Going The Distance

New Year- New Blog- New Look

2011-02-01T13:04:00.002-07:00

Come follow my adventures at my new blog!
All kinds of fun things to come!!!!

http://www.godoreen.com

NEW BLOG

2010-03-04T09:26:00.002-07:00

New BLOG! Please go to www.godoreen.com to follow my adventures!

I AM AN IRONMAN!

2009-12-02T14:37:00.000-07:00

Headin Home

2009-11-11T13:54:00.000-07:00

Another post.....

Have You EVER???????

2009-11-05T16:47:00.001-07:00

WOW- & Going For Blood

2009-09-12T23:23:00.002-06:00

http://www.godoreen.com/wow-going-for-blood/

Why Tri

2009-08-10T19:00:00.000-06:00

click this link for my latest post at my new site....
http://www.godoreen.com/why-tri/

Putting Me To The Test

2009-07-05T09:15:00.001-06:00

Click here to follow my latest post

NEW WEBSITE-BLOG

2009-04-05T14:45:00.002-06:00

HEY EVERYBODY-

I HAVE AN ACTUAL WEBSITE! WITH A BLOG!

PLEASE VISIT

WWW.GODOREEN.COM

FOR ALL MY BLOGGING....

PLUS---IT'S USER FRIENDLY AND EVERYONE should be able to leave a comment now....please!

So please update your blog roll and keep on following the adventures!

Missing The Big Swim

2009-03-29T17:47:00.003-06:00

So this morning I was suppose to be up at 4 am and off to a 7K swim workout.

Unfortunately a very sore throat woke me up at around 2:30 this morning. I got up took some stuff and never feel back to sleep. By 4am I did not feel good at all....At that point I had to make the decision to go to the workout or stay in bed. Since I had only slept about 4 hours and felt pretty bad-I decided to stay in bed...I finally feel back to sleep and stayed that way until 10:00! I never sleep that long!!!!! Never!

Now you may be wondering why am I writing about this. The fact is that I feel very guilty for missing this key workout! I wanted really badly to swim the 7K today and have been looking forward to this the whole month! I love these long swims. There is something so relaxing about swimming for a hours at a time.

A few weeks ago when I took a week off from training I had no desire to workout...today I wanted to so badly but pretty much new if I did swim- I would have caught this cold that is knocking at my throat. I feel like it was a slacker week of training as two other workouts where cut short due to weather....speaking of weather....I think the weather is the culprit for my throats state.

This week we went from 78 degrees on Sunday to a blizzard on Thursday...So far this winter I have avoided EVERY crud that has come through the office and infected everyone. I'm just hoping that by not swimming today I will avoid this thing....And I should not worry about missing one key swim workout---but for today I can't help it. I'll just see what tomorrow brings and if I kick this thing......more later....

My First Love

2009-03-25T04:39:00.007-06:00

Saturday I was able to return to my first love....Ok, so it's not what you're thinking....

Saturday- I was able to ROCK CLIMB!!!! Can you believe it! I was able to fit in an early morning climb in Eldorado Canyon.

You see, I'm new at this triathlon stuff......and my first true love is Rock Climbing. I spent 15 years living to Climb and Climbing to live. Pretty much any place I lived or job I took revolved around rock climbing. I ate, drank, slept, rock climbing! That's all I did- 4-5 days a week. I LOVED rock climbing!

So, this past Saturday, when I hiked up to the base of the crag; put on my harness; uncoiled the rope; and looked up at the rock- I was right at home. I felt as if an ancient piece of me had returned.

Sitting high above the stream and road I felt at home. Being close to the rock and getting ready to climb felt so familiar and brought such a sense of calm to me. I forgot how much I loved rock climbing. Not only for the actual act of climbing, but for all that goes with it. The views, the tranqulity, the beauty, the ritual of uncoiling the rope, putting on your harness and shoes, chalking up....it just feels right!

Now, I'm not saying I wasn't a bit rusty after over 2 years away from climbing....but once I got on the rock, my body just knew what to do....it just moved as it had all those millions of times before.

I took a bit of time to get up the 5.7 we were climbing- but I did it....and when I rappeled to the ground I realized I would have to make sure I climbed again soon! I love this too much to wait another two years to do....and just so you all know I didn't slack on my Ironman training.....I then went for a 8 mile run after my early morning climb! (and kicked butt on the run).

Training After A Time Out

2009-03-21T08:52:00.002-06:00

Oh my goodness, what a difference a week off training can make! I soooooo, I mean soooooo, needed a week off!

Starting with last Saturdays workout I have had a strong week of training! I have felt motivated and ready for each training session.

This week found me having back-to-back training sessions-it went like this: Tues AM Swim nonstop 45 mins-work all day-Track at night; Wed AM Masters Swimming-work all day w/weight training during lunch-Computrainer Bike class at night; Thurs AM Swim masters-work all day- Run 8 miles at Tempo.... Believe it or not- it was fun to do this!
Pretty much my life for 3 days was strickly-train-work-train-sleep-oh yea and eat in there somewhere!

It was a wonderful week of training with close to 12 hours of training this week.....how about that 17 hour training day- does work count????? :)

Taking a Time Out

2009-03-11T17:27:00.002-06:00

Last Sunday I was scheduled to do my first bike ride in the mountains of the season. Not a super challenging ride, but a good one to start off with.....

I woke up that morning and the thing I really wanted to do was to crawl back in bed. But I got my stuff together and met my friend for the ride.....Still wanting to go back home and crawl into bed.

I thought how sometimes I feel this way but once I get going I start to come around and get moving just fine....Well this Sunday that was not the case.

I started off the easy- I mean easy "climb" up Deer Creek to the turnoff for High Grade. A few miles into the ride I was in my "granny gear", I'm talkin "granny gear" with a triple front ring....and I was still struggling with that! I had absolutely NOTHING in me. When I got to High Grade I decided I should cut my losses and turn around and call it a day......Which is exactly what I did.

I got home and crawled into bed for a 1 hour nap....and woke up feeling a bit under the weather.
I talked to Coach Andrea and we decided I should take Monday off and play it day by day.

Well, with the way I felt Monday I made the executive decision to take 3 full days off....and to NOT feel guilty about it. I have slept in, not trained, eaten well, slept extra hours, enjoyed doing nothing and did I mention, slept?

Today is Wednsday, and I also took today off work. I slept 12 hours straight! It was wonderful to not have to wake up at any particular time.....I have relaxed and the most I did today was write this blog. Now that's what I call a rest day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am somewhat feeling like I'm ready to get back to training, but I'm going to listen to my body. I have been going at it hard for over a year now, and have never taken 3 days off in a row.....and I may take another day off if that's what my body is telling me tomorrow.

Learning to listen to your body is part of training. We work on our bodies, our nutrition and we have to work on our recovery too. My body spoke loud and clear on Sunday and I am glad I listened. I have a long season a head....all the way through November. 3 or more days off right now may be just what I need...actually- I know it is.

So here's to taking a time out and being ok with that decision :)

Eating To Train

2009-03-07T11:29:00.005-07:00

The end of February found me "celebrating" a little too much. I just had a birthday and there where a few parties at work during lunch hour....hence a lot of sweets and food....
So what does this have to do with eating to train???

Looking back on the last two weeks for Feb. I see that I was Training To Eat. What that means is I was eating everything and anything...because I deserved it for training "so" hard. I was eating muffins, cakes, cookies, mochas, chips....you name it. All those foods that I normally stay far away from (ok-maybe not tortilla chips as much-they're my fav!). I had this mentality that I could eat whatever I wanted because I was burning so many calories. Especially following my second 25 milers- as I knew my training workload dropped a bit.....

Well, by the end of those two weeks I found myself 4 pounds heavier and going into my Saturday Brick Workout sluggish as all heck. That was the morning of 27 degree bike ride and run.

I was DRAGGING beyond anything I could have imagined! I was riding slowly- but it felt HARD! My heart rate was way up and my perceived effort was high even though I was barely moving 14 MPH..... As I watched the group pull far ahead of me- I reflected on what was going on with me that day...

What became clear to me as I struggled through the ride- was that I had been Training To Eat rather than EATING TO TRAIN!

I could absolutely tell the difference between when I eat healthy so I can fuel my next workout- and when I just eat whatever because I have trained so hard! It's BS to think I can eat whatever- I can't! I'm an athlete and whatever I put into my mouth will affect my next workout or worse yet- workouts!

After that lovely brick workout I got back on the "wagon". I spent some time thinking about the difference between Training to Eat and Eating to Train. It's been a week now- I already feel slimmer; my tummy's not bloated; my energy is better; my training is better; I just feel better overall!

Eating To Train needs to be my lifestyle for the next year. I can't indulge in sweets and over the top foods- I have a goal- and to take my eye off that goal, for even a full day- really affects how I will be able to train!

Not only do I have to complete all the workouts my coach has for me- but I HAVE to EAT TO TRAIN. I know I use the words "have to", but this is really a choice- I choose to train and eat properly....because I love it! And because the only way I will get to the start of IRONMAN is if I am consistent over the next 8 months! Caz- I'm in it for the long haul baby!

Any One UP for a Swim....

2009-03-02T13:17:00.003-07:00

How about a 5:00 am swim on a Sunday morning....the day of rest- Yeah right! Not if you are a Practical Coaching athlete!

Yeap that's right. There where a few of us who are crazy enough to get up before the sunrise on a Sunday and get to the pool for some swimming. Did I say SOME swimming? Oh, wait a minute- I meant about 6K-7K worth of swimming!!!!!!!!!!!

This morning there was no socializing involved- it was straight to the business at hand of swimming 6000-7000 meters before 8:00 am when the pool opened to the public. I was given the task of swimming 6000 meters today (fortunately, although I think I will have a 7000 meter swim at the end of the month).

I had no idea how long it would take me to swim that far. My lane mate for this endeavor was Rob (You Rock Rob!!!!!) and we had fun (?) spending a few hours together swimming. Thank goodness for Rob- he knows how to count correctly.

Have you ever tried keeping track of 60 laps in an Olympic distance pool? It's hard! You have to remember what lap you are on so when you finish a lap you know what the next one is. For me- this is a challenge....I start thinking about stuff as I'm swimming and forget what number I'm on....One thing that kinda helps me is I alternate the side I breath on....left side is for odd numbers, right side for even. It's good in theory and seems to work good on the shorter swims....Again- Thank you Rob for keeping me honest! :)

I must say, I enjoyed the swim...I can't believe how fast over 2 hours passed! It did not feel like I was swimming for that long. The more I do this long distance stuff the more I realize I LOVE IT! Maybe it's the endorphins...or maybe I get a huge dopamine dump as I'm training...I don't know...I just know I love the long workouts! Come to think of it-that's a really good thing since I'll be doing an Ironman in Nov. Can you imagine if I hated these long workouts- I'd be hosed!

Anyway- here's to going to church today at Carmody Rec Center and having my spiritual experience while swimming.....there is nothing better!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

Brain Freezes and Ice Blocks

2009-03-02T11:31:00.005-07:00

So, how about a Saturday 2 hour group bike ride followed by a 10 mile run???? Sounds like a great way to spend a Saturday morning.....EXCEPT we are in Colorado you know!
Which means, that 6 of us actually showed at 8:30 in the morning at Chatfield Resevior with the temps hovering around 27 degrees.

We all piled on as many layers as we could find. I had 5 layers on my upper body and 3 on my lower; headband; windproof gloves (yea right); and shoe covers.......It was shortly before 9 am

when we set off for a "warm up" headed toward the dam.

I have never ridden in temps this cold before, and I can see why it's recommended to wait until the temps are about 32 at least. Talk about a Icee style BRAIN FREEZE! I royally had one. I didn't even know it was possible to get one with out actually drinking an Icee!

We climbed the dam road (no pun intended) and descended the back side....turned around and climbed back up the dam and by then things were feeling warmer! We did a few laps in the park and by the time 2 hours went by the temps were around 40 (I'm guessing.)

Our mission for this ride and run where to train at about 80% and the only thing we were suppose to do fast was our transition from bike to run. That was a little tough given the millions of layers that I had to take off.....but I got the job done, put on my running shoes and started off for a 10 mile run.....

As I started off running it was really weird feeling- or should I say, not feeling. It was as if I was running on huge logs of ICE BLOCKS! My feet had absolutely NO feeling in them. I logically new that they were somewhere under my legs, I just couldn't feel them. It was the weirdest experience!
And when the feeling in my feet did begin to come back, I had to stop because I thought my orthodics where in my shoes wrong....which they were just fine...it's just the feeling was coming back strangely.

The day continued to warm up and my run was uneventful- except that Waterton Canyon was beautiful and I felt as if I had a good run!
All in all- I would not have wanted to miss today and training with the gang. It's nice to know that others will be there when you show up on a cold morning to train. It just might not be as big of a group.....but hey- it's the only way to "go the distance".
(picture from Practical Coaching)

The Second 25 Miler

2009-02-23T05:43:00.004-07:00

So I finished my second 25 miler within a 7 day span. Started off again as a cold clear day with temps in the 20's. You have to love the fact that we get to train year round in Colorado....it can just start off a bit on the cold side sometimes.

The run went stellar! I started at the Goodson Rec Center again and ran 5 out and back for the first 10 miles. When I reached my car at Mile 10 there was Kristen waiting to run the rest or the 15 miles with me. I must say that it is so nice to have someone out there running with you when you have that many miles to cover.

Kristen started out faster than I was running....and there went my ego again. I had to remember what Coach Andrea said- that the important thing is for me was to have a strong run. So I watched Kristen run off ahead of me. But it didn't matter that she was ahead, it was just nice knowing she was out here with me. Maybe misery does love company!!!!

As we were about 2 miles out from the rec center again (Mile 18 for me), I caught up with Kristen and we were able to finish the run to the cars together....and when we go there, Elizabeth was waiting to run the last 5 with us! We had a blast!!!!!!

I must say, it there is ANY one you want to run the last 5 miles of a long run with you, it's Elizabeth!!!!! She rocks! Elizabeth has wonderful stories to tell and she is so positive- that you literally forget that your feet hurt, or your left glute is hurting.....

So the three of us did our last 2.5 miles out and back for the final 5 miles. Running those last 2.5 miles I felt strong....I mean really strong. Elizabeth commented on how she was running harder than the previous week, which meant I was able to run a stronger pace. It's nice too having Elizabeth as a measure.... I know how I felt, but she could confirm that I was running stronger this week. And as we ran into the parking lot there were hugs all around, a min leg rubdown from Elizabeth, and we were off to the rest of our days.

I'm not sure when my next long (25 mi +) run may be....but I'm kinda sad that I don't have any on my training schedule for March. I have really enjoyed running this distance and finding in myself and ability I didn't know for sure that I had. I have learned how to pace myself, not based on a watch, but based on my own awareness of myself. It's kinda amazing how one about 1 year ago, I could not run worth a darn....and today I love 25 mile runs.....Anything truly is possible when we try. And I look forward to my next LONG RUN!
PS- Thank you Elizabeth for you support and laughs! And Kristen for being out there with me!
(video to come)

The first 25 Miler

2009-02-16T04:40:00.000-07:00

So Sundays long run...and what a long run it was!

I started out at Goodson Rec Center at 7:30 in the morning. The temp was 25 degrees with the promise of high 40s later in the day.

My plan was to run out the High Line Canal Trail for 5 miles and return to the car to get more water- run out another 5 and return to car for water and then last 5 miles. I had bottles and bottles of water in my car- my Go Lite Fanny Pack ready and loaded and plenty of daylight to burn.

I started off my run at a very leisurely pace...my coach won't allow me to look at my Garmin to check pace or heart rate, so not sure my pace-just knew it felt good and I was not going out too fast.

You know there IS something about the EGO when you see people passing you. I have to hold my ego in check and what helps me do that is to think about the fact that these people probably where not running 25 miles. Thinking of this allows me to be ok with the fact that I was running slow.....Not to say that I actually ever run fast....but, that this run was going to take a few hours and my personal goal was to feel strong for the whole 25 miles.

So my first 10 miles went great. Felt fantastic- there was a slight breeze- the sun was shinning- and the people on the trail where friendly.....I fueled myself regularly and when I got to the car I exchanged water bottles and headed back out for another 10 miles.

As I was on my way back- around mile 16- I was running up this short hill and coming toward me was a run I recognized....It was my good friend Kristen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It was so incredible to see her out there! I was instantly filled with love and energy! It was like a shot of adrenaline. To get a hug from her in the middle of my run was a wonderful gift! And with no time to dally- we both kept on our ways.

I made it back to the car for mile 20 and at this point my other very good friend Elizabeth (see blog entry "funnin on the mesa") met me for the last 5 miles of my run. What an amazing friend to do this.....So-I picked up another fresh water bottle- grabbed Elizabeth and we were off for the finale.

Elizabeth was awesome...you have to realize that she is a good 9" taller than me, and bless her heart she was running my pace the whole time. It was so cute because Elizabeth had all these wonderful stories to tell me- and it was perfect..... I didn't have to talk and could just listen to what she said-which helped to take my mind off the fact that I had already run 20 miles and that some body parts where starting to be a bit uncomfortable.

By the time we finished it was about 5 1/2 hours after I started....and the best part (or one of the best parts) was that I finished STRONG! I felt great! Elizabeth even commented that I was running a pretty good pace in the last few miles.....How exciting is that!

You know-after the marathon- and how I did not finish strong- it was nice to have the experience of finishing strong on this run.... What a difference going out slow can make-PLUS proper nutrition.

So-Thank you Elizabeth (immensely) and thank you Kristen for helping me get through my 25 mile run this past Sunday......It was a spiritual experience....and LOVE YOU GALS!

And One More Thing.....

2009-02-15T12:33:00.000-07:00

after I finished that 25 miler-about 2 hours later- I got to go SWIM for 45 minutes non stop! And ya know what- I didn't even feel tired.......

I get really excited when I feel like I am making progress with my level of fitness.
I was talking to Andrea (my coach) yesterday and shared with her how after this past Sunday's workouts of a 25 mile run followed by a 45 min. swim- how I was beginning to feel burly. I mean like- I"m getting pretty fit.

Yesterday someone else pointed out that it pretty awesome that I am able to run 25 miles without much trouble. She said that I could pick any marathon and just go do it, and how many people train all year to do just a marathon- and here I am running that distance for training.

It's funny how other peoples perspectives help to put "me" and my view of myself into a different light. I don't really realize that it kinda is a big deal to do this stuff and that not everyone can......Although I believe anyone has the potential to do anything if they want to and try to.....

So, with that- here's to the next 25 mile run this Sunday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Swimmin and Swimmin and Runnin............

2009-02-10T09:18:00.005-07:00

It's been awhile since I've checked in and posted what's going on. So, February is the month my coach Andrea decided to "stretch" my mind/limits. This month I have two 25 mile runs on my training calendar plus tons of swimming and more running during the week!

Yesterday I got to masters early and started swimming then- swam masters. During lunch I went to the gym and strength trained then following work did a 45' continous swim....and I loved every minute of it! Am I weird or what? I felt so good in the evening following that swim.....And I slept like a baby...

Many changes are a comin....in my personal life and in my training. February is my birth month-so it's a great time to try new things and stretch my mind.

My coach talks about "placing myself" in reference to the group I train with. She helps me see that I may be limiting myself with my own beliefs about what I am capable of doing and achieving. Hence-this month is about challenging those beliefs and breaking through barriers that may be holding me back...now how fun is that? Seriously! To find a new level- and new ability- to expand my belief in myself.....It'll take a lot of work- or then again- maybe not.....
All I know is I am absolutely gamed for it!

Here's to Going The Distance!

An Lunch Hour Run

2009-01-30T15:16:00.003-07:00

Now how amazing is it to live in a place where it's 20 degress on Tues and 60 on Friday. Ya gotta love it.
Spent my lunch hour today going for a 6 mile endurance run. Went to Washington Park and hit the trail. It was a glorious day. Truely amazing to be running in shorts and a t-shit in the middle of winter (?).....
The run started off pretty ruff. Took about 3 miles to warm up- as in my bones and muscles....
After that I felt great. I felt like my running form has changed a bit....maybe that because I had plenty of time to be aware of it during my marathon.
There were so many people out today during lunch. People running, walking dogs, walking w/stollers. People where playing tennis and feeding the geese. It was glorious! I love living in Denver. It just doesn't get better than this....but that's just my opinion. :)
One thing I noticed was my knees were a touch sore after the run...not an injured sore- more a use sore and I attribute that to running downhill for 18+ miles during the marathon....
Anyway-what a great way to spend lunch today! Sure beat eating in front of my computer doing work :)
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/1987113

Swimmin with the Big(ger) Dawgs

2009-01-29T19:47:00.002-07:00

Yahoo- today Coach Carol put me in the next faster lane at Masters!!! I've moved up a lane in the Green Mountain Dawgs Masters! I can't believe it! I am actually two lanes up from the slowest lane now.......
I remember last Feb when I went to Masters for the first time and started off with Dawn and Louise and a few others in the slowest lane. They were so kind and helped me understand swim etiquitte (something I've found handy since there can be some pretty cranky people first thing in the morning!).
I definatly had my butt kicked today. We were on the long course and I was the last one in our line of swimmers. The moderate laps were ok- but when we had to crank out those fast laps, I was struggling to keep up!
I love feeling like I might puke by the side of the pool! (no puking in the water :0
So here's to swimmin with the Bigger Dawgs.....Mornings were never as fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The after thoughts of the Marathon

2009-01-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

It's funny how many people ask you- How'd ya do? And when I got asked that I had to think about it.....my first response is- "I finished". It's been hard to feel good about my race- as I ended up walking a lot in the last 4 miles. Doing that leaves me feeling like I did not race well.....My coach always talks about executing a good race. So did I? Probably not.

I started the race going out too fast. Even though I was toward the back- it was still too fast. Beginning with 3 miles of serious downhill made it hard for me to hold back a bit more. I felt absolutely fantastic until around mile 18. At that point I just hit a wall-slump-whatever you want to call it- but I never really made it back.

Also, at mile 18 I ate 1/2 an espresso gu- I think that effected me too as it did not sit well with me at all.

But there is still that nagging feeling when someone asks me how I did- I don't feel like I did "well". I feel like I finished.....but I did not finish strong. Interesting how just finishing a marathon is not good enough....I actually want to do another one soon to take what I've learned from this one and try again....

So what did I learn- start out slow- pace myself better- be careful not to overfuel (NO MORE Choc Gu's!!!)- and don't walk no matter what! It's absolutely almost impossible to run continous again after walking........Good races/not so good races- I actually am blessed that I am able to do this at all, and am grateful I have my health and wellbeing....

Redding Marathon

2009-01-21T04:38:00.007-07:00

So I did it. I ran a marathon! Yahoo! And boy are my quads screamin. All that downhill worked them.
How the day went- got down to Redding around 6:30 and picked up my race packet-then my mom and I drove up to Shasta Dam where the race start was. It was still dark when we arrived and the wind was bitter cold. Luckily they had a clothes drop off so we were all able to stay warm until the start.
Speaking of the start- right as I was lining up I meet a woman named Kelly and we hit it off immediately. She and I ended up running the whole marathon together. It was awesome!
I had a good pace to start(didn't go out too fast) as I had 4 miles of serious downhill to begin. Kelly and I could see we where towards the tail end of the pack- but by mile 5 we began passing people.
The run was beautiful as it followed the Sacramento River the whole way. At times as I looked back I could see Mt Shasta majestically standing above the river.
The course was mostly downhill with some climbing from miles 12-14-then downhill to mostly flat the rest of the way.
I felt really great until mile 18-then the wall hit. I had a really hard time after that. It's like things just stopped working. It happened when I hit the bike trail which was mostly flat. I had the hardest time continuing to run and wanted to walk. It was such a mental thing. I just wanted to walk...and walk...and then my mind would be -no don't walk it makes it harder. I really struggled with finding a rythym. I could hit good rythym for a while then my mind would tell me I was tired...blah,blah,blah.....So with Kelly's encouragement and little things to focus on with my form- we were able to cross the finish line. My time- 5:07:50. That's an 11:25 pace. Need some work-yeah- but I finished! And at least I was under 12 min miles.
Fuel-I used the Carbo-Pro (finished only 2 servings-not enough), aminos,vo2max,thermolyte. I took one half espresso clif gel and after that is when I began to not feel good. Ummm.
One really fun part of running this is my mom was at all the spots where spectators could watch. I enjoyed looking into the crowd and spotting her as I ran into the area. She was so cute, dressed in pink and taking pictures. It helped so much to see her there and I found I was looking forward to seeing her each time. She was a rock star in her support of me!
At the finish my dad, mom and brother-in-law were there. What an awesome way to end my day- family and Olive Garden!

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/1859851

Visiting McCloud

2009-01-16T16:05:00.008-07:00

So here I am visiting my family in McCloud California. I am out here to see my family and run in the Redding Marathon on Sunday. I was told by my coach that I needed to run a marathon in January and there just happens to be one an hour away from my folks home.

It has been wonderful to see my mom and dad and spend time with my sister (and her husband!). The weather here is incredible. 50's during the day. McCloud sits at the base of Mt Shasta and normally the highs should be around 20-30 and it should be snowing. Not this week though!

I have enjoyed relaxing and sleeping in (8:30am!) I've been on rest days with a 30' easy run tomorrow. I have begun to "carbo-load" by drinking CarboPro and taking VO2Max in preperation for Sunday. Also, plenty of water! Nothing like time in the forest and nature to help with relaxation.

Until Sunday I will enjoy just being with my parents. Tonight my sister and her husband will be over and we're all going to watch our old home movies. Should be an absolute riot and walk down memory lane! I can't wait! Fun, Fun and more fun! And some serious relaxing until Sunday........See ya at the start line!

Weekly Round Up

2009-01-11T15:43:00.002-07:00

Weekly Roundup- last week before the Marathon, next weekend.

Weekly:
Swims: 2 days; 1 masters; 1 free swim 1 hour non stop- 2 hours
Bikes: 2 days; 3 hours
Runs: 1 day (missed 1 day): 14 miles
Other: Weights- 2 days
Stretch 2 days

Sleep: Not so good this week. Alot of sleepless nights
Recovery: Bodywork; massage followed by compression pants;
Nutrition: ate well this week
Mood: for the most part sad
Health: Good!

Key Workout:
Description: 14 mile endurance run w/ 4 miles at tempo
Location: South Table Mesa
Nutrition: 1 Hammer Gel; SportsQuest- Aminos, thermolyte, Vo2Max
Weather: low 30's and pleasant
Distance: 12.5
Pace: 10-12 min.
Heart Rate: 140
Comments: Felt really bad starting out for over 1 hour. No sleep all week nor night before.- Felt better after taking sportsquest products!

Sunday

2009-01-11T15:40:00.002-07:00

Rode the trainer this morning to get-er-done. It was cold and windy.....suppose to do 3 hours, could only handle 2.5 hours....what a wimp. At least it's done.
So, three more days and I'm on a plane to California. Get to visit my folks and sister!
Then next Sunday is the Redding Marathon! I am so excited! It will be a great trip and a good run no matter what.

Funnin' on the Mesa

2009-01-11T08:24:00.004-07:00

Set out for a run with my good friend Elizabeth Saturday morning. After a night of absolutely NO sleep following my friends funeral, I was groggy and not feeling well. But showed up at Elizabeths house bright and early and we were off for some FUNning on South Table Mesa.

The run was hard for over an hour. I felt like cr..! I took some of the SportsQuest products and within minutes I felt better. And I was finally able to kick my butt in gear and get some miles movin.
It was a cool day- 30 degrees or so- but we had a blast. Most of the miles were endurance which lent to lots of talking and catching up....but then I was on my own for my tempo milage. I'd go out for 1/2 mile and come back and catch up with Lizabeth. We had a blast!!!!!!!
All in all- good run- lots of fun!!!!!!!
Can't wait to do it again.
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/1768614

Rembering an Angel

2009-01-10T06:31:00.002-07:00

For those of you who don't know, I work as a case manager for the Mental Health Center of Denver (MHCD). In my work I get the opportunity to work with people with severe and persistent mental illness and substance abuse problems. I have the privilege to be a part of 28 peoples lives on a daily basis and support them when ever, however they may need me.

This past week one of the people I was fortunate enough to be a part of her life, passed away in her sleep. Her passing has touched me deeply. For confidentiality purposes I will call her Jane.

I came into Jane's life almost two years ago. I remember the first time she came into the clinic to meet me, skeptical and reserved to meet yet another case manager. In that first hour of meeting me we formed a mutual respect and bond that lasted until her passing.

To say Jane's life was hard and she had struggles that she over came would be an understatement. Jane came to MHCD 6 years ago homeless, and struggling with addiction and untreated Bipolar disorder.. By the time I met her 2 years ago she had 3 years of recovery from addiction and 3 years of recovery from Bipolar disorder. Jane had taken the challenges in her life and turned them into learning experiences that she overcame.

Jane had a way of reaching out to people and making them feel welcomed and love. She had an incredible ability to ALWAYS see the positive and beauty in everything and everyone. She lived modestly yet always gave whatever she could to someone in need. Her heart was bigger than the room and so was her love for life. When ever life presented her with a challenge she faced it and remained positive. Jane's ability to remain positive was amazing and humbling at the same time and she always amazed me with her inner strength and resilience.

Jane did not have to let me be a part of her life. I can not express how HONORED I always felt the she did allow me to share her life, that she allowed me to be by her side during the challenges that arose. Jane was truly one of the most amazing people I have ever met. I feel privileged to have shared 2 years of her life with her.

What I take from knowing Jane is summed up in one of her favorite sayings:
Live Well
Love Large
And
Laugh Often.

I thank you Jane for the privilege of knowing you and for allowing me to share a part of your life.

I know you are with the Angels singing and dancing.

Running Another 20

2009-01-04T19:00:00.006-07:00

Wow- I continue to be surprised by the fact that I am actually able to run 20 miles or more! I never knew I could do this-especially weekend after weekend. It's really cool!
So the run was fun- I parked at Goodson Rec Center and decided to break the run into 5 miles sections....I went south on High Line for 5-turned around and at mile 10 was back at the car. I was able to swap water bottles for full ones and headed north for another 5 out and back. It was nice to do this as it broke the run up and I only had to think about doing 5 miles at a time-not 20.
The cool part is my time was about 2 mins less per mile than my 26 mile run. I felt like I finally might be getting how to run so it feels like I'm rolling over my feet....It was actually easier to go fast than slower like I would normally....amazing. My thighs were a-blazin and I just kept thinking this is what it's going to take at Ironman.....
One thing I noticed about myself on the final 5 miles-when someone passed me I wanted to stop....I'm not sure what that's about- but I think it might be something I want to turn around....it would be good to get the gumption to chace after someone rather than stop...hummmmm
The weather was cool and overcast the whole time. Right when I finished running it started snowing- I love how things can work out like that!

Worked on the fuel again- 1 Mocha Gu (YUK); steamed red potatoes w/salt (not so good); peanut butter (definatly not); Vanilla Hammer Gel (love it!)
Drank 3 bottles of water......
So here's to runnin another 20
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/1768622

Monday Mornin- Go To Masters Meetin

2008-12-29T10:52:00.000-07:00

Ok- so this morning I SERIOUSLY, SERIOUSLY, concidered hitting the snooze button (oops don't have one) staying in bed, and missing Masters Swimming. The games the mind can play at 4:10 am. "It won't matter if you miss one swim workout. But-you haven't swam in over one week. But still- I mean who's going to know? Wait, Andrea (my coach) she'll know. But I'm sooooo tiiiirrreeeed. Just GET UP NOW!"
So that's how it went for a few minutes until I rolled out of bed- pet Kai (my dog) who sleeps next to the bed- downed some water, made some tea and headed off to Masters.
Swimming felt good today. Did many laps of pulling which suit my legs just fine. Tried backstoke and that always seems to hurt my right shoulder. I can maybe do one length and that's it. We did some 100's then FAST 25's. Many, many sets of 25's. It was fun to do some LT swimming today.....
And you know what I find...? I may not want to get to a workout but once I'm done- I'm always glad I showed up!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Weekly Roundup

2008-12-28T18:55:00.003-07:00

Another really good training week. Lots of running which felt good and it was nice to be on the bike 3 times this week. The best was being able to get outside for 3 of the workouts! YEAH!
Felt good- pretty good sleep- too much sugar and not the best nutrition...but hey- it was Christmas!

Weekly
Swims: none
Bikes: 3 Days- 7 hrs
Runs: 3 Days- 6 hrs 40'
Weights: none
Stretching: 4 days

Sleep: pretty good this week. Got more than 6 hours many nights
Recovery: Chiropractic- that's about it this week
Mood: pretty good-
Health: Very healthy! No aches or pain or sniffles.

Key Workout:
Description: 17 Mile Run
Location: High Line Canal Trail from Goodson Rec Center
Nutrition: Hammer Perpet; Clif Shot Mocha- 16 oz water
Weather: 27 degrees- clear- breezy
Distance: 17 Miles
Pace: 12:94
Heart Rate Stats: 144 AHR; 159 Max HR
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/1650490

Comments: good run- enjoyable- I felt good on run.

Spinnin My Wheels

2008-12-28T16:00:00.003-07:00

Sundays plan was to do an endurance ride 3-4 hours in Boulder with my biking buddies. One of those fun High Cadence Low Resistance rides.
Problem was got up to Boulder and the wind was howling! After a few phone calls for a wind check we decided to head down to REI in Denver and ride the South Platte Bike Path. Good call on our part and the wind was not bad at all.
So off we were at a leisurly pace, warming up the legs after Saturday's run. Felt a bit fatiqued in the beginning but then my legs warmed up and I enjoyed good company and a good cadence for the 3 hour ride.
What glorious weather it was- had to be about 50 degrees- slight wind and tons of sunshine for most of the ride.
For fuel I had a Clif Bar and a Gu...both worked well. Overall ride felt good, spun out my legs and enjoyed the company....
Info at:http://connect.garmin.com/activity/1650487

Saturday Long Run

2008-12-27T19:11:00.008-07:00

Spent the morning relaxing and sleeping in (till 7!). Then it was off to High Line Canal at Goodson Rec Center to tackel 17 miles.
The weather was 27 degrees at 9:30 am and the sun was out, with a bit of a wind blowing. Got my water and fuel belt on me and started off headed north on the trail.
For about the first 3 miles my left shin was sore...and by about mile 6 I was feeling warmed up and flowing. I have ran this trail a few times before but the farthest I had ever gone was mile marker 4.... So I was on to new territory today.
The front range was beautiful and full of snow in the mountains, the cottonwoods with no leaves really stood out showing just how majestic they truly are. The wind was cold and I was glad to have on two pairs of gloves and wind jacket.
For fuel I had made a Hammer Perpetuim in gel form and 1 Mocha Clif Shot. I must say neither of these sat well with me. Perpetuim made me burp and the Mocha clif shot upset my stomach.....I drank about 20 oz of water...not enough for sure.
I felt great and kept my HR around the upper end of endurance. I could feel myself rolling over my feet rather than "thudding" them down. I thought of the nuances that Sonja and Steve have told me.....and found these thoughts helped to keep me moving along at a good pace....
And then was the turn around at mile 8.5. I had no idea it's slightly up hill the whole way back to the rec center......Imagine that....there was a point around mile 14 where I felt tired, but that lasted for a few minutes and I was back in the groove...Nothing like the final 2 Miles to keep ya going!
All in all- great run- felt strong.

Check out the run at http://connect.garmin.com/activity/1650490

Spinning After Christmas

2008-12-26T20:26:00.000-07:00

Woke up with morning at 3:45AM to ride my trainer for 2 hours.....Not an easy feat following Christmas day at my cousin Michelle's house with her husband and two children. We had a wonderful brunch and spent the rest of the afternoon playing games and eating cookies- Oh by the way - did I mention we ate COOKIES- for hours on end!
Needless to say- I woke up with a sugar hangover facing two hours on my trainer.....but all was not lost as I had the movie Deception to take my mind off how hungover I felt...
The ride went well- high cadence and low resistance. The movie was action packed and suspenseful- which kept me going and spinning fast. I had lots of water on hand and drank plenty hoping to flush out the sugar- And I was successful! By the time I finished I was feeling like myself and no hangover :)
Next I was off to work for the day with the weekend ahead! Big run tomorrow- 17 miler- should be fun!
I'm glad the indulgence of the holidays only come once a year...

Wednesday's Wacky 10 miler

2008-12-24T20:11:00.004-07:00

I was scheduled for a 10 mile run today No problem- the clinic where I work was closing at 3pm and I figured I could actually get in an outdoor run during the week for a change....So- off I went to Bear Creek Lake Park for a lovely 10 mile run.
I start off along the creek which is frozen solid and beautifully peaceful. Then I make it out onto the open fields running around a stream toward Bear Creek Lake.
I'm about 45 mins into the run and it dawns on me that the park closes at dark...and I parked inside the gates of the park...OH-OH. So I turn around and booked it back towards my car....luckily I was scheduled to do miles 5,7,9 as tempos....so I ended up doing my first tempo work in at mile 4.
I made it back to the car as I saw a ranger drive by...got in my car and drove about a mile out of the park to continue my run inside the park.....I was able to get another 2 miles in before it got dark (mile 7 another tempo)-
SO THEN- I got back in my car- drove home for the last 3 miles to be completed on my treadmill with mile 9 being tempo again.......
It was a completely wacky run!!!! I have never broken up a run into 3 different sections in 3 different locations......
But I did my 10- and got some time outdoors- Oh and by the way, I noticed the park doesn't close the gates until 6pm. I still had another hour when I turned around originally......

Hitting the Treadmill

2008-12-24T09:27:00.003-07:00

Woke up Tues morning 4am to get in my Repeat Running workout...a cup of tea and it was downstairs to the basement for the workout on my treadmill.
Started off with 2 miles at a super easy pace-then...the pain began! Did 4 X 1 mile repeat at 9:00 pace- which for me is HARD. There were times during each repeat when I wanted to stop...but I kept with it...sweating my brains out-even with the fan blowing on me.
My legs were burning by the final repeat and I must admit I was glad it was over. And I was absolutely glad I did it! I know that every workout gets me in better shape and hopefully closer to a faster runtime next season...
Today will bring a 10 mile run which I am looking forward to as I will be able to be outdoors-Yeah!

Weekly Round Up-

2008-12-22T04:40:00.003-07:00

Good training week in all-except for my right hip at the beginning of the week. I was concerned I would not be ready to run 26 mi this past Sat. But with a few chiropractic adjustments and bodywork by Brian- I ran without problems...
Nutrition was good this week. No sugar or sweets-even with the cookie exchange at work :)

So the week of training break down:
Swims: 2 days- 3hrs 15'- about 4.5 miles
Bikes: 1 day- 1 hour
Run: 2 days- 7 hrs 30'- 33 miles
Weights- 2 days- 1 hr 15'
Stretch- 3 days

Over all- great training week. I am really proud of myself and that I was able to run 26 miles on Sat and swim 3 miles on Sunday. That is pretty cool- especially since I've been at this for just one year. I am very excited and hopeful for Ironman-given I'm a year out and already able to train at these distances! What excitement!! And I feel great!

Early Sunday Mornin 5K Swim

2008-12-21T19:36:00.004-07:00

Up at 4:30 again for the second time this weekend! So much for sleepin in.

Got up and met the gang at Carmody Rec Center for 3K and 5K swim. I was signed up for the 5K- no paddles, bouy or fins... MY first 3 mile swim!

Well the good news is- I DID IT! Yeah. No bad news, just good news.

I was butt tired for about the first 18 laps (that's long course laps). Just felt tired...and then around lap 18 I finally felt warmed up and in a rythym. I could feel that my form is improving. One indicator is my neck isn't sore. I must be rolling better to breath.

So- I noticed as I was swimming one of the guys in the faster lane- I was keeping up with him-So what I realized today is where I lose time is on my turns. Actually that's the problem- I don't flip turn so loose a lot of time, power and speed coming off the wall. I need to really work on this when I'm at masters from now on.

Anyway- it was fun and I love swimming- but boy are my legs tired- but not hurting and no injuries!

FUEL- ate 1 egg and 1 bread about 1 hr before swim. That seemed to hold me good....

Post swim-some of us went to the Danish Bakery (yummy scones!) and then Starbucks....fun and food. What more could you want!

Pictures from Practical Coaching

Saturday 26 miles of fun- run....

2008-12-21T19:00:00.003-07:00

My first long run today. I was so nervous this morning. The weather was forecasted to be 4 degrees, snowy, cloudy- and instead we ended up with a glorious day. Temps were in the 20s and the sun was a shinin.
Started the run at Andrea's house in Highlands Ranch and ran bike trail along C-470 all the way to Golden. My hip had been hurting pretty bad all week, so I took it slow for the majority of run. Most of run was uphill and I mainly walked the down hills. I find that I hold back a bit, I think because I am not sure what I am really capable of. Could I have run faster...possibly. I figure I'll try at the Marathon in Jan. I am shooting for sub 5 hours. That would rock!
Ran the 26 miles in 6:06. Slow and steady with a break for water at Conoco in Morrison.
I just tried to upload the run from my Garmin...and it's in cyber heaven somewhere. Kinda bummed I lost the information from this run....:(
For FUEL- I consumed 3 gels, 1 clif bar and 1/2 banana. DRANK 3 bottles of water. I took my sportsquestdirect pills every hours- but did not use Carbo Pro this time. I like the Carbo Pro best I think.
I enjoyed running with Andrea. For a while Christy was with us and Andrea and her were running faster than I was ready to....It kinda sucks to be behind sometimes...who am I kidding...it sucks all the time. In time- I'll get fasterrr...................
I really love running this amount of time and this distance. Could have done without the hiway traffic. But it still was glorious and I felt absolutely blessed!

For recovery tried the moon pants that Chipolte/Garmin team uses. They were awesome and I think they helped a lot. The Wendy's hambuger might have helped too :)

All in all- great run! I ran 26 miles and was not dead by the end! It feels great to already be able to run 26 miles and I'm a year out from IRONMAN..... Cool stuff!!!!!

Reflections on the weekend...

2008-12-17T16:37:00.004-07:00

It was a hard training weekend. My hip started hurting and affected the way I walked. Got a chiropractic adjustment and bodywork done on Tues. Today I am walking normal again and am painfree.
What caused this...last week I slipped on some ice...and think that started the problems off.....
I did my workouts, with pain, but got through them. It was a challenging weekend...that's for sure. Lot's of running on a messed up hip.
Today's a rest day. I'm glad for that.
Have been paying attention to what I am eating. No holiday sweets this week as I feel it affected my ability-or should I say inability to run on Sat. I have a 25 mi run coming Sat...I am hoping to feel good and to support myself with proper nutrition.
This will be a good test for my head language.....
Link to the run:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/1556743

A few days later....

2008-12-17T13:51:00.001-07:00

Early Monday Morning

2008-12-15T04:22:00.004-07:00

Up early for 2 x 500 swim before masters today...temp is -3...should be fun getting to and from the rec center.
Slept ok- kinda woke up a few times, a bit tired this morning...
Cup-o-tea and time to go soon.

First Day of Blogging

2008-12-14T19:19:00.007-07:00

My goodness. It was one heck of a training weekend. Saturdays run about did me in. It was brutal and felt harder than Ultimate Race in Moab. I had a hard time keeping up with the group...The way I'd describe it is I felt ROUGH around the edges. Never hit a groove, never found that rhythm. Today was not much better....my legs are SORE. Got a bit of a right hip thing going on, it's a bit hard to walk normal.....
The holidays have taken their toll also. My thoughts are that I did not eat so well this past week and it caught up with me this weekend. Good to learn this now.
Need to dig down and not give up. Sonja was great and helped me a lot. Talked to me about strategies, form and what to not have go through my mind. I so appreciated that!
Early night...Time for bed...

WEEKLY-
Swims: 2 miles swim- felt great
Bikes: 1 day of 1 hours
Runs: 3 days- 4:45
Others: Strength- 2 days.

Sleep: Ok this week- RHR High
Recovery: Not much recovery this week
Mood: Overall- positive but energy down.
Health: Healthy...

Comments:Good week....hard weekend...need to focus on nutrition again!!!

Pictures from Practical Coaching

Ultimate XC Moab Trail Race

2008-11-20T16:18:00.002-07:00

Went to Moab on Nov 14-16 for a 20 miler "trail race".
The race ended up being 23 miles (Canadian)- and was an adventure run! The run was spectacular! Running through the most beautiful canyons and mesas in Moab. As I was running I frequently felt so blessed that I was able to be exactly there in that moment and that I was able to run.
The run was challenging at times...the hardest part for me was just running sometimes. My strengths came from my years of climbing and backpacking. We had to ascend from one canyon to a mesa over the course of less than one mile with an elevation gain of 2800'. This felt like a rest to me...as I had hiked ascents like this many times, but this time I did not have a pack on.

The other part that play to my strengths was crossing rock and descending rock. At these areas I was able to pass people who weren't as comfortable on these sections. I loved the race. 6 hours went by fast it seemed. I finished in 5:55:46. Not bad for my first race....also, heard from people who have done adventure runs befor that this was a more technical and challenging course than most races......What a great time....I am feeling more fit and more confident in my abilitites as an athlete!!Love it! I could do more of these races!
Pictures from Practical Coaching

Another Weekend Training

2008-11-11T16:34:00.000-07:00

Another weekend training...
So what an incredible weekend. It was absolutely beautiful with perfect weather. Ran Dinasor ridge to Red Rock stairs...the stairs were great. Did 8 sets-felt good, but boy am I sore in my calves after that.Ran back to car through RR and it was a bit tough....It was great to be with the group. I am enjoying doing things with everyone.3000 m swim Sundayy. Fun. It was tough for a bit theere but got over that and hit a sweat rythym. 1:04:22 for my time. I could have pushed harder. I can see how I am holding back, but then again it is Lsd time.

HalfMax Long Course Nationals

2008-11-08T16:32:00.000-07:00

HalfMax Long Course Nationals
What an experience that was. The hardest thing I have done in Tris so far. I did it and it was brutal.

The First Week of Training for IRONMAN Cozumel

2008-11-06T16:33:00.000-07:00

The First Week of Training for IRONMAN Cozumel
So this week started my first weekend of serious training again with the goal of IM Coz. I am ready to train train train.....Had a good run on Sat on the Colorado Trail from Waterton Canyon. 16 mi in 4:04I felt good. Almost went out too fast but then I felt steady and solid for the trail. I lvoed it.My legs are sore today. The next day. opppNovemeber starts my training in earnsest. I had two slower, easier weeks. But no more. Time to rock it to Cozumel!

One Week Later

2008-07-04T16:31:00.000-06:00

One Week Later
Here I am one week later. I am enjoying a complete rest day on this fourth of july. No nothing...no work...no training. The only time I get a rest day from training is when I am working, so this is awesome.... I was tired this week. It took about 3 days to recover from race. Felt good Wed when I swam masters....my run Thurs was a bit hard. New shoes.....and 90 degree heat. I get my butt kicked on these runs....I use to love running so much and it seemed effortless. It will be again....it just takes a while to learn a new form.... Got the pics from the race....One thing I notice is I really need to be lifting. My upper body is flat......more muscle please...otherwise I am slimming down! YEah. Long day riding tomorrow. Everything is packed for the ride...I'll check in later after the ride.......

Loveland Lake 2 Lake

2008-07-02T16:26:00.001-06:00

Lake 2 Lake
Here it is 4 days after Lake 2 Lake Triathlon. My first olympic distance tri. I had soooo much fun. Went up to Loveland Friday night with Noel and got a good nights sleep.Race morning got there before 5:00am and set up in the transition area. I was able to get a spot with the gang on the first rack. Did my warmup run and then put on wet suit and headed to the water. I started in the last wave...guess I'll be in the last wave from now on :)

So how did the race go? I felt a little nervous and was having thoughts like...I hope I can do this whole swim....but then I got in a rythum and it seemed to help. I kept seeing green heads ahead of me, and at times passed some men from the wave before. I did ok with sighting.....I found it hardest to stay straight after the final turn going straight to shore.....
I just kept with it...and didn't give up and got into a groove...THEN was the run to the transition area out of the water...that was tough at first. I waited to start getting my wetsuit off until I got my legs since it was so far....saw some people using the wetsuit strippers..what an idea that is...
So, got to my bike, wiped my feet with a towel- put on sox (need to get knew sox that go on easier) then helmet, sip of water, and grabed my bike. Kinda hard getting out of transition due to plywood.
Got on bike and almost started out too slow. Kinda paced myself...didn't get anaerobic until first climb. The bike went much quicker than I thought it would. When I rode the course the week before it felt like a lot more climbing. The bike felt pretty darn good. I LOVE THE AREO BARS! They sure allow you to get into a groove and go!
I passed quite a few people on the bike...it felt good....love the downhills. Again thanks for the TT bars.Oh YEAH- at the first water station one woman decided to drink from her bottle- I was passing her as she put the bottle back....and missed! I ran over her bottle. Thank God I didn't crash! The bottle was soft so it just squished under me. .....
Later on in the ride, as we were coming back into town some farmer dude, decided he would ignore the detour and the traffic volunteer and drove his big ol truck and trailer right onto the course....RIGHT infront of me and another woman on a bike....we both had a few choice words for that A-Hole. Needless to say, another possible crash was adverted (thank you God).
Rolled into transition again...feeling pretty good- the sun was not out and we had a cool dayRAcked the bike- whipped off the helmet- changed the shoes- had some water and ran out the back of the transition area to the run...
Saw some of the team running on their way back as I was in my first mile....held it pretty much at a 10' pace for the whole 6 miles. Took water and gateraide at each station....think the gateraide was too much...felt it by mile 4....my goal when I started running was to run the whole 6 miles, which I did.
IT sure was fun to cross the finish line! I loved it.....I loved the distance, I loved the work....I loved the race...I loved my mind....I loved the setting....I loved the people. I'm not sure if I could have gone a little harder somewhere...not sure. All I know, is I did it.