Sunday, October 16, 2011
SLUG
Yes - a slug. That is what I have become. I have been on my bike ONCE since Ironman. It was enjoyable, but I did have a completely flat back tire to start. I just pumped it up and went. I've done some minimal running - heck, minimal WALKING even! My ankle regularly hurts when pushing off and my plantar fasciitis is flaring in my left foot (same leg as the ankle issue). I did take the kids hiking at Devil's Lake State Park last Sunday, but it was a little painful. The pool and I are always friends. Sally bought a new workout book, and those workouts are butt-kicking! I am on a hiatus for a couple of weeks because Bert is in Wyoming hunting. I might go in for 30 minutes or so after I am done coaching on Monday as the boy has soccer practice until 6:30. Might as well just stay in town and wait until he is finished. I did yoga ONCE. Weights - nada. Oh how the mighty have fallen! I have to have a plan. I am seriously considering joining the gym when it re-opens after the remodel. I would like to get some varied weight routines, do the rowing machine, rehab my ankle on the treadmill, maybe take some different classes. I need to clean up my diet. I don't think concrete mixers several times per week are really acceptable at this point. Bert is doing a winter cycling program -- This plan-- and I think I might do the same. Every season I say I am going to work on my biking during the winter, but I do not. I would like to bike with him next summer as he prepares for Ironman Mont Tremblant. I do not have a race plan for next season. I am a big glob of goo. I had to have my cholesterol done for work a few weeks ago. I'm at an increased risk for coronary disease! This was 3 weeks post Ironman. I need to EXERCISE more! Can you believe that??? Maybe I need to consider a double Ironman! Ultra-marathon? Maybe just a summer and a winter Ironman so that I am always in tip-top shape. Maybe I should go to Culver's and ponder my plan.....
Friday, September 16, 2011
Ironman Wisconsin The Saga: Part Four - THE RUN -- 6:06.50
So - once I passed my family, I did start to run. I ran around the Capitol and onto State St. I saw my sister here right before turning onto Henry. I did not stop though, I wanted to keep going. Shortly around the 1 mile mark, the winning woman passed me. Gave her a shout out. It was pretty cool seeing the top few pro women with their motorcycle escort. I stopped at the porta-potty. Still really not much to talk about except for the fact that it was a brown color. Saw Juice at the 1st aid station. As he is quite the accomplished runner, I told him I was dehydrated and he advised me to keep drinking water. I decided to walk for a bit.
We go onto the SW commuter path and have to do a short out and back right here. I saw KimK here. WOW - she always is in a happy go-lucky mood. This would prove to continue later when I saw her too. I really wanted to go with her, but I decided to hold off for now. I saw Anna starting the out and back portion, so she was maybe a 1/2 mile behind me. I was walking at a pretty good clip. I decided to run Camp Randall - how often do we get to do that? That was fun. I actually liked the turf!
Not long after this, I decided to run/walk. It was about .5 run/.5 walk. I did this for a long time. Saw the family at State St. Walked with my sister-in-law Kelly. Asked her what to do about my dehydration. Keep drinking. I refilled my gatorade bottle with water 6 times, I believe. I would eat oranges at every aid station. I tried pretzels - too dry. I ate a cooke once - yuck! The grapes were okay, but oranges were better. The chips tasted good and went down easy. I did try the "coke" - which was really pepsi. Not great. Found that orange perform is tolerable. I drank that too. I was disappointed that the motivational mile wasn't working when I went by. I knew that Rob had put a message in. It must not have registered, because I know that others saw messages.
I was on Dayton st. - probably about 1 mile or so from the turnaround when Jen caught up with me. I met Jen at HHH and we did a long training ride together in August. I decided to stay with her. We passed my cheering crew on Henry and up to the Capitol we went. I saw Craig sitting on the sidewalk along the Capitol - I was bummed that he was out. Hit special needs. I grabbed my long sleeve shirt. I didn't want to take a chance that I wouldn't get it back. I used it to mop up sweat until I saw Rob again and handed it off to him at Henry again. I stopped at the porta-potty again. I peed! AND it wasn't so brown! Jen and I caught up again and we stayed together. The commuter path was kinda cool because you could see the sunset - it didn't seem like it was so long since we had seen the sunrise. There also appeared to be a full moon. It looked full, I don't know if it was official though. We got to run through Camp Randall under lights. That was pretty neat. Jen's husband Jon was at the 17 mile aid station. I'm sure she was glad to see him.
On we kept going on the dark lakeshore path. Our run intervals were shortening. We started on the chicken broth around here - GOLD!! Once we got to the University Mall, Jen stopped at the porta-potty. I kept going. I was going to stop on the way back. Saw the crew near the turnaround again. Let them know I was doing okay. Anna passed me right before we started on the mall. Apparently, she was near pulling out the 1st time though. I stopped at the bathroom - kept on going. Didn't know if Jen was still behind me or if she was in front of me. I kept plugging along. I was running when we got on the path, but I couldn't see anything. So, I walked. I was still doing fine mentally. Just having fun. There were so many people walking together -- I was very inspired. I started increasing my run intervals. I knew at the 22 mile point, that it wasn't much longer. I also knew I could finish before 10:30, which was my goal. I saw Jen not far behind me when I was going back towards the motivational mile.
When I got to State St. - the crowds were SO cool. Several people would clap me on the back, shake my hand, high-five me and said -- "Just ahead and you are an Ironman!". I got pretty excited. I started running at the Square. I passed Laura in this last area. She got engaged at the finish line, and had I known, I might have stopped to watch it unfold in front of me. But - onward I went. I saw Wade at the corner by Starbucks. I ran over and tossed my water bottle at him. I didn't want to be carrying it across the finish line. He said the family was around the corner on the left. I ran passed and high-fived them - ran across to the right to my friends Marcie, Stacie, and Madelyn to high-five them. AND - entered the finisher chute. I had some momentum and I couldn't slow down. I passed 2 men in this area.. I wish I would have slowed down, but I was SO happy to be done! I didn't even hear Mike Reilly announce my name. Thankfully, Wade caught it and posted it for me. He said "From Stoughton, WI. Gwendolyn Regan. Good Job Gwendolyn. For the 1st time - You Are AN Ironman!". I got caught at the end by 2 people. They took my chip, got me a hat and a shirt. Got me the mylar sheet. Took me to the finisher's photo area. Out the other side where everyone was waiting. Except Patrick - he was apparently asleep on the street where they had been standing. Hugged everyone and walked up to Patrick and Ann. I was dizzy and I had to keep walking. Ann, Jen, and kids left. Rob and I started walking back towards finish. I was not feeling well. Stopped at porta-potty. Went a little. Now, I was really feeling bad. I was having a hard time standing upright. We started making our way to the medical tent. Anna was here - apparently. Ran into Dan who helped keep me upright. Got into the med tent where 2 people took me. They wanted me to sit - I was not going to be able to do that. They held me until I could get weighed. I lost 16 pounds. They took me back to a cot. Right next to KimK - who was STILL HAPPY!!! Awesome. In the med tent and still smiling. I was happy to be laying down. I was shivering and my lips and fingers were tingling. It took them FOREVER to find a vein. They would put the tourniquet on and pull it off. Put it on, slap my arms. Cut my bracelet to see if they could find one in my wrist. Finally got an IV started. I remember my HR was 60 and I thought this was good. Near normal -- DUH!! I just finished nearly 15 1/2 hours of exercise -- it probably shouldn't have been so low. My BP was 90/60. Again - normal! On the 2nd bag of fluids, they propped me up a little and brought me some chicken broth to try to warm me up. My fingertips were blue-ish. I guess. I wasn't looking. I had a massage therapist working on my calves. Felt good. At this point, they came over and told me that if I couldn't walk out on my own in the next 15 minutes, I was going to have to go to the hospital. The medical tent closes at midnight when the race closes. There was no way this was going to happen. I was still shivering. The Dr. came over and I decided to go to Meriter. They talked to Rob - he had gotten my bike and bags and would meet me at the ER. Got into the ambulance - no siren or lights :( As I was laying there, I realized that early in the season, I had seen a Ryan Brothers ambulance while I was leaving work and I saw that it said "The official ambulance of Ironman Wisconsin". I remember calling Rob telling him that I had seen it and hoped that it wasn't a sign that I would need a ride on race day. I was thankful that it was just dehydration and not a crash.
Got registered in the Er - they started a 3rd bag. Decided to change into dry clothes. I was SOOOO cold. And I had to go to the bathroom! Went, got changed, and immediately started feeling warmer. My nurse - Tim - also brought me pedialyte. That tasted good. I was getting tired of water. The PA had come in to see if I was ready to be discharged. He told me that my labs were all screwed up -- except my potassium was normal -- yay me for eating bananas! Got discharged, out to the car and home we went. We got home after 2am. I was up at 5 again for the morning. I even had to get up 1 other time to go to the bathroom! My mother-in-law stayed and was up at 5 also to drive back up to Kohler in time for work.
HUGE HUGE thank you to her! She broke her ribs a couple of weeks ago and I am sure the day really was tough on her. I was glad that she was able to take the kids home and we didn't have to worry about them. Granted, when I asked her it was so I could enjoy the evening and bask in my post Ironman bliss. Not so Rob and I could sit in the ER.
Thanks to all of my friends and family - Jen for making the trip also -- Kelly and the girls. Loved seeing you guys out there. Carol and Sally who shared some of my early training with me and of course - time in the pool. Grateful for you girls too. Heather and Jodi and all of the boys coming to watch -- so cute! Of course - Marcie and Stacie and Madelyn for being at the finish. AND for the flowers! Thanks. Wade - the constant cheerleader! Thanks to you for being everywhere that day and doing some of my training with me also. I know there were so many of you that were watching online, were at the various points on the course -- I appreciate all of your well-wishes and thoughts in my training and on race day. My co-workers who had to hear me complain of being tired throughout the summer or sore. Also - for the thoughts and cake and pictures etc when I came back to work. SO fun! Lynn for getting the ball rolling on my ankle issues in December and Dr. Rongstad and Lynn for doing a great job on my ankle surgery. Still holding up!
Lastly - to Rob Patrick and Melanie. My big hesitation with doing this in the 1st place was how much it would affect our family life. Having been through it 2 years ago when Rob trained, I knew that there would be some lost time with them. I think I did pretty well going around their schedules, but sometimes I am sure I was a bear to be around. Rob's advice and support was invaluable. Mel and Patrick were very supportive - for the most part. They all were my biggest cheerleaders. I love them more than words can say. People ask me if I would do it again. I'm glad I did it. It was SUCH an incredible experience. I don't think I will do it again. I will not say never - I was not going to do an Ironman when I finished Door County last year and 2 weeks later I was plotting my course to Ironman! BUT - I have a husband going for IM #2 next summer in Mont Tremblant. I have 2 kids who are growing way faster than I approved of. Just the other day, Patrick said "Mom - in 9 years, I am going to be gone". I didn't want to point out that it was actually only 8 years...
So - thanks to EVERYONE for your support. I met some great people training. I hope to see you all at various events. I have met some good friends because of triathlon. I love the sport. I am not going away from it - just ramping it down a little. I'm looking forward to doing a little more besides just swim, bike, run. Maybe some fall hiking, cross country skiing, yoga, weights.... But likely - you can still find me at the pool several mornings a week. Everyone - Enjoy the off-season! I know I will!
We go onto the SW commuter path and have to do a short out and back right here. I saw KimK here. WOW - she always is in a happy go-lucky mood. This would prove to continue later when I saw her too. I really wanted to go with her, but I decided to hold off for now. I saw Anna starting the out and back portion, so she was maybe a 1/2 mile behind me. I was walking at a pretty good clip. I decided to run Camp Randall - how often do we get to do that? That was fun. I actually liked the turf!
Not long after this, I decided to run/walk. It was about .5 run/.5 walk. I did this for a long time. Saw the family at State St. Walked with my sister-in-law Kelly. Asked her what to do about my dehydration. Keep drinking. I refilled my gatorade bottle with water 6 times, I believe. I would eat oranges at every aid station. I tried pretzels - too dry. I ate a cooke once - yuck! The grapes were okay, but oranges were better. The chips tasted good and went down easy. I did try the "coke" - which was really pepsi. Not great. Found that orange perform is tolerable. I drank that too. I was disappointed that the motivational mile wasn't working when I went by. I knew that Rob had put a message in. It must not have registered, because I know that others saw messages.
I was on Dayton st. - probably about 1 mile or so from the turnaround when Jen caught up with me. I met Jen at HHH and we did a long training ride together in August. I decided to stay with her. We passed my cheering crew on Henry and up to the Capitol we went. I saw Craig sitting on the sidewalk along the Capitol - I was bummed that he was out. Hit special needs. I grabbed my long sleeve shirt. I didn't want to take a chance that I wouldn't get it back. I used it to mop up sweat until I saw Rob again and handed it off to him at Henry again. I stopped at the porta-potty again. I peed! AND it wasn't so brown! Jen and I caught up again and we stayed together. The commuter path was kinda cool because you could see the sunset - it didn't seem like it was so long since we had seen the sunrise. There also appeared to be a full moon. It looked full, I don't know if it was official though. We got to run through Camp Randall under lights. That was pretty neat. Jen's husband Jon was at the 17 mile aid station. I'm sure she was glad to see him.
On we kept going on the dark lakeshore path. Our run intervals were shortening. We started on the chicken broth around here - GOLD!! Once we got to the University Mall, Jen stopped at the porta-potty. I kept going. I was going to stop on the way back. Saw the crew near the turnaround again. Let them know I was doing okay. Anna passed me right before we started on the mall. Apparently, she was near pulling out the 1st time though. I stopped at the bathroom - kept on going. Didn't know if Jen was still behind me or if she was in front of me. I kept plugging along. I was running when we got on the path, but I couldn't see anything. So, I walked. I was still doing fine mentally. Just having fun. There were so many people walking together -- I was very inspired. I started increasing my run intervals. I knew at the 22 mile point, that it wasn't much longer. I also knew I could finish before 10:30, which was my goal. I saw Jen not far behind me when I was going back towards the motivational mile.
When I got to State St. - the crowds were SO cool. Several people would clap me on the back, shake my hand, high-five me and said -- "Just ahead and you are an Ironman!". I got pretty excited. I started running at the Square. I passed Laura in this last area. She got engaged at the finish line, and had I known, I might have stopped to watch it unfold in front of me. But - onward I went. I saw Wade at the corner by Starbucks. I ran over and tossed my water bottle at him. I didn't want to be carrying it across the finish line. He said the family was around the corner on the left. I ran passed and high-fived them - ran across to the right to my friends Marcie, Stacie, and Madelyn to high-five them. AND - entered the finisher chute. I had some momentum and I couldn't slow down. I passed 2 men in this area.. I wish I would have slowed down, but I was SO happy to be done! I didn't even hear Mike Reilly announce my name. Thankfully, Wade caught it and posted it for me. He said "From Stoughton, WI. Gwendolyn Regan. Good Job Gwendolyn. For the 1st time - You Are AN Ironman!". I got caught at the end by 2 people. They took my chip, got me a hat and a shirt. Got me the mylar sheet. Took me to the finisher's photo area. Out the other side where everyone was waiting. Except Patrick - he was apparently asleep on the street where they had been standing. Hugged everyone and walked up to Patrick and Ann. I was dizzy and I had to keep walking. Ann, Jen, and kids left. Rob and I started walking back towards finish. I was not feeling well. Stopped at porta-potty. Went a little. Now, I was really feeling bad. I was having a hard time standing upright. We started making our way to the medical tent. Anna was here - apparently. Ran into Dan who helped keep me upright. Got into the med tent where 2 people took me. They wanted me to sit - I was not going to be able to do that. They held me until I could get weighed. I lost 16 pounds. They took me back to a cot. Right next to KimK - who was STILL HAPPY!!! Awesome. In the med tent and still smiling. I was happy to be laying down. I was shivering and my lips and fingers were tingling. It took them FOREVER to find a vein. They would put the tourniquet on and pull it off. Put it on, slap my arms. Cut my bracelet to see if they could find one in my wrist. Finally got an IV started. I remember my HR was 60 and I thought this was good. Near normal -- DUH!! I just finished nearly 15 1/2 hours of exercise -- it probably shouldn't have been so low. My BP was 90/60. Again - normal! On the 2nd bag of fluids, they propped me up a little and brought me some chicken broth to try to warm me up. My fingertips were blue-ish. I guess. I wasn't looking. I had a massage therapist working on my calves. Felt good. At this point, they came over and told me that if I couldn't walk out on my own in the next 15 minutes, I was going to have to go to the hospital. The medical tent closes at midnight when the race closes. There was no way this was going to happen. I was still shivering. The Dr. came over and I decided to go to Meriter. They talked to Rob - he had gotten my bike and bags and would meet me at the ER. Got into the ambulance - no siren or lights :( As I was laying there, I realized that early in the season, I had seen a Ryan Brothers ambulance while I was leaving work and I saw that it said "The official ambulance of Ironman Wisconsin". I remember calling Rob telling him that I had seen it and hoped that it wasn't a sign that I would need a ride on race day. I was thankful that it was just dehydration and not a crash.
Got registered in the Er - they started a 3rd bag. Decided to change into dry clothes. I was SOOOO cold. And I had to go to the bathroom! Went, got changed, and immediately started feeling warmer. My nurse - Tim - also brought me pedialyte. That tasted good. I was getting tired of water. The PA had come in to see if I was ready to be discharged. He told me that my labs were all screwed up -- except my potassium was normal -- yay me for eating bananas! Got discharged, out to the car and home we went. We got home after 2am. I was up at 5 again for the morning. I even had to get up 1 other time to go to the bathroom! My mother-in-law stayed and was up at 5 also to drive back up to Kohler in time for work.
HUGE HUGE thank you to her! She broke her ribs a couple of weeks ago and I am sure the day really was tough on her. I was glad that she was able to take the kids home and we didn't have to worry about them. Granted, when I asked her it was so I could enjoy the evening and bask in my post Ironman bliss. Not so Rob and I could sit in the ER.
Thanks to all of my friends and family - Jen for making the trip also -- Kelly and the girls. Loved seeing you guys out there. Carol and Sally who shared some of my early training with me and of course - time in the pool. Grateful for you girls too. Heather and Jodi and all of the boys coming to watch -- so cute! Of course - Marcie and Stacie and Madelyn for being at the finish. AND for the flowers! Thanks. Wade - the constant cheerleader! Thanks to you for being everywhere that day and doing some of my training with me also. I know there were so many of you that were watching online, were at the various points on the course -- I appreciate all of your well-wishes and thoughts in my training and on race day. My co-workers who had to hear me complain of being tired throughout the summer or sore. Also - for the thoughts and cake and pictures etc when I came back to work. SO fun! Lynn for getting the ball rolling on my ankle issues in December and Dr. Rongstad and Lynn for doing a great job on my ankle surgery. Still holding up!
Lastly - to Rob Patrick and Melanie. My big hesitation with doing this in the 1st place was how much it would affect our family life. Having been through it 2 years ago when Rob trained, I knew that there would be some lost time with them. I think I did pretty well going around their schedules, but sometimes I am sure I was a bear to be around. Rob's advice and support was invaluable. Mel and Patrick were very supportive - for the most part. They all were my biggest cheerleaders. I love them more than words can say. People ask me if I would do it again. I'm glad I did it. It was SUCH an incredible experience. I don't think I will do it again. I will not say never - I was not going to do an Ironman when I finished Door County last year and 2 weeks later I was plotting my course to Ironman! BUT - I have a husband going for IM #2 next summer in Mont Tremblant. I have 2 kids who are growing way faster than I approved of. Just the other day, Patrick said "Mom - in 9 years, I am going to be gone". I didn't want to point out that it was actually only 8 years...
So - thanks to EVERYONE for your support. I met some great people training. I hope to see you all at various events. I have met some good friends because of triathlon. I love the sport. I am not going away from it - just ramping it down a little. I'm looking forward to doing a little more besides just swim, bike, run. Maybe some fall hiking, cross country skiing, yoga, weights.... But likely - you can still find me at the pool several mornings a week. Everyone - Enjoy the off-season! I know I will!
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Ironman Wisconsin The Saga: Part Three - THE BIKE -- 7:48.38
Ahhh....the bike. Red. (that's what Rob calls him). I worked pretty hard on the bike this year. I rode that course A LOT. I was going to keep my heartrate low and cadence high. I figured maybe 7 hours or so. Maybe a little longer, maybe a little less. It was fun going down the helix. There is a section where we take the John Nolen bike path to the Wingra Creek Path. At that point, there is no passing. If you haven't been on this path, it is quite narrow and winds around back to Olin Ave. It is pretty tricky on a normal day. You can easily crash - and there is a reson there is no passing. The no passing zone ends at the entrance to the Alliant Energy Center Parking lot (which we go through). Well - a dude passed me. It didn't affect me - he didn't crash into me etc. But BOY - the dude behind me sure didn't like it! He was yelling profanities at him. I thought - chill out - you have 111 miles to go (although in actuality, they had a last minute change to the bike course and it was actually 113 miles in all). I was amazed at how chill I was. My heartrate was higher than I cared for it to be. It stayed higher for a long time.
There were a lot of people out there. I knew going in that I was going to get passed by a ton. It was a lot of fun. The 1st aid station was on Whalen Rd. My plan was to drink water - gatorade if I needed to. I had Raw Rev bars and salt tabs. I took a salt tab every hour. I drank Gatorade for a different taste after the bars. The 1st aid station, I grabbed a bottle of water to refill my aero bottle with. When it was full, I went to throw it to the side and my aim was off. I hit a boy in the chest and water sprayed all over him. he put his arms out to the sides like WTF? (he was maybe 10-12?) I yelled "sorry" and a dude pulled up next to me cracking up. I still feel bad, but I can't help but laugh at it now. I did also take a banana. Had an uneventful rest of the 1st 2 legs. Rob pointed out to me that he broke the race into cities. To Verona. To Mt. Vernon. To Mt. Horeb. To Cross Plains. To Verona, etc.
I knew the family was planning on being around the 151 overpass going into Mt. Horeb. That was a couple of hours into the race. I atually got to them a little early. It was fun seeing them. I had no problems at the Mt. Horeb aid station. On to my favorite part of the course. The rolling hills and the Garfoot downhill. Even Cross Plains is okay. I stopped at that aid station in CP to use the porta-potty. Then off again.
The "3 bitches" were next. If you are not aware, there are 3 climbs before you get back to Verona that are tough. From all accounts, these were going to be lined with people. And were they ever! I thought it was going to annoy me, but it was hilarious! The costumes were outrageous! There were 2 people on the course holding signs in from of them saying they were naked. Totally looked real! People were yelling like you were the leader of the Tour de France! I had a great time on those hills.
Going into Verona, it gets pretty fast. I did see some friends in Verona - which was fun. It always was something to look forward to. Just past the 1/2 way point, we had our special needs bags. I had a PB&J sandwich waiting for me. I also knew I needed to re-apply sunscreen. Stopped at that point briefly. Took my sandwich and went off again. I ate 1/2 my sandwich on the next road. Just slowed down and took my time. I figured this would be a low point for me. It was in training. I don't care for the course from Verona to Mt. Horeb - especially the 2nd time. There are rolling hills, and it gets old. I was working on getting to Hwy 92, which goes into Mt. Horeb - and I really felt like I was working so hard. I was starting to wonder how I was going to make it through the course in time. There is a nice downhill on G with a right turn onto 92 where you go up a short uphill. It's nice to get some momentum to get you over that "bump". My back tire skidded through that corner. I was frustrated. Luckily, I did not crash, but I was feeling like I needed to get back in the game. There are 2 painted pigs right after you get on 92, and for the 1st time ever - I did not notice these pigs. I was not aware of what was around me. I was trying so hard to get my speed up. I was not able to go over 14 mph. I looked down in frustration. FLAT TIRE!! UGH!! I am surprised no other competitors pointed it out.
Now - I debated changing this tire all last week. Rob had to change my front tire a month or 2 ago because he needed the extended valve on my front tire. So - I obsessed about having a fresh tube on the back also. Decided not to when I got sick. I hadn't changed a tire in a long time, so that had worried me also. Well - not much I could do but change the damn thing. I had a hard time getting under the tire for awhile - I was cramping under my ribcage. Finally got it - pulled the old tube and got the new one in. I had a really hard time getting it under the tire - it was twisted, and I couldn't get it. A fellow competitor rolled up and offered to help me. He couldn't figure it out either. He pulled it out and figured out that it was MADE twisted. Grabbed my 2nd tube and got it in. He finished it for me. Benjamin was his name. I think he was 13xx. I made sure he took off before me. Then I got going again. I was moving along at a good clip. I hadn't turned my garmin off when I stopped. It took me at least 30 minutes to change this thing! Got to the family a little bit later - Rob ran next to me - told him my troubles -- I was out of tubes. He said not to worry about it and if it went flat again to see if I could get a tube from someone else. I had a spare one - in special needs back in Verona. UGH! Anyways - on I went.
From Mt. Horeb to Cross Plains aid stations, I drank 40 ounces of water and some gatorade. It started to hit me that perhaps I was now behind on nutrition and hydration. I stopped again to use the bathroom in CP - I couldn't go. Uh-Oh. I was still a little worried about my tire too. Just keep moving along and try to catch up on fluids. The hills were okay the 2nd time too. A little harder, but not all that noticeable. I did get stung by a bee in the middle of hills. He flew right into my left thigh. He was flopping there stuck in my leg. I have to say - that bugger still itches today!!! The Family was on the 3rd hill. Melanie yelled at me that it was a race and to get moving. I enjoyed seeing them again. Gave me a spark to get back to Verona. AND - What a relief Verona was! I knew I would be making the turn back to Madison - best left turn of the race (according to Rob). At least the bike ride.
Whalen was tough - I just wanted to be off my bike. Thank Goodness we had a TAILWIND!!! I did stop at the porta-potty on Whalen to see if I could go to the bathroom again. A drop - that was brown (yes, I looked when I wiped - I knew to be concerned if it was going towards red. Decided to keep drinking. I started to re-work my run strategy in my head. I think I was actually talking to myself under my breath. Crazy from the heat!!!
I was so happy to be on John Nolen again. I actually enjoyed going up the helix. I knew my friend Wade was catching bikes. He was standing waiting for me! My family was also on the Terrace looking down upon me. SO SO SO relieved to get my butt off of that seat! Grabbed my garmin and my fullest gatorade bottle and into the terrace I went
Grabbed my T2 bad - they said "straight out" and pointed me out the wrong door! The crowd parted and let me into the path to get to the changing room. Found a chair and set out to do a full change again. Legs were feeling crampy. I wanted to put my compression socks on, and I was not certain I could do it. Now - I don't mean this to sound bad. I SOOO much appreciated my volunteer, and I was in no hurry. But, she didn't really know what was what. That really didn't matter - I just needed more help this time. It took me longer than I had wanted it to and I knew I was going to be in some trouble physically with this next journey. She put those socks on me - she deserves HUGE kudos for that. If you have never done this - trust me - it's not easy to do on yourself even when you are dry and not cramping! There was a point when the volunteers at the entrance to the changing room frantically called for a medic. I do not know what happened. Finally - we had me all changed and ready to go. Walked out to start the run and saw some friends. Then I saw my family. I was ready to get the start of the end going. I was not in a bad place mentally at all. I put the bike behind me. This was going to be long, but I was still feeling like I could finish.
There were a lot of people out there. I knew going in that I was going to get passed by a ton. It was a lot of fun. The 1st aid station was on Whalen Rd. My plan was to drink water - gatorade if I needed to. I had Raw Rev bars and salt tabs. I took a salt tab every hour. I drank Gatorade for a different taste after the bars. The 1st aid station, I grabbed a bottle of water to refill my aero bottle with. When it was full, I went to throw it to the side and my aim was off. I hit a boy in the chest and water sprayed all over him. he put his arms out to the sides like WTF? (he was maybe 10-12?) I yelled "sorry" and a dude pulled up next to me cracking up. I still feel bad, but I can't help but laugh at it now. I did also take a banana. Had an uneventful rest of the 1st 2 legs. Rob pointed out to me that he broke the race into cities. To Verona. To Mt. Vernon. To Mt. Horeb. To Cross Plains. To Verona, etc.
I knew the family was planning on being around the 151 overpass going into Mt. Horeb. That was a couple of hours into the race. I atually got to them a little early. It was fun seeing them. I had no problems at the Mt. Horeb aid station. On to my favorite part of the course. The rolling hills and the Garfoot downhill. Even Cross Plains is okay. I stopped at that aid station in CP to use the porta-potty. Then off again.
The "3 bitches" were next. If you are not aware, there are 3 climbs before you get back to Verona that are tough. From all accounts, these were going to be lined with people. And were they ever! I thought it was going to annoy me, but it was hilarious! The costumes were outrageous! There were 2 people on the course holding signs in from of them saying they were naked. Totally looked real! People were yelling like you were the leader of the Tour de France! I had a great time on those hills.
Going into Verona, it gets pretty fast. I did see some friends in Verona - which was fun. It always was something to look forward to. Just past the 1/2 way point, we had our special needs bags. I had a PB&J sandwich waiting for me. I also knew I needed to re-apply sunscreen. Stopped at that point briefly. Took my sandwich and went off again. I ate 1/2 my sandwich on the next road. Just slowed down and took my time. I figured this would be a low point for me. It was in training. I don't care for the course from Verona to Mt. Horeb - especially the 2nd time. There are rolling hills, and it gets old. I was working on getting to Hwy 92, which goes into Mt. Horeb - and I really felt like I was working so hard. I was starting to wonder how I was going to make it through the course in time. There is a nice downhill on G with a right turn onto 92 where you go up a short uphill. It's nice to get some momentum to get you over that "bump". My back tire skidded through that corner. I was frustrated. Luckily, I did not crash, but I was feeling like I needed to get back in the game. There are 2 painted pigs right after you get on 92, and for the 1st time ever - I did not notice these pigs. I was not aware of what was around me. I was trying so hard to get my speed up. I was not able to go over 14 mph. I looked down in frustration. FLAT TIRE!! UGH!! I am surprised no other competitors pointed it out.
Now - I debated changing this tire all last week. Rob had to change my front tire a month or 2 ago because he needed the extended valve on my front tire. So - I obsessed about having a fresh tube on the back also. Decided not to when I got sick. I hadn't changed a tire in a long time, so that had worried me also. Well - not much I could do but change the damn thing. I had a hard time getting under the tire for awhile - I was cramping under my ribcage. Finally got it - pulled the old tube and got the new one in. I had a really hard time getting it under the tire - it was twisted, and I couldn't get it. A fellow competitor rolled up and offered to help me. He couldn't figure it out either. He pulled it out and figured out that it was MADE twisted. Grabbed my 2nd tube and got it in. He finished it for me. Benjamin was his name. I think he was 13xx. I made sure he took off before me. Then I got going again. I was moving along at a good clip. I hadn't turned my garmin off when I stopped. It took me at least 30 minutes to change this thing! Got to the family a little bit later - Rob ran next to me - told him my troubles -- I was out of tubes. He said not to worry about it and if it went flat again to see if I could get a tube from someone else. I had a spare one - in special needs back in Verona. UGH! Anyways - on I went.
From Mt. Horeb to Cross Plains aid stations, I drank 40 ounces of water and some gatorade. It started to hit me that perhaps I was now behind on nutrition and hydration. I stopped again to use the bathroom in CP - I couldn't go. Uh-Oh. I was still a little worried about my tire too. Just keep moving along and try to catch up on fluids. The hills were okay the 2nd time too. A little harder, but not all that noticeable. I did get stung by a bee in the middle of hills. He flew right into my left thigh. He was flopping there stuck in my leg. I have to say - that bugger still itches today!!! The Family was on the 3rd hill. Melanie yelled at me that it was a race and to get moving. I enjoyed seeing them again. Gave me a spark to get back to Verona. AND - What a relief Verona was! I knew I would be making the turn back to Madison - best left turn of the race (according to Rob). At least the bike ride.
Whalen was tough - I just wanted to be off my bike. Thank Goodness we had a TAILWIND!!! I did stop at the porta-potty on Whalen to see if I could go to the bathroom again. A drop - that was brown (yes, I looked when I wiped - I knew to be concerned if it was going towards red. Decided to keep drinking. I started to re-work my run strategy in my head. I think I was actually talking to myself under my breath. Crazy from the heat!!!
I was so happy to be on John Nolen again. I actually enjoyed going up the helix. I knew my friend Wade was catching bikes. He was standing waiting for me! My family was also on the Terrace looking down upon me. SO SO SO relieved to get my butt off of that seat! Grabbed my garmin and my fullest gatorade bottle and into the terrace I went
Grabbed my T2 bad - they said "straight out" and pointed me out the wrong door! The crowd parted and let me into the path to get to the changing room. Found a chair and set out to do a full change again. Legs were feeling crampy. I wanted to put my compression socks on, and I was not certain I could do it. Now - I don't mean this to sound bad. I SOOO much appreciated my volunteer, and I was in no hurry. But, she didn't really know what was what. That really didn't matter - I just needed more help this time. It took me longer than I had wanted it to and I knew I was going to be in some trouble physically with this next journey. She put those socks on me - she deserves HUGE kudos for that. If you have never done this - trust me - it's not easy to do on yourself even when you are dry and not cramping! There was a point when the volunteers at the entrance to the changing room frantically called for a medic. I do not know what happened. Finally - we had me all changed and ready to go. Walked out to start the run and saw some friends. Then I saw my family. I was ready to get the start of the end going. I was not in a bad place mentally at all. I put the bike behind me. This was going to be long, but I was still feeling like I could finish.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Ironman Wisconsin Saga: Part Two - THE SWIM -- 1:06.03
I did go up to the front - right of ski jump. There were A LOT of men out there. I was a little nervous as they seemed to be pretty aggresive. Several were doing some warmup strokes and just swimming right into you 10 minutes before the race! SO rude! There was a cluster of pink caps just a little closer to shore, so I moved over closer to them. They could have been aggressive too, but I felt better.
I could see the clock from where I was, so when I saw it say 9:45, I turned around and started to kinda get horizontal for the cannon blast. It just went off and everyone went. I swam with my head out for a little bit - without really thinking - but it was a good decision! I did not get kicked! It was crowded, but everyone was pretty much going straight. There was someone trying to swim over my bottom half, but I just kept going. I do kick when I swim, but I don't do anything purposeful. I tried to slow down my kicking a tad so as not to hurt the person, but I wasn't giving up either. They didn't really feel like they were faster than me. They gave up or moved on to someone else. It wasn't long before there was no one around me. Either I outswam everyone I started with - or they moved to the buoy line and I did not. I decided to stay wide through the 1st turn. This worked out perfect for me. I had no contact at all.
After the 1st turn, I moved in a little. I was near people, but still no contact. The next turn I took wide as well and was fine. I did try to move in on the backside. This was fine, but there were a lot of people slower than me and it seemed I was doing a lot of maneuvering around people to pass. So - I made my way back out a little bit, but not as far as I started. This again was fine.
The 2nd loop, I did swim closer to the buoys. It was starting to thin out a little. I did have more contact here - I even took a slight foot to face (although it was more of a startle than a full on kick). Some arm collisions, but that was mostly it. My legs were cramping a little, so I stopped kicking. I also concentrated on trying to draft to conserve some energy. This worked well.
When I made the final turn towards shore, I started kicking again and turning over my stroke a little faster. This felt good. I did not push the swim as hard as I could have, but I was okay with it. In the general scheme of things, I knew I wasn't going to be fast enough to be the 1st woman age-grouper out of the water (the 1st female and male swim times won a $2000 prize package from TYR swimming - pros were not included). I also didn't think the extra effort was worth the couple of minutes I would have gained.
Getting out of the water was great! I ran to the strippers - got my suit off - saw my family and up the helix I went! I thought the helix would suck. It is a long run to the transition room. But it was so fun running past the crowds!
I got my bag right away - ran out to the changing room and a volunteer grabbed me and had her hand on my back guiding me to a chair on an end. I came out of the water seconds ahead of my friend Elise, and we didn't see each other! How can that be??? I did have my back to the rest of transition and you are so focused on what you are doing and not forgetting anything! I'm sure she made it out of T1 before me. I stopped to pee. I also did a full change. My volunteer rocked! It was like she was reading my mind - knew what I wanted before I asked. Helped put my sports bra on - opened my butt butter -- just everything! The sunscreen applicators were not as generous as I had hoped. I think that also ended up hurting me in my hydration. I did run in my shoes all the way down the transition to my bike - which was near the bike out on the opposite end of the terrace. I didn't want any rocks stuck in my shoes. This wasn't bad at all. I don't know why people are bothered by it actually. I was feeling good and ready for the bike. I was having a lot of fun at this point.
I could see the clock from where I was, so when I saw it say 9:45, I turned around and started to kinda get horizontal for the cannon blast. It just went off and everyone went. I swam with my head out for a little bit - without really thinking - but it was a good decision! I did not get kicked! It was crowded, but everyone was pretty much going straight. There was someone trying to swim over my bottom half, but I just kept going. I do kick when I swim, but I don't do anything purposeful. I tried to slow down my kicking a tad so as not to hurt the person, but I wasn't giving up either. They didn't really feel like they were faster than me. They gave up or moved on to someone else. It wasn't long before there was no one around me. Either I outswam everyone I started with - or they moved to the buoy line and I did not. I decided to stay wide through the 1st turn. This worked out perfect for me. I had no contact at all.
After the 1st turn, I moved in a little. I was near people, but still no contact. The next turn I took wide as well and was fine. I did try to move in on the backside. This was fine, but there were a lot of people slower than me and it seemed I was doing a lot of maneuvering around people to pass. So - I made my way back out a little bit, but not as far as I started. This again was fine.
The 2nd loop, I did swim closer to the buoys. It was starting to thin out a little. I did have more contact here - I even took a slight foot to face (although it was more of a startle than a full on kick). Some arm collisions, but that was mostly it. My legs were cramping a little, so I stopped kicking. I also concentrated on trying to draft to conserve some energy. This worked well.
When I made the final turn towards shore, I started kicking again and turning over my stroke a little faster. This felt good. I did not push the swim as hard as I could have, but I was okay with it. In the general scheme of things, I knew I wasn't going to be fast enough to be the 1st woman age-grouper out of the water (the 1st female and male swim times won a $2000 prize package from TYR swimming - pros were not included). I also didn't think the extra effort was worth the couple of minutes I would have gained.
Getting out of the water was great! I ran to the strippers - got my suit off - saw my family and up the helix I went! I thought the helix would suck. It is a long run to the transition room. But it was so fun running past the crowds!
I got my bag right away - ran out to the changing room and a volunteer grabbed me and had her hand on my back guiding me to a chair on an end. I came out of the water seconds ahead of my friend Elise, and we didn't see each other! How can that be??? I did have my back to the rest of transition and you are so focused on what you are doing and not forgetting anything! I'm sure she made it out of T1 before me. I stopped to pee. I also did a full change. My volunteer rocked! It was like she was reading my mind - knew what I wanted before I asked. Helped put my sports bra on - opened my butt butter -- just everything! The sunscreen applicators were not as generous as I had hoped. I think that also ended up hurting me in my hydration. I did run in my shoes all the way down the transition to my bike - which was near the bike out on the opposite end of the terrace. I didn't want any rocks stuck in my shoes. This wasn't bad at all. I don't know why people are bothered by it actually. I was feeling good and ready for the bike. I was having a lot of fun at this point.
Ironman Wisconsin: The Saga. Part 1 Pre-Event
Ahhh. Where to start? I really wanted to stay in the moment so that I could remember every aspect of what was in my head and who was around me. I knew that it was going to be quite an experience like no other (besides childbirth) and I wanted to remember all of it. When I last posted, I had a cold. It was feeling MUCH better by race day, so that was a relief. Thanks to Deanna for the supplement - it may have helped!
I worked Thursday (I leave at 2:30) - then went to check-in. Robert was downtown for work so he met me and went along. Really no line to speak of, and just flowed along. Eventually to the store where I bought a visor and the Mdot shirt with all of our names on it.
Friday, I went up to swim a little. Wanted to make sure the water was still okay for my sleeveless wetsuit. Met Rob for lunch, and then I went home for awhile. Went to the athlete dinner. Food was not the greatest, but enjoyed the evening.
Saturday, went to Patrick's football game. Really tried to avoid getting stung by a bee (foreshadowing). They were all over! Afterwards, he went with a friend (thanks Mark - he was stressing me out!) Then Mel, Rob, and I went up to drop my bike/bags and they made signs. Stopped at the store on the way home - Rob was making dinner (he is a much better cook than I)! Just a really low key day. Melanie and I painted nails, my mother-in-law arrived. Went to bed around 8? Listened to music to fall asleep. Slept about 7 hours or so. Woke up feeling good. Made 2 eggs, 2 pieces of PB toast, and had a banana. Drank water and gatorade in the car and before the event. Went to pick up Anna.
We parked near special needs. There was a drunk girl in high heels stumbling past. I think she was a little confused as to what was going on. She was alone (hello? stupid!) - it was kinda funny to see. Dropped our bags and made our way to transition. I was glad to be early this time (Anna is super freaky about getting to transition early - I usually am not). I borrowed someone's bike pump who had a flat, so she wasn't using it at the time. Then Anna and I chilled in the Terrace for awhile. Decided to go outside. Tried the bathroom and port-a-potty -- "things" were not moving! NEVER has happened before! That was the only thing I was nervous about! I didn't want to have an "urge" in the water!! Got in the water early to figure out where I wanted to start. Most people who know my swimming thought I should go to the front. I'm sure if you have read my posts before you know that I was worried about contact and panicking. I did take a pill before the start - just in case. Overall, I was MUCH less nervous than any other race. I think I knew it wasn't worth the energy to get worked up about something I couldn't control until I was in the moment. What a rocking time this started out to be. Stay tuned for part 2....
I worked Thursday (I leave at 2:30) - then went to check-in. Robert was downtown for work so he met me and went along. Really no line to speak of, and just flowed along. Eventually to the store where I bought a visor and the Mdot shirt with all of our names on it.
Friday, I went up to swim a little. Wanted to make sure the water was still okay for my sleeveless wetsuit. Met Rob for lunch, and then I went home for awhile. Went to the athlete dinner. Food was not the greatest, but enjoyed the evening.
Saturday, went to Patrick's football game. Really tried to avoid getting stung by a bee (foreshadowing). They were all over! Afterwards, he went with a friend (thanks Mark - he was stressing me out!) Then Mel, Rob, and I went up to drop my bike/bags and they made signs. Stopped at the store on the way home - Rob was making dinner (he is a much better cook than I)! Just a really low key day. Melanie and I painted nails, my mother-in-law arrived. Went to bed around 8? Listened to music to fall asleep. Slept about 7 hours or so. Woke up feeling good. Made 2 eggs, 2 pieces of PB toast, and had a banana. Drank water and gatorade in the car and before the event. Went to pick up Anna.
We parked near special needs. There was a drunk girl in high heels stumbling past. I think she was a little confused as to what was going on. She was alone (hello? stupid!) - it was kinda funny to see. Dropped our bags and made our way to transition. I was glad to be early this time (Anna is super freaky about getting to transition early - I usually am not). I borrowed someone's bike pump who had a flat, so she wasn't using it at the time. Then Anna and I chilled in the Terrace for awhile. Decided to go outside. Tried the bathroom and port-a-potty -- "things" were not moving! NEVER has happened before! That was the only thing I was nervous about! I didn't want to have an "urge" in the water!! Got in the water early to figure out where I wanted to start. Most people who know my swimming thought I should go to the front. I'm sure if you have read my posts before you know that I was worried about contact and panicking. I did take a pill before the start - just in case. Overall, I was MUCH less nervous than any other race. I think I knew it wasn't worth the energy to get worked up about something I couldn't control until I was in the moment. What a rocking time this started out to be. Stay tuned for part 2....
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
The Unexpected
I said it -- I am expecting to expect the unexpected. I did not expect to get a cold race week. On my desk right now I have: 1 bottle of mucinex, 1 bottle of airborne, 1 bottle of Gaia Quick Defense herbal blend, Bolthouse Farms C-Boost Fruit Smoothie, Congestion & Sinus Tea, Water, and 1 1/2 pounds of fruit. I am doing all I can to kick it to the curb quick. I am a little bummed. I was getting so excited for the weather forecast and to just get to it. I did a sinus cleanse this morning. I went to bed early. I am getting a massage tonight. I work tomorrow yet and will spend Friday in bed, if necessary. I do have to say it feels more in the healing phase than the beginning phase (I hope I didn't just jinx myself). My patients are cooperating and have been no-showing so I can relax. That's not normally something I hope for. In the end, race day will come no matter what shape I am in and being an amateur - I will not pull out. I will toe that line, and I will execute my plan. I will not look at the time at all, cuz in the end - if I finish - I will be ecstatic. I can't do anything different to change the circumstances - and it is a cold, not a torn/broken/mangled injury. I haven't been sick since last fall, so I haven't trained in this. BUT - I've run with colds before. I've swam with colds before. I'll be okay. I can still hope that it's gone by Sunday though.....
Saturday, September 3, 2011
THE PLAN
The Swim: I did the open water race in 1 hr. 10 minutes, so I should be less than that. It measured longer than it was supposed to be and I swam horribly off-course. If my time is worse - I either got beat up in the water or had a panic attack.
I plan on changing in transition both times - I figure if I am going to be exercising for HOURS - I want to start the bike and run in dry clothes. I don't want to putz in there, but don't expect real fast times either.
The BIKE: I will probably be between 6:45 and 8:00 hours. Depends on wind and how much I try to stay with the 1500+ people or so that pass me. I am not a fast biker, and I am okay with that. I am competitive though, so I sometimes push harder than necessary just to try to keep up. I know that pushing hard on the bike means I will pay for it on the run. My plan is to watch my heartrate and keep my legs spinning. I don't want to worry about my time so much - besides watching that I am eating and drinking enough.
The RUN: this ALL depends on the temperature/humidity and how much I blew up the bike. The slower the bike - hopefully, the better my run. A dream race would be to hold about a 10 minute per mile pace. I plan on walking the aid stations. I can run faster, but I don't think that's a good plan after all of those bike miles. I will again watch my heartrate.
Overall time - if I finish at 7:30 or earlier -- I had an absolutely lights out dream race. Everything went WAY better than planned. I know better than to expect this though. I'm not even aiming for it. I think that if everything goes so-so, I should be done by 10:30. I should think I would finish in the middle of that 3 hour range. Honestly - I will be okay with finishing at 16:59 -- the course closes at midnight (17 hours). I might be disappointed, but if I am that late, something really broke down and I will be happy to crawl across.
This truly has been quite the experience. I don't remember the early weeks - it seems I have been completely consumed by training/racing/planning for the past 2 months. I think I am at a point that I am ready. Not really nervous, just want it to be here. I'm sure that will change come Thursday when I go down to "athlete check-in". I am still obsessing. Watching the weather -- which right now by the way would be a PERFECT race day! Keep your fingers crossed for me! I have trained in hot and humid this summer - pretty much all summer. I have trained in the rain. I started in the cold months of winter. I had surgery on my ankle. I swear I did a race in tornado force winds early in the season. I am ready for what the race gives me. I also know that there is going to be things that I am not expecting. I am trying to "expect the unexpected". I am extremely blessed to have had so much support this past year. I think I did a pretty good job of balancing the training around the kids. Just a couple of days where I heard - "Mom - are you going to be gone ALL DAY?" I especially have to thank Rob for his support and guidance. It helped that he had done it before. The couple of times we rode together were fun - except the time he kept riding circles around me. I look forward to trying to do that more next year as he trains for Ironman Mont Tremblant (IMMT). His blog is: chasingmailboxes.blogspot.com
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Ironman # 618
So - I guess it's for real. I have a bib # - they didn't leave me off the list. Made me a little nervous at first, but I've calmed down. I am still not completely firm on what I am wearing for the run, which has me a little nervous. I just feel like I need an extra pocket. I know that I should expect the unexpected, so I am wanting to carry a little bit of extras in case I can't eat off of the course. I don't want to have to wait until a 1/2 marathon is over before I get to my special needs bag. I want to have my own little carry along special needs.
I slept great last night and I am hoping for a good last long run this afternoon after work. I am going to run on the course. I know it but it will be nice to re-familiarize myself before race day. I think I am going to just to my planned ride for Saturday rather than go longer. I'm just not sure my body needs it. This past weekend was pretty epic in its own right, so I am going to leave well enough alone.
I scheduled my pre-race massage for 4 days prior. I scheduled my hair appointments for 3 days after. Ordered my race fuel. I have to get another replacement tube and some CO2 cartridges. And then I just have to finalize the outfits and finish up these last 2 weeks. I am to the point that I would like the race here so I can stop obsessing about it.
I slept great last night and I am hoping for a good last long run this afternoon after work. I am going to run on the course. I know it but it will be nice to re-familiarize myself before race day. I think I am going to just to my planned ride for Saturday rather than go longer. I'm just not sure my body needs it. This past weekend was pretty epic in its own right, so I am going to leave well enough alone.
I scheduled my pre-race massage for 4 days prior. I scheduled my hair appointments for 3 days after. Ordered my race fuel. I have to get another replacement tube and some CO2 cartridges. And then I just have to finalize the outfits and finish up these last 2 weeks. I am to the point that I would like the race here so I can stop obsessing about it.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Final BIG Workout Day - sort of....
Well, if nothing else, this weekend taught me to expect the unexpected. I had planned to swim the Madison Open Water Swim and then do the full Ironman bike ride. It's a perfect way to end the big training and enter taper. In theory.
Saturday morning, I woke up and had a 1/2 pb&j sandwich and a banana. Ominous looking clouds out on the western horizon. I was pretty much ready to go, so off I went. Parked at the Monona Terrace at about 6:45. Race was to start at 8:30 - my wave at 8:40. Went to get my packet and head back to the car as it was windy, cold, and raining. I ran into Jen and Jon and I stuck with them. We then ran into Laura and Chris. Stood on the helix for awhile protected from the rain. Decided to get the wetsuit 1/2 on for warmth. They then came up and announced that they were going to delay the start until 9:45 or so. The wind blew the buoys completely off course. The weather cleared like they predicted, they reset the buoys (although it was long) and we got our pre-race speech. The national championship wave went off 1st. They let us in the water right after and we got to tread water for 10 minutes. There were 271 wetsuited athletes doing the full 2.4 mile swim on the exact Ironman course. The non-wetsuited athletes started with us, although they were let in after us. I started in the front. I intended to start wide right, but I kept moving to get a little clearer area and ended up closer to the ski jump than I had planned. I could see the clock, so I knew when we were down to 10 seconds, so I kinda went horizontal until the airhorn and off I went.
I never really got clobbered. It was certainly crowded. My goggles fogged up nicely and I couldn't see much. I had to sorta tread/breastroke a couple of times to re-adjust my position. I tried to stay mindful of the people around me. I didn't want to hurt anyone. I did try to get off to the right because I really needed to fix the foggy goggle situation. I did so when I felt I had some clear water. I was pretty wide right at this point. If possible, I got even wider on the back 1/2! It was pretty choppy on the back stretch, so I stopped sighting as much. BIG mistake!! I would breathe left a few times to see if there were people near me on that side and I noticed red buoys in the distance. I popped up and saw just how far away I was. I swear I added at least 5 minutes to that swim! My 2nd loop was MUCH better! I did get hit in the goggles once, but it wasn't that bad. Definitely had some arm and leg collisions, but nothing serious. My calves were cramping somewhat, so I did do this without kicking too much. I did start kicking on the last leg in to the shore. Overall time was 1:10 -- not bad. I had hoped to be faster, but I will take it. Considering I finished 29th overall in my division, I think it cemented my feelings of starting in front on race day.
The delay meant starting the bike near noon. I am very thankful that Jen waited for me. She did the 1.2 mile swim and finished before me. I feel bad that she also had a crappy day, and I hope I didn't contribute to that. We started out slow, which was good for my legs. BUT - I did not start eating the way I needed to. I think I need to have a bottle of liquid nutrition to occasionally sip also in addition to water. I KNOW I need water + solid food, but I obviously am not getting enough calories in. I had 5 mini lara bars on Saturday. I had some Raw Rev bars yesterday and I almost think they are easier to eat. I might have to go search them out for race day. Not as grainy/dense. Rob met us near Mt. Horeb to join us for a loop. It was supposed to be our 2nd loop, but at least we had some other company. I felt really pretty strong on the "3 bitches". I'm not the fastest climber, but that doesn't matter to me. I want to come off feeling like I did not trash my legs and that I am able to run. When we got back to Verona for the 2nd loop, Jen stopped at Fireman's Park to re-assess her situation with her husband and sent Rob and I onward. Not long after this, Rob was mentioning that he didn't want to climb hills anymore. He then says "I have a flat tire". I chuckled. I thought his comment meant he FELT like he had a flat tire as we were climbing a hill at the time. He had to say again "I have a flat tire". FOR REAL! So, he changes it - rather quickly actually. We push onward. 10 minutes later - "I have another flat tire". UGH! It was in no way his fault - and actually was a good lesson for me - even though it wasn't my bike. BUT - I was already dealing with worrying about the time, hungry and wanting my "special needs" sandwich that was in his truck. We didn't have another tube with an extended stem. Just as I was realizing that I was going to have to get the truck and pick him up, someone pulled up that had one and gave it to us. Problem solved - onward we went. We had run into Whizzzz at this point and played leap-frog with her and her friend Trudy.
Once to Mt. Horeb, we stopped at the truck. As I was trying to eat my sandwich I was watching Laura and Trudy "whiz" by and thinking that I should hurry and catch up to them. It looked like rain was coming and I didn't want to be on my own. It was 5:30 or maybe a little later. Rob had to get the babysitter home. He was already late. He then suggests that perhaps I consider packing it in. After some discussion - I agreed. Hopped in the truck and off we went. We showered grabbed the kids and had a lovely dinner at Brocach on the square as I had to go back to the Terrace to get my car.
PLAN B - I got up early Sunday - got on the bike again and rode out to Verona for a loop. Mentally, I was already deciding where Rob would rescue me. All the way to Mt. Horeb. I love the section after that, so I was okay into Cross Plains, but feeling fatigued. I stopped at the BP to get more water, some gatorade, and I decided to try some coke. Thought the caffeine kick might help. I also bought a cup of watermelon. WOW! The coke did wonders for me. I felt good for the rest of the ride. I was not sure about going home from Verona as it gets hilly going to Stoughton. Going back to the Terrace is MUCH flatter. BUT - I stuck it out. Rob was a BIG help and did all of the party prep - including baking the cake. We celebrated Patrick's birthday 1 month late with our family. I made it there before our sister's did! Yay me!
Taper is supposed to begin today. I am proceeding except I am going to ride the whole course on Saturday. I need to make sure my nutrition is spot on for race day. I have yet to do a century, and I think I would feel better if I did. Granted - I rode 150 miles in a 24 hour period this weekend, I still think it would do me good mentally.
Long post I am sure, but needed to sort it out.
Saturday morning, I woke up and had a 1/2 pb&j sandwich and a banana. Ominous looking clouds out on the western horizon. I was pretty much ready to go, so off I went. Parked at the Monona Terrace at about 6:45. Race was to start at 8:30 - my wave at 8:40. Went to get my packet and head back to the car as it was windy, cold, and raining. I ran into Jen and Jon and I stuck with them. We then ran into Laura and Chris. Stood on the helix for awhile protected from the rain. Decided to get the wetsuit 1/2 on for warmth. They then came up and announced that they were going to delay the start until 9:45 or so. The wind blew the buoys completely off course. The weather cleared like they predicted, they reset the buoys (although it was long) and we got our pre-race speech. The national championship wave went off 1st. They let us in the water right after and we got to tread water for 10 minutes. There were 271 wetsuited athletes doing the full 2.4 mile swim on the exact Ironman course. The non-wetsuited athletes started with us, although they were let in after us. I started in the front. I intended to start wide right, but I kept moving to get a little clearer area and ended up closer to the ski jump than I had planned. I could see the clock, so I knew when we were down to 10 seconds, so I kinda went horizontal until the airhorn and off I went.
I never really got clobbered. It was certainly crowded. My goggles fogged up nicely and I couldn't see much. I had to sorta tread/breastroke a couple of times to re-adjust my position. I tried to stay mindful of the people around me. I didn't want to hurt anyone. I did try to get off to the right because I really needed to fix the foggy goggle situation. I did so when I felt I had some clear water. I was pretty wide right at this point. If possible, I got even wider on the back 1/2! It was pretty choppy on the back stretch, so I stopped sighting as much. BIG mistake!! I would breathe left a few times to see if there were people near me on that side and I noticed red buoys in the distance. I popped up and saw just how far away I was. I swear I added at least 5 minutes to that swim! My 2nd loop was MUCH better! I did get hit in the goggles once, but it wasn't that bad. Definitely had some arm and leg collisions, but nothing serious. My calves were cramping somewhat, so I did do this without kicking too much. I did start kicking on the last leg in to the shore. Overall time was 1:10 -- not bad. I had hoped to be faster, but I will take it. Considering I finished 29th overall in my division, I think it cemented my feelings of starting in front on race day.
The delay meant starting the bike near noon. I am very thankful that Jen waited for me. She did the 1.2 mile swim and finished before me. I feel bad that she also had a crappy day, and I hope I didn't contribute to that. We started out slow, which was good for my legs. BUT - I did not start eating the way I needed to. I think I need to have a bottle of liquid nutrition to occasionally sip also in addition to water. I KNOW I need water + solid food, but I obviously am not getting enough calories in. I had 5 mini lara bars on Saturday. I had some Raw Rev bars yesterday and I almost think they are easier to eat. I might have to go search them out for race day. Not as grainy/dense. Rob met us near Mt. Horeb to join us for a loop. It was supposed to be our 2nd loop, but at least we had some other company. I felt really pretty strong on the "3 bitches". I'm not the fastest climber, but that doesn't matter to me. I want to come off feeling like I did not trash my legs and that I am able to run. When we got back to Verona for the 2nd loop, Jen stopped at Fireman's Park to re-assess her situation with her husband and sent Rob and I onward. Not long after this, Rob was mentioning that he didn't want to climb hills anymore. He then says "I have a flat tire". I chuckled. I thought his comment meant he FELT like he had a flat tire as we were climbing a hill at the time. He had to say again "I have a flat tire". FOR REAL! So, he changes it - rather quickly actually. We push onward. 10 minutes later - "I have another flat tire". UGH! It was in no way his fault - and actually was a good lesson for me - even though it wasn't my bike. BUT - I was already dealing with worrying about the time, hungry and wanting my "special needs" sandwich that was in his truck. We didn't have another tube with an extended stem. Just as I was realizing that I was going to have to get the truck and pick him up, someone pulled up that had one and gave it to us. Problem solved - onward we went. We had run into Whizzzz at this point and played leap-frog with her and her friend Trudy.
Once to Mt. Horeb, we stopped at the truck. As I was trying to eat my sandwich I was watching Laura and Trudy "whiz" by and thinking that I should hurry and catch up to them. It looked like rain was coming and I didn't want to be on my own. It was 5:30 or maybe a little later. Rob had to get the babysitter home. He was already late. He then suggests that perhaps I consider packing it in. After some discussion - I agreed. Hopped in the truck and off we went. We showered grabbed the kids and had a lovely dinner at Brocach on the square as I had to go back to the Terrace to get my car.
PLAN B - I got up early Sunday - got on the bike again and rode out to Verona for a loop. Mentally, I was already deciding where Rob would rescue me. All the way to Mt. Horeb. I love the section after that, so I was okay into Cross Plains, but feeling fatigued. I stopped at the BP to get more water, some gatorade, and I decided to try some coke. Thought the caffeine kick might help. I also bought a cup of watermelon. WOW! The coke did wonders for me. I felt good for the rest of the ride. I was not sure about going home from Verona as it gets hilly going to Stoughton. Going back to the Terrace is MUCH flatter. BUT - I stuck it out. Rob was a BIG help and did all of the party prep - including baking the cake. We celebrated Patrick's birthday 1 month late with our family. I made it there before our sister's did! Yay me!
Taper is supposed to begin today. I am proceeding except I am going to ride the whole course on Saturday. I need to make sure my nutrition is spot on for race day. I have yet to do a century, and I think I would feel better if I did. Granted - I rode 150 miles in a 24 hour period this weekend, I still think it would do me good mentally.
Long post I am sure, but needed to sort it out.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
40....
Hmm. Feels like just another day. I remember when my mom turned 40. She got a bunch of stuff regarding being over the hill - a coffee mug and balloons. I remembering think "Wow. That is old". Typically people see this as middle-age. Your life is half over. Funny - my mom's life was more than 1/2 over. I guess 30 was mid-life for her. I was 7, Jen was 5 and Nick was a newborn at her 1/2 way point. We never know what is around the corner. I always wonder if my mom would have done anything different had she known her life was going to end at almost 60. Would she have quit smoking - would it have mattered? We make conscious choices all of the time. I was brought up with a lot of bad choices around me. How did I choose an athletic lifestyle? I'd like to think that my kids are seeing us choose athletic endeavors even at "middle-age" and that they will get bitten by the healthy bug. I'm not a gestapo when it comes to their diets. They play video games and watch stupid cartoons that I swear will make you a little less smart. But yesterday, they also rode their bikes with me as I ran an hour. Mel did complain about her butt hurting, but they did it. They both enjoyed the kids triathlon they did last month. We try to involve them in this lifestyle and I think that they enjoy it. I'm enjoying my training, but I am looking forward to being a little less rigid. I swear also that some days my legs are 80 not 40. I am so blessed to have the things that I have. To be able to train for this event. To have the body to be able to do this. I have many blessings. My husband, my kids, my family, my friends. All of this is a gift. Thank you everyone of you for supporting me in this journey of seeing what my body can do. At 40. Here's to 40 more...maybe :)
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Weekend Rumblings
So - I just purchased a sleeveless wetsuit. I think this will help me feel better in the water. My stroke changes so much in my full sleeve that my arms actually get tired. Now - we just need to keep the water temp in the 60's for Ironman. I guess right now it is not wetsuit legal at all!
I did 2 laps of the IMOO loop today for the 1st time. It was about 5:25. Not too bad. I was pretty sore though! I did like eating regular foods better than doing all liquid nutrition. The run off of the bike felt good - just hot and my legs are still sore from all of the cramps I had this week. I just have to be better about the timing of my food. I didn't really watch the time - just ate when I felt like it. I did take 2 salt tabs every hour, but I am considering taking more than that. I was cramping pretty bad once I was home. A bottle of nuun really helps with this - leads me to believe I need more salt! I hope that there is music out there on race day (hint to spectators - bring a radio!) I have had this slow country song stuck in my head for the last 3 days. When I wasn't chatting with people - it was on in my head. It's gotta go! I need fast stuff!
I think everything is coming together pretty nicely but I feel like I am doing way less than everyone else as far as total volume per week. I am excited to be getting a sports massage this week and hope to stick to my plan these last 3 weeks of peak training - well, and into taper.
I did 2 laps of the IMOO loop today for the 1st time. It was about 5:25. Not too bad. I was pretty sore though! I did like eating regular foods better than doing all liquid nutrition. The run off of the bike felt good - just hot and my legs are still sore from all of the cramps I had this week. I just have to be better about the timing of my food. I didn't really watch the time - just ate when I felt like it. I did take 2 salt tabs every hour, but I am considering taking more than that. I was cramping pretty bad once I was home. A bottle of nuun really helps with this - leads me to believe I need more salt! I hope that there is music out there on race day (hint to spectators - bring a radio!) I have had this slow country song stuck in my head for the last 3 days. When I wasn't chatting with people - it was on in my head. It's gotta go! I need fast stuff!
I think everything is coming together pretty nicely but I feel like I am doing way less than everyone else as far as total volume per week. I am excited to be getting a sports massage this week and hope to stick to my plan these last 3 weeks of peak training - well, and into taper.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Swimming Issues
So, another Aquathon last night - more issues. I really do not believe I was in a panic attack. I was comfortable and swimming well. After the 1st turn, I decided to draft a little. This girl and I were pretty evenly matched, so I dropped back a little. I needed to unlatch my wetsuit anyways, as I was quite warm. As I was swimming, I started wheezing. I did some breastroke and coughed up some junk and went again. I was fine for a few minutes and I had to cough again. And - so it went the rest of the way in. Of course my whole run was ruined now. I do have an inhaler, but I almost NEVER need it. In fact - I think the only time I have used it in the last several years was at Aquathon! I keep it in my purse - which was in the car. I actually considered going there 1st out of transition, but by the time it kicked it I was better off just doing a run/walk thing. I bought new shoes before the race so I wanted to try to fix my crappy form anyways. I was surprised to find that I was 81/89 last night. How terribly sad...
When everything goes to hell, I have a really hard time pulling out of the mental funk. I thought I handled Door County very well, I couldn't do anything about the weather. That swim was longer, more contact, and choppy. NO problems. I swam very well (besides poor sighting). The last aquathon (3 weeks ago) - I did not have problems. My tongue was tingly, but I didn't have the wheezing. I'm just not sure what to do. If it is in fact panicky feelings that I am not recognizing, I don't know what to do when IMOO gets here. I'm not sure more open water practice really will help as I can swim in open water by myself forever. Even with my wetsuit. I do prefer it unlatched in back. I think I will just go out that way for the rest of the season. There is a small part of me that wants to go without the wetsuit, but that is probably foolish for that distance. I have 1 more aquathon and the madison open water swim scheduled. I might try a couple of these swim clinics that are offered in the next couple of weeks. Maybe Lake Monona is better quality wise compared to Mendota, although I doubt it.
When everything goes to hell, I have a really hard time pulling out of the mental funk. I thought I handled Door County very well, I couldn't do anything about the weather. That swim was longer, more contact, and choppy. NO problems. I swam very well (besides poor sighting). The last aquathon (3 weeks ago) - I did not have problems. My tongue was tingly, but I didn't have the wheezing. I'm just not sure what to do. If it is in fact panicky feelings that I am not recognizing, I don't know what to do when IMOO gets here. I'm not sure more open water practice really will help as I can swim in open water by myself forever. Even with my wetsuit. I do prefer it unlatched in back. I think I will just go out that way for the rest of the season. There is a small part of me that wants to go without the wetsuit, but that is probably foolish for that distance. I have 1 more aquathon and the madison open water swim scheduled. I might try a couple of these swim clinics that are offered in the next couple of weeks. Maybe Lake Monona is better quality wise compared to Mendota, although I doubt it.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Door County 1/2 Ironman Suffer-fest
Well, my days of "perfect" race conditions came to a SCREEEECHING halt this weekend. BUT - I needed it. We are in the middle of some insanely hot weather here in Wisconsin. Earlier in the week, I was hopeful that Door County would remain cooler than the Madison area. Then we get the "Heat Advisory Warning" email from the race director. I was most worried about the run. Can't control the weather though, so we were just going to have to see how it went.
Got up there Friday afternoon. Set up camp at Potawatomi State Park. Went up to get my packet, and then just chilled around the fire. The next morning, we went up to watch the sprint. Wade was entered in this event. He looked good! While we were watching for him to come in off of the bike, we saw a spectacular crash. I don't know what the dude did, but he took out one of the 8 -10 foot metal barriers, flipped over, and 2 spectators were injured as well. I went over to see if they needed assistance before medical arrived - and I missed Wade. Lots of folks helping, so we walked over to the run out to see Wade leave on the run. Saw him finish and chatted a bit with them. Then we stopped at the Y in Sturgeon Bay and signed both kids up for the kids tri later in the afternoon. Went back to the campsite for lunch and relaxation. On the way back to Sturgeon Bay for the kids tri, a bird flew into my bike on top of the car! Dead bird, blood, feathers and bits everywhere! YUCK!
The kids did their triathlon. Patrick's group was 1st --- ages 8-10. He was 21st overall. He did very well on the swim! I was so impressed. He could use a new bike - I think that might have helped. Mel was in the 4-7 age group and was the 6th girl. She just took off in the water. It was SOOO cute!
Sunday, I woke up feeling rested. Got ready to go and Anna and I drove to the race site together. Got transition set up. Saw Jen - who I met at HHH - right next to me! Ran into my sister's friend Suzi. Fun seeing familiar faces. I got my wetsuit on with about 30 minutes before my wave started (I was wave 15/16). The water was 69 - slightly chilly, but it felt good. There was a pretty good chop in the water. When we were allowed to go to the start, several women tried to butt in my area. These older women weren't as friendly as my 35-39's from last year! Air horn went off - I took off...in the wrong direction! I had slightly foggy goggles and I just put my head down and went. I don't site much. I was going towards the pier. OOPS! Straightened myself out and got going in the right direction. I did have issues with going straight the whole swim. I think my time suffered a little because of it. I passed A LOT of people. Ended up 4th in my wave :) LOVED the wetsuit strippers!! Got to transition, got everything I needed on - and took off! My helmet felt funny. I realized that my braid was too high on my head, but I decided to let it go. Got passed by several people in the ride down to Sturgeon Bay. There was a pretty strong headwind. Coming through the residential area to get out to the agricultural area, I saw a SNAKE!! It was long and brown and coiled. I saw it kind of lunge at a bike. GROSS!
In this lollipop area I saw Rob, Deanna, and the kids. I didn't expect to see them, so it was a nice surprise! I kept going back and forth with #958. Every couple of miles we would pass each other. I started passing more people as the bike went on. The last stretch back up to transition was fast, and you could tell it was getting hot. I had 2 bottles of accelerade, 1 of nuun, 1 of water. In addition, I took 2 water bottles from aid stations and 1 gatorade. I ate 1 sleeve of clif blocks. I think I need more solids on the bike. I just didn't want to eat any.
I could tell I was getting some cramping as I was getting near the end. I wasn't sure how the run was going to go. Got into transition - there was my cheering section again! I had a hard time getting shoes on without going into full on foot cramps. Deanna also pointed out that I had goosebumps. I was a little worried about dehydration, I admit. I took my handheld bottle of nuun but it was so hot I threw it back. I wish I would have taken it and just refilled it at the aid station. I think it would have helped me to have it. The other thing I wish I would have done is to re-apply sunscreen. I'm pretty burnt. I had it there, I just forgot both times I was in transition.
I took off on the run, decided against the porta-potty. I wish I would have done it there, because I stopped at mile 1 and used that one. I then had a hard time running again. I tried to eat some GU chomps. That didn't really go down well. I could tell sometimes that I stopped sweating, so I would take some salt tabs, drink a gatorade, drink a water, dump ice in my bra. I tried a jog/walk. My stomach was not happy, but not to the point where I was going to get sick. I saw a guy on the side of the road with a medical team covering him in ice and ice cold towels. Not a pretty sight. I eventually walked up mile 6 hill. I ran through Egg Harbor and then walked from that aid station until the top of the bluff. I used the porta-potty again here. I was happy to be able to pee a little. I started indulging in the dunk tanks on the course too. I met a friend around mile 6 and we talked until this area. I was feeling antsy though, so I tried to run. She was having some GI issues and wanted to walk - she assured me she was fine with me moving on. I did look and saw that she was a DNF. I feel bad that I left her behind. I was able to run a few minutes (close to 1/2 mile or so)- walk to aid station - run a few - walk to aid station until the end. I ran down the big hill and finished. It was very anti-climatic. No names being announced. No band. Kinda sucked. I'm sure the people were needed somewhere else. There were spectators even going to the medical tent.
Once I was done, I walked around. I tried to sit in the shade, but I was a little dizzy. I then tried the dunk trough. That was HEAVENLY! I couldn't stay in long though. I went to find the cheering section, but they were gone from their spot. Either Anna was done, or they became concerned about me. I went to transition hoping they were there - no luck. I didn't want to have to walk all the way back, so I cleaned up my spot. I had to carry my heavy bag on my sunburn! :( I found a bench and plopped down. It wasn't long and Rob and all 5 kids were coming towards me -- no Deanna. Uh-oh. Yes, Anna was in medical. She needed an IV. We went in the shade and I went to get a water. While I was doing this, I decided to see Anna. In there was Jen - who was ok, but her husband needed an IV. Also, Jason - who was camping with us was in there also. No IV, just ice and gatorade. I saw a guy projectile vomiting. Lots of sad looking people. Ate some food, and eventually I went and got Anna's stuff out of transition for her while she was being tended to. Once she was released, we drove to Sturgeon Bay and went to Sonny's Pizzeria. Some crowd tried to steal our reservation! Jags! Went to camp, showered, sat down by the fire to relax --- thunder in the distance. Rob looks at the radar - MAJOR STORM coming. We decide to quickly pack up and hightail it out of there. We got cleaned up before the storm, but driving in it was not fun. We got home around 1.
Overall, I am happy with the race. I would have liked to have done better, but I was really challenged by the weather and I survived. I was never in too much distress. I didn't push it like I normally would have, I listened to my body and took it easy. I need to figure out how to keep my stomach from getting icky, but otherwise I felt okay. I'm still a little dehydrated even today. My bike yesterday was pathetically slow. I averaged under 15 mph! It's supposed to be 98 today. I might just put the bike on the trainer or go use my punch pass at the gym to use the treadmill. I enjoy racing - even though I get butterflies. I wish I was doing 1 more tri before IM, but I also don't want to overdo it. I have a couple of aquathons left, dairyland dare bike ride, and madison open water swim. Only 5 weeks before taper. Time to get working!
Got up there Friday afternoon. Set up camp at Potawatomi State Park. Went up to get my packet, and then just chilled around the fire. The next morning, we went up to watch the sprint. Wade was entered in this event. He looked good! While we were watching for him to come in off of the bike, we saw a spectacular crash. I don't know what the dude did, but he took out one of the 8 -10 foot metal barriers, flipped over, and 2 spectators were injured as well. I went over to see if they needed assistance before medical arrived - and I missed Wade. Lots of folks helping, so we walked over to the run out to see Wade leave on the run. Saw him finish and chatted a bit with them. Then we stopped at the Y in Sturgeon Bay and signed both kids up for the kids tri later in the afternoon. Went back to the campsite for lunch and relaxation. On the way back to Sturgeon Bay for the kids tri, a bird flew into my bike on top of the car! Dead bird, blood, feathers and bits everywhere! YUCK!
The kids did their triathlon. Patrick's group was 1st --- ages 8-10. He was 21st overall. He did very well on the swim! I was so impressed. He could use a new bike - I think that might have helped. Mel was in the 4-7 age group and was the 6th girl. She just took off in the water. It was SOOO cute!
Sunday, I woke up feeling rested. Got ready to go and Anna and I drove to the race site together. Got transition set up. Saw Jen - who I met at HHH - right next to me! Ran into my sister's friend Suzi. Fun seeing familiar faces. I got my wetsuit on with about 30 minutes before my wave started (I was wave 15/16). The water was 69 - slightly chilly, but it felt good. There was a pretty good chop in the water. When we were allowed to go to the start, several women tried to butt in my area. These older women weren't as friendly as my 35-39's from last year! Air horn went off - I took off...in the wrong direction! I had slightly foggy goggles and I just put my head down and went. I don't site much. I was going towards the pier. OOPS! Straightened myself out and got going in the right direction. I did have issues with going straight the whole swim. I think my time suffered a little because of it. I passed A LOT of people. Ended up 4th in my wave :) LOVED the wetsuit strippers!! Got to transition, got everything I needed on - and took off! My helmet felt funny. I realized that my braid was too high on my head, but I decided to let it go. Got passed by several people in the ride down to Sturgeon Bay. There was a pretty strong headwind. Coming through the residential area to get out to the agricultural area, I saw a SNAKE!! It was long and brown and coiled. I saw it kind of lunge at a bike. GROSS!
In this lollipop area I saw Rob, Deanna, and the kids. I didn't expect to see them, so it was a nice surprise! I kept going back and forth with #958. Every couple of miles we would pass each other. I started passing more people as the bike went on. The last stretch back up to transition was fast, and you could tell it was getting hot. I had 2 bottles of accelerade, 1 of nuun, 1 of water. In addition, I took 2 water bottles from aid stations and 1 gatorade. I ate 1 sleeve of clif blocks. I think I need more solids on the bike. I just didn't want to eat any.
I could tell I was getting some cramping as I was getting near the end. I wasn't sure how the run was going to go. Got into transition - there was my cheering section again! I had a hard time getting shoes on without going into full on foot cramps. Deanna also pointed out that I had goosebumps. I was a little worried about dehydration, I admit. I took my handheld bottle of nuun but it was so hot I threw it back. I wish I would have taken it and just refilled it at the aid station. I think it would have helped me to have it. The other thing I wish I would have done is to re-apply sunscreen. I'm pretty burnt. I had it there, I just forgot both times I was in transition.
I took off on the run, decided against the porta-potty. I wish I would have done it there, because I stopped at mile 1 and used that one. I then had a hard time running again. I tried to eat some GU chomps. That didn't really go down well. I could tell sometimes that I stopped sweating, so I would take some salt tabs, drink a gatorade, drink a water, dump ice in my bra. I tried a jog/walk. My stomach was not happy, but not to the point where I was going to get sick. I saw a guy on the side of the road with a medical team covering him in ice and ice cold towels. Not a pretty sight. I eventually walked up mile 6 hill. I ran through Egg Harbor and then walked from that aid station until the top of the bluff. I used the porta-potty again here. I was happy to be able to pee a little. I started indulging in the dunk tanks on the course too. I met a friend around mile 6 and we talked until this area. I was feeling antsy though, so I tried to run. She was having some GI issues and wanted to walk - she assured me she was fine with me moving on. I did look and saw that she was a DNF. I feel bad that I left her behind. I was able to run a few minutes (close to 1/2 mile or so)- walk to aid station - run a few - walk to aid station until the end. I ran down the big hill and finished. It was very anti-climatic. No names being announced. No band. Kinda sucked. I'm sure the people were needed somewhere else. There were spectators even going to the medical tent.
Once I was done, I walked around. I tried to sit in the shade, but I was a little dizzy. I then tried the dunk trough. That was HEAVENLY! I couldn't stay in long though. I went to find the cheering section, but they were gone from their spot. Either Anna was done, or they became concerned about me. I went to transition hoping they were there - no luck. I didn't want to have to walk all the way back, so I cleaned up my spot. I had to carry my heavy bag on my sunburn! :( I found a bench and plopped down. It wasn't long and Rob and all 5 kids were coming towards me -- no Deanna. Uh-oh. Yes, Anna was in medical. She needed an IV. We went in the shade and I went to get a water. While I was doing this, I decided to see Anna. In there was Jen - who was ok, but her husband needed an IV. Also, Jason - who was camping with us was in there also. No IV, just ice and gatorade. I saw a guy projectile vomiting. Lots of sad looking people. Ate some food, and eventually I went and got Anna's stuff out of transition for her while she was being tended to. Once she was released, we drove to Sturgeon Bay and went to Sonny's Pizzeria. Some crowd tried to steal our reservation! Jags! Went to camp, showered, sat down by the fire to relax --- thunder in the distance. Rob looks at the radar - MAJOR STORM coming. We decide to quickly pack up and hightail it out of there. We got cleaned up before the storm, but driving in it was not fun. We got home around 1.
Overall, I am happy with the race. I would have liked to have done better, but I was really challenged by the weather and I survived. I was never in too much distress. I didn't push it like I normally would have, I listened to my body and took it easy. I need to figure out how to keep my stomach from getting icky, but otherwise I felt okay. I'm still a little dehydrated even today. My bike yesterday was pathetically slow. I averaged under 15 mph! It's supposed to be 98 today. I might just put the bike on the trainer or go use my punch pass at the gym to use the treadmill. I enjoy racing - even though I get butterflies. I wish I was doing 1 more tri before IM, but I also don't want to overdo it. I have a couple of aquathons left, dairyland dare bike ride, and madison open water swim. Only 5 weeks before taper. Time to get working!
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Aquathon, HHH, IMMT
So - Lots to tell. We'll go in order - sort of.
1st up - Aquathon. It was officially Race #2 of the series, but seeing as I wimped out of the 1st one in May - it was #1 for me. And it was a fail. Not to the worst degree, but pretty damn close. Oops - sorry. That also might not be the last naughty word. Just a warning. My stomach was kinda funky the whole pre-race, but I really didn't think I was nervous. I look at these races as training opportunities. There are WAY too many fast people here. This is where my swimming as a triathlete is just average. And that's okay. Except today.
Got in the water before the race and there is icky green patches. Not as nice as last weekend's water. Still okay. Went up on the beach for announcements, countdown, GO! I was swimming good. A little wide, but I try to avoid contact, so again - okay. When I went around the 1st buoy, I really was having a hard time mentally. The constriction of the wetsuit on my neck was bothering me. I decided to pull open the velcro. When I did this, it made me feel as though I couldn't make it. I still had 1/2 way or so to go. I started wheezing, my heart was racing and all of those damn kayaks were on the inside. SO - I did head out of the water breastroke. I could see Wade just ahead of me. I tried to go again and follow him, but I couldn't get my breathing under control. I went back to my head out breastroke. And continued until I could touch. This is not a good time to be short. I can't touch until I am close to the beach. I walked out of the water and into transition. Pissed off. Slowly got into running shoes and went. Still wheezing and coughing and mad.
I couldn't run up hills. Will Smith won the race and he went by me before I made it up the 1st hill. This is sad. I usually don't see the leaders until the 1mile mark at least. I was hoping Wade wasn't too far ahead of me - I really needed someone to take my mind off of my troubles. I couldn't help thinking - "What if I panic at Ironman?" We'll have to work that out. I have to say - I know the volunteers are just being encouraging and I am just like them when I am volunteering or spectating - but I cursed every single one of them internally. I did say "thanks" to them. But inside I was like "Fuck you". I was so mad that I was "weak". I normally would have been 10 minutes faster - at least. Turns out - Wade had a rough time too on the run. We'll get them next time!
HHH - 100K ride.
This was going to be a fun day with friends. My goal was to just ride, no time goal - try to ride up the hills. Check, and double-check! I laughed a bit, cursed a bit, and generally had a great time. The hills were bad. I thought I was going to fall over on Barlow or whatever it was. At the point that Anna got off her bike, I almost did. I was going so slow though that I thought if I unclipped, I would fall over. There was a period of time that Anna was walking almost as fast as I was riding. I was fully standing up on that hill. It was steep and long. Towards the end, a lot of people were walking the last couple of hills. It helped to stay on the bike actually. I would tell myself "just ride past that person" and there was always someone else ahead. Two funny things --- there was a guy on a mountain bike. We passed him on all the uphills. THEN - they had recently repaved a road with pea gravel. As we were all trying to go down super slow and not wipe out - he goes past yelling "who wants a mountain bike NOW!" Funny guy. The other thing, as we were struggling up a hill, a dude was off his bike to the side and I said to AmyJo - :are we running after we are done?" He looks at me and says "That is not even funny". He looked like he meant business too. It was funny. It's hard to laugh when you are going up hill. Hell - it's hard to breathe too! We did have a jack-ass in a mustang spin his tires going by us where we ate gravel. Jackass. It was a good time. Hard, but fun. Funny though, my legs are not all that sore. Calves were cramping a bit last night, water and nuun helped. Shoulder is KILLING ME! I guess I use my upper body a lot climbing hills. Had a great time riding with everyone and visiting after. I would do this again.
Ironman Mont Tremblant
For those not in the know, the WTC -- which puts on Ironman branded races -- announced 2 new Ironman races. Ironman NYC and Mont Tremblant. Registration opened Wednesday. NYC sold out in 11 minutes - I hear. IMMT was still open. This is in Quebec Canada. Absolutely gorgeous. It is a ski village. So - hilly is an understatement. Just recently, Robert and I were discussing his plans for next year. He said maybe WEMS, maybe IM, maybe both. When he mentioned IM - I figured IMWI again. Thursday, I get a little email from him that says he had been thinking about IMMT. I was a little shocked, but figured if he really wanted to do it, I wasn't going to be able to stop him. I told him to go ahead. He in turn was shocked that I would be up for it. Many emails later - he signed up. SO = we are going to Canada next August! I'm excited for him. He hasn't done all that much in the last 2 years as the training has been revolving around me - and I really appreciate it. I have found how hard it is to train for such an event. I hope I am ready by September and that I don't blow up, but I will be happy to hand the training over to Rob again. I think he probably should start swimming soon, but when does he listen to me???? :)
1st up - Aquathon. It was officially Race #2 of the series, but seeing as I wimped out of the 1st one in May - it was #1 for me. And it was a fail. Not to the worst degree, but pretty damn close. Oops - sorry. That also might not be the last naughty word. Just a warning. My stomach was kinda funky the whole pre-race, but I really didn't think I was nervous. I look at these races as training opportunities. There are WAY too many fast people here. This is where my swimming as a triathlete is just average. And that's okay. Except today.
Got in the water before the race and there is icky green patches. Not as nice as last weekend's water. Still okay. Went up on the beach for announcements, countdown, GO! I was swimming good. A little wide, but I try to avoid contact, so again - okay. When I went around the 1st buoy, I really was having a hard time mentally. The constriction of the wetsuit on my neck was bothering me. I decided to pull open the velcro. When I did this, it made me feel as though I couldn't make it. I still had 1/2 way or so to go. I started wheezing, my heart was racing and all of those damn kayaks were on the inside. SO - I did head out of the water breastroke. I could see Wade just ahead of me. I tried to go again and follow him, but I couldn't get my breathing under control. I went back to my head out breastroke. And continued until I could touch. This is not a good time to be short. I can't touch until I am close to the beach. I walked out of the water and into transition. Pissed off. Slowly got into running shoes and went. Still wheezing and coughing and mad.
I couldn't run up hills. Will Smith won the race and he went by me before I made it up the 1st hill. This is sad. I usually don't see the leaders until the 1mile mark at least. I was hoping Wade wasn't too far ahead of me - I really needed someone to take my mind off of my troubles. I couldn't help thinking - "What if I panic at Ironman?" We'll have to work that out. I have to say - I know the volunteers are just being encouraging and I am just like them when I am volunteering or spectating - but I cursed every single one of them internally. I did say "thanks" to them. But inside I was like "Fuck you". I was so mad that I was "weak". I normally would have been 10 minutes faster - at least. Turns out - Wade had a rough time too on the run. We'll get them next time!
HHH - 100K ride.
This was going to be a fun day with friends. My goal was to just ride, no time goal - try to ride up the hills. Check, and double-check! I laughed a bit, cursed a bit, and generally had a great time. The hills were bad. I thought I was going to fall over on Barlow or whatever it was. At the point that Anna got off her bike, I almost did. I was going so slow though that I thought if I unclipped, I would fall over. There was a period of time that Anna was walking almost as fast as I was riding. I was fully standing up on that hill. It was steep and long. Towards the end, a lot of people were walking the last couple of hills. It helped to stay on the bike actually. I would tell myself "just ride past that person" and there was always someone else ahead. Two funny things --- there was a guy on a mountain bike. We passed him on all the uphills. THEN - they had recently repaved a road with pea gravel. As we were all trying to go down super slow and not wipe out - he goes past yelling "who wants a mountain bike NOW!" Funny guy. The other thing, as we were struggling up a hill, a dude was off his bike to the side and I said to AmyJo - :are we running after we are done?" He looks at me and says "That is not even funny". He looked like he meant business too. It was funny. It's hard to laugh when you are going up hill. Hell - it's hard to breathe too! We did have a jack-ass in a mustang spin his tires going by us where we ate gravel. Jackass. It was a good time. Hard, but fun. Funny though, my legs are not all that sore. Calves were cramping a bit last night, water and nuun helped. Shoulder is KILLING ME! I guess I use my upper body a lot climbing hills. Had a great time riding with everyone and visiting after. I would do this again.
Ironman Mont Tremblant
For those not in the know, the WTC -- which puts on Ironman branded races -- announced 2 new Ironman races. Ironman NYC and Mont Tremblant. Registration opened Wednesday. NYC sold out in 11 minutes - I hear. IMMT was still open. This is in Quebec Canada. Absolutely gorgeous. It is a ski village. So - hilly is an understatement. Just recently, Robert and I were discussing his plans for next year. He said maybe WEMS, maybe IM, maybe both. When he mentioned IM - I figured IMWI again. Thursday, I get a little email from him that says he had been thinking about IMMT. I was a little shocked, but figured if he really wanted to do it, I wasn't going to be able to stop him. I told him to go ahead. He in turn was shocked that I would be up for it. Many emails later - he signed up. SO = we are going to Canada next August! I'm excited for him. He hasn't done all that much in the last 2 years as the training has been revolving around me - and I really appreciate it. I have found how hard it is to train for such an event. I hope I am ready by September and that I don't blow up, but I will be happy to hand the training over to Rob again. I think he probably should start swimming soon, but when does he listen to me???? :)
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Capitol View Race Report, etc.
So - raced again today. Only my 2nd attempt at the Olympic Distance. The 1st was back in 2008. Rob's original "throwdown" with me. I've been running for the past 15 years or so. I'm a swimmer by nature. Rob is a great biker - he just didn't really do much in the way of exercise for a long time. BUT - he would always joke that he could beat me in a triathlon. Bigfoot Olympic Distance - he decided that would be our "race". I won - of course :) That was not an easy course, but not as hard as Capitol View. I had a 2:56:xx then. I didn't have really any time goals today. In fact, I had to look up my Bigfoot time this afternoon to make sure I had a PR. I just wanted to be relaxed and have fun. I succeeded on all fronts. I enjoy triathlon - and I really had a good time today (except when the 4 girls in my age group went by me on the bike).
The swim. I am a good swimmer. Having done several tri's now, I can say this. I also am confident in the water. I make sure I get in the front. I'm pretty certain that I'm one of the best everytime I get in the water - some day I will get this handed to me (like Thursday at Aquathon). But really. They said "go" and after 6 strokes - I saw no one. I was in the 2nd to last wave. I passed several people in the wave ahead of me and several men also. They were several waves ahead of me. I was 1st in my age group in the swim. The water was clear - which has NEVER happened in Lake Mendota before. I have swam 3 tri's and 5 aquathons in the past 3 years in this lake. Best swim ever for me. Had fun. Felt good.
T1 - slower than I'd care for, but not bad. Got out of the wetsuit okay. Should have re-applied sunscreen.
Bike - I swear I had a flat tire for the 1st 10 miles. Legs just felt heavy. The ride in though felt good. I got passed by a bunch of dudes and 6 women. I ended up passing 1 back on the way in and 2 on the run. Unfortunately, 4 of the 6 were in my age group (40-44). I did get past 1 of them on the run, but not 2 for an age group award :(
T2 - not bad. I don't think I could have been faster, actually. But I still rank pretty slow.
Run - this course is brutal. Trail run and hilly. Lots of ups and it doesn't seem like there are as many downs, which doesn't make sense - but trust me -- that's what it feels like. I found that I disliked the Ironman
Perform that they had on the course. I either have to train my tummy to like it or I have to figure out what to do during IM as that is what is on the course. I had a good run. Actually - this felt the best since I had surgery! No ankle pain. I got passed by one fast chick who was many years older. She was loud with her breathing. It probably took her 2 minutes to actually get past me. I was actually glad she went by. I passed A LOT of people. That felt good.
Overall - a 6 minute PR and I really had fun. I hope the pictures show it.
Things I realized in the last few weeks of training:
1. When you see pretty houses on a hill - that does not mean good things are ahead for me on the bike. I am probably about to climb those hills.
2. It is very important to have a well-oiled chain.
3. If your chain is not well-oiled and you have problems shifting while going uphill - you are probably going to drop your chain.
4. If you drop your chain while going uphill and quickly unclip one foot - you are likely going to fall to the opposite side.
5. Falling while basically not moving - still hurts.
6. Big Trucks pulling Big Boats/Trailers etc - think they own the road and they are not afraid to tell you by blaring their horns at you.
7. I'm glad I don't live in Cross Plains -- no offense to anyone reading this from Cross Plains, but I have never liked your Culver's and I now really don't like your Kwik Trip either. Seems the dregs of society are found at either location.
8. My bike fitness is not where I want it to be. We are going to be forced to have a working relationship this summer.
9. I am addicted to caffeine. I need a treatment program. Help.
10. Just because you train a ton - doesn't mean you will lose weight : ( Of course - concrete mixers are probably not good for recovery calories. Probably not a large Latte Miel either, but both tasted good!
That's all for now. Aquathon this week - I wimped out last month due to water temp and volunteered instead. Also have HHH next week. Rob laughs at me when I talk about it. We'll see if I survive.
The swim. I am a good swimmer. Having done several tri's now, I can say this. I also am confident in the water. I make sure I get in the front. I'm pretty certain that I'm one of the best everytime I get in the water - some day I will get this handed to me (like Thursday at Aquathon). But really. They said "go" and after 6 strokes - I saw no one. I was in the 2nd to last wave. I passed several people in the wave ahead of me and several men also. They were several waves ahead of me. I was 1st in my age group in the swim. The water was clear - which has NEVER happened in Lake Mendota before. I have swam 3 tri's and 5 aquathons in the past 3 years in this lake. Best swim ever for me. Had fun. Felt good.
T1 - slower than I'd care for, but not bad. Got out of the wetsuit okay. Should have re-applied sunscreen.
Bike - I swear I had a flat tire for the 1st 10 miles. Legs just felt heavy. The ride in though felt good. I got passed by a bunch of dudes and 6 women. I ended up passing 1 back on the way in and 2 on the run. Unfortunately, 4 of the 6 were in my age group (40-44). I did get past 1 of them on the run, but not 2 for an age group award :(
T2 - not bad. I don't think I could have been faster, actually. But I still rank pretty slow.
Run - this course is brutal. Trail run and hilly. Lots of ups and it doesn't seem like there are as many downs, which doesn't make sense - but trust me -- that's what it feels like. I found that I disliked the Ironman
Perform that they had on the course. I either have to train my tummy to like it or I have to figure out what to do during IM as that is what is on the course. I had a good run. Actually - this felt the best since I had surgery! No ankle pain. I got passed by one fast chick who was many years older. She was loud with her breathing. It probably took her 2 minutes to actually get past me. I was actually glad she went by. I passed A LOT of people. That felt good.
Overall - a 6 minute PR and I really had fun. I hope the pictures show it.
Things I realized in the last few weeks of training:
1. When you see pretty houses on a hill - that does not mean good things are ahead for me on the bike. I am probably about to climb those hills.
2. It is very important to have a well-oiled chain.
3. If your chain is not well-oiled and you have problems shifting while going uphill - you are probably going to drop your chain.
4. If you drop your chain while going uphill and quickly unclip one foot - you are likely going to fall to the opposite side.
5. Falling while basically not moving - still hurts.
6. Big Trucks pulling Big Boats/Trailers etc - think they own the road and they are not afraid to tell you by blaring their horns at you.
7. I'm glad I don't live in Cross Plains -- no offense to anyone reading this from Cross Plains, but I have never liked your Culver's and I now really don't like your Kwik Trip either. Seems the dregs of society are found at either location.
8. My bike fitness is not where I want it to be. We are going to be forced to have a working relationship this summer.
9. I am addicted to caffeine. I need a treatment program. Help.
10. Just because you train a ton - doesn't mean you will lose weight : ( Of course - concrete mixers are probably not good for recovery calories. Probably not a large Latte Miel either, but both tasted good!
That's all for now. Aquathon this week - I wimped out last month due to water temp and volunteered instead. Also have HHH next week. Rob laughs at me when I talk about it. We'll see if I survive.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
J-Hawk Earlybird Race Report
Well, kettlebell class last Thursday kicked my A**. We did 340 squats, plus 60 lunges. My knee was majorly upset. It hurt to get out of my car. I was uncertain as to how Sunday's race would unfold. Turns out the knee was okay for the race. Sunday started with a nice bright yellow ball of fire in the sky! This is my 3rd time doing this race. Last year it rained on me. The 1st year ('08) was cool and overcast. I was pretty excited -- for about 5 seconds. I realized that the wind was going to be an issue. BUT - can't control the weather, can we?!
Pre-race meal -- 1 slice of pb toast, 1 banana, and a Large Soy Latte Miel (mmmmm). I rode with the Rewey's to the race. Set up -- what a bunch of hogs some of those people are! I actually moved 2 people's stuff to make room for my stuff! Geez! Decided to swim with tri shorts and long sports bra/top. Warmed up for a 150 - ready to go!
I was in Wave 1 - swimmer 1 in my wave. My friend Pete was swimmer 2 -- 10 seconds after me. My friend Wade was swimmer 3 in my wave - 2 lanes over. Started out with bilateral breathing, but I also give up on that. I saw Wade get about even with me - maybe slightly ahead. Made sure he didn't get too far away from me. On the flip turn at 450 yards, Pete touched my feet. At this point I decided that I would make him work to pass me. Timer guy put a kickboard in the water to let us know that we were indeed done. Grabbed my towel and exited the building with Wade and Pete right behind me. The chip time says 7:46 - mat just outside of the door. Rob and kids were right there "Mom! It's a race!" Apparently they didn't like that I was walking.
LONNNNNNNNG transition. I pulled on tights - I was chilled! Short sleeve, long sleeve, and lightweight wind jacket. Shoes, helmet, garmin, sunglasses. Pete and Wade left before me. I passed Wade not long after we started. He said that he was already cramping bad. Wind was brutal! Really tried to work hard on the bike since I knew the run might not go as well as I would like. The 1st part of the ride, I was able to get aero. Had to watch some of the corners because of gravel. When is it going to wash out of the road? I passed 1 other person besides Wade on the bike. I saw several others ahead of me and thought I could catch them. Then I turned into the wind. If I could have moved to look at my watch, I am certain I would have seen negative numbers for speed! UGH! I had to be in my small ring. I almost NEVER go to my small ring. I usually stay in the middle ring. The way back was so bad with crosswinds, I am literally surprised I didn't blow over. It was funny to be leaning right just to keep the bike upright. I don't think I have ever ridden in such wind! And - it was less windy Sunday compared to Saturday! Bike time said 53:xx. SLOW!
Transition 2 was better. I pulled off my jacket, pulled on my number and grabbed my hat. Grabbed a drink at the aid station. I felt bad throwing the cup since the wind blew it so far. I started out at a good pace. I was afraid of hurting my ankle, so I dialed back a little. I got passed by 2 people on the run. I came close to passing someone, but just didn't push hard enough to pass him at the home stretch. The run is on the cross-country trail. It was nice that it was dry this year. Especially the long wooden boardwalk! That always has a few causualties. I felt I finished strong. Pete finished about 2 minutes ahead of me. I became quickly chilled waiting for Wade to come in. Turns out his cramps never subsided. He reported that he SAT DOWN on the run to try to stretch! I was about to go in an shower when I saw him coming, so I waited. Boy that shower felt good. All in all, this is a fun race. I enjoy doing it and it is so low pressure. Especially being in the 1st wave of a pool swim. We all went to Rocky's for lunch. Wade and I went back to check our times. 1:31:31 Slowest of my 3 races here. No hardware this time :(
I have since had a massage, and now my legs are feeling better. I think it is my IT band, but not sure. I'm going to go easy with the run this week and hopefully it is just a minimal setback. The good news is - I'm done with kettlebell class!
Seems the weather is warming up - should make for some good upcoming training opportunities!
Pre-race meal -- 1 slice of pb toast, 1 banana, and a Large Soy Latte Miel (mmmmm). I rode with the Rewey's to the race. Set up -- what a bunch of hogs some of those people are! I actually moved 2 people's stuff to make room for my stuff! Geez! Decided to swim with tri shorts and long sports bra/top. Warmed up for a 150 - ready to go!
I was in Wave 1 - swimmer 1 in my wave. My friend Pete was swimmer 2 -- 10 seconds after me. My friend Wade was swimmer 3 in my wave - 2 lanes over. Started out with bilateral breathing, but I also give up on that. I saw Wade get about even with me - maybe slightly ahead. Made sure he didn't get too far away from me. On the flip turn at 450 yards, Pete touched my feet. At this point I decided that I would make him work to pass me. Timer guy put a kickboard in the water to let us know that we were indeed done. Grabbed my towel and exited the building with Wade and Pete right behind me. The chip time says 7:46 - mat just outside of the door. Rob and kids were right there "Mom! It's a race!" Apparently they didn't like that I was walking.
LONNNNNNNNG transition. I pulled on tights - I was chilled! Short sleeve, long sleeve, and lightweight wind jacket. Shoes, helmet, garmin, sunglasses. Pete and Wade left before me. I passed Wade not long after we started. He said that he was already cramping bad. Wind was brutal! Really tried to work hard on the bike since I knew the run might not go as well as I would like. The 1st part of the ride, I was able to get aero. Had to watch some of the corners because of gravel. When is it going to wash out of the road? I passed 1 other person besides Wade on the bike. I saw several others ahead of me and thought I could catch them. Then I turned into the wind. If I could have moved to look at my watch, I am certain I would have seen negative numbers for speed! UGH! I had to be in my small ring. I almost NEVER go to my small ring. I usually stay in the middle ring. The way back was so bad with crosswinds, I am literally surprised I didn't blow over. It was funny to be leaning right just to keep the bike upright. I don't think I have ever ridden in such wind! And - it was less windy Sunday compared to Saturday! Bike time said 53:xx. SLOW!
Transition 2 was better. I pulled off my jacket, pulled on my number and grabbed my hat. Grabbed a drink at the aid station. I felt bad throwing the cup since the wind blew it so far. I started out at a good pace. I was afraid of hurting my ankle, so I dialed back a little. I got passed by 2 people on the run. I came close to passing someone, but just didn't push hard enough to pass him at the home stretch. The run is on the cross-country trail. It was nice that it was dry this year. Especially the long wooden boardwalk! That always has a few causualties. I felt I finished strong. Pete finished about 2 minutes ahead of me. I became quickly chilled waiting for Wade to come in. Turns out his cramps never subsided. He reported that he SAT DOWN on the run to try to stretch! I was about to go in an shower when I saw him coming, so I waited. Boy that shower felt good. All in all, this is a fun race. I enjoy doing it and it is so low pressure. Especially being in the 1st wave of a pool swim. We all went to Rocky's for lunch. Wade and I went back to check our times. 1:31:31 Slowest of my 3 races here. No hardware this time :(
I have since had a massage, and now my legs are feeling better. I think it is my IT band, but not sure. I'm going to go easy with the run this week and hopefully it is just a minimal setback. The good news is - I'm done with kettlebell class!
Seems the weather is warming up - should make for some good upcoming training opportunities!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Gwen has her Groove Back
I have been running. I think I can safely say - I'm back. It feels so good. This morning, the dog and I ran over 6 with the sun coming up in the east (yes, I know - it always comes up in the East - shut up Robert). Glorious! I LOVE that feeling. I am not breaking any speed records, but I am happy with my pace. My legs were not even sore! I think the dog even enjoyed it.
Biking has been going well. Again - not breaking any speed records, but it feels good. Legs get a bit tired, but I feel I am making progress. I just need to start introducing more hills. I think I will try that this afternoon while the kids are at choir.
Swimming has been going GREAT! I did a 2500 straight last week and was able to hold a 1:26/100 yard pace. That is about my goal pace. I am starting to incorporate longer sets into my workouts. Pretty soon I have to consider open water :(
Life is about to get really crazy. The boy is on 2 baseball teams - one of which Robert is coaching. I have to consider something for the girl - I think she wants to try softball. Not sure how that is going to work with the baseball schedules and my workout schedule. We'll see.
May 1st is my 1st triathlon of the year and then there is an Aquathon race May 19th. Let it begin....
Biking has been going well. Again - not breaking any speed records, but it feels good. Legs get a bit tired, but I feel I am making progress. I just need to start introducing more hills. I think I will try that this afternoon while the kids are at choir.
Swimming has been going GREAT! I did a 2500 straight last week and was able to hold a 1:26/100 yard pace. That is about my goal pace. I am starting to incorporate longer sets into my workouts. Pretty soon I have to consider open water :(
Life is about to get really crazy. The boy is on 2 baseball teams - one of which Robert is coaching. I have to consider something for the girl - I think she wants to try softball. Not sure how that is going to work with the baseball schedules and my workout schedule. We'll see.
May 1st is my 1st triathlon of the year and then there is an Aquathon race May 19th. Let it begin....
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Hel-loooooo Spring!
Well, spring fever has sprung. I had a lovely run outdoors on Monday while Mel was at gymnastics. Ozzie and I ran to the other side of Oregon and back. Passed a lot of high school track members (and yes, we were faster than them). I glanced at the garmin a few times, and we were around an 8:30 pace for a portion. I went around 4 miles. THEN - tonight - I rode outdoors! AND - it's only supposed to get a little warmer! I am going to try a 60 minute run tomorrow. We'll see how the ankle holds up.
The last month has been going okay. I am more motivated, although I haven't done every workout in a week yet! I haven't done any bricks, but I am trying to build up to that. My goal is to be fully completing all of my workouts by the end of week 10. It would be nice if I could keep biking outside. I'm sure we'll have some set backs. It is spring in Wisconsin after all. I have yet to name the bike. I feel like it should have a name. It seems like it should be a girl. Aren't all cars/trucks/bikes referred to as "she"?
Hey - swimming is going well! I swam a 2500 straight last week in 37:31. Not bad...I'd like to drop 5 sec/100, but I can live with a 1:30 pace. I did blank on the flags in one workout doing backstroke last week and went into the wall hard .... with my head. Guess I am jealous of Rob's rib injury.
I also am doing a Kettlebell strength training class right now. It's killer. I have to make sure I run before it, because my legs will not be happy if I run after! Wish me luck on my longer run tomorrow!
The last month has been going okay. I am more motivated, although I haven't done every workout in a week yet! I haven't done any bricks, but I am trying to build up to that. My goal is to be fully completing all of my workouts by the end of week 10. It would be nice if I could keep biking outside. I'm sure we'll have some set backs. It is spring in Wisconsin after all. I have yet to name the bike. I feel like it should have a name. It seems like it should be a girl. Aren't all cars/trucks/bikes referred to as "she"?
Hey - swimming is going well! I swam a 2500 straight last week in 37:31. Not bad...I'd like to drop 5 sec/100, but I can live with a 1:30 pace. I did blank on the flags in one workout doing backstroke last week and went into the wall hard .... with my head. Guess I am jealous of Rob's rib injury.
I also am doing a Kettlebell strength training class right now. It's killer. I have to make sure I run before it, because my legs will not be happy if I run after! Wish me luck on my longer run tomorrow!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
ABC's of Me
Stolen from my husband's blog:
(A) Age: 39
(B) Bed Size: King
(C) Chore You Really Dislike: picking up. I always feel like there is a better way to organize my house -- there apparently is not.
(D) Dogs: Ozzie - an adorable, spazzy vizsla who drives me insane.
(E) Essential Start Your Day Item: A shower - I do skip on occasion and it never feels quite right
(F) Favorite Color: pink - preferably hot
(G) Gold or Silver? hmm - I think I enjoy silver more now than gold, but I wouldn't trade my wedding rings.
(H) Height: 5'2" - and 1/2!
(I) Instruments You Play: If forced, I could probably remember how to play the flute.
(J) Job Title: Audiologist
(K) Kids: Patrick - 9 1/2 and Melanie - almost 7
(L) Live: Stoughton, WI
(M) Mom's Name: Linda
(N) Nicknames: Wendy, Gwen, G, Wendell
(O) Overnight Hospital Stays? when both kids were born
(P) Pet Peeve: people who don't apologize for being late - heck I can be late at times; being lied to
(Q) Quote from a Movie: hmm - drawing a blank. I do like many quotes from "Forrest Gump" -- particularly - "I felt like run-ning"
(R) Right or Left Handed? Right
(S) Siblings: 1 sister - Jenny and 1 brother - Nick
(T) Time You Wake Up? the 1st time -- between 4:45 and 5:00
(U) Underwear: apparently anything but a thong is grandma panties -- so I guess I wear grannie panties -- usually
(V) Vegetable You Dislike: eggplant
(W) What Makes You Run Late: kids
(X) X-Rays: foot, knee, chest, sinus, abdomen, teeth -- that might be all
(Y) Yummy Food You Make: Depends on who you ask. I especially like this brussel sprout/chicken dish that I make -- that I stole from Deanna -- but I think I am the only one who likes it. My kids would probably say tater tot casserole. I don't think Rob really cares for my cooking much
(Z) Zoo Animal Favorites: orangutans and polar bears and penguins
(A) Age: 39
(B) Bed Size: King
(C) Chore You Really Dislike: picking up. I always feel like there is a better way to organize my house -- there apparently is not.
(D) Dogs: Ozzie - an adorable, spazzy vizsla who drives me insane.
(E) Essential Start Your Day Item: A shower - I do skip on occasion and it never feels quite right
(F) Favorite Color: pink - preferably hot
(G) Gold or Silver? hmm - I think I enjoy silver more now than gold, but I wouldn't trade my wedding rings.
(H) Height: 5'2" - and 1/2!
(I) Instruments You Play: If forced, I could probably remember how to play the flute.
(J) Job Title: Audiologist
(K) Kids: Patrick - 9 1/2 and Melanie - almost 7
(L) Live: Stoughton, WI
(M) Mom's Name: Linda
(N) Nicknames: Wendy, Gwen, G, Wendell
(O) Overnight Hospital Stays? when both kids were born
(P) Pet Peeve: people who don't apologize for being late - heck I can be late at times; being lied to
(Q) Quote from a Movie: hmm - drawing a blank. I do like many quotes from "Forrest Gump" -- particularly - "I felt like run-ning"
(R) Right or Left Handed? Right
(S) Siblings: 1 sister - Jenny and 1 brother - Nick
(T) Time You Wake Up? the 1st time -- between 4:45 and 5:00
(U) Underwear: apparently anything but a thong is grandma panties -- so I guess I wear grannie panties -- usually
(V) Vegetable You Dislike: eggplant
(W) What Makes You Run Late: kids
(X) X-Rays: foot, knee, chest, sinus, abdomen, teeth -- that might be all
(Y) Yummy Food You Make: Depends on who you ask. I especially like this brussel sprout/chicken dish that I make -- that I stole from Deanna -- but I think I am the only one who likes it. My kids would probably say tater tot casserole. I don't think Rob really cares for my cooking much
(Z) Zoo Animal Favorites: orangutans and polar bears and penguins
Thursday, February 24, 2011
FYI
So - apparently, my husband starting blogging again under a different title. 2 MONTHS AGO! If you are interested - here's the link http://chasing-mailboxes.blogspot.com/ I thought he might have mentioned it to me, but I guess not. He's out of town for a couple of days, so my workouts will all be on the bike until the weekend. Probably a good thing. My foot is killing me. I also almost burned the kitchen down, so probably also good he's gone. Hopefully it doesn't smell like burnt grilled cheese on Friday night yet!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Ironman - Week 1 Wrap-up
So-training has begun. It seems so hard to be motivated to train for something that seems so far away. I felt a lot of pressure already this week. It made me pretty negative. I had thoughts about what I really signed up for. I questioned whether I really am willing to sacrifice missing time with the kids. Trying to balance household duties. Not to mention that my first "run" was a 2 mile walk. And that hurt. I can't imagine that I am to start slowly running in a week. I'm queen of "over-doing it", and I have tried really hard to not over-do it yet. I questioned the pain in my ankle before signing up, but figured I needed rest. I didn't realize that it was going to hurt my off-season maintenance. I haven't gone this long without running since I was pregnant with Melanie. I developed plantar fasciitis, coincidentally, right when I got pregnant with her. When I re-started running, I had a hematoma in my uterus that had me unable to run through pregnancy. Actually, besides that, this is the longest I've gone without running since 1996. I ran through 6 months of my prenancy with Patrick. I realized just how far my fitness has fallen since then.
I still have 1 workout left to do, but after my weekend - I'm not sure I will get on the bike tonight. I did ride outside yesterday. That was rough. My legs are pretty out of shape. I did the Lake Kegonsa loop in about 67 minutes. That is actually not bad. Average speed about 15.5 mph. The hills were tough though. I have to say - even though it was cold outside, I felt good. Only my feet were a little cold. I was able to go aero for about 30% of the ride. I don't know why I can't seem to ride aero on the trainer. I did feel a little soreness in my lower back, but I think my overall fitness is really down compared to when I am in running shape. Biking is the only thing that doesn't hurt my ankle, so it should be the thing I look forward to. I guess I really have to decide to become friends with that thing. Maybe I should name it? Maybe that would help. "I'm going to visit with _________________ tonight." Seems better than - "going to ride in the hell-cave on the trainer". Pretty soon I will be done with "Friends" too. Then I have to switch to Coach Troy and spinervals. Evil man that he is. Hopefully this week will be a little better. 29 weeks to go................
I still have 1 workout left to do, but after my weekend - I'm not sure I will get on the bike tonight. I did ride outside yesterday. That was rough. My legs are pretty out of shape. I did the Lake Kegonsa loop in about 67 minutes. That is actually not bad. Average speed about 15.5 mph. The hills were tough though. I have to say - even though it was cold outside, I felt good. Only my feet were a little cold. I was able to go aero for about 30% of the ride. I don't know why I can't seem to ride aero on the trainer. I did feel a little soreness in my lower back, but I think my overall fitness is really down compared to when I am in running shape. Biking is the only thing that doesn't hurt my ankle, so it should be the thing I look forward to. I guess I really have to decide to become friends with that thing. Maybe I should name it? Maybe that would help. "I'm going to visit with _________________ tonight." Seems better than - "going to ride in the hell-cave on the trainer". Pretty soon I will be done with "Friends" too. Then I have to switch to Coach Troy and spinervals. Evil man that he is. Hopefully this week will be a little better. 29 weeks to go................
Friday, February 4, 2011
Where Have I Been??
I'll tell ya.... Laid UP! So, my plan for a spectacular pre-season really failed. Mostly my fault. Well, all my fault since I planned on getting good on the bike. But, I love to run. And - I could NOT run. I still swam. Love to swim too. I have not lifted weights. Have not done yoga. I finally had an MRI in December when I couldn't even run a 1/4 mile. I had a little cyst dude in my ankle. Decided to do surgery. I am still recovering. Surgery was 1-19. I am in a walking cast. I get that off next week. We'll see what happens then. I am swimming right now. I use a pull buoy so I don't kick. It hurts to kick. My training plan officially starts on Feb. 14th. I don't think I will be running, but I hope to be doing everything else. I thought about looking into joining a gym for 1 month to use an elliptical in place of running, but I don't know if that will be an approved exercise. I will have to wait until I see Lynn next week. I can't wait to run though. Remind me of this in July when I am trying to log 20-25 mile weeks!
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