Six years since I scrtached for my IMLP threepeat,
Time to refocus and get back to the levelof fitness i had in '09, '10.
I will chronicle my goals and progress here.
I appreciate your interest and encouragement
"This is what the things can teach us: to fall, patiently to trust our
heaviness. Even a bird has to do that before he can fly."
Rilke, From The Book
of Hours II, 16
t
Saturday, July 8, 2017
Monday, June 6, 2011
how far is too far?
This week one year ago i was in Saratoga Springs for a professional conference. No bike, no pool, and not a lot of time to squeeze in any meaningful training, and only around 5 weeks to go before the taper should begin. A trip planned to Lake Placid for the Tupper Lake weekend would hopefully give me a chance to do my first and perhaps only 100 mile ride, since last July. My back has been giving me trouble and all the stretching and massage i can muster has no positive effect.
Last year I adopted a healthy new perspective, at least new for me, to endurance racing. I forgot about results, finish times, cut off times. I committed to 'just start', and then to 'keep going'. Perfect for someone with a super laid back and easy going personality. Interesting though, I dont always see myself that way, nor do some of the people in my life who know me longest and best. And I did complete the 140.6 mile distance, in itself proof that i wasn't willing to let the day pass without making the effort. This was important to me, even if my mind could play that trick that had me smling and joking through the struggle and pain and into the night.
There's something deep inside me that has me returning. There's something about taking on a challenge. I feel a need to take the next step, to do more, to go farther.
I had no business starting that race last year, and I made the cutoff by less than 10 minutes. I did finish sprinting and 'strong'. Does the fact that I finished mean I still havent gone too far?
Last year I adopted a healthy new perspective, at least new for me, to endurance racing. I forgot about results, finish times, cut off times. I committed to 'just start', and then to 'keep going'. Perfect for someone with a super laid back and easy going personality. Interesting though, I dont always see myself that way, nor do some of the people in my life who know me longest and best. And I did complete the 140.6 mile distance, in itself proof that i wasn't willing to let the day pass without making the effort. This was important to me, even if my mind could play that trick that had me smling and joking through the struggle and pain and into the night.
There's something deep inside me that has me returning. There's something about taking on a challenge. I feel a need to take the next step, to do more, to go farther.
"Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go."
– T.S. Eliot
I had no business starting that race last year, and I made the cutoff by less than 10 minutes. I did finish sprinting and 'strong'. Does the fact that I finished mean I still havent gone too far?
Sunday, May 22, 2011
oh yeah i forgot i have a blog
I need to do the 2010 race report. But first I need to go for a long ride.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
that. just. happened.
post race
as i crossed the finish line my knees buckled. The elderly woman assigned to catch me, caught me. Whats this? i am perfectly fine, my legs just gave out for no apparent reason.Ive often wondered about this, I understand better now. My body was really only along for the ride, my mind carried me over the finish line, and once that was accomplishment it simply stopped holding88 me up, and the legs took a second to get with the program and take over.
They put a medal around my neck and a cap on my head.Then I was all alone as they went on to greet the next finisher. Farrah and Gustavo came up to me and congratulated me. Gustavo looked great, he finished hours earlier and was at the finish line now greeting people. Awesome, dude. They took my photo, and i walked on to find pizza and my bike.
Pizza was all gone, but i got a soggy subway ham sandwich. Next time, guys, order more pizza please.
I went to the massage tent, they were getting ready close down. I had a little finger poking session from the massage student, nothing to write home about there. Memorable, though, was when, as i laid on my back, eyes closed, she standing at my head said "Ooops im sorry". I asked what happened. "Oh i leaned over and my breasts went in your face". Nothing to apologize about, and if you hadnt mentioned it i wouldnt have known.
This story made me laugh, very very hard
Christine and Michelle helped me with my bike and stuff back up the hill, which was much appreciated, although I really think I could have carried my stuff and both of them on my back. I swear I floated up that logn hill in front of the Crowne Plaza.
Back at the house, Phil and Javier had already finished and were hanging out. What a fantastic day. The best day ever. So far...
2009 Ironman North America
Lake Placid, New York
Bib 1977, Male 50-54, 150th of 181, 16:17:37
as i crossed the finish line my knees buckled. The elderly woman assigned to catch me, caught me. Whats this? i am perfectly fine, my legs just gave out for no apparent reason.Ive often wondered about this, I understand better now. My body was really only along for the ride, my mind carried me over the finish line, and once that was accomplishment it simply stopped holding88 me up, and the legs took a second to get with the program and take over.
They put a medal around my neck and a cap on my head.Then I was all alone as they went on to greet the next finisher. Farrah and Gustavo came up to me and congratulated me. Gustavo looked great, he finished hours earlier and was at the finish line now greeting people. Awesome, dude. They took my photo, and i walked on to find pizza and my bike.
Pizza was all gone, but i got a soggy subway ham sandwich. Next time, guys, order more pizza please.
I went to the massage tent, they were getting ready close down. I had a little finger poking session from the massage student, nothing to write home about there. Memorable, though, was when, as i laid on my back, eyes closed, she standing at my head said "Ooops im sorry". I asked what happened. "Oh i leaned over and my breasts went in your face". Nothing to apologize about, and if you hadnt mentioned it i wouldnt have known.
This story made me laugh, very very hard
Christine and Michelle helped me with my bike and stuff back up the hill, which was much appreciated, although I really think I could have carried my stuff and both of them on my back. I swear I floated up that logn hill in front of the Crowne Plaza.
Back at the house, Phil and Javier had already finished and were hanging out. What a fantastic day. The best day ever. So far...
2009 Ironman North America
Lake Placid, New York
Bib 1977, Male 50-54, 150th of 181, 16:17:37
Friday, July 23, 2010
Run
Run
The run course starts with a pretty good downhill, and that along with the cheering crowds can trick you into going out too fast. I looked at my watch - 8:30 pace! I forced myself to slow down. Turning right and onto the really big hill I saw Michelle, Farrah and Ch, and not left and Christine. Great to see familiar faces and so nice to have people cheering for +me+ :). I did a pirouette as I passed them. Thats how i roll.
After I jogged out of their sight I tried to walk some, and I stopped at the first portapotty, even though I dint really need to. Anything to get my pace under control.
I ran and walked now, stopping and walking through each aid station, taking water and gatorade at each one.
At run special needs I stopped and changed my shoes. I had planned to do this, and even though my first shoes are dry and my feet feel fine, i change them. This turns out to be a mistake. I do also take a good handful of vaseline and slather my crotch and nipples. The volunteers avert their eyes.
The first loop was challenging, and as i ran down Lake Placid Drive toward the Olympic Oval my mind looked for a way to turn right for the finish line. I guess thats probably not a workable solution, soldier on, left turn and back down the hill.
Its around twilight now, the sun is down but its still light enough to recognize faces. I saw Nathan and Kristine running back into town. Nathan looked at his watch and quickly calculated that I would have enough time to beat the cut off. I still have no idea how he was able to do that, but thanks!
Food selection at the aid stations was starting to get sparse. I pulled a pack of sports beans from my pocket, but realized i was going to need to start eating or else crash and burn. I found the power bar vanilla crunch was palatable enough, for now, but i was becoming concerned about the rest of the race and nutrition.
It was pretty dark now. Turning left past the equestrian center I saw a man vomiting on the way back into town. Across the street, on my side, a state trooper turned his back, his body language said he couldn't help that person and didn't want to watch him in misery. I carried the image of the sick guy with me, to reinforce my need to eat, and to eat the right stuff. I did not want to be him. (I later found out that guy was Brian Brode - Triboomer)
Turning onto the River Road out and back, doing some calculations with distance and time remaining and expected pace. It seems I am in a position to finish before midnight, as long as I keep moving. I met a young woman there who did the math along with me, we were both surprised at our ability to do these calculations. We talked a while, then she ran off ahead.
It gets very dark on River Road. The aid stations are well lit, but in the mile in between you can barely see the road in front of you. They hand out glow sticks so that as the road begins to open to vehicular traffic the runners can be seen.
I reached the turnaround and the 20k timing mat. This is the start of the race, not i start pushing and counting the number of people i pass. I did a Blaiseman Roll over the mat and took off.
I started taking the chicken soup at the aids stations now. And coke and pretzels. The chicken soups is really good, and MAGIC! I am having fun.
You can hear Mike Reilly announcing new Ironmen, even this far out. Sound travels far on clear dark nights like this, and there was a super-gravitational pull at work now.
I saw strange lights on the road. Green and Orange and Yellow, sprites bobbing and weaving in front of me in the distance. As I got closer I could see, these were runners still heading out and away from the finish line, clearly having difficulty even walking in a straight line. God Bless Them, but someone should tell them they have no hope of finishing before midnight. Do they know? God Bless Them.
I'm turning right, done with the out and back and heading up the hill by the ski jump. Run-walking, looking for the next chicken soup and coke. Right turn again at the airport and I'm heading back to town. Up the hill by the IGA and a left turn onto main street. The crowds are still there cheering, very much needed and appreciated.
Up the hill on this final out and back, I am really pushing, although it may not look like it. I'm walking and running. Ive got a bad blister on the ball of my right foot. Its not going to stop me but it does slow me down.
A spectator is yelling at the top of his lungs for someone to run. "Dont walk, run you'll feel better, run, RUN, RUN!!" As I end my walk segment and break into a jog, I hear him scream "Thats it! RUN! Doesn't that feel better? YOURE LOOKING GREAT! I told you it would be better, run, RUN!".
He's screaming at me. I look over and make eye contact. He's stopped yelling now and just smiles. I say "Who the hell are you?".
A guy running just in front of me chuckles and says "He's your coach, didn't you know?".
I really appreciate all the support from the volunteers and spectators, but after almost 11 hours on the road, i am not going to react well to screaming, and I am pretty sure I dont look great. A sincere "Nice job, way to go" will be sufficient thank you.
I am running faster now, down the hill. I can see the lights from the Oval. I can hear Reilly louder and louder. Im running 9:30 pace. At the bottom of the hill I give the volunteer a head fake, as if I am heading out for another loop. Always leave them laughing. I turn right, past the cheering people and into the oval. I'm fying.
8:00 pace, around the oval, and I go under the first inflatable ironman arch, look around and realize, really, where I am and whats happening. I am sprinting now, probably 7:00 pace around the curve, doing the airplane thing from side to side, high fiving the crowd. I hear Mike Reilly say "Wait, Wh.. LOOK AT THIS!". The people in the grandstand are on their feet and roaring. Mike Reilly does the low five thing and I cross the finish line.
Run 5:54:55 13:33 pace
The run course starts with a pretty good downhill, and that along with the cheering crowds can trick you into going out too fast. I looked at my watch - 8:30 pace! I forced myself to slow down. Turning right and onto the really big hill I saw Michelle, Farrah and Ch, and not left and Christine. Great to see familiar faces and so nice to have people cheering for +me+ :). I did a pirouette as I passed them. Thats how i roll.
After I jogged out of their sight I tried to walk some, and I stopped at the first portapotty, even though I dint really need to. Anything to get my pace under control.
I ran and walked now, stopping and walking through each aid station, taking water and gatorade at each one.
At run special needs I stopped and changed my shoes. I had planned to do this, and even though my first shoes are dry and my feet feel fine, i change them. This turns out to be a mistake. I do also take a good handful of vaseline and slather my crotch and nipples. The volunteers avert their eyes.
The first loop was challenging, and as i ran down Lake Placid Drive toward the Olympic Oval my mind looked for a way to turn right for the finish line. I guess thats probably not a workable solution, soldier on, left turn and back down the hill.
Its around twilight now, the sun is down but its still light enough to recognize faces. I saw Nathan and Kristine running back into town. Nathan looked at his watch and quickly calculated that I would have enough time to beat the cut off. I still have no idea how he was able to do that, but thanks!
Food selection at the aid stations was starting to get sparse. I pulled a pack of sports beans from my pocket, but realized i was going to need to start eating or else crash and burn. I found the power bar vanilla crunch was palatable enough, for now, but i was becoming concerned about the rest of the race and nutrition.
It was pretty dark now. Turning left past the equestrian center I saw a man vomiting on the way back into town. Across the street, on my side, a state trooper turned his back, his body language said he couldn't help that person and didn't want to watch him in misery. I carried the image of the sick guy with me, to reinforce my need to eat, and to eat the right stuff. I did not want to be him. (I later found out that guy was Brian Brode - Triboomer)
Turning onto the River Road out and back, doing some calculations with distance and time remaining and expected pace. It seems I am in a position to finish before midnight, as long as I keep moving. I met a young woman there who did the math along with me, we were both surprised at our ability to do these calculations. We talked a while, then she ran off ahead.
It gets very dark on River Road. The aid stations are well lit, but in the mile in between you can barely see the road in front of you. They hand out glow sticks so that as the road begins to open to vehicular traffic the runners can be seen.
I reached the turnaround and the 20k timing mat. This is the start of the race, not i start pushing and counting the number of people i pass. I did a Blaiseman Roll over the mat and took off.
I started taking the chicken soup at the aids stations now. And coke and pretzels. The chicken soups is really good, and MAGIC! I am having fun.
You can hear Mike Reilly announcing new Ironmen, even this far out. Sound travels far on clear dark nights like this, and there was a super-gravitational pull at work now.
I saw strange lights on the road. Green and Orange and Yellow, sprites bobbing and weaving in front of me in the distance. As I got closer I could see, these were runners still heading out and away from the finish line, clearly having difficulty even walking in a straight line. God Bless Them, but someone should tell them they have no hope of finishing before midnight. Do they know? God Bless Them.
I'm turning right, done with the out and back and heading up the hill by the ski jump. Run-walking, looking for the next chicken soup and coke. Right turn again at the airport and I'm heading back to town. Up the hill by the IGA and a left turn onto main street. The crowds are still there cheering, very much needed and appreciated.
Up the hill on this final out and back, I am really pushing, although it may not look like it. I'm walking and running. Ive got a bad blister on the ball of my right foot. Its not going to stop me but it does slow me down.
A spectator is yelling at the top of his lungs for someone to run. "Dont walk, run you'll feel better, run, RUN, RUN!!" As I end my walk segment and break into a jog, I hear him scream "Thats it! RUN! Doesn't that feel better? YOURE LOOKING GREAT! I told you it would be better, run, RUN!".
He's screaming at me. I look over and make eye contact. He's stopped yelling now and just smiles. I say "Who the hell are you?".
A guy running just in front of me chuckles and says "He's your coach, didn't you know?".
I really appreciate all the support from the volunteers and spectators, but after almost 11 hours on the road, i am not going to react well to screaming, and I am pretty sure I dont look great. A sincere "Nice job, way to go" will be sufficient thank you.
I am running faster now, down the hill. I can see the lights from the Oval. I can hear Reilly louder and louder. Im running 9:30 pace. At the bottom of the hill I give the volunteer a head fake, as if I am heading out for another loop. Always leave them laughing. I turn right, past the cheering people and into the oval. I'm fying.
8:00 pace, around the oval, and I go under the first inflatable ironman arch, look around and realize, really, where I am and whats happening. I am sprinting now, probably 7:00 pace around the curve, doing the airplane thing from side to side, high fiving the crowd. I hear Mike Reilly say "Wait, Wh.. LOOK AT THIS!". The people in the grandstand are on their feet and roaring. Mike Reilly does the low five thing and I cross the finish line.
Run 5:54:55 13:33 pace
Bike to Run Transition
So happy to be off the bike. I walk into the changing tent and find a bench, open my run gear bag and start changing. Looking around I see not too much activity here. A medical person is talking to an athlete about his chest pain. Someone else asks a volunteer how long he can stay there before he has to leave and start the marathon. The vollie pauses, puzzled look, then says "Hey you can stay as long as you want, until we close at midnight".
I finished changing and walked out to the run start. I pause here for a few minutes waiting for the Garmin to acquire satellites. I feel really good.
T2 16:30
I finished changing and walked out to the run start. I pause here for a few minutes waiting for the Garmin to acquire satellites. I feel really good.
T2 16:30
Thursday, July 22, 2010
bike
I came out of the changing tent and was handed my bike. With a flat front tire.
I think when i had the guy help me with inflating the rear tire, he also hit the front with a shot of pressure, which it didnt need. Overinflated, during my almost two hour swim and transition tent meet and greet, the temp warmed up and pop. Not a problem, if youre going to have a flat anywhere, this is the place to do it. They fixed it for me, 10 minutes and i didnt even get my hands dirty.
I had advice from the guys at Endurance Nation on my race execution. Dont chase people passing me on the climb out of town. Save yourself, you will see many of them later at the end of the bike portion, or certainly during the run. Stay aero, focusing on form on the bike will improve efficiency and preserve much needed resources for the run discipline. They also gave great advice on where to grab nutrition, where you wouldn't be able to (like the 40mph + descent into Keene, no, you dont start messing with a gel packet then).
I also knew from personal experience that I needed to force myself to drink, I should be emptying all my bottles between aid stations. Kona Kola Nuun in every bottle. A gel every 20 to 30 minutes also a must.
Throughout the day I played leapfrog with the same group, being passed by them on ascents, blowing by them on descents. For me at least this wasnt going to be about chasing or making a breakaway. Like I had written on my forearms, "patience" and "purpose" would bring me my own success this day.
At bike Special Needs I stopped and took some time to move off to the side, dismount, restock my Nuun tabs, eat some Sports Beans and have a long drink. And goofed around a little with the volunteers. A nice little break, maybe 5 minutes spent, a good investment with the return being a smile on my face as i left for loops number 2.
Climbing out of town on the second loop I noticed the words on my forearm beginning to fade. Moreso my left arm than right. So my mantra for the rest of the ride was "my patience may be wearing thin, but my purpose is still clear"
I stopped at the portosan on the Haselton out and back and fully utilized the service provided there.
I was feeling a little bonky passing through Wilmington Notch the second time. i broke out my secret weapon, Peanut M&Ms I had saved in my bento box. The sugar really helped to carry me through. I did come out of the saddle up Papa Bear, more to stretch than anything else.
Returning to the oval i went up around the back of the high school, then carefully down a hill,and pass offed the bike.
Bike Time 8:10:14 13.7 mph pace
I think when i had the guy help me with inflating the rear tire, he also hit the front with a shot of pressure, which it didnt need. Overinflated, during my almost two hour swim and transition tent meet and greet, the temp warmed up and pop. Not a problem, if youre going to have a flat anywhere, this is the place to do it. They fixed it for me, 10 minutes and i didnt even get my hands dirty.
I had advice from the guys at Endurance Nation on my race execution. Dont chase people passing me on the climb out of town. Save yourself, you will see many of them later at the end of the bike portion, or certainly during the run. Stay aero, focusing on form on the bike will improve efficiency and preserve much needed resources for the run discipline. They also gave great advice on where to grab nutrition, where you wouldn't be able to (like the 40mph + descent into Keene, no, you dont start messing with a gel packet then).
I also knew from personal experience that I needed to force myself to drink, I should be emptying all my bottles between aid stations. Kona Kola Nuun in every bottle. A gel every 20 to 30 minutes also a must.
Throughout the day I played leapfrog with the same group, being passed by them on ascents, blowing by them on descents. For me at least this wasnt going to be about chasing or making a breakaway. Like I had written on my forearms, "patience" and "purpose" would bring me my own success this day.
At bike Special Needs I stopped and took some time to move off to the side, dismount, restock my Nuun tabs, eat some Sports Beans and have a long drink. And goofed around a little with the volunteers. A nice little break, maybe 5 minutes spent, a good investment with the return being a smile on my face as i left for loops number 2.
Climbing out of town on the second loop I noticed the words on my forearm beginning to fade. Moreso my left arm than right. So my mantra for the rest of the ride was "my patience may be wearing thin, but my purpose is still clear"
I stopped at the portosan on the Haselton out and back and fully utilized the service provided there.
I was feeling a little bonky passing through Wilmington Notch the second time. i broke out my secret weapon, Peanut M&Ms I had saved in my bento box. The sugar really helped to carry me through. I did come out of the saddle up Papa Bear, more to stretch than anything else.
Returning to the oval i went up around the back of the high school, then carefully down a hill,and pass offed the bike.
Bike Time 8:10:14 13.7 mph pace
Swim to Bike Transiton
On the way into transition i called out my number, and that was passed down the line so my gear bag was waiting for me when i got into the changing tent.
I decided i would be comfortable for this long ride, so i had my bib shorts. After taking my time getting dressed and applying the chamois butter, i went to the sunblock table, oy what a mess.
This was a very long transition, but really set the tome for the rest of my race. Im built for comfort, not speed.
T1 23:12
I decided i would be comfortable for this long ride, so i had my bib shorts. After taking my time getting dressed and applying the chamois butter, i went to the sunblock table, oy what a mess.
This was a very long transition, but really set the tome for the rest of my race. Im built for comfort, not speed.
T1 23:12
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
swim
Phil, Javier and I walked down to the start. We didnt talk much.
I went to check on my bike. I was having trouble with the valve extension in the rear wheel, so i walked the bike up to the bike techs to figger it out. dropped off the morning clothes and got ready to head down to the lake. The skies had been threatening to open, and many of the racers still remember clearly the 2008 weather: steady rain from the swim start until midnight. Now around 6:30am we felt a few raindrops, and i heard a woman's plaintiff whine "Oh Cmon! Give me a break!" Who was she talking to?
At this moment I felt completely calm and very enthusiastic about starting. All of these outside factors are out of my control, so why worry? I headed down to the lake.
I stayed to the rear. actually standing chest deep. National anthem, some blabber from Mike Reilly, canon blast and we're off.
I stayed a little to the outside and in the back of the pack. While I couldn't see the underwater cable, there were enough swimmers trying to stay on the line that I had no problem slighting and staying on course. Remarkably;y little contact with other swimmers. When I reached the first turn, i missed the buoy and realized i was inside the turn as i reached the marker. I started to turn around to swim around it, but a woman in a kayak there said i was ok and waved me on.
I finished the first inshore leg, was feeling like i was getting in a nice groove, focused on my form, not too hard, glide, keep my head down. Now I got out of the water, walked around the floating dock and back into the water to start the second loop. I paused here for a minute, and I was nto the only one. Just a bit of a self analysis, gut check, deciding whether or not i really want to do this. Sure I do. So off I went.
Now, the course is getting a little more congested, i think because of getting lapped by the faster swimmers. The times when I drifted in toward the cable, I had some contact, but in general nothing too serious. There was one guy, doing the breat stroke, and as i swam past him he gave me a nice frog kick into the solar plexus. That really sucked.
About 200 yards from the swim exit, i just dipped inside the cable and stopped to look around. A guy in a kayak came over wanting to rescue me. No thanks, just taking in this scene. I did notice a pretty good current pushing me inshore, from all those people swimming in a circle I guess,
I came out of the water, plopped myself down and let a stripper help to remove my suit. I usually dont need help, but how often so you get wetsuit strippers? Maybe once a year?
I rolled up the wetsuit to the size of a football, tucked it under my arm and ran down the chute toward T1.
Swim time 1:32:48
I went to check on my bike. I was having trouble with the valve extension in the rear wheel, so i walked the bike up to the bike techs to figger it out. dropped off the morning clothes and got ready to head down to the lake. The skies had been threatening to open, and many of the racers still remember clearly the 2008 weather: steady rain from the swim start until midnight. Now around 6:30am we felt a few raindrops, and i heard a woman's plaintiff whine "Oh Cmon! Give me a break!" Who was she talking to?
At this moment I felt completely calm and very enthusiastic about starting. All of these outside factors are out of my control, so why worry? I headed down to the lake.
I stayed to the rear. actually standing chest deep. National anthem, some blabber from Mike Reilly, canon blast and we're off.
I stayed a little to the outside and in the back of the pack. While I couldn't see the underwater cable, there were enough swimmers trying to stay on the line that I had no problem slighting and staying on course. Remarkably;y little contact with other swimmers. When I reached the first turn, i missed the buoy and realized i was inside the turn as i reached the marker. I started to turn around to swim around it, but a woman in a kayak there said i was ok and waved me on.
I finished the first inshore leg, was feeling like i was getting in a nice groove, focused on my form, not too hard, glide, keep my head down. Now I got out of the water, walked around the floating dock and back into the water to start the second loop. I paused here for a minute, and I was nto the only one. Just a bit of a self analysis, gut check, deciding whether or not i really want to do this. Sure I do. So off I went.
Now, the course is getting a little more congested, i think because of getting lapped by the faster swimmers. The times when I drifted in toward the cable, I had some contact, but in general nothing too serious. There was one guy, doing the breat stroke, and as i swam past him he gave me a nice frog kick into the solar plexus. That really sucked.
About 200 yards from the swim exit, i just dipped inside the cable and stopped to look around. A guy in a kayak came over wanting to rescue me. No thanks, just taking in this scene. I did notice a pretty good current pushing me inshore, from all those people swimming in a circle I guess,
I came out of the water, plopped myself down and let a stripper help to remove my suit. I usually dont need help, but how often so you get wetsuit strippers? Maybe once a year?
I rolled up the wetsuit to the size of a football, tucked it under my arm and ran down the chute toward T1.
Swim time 1:32:48
wakey wakey
Sunday July 24
2AM Im up to apply sunblock and drink 500 calories worth of Ensure.
Wont get any more real sleep, but im going back to lay in bed for a couple more hours.
2AM Im up to apply sunblock and drink 500 calories worth of Ensure.
Wont get any more real sleep, but im going back to lay in bed for a couple more hours.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
crunch time
Saturday July 25, 2009
Waking this morning and checking my schedule, I realized this would be would be a very short and busy day. Bring the bike down to the Olympic Oval for check in. get on line to register for 2010. Eat lunch. Eat lunch again. Drink lots all day. Go to bed around 7pm.
Im not at all nervous, no anxiety. So much planning, checking and rechecking. Everyone is very quiet, resolved.
Waking this morning and checking my schedule, I realized this would be would be a very short and busy day. Bring the bike down to the Olympic Oval for check in. get on line to register for 2010. Eat lunch. Eat lunch again. Drink lots all day. Go to bed around 7pm.
Im not at all nervous, no anxiety. So much planning, checking and rechecking. Everyone is very quiet, resolved.
check in
Friday July 24, 2009
its all getting very real now. A visit to the ironman village, bought a trigger point therapy roller, just because its there. same as the 2 red foam rollers i already have, but its got some fancy textures on it and its orange. walked over and checked in for the race. Id given, weighed, waivered, spindled, folded and sent packing with a plastic bag containing special needs bags, stickers, numbers, instructions, and an ironman poster.
I met Iron Crackhead and had a pleasant talk about expectations. I have none. That sounded very odd to me, surrounded by many athletes who are just BUGGING OUT with nervous energy. I had a conversation with one young woman who was a first time ironman participant, asking me questions about the swim, for tips on managing the course, etc. Do i look like i know what im doing? I have that quality, the ability to appear calm and therefore in control, when actually in completely out of control and unmanageable situations. Interesting.
Went into town for lunch at the crepe place, then for a light run and a short swim. The Phil and Javier have arrived. The garage is looking like a bike repair shop, everyone checking cables, tuning gears, and me taping 22 power gel packets to my top tube.
Bed early tonight, 2 more sleeps.
its all getting very real now. A visit to the ironman village, bought a trigger point therapy roller, just because its there. same as the 2 red foam rollers i already have, but its got some fancy textures on it and its orange. walked over and checked in for the race. Id given, weighed, waivered, spindled, folded and sent packing with a plastic bag containing special needs bags, stickers, numbers, instructions, and an ironman poster.
I met Iron Crackhead and had a pleasant talk about expectations. I have none. That sounded very odd to me, surrounded by many athletes who are just BUGGING OUT with nervous energy. I had a conversation with one young woman who was a first time ironman participant, asking me questions about the swim, for tips on managing the course, etc. Do i look like i know what im doing? I have that quality, the ability to appear calm and therefore in control, when actually in completely out of control and unmanageable situations. Interesting.
Went into town for lunch at the crepe place, then for a light run and a short swim. The Phil and Javier have arrived. The garage is looking like a bike repair shop, everyone checking cables, tuning gears, and me taping 22 power gel packets to my top tube.
Bed early tonight, 2 more sleeps.
Settling in
Thursday July 23, 2009
Today's Thursday and Im just settling in to my spot in the house, unpacking my gear, greeting the housemates. I'm do not feel at all prepared for this race, and strangely i do not feel at all nervous either. On the ride up we discussed how i was feeling and how i would approach this major thing on Sunday. I wasn't quite sure how to articulate it, but i think ive got it now. Ive adjusted my expectations and re framed this from a focus on makign cut off times and finishing, to simply starting. I know i can do that. This has always been for fun, for me, and just chucking all the nervous energy really makes this an exciting adventure. its why im here.
later in the day I plan to swim. I havent had more than 4 or 5 swims since the winter. I'll do 2 loops if i can.
Other than that, some healthy eating , a few beers and plenty of rest planned.
Today's Thursday and Im just settling in to my spot in the house, unpacking my gear, greeting the housemates. I'm do not feel at all prepared for this race, and strangely i do not feel at all nervous either. On the ride up we discussed how i was feeling and how i would approach this major thing on Sunday. I wasn't quite sure how to articulate it, but i think ive got it now. Ive adjusted my expectations and re framed this from a focus on makign cut off times and finishing, to simply starting. I know i can do that. This has always been for fun, for me, and just chucking all the nervous energy really makes this an exciting adventure. its why im here.
later in the day I plan to swim. I havent had more than 4 or 5 swims since the winter. I'll do 2 loops if i can.
Other than that, some healthy eating , a few beers and plenty of rest planned.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Travel Day
Wednesday July 22, 2009
I packed up the car last night, got the bike on the roof, all the bags in the back, bottled water, quinoa, oats, soy milk, french press and a pound of Columbian.
Picked up Christine and drove to Lake Placid.
Arrived early afternoon, unpacked, went to Price Chopper, back to house for a nice arugula salad with the hummus dressing. Dude took photos.
There is no denying we've cooked together in a previous life.
I packed up the car last night, got the bike on the roof, all the bags in the back, bottled water, quinoa, oats, soy milk, french press and a pound of Columbian.
Picked up Christine and drove to Lake Placid.
Arrived early afternoon, unpacked, went to Price Chopper, back to house for a nice arugula salad with the hummus dressing. Dude took photos.
There is no denying we've cooked together in a previous life.
Monday, November 2, 2009
In the Bag
July 16
Coach Patrick and Coach Rich of suggested that checklists, making them, checking them, repeating this process, could help to dissipate nervous energy and prevent blowing the taper. I liked Rich's suggestion too about using brown paper shopping bags, to keep things organized and accessible. I stopped by King Kullen this morning and offered to buy 10 bags; the checkout girl handed me 15 and a smile.
Next, I made up checklists. Six of them.
Coach Patrick and Coach Rich of suggested that checklists, making them, checking them, repeating this process, could help to dissipate nervous energy and prevent blowing the taper. I liked Rich's suggestion too about using brown paper shopping bags, to keep things organized and accessible. I stopped by King Kullen this morning and offered to buy 10 bags; the checkout girl handed me 15 and a smile.
Next, I made up checklists. Six of them.
Bike Setup
□ Power bars
□ Jelly beans
□ Power shots
□ Tubes
□ Levers
□ Co2
□ Electrical tape
□ Rubber bands
□ Aero drink
□ 3 bottles water
□ Nuun
□ Bento box
□ Peanut m&m
□ Paperclip
□ Velcro straps
□ Plastic coverup
Race Morning
□ Wetsuit
□ Swimsuit
□ Earplugs
□ Goggles
□ Swimcap
□ Flipflops
□ Bodyglide
□ Timex Watch
□ Towel
□ Light jacket
□ Beanie
Swim to Bike Transition
□ Race belt
□ Bib shorts in plastic bag
□
□ Socks in plastic bag
□ Shoes in plastic bag
□ Sunglasses
□ Gloves
□ Bandana
□ Light jacket in bag
□ Helmet
Bike Special Needs
□ Pump
□ Socks in plastic bag
□ Bandana in plastic bag
□ Extra gloves
□ Power Bars
□ Jelly Beans
□ Levers
□ CO2
□ Tubes
□ Extra Lenses
□ Biofreeze
□ Nuun
□ Fig newtons in plastic bag
□ Electrical tape
□ Bandaids in plastic bag
Bike to Run Transition
□ Shorts in plastic bag
□ Short sleeve Shirt in plastic bag
□ Long sleeve shirt in plastic bag
□ Hat
□ Socks in plastic bag
□ Shoes in plastic bag
□ Bandaids in plastic bag
□ Garmin 305
Run Special Needs
□ Socks in plastic bag
□ Short sleeve shirt in plastic bag
□ Long sleeve shirt in plastic bag
□ Shoes in plastic bag
□ Bandaids in plastic bag
□ Vaseline
I printed 4 copies of each, stapled one to each bag, put two copies in each bag and then the last copy in a three ring binder. This Binder also included the Ironman Athlete Guide and an hour by hour schedule covering the drive up right through the day after the race.
Tonight I'll spread the bags out in the living room, along with every piece of tri gear i own, and I will sort it all out and make a shopping list for whats missing.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
supernatural running
July 15, 2009
Thanks to Rich Strauss and Buddha Shakyamuni.
You guys got my head right.
The guys at Endurance Nation provided great guidance on ironman execution. Coach Roach told a story about writing "patience" and "discipline" on his forearms, to remind himself not to blow up chasing cyclists too early in the day. Their mantra "Race Day is about EXECUTION, not FITNESS.” is hammered home in their race kits at triathlonexecution.com, with both general strategy and detailed course guidance.
This morning I was reading Mahamudra Tantra by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Mahamudra is a very specific set of meditation instructions intened to aid in the realization of the "very subtle mind", a supremly peaceful and powerful state of conciousness. Geshela makes reference to Jetsun Milarepa, a Tibetan Yogi, who attained Mahamudra Tantra without the instructions, but instead "through patience and determination".
(Parenthetically, Milarepa boasted of having “crossed in a few days, a distance which, before his training had taken him more than a month." He ascribed his gift to the clever control of ‘internal air’.)
This really is speaking to me. At this point I can do nothign further to improve my skills and abilities and fitness. Only through patiently applying my available abilities, knowing and then keeping concious of my purpose for racing, can i acheive a satisfactory result.
Kerrie asked me last week if i was ready, and why exactly I was doing this. I didnt have an answer then, but i think i have one now. As she suggested, the first reason I am doign this is because i can. And the reason that will get me through the day and the last, dark 6 miles of the marathon: becuase i can do this with a smile on my face, finishign happy and strong.
I need to start to think about packing.
Thanks to Rich Strauss and Buddha Shakyamuni.
You guys got my head right.
The guys at Endurance Nation provided great guidance on ironman execution. Coach Roach told a story about writing "patience" and "discipline" on his forearms, to remind himself not to blow up chasing cyclists too early in the day. Their mantra "Race Day is about EXECUTION, not FITNESS.” is hammered home in their race kits at triathlonexecution.com, with both general strategy and detailed course guidance.
This morning I was reading Mahamudra Tantra by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Mahamudra is a very specific set of meditation instructions intened to aid in the realization of the "very subtle mind", a supremly peaceful and powerful state of conciousness. Geshela makes reference to Jetsun Milarepa, a Tibetan Yogi, who attained Mahamudra Tantra without the instructions, but instead "through patience and determination".
(Parenthetically, Milarepa boasted of having “crossed in a few days, a distance which, before his training had taken him more than a month." He ascribed his gift to the clever control of ‘internal air’.)
This really is speaking to me. At this point I can do nothign further to improve my skills and abilities and fitness. Only through patiently applying my available abilities, knowing and then keeping concious of my purpose for racing, can i acheive a satisfactory result.
Kerrie asked me last week if i was ready, and why exactly I was doing this. I didnt have an answer then, but i think i have one now. As she suggested, the first reason I am doign this is because i can. And the reason that will get me through the day and the last, dark 6 miles of the marathon: becuase i can do this with a smile on my face, finishign happy and strong.
I need to start to think about packing.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Normally before an execution they offer you a blindfold or cigarette.
July 4, 2009
I see some tweets about final workouts and taper beginning from prospective Lake Placid Ironman participants. This is disturbing, as I have really not been training enough to call what I do next a taper. In fact, i have barely trained for the swim or run since February. I have a certain comfort level for the bike leg, having done numerous 100 + mile rides, and good familiarity with the race course from last year and a camp in June. It's really sunk in that i am facing the jaws of this beast with no prep, and no time to do anything about it.
Last year I finished Tupper Lake Tinman 70.3 in just under 7:00, so am assuming something around 14:00 for Lake Placid. That assumption was made at the end of last season. Now with my nonexistent training, I am looking at the cut off times, and figuring max time for the swim and biking until the bike cutoff at 530pm, i would have 6:30 to finish the marathon. That would bring me to 17:00, the midnight cutoff.
I reached out to Coach Adam for some advice on how to attack the race. His advice is to focus on 'keep moving forward' and don't burn out in the first 10 miles of the run. Thanks Adam, very helpful indeed.
I also called on Pat and Rich of Endurance Nation for their advice. Beyond the excellent training plans they provide, they have also produced an amazing array of online resources and assistance. "Race day is about execution, not fitness". Seems right up my alley.
I see some tweets about final workouts and taper beginning from prospective Lake Placid Ironman participants. This is disturbing, as I have really not been training enough to call what I do next a taper. In fact, i have barely trained for the swim or run since February. I have a certain comfort level for the bike leg, having done numerous 100 + mile rides, and good familiarity with the race course from last year and a camp in June. It's really sunk in that i am facing the jaws of this beast with no prep, and no time to do anything about it.
Last year I finished Tupper Lake Tinman 70.3 in just under 7:00, so am assuming something around 14:00 for Lake Placid. That assumption was made at the end of last season. Now with my nonexistent training, I am looking at the cut off times, and figuring max time for the swim and biking until the bike cutoff at 530pm, i would have 6:30 to finish the marathon. That would bring me to 17:00, the midnight cutoff.
I reached out to Coach Adam for some advice on how to attack the race. His advice is to focus on 'keep moving forward' and don't burn out in the first 10 miles of the run. Thanks Adam, very helpful indeed.
I also called on Pat and Rich of Endurance Nation for their advice. Beyond the excellent training plans they provide, they have also produced an amazing array of online resources and assistance. "Race day is about execution, not fitness". Seems right up my alley.
Monday, September 7, 2009
A lesson learned about lessons learned.
Now, 6 weeks after my first Ironman at Lake Placid, NY, I find I have still not begun my race report. It's particularly remarkable considering the achievement. I mean, if i could do Ironman, why cant i write a little race report? The fact that i finished in over 16 hours simply indicates I have a certain degree of determination and stamina, an ability to finish what I start.
And there's the lesson, which I learned so well On July 26, and which I apparently forgot already. The key to finishing is - beginning. And here's the other lesson. Use what you learn.
I will begin this race report and it will be in serial format. It will be in present tense, from the best of my recollection. I hope you enjoy my story as much as i enjoyed living it.
And there's the lesson, which I learned so well On July 26, and which I apparently forgot already. The key to finishing is - beginning. And here's the other lesson. Use what you learn.
I will begin this race report and it will be in serial format. It will be in present tense, from the best of my recollection. I hope you enjoy my story as much as i enjoyed living it.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
My Ironman Happy Ending
Ironman Lake Placid 2009
16:17:37
Race report to follow. For now,
I'm going to DisneyWorld.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
you may have been wondering...
You may have been wondering about me, my training and the status of this blog. (Maybe not ;) )
Some time back I started a series of posts on dietary cleansing and ayurvedic eating, never finished. Stopped blogging on my training status. Haven't been logging much on Buckeye. Raced Tupper Lake "Sprint", did Lake Placid camp, but never blogged on it.
Now with 10 days to race day, I feel i need to put my affairs in order. Gees that sounds a little ominous. But no time like the present. And I am thinking I will certainly be blogging my race report and remainder of season, so it'd be good to tie up some loose ends here.
There will be more to come in the next few days. Let me start by addressing the training issue, and my readiness. Due to some unanticipated personal and health issues, I virtually started my taper in February. I have done some long rides, and I am most comfortable thinning about the 112 mile bike leg. I haven't swam more than a dozen times since last October. I am pretty confident I can make the swim cutoff, that's my goal. My longest run this year has been about 10 miles. I have done some 5K and 10K races, one hilly 15k in March, and I have gotten faster, but I am not sure how my body holds up for a whole marathon.
In short, I am overweight and under trained. Yipee, here we go!
Some time back I started a series of posts on dietary cleansing and ayurvedic eating, never finished. Stopped blogging on my training status. Haven't been logging much on Buckeye. Raced Tupper Lake "Sprint", did Lake Placid camp, but never blogged on it.
Now with 10 days to race day, I feel i need to put my affairs in order. Gees that sounds a little ominous. But no time like the present. And I am thinking I will certainly be blogging my race report and remainder of season, so it'd be good to tie up some loose ends here.
There will be more to come in the next few days. Let me start by addressing the training issue, and my readiness. Due to some unanticipated personal and health issues, I virtually started my taper in February. I have done some long rides, and I am most comfortable thinning about the 112 mile bike leg. I haven't swam more than a dozen times since last October. I am pretty confident I can make the swim cutoff, that's my goal. My longest run this year has been about 10 miles. I have done some 5K and 10K races, one hilly 15k in March, and I have gotten faster, but I am not sure how my body holds up for a whole marathon.
In short, I am overweight and under trained. Yipee, here we go!
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