on July 30th. It's a 500-meter swim, 10-mile bike and 5K run. I'm still a little anxious about it, but there is absolutely no reason that I can't complete that swim. I did six consecutive laps at Shawnee Mission Park Thursday night, which is more than twice the distance I need to go. I've even signed up for an Olympic distance tri over Labor Day weekend. Nothing thumbs one's nose at turning fifty than doing a 5150 on one's birthday weekend. :)
Tomorrow, I am meeting the group at 5:30 a.m. to ride 70 miles. I foolishly signed up for a three-day event in Eureka Springs, AR, which includes a very short triathlon, a Century ride and a 10K run. Doing a Century ride has been on the bucket list, but I didn't really intend to do my first one in Eureka Springs. It will be hilly, hilly, hilly and I'm not even sure if I can finish 100 miles at this point.
I guess I'll be testing the old adage, "what doesn't kill you will make you stronger.
My next race is WIN for KC on July 30th. It's a 500-meter swim, 10-mile bike and 5K run. I'm still a little anxious about it, but there is absolutely no reason that I can't complete that swim. I did six consecutive laps at Shawnee Mission Park Thursday night, which is more than twice the distance I need to go. I've even signed up for an Olympic distance tri over Labor Day weekend. Nothing thumbs one's nose at turning fifty than doing a 5150 on one's birthday weekend. :)
Tomorrow, I am meeting the group at 5:30 a.m. to ride 70 miles. I foolishly signed up for a three-day event in Eureka Springs, AR, which includes a very short triathlon, a Century ride and a 10K run. Doing a Century ride has been on the bucket list, but I didn't really intend to do my first one in Eureka Springs. It will be hilly, hilly, hilly and I'm not even sure if I can finish 100 miles at this point.
I guess I'll be testing the old adage, "what doesn't kill you will make you stronger.
Friday, July 8, 2011
More Swimmmm
This week was my first attempt to swim at Shawnee Mission Park "naked." No, not literally naked, but without my wetsuit. And, not really even naked at that. I had to send the first speed suit back to Xterra becasue they had sent a full length one instead of the short one and it just coincidentally arrived at my house before I left for the park.
The speed suit is made of a very thin, stretchy rubbery-feeling material. I had read on various sites that even though they are very thin, they still provide a tiny bit of buoyancy. Intellectually, I can't really understand how they would...they are so very thin. However, whether it was a psychological thing or not, I did feel that it helped me float a little better. Regardless of real or imagined, I DON'T care! They are legal for triathlons.
I was ecstatic that I swam a good 1200 yards out there Thursday. I was relaxed and in the moment and even enjoying the swim. It gave my confidence an huge boost.I know now that I will be able to do the WIN for KC women's triathlon in three weeks, which is nice since it cost almost $90 to enter.
Tomorrow, I'm meeting Bea at her in-laws to do a mock tri. It's just going to be the two of us, so I hope that I don't do something stupid and end up scaring myself, thus undoing all my new progress. But, I still need all the open water practice I can squeeze in.
After I see how tomorrow goes, I may sign up for the HyVee 50150 (fifty-one fifty, which is how many yards the Olympic distance consists of). It's a big deal race because it has a pro component to it. It's Labor Day weekend and in Des Moines...my Oly race before Redman.
I am so excited about my swim progress. I just may be a triathlete yet!
The speed suit is made of a very thin, stretchy rubbery-feeling material. I had read on various sites that even though they are very thin, they still provide a tiny bit of buoyancy. Intellectually, I can't really understand how they would...they are so very thin. However, whether it was a psychological thing or not, I did feel that it helped me float a little better. Regardless of real or imagined, I DON'T care! They are legal for triathlons.
I was ecstatic that I swam a good 1200 yards out there Thursday. I was relaxed and in the moment and even enjoying the swim. It gave my confidence an huge boost.I know now that I will be able to do the WIN for KC women's triathlon in three weeks, which is nice since it cost almost $90 to enter.
Tomorrow, I'm meeting Bea at her in-laws to do a mock tri. It's just going to be the two of us, so I hope that I don't do something stupid and end up scaring myself, thus undoing all my new progress. But, I still need all the open water practice I can squeeze in.
After I see how tomorrow goes, I may sign up for the HyVee 50150 (fifty-one fifty, which is how many yards the Olympic distance consists of). It's a big deal race because it has a pro component to it. It's Labor Day weekend and in Des Moines...my Oly race before Redman.
I am so excited about my swim progress. I just may be a triathlete yet!
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Heat Wave
The dog days of summer have arrived with a vengence. I went out with some fellow Red Ladies this morning at the crack of dawn to do our long ride. By the time we finished our 49 miles, we were feeling the heat. Ugh. Now, to repeat the process tomorrow morning as I meet Marcela at 6:00 a.m. to run our scheduled 11 miles. I had thought about doing the Lenexa Freedom Run on Monday, but I am ready for one day of sleeping in!
Along with the heat rising, I'm finding my entusiasm flagging. So, I polled the gals this week, asking them how they were keeping their motivation going through what is becoming to me, some drudgery to get through the training. There was a grueling group track workout on Wednesday night, which I had skipped, partly because I had an invitation to get together for happy hour with a former co-worker I had not seen in a while and partly because I just didn't want to do it.
Me: "Are any of you finding that this training schedule is starting to feel a bit like a monotonous grind? We've been hard at it for six months (and some of us that started with the fall base camp, it's been longer than that). My motivation is flagging. I can feel accomplished one week that I got the workouts in only to face another week of more of the same (or even MORE of more of the same).
What are you all doing to keep your heads focused on the goal? Is it just me?
Still I slog on. But I would like to instill some of the excitement I felt three months ago once again. I'd love to hear your thoughts."
I got some of the most amazing answers.
From Julie, "I, too go through lows. But when I attend a group workout it seems as though there is much energy from the group, even though there are many complaining about weather, Matilda workouts etc.... Even with complaints there is a positive energy from you all. Yesterday I looked at Robbin who was out in the heat and fighting her worst discipline (running) and thought WOW she is working really hard, it sucked, but she was trying. So seeing her busting butt just gave me more inspiration to continue. There are little things that keep me positive, like now I can ride up hills that last year I could not or had to pull over to rest. Or running the HH never stopping except for walking the water stations and one time I could not open my wrapper. You know me I hate running and stop all the time because I have bad thoughts.
I think of us as one big family drinking the kool-aid.
Just remember we are ALL doing this. I told Tricia two weeks ago that I wanted to drop out of Red-ladies, because I am feeling soooo bad. So your not the only one that feels bad. Just need to lean on one another, and maybe have more social events. Even if its meeting at McDonald's with the girls so they can bring their kids. "
From Stephanie, "I agree that we need more group workouts. I think the day to day grind of training together with everything we do as women wears us down. We've been at it now awhile. Nothing beats positive female energy. Nothing beats giving each other compliments (thank you Julie). There's never a day that that devil triathlete who sits on my left shoulder tells me to just give up, but then, I think about September 24th coming and going and not having done Redman. When my father died a few years ago, I told myself that I am not going to live life with any regrets. Where will we find such a group of strong motivated funny women to train with again? It really is something special. We've come this far, we go the rest of the way together. Now, Julie, it's time to drink the Kool Aid! Cheers!"
Fron Robbin, " Julie and I were discussing the other day how unique and great this group is, if for no other reason than there is not a diva among us.
I appreciate the kind words Julie- that its the stuff that helps to keep me going, especially when I feel that I have been a total drag on the rest of you. Last night sucked for me, but here I am, heading to the gym to swim 2,000 because quitting for me is just not an option. I want to feel good about myself again, and despite the bad days and homicidal thoughts - this is helping to get me there.
My self-deprication and sarcasm is how I cope, but you are all making it easier to handle the bad days."
From Bea, " I'm glad I'm not the only one feeling like this. I struggle getting the workouts in. I feel like I do really good for a week and then start falling short the following week. I tend to slack quite a bit but then get back on track. I do feel a little burned out at times. I really enjoy the group workouts I just wish I lived closer. I really love this group. There is so much support and positive energy. Seeing all of you at Kansas 70.3 supporting either by email or physically being there gave me so much strength it was really amazing. You guys are one of the reasons I haven't left the group and training. I look forward to the group training and all the daily email from the group. "
From Marcela, "I'm so glad someone told me 'there is this group of women training for Redman!, you should contact Liz'. To think that I was attempting this on my own seems very crazy now!!!
I love the group workouts, and I'm all for more of them! I like collective sweating (yes, Steph, even inside my eyes!! that stings, doesn't it? we need headbands! RED ones!!).
I also love the support and the good vibes. It had never ocurred to me, but Robin is right when she says there are no divas in our group. That's really nice!
So, let's keep going upward and onward!!! 86 days left!!!"
The thing about triathlon is that most people (and I would even hazard a guess that no one) excels at all three aspects of this sport. We each have a weak area or two or THREE that is harder than another. This group is no different. Some are best at swimming, some biking, some running. We each have our strengths and are ready to be there for someone else who is deficient.
This is an amazing group of women that I've come to admire and appreciate from the soles of my feet. We have come together as mostly strangers and bonded in ways that is not always common among groups of women. I've received an outpouring of support in my swimming endeavors, as well. Just reading over these comments make my eyes tear up a little.
Like Robbin says, Quitting is just not an option! Slog on!
(And, thank God for wetsuits that will keep me afloat at Redman.)
I am honored to count myself among these incredible Red Ladies!
Along with the heat rising, I'm finding my entusiasm flagging. So, I polled the gals this week, asking them how they were keeping their motivation going through what is becoming to me, some drudgery to get through the training. There was a grueling group track workout on Wednesday night, which I had skipped, partly because I had an invitation to get together for happy hour with a former co-worker I had not seen in a while and partly because I just didn't want to do it.
Me: "Are any of you finding that this training schedule is starting to feel a bit like a monotonous grind? We've been hard at it for six months (and some of us that started with the fall base camp, it's been longer than that). My motivation is flagging. I can feel accomplished one week that I got the workouts in only to face another week of more of the same (or even MORE of more of the same).
What are you all doing to keep your heads focused on the goal? Is it just me?
Still I slog on. But I would like to instill some of the excitement I felt three months ago once again. I'd love to hear your thoughts."
I got some of the most amazing answers.
From Julie, "I, too go through lows. But when I attend a group workout it seems as though there is much energy from the group, even though there are many complaining about weather, Matilda workouts etc.... Even with complaints there is a positive energy from you all. Yesterday I looked at Robbin who was out in the heat and fighting her worst discipline (running) and thought WOW she is working really hard, it sucked, but she was trying. So seeing her busting butt just gave me more inspiration to continue. There are little things that keep me positive, like now I can ride up hills that last year I could not or had to pull over to rest. Or running the HH never stopping except for walking the water stations and one time I could not open my wrapper. You know me I hate running and stop all the time because I have bad thoughts.
I think of us as one big family drinking the kool-aid.
Just remember we are ALL doing this. I told Tricia two weeks ago that I wanted to drop out of Red-ladies, because I am feeling soooo bad. So your not the only one that feels bad. Just need to lean on one another, and maybe have more social events. Even if its meeting at McDonald's with the girls so they can bring their kids. "
From Stephanie, "I agree that we need more group workouts. I think the day to day grind of training together with everything we do as women wears us down. We've been at it now awhile. Nothing beats positive female energy. Nothing beats giving each other compliments (thank you Julie). There's never a day that that devil triathlete who sits on my left shoulder tells me to just give up, but then, I think about September 24th coming and going and not having done Redman. When my father died a few years ago, I told myself that I am not going to live life with any regrets. Where will we find such a group of strong motivated funny women to train with again? It really is something special. We've come this far, we go the rest of the way together. Now, Julie, it's time to drink the Kool Aid! Cheers!"
Fron Robbin, " Julie and I were discussing the other day how unique and great this group is, if for no other reason than there is not a diva among us.
I appreciate the kind words Julie- that its the stuff that helps to keep me going, especially when I feel that I have been a total drag on the rest of you. Last night sucked for me, but here I am, heading to the gym to swim 2,000 because quitting for me is just not an option. I want to feel good about myself again, and despite the bad days and homicidal thoughts - this is helping to get me there.
My self-deprication and sarcasm is how I cope, but you are all making it easier to handle the bad days."
From Bea, " I'm glad I'm not the only one feeling like this. I struggle getting the workouts in. I feel like I do really good for a week and then start falling short the following week. I tend to slack quite a bit but then get back on track. I do feel a little burned out at times. I really enjoy the group workouts I just wish I lived closer. I really love this group. There is so much support and positive energy. Seeing all of you at Kansas 70.3 supporting either by email or physically being there gave me so much strength it was really amazing. You guys are one of the reasons I haven't left the group and training. I look forward to the group training and all the daily email from the group. "
From Marcela, "I'm so glad someone told me 'there is this group of women training for Redman!, you should contact Liz'. To think that I was attempting this on my own seems very crazy now!!!
I love the group workouts, and I'm all for more of them! I like collective sweating (yes, Steph, even inside my eyes!! that stings, doesn't it? we need headbands! RED ones!!).
I also love the support and the good vibes. It had never ocurred to me, but Robin is right when she says there are no divas in our group. That's really nice!
So, let's keep going upward and onward!!! 86 days left!!!"
The thing about triathlon is that most people (and I would even hazard a guess that no one) excels at all three aspects of this sport. We each have a weak area or two or THREE that is harder than another. This group is no different. Some are best at swimming, some biking, some running. We each have our strengths and are ready to be there for someone else who is deficient.
This is an amazing group of women that I've come to admire and appreciate from the soles of my feet. We have come together as mostly strangers and bonded in ways that is not always common among groups of women. I've received an outpouring of support in my swimming endeavors, as well. Just reading over these comments make my eyes tear up a little.
Like Robbin says, Quitting is just not an option! Slog on!
(And, thank God for wetsuits that will keep me afloat at Redman.)
I am honored to count myself among these incredible Red Ladies!
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tires
My last couple of rides have not been as fast as I think they should have been, so I got to thinking...I wonder if the tire pressure would affect my speed. If I apply the same logic as how gas mileage suffers on my car if my tire pressure is not correct, it stands to reason, that if my bike tires were also a little on the low side, they would not turn as efficiently.
My pump is an old one that I got back in the 90's. It's hard to use and I can't seem to get the tires pumped up past 100 psi. Maybe it's time for a new pump...what's another $50 or so on this sport? LOL
I need to remember to sign up for Redman tomorrow, as it is the last day before the rates go up! Eeek...hope it is not a wasted $225.
My pump is an old one that I got back in the 90's. It's hard to use and I can't seem to get the tires pumped up past 100 psi. Maybe it's time for a new pump...what's another $50 or so on this sport? LOL
I need to remember to sign up for Redman tomorrow, as it is the last day before the rates go up! Eeek...hope it is not a wasted $225.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Progress & Redemption
I've had many days now to reflect on my failure at Tinman. When I look back, I am amazed and somewhat appalled that I didn't complete the swim at that race. Intellectually, the distance was so much shorter than all of my current workouts. Even visually, when I looked over the water, it didn't look daunting.
So, I try to look at it as a learning experience, not that it was the 2nd race I've ever DNF'ed. I went back to Shawnee Mission Park last week and swam with Bea. If was slooooow and steady. I focused on my breathing. And, I was fine.
Thursday, I intended to go to Master's class at Prairie Village pool. With the coming race on Sunday, I thought a pool workout in 50 meter swim lanes would be good practice. Lo and behold, there was a swim meet that night and the pool was closed. Dang! So much for the best laid plans. I then drove down to Leawood pool to just swim in the 50 meter lanes. Can you believe they were doing a swim meet as well? It was too late to go to UMKC, so I was destined to swim at 24-Hour Fitness.
In spite of it all, it was a great 2,000 yard workout. I went down to Joplin and did the Summer Roundup tri, a great beginner's tri with a pool swim. The 500 meters were done before I hardly knew it. The race was great and I even won my age group!
So, that brings me to tonight. Marcela and I went to Kill Creek in Olathe and swam around the 500-yard course they have set up there -- 3 times. Not a single moment of anxiety. Complete control of my breath. I think that my gut has finally caught up with my head in believing that my wetsuit will keep me afloat, which is another huge stroke forward! Now, to start swimming naket (without the wetsuit security blanky, so I can do WIN for KC tri.
So, I try to look at it as a learning experience, not that it was the 2nd race I've ever DNF'ed. I went back to Shawnee Mission Park last week and swam with Bea. If was slooooow and steady. I focused on my breathing. And, I was fine.
Thursday, I intended to go to Master's class at Prairie Village pool. With the coming race on Sunday, I thought a pool workout in 50 meter swim lanes would be good practice. Lo and behold, there was a swim meet that night and the pool was closed. Dang! So much for the best laid plans. I then drove down to Leawood pool to just swim in the 50 meter lanes. Can you believe they were doing a swim meet as well? It was too late to go to UMKC, so I was destined to swim at 24-Hour Fitness.
In spite of it all, it was a great 2,000 yard workout. I went down to Joplin and did the Summer Roundup tri, a great beginner's tri with a pool swim. The 500 meters were done before I hardly knew it. The race was great and I even won my age group!
So, that brings me to tonight. Marcela and I went to Kill Creek in Olathe and swam around the 500-yard course they have set up there -- 3 times. Not a single moment of anxiety. Complete control of my breath. I think that my gut has finally caught up with my head in believing that my wetsuit will keep me afloat, which is another huge stroke forward! Now, to start swimming naket (without the wetsuit security blanky, so I can do WIN for KC tri.
DNF
Well.
My first attempt at a triathlon with a lake swim did not go so well. Topeka Tinman. 400 meter swim in Lake Shawnee. Kaput.
A storm had come through Friday night, but the cold front brought the temps down to a very pleasant level. It also brought the water temperature down to 74 degrees, well below the wetsuit-legal threshold. I looked out over the swim course, and felt that it was doable. No sweat.
When it time for my age group wave to start, I had a few butterflies, but no fear. I felt confident that I would be able to do the swim. I started in the back of pack, walked calmly into the water and started off. Stroke, breathe, stroke, breathe, I can do this, breathe, I can do this, breathe. The gal behind me bumped my legs a few time, but I was still, stroke, breathe, stroke, breathe. I was thinking to myself, hey! I might be the last one out of the water!
But,, as I've found before, in open water, I'm fine until I'm not. I paused as I got almost to the second buoy and my heart rate immediately shot up, along with my breathing, almost to the point of hyperventilating. I stopped and rested on the lifeguard's floaty thing, but still couldn't get my breathing back under control. Ultimately, I just wanted out of the water, and I bailed.
So, disappointing. The conditions were perfect. It was a short swim. Wetsuit legal. All the elements were there for me to succeed. I had felt good that day, ready to race. I got a whole 200 yds. After I had sat on the boat for 3 minutes, I was ready to try again, but at that point, it was too late. I had gotten out of the water.
After much analysis, the Red Lady gals there thought I was starting out too fast. I didn't think I was going that fast, but I do know that I started out in the back and was soon in the middle of the pack. I also had in the back of mind that I wanted to get out of the water as soon as I could, so I'm sure that sped up my stroke.
So, I've been polling some experienced triathletes and my swim coach as to suggestions on how to obtain some level of comfort in the water. Leslie provided a great article from Triathlete magazine and Sara gave me some similar tips. My goal now is to go out and swim very slowly and see if that helps. Kimmie B, was extremely encouraging because swimming is her innter demon, too, but she has been able to overcome and finish several IM distance races.
My first attempt at a triathlon with a lake swim did not go so well. Topeka Tinman. 400 meter swim in Lake Shawnee. Kaput.
A storm had come through Friday night, but the cold front brought the temps down to a very pleasant level. It also brought the water temperature down to 74 degrees, well below the wetsuit-legal threshold. I looked out over the swim course, and felt that it was doable. No sweat.
When it time for my age group wave to start, I had a few butterflies, but no fear. I felt confident that I would be able to do the swim. I started in the back of pack, walked calmly into the water and started off. Stroke, breathe, stroke, breathe, I can do this, breathe, I can do this, breathe. The gal behind me bumped my legs a few time, but I was still, stroke, breathe, stroke, breathe. I was thinking to myself, hey! I might be the last one out of the water!
But,, as I've found before, in open water, I'm fine until I'm not. I paused as I got almost to the second buoy and my heart rate immediately shot up, along with my breathing, almost to the point of hyperventilating. I stopped and rested on the lifeguard's floaty thing, but still couldn't get my breathing back under control. Ultimately, I just wanted out of the water, and I bailed.
So, disappointing. The conditions were perfect. It was a short swim. Wetsuit legal. All the elements were there for me to succeed. I had felt good that day, ready to race. I got a whole 200 yds. After I had sat on the boat for 3 minutes, I was ready to try again, but at that point, it was too late. I had gotten out of the water.
After much analysis, the Red Lady gals there thought I was starting out too fast. I didn't think I was going that fast, but I do know that I started out in the back and was soon in the middle of the pack. I also had in the back of mind that I wanted to get out of the water as soon as I could, so I'm sure that sped up my stroke.
So, I've been polling some experienced triathletes and my swim coach as to suggestions on how to obtain some level of comfort in the water. Leslie provided a great article from Triathlete magazine and Sara gave me some similar tips. My goal now is to go out and swim very slowly and see if that helps. Kimmie B, was extremely encouraging because swimming is her innter demon, too, but she has been able to overcome and finish several IM distance races.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Speedsuits
I thought I found the answer to my "how will I be able to swim in a lake without a wetsuit" dilemma: the speedsuit/speedskin/swimskin. It is a sleeveless knee-length suit, that reduces drag (like that will matter for me) and provides a little buoyancy (YAY!) and is legal when wetsuits are not.
However, I'm finding a lot of somewhat contradictory and confusing information on various websites. In 2010, the World Triathlon Commission, who owns the Ironman brand and oversees Ironman branded races, banned speedsuits. However, USAT has a long list of suits that are allowed.
I want to try one. Yet one more somewhat pricy thing to buy in the pursuit of this hobby. I know that the best answer is to just get to the point where I am comfortable enough in the water to not "need" a wetsuit. Easier said than done. However, this suit might be just enough to ease my mind for the longer swims. It might help me ease into a comfort level in the water, the way Nicorette steps people off smoking.
However, I'm finding a lot of somewhat contradictory and confusing information on various websites. In 2010, the World Triathlon Commission, who owns the Ironman brand and oversees Ironman branded races, banned speedsuits. However, USAT has a long list of suits that are allowed.
I want to try one. Yet one more somewhat pricy thing to buy in the pursuit of this hobby. I know that the best answer is to just get to the point where I am comfortable enough in the water to not "need" a wetsuit. Easier said than done. However, this suit might be just enough to ease my mind for the longer swims. It might help me ease into a comfort level in the water, the way Nicorette steps people off smoking.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Topeka Tinman coming
Topeka Tinman is coming up this Saturday. Because I was out of town the weekend of the Kansas City Triathlon, this will be my inaugural triathlon. I had another moment at the swim on Tuesday, which shook up my confidence again. It wasn't really a big deal, but I didn't warm up and ended up in the middle of the buoys, out of breath again. Thursday, I went back out to the lake with some trepidation. After a good talk with myself, I swathed myself in my wetsuit despite the 90+ degree weather and headed back out to the water.
This time, I took my time and was soon swimming laps with the rest, feeling so much more comfortable that I again felt a bit of enjoyment. Two strokes forward, one stroke back. Thursday was a two strokes forward night. I feel more confident and perhaps I can do Topeka. I looked at the website today and it listed the short course as only 400 meters instead of 500 as it had been earlier. I can do 400 meters!
My only concern is that it may too warm to wear the wetsuit. I'm not sure what I will do if that's the case. If the water temp is under 80 degrees, I can still use the suit, but not be eligible for any age group awards. I may try swimming this week without the suit...but, I may also just forfeit the age group awards, too. I guess I'll just have to wait and see how the open water swims go this week.
Kansas 70.3 was held today. My friend, Karen and I volunteered. The downside was that we were there at 4:00 a.m. this morning. The upside was that we held the markers. Body marking. Woo hoo! :)
My friend and training buddy, Bea, competed today and did so well! again, I'm so thrilled for her and a little jealous, too. But, I know how anxious she was in the days up to the race, so her success has given me another boost that maybe, just maybe, I'll accomplish it this year, too.
The gals and I drove over to Kill Creek Park and rode the Olathe Women's Triathlon course. I had heard that it was really hilly, but it turned out to be a nice course. It's very pretty and pastoral out there, even though it was halfway to Lawrence. The route was only 10 miles, so by the time the fourth loop rolled around, I was getting a little tired of it.
Now, to bed. Need to get up early tomorrow to...swim, of course!
This time, I took my time and was soon swimming laps with the rest, feeling so much more comfortable that I again felt a bit of enjoyment. Two strokes forward, one stroke back. Thursday was a two strokes forward night. I feel more confident and perhaps I can do Topeka. I looked at the website today and it listed the short course as only 400 meters instead of 500 as it had been earlier. I can do 400 meters!
My only concern is that it may too warm to wear the wetsuit. I'm not sure what I will do if that's the case. If the water temp is under 80 degrees, I can still use the suit, but not be eligible for any age group awards. I may try swimming this week without the suit...but, I may also just forfeit the age group awards, too. I guess I'll just have to wait and see how the open water swims go this week.
Kansas 70.3 was held today. My friend, Karen and I volunteered. The downside was that we were there at 4:00 a.m. this morning. The upside was that we held the markers. Body marking. Woo hoo! :)
My friend and training buddy, Bea, competed today and did so well! again, I'm so thrilled for her and a little jealous, too. But, I know how anxious she was in the days up to the race, so her success has given me another boost that maybe, just maybe, I'll accomplish it this year, too.
The gals and I drove over to Kill Creek Park and rode the Olathe Women's Triathlon course. I had heard that it was really hilly, but it turned out to be a nice course. It's very pretty and pastoral out there, even though it was halfway to Lawrence. The route was only 10 miles, so by the time the fourth loop rolled around, I was getting a little tired of it.
Now, to bed. Need to get up early tomorrow to...swim, of course!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Normal?
Since I've been involved with EMG and the Red Ladies, I've had to redefine "normal." It isn't normal to jump in a lake in wind chills of 39. It isn't normal to say, "Oh, the water doesn't feel too bad! At 67 degrees, it's much warmer than the air."
It isn't normal to spend anywhere from 8-12 hours a week doing training activities.
It isn't normal to ride a bike for two hours, then jump into your running shoes for a short "brick." Then, do an hour and a half run the next day.
The list goes on.
I keep telling myself that there are worse ways to spend my time and money. But, I can't help but wonder if there are even better ways than this. This is such a self-absorbed hobby. All my spare time goes to training. There's no philantropic activities, barely time to see my friends outside of my training circle. It fills up my time so completely, that days, weeks, months just fly by without my taking notice. Do I really want to pass through my life so quickly without a moment to stop and ponder; stop and appreciate the moment? Or, is it constantly trying to cheat the day by squeezing yet one more activity into it.
This YouTube encapsulates it perfectly.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B03dFMG8nR4
It isn't normal to spend anywhere from 8-12 hours a week doing training activities.
It isn't normal to ride a bike for two hours, then jump into your running shoes for a short "brick." Then, do an hour and a half run the next day.
The list goes on.
I keep telling myself that there are worse ways to spend my time and money. But, I can't help but wonder if there are even better ways than this. This is such a self-absorbed hobby. All my spare time goes to training. There's no philantropic activities, barely time to see my friends outside of my training circle. It fills up my time so completely, that days, weeks, months just fly by without my taking notice. Do I really want to pass through my life so quickly without a moment to stop and ponder; stop and appreciate the moment? Or, is it constantly trying to cheat the day by squeezing yet one more activity into it.
This YouTube encapsulates it perfectly.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B03dFMG8nR4
Progress?
I'm relieved to report that my second foray into open water swimming met with much better success. It was a beautiful evening at Shawnee Mission Park, the first night the swimming beach was open to us. In spite of all the rain we'd had up to that evening, the last couple of days prior had warmed the water up considerably. Regardless, I was still clad in my wetsuit. No way was I going to give up my security blanket yet.
The loop around the three buoys is about 250 yards, but it looked more like two miles. I tentatively swam the 50 yards to the first buoy and back to shallow water. I swam the length of the swimming area and back. Then repeated that sequence. After a few times, I took the plunge so to speak and made my first loop around the buoys.
Spotting (the process of getting your bearing and ensuring you are headed in the right direction) was harder than I expected. The buoys were not very big and the evening glare on the water rendered them almost invisible. Of course, being one of the most directionally challenged people on earth, I was going wide of the mark. But, I corrected and put my head down and advanced, stroke by stroke. Before I knew it, I had made it to the first one. Turning was a little tricky and seemed to take more energy than it should, but I awkwardly made the turn and headed to the next one. Suddenly, I had completed the lap. I did a happy dance in my mind and swam to shallow water once again. I finally did this two more times, and even felt a moment of pleasure in the water. Hey, maybe I can do this!
It was coincidental that I had gone to a doctor's appointment just prior to the swim and read an article about mantras. The author was getting ready to do a rowing event that she was nervous about, so she starting chanting to herself "Go chappy, chappy go." She found that it relaxed her and freed her mind of negative thoughts. Further research revealed that repeating a phrase such as that actually focuses one's thoughts, releasing fears and stimulating pleasure centers in the brain. So, I also tried incorporating that into my evenings, stating "I can do this" over and over. I wondered if it helped more when you could actually say the words aloud, but I had to settle for the mental version. The jury is still out on whether it helped or not.
I still don't feel super confident and can't imagine not having the wetsuit, but I'd accomplished more than I ever had before. The weather has turned beastly hot and now I fear that I will not be able to use my it at Topeka Tinman, my first tri of the season. Yikes. Luckily, it is a short swim. So, my plan is to swim again on Tuesday with the wetsuit, and depending on my progress, possibly go wetsuitless on Thursday. We shall see.
Last Saturday was an EMG group ride, where I did 42 miles--now my second longest ride ever. It's hard to comprehend that a mere 8 days ago, the weather was a little chilly and we were debating wearing a jacket or long pants on the ride. Yesterday, was Hospital Hill, where it was 80 degrees at 7:00 a.m. when the race started. It was a brutal, humid day. I thought several times, I wasn't going to make it, and it took every ounce of willpower I possessed to not turn at the 10K turnaround, but I persevered. The experience of 56 marathons saw me through this one, and I even finished in 2:01...my first Hospital Hill that wasn't under two hours. Considering the day, I was satisfied with it.
Had another hot workout today--35 miles around Longview Lake plus a 20-minute run. Ugh!
I still wonder at times why I'm doing this. I often wake up early in the mornings worrying about whether or not I'll be able to do the swim, dreading the thought of running a half marathon after riding 3+ hours. The training is starting to feel like drudgery. A 9-hour week of workouts is followed by a 10-hour week, Is it worth all the time and money? I suppose, in for a penny, in for a pound. While I have been known to quit things, this is one thing I don't feel like I can quit. Whether or not I continue after this year, seems doubtful right now.
But, that's something to worry about another day. I've got plenty of other things to worry about now.
The loop around the three buoys is about 250 yards, but it looked more like two miles. I tentatively swam the 50 yards to the first buoy and back to shallow water. I swam the length of the swimming area and back. Then repeated that sequence. After a few times, I took the plunge so to speak and made my first loop around the buoys.
Spotting (the process of getting your bearing and ensuring you are headed in the right direction) was harder than I expected. The buoys were not very big and the evening glare on the water rendered them almost invisible. Of course, being one of the most directionally challenged people on earth, I was going wide of the mark. But, I corrected and put my head down and advanced, stroke by stroke. Before I knew it, I had made it to the first one. Turning was a little tricky and seemed to take more energy than it should, but I awkwardly made the turn and headed to the next one. Suddenly, I had completed the lap. I did a happy dance in my mind and swam to shallow water once again. I finally did this two more times, and even felt a moment of pleasure in the water. Hey, maybe I can do this!
It was coincidental that I had gone to a doctor's appointment just prior to the swim and read an article about mantras. The author was getting ready to do a rowing event that she was nervous about, so she starting chanting to herself "Go chappy, chappy go." She found that it relaxed her and freed her mind of negative thoughts. Further research revealed that repeating a phrase such as that actually focuses one's thoughts, releasing fears and stimulating pleasure centers in the brain. So, I also tried incorporating that into my evenings, stating "I can do this" over and over. I wondered if it helped more when you could actually say the words aloud, but I had to settle for the mental version. The jury is still out on whether it helped or not.
I still don't feel super confident and can't imagine not having the wetsuit, but I'd accomplished more than I ever had before. The weather has turned beastly hot and now I fear that I will not be able to use my it at Topeka Tinman, my first tri of the season. Yikes. Luckily, it is a short swim. So, my plan is to swim again on Tuesday with the wetsuit, and depending on my progress, possibly go wetsuitless on Thursday. We shall see.
Last Saturday was an EMG group ride, where I did 42 miles--now my second longest ride ever. It's hard to comprehend that a mere 8 days ago, the weather was a little chilly and we were debating wearing a jacket or long pants on the ride. Yesterday, was Hospital Hill, where it was 80 degrees at 7:00 a.m. when the race started. It was a brutal, humid day. I thought several times, I wasn't going to make it, and it took every ounce of willpower I possessed to not turn at the 10K turnaround, but I persevered. The experience of 56 marathons saw me through this one, and I even finished in 2:01...my first Hospital Hill that wasn't under two hours. Considering the day, I was satisfied with it.
Had another hot workout today--35 miles around Longview Lake plus a 20-minute run. Ugh!
I still wonder at times why I'm doing this. I often wake up early in the mornings worrying about whether or not I'll be able to do the swim, dreading the thought of running a half marathon after riding 3+ hours. The training is starting to feel like drudgery. A 9-hour week of workouts is followed by a 10-hour week, Is it worth all the time and money? I suppose, in for a penny, in for a pound. While I have been known to quit things, this is one thing I don't feel like I can quit. Whether or not I continue after this year, seems doubtful right now.
But, that's something to worry about another day. I've got plenty of other things to worry about now.
Monday, May 30, 2011
May 30
Eek! The end of May fast approaches. I had a brief reprieve from training last weekend when I went to NYC for a few days. I also very conveniently missed the KC Triathlon. I didn't intend to schedule the trip the same weekend, but it turns out it was just as well, since I would not have mentally been ready for the swim. Now, Topeka Tinman looms on the horizon like a huge monster... And, the what ifs are already starting up. What if I'm still not ready for the swim? What if I think I can manage the swim with my wetsuit, but the event isn't wetsuit legal? Having to do the swim without my neoprene security blanket is going to be like resetting the clock all over again. Okay, okay...one hurdle at a time.
In my guilt over not participating at the KC Tri, I did enter a 5K in New York. It was the NYPD Memorial 5K which honors the fallen heros among New York's Finest. It was run on the West Side Highway very close to Ground Zero. Perfect weather on a perfect, flat course. I ran it hard, but not all out (as I am wont to do) and because it was a fast course, I still ran a 24:44, a few seconds faster than the 5K I did over Easter weekend. I thought I might place in my age group, as I had checked out the results from the previous year and saw that the 3rd place did a 26 minute race. However, I ended up 7th...the first place finisher in my age group was a 46-year-old who did an 18:40. Seriously?!?
I resumed my workouts when I got back, sort of. My job has gotten really busy and so squeezing in doubles have not been working. So, the stress of my job as well of the stress of missing workouts was starting to get to me. However, I did get to test out my new bike fit on a couple of rides--a 25-mile ride at the downtown airport and a 42-mile EMG group ride. I was very happy that my back did not bother me on either ride and my feet didn't go numb! So, it looks like the fit is going to be well worth the money.
The 42-miler is now my second longest ride, ever. My average speed wasn't that great, but I did get tired the last 5 or so miles.
Today I did my long run that I should have done yesterday by running to Loose Park, doing the Amy Thompson Run to Daylight 8K and then running home. My legs felt like lead the entire run to the park and two miles into the race. They finally loosened up a little after that. It's a little frustrating that I never feel rested or fresh for any of the races I've done this year, but I suppose we aren't training to specifically for road races. Hospital Hill is coming up Saturday and I am going to take a couple of rest days so that my legs aren't completely trashed. That could be a long and arduous day.
Tomorrow, I get back in the lake. Fingers crossed on how that goes...
In my guilt over not participating at the KC Tri, I did enter a 5K in New York. It was the NYPD Memorial 5K which honors the fallen heros among New York's Finest. It was run on the West Side Highway very close to Ground Zero. Perfect weather on a perfect, flat course. I ran it hard, but not all out (as I am wont to do) and because it was a fast course, I still ran a 24:44, a few seconds faster than the 5K I did over Easter weekend. I thought I might place in my age group, as I had checked out the results from the previous year and saw that the 3rd place did a 26 minute race. However, I ended up 7th...the first place finisher in my age group was a 46-year-old who did an 18:40. Seriously?!?
I resumed my workouts when I got back, sort of. My job has gotten really busy and so squeezing in doubles have not been working. So, the stress of my job as well of the stress of missing workouts was starting to get to me. However, I did get to test out my new bike fit on a couple of rides--a 25-mile ride at the downtown airport and a 42-mile EMG group ride. I was very happy that my back did not bother me on either ride and my feet didn't go numb! So, it looks like the fit is going to be well worth the money.
The 42-miler is now my second longest ride, ever. My average speed wasn't that great, but I did get tired the last 5 or so miles.
Today I did my long run that I should have done yesterday by running to Loose Park, doing the Amy Thompson Run to Daylight 8K and then running home. My legs felt like lead the entire run to the park and two miles into the race. They finally loosened up a little after that. It's a little frustrating that I never feel rested or fresh for any of the races I've done this year, but I suppose we aren't training to specifically for road races. Hospital Hill is coming up Saturday and I am going to take a couple of rest days so that my legs aren't completely trashed. That could be a long and arduous day.
Tomorrow, I get back in the lake. Fingers crossed on how that goes...
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Doubts
In spite of knowing better, I continue to worry about whether I will be able to do the swim--whether it be 1.2 miles in a half Ironman or 500 meters in a sprint. Intellectually, I know that I just need to take baby steps; emotionally, the idea of swimming in a lake makes my stomach hurt.
I mentioned to the club coaches that I had my doubts about my ability to overcome the fear. Of the four I sent it to, only one commented and his response was "Nothing's impossible Tami. My favorite quote is whether you think you can or you can't, you're right. I seriously believe this is true and strive to live it...for me it is the catalyst to turn my dreams into goals and my goals into reality. All you need is a little hope and you can overcome anything, No matter how impossible something may seem."
Maybe it's just because I'm getting crochety in my advanced years, but I felt this response to be a little glib. On the one hand, I agree wholeheartedly that choosing to believe it isn't possible is the same as making it true. However, on the other, it's just rhetoric. I need something a little more actionable than "hope" to get beyond the irrational stuff speaking in my ear. It's like telling someone you can run a marathon in four months if only you believe you can. Yes, believing is key. But, there are also a few other steps required to get one from the start line to the finish.
My issues with swimming run deep. As a child, I had a couple of close calls in the water (I'm sure I wasn't anywhere close to really drowning, but I can still remember the terror I felt at the time, even forty years later). My oldest brother drowned in a lake on my 23rd birthday, and he knew how to swim!
I honestly don't consciously associate those things when I swim, but I'm sure they are rattling around in the recesses of my mind. This became apparent when one of my training buddies asked me WHAT was I really afraid of? The simple answer is ... drowning. I don't have enough confidence that I am a good enough swimmer that I could save myself. And, that's the place I need to get. I just don't know how.
These people are my coaches, who have self-professed to have all the initials behind their names that say they know what they are talking about when it come to training for a triathlon. I just "hope" they give me more tools to use than just "hope."
I mentioned to the club coaches that I had my doubts about my ability to overcome the fear. Of the four I sent it to, only one commented and his response was "Nothing's impossible Tami. My favorite quote is whether you think you can or you can't, you're right. I seriously believe this is true and strive to live it...for me it is the catalyst to turn my dreams into goals and my goals into reality. All you need is a little hope and you can overcome anything, No matter how impossible something may seem."
Maybe it's just because I'm getting crochety in my advanced years, but I felt this response to be a little glib. On the one hand, I agree wholeheartedly that choosing to believe it isn't possible is the same as making it true. However, on the other, it's just rhetoric. I need something a little more actionable than "hope" to get beyond the irrational stuff speaking in my ear. It's like telling someone you can run a marathon in four months if only you believe you can. Yes, believing is key. But, there are also a few other steps required to get one from the start line to the finish.
My issues with swimming run deep. As a child, I had a couple of close calls in the water (I'm sure I wasn't anywhere close to really drowning, but I can still remember the terror I felt at the time, even forty years later). My oldest brother drowned in a lake on my 23rd birthday, and he knew how to swim!
I honestly don't consciously associate those things when I swim, but I'm sure they are rattling around in the recesses of my mind. This became apparent when one of my training buddies asked me WHAT was I really afraid of? The simple answer is ... drowning. I don't have enough confidence that I am a good enough swimmer that I could save myself. And, that's the place I need to get. I just don't know how.
These people are my coaches, who have self-professed to have all the initials behind their names that say they know what they are talking about when it come to training for a triathlon. I just "hope" they give me more tools to use than just "hope."
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Halfway to the Half Ironman
Training has been ongoing officially since February 1st. It's been an interesting journey so far. My mental state has been on a roller coaster, taking my confidence along for the ride. However, my ups and downs have been mostly restricted to my performance in relation to the everyone else in my group (am I the slowest swimmer, biker, runner?), like that even matters. But, as Paula Porizova said in her blog "No one ages as badly as a beautiful woman" (or something to that effect) I'm finding that the desertion of all my running speed has given my ego quite a beating. Running was the only part of triathlon that I had any competency and I don't even have my running chops anymore. Wah.
I have been training more for this than for anything else I've ever attempted. Swimming, running, biking. 8, 9, 10-hours a week. One would think that I would have wasted down to nothing with that much exercise, but to quote Bea, my friend and fellow Red Lady, I'm wondering when my six-pack abs are going to start to show. Maybe they are in there somewhere, under that stubborn layer of fat.
This weekend I attended EMG's Kansas 70.3 training camp and the magnitude of what I have signed up for has started to hit me. We did an open water swim yesterday morning (the air temperature was 39 and the water temp, 67), and I freaked out again.
Even though I have done a little bit of open water swimming, the opacity of the water threw me off, plus the cold water kept me from being able to get any rhythm. I couldn't catch my breath. The more I tried to relax, the worse my gasping became. Lucky for me, a fellow camper assisted me back to shallower water. I spent the rest of the time practicing in the designated swimming area, but my confidence was blown. Liz, the Red Ladies coach, asked me if I had had a panic attack. I wouldn't have called it that, as I didn't really feel afraid when it all started happening. However, the more I gasped, the more tired I got. If Steve hadn't helped me, I would have gotten scared.
Overcoming a lifetime of being afraid of deep water seems impossible right now. Just thinking about what happened yesterday is making my chest tight and causing me to gasp a bit. I know a lot of people in the club have had this issue and have gotten past it to do a full IM distance, so it can be done. I'm just not sure what I need to do to make it happen. For now, I just have to keep plugging along to plan, but I'm still worried.
The second sanity check came later that day when we did our bike segment. I was going to ride about 40 miles. But, once we got started, I decided to ride with Bea as she did the whole course. The furthest I had ever ridden before was about 35-40 miles. The Kansas 70.3 course was nice. Challenging with some good hills, but not as gross as riding around Shawnee Mission Park. It was really windy, which made the ride more difficult that it might have been, But, it was long, and it seemed that we couldn't get out of the wind, no matter which way we turned. We finished the ride, but the idea of running 13.1 miles off the bike almost made me cry!
So, between the unsuccessful swim attempt and the misery I experienced toward the end of the my ride were a harsh reckoning of exactly what I signed up for.
Four months to Redman. It doesn't seem long enough.
I have been training more for this than for anything else I've ever attempted. Swimming, running, biking. 8, 9, 10-hours a week. One would think that I would have wasted down to nothing with that much exercise, but to quote Bea, my friend and fellow Red Lady, I'm wondering when my six-pack abs are going to start to show. Maybe they are in there somewhere, under that stubborn layer of fat.
This weekend I attended EMG's Kansas 70.3 training camp and the magnitude of what I have signed up for has started to hit me. We did an open water swim yesterday morning (the air temperature was 39 and the water temp, 67), and I freaked out again.
Even though I have done a little bit of open water swimming, the opacity of the water threw me off, plus the cold water kept me from being able to get any rhythm. I couldn't catch my breath. The more I tried to relax, the worse my gasping became. Lucky for me, a fellow camper assisted me back to shallower water. I spent the rest of the time practicing in the designated swimming area, but my confidence was blown. Liz, the Red Ladies coach, asked me if I had had a panic attack. I wouldn't have called it that, as I didn't really feel afraid when it all started happening. However, the more I gasped, the more tired I got. If Steve hadn't helped me, I would have gotten scared.
Overcoming a lifetime of being afraid of deep water seems impossible right now. Just thinking about what happened yesterday is making my chest tight and causing me to gasp a bit. I know a lot of people in the club have had this issue and have gotten past it to do a full IM distance, so it can be done. I'm just not sure what I need to do to make it happen. For now, I just have to keep plugging along to plan, but I'm still worried.
The second sanity check came later that day when we did our bike segment. I was going to ride about 40 miles. But, once we got started, I decided to ride with Bea as she did the whole course. The furthest I had ever ridden before was about 35-40 miles. The Kansas 70.3 course was nice. Challenging with some good hills, but not as gross as riding around Shawnee Mission Park. It was really windy, which made the ride more difficult that it might have been, But, it was long, and it seemed that we couldn't get out of the wind, no matter which way we turned. We finished the ride, but the idea of running 13.1 miles off the bike almost made me cry!
So, between the unsuccessful swim attempt and the misery I experienced toward the end of the my ride were a harsh reckoning of exactly what I signed up for.
Four months to Redman. It doesn't seem long enough.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
What Doesn't Kill You Only Makes You Stronger...
I hope this to be true! I am now three weeks into training. On the down side, I've missed Base Camp twice (sickness and snowstorm), but on the upside, I've stopped working Tuesday nights at the spa and went to BigHurt spin class for the first time last night. The name is very accurate for that class.
I think my swimming is improving. While I don't see leaps and bounds of increase in speed, I do feel that my technique is improving as well as my endurance. Unfortunately, I don't feel that the biking is getting any better at all. :(
Patience, I know. And, lots of hard work.
Tonight, I am looking forward to another lactate threshold test on the bike. Not.
I'm exhausted just thinking about it.
I think my swimming is improving. While I don't see leaps and bounds of increase in speed, I do feel that my technique is improving as well as my endurance. Unfortunately, I don't feel that the biking is getting any better at all. :(
Patience, I know. And, lots of hard work.
Tonight, I am looking forward to another lactate threshold test on the bike. Not.
I'm exhausted just thinking about it.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
January 2011
I've toyed around with doing triathlons for several years. I've taken a couple of triathlon clinics and even engaged a trainer last summer, thinking that investment would get me boosted over the hump. However, my fear of open water swimming has not been overcome. I've continued to do road and trail races and a duathlon here and there. I even did a small tri in Carthage that had a pool swim.
So, this year I am going to stop playing around with the "tri" thing, stop "tri-ing" and commit to the preparation that is required. 2011 is the year. I will be 50 in September and I've set my sights on the Red Man Half Ironman in Oklahoma City the middle of September. What better way to meet my milestone birthday than to set a stretch goal such as this one?
Besides the actual accomplishment of completing the race, I want to get back into shape and drop these nagging 15-20 lbs that I put back on since 2007.
I will be training with a group through EMG, a multisport fitness company and I've found a couple of training partners that face the same swimming issue that I do. We have been really good at motivating each other. I have a lot of optimism that I I will actually be successful this year.
Beginning weight: 141.5
Let the games begin!
So, this year I am going to stop playing around with the "tri" thing, stop "tri-ing" and commit to the preparation that is required. 2011 is the year. I will be 50 in September and I've set my sights on the Red Man Half Ironman in Oklahoma City the middle of September. What better way to meet my milestone birthday than to set a stretch goal such as this one?
Besides the actual accomplishment of completing the race, I want to get back into shape and drop these nagging 15-20 lbs that I put back on since 2007.
I will be training with a group through EMG, a multisport fitness company and I've found a couple of training partners that face the same swimming issue that I do. We have been really good at motivating each other. I have a lot of optimism that I I will actually be successful this year.
Beginning weight: 141.5
Let the games begin!
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