Swim Start:
Monday, October 15, 2007
Sunday, September 16, 2007
And more pics from the race...
Here are some misc pictures from the trip... 
When Frank came in on the run, his slow run was steady. He finished in 16:55:30-something. When he came in they played Ozzy Ozbourn's "I Am Ironman" and everyone was chanting, "We want Frank!" He came in and collapsed with he crossed the line. But, he IS GOING TO KONA!, and he was the last Ironman athlete that crossed before midnight.
At the awards ceremony, I asked him if I could get a picture with him. He was polite and very sweet. What an inspiration!
It was his first Ironman that he won. I mentioned his speech, with the "fucking hard" portion. But he was adorable, very humble and it seemed he was in awe that people were taking him seriously.
I walked up to him, and asked for a picture, the little buck actually was surprised I asked. After my picture with him, someone else thought it was a good idea and asked for a picture with him too. As he walked away from his "15 minutes" I heard his friend say to him, "Your famous!"
Very cute... shame he doesn't speak English very well and lives in Germany! Darn!
One, Heather Fuhr... she's on my "what it takes" DVD. Amazing Ironman athlete!
Three, Paul Huddle... Multisport extraordinaire. Last picture I had with him, he was in him whitie, tighties! He was in charge of the bike course for Wisconsin!
Four... Miguel! HOT, need I say more!? And quite a personality on this one! When I approached the three, someone asked if I wanted Miguel in the picture. After one look I said "ABSOLUTELY!" HOT! HOT! Did I say, HOT??
Thanks to my parents for flying out to Wisconsin to support me!
As well as Rick and Julie!
78 year old, Frank. AMAZING!
He battled cancer and was told he had 3 months to live. He asked the doctor if he could still compete in Ironmans, and the doctor said, "It's not going to kill you".
When Frank came in on the run, his slow run was steady. He finished in 16:55:30-something. When he came in they played Ozzy Ozbourn's "I Am Ironman" and everyone was chanting, "We want Frank!" He came in and collapsed with he crossed the line. But, he IS GOING TO KONA!, and he was the last Ironman athlete that crossed before midnight.
At the awards ceremony, I asked him if I could get a picture with him. He was polite and very sweet. What an inspiration!
And then there was the first place winner!
It was his first Ironman that he won. I mentioned his speech, with the "fucking hard" portion. But he was adorable, very humble and it seemed he was in awe that people were taking him seriously.
After the award ceremony, my mom and I were waiting for my dad and Patrick. The first place winner walked by, and I mentioned to my mom how he was EXACTLY my type: tall about 6'4" and dark hair and oblivious that anyone found him talented or handsome. "He was fucking HOT!" I had to get a picture with him! ... well, because he was the first place winner, of course!
I walked up to him, and asked for a picture, the little buck actually was surprised I asked. After my picture with him, someone else thought it was a good idea and asked for a picture with him too. As he walked away from his "15 minutes" I heard his friend say to him, "Your famous!"
Very cute... shame he doesn't speak English very well and lives in Germany! Darn!
I call this HEAVEN!
One, Heather Fuhr... she's on my "what it takes" DVD. Amazing Ironman athlete!
Two, Paula Newby-Fraser... 8 time Ironman Championship winner (the most wins for an individual!)
Three, Paul Huddle... Multisport extraordinaire. Last picture I had with him, he was in him whitie, tighties! He was in charge of the bike course for Wisconsin!
Four... Miguel! HOT, need I say more!? And quite a personality on this one! When I approached the three, someone asked if I wanted Miguel in the picture. After one look I said "ABSOLUTELY!" HOT! HOT! Did I say, HOT??
And a man I managed to get!
I liked him best! ;) Well, not exactly, but he at least let me attack him.
Ironman Wisconsin 2007
In the words of The Voice Of Ironman, Mike Riley, “You are an Ironman”… again!
Despite the difficult course, we had a great race in Wisconsin. The town is fantastic and the people welcomed the athletes with open arms. Okay… I’m
going to bore you all with some details; here are a few notes of how the race went, at least from my perspective:
Morning/Swim:
*3:45am all five alarms (yes, it’s not a typo, all FIVE alarms) went off in our room, and we rolled out of bed to complete the last minute items on the “to do” list
*4:30 on the shuttle to the race start.
*5:00 Body marking, Special needs bag drop offs, bike tires pumped, last minute drop offs to our Transition bags
*6-6:30 Met up with my parents and Rick and Julie, said our goodbyes and headed down to the start
*6:40-7 floated in the lake waiting for the day to start. 2200 athletes JUST waiting to see how their bodies will perform
*7:00am the cannon went off and “washing machine” began! I know I got hit in the head at least 4-5 times and kicked in the ribs numerous times. In one word, the swim was… hostel!
Patrick’s time out of the water: 1:08:37
Shannon’s time out of the water: 1:18:18
Bike:
*In the words of the first place winner from Germany, “The bike, it was fucking hard, yeah!”
*Whoever, says its “rolling hills” is a liar! Jump on the bike, eat a few calories, and drink some water… and BAM, hill, after hill, after hill!
*There are however, three MONSTEROUS hills on the back end of each loop. Here there were people lined on each hill cheering you on. It was AMAZING!
*After the third big, big hill, we came down into the town of Verona and were welcomed by all the spectators that had taken a shuttle to see us. It was awesome because we felt like we were in the Tour de France! Cowbells, signs, people lining the street. We rode past Julie and Rick, then my parents… what a nice feeling to see familiar faces cheering you on!
*Onto the second loop which honestly made me want to cry. We trained a lot on the Santiago Canyon loop and yet my quads were still wiped out!
*Heading back to the Transition area we were welcomed with a nice hard headwind, then had to ride up the Helix (parking structure) to the fifth floor (just cruel!). 112 miles on the bike, and they thank us by making us climb one more hill!
*At the top of the helix were my parents and Julie and Rick cheering for us. For a split second I forgot about the pain in my neck, my lower back, my butt, my legs… not sure, but I think even my hair hurt at that time! *Coming into transition, I dismounted my bike, handed it to the volunteer and looked her dead in the eye and said, “I have some special instructions for you about my bike…. THROW IT IN THE LAKE!” As I ran off, I heard her laughing and telling the next person what I’d said. To be honest, I really didn’t think my bike would be on the rack after the race but in the bottom of Lake Monona!
Patrick’s Bike Time: 6:55:47
Shannon’s Bike Time: 7:33:51
Run:
*Onto the run… Now, the race begins!
*After changing clothes in the changing tent, run outside and have a volunteer apply sunscreen to your already sun burnt body.
*Both Patrick and I admit, we were so excited to finally head out for the run that we went out a bit too fast in the beginning. You know you are in trouble when you start passing people like it’s a 10k (when in fact it’s a marathon… after 114.4 miles), and people in the crowd are surprised at how fast you are going.
*When we started our first loop, we saw the gang again and smiled and waved wildly (again feeling way too happy to be on the run).
*The run course was also a two loop course and it took you through the college, U of W. The worst part of it was a hill on Observatory Road that required you to walk in order to save your energy.
*I was bummed because unlike last Ironman where I met Maureen from San Fran on mile 4, I did not find someone that was the same pace as me to talk with this marathon. That meant I was literally on my own to finish.
*Loop one felt great! Saw the gang at least 4-5 times
*Starting loop two, I stopped by special needs, chatted with my mom for a bit, then grabbed my snacks and hit the road (for the record, Gummy Worms are the best snack for a marathon!)
*Second loop proved to slap us both in the face with a little melt down. The legs finally started to speak and tell us they weren’t exactly thrilled with what we were doing to them today.
*For me, I realized my time in Canada wasn’t going to happen, but if I picked up the pace (significantly) I had a chance of coming in under 14 hours. So I did what anyone else would do with 8 miles left in the race… I picked it up.
*Again, a little worried when you are “speeding” by everyone and the volunteers and spectators aren’t necessarily cheering you on, but surprised you are racing in. I was on a mission and I didn’t care if it meant I was collapsing at the finish to meet my goal.
*Needless to say I pulled sub 10’s on the last part of the run, made up some time and finished with my goal!
Patrick’s run time: 4:56:17
Shannon’s Run time: 4:47:02
Finish:
Everyone keeps asking what it feels like to cross the line after a race like this. Truly it’s hard to explain, but in a split second as you run down the chute and the lights are on you, the crowd is cheering you on, and the announcer is calling your name… it hits you that all that hard work paid off and you did what you set out to do, complete 140.5 miles, and you are proud! You can’t believe your body and mind pushed you through those hard times (yes, I did think of quitting a few times on the bike) and that you just traveled 140.6 miles! You are emotional, excited, and in shock.
Patrick’s FINISHING TIME: 13:19:11
Shannon’s FINISHING TIME: 13:55:34
Just for the record, Patrick had an amazing race on a difficult course. He killed his Personal Best from the last Ironman by knocking off 2 ½ hours off his time!
Again, a huge thanks to everyone that left us voice messages, text message, and emails wishing us good luck! You have no idea how motivating those simple words of encouragement are to us, especially when we start to doubt our ability. Thanks for being our support and our coaches!
Next?
So will we do another one???
Patrick says, “Yes!”
Shannon says “I’m not saying no”
Needless to say, we both want to get our lives back by spending time with family and friends again. The race isn’t the hard part; it’s the training and the time it takes away from our normal lives.
So, next season we both think ½ Ironmans will suit us fine!
Despite the difficult course, we had a great race in Wisconsin. The town is fantastic and the people welcomed the athletes with open arms. Okay… I’m
going to bore you all with some details; here are a few notes of how the race went, at least from my perspective:
Morning/Swim:
*3:45am all five alarms (yes, it’s not a typo, all FIVE alarms) went off in our room, and we rolled out of bed to complete the last minute items on the “to do” list
*4:30 on the shuttle to the race start.
*5:00 Body marking, Special needs bag drop offs, bike tires pumped, last minute drop offs to our Transition bags
*6-6:30 Met up with my parents and Rick and Julie, said our goodbyes and headed down to the start
*6:40-7 floated in the lake waiting for the day to start. 2200 athletes JUST waiting to see how their bodies will perform
*7:00am the cannon went off and “washing machine” began! I know I got hit in the head at least 4-5 times and kicked in the ribs numerous times. In one word, the swim was… hostel!
Patrick’s time out of the water: 1:08:37
Shannon’s time out of the water: 1:18:18
Bike:
*In the words of the first place winner from Germany, “The bike, it was fucking hard, yeah!”
*Whoever, says its “rolling hills” is a liar! Jump on the bike, eat a few calories, and drink some water… and BAM, hill, after hill, after hill!
*There are however, three MONSTEROUS hills on the back end of each loop. Here there were people lined on each hill cheering you on. It was AMAZING!
*After the third big, big hill, we came down into the town of Verona and were welcomed by all the spectators that had taken a shuttle to see us. It was awesome because we felt like we were in the Tour de France! Cowbells, signs, people lining the street. We rode past Julie and Rick, then my parents… what a nice feeling to see familiar faces cheering you on!
*Onto the second loop which honestly made me want to cry. We trained a lot on the Santiago Canyon loop and yet my quads were still wiped out!
*Heading back to the Transition area we were welcomed with a nice hard headwind, then had to ride up the Helix (parking structure) to the fifth floor (just cruel!). 112 miles on the bike, and they thank us by making us climb one more hill!
*At the top of the helix were my parents and Julie and Rick cheering for us. For a split second I forgot about the pain in my neck, my lower back, my butt, my legs… not sure, but I think even my hair hurt at that time! *Coming into transition, I dismounted my bike, handed it to the volunteer and looked her dead in the eye and said, “I have some special instructions for you about my bike…. THROW IT IN THE LAKE!” As I ran off, I heard her laughing and telling the next person what I’d said. To be honest, I really didn’t think my bike would be on the rack after the race but in the bottom of Lake Monona!
Patrick’s Bike Time: 6:55:47
Shannon’s Bike Time: 7:33:51
Run:
*Onto the run… Now, the race begins!
*After changing clothes in the changing tent, run outside and have a volunteer apply sunscreen to your already sun burnt body.
*Both Patrick and I admit, we were so excited to finally head out for the run that we went out a bit too fast in the beginning. You know you are in trouble when you start passing people like it’s a 10k (when in fact it’s a marathon… after 114.4 miles), and people in the crowd are surprised at how fast you are going.
*When we started our first loop, we saw the gang again and smiled and waved wildly (again feeling way too happy to be on the run).
*The run course was also a two loop course and it took you through the college, U of W. The worst part of it was a hill on Observatory Road that required you to walk in order to save your energy.
*I was bummed because unlike last Ironman where I met Maureen from San Fran on mile 4, I did not find someone that was the same pace as me to talk with this marathon. That meant I was literally on my own to finish.
*Loop one felt great! Saw the gang at least 4-5 times
*Starting loop two, I stopped by special needs, chatted with my mom for a bit, then grabbed my snacks and hit the road (for the record, Gummy Worms are the best snack for a marathon!)
*Second loop proved to slap us both in the face with a little melt down. The legs finally started to speak and tell us they weren’t exactly thrilled with what we were doing to them today.
*For me, I realized my time in Canada wasn’t going to happen, but if I picked up the pace (significantly) I had a chance of coming in under 14 hours. So I did what anyone else would do with 8 miles left in the race… I picked it up.
*Again, a little worried when you are “speeding” by everyone and the volunteers and spectators aren’t necessarily cheering you on, but surprised you are racing in. I was on a mission and I didn’t care if it meant I was collapsing at the finish to meet my goal.
*Needless to say I pulled sub 10’s on the last part of the run, made up some time and finished with my goal!
Patrick’s run time: 4:56:17
Shannon’s Run time: 4:47:02
Finish:
Everyone keeps asking what it feels like to cross the line after a race like this. Truly it’s hard to explain, but in a split second as you run down the chute and the lights are on you, the crowd is cheering you on, and the announcer is calling your name… it hits you that all that hard work paid off and you did what you set out to do, complete 140.5 miles, and you are proud! You can’t believe your body and mind pushed you through those hard times (yes, I did think of quitting a few times on the bike) and that you just traveled 140.6 miles! You are emotional, excited, and in shock.
Patrick’s FINISHING TIME: 13:19:11
Shannon’s FINISHING TIME: 13:55:34
Just for the record, Patrick had an amazing race on a difficult course. He killed his Personal Best from the last Ironman by knocking off 2 ½ hours off his time!
Again, a huge thanks to everyone that left us voice messages, text message, and emails wishing us good luck! You have no idea how motivating those simple words of encouragement are to us, especially when we start to doubt our ability. Thanks for being our support and our coaches!
Next?
So will we do another one???
Patrick says, “Yes!”
Shannon says “I’m not saying no”
Needless to say, we both want to get our lives back by spending time with family and friends again. The race isn’t the hard part; it’s the training and the time it takes away from our normal lives.
So, next season we both think ½ Ironmans will suit us fine!
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
YIKES - 4 days out!
Patrick and I made it to Wisconsin today. And I can tell you... just like my initial thought in Canada... EVERYONE IS FIT AND INTIMIDATING! Yikes! We left OC and a tough looking woman with an Ironman Backpack and tattoo was next to us. Patrick and I did a double take and laughed. Then we get to Wisconsin, and people outside our hotel look like they came out of the advertisement from Triathlete Magazine.
Yup, Patrick and I continue to bicker. At least we can laugh about it. But we bickered about the plan when we got here, if we should get a GPS for the car, if we should tour the capitol when we are here... to name a few...
LOVE Madison... reminds me of Chico. Today we went to dinner at The Great Dane Bar and Grill (per the Sheraton hotel's recommendation) and I ordered ale beers and the richest pasta dish ever! After five bites I was done! Then we headed over to Genna's for another beer. I had "Capitol" ale... pretty good.
Anyway, tomorrow will be packed:
Wake up at 7am (that's 5am PCT!)
Run (20 mins)
Breakfast
Ironman Village.... to BUY OUT THE MERCHANDISING TENT!!!!
Pick up the bikes
Quick swim in the lake
Ride the run course
Check out the capitol
And maybe do the Duck Tour (amphibious tour)
Busy day, and getting more anxious and excited as the days go by. we are looking forward to the city picking up with more triathletes.
Off to bed... easy to sleep tonight... I've been exhausted lately!
Yup, Patrick and I continue to bicker. At least we can laugh about it. But we bickered about the plan when we got here, if we should get a GPS for the car, if we should tour the capitol when we are here... to name a few...
LOVE Madison... reminds me of Chico. Today we went to dinner at The Great Dane Bar and Grill (per the Sheraton hotel's recommendation) and I ordered ale beers and the richest pasta dish ever! After five bites I was done! Then we headed over to Genna's for another beer. I had "Capitol" ale... pretty good.
Anyway, tomorrow will be packed:
Wake up at 7am (that's 5am PCT!)
Run (20 mins)
Breakfast
Ironman Village.... to BUY OUT THE MERCHANDISING TENT!!!!
Pick up the bikes
Quick swim in the lake
Ride the run course
Check out the capitol
And maybe do the Duck Tour (amphibious tour)
Busy day, and getting more anxious and excited as the days go by. we are looking forward to the city picking up with more triathletes.
Off to bed... easy to sleep tonight... I've been exhausted lately!
Friday, August 31, 2007
Week 24 - I guess that means I have to finish!
Work made an announcement that I was doing the Ironman in a few days... now it's out there. No flying under the radar. People expect me to finish, otherwise I have to come home and face everyone. Ah, the pressure!
I'm really starting to get nervous. I'm a bit emotional, and extremely TIRED. According to the articles I've read, this is normal. My body is in a rebuilding cycle, and the energy is being spent to rebuild my muscles... only to be broken down on 9/9.
The goal these next few days (9 to be exact!) is to avoid getting sick, stay healthy, be fit, and catch up on sleep. I just wish I could wrap myself up in bubblewrap and protect myself from any potential danger. (I always hear about people stubbing/breaking their toe a few weeks before and technically, not supposed to run - but of course, do)
I saw my nutritionist on Tuesday. She wants me to cut back on the alcohol and adjust my nutrition a tad for the taper. More Fish Oil, a slight increase on Carbs ("just round up"), and stick to everything else the same.
To be honest, I'm "checked out". I feel the end right around the corner and I'm anxious to get there. I just hop I don't bypass the race trying to get there. As the cliche goes... it's the journey to get there that makes it worth it.
Strategy for the race:
Be mellow
Don't get caught up too much in the excitement
Absorb it all! The crowds, the scuba divers, the swim, the city, the fields, the people, the other competitors, the finish, the metal and the joy!
One discipline at a time! Focus on the swim, when I'm in the swim, focus on the bike, when I'm on the bike, focus on each mile I run during the run
Thank every volunteer
HAVE A GOOD TIME!
This week's accomplishments:
Mon: swim with wetsuit
Tues: nothing
Wed: SO tired I slept in
Thurs: Shipped off bike, wetsuit and most of my gear
Fri: I'm typing this... does it count?
Sat: One last run with my runners & maybe a swim
Sun: Don't know or maybe a swim
Mon: Watch the Disney 1/2
Tues: Last day of work
Wed: Fly out to Wisconsin (dear god, please make sure we can meet our connecting flight!)
Out there... I expect we will have plenty to do to get us ready for the race.
Until then!
I'm really starting to get nervous. I'm a bit emotional, and extremely TIRED. According to the articles I've read, this is normal. My body is in a rebuilding cycle, and the energy is being spent to rebuild my muscles... only to be broken down on 9/9.
The goal these next few days (9 to be exact!) is to avoid getting sick, stay healthy, be fit, and catch up on sleep. I just wish I could wrap myself up in bubblewrap and protect myself from any potential danger. (I always hear about people stubbing/breaking their toe a few weeks before and technically, not supposed to run - but of course, do)
I saw my nutritionist on Tuesday. She wants me to cut back on the alcohol and adjust my nutrition a tad for the taper. More Fish Oil, a slight increase on Carbs ("just round up"), and stick to everything else the same.
To be honest, I'm "checked out". I feel the end right around the corner and I'm anxious to get there. I just hop I don't bypass the race trying to get there. As the cliche goes... it's the journey to get there that makes it worth it.
Strategy for the race:
Be mellow
Don't get caught up too much in the excitement
Absorb it all! The crowds, the scuba divers, the swim, the city, the fields, the people, the other competitors, the finish, the metal and the joy!
One discipline at a time! Focus on the swim, when I'm in the swim, focus on the bike, when I'm on the bike, focus on each mile I run during the run
Thank every volunteer
HAVE A GOOD TIME!
This week's accomplishments:
Mon: swim with wetsuit
Tues: nothing
Wed: SO tired I slept in
Thurs: Shipped off bike, wetsuit and most of my gear
Fri: I'm typing this... does it count?
Sat: One last run with my runners & maybe a swim
Sun: Don't know or maybe a swim
Mon: Watch the Disney 1/2
Tues: Last day of work
Wed: Fly out to Wisconsin (dear god, please make sure we can meet our connecting flight!)
Out there... I expect we will have plenty to do to get us ready for the race.
Until then!
Friday, August 24, 2007
Week 22 & 23 - Dear God, please don't say I peaked!
This week was good. No real complaints. To be honest, I haven't been as disciplined with my workouts, but then again, I've been at it for 5 1/2 months (or longer).
This Week's Accomplishments:
Mon: Massage with Marisol & Swim (70 mins)
Tues: Run (60 mins)
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thur: Nothing
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (3:04 hours) 20 miles
Sun: Bike (2:24) & run (30 min)
Holly Shit! I did my last LONG workout! Saturday's run was awesome (dear God, please don't say I just peaked in my training!), and I was surprised at how well I did. I set out on the run with my runners for their (also) last long run of 12 miles. My Dad 'manned' the aid station - which we all loved - and we all hit the HOT trail. I came back with the first group, slapped high fives with them, then turned around and headed out for (what I thought would only be) 6 more miles. It was hot, my body was tired, and yes, I considered turning in early. Yet, I stuck it out and finish the 18 miles... BUT not my three hours! Shit! I had to go back out! I must admit that I was proud, that I could dig deep within and go back out for 2 more miles. And actually, I felt pretty good!
The Next Week's Accompishments:
Mon: Swim (70 mins)
Tues: Track (60 mins)
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thur: Nothing
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (60 mins)
Sun: Bike (3:34)
You read in articles how taper is actually as "relaxing" as you thought. You feel crappy: tired, achy, non motivated (is that a term??). I was tired at Monday's swim, and just hung at the back of the lane. Hey, I'm still recovering from that 3 hours, right?? Then I took it easy at track practice. I started out with the fast, girl pack, then due to heartrate (loves to keep me honest) I backed off... a LOT! I am really starting to like this group, some great runners that push me, and very friendly. Back to swim Wednesday for a tough set. Then, "off" Thursday and Friday. Saturday was a breezy run and Sunday was a tough battle to get Patrick to agree to only do 3:45 hours on the bike. I do NOT have motivation right now!!
Next week I continue on the taper... I lose my bike Thursday as it make the trip to Madison via truck. Gosh! Only 2 more weeks...
Next Week's Goals:
Mon: Swim (70 mins) with wetsuit
Tues: Track (60 mins)
Wed: Swim (70 mins) with wetsuit
Thur: Spin class & 15-20 min run
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (50-60 mins)
Sun: Bike (120-150 min) & run (15-20 min)
(Monday, my runners compete in their race: Disney 1/2 Marathon!)
Ok, GEEZ, I hope it all comes together on 9/9. I pray that I won't get a flat, or have bike problems (for that matter), I pray I don't get a migraine during the race (like I did for my first Triathlon), I pray the weather holds up, I pray my nutrition works, I pray it all "clicks" on race day! Out of my hands now... I've done all I can, and what I didn't do... well, I can't do anything about it now!
This Week's Accomplishments:
Mon: Massage with Marisol & Swim (70 mins)
Tues: Run (60 mins)
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thur: Nothing
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (3:04 hours) 20 miles
Sun: Bike (2:24) & run (30 min)
Holly Shit! I did my last LONG workout! Saturday's run was awesome (dear God, please don't say I just peaked in my training!), and I was surprised at how well I did. I set out on the run with my runners for their (also) last long run of 12 miles. My Dad 'manned' the aid station - which we all loved - and we all hit the HOT trail. I came back with the first group, slapped high fives with them, then turned around and headed out for (what I thought would only be) 6 more miles. It was hot, my body was tired, and yes, I considered turning in early. Yet, I stuck it out and finish the 18 miles... BUT not my three hours! Shit! I had to go back out! I must admit that I was proud, that I could dig deep within and go back out for 2 more miles. And actually, I felt pretty good!
The Next Week's Accompishments:
Mon: Swim (70 mins)
Tues: Track (60 mins)
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thur: Nothing
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (60 mins)
Sun: Bike (3:34)
You read in articles how taper is actually as "relaxing" as you thought. You feel crappy: tired, achy, non motivated (is that a term??). I was tired at Monday's swim, and just hung at the back of the lane. Hey, I'm still recovering from that 3 hours, right?? Then I took it easy at track practice. I started out with the fast, girl pack, then due to heartrate (loves to keep me honest) I backed off... a LOT! I am really starting to like this group, some great runners that push me, and very friendly. Back to swim Wednesday for a tough set. Then, "off" Thursday and Friday. Saturday was a breezy run and Sunday was a tough battle to get Patrick to agree to only do 3:45 hours on the bike. I do NOT have motivation right now!!
Next week I continue on the taper... I lose my bike Thursday as it make the trip to Madison via truck. Gosh! Only 2 more weeks...
Next Week's Goals:
Mon: Swim (70 mins) with wetsuit
Tues: Track (60 mins)
Wed: Swim (70 mins) with wetsuit
Thur: Spin class & 15-20 min run
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (50-60 mins)
Sun: Bike (120-150 min) & run (15-20 min)
(Monday, my runners compete in their race: Disney 1/2 Marathon!)
Ok, GEEZ, I hope it all comes together on 9/9. I pray that I won't get a flat, or have bike problems (for that matter), I pray I don't get a migraine during the race (like I did for my first Triathlon), I pray the weather holds up, I pray my nutrition works, I pray it all "clicks" on race day! Out of my hands now... I've done all I can, and what I didn't do... well, I can't do anything about it now!
Monday, August 13, 2007
Week 20 & 21- Are we there yet??
It's been a long 5 months and I'm ready to get on with the race! These past few weeks, I admit, I've not been very good. I don't know if it was because of the race and I'm recovering, or my Birthday that I celebrated, or that I'm worn down and getting "sick". I just took it easy and slept in when necessary. In my mind, there was no reason to push it if I didn't need to.
This week's accomplishments 7/30:
Mon: Swim 70 mins
Tues: Track work, 5 miles (just over an hour)
Wed: Swim 70 mins
Thur: Core Class (no bike)
Fri: off
Sat: Run 10 miles (my birthday - a good day running with some alumni runners)
Sun: Off - NO way I was going to bike with that hang over!
I really made sure to enjoy my birthday. I'd worked so hard, sacrificed a few nights out with friends and families in the past few months, that I deserved a night to enjoy! I had friends in town and lots of good wine (and a lovely cop!).
This week's accomplishments (8/6):
Mon: nothing
Tues: nothing
Wed: nothing
Thurs: Peter's Canyon trail Run 5 miles
Fri: off
Sat: 14 mile long run
Sun: Last LONG, LONG ride (7 hours=100 miles!) & 45 min run
I think I was just worn down this week. I couldn't get out of bed, I had an infection, I was just tired! But, I did make the last long ride. It was brutal. Patrick, Kevin (new to the group) & I went out for the first of three loops in Santiago Canyon. Not more than 5 miles in, Patrick decides to cut me off and I end up in the dirt island with my bike above my head. I thought it was the end of the ride (and actually was disappointed I wouldn't get 7 hours in). However, my back derailer was slightly bent, but operable. We set off to do the first loop (plus, Modjeska Canyon- I hate that hill, but easier this time). Then back to refill the bottles at our car, and Patrick and I set off for our second loop (this time, with Live Oak - I hate this hill more!). Back to the cars one more time, only to head out for 1/2 way to our third loop. We turned around at Glenn Ranch (of course, at the top) and headed back, since we were pushing going over our training time. To the cars, one more time to "tranition" for the run. Out for 45 mins in the heat... Back to the cars (or should I say the tree that provided us a brief opportunity to nap), shower up and off to SuperMex for some much needed celebration. Adam met us for drinks, but Patrick was not doing well. Must have been the combo heat and lack of calories, but he ended up in the car passed out and not feeling well. My "iron" stomach handled two ice cold beers nicely and some Mexican food.
Now, I've just got one LONG, LONG run (3 hours) and I'm headed toward Taper Land! Woo Hoo!
Next Week's Goals:
Mon: Massage with Marisol & Swim (70 mins)
Tues: Bike (75 mins) & Run (30-40 min)
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thur: Run (70-90 mins) & core class
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (3 hours)
Sun: Bike (240-300 mins) & run (40-50 min) & core class
This week's accomplishments 7/30:
Mon: Swim 70 mins
Tues: Track work, 5 miles (just over an hour)
Wed: Swim 70 mins
Thur: Core Class (no bike)
Fri: off
Sat: Run 10 miles (my birthday - a good day running with some alumni runners)
Sun: Off - NO way I was going to bike with that hang over!
I really made sure to enjoy my birthday. I'd worked so hard, sacrificed a few nights out with friends and families in the past few months, that I deserved a night to enjoy! I had friends in town and lots of good wine (and a lovely cop!).
This week's accomplishments (8/6):
Mon: nothing
Tues: nothing
Wed: nothing
Thurs: Peter's Canyon trail Run 5 miles
Fri: off
Sat: 14 mile long run
Sun: Last LONG, LONG ride (7 hours=100 miles!) & 45 min run
I think I was just worn down this week. I couldn't get out of bed, I had an infection, I was just tired! But, I did make the last long ride. It was brutal. Patrick, Kevin (new to the group) & I went out for the first of three loops in Santiago Canyon. Not more than 5 miles in, Patrick decides to cut me off and I end up in the dirt island with my bike above my head. I thought it was the end of the ride (and actually was disappointed I wouldn't get 7 hours in). However, my back derailer was slightly bent, but operable. We set off to do the first loop (plus, Modjeska Canyon- I hate that hill, but easier this time). Then back to refill the bottles at our car, and Patrick and I set off for our second loop (this time, with Live Oak - I hate this hill more!). Back to the cars one more time, only to head out for 1/2 way to our third loop. We turned around at Glenn Ranch (of course, at the top) and headed back, since we were pushing going over our training time. To the cars, one more time to "tranition" for the run. Out for 45 mins in the heat... Back to the cars (or should I say the tree that provided us a brief opportunity to nap), shower up and off to SuperMex for some much needed celebration. Adam met us for drinks, but Patrick was not doing well. Must have been the combo heat and lack of calories, but he ended up in the car passed out and not feeling well. My "iron" stomach handled two ice cold beers nicely and some Mexican food.
Now, I've just got one LONG, LONG run (3 hours) and I'm headed toward Taper Land! Woo Hoo!
Next Week's Goals:
Mon: Massage with Marisol & Swim (70 mins)
Tues: Bike (75 mins) & Run (30-40 min)
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thur: Run (70-90 mins) & core class
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (3 hours)
Sun: Bike (240-300 mins) & run (40-50 min) & core class
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Weeks 18 & 19 - I'm making a comeback!
Been busy! Work, training, family... you know life! I
This Week's Accomplishments (7/9)
Mon: Swim (70 mins)
Tues: Bike (75 min) & Run (40 min)
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thur: Peter's Canyon Trail run (70 min)
Fri: off
Sat: Run (12 miles)
Sun: Bike (75 miles) & Run (45 mins) & Multisport Party!
I felt pretty good that week. Had a blast at the Peter's Canyon Trail Run, and enjoyed the week by going to the Multisport party. I was gearing up for Vineman the next weekend...
This week's Accomplishments (7/16):
Mon: Swim (70 mins)
Tues: off
Wed: Ran long with Patrick (masters had hard time getting pool) 7.5 miles
Thur: Core Class and packed for Vineman
Fri: off-traveled to Vineman
Sat: Easy swim to see start (20 mins) & drove course
Sun: Race Day! Swim 1.2, Bike 56, Run 13.1 = 5:41:27! (new PR!)
I had a blast in Vineman! What a way to bring back my morale! The swim was great! We swam in the Russian River and I just "drafted" off people. Then onto the bike which was totally my type of course: rolling hills and hot! I was excited because technically it was a "short" ride (remember I've been training much further). Then onto the run... it was a death march! I felt pretty good and finished that in under 2 hours. I had a blast joking with volunteers and playing with the crowd - anything to keep my mind off the hard work and have fun! It was awesome to have a friend, Adrian, come up and act as coach. Although he disapproved of my wine tasting the day before, he was great on keeping me on track.
Nutrition for the race:
2 packets of organic, plain oatmeal w/ organic raisins
coffee with cream
water, water, water
1 salt tablet
Out of Swim: Hammer Gel Gu-rasberry flavor & water
every 10 mins water
every 30-40 perpetuem (endurance strength!)
every hour, 1 salt tablet
Onto the run: hammer gel gu: apple cinnamon
water, water, water, and a gu (plain)
After race: Recoverite, Reliv, and LOTS of wine!
This week's Accomplishments (7/23)
Mon: Travel day from race
Tues: Travel day for work - chicago
Wed: Ran lake side- 6 miles super easy for recovery
Thur: Core Class
Fri: off
Sat: Easy run (6.5) with group
Sun: Stil tired from race... but, Biked 5 1/2 hours (68 miles) & Ran (2.5 miles) & Core Class
I struggled with this week... I think I was recovering and trying to baby myself to make sure I didn't blow my training on Vineman. Although it was a great day, I started to doubt if I was smart going all out like I did. Net, net, though I felt confident for Ironman and laughed at how in shape I felt.
This Week's Accomplishments (7/9)
Mon: Swim (70 mins)
Tues: Bike (75 min) & Run (40 min)
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thur: Peter's Canyon Trail run (70 min)
Fri: off
Sat: Run (12 miles)
Sun: Bike (75 miles) & Run (45 mins) & Multisport Party!
I felt pretty good that week. Had a blast at the Peter's Canyon Trail Run, and enjoyed the week by going to the Multisport party. I was gearing up for Vineman the next weekend...
This week's Accomplishments (7/16):
Mon: Swim (70 mins)
Tues: off
Wed: Ran long with Patrick (masters had hard time getting pool) 7.5 miles
Thur: Core Class and packed for Vineman
Fri: off-traveled to Vineman
Sat: Easy swim to see start (20 mins) & drove course
Sun: Race Day! Swim 1.2, Bike 56, Run 13.1 = 5:41:27! (new PR!)
I had a blast in Vineman! What a way to bring back my morale! The swim was great! We swam in the Russian River and I just "drafted" off people. Then onto the bike which was totally my type of course: rolling hills and hot! I was excited because technically it was a "short" ride (remember I've been training much further). Then onto the run... it was a death march! I felt pretty good and finished that in under 2 hours. I had a blast joking with volunteers and playing with the crowd - anything to keep my mind off the hard work and have fun! It was awesome to have a friend, Adrian, come up and act as coach. Although he disapproved of my wine tasting the day before, he was great on keeping me on track.
Nutrition for the race:
2 packets of organic, plain oatmeal w/ organic raisins
coffee with cream
water, water, water
1 salt tablet
Out of Swim: Hammer Gel Gu-rasberry flavor & water
every 10 mins water
every 30-40 perpetuem (endurance strength!)
every hour, 1 salt tablet
Onto the run: hammer gel gu: apple cinnamon
water, water, water, and a gu (plain)
After race: Recoverite, Reliv, and LOTS of wine!
This week's Accomplishments (7/23)
Mon: Travel day from race
Tues: Travel day for work - chicago
Wed: Ran lake side- 6 miles super easy for recovery
Thur: Core Class
Fri: off
Sat: Easy run (6.5) with group
Sun: Stil tired from race... but, Biked 5 1/2 hours (68 miles) & Ran (2.5 miles) & Core Class
I struggled with this week... I think I was recovering and trying to baby myself to make sure I didn't blow my training on Vineman. Although it was a great day, I started to doubt if I was smart going all out like I did. Net, net, though I felt confident for Ironman and laughed at how in shape I felt.
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