My third Ironman finish is the books. And even though it was a rough experience at times, it was satisfying overall. So much has happened over the last few weeks that I am going to relfect back in snippets. Love that word: snippet. As defined in the dictionary, snippet is a small collection of fragments.
My first snippet then goes back to the run portion of the race and specifically at Mile 10. This is where I had trouble in 2007 and again in 2009. Why start here? Because I think this is what has defined my IM racing career. Mile 10.
In 2007, I had trouble with the Orange Gatorade Endurance on the bike. It just didn't sit well and ended up tying my stomach in knots. This year, even though they were giving out Lemon-Lime, I decided to use my own nutrition plan. I replaced the Gatorade with Heed. Heed is made by Hammer Nutrition and contains no High Fructose Corn Syrup. I thought this was the answer. Everything seemed to be going well nutrition wise on the bike. At Special Needs, between the two loops, I replaced my three bottles of Heed with some new olcd bottles from my bag. But it was getting hotter and hotter out. There was some humidity in the air and on the 2nd bike loop the wind seemed to kick up a few notches. I was still drinking a little Heed but slowing down. I kept with the water and was getting some Powerbar gel tabs down. I thought I was ok. I thought this would work.
But when I started the run, I was hungry. This alarmed me because you just can't replace everything at once. Plus, how was I going to get 200 calories per hour into my system? They were giving away orange Gatorade at the aid stations and I avoided it. If it had been Lemon-Lime, I would have ventured to try it with a cup of ice and watered down. But no such luck. I started to sip water and take in some grapes instead. They were good and filling the hole in my stomach. I continued this for the first 100 minutes. But then suddenly the next grape I ingested broke the camel's back. This one evil grape launched my stomach into violent dry heaves. I walked, bent over, walked and then stopped. I couldn't control it and I thought I was done. I crouched down with my head over my knee and waited for it to stop. I remember many people prior to the race advising me that if you were suffering from stomach distress to stop and wait. What's 5 or 10 minutes in an Ironman? Let it pass. My plan was to start drinking cola the 2nd loop but I was thinking that I might have to start earlier. Just as that thought entered my mind, someone ran by me and asked if I was ok. Then he shouted, "drink the cola. It settles the stomach, you know." I knew but I appreciated the reminder. The decision was made and it saved me. I started moving again.
Even though my run time was not what I wanted it to be. And even though I walked more than I wanted to, it was still a good race. I picked up my pace the last 4 miles and actually felt good coming in.
Tomorrow, I start at the beginning.
July 29, 2009
July 21, 2009
Ironman Countdown: 4 Plus Days
Ironman is now about 4 days and 7 hours away. All the little aches and pains are becoming bigger than they really are. I start to focus on them and create more concern than is needed. But the bottom line is that after almost 35 weeks of training, you can't not come to the start of this race with some kind of pain. My knees, feet, back, hip and neck all suffer or have suffered from pain during my pursuit of a third IM finish. And that's what makes finishing the Ironman special. It's your ability to push through these issues and finish.
I am not looking for a finish like I had in 2007 when I walked a lot of the last 13 miles of the run. I had stomach issues and my legs were shutting down. This year I believe I've worked through those issues and come up with a good plan for eating during the bike. For my own mental state, I need to best my time by 90 minutes in order to feel that I accomplished what I set out to do. If I do then I will feel better about taking time off for the next Ironman. Which won't be for at least 4 years!
I am not looking for a finish like I had in 2007 when I walked a lot of the last 13 miles of the run. I had stomach issues and my legs were shutting down. This year I believe I've worked through those issues and come up with a good plan for eating during the bike. For my own mental state, I need to best my time by 90 minutes in order to feel that I accomplished what I set out to do. If I do then I will feel better about taking time off for the next Ironman. Which won't be for at least 4 years!
July 18, 2009
Here Comes Ironman
Ironman is 8 days away and it's taken it's toll. The stress is not over yet.
First, let's start with the family. They love Lake Placid and they love Ironman. What's not to love for them? They get to be in a beautiful place and watch me suffer! Kidding aside, it is a great place to be on race day. The buzz is unbelieveable! And it is exciting for them to watch me. But I feel guilty because this is esentially their summer vacation. So, after this one is over, it's time to take a hiatus from Ironman. Three in the last four years is a lot. The training started the week of Thanksgiving so it's a long haul. Not just on me but the family. They suffer right along with me.
Second, I've had a good training period and I feel I'm ready to post a PR. But this past week I was out on a 20 mile ride when at 12 miles in, I broke a spoke. My trusty mechanic Juan is superb at what he does. He's the one I trust the most with my bike. He repaired the wheel but he couldn't do it the way it should have been done. He had to "Jimmy it". His words of wisdom were try it out before the race and see what happens. But in the meantime "start looking for a new wheel". This did not give me the confidence I was looking for so I started exploring options. Do I buy, rent, or borrow a bike? Luckily, a friend of mine had a set of 650 Bontrager's that are in great shape. So, I'm racing on his wheels next weekend.
Finally, I am still tuning my nutrition that is oh so important during this race. In 2007, bad nutrition on the bike crippled me on the run. I had the dry heaves at mile 10 and ended up walking 90% of the last 13 miles. Not a fun day. I came to the conclusion that Gatorade makes me sick after 2 hours of drinking it. Since I will be on the bike for about 6 1/2 hours, I need to look to replace it. I have one bike ride left to figure this out. The plan is to try Heed by Hammer which contains no sugar. It has a subtle flavor and contains enough calories and electrolytes to get me through. At this stage it's a little risky to try something new but I figured 2 1/2 hours on the bike drinking it exclusively should tell me something. The plan is also to drink more water on the bike something I usually don't do enough of.
Well, the excitement is starting to build. Still a lot to do before we shove off next Thursday. But it's all good. I have to keep the stress down this week or my wife will shoot me before I even make it to the start of the swim.
July 08, 2009
I Can See the Light
The Mental Weeks are over!
The rides on the last 5 Saturday's consisted of 100, 103, Half Ironman (56 and a break!), 99 and 90. All included runs of 30 minutes afterwards. I am in Week 33 with 2 1/2 weeks to go to race day and can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Even though I am in taper there is still a lot of work to be done, don't get me wrong, but the end is near. This Saturday the ride is 60 miles with a 1 hour run to follow and it feels like I'll be on vacation. I might be home before 1 PM!!
It's at this point where you just can't wait for it to be over. Slowly you inch towards race week and the anticipation will start to build.
I also don't want anything stupid to happen. Don't trip and fall over the dog or catch your foot in the car door. No way. Stay safe.
I have a tightness in my left hip/left upper leg area which is of a concern. But at this point, if I had to do the IM today, I could. So, it's all about allowing it to heal and landing in one piece. If I have to skip a workout, I will. if I have to cut it short then I'll do that too.
I haven't felt like writing but will try to get more of the next 2 1/2 weeks written down. This is number 3 for me and I will then be going on IM hiatus. I may have to change the name of this blog!
The rides on the last 5 Saturday's consisted of 100, 103, Half Ironman (56 and a break!), 99 and 90. All included runs of 30 minutes afterwards. I am in Week 33 with 2 1/2 weeks to go to race day and can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Even though I am in taper there is still a lot of work to be done, don't get me wrong, but the end is near. This Saturday the ride is 60 miles with a 1 hour run to follow and it feels like I'll be on vacation. I might be home before 1 PM!!
It's at this point where you just can't wait for it to be over. Slowly you inch towards race week and the anticipation will start to build.
I also don't want anything stupid to happen. Don't trip and fall over the dog or catch your foot in the car door. No way. Stay safe.
I have a tightness in my left hip/left upper leg area which is of a concern. But at this point, if I had to do the IM today, I could. So, it's all about allowing it to heal and landing in one piece. If I have to skip a workout, I will. if I have to cut it short then I'll do that too.
I haven't felt like writing but will try to get more of the next 2 1/2 weeks written down. This is number 3 for me and I will then be going on IM hiatus. I may have to change the name of this blog!
June 21, 2009
Eagleman Re-cap
Thanks for everyone's good wishes for Eagleman. The race went well. The key was the weather. As Leah said, the weather was not as hot as last year. The run did get a little warm at times but overall it was ok. There was some cloud cover that shielded the sun but the rays were strong and still produced plenty of sun burn.
The swim was a different course this year as the area where you usually finish, the boat launch, was being repaired. They had us going in the opposite direction. I had a decent swim with a time of 35:40. I had a tough time sighting some of the buoys and at times found myself drifting off. But overall I was pleased with the swim.
I was intent on getting fast transition times this year. I came into T1 in a blaze. But the wet, muddy conditions slowed me down and I took 4:08 in getting ready for the bike. Not all that bad but I was hoping to be a minute faster.
The bike started out great as I was producing averages between 21 and 22 miles per hour. Where were the winds?!! I was hammering along and feeling great when I realized that I spoke to soon. Around mile 40, the infamous Eagleman winds kicked in and stayed with us most of the whole way home. I ended up with a 19+ average and a time of 2:55:00. I'll take it.
T2 went fairly smooth but again I was 1 minute slower than I wanted to be at 4:15. The legs felt fresh going out on the run and I was intent on hitting the turn around in under 1 hour. The hope was to couple that with a 1:05 or 1:10 run back in for 2:05, 2:10 finish. Unfortunately, it didn't work out. I tired in the middle miles and struggled after mile 11. I finished with a time of 2:18:14. Not bad but certainly not great. My overall time of 5:57:15 was a personal PR at Eagleman by 20 seconds. But the best thing I am taking away from this race is how good I felt after the race. In years past, I have felt very beat up from Eagleman but this year was different.
Now, it's on to Lake Placid with 5 weeks to go. This past week was the first week of 3 hard ones. The end is near!
The swim was a different course this year as the area where you usually finish, the boat launch, was being repaired. They had us going in the opposite direction. I had a decent swim with a time of 35:40. I had a tough time sighting some of the buoys and at times found myself drifting off. But overall I was pleased with the swim.
I was intent on getting fast transition times this year. I came into T1 in a blaze. But the wet, muddy conditions slowed me down and I took 4:08 in getting ready for the bike. Not all that bad but I was hoping to be a minute faster.
The bike started out great as I was producing averages between 21 and 22 miles per hour. Where were the winds?!! I was hammering along and feeling great when I realized that I spoke to soon. Around mile 40, the infamous Eagleman winds kicked in and stayed with us most of the whole way home. I ended up with a 19+ average and a time of 2:55:00. I'll take it.
T2 went fairly smooth but again I was 1 minute slower than I wanted to be at 4:15. The legs felt fresh going out on the run and I was intent on hitting the turn around in under 1 hour. The hope was to couple that with a 1:05 or 1:10 run back in for 2:05, 2:10 finish. Unfortunately, it didn't work out. I tired in the middle miles and struggled after mile 11. I finished with a time of 2:18:14. Not bad but certainly not great. My overall time of 5:57:15 was a personal PR at Eagleman by 20 seconds. But the best thing I am taking away from this race is how good I felt after the race. In years past, I have felt very beat up from Eagleman but this year was different.
Now, it's on to Lake Placid with 5 weeks to go. This past week was the first week of 3 hard ones. The end is near!
June 11, 2009
Eagleman 2009
Eagleman is lurking in the shadows. 3 days away.
This will be my 8th year in a row. And like the guys I race with, I'm not sure why I do this race. It's a fantastic race. Don't get me wrong. Robert Vogorito does a fantastic job year after year. And now it's an official Ironman 70.3 so it has that level of status now. But it's the conditions that can produce misery. Rough water, Heat, and Wind. They can all make for a horrible day if just one of them shows up. Last year, at 6 AM before we even go in the water, it was at leaset 85 degrees. Later on, the heat index was 100+.
But then there was 2007 when conditions were perfect. The temp was down, the wind was at our backs and the water current pushed us a long. And record times all around.
You never know what you get on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. When I cross the line, my first thought could be 'Why?' but hours later we'll all be ready to sign up again.
This will be my 8th year in a row. And like the guys I race with, I'm not sure why I do this race. It's a fantastic race. Don't get me wrong. Robert Vogorito does a fantastic job year after year. And now it's an official Ironman 70.3 so it has that level of status now. But it's the conditions that can produce misery. Rough water, Heat, and Wind. They can all make for a horrible day if just one of them shows up. Last year, at 6 AM before we even go in the water, it was at leaset 85 degrees. Later on, the heat index was 100+.
But then there was 2007 when conditions were perfect. The temp was down, the wind was at our backs and the water current pushed us a long. And record times all around.
You never know what you get on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. When I cross the line, my first thought could be 'Why?' but hours later we'll all be ready to sign up again.
June 04, 2009
The Mental Weeks
There are just a little more than 7 weeks to go until Ironman Lake Placid 2009.
These are "The Mental Weeks". There are still a lot of BIG rides left but you are oh so close to race day. You can almost see the end. Almost taste it. The alarm is still going off at 5:20 AM every single day and the sound of it makes you want to throw up. You have HAD ENOUGH! You are asking yourself and your training buddies "Why are we doing this?"
Even though those voices are starting to quiet a bit because the end is near, they are still there gnawing at you. On Saturday, the alarm goes off at 4:50 AM to get the ride started at 5:30 AM to get the 100 miles in, a 30 minute run afterwards and still be home at a decent time. Everyone shows up as if it's judgement day. It's almost "race day like" in its atmosphere. Everyone is so quiet. Then slowly the voices come to life. They curse what we are doing and suggest we head to the diner instead. Coffee, French Toast and Bacon! But somehow we get on the bikes and ride. Soldiers going off to battle. Solemn but accepting the mission.
The mental weeks are tough. You are investing alot of time into training at this point. The weeks are long. You try to prove to the family that you can train and still be a part of their lives. You can still do everything that needs to be done around the house. But it's just not possible. If I come home after riding 100 miles and running for 5 and I work outside cutting the lawn or painting the deck, I can't make it to 10 PM. Awake that is. A movie? Forget it. A beer? Would love it but then I'm out cold by 9. But still you are a trooper and the family more so. They granted you their permission for you to do this. You must put up a brave face and do what needs to be done. At least make it look like you tried to do it all.
When the mental weeks are over, it's taper time and then the real fun begins. You start the slow descent towards race day. And when it's over, it's like an addict coming off a high. It's hard to sustain but you want more. Except the family is shaking their head. Not this time. It's Saturday morning and we want you back before we wake. And don't forget the bagels.
These are "The Mental Weeks". There are still a lot of BIG rides left but you are oh so close to race day. You can almost see the end. Almost taste it. The alarm is still going off at 5:20 AM every single day and the sound of it makes you want to throw up. You have HAD ENOUGH! You are asking yourself and your training buddies "Why are we doing this?"
Even though those voices are starting to quiet a bit because the end is near, they are still there gnawing at you. On Saturday, the alarm goes off at 4:50 AM to get the ride started at 5:30 AM to get the 100 miles in, a 30 minute run afterwards and still be home at a decent time. Everyone shows up as if it's judgement day. It's almost "race day like" in its atmosphere. Everyone is so quiet. Then slowly the voices come to life. They curse what we are doing and suggest we head to the diner instead. Coffee, French Toast and Bacon! But somehow we get on the bikes and ride. Soldiers going off to battle. Solemn but accepting the mission.
The mental weeks are tough. You are investing alot of time into training at this point. The weeks are long. You try to prove to the family that you can train and still be a part of their lives. You can still do everything that needs to be done around the house. But it's just not possible. If I come home after riding 100 miles and running for 5 and I work outside cutting the lawn or painting the deck, I can't make it to 10 PM. Awake that is. A movie? Forget it. A beer? Would love it but then I'm out cold by 9. But still you are a trooper and the family more so. They granted you their permission for you to do this. You must put up a brave face and do what needs to be done. At least make it look like you tried to do it all.
When the mental weeks are over, it's taper time and then the real fun begins. You start the slow descent towards race day. And when it's over, it's like an addict coming off a high. It's hard to sustain but you want more. Except the family is shaking their head. Not this time. It's Saturday morning and we want you back before we wake. And don't forget the bagels.
May 26, 2009
Bears and Bikes
I was in Northeast Pennsylvania for the Memorial Day weekend. But of course training could not stop. In fact, I love to ride up there because it closely resembles Lake Placid in terms of terrain. In other words: Hills! Let's face it, the hills in LP are longer and steeper but the Poconos are a pretty good stand-in.
On Saturday, I had a 2 1/2 hour ride followed by a 30 minute run planned. The last of the easy weeks! The morning was actually quite nice. The sun was in and out but overall it was good riding weather. As always, I started early while everyone else was still sleeping. I stalled as long as I could until I could stall no longer. I was dreaming of sitting around, drinking coffee and reading the paper instead of riding alone when I awoke. But no could do. Training called and I had to answer.
After gearing up, pumping the tires and re-setting my HRM, I set off. As I rode down the driveway, only 20 feet from the house, I heard rustling in the bushes to my left. Probably a deer or turkey I thought. But as soon as I did think those thoughts, a black bear shot out and ran towards the house next door. Thankfully away from me! Of course I ran back in to tell everyone but everyone, except my father-in-law, was sleeping. At least I was excited! I remounted and shot down the driveway. The bear by now was gone.
Nothing like a little excitement to get the ride going.
At about 12 miles into the ride, I was riding up a hill on a local road as I came to the crest. To my right the hill shot down a steep slope beyond the guardrail. As I looked right and down the hill, there to my amazement, was another bear. I was again startled and put a little extra power in my cadence. But the bear really didn't give me the time of day. In fact it didn't even look in my direction. I just sped away and down the hill with the adrenaline pumping.
On my way back, I put a little extra speed in my climb past that very spot where I saw the second bear but this time there were none. At least none that I could see. All in all it was a good ride totalling 36 miles. It was about 4 miles short of what I expected to do but the hills had something to do with that. Plus, I got the bear sightings. What more could I ask for?
May 19, 2009
Musings on a Tuesday
25 weeks of training down and 10 to go. Here's where it gets interesting.
Eagleman Half Ironman is 25 days away. But it's coming at a great time. It will occur at the end of the 29th week of training with 6 to go to IM. It's great timing because it represents a change in the monotony. It's an opportunity and test to see how fit you are and if you need to work extra hard the 3 weeks following before tapering to lake Placid.
Saturday was the start of the "long rides". Saturday is always the long ride for the bike but now it gets serious. This past Saturday: 77 miles followed by a 15 minute run.
This week, Memorial Day weekend, we get a break. A 3 hour ride. Time to enjoy the day off because it gets doubled on May 3o to 6 hours. Joy!
Time to stock up on Gatorade, Cliff Bars, Z Bars and Snickers!
Yesterday was an official day off. Today was not. But I took it anyway because I was flat out exhausted. Plus, I normally ride before work and it was 45 degrees out. Sorry, done with that this year. Gotta be warmer.
However, I will make up the 90 minute ride tomorrow or Thursday. I will need to double up workouts. Can't miss anything from here on in.
Last night around 10, I was so looped I couldn't stand up. Tonight is better.
The knee's have been holding up. Someone knock some wood for me. Thanks.
Masters Swim tomorrow morning at 6 AM sharp. Can't wait! Really....I can't.
We were all complaining Saturday about getting up early constantly to get the workouts in. Can't wait for it to be over. The problem is that when it's over, you don't know what to do with yourself. You go through withdrawal. But I'll figure it out.
Well, time to start heading toward bed.
Somewhere "there's "kite blowing out of control on a breeze."
And so am I.
Eagleman Half Ironman is 25 days away. But it's coming at a great time. It will occur at the end of the 29th week of training with 6 to go to IM. It's great timing because it represents a change in the monotony. It's an opportunity and test to see how fit you are and if you need to work extra hard the 3 weeks following before tapering to lake Placid.
Saturday was the start of the "long rides". Saturday is always the long ride for the bike but now it gets serious. This past Saturday: 77 miles followed by a 15 minute run.
This week, Memorial Day weekend, we get a break. A 3 hour ride. Time to enjoy the day off because it gets doubled on May 3o to 6 hours. Joy!
Time to stock up on Gatorade, Cliff Bars, Z Bars and Snickers!
Yesterday was an official day off. Today was not. But I took it anyway because I was flat out exhausted. Plus, I normally ride before work and it was 45 degrees out. Sorry, done with that this year. Gotta be warmer.
However, I will make up the 90 minute ride tomorrow or Thursday. I will need to double up workouts. Can't miss anything from here on in.
Last night around 10, I was so looped I couldn't stand up. Tonight is better.
The knee's have been holding up. Someone knock some wood for me. Thanks.
Masters Swim tomorrow morning at 6 AM sharp. Can't wait! Really....I can't.
We were all complaining Saturday about getting up early constantly to get the workouts in. Can't wait for it to be over. The problem is that when it's over, you don't know what to do with yourself. You go through withdrawal. But I'll figure it out.
Well, time to start heading toward bed.
Somewhere "there's "kite blowing out of control on a breeze."
And so am I.
May 12, 2009
Boo Ironman!
The World Triathlon Corporation or Ironman itself, I really don't know who governs this race anymore, has slipped us a fast one. They have taken away one of the greatest benefits of completing this race.
Ironman recently announced the following:
"Friends and/or family members will no longer be permitted to cross the finish line or enter the finish chute with participating athletes. However, friends and/or families are encouraged to reunite with their athlete in the photo/post-race area just beyond the finish line"
I will not win my age group. I will not qualify for Kona. I will finish somewhere in the 13 to 14 hour range. When I make that last turnaround in Lake Placid and head for the Olympic skating oval and the IM finish, I am flooded with adrenaline. I almost feel I could go another 5 miles. The joy of seeing my family is overwhelming. At both my IM races and finishes in Lake Placid, my three daughters waited patiently for me. They were excited to see me finish the race. They are getting older now but they still smile and join me in my dash across the finish line and through the tape. I think they look forward to it.
But now the Big Corporation says: No More!
It's a sad day for the common athlete.
Somewhere, there are athletes like me who may indeed win their Age Group. And somewhere deep inside, and I realize this is dangerous to be accusatory, I believe it is probably because of them that we cannot finish with our family anymore. They were tired of fighting Bob and his three kids as they strolled across the finish line. Maybe it cost Johnny Age Grouper a few precious seconds off his time. He still qualified but it could have been 2 seconds faster. And in his opinion, that was an outrage. Two sides to every story.
Or maybe it's the I-word getting in the way again. The I-word being Insurance. Whatever the reason, it won't be the same for me this year at Lake Placid. It's just a sad day.
May 03, 2009
Guy's Weekend
I am just back from a "guy's weekend" with my father-in-law and my 6 brothers in law. (There is a 7th but he couldn't join us as he is in Germany with the US Army). This is our traditional Christmas gift from my wife's Dad. A weekend of golf and hanging out. I met up with the rest of the group for dinner as I couldn't get off work Friday but the rest of them could. They all played golf during the day while I worked. I also brought all my workout clothes and training gear as I am at the end of Week 23 in IM Training and couldn't take off the weekend from training. So, I did what I have always done the last three years this traditional trip has occurred: I ride after golf.
Friday night was good food, laughs and a lot of beers. And I mean a lot of beers. Somehow they are hard to count when your glass is rarely empty. Pitchers are filled and glasses are re-filled.
Bedtime was midnight.
The alarm sounded at 6:15 Saturday morning. The head was foggy and the mouth was dry. I needed water and coffee in that order. And then I needed more coffee. We played 18 holes of golf and it was a glorious day. Cloudy and windy for the first nine but by the back we were basking in sunshine. After lunch we finally got back home at 1:30 and as everyone started to sack out on couches, floors and beds (Yes-there were a few nappers), I changed into my bike shorts and headed out for a 1 hour 45 minute ride followed by a 15 minute run. We were in the Poconos so I had a nice rolling hills course to simulate Lake Placid. I was tired but the sun was really out now and I was looking forward to it. I was also thankful that the training schedule didn't call for a 3 to 4 hour ride. That would have been depressing.
After I completed my workout, it was time to shower and then it was back to watching sports, eating and drinking more beer. I didn't go too crazy because Sunday was a 1 hour 20 minute run. But we were all gassed anyway from the day and people were leaving early so it was an early night. I do admit that Yuengling's taste better after 30 miles on the bike and a great day of golf. Plus, there is no guilt. I can't wait until next year!
Friday night was good food, laughs and a lot of beers. And I mean a lot of beers. Somehow they are hard to count when your glass is rarely empty. Pitchers are filled and glasses are re-filled.
Bedtime was midnight.
The alarm sounded at 6:15 Saturday morning. The head was foggy and the mouth was dry. I needed water and coffee in that order. And then I needed more coffee. We played 18 holes of golf and it was a glorious day. Cloudy and windy for the first nine but by the back we were basking in sunshine. After lunch we finally got back home at 1:30 and as everyone started to sack out on couches, floors and beds (Yes-there were a few nappers), I changed into my bike shorts and headed out for a 1 hour 45 minute ride followed by a 15 minute run. We were in the Poconos so I had a nice rolling hills course to simulate Lake Placid. I was tired but the sun was really out now and I was looking forward to it. I was also thankful that the training schedule didn't call for a 3 to 4 hour ride. That would have been depressing.
After I completed my workout, it was time to shower and then it was back to watching sports, eating and drinking more beer. I didn't go too crazy because Sunday was a 1 hour 20 minute run. But we were all gassed anyway from the day and people were leaving early so it was an early night. I do admit that Yuengling's taste better after 30 miles on the bike and a great day of golf. Plus, there is no guilt. I can't wait until next year!
April 16, 2009
Visualize
Wow, I have not been very good at writing or reading other blogs. Between Work, Training, Family and Life in general, it has been crazy. Wait a second, I feel a complaint coming on. Whew! Caught it just in time.
In the words of a very famous philosopher, "you have to visualize what you want." I want peace, harmony and time to get everything done in 24 hours. But right now I am visualizing going to bed and hitting the pool in the morning.
I promise to visualize writing more consistently and catch up with what everyone else is writing. Especially those who take the time to read what I write.
Oh, and one more thing: Happy Birthday Mom!
In the words of a very famous philosopher, "you have to visualize what you want." I want peace, harmony and time to get everything done in 24 hours. But right now I am visualizing going to bed and hitting the pool in the morning.
I promise to visualize writing more consistently and catch up with what everyone else is writing. Especially those who take the time to read what I write.
Oh, and one more thing: Happy Birthday Mom!
March 30, 2009
The Lonely 3000 Yards
My training plan had 3 swims scheduled for last week and two of them were for 3000 yards. Same thing this week too.
Somehow, I got switched to swimming at night after work instead of in the morning. I usually like the morning better because then the swim doesn't hang over my head all day. Plus, when I swim at night I get home late so less family time. Although, I'm not sure that was a factor tonight. When I walked in the 12 year old was screaming at the 14 year old and my wife was the referee. Maybe I should have stayed and swam another 3000.
Usually, at 7 PM when I get to the Y, the pool is crazy with the Y swim team. There are three lanes for lap swimming until 7:30 and then it goes down to one. However, for the last three weeks the team has been on hiatus. So, when I get there, the pool is empty. It's actually nice to not have to battle for an open lane. But the distance is the killer.
One of my training partners has been swimming alone lately too. We've come to call these workouts "The Lonely 3000 Yards." It's a mental chore to get through it but you know if you don't you will feel worse. So, there I was on a Lonely Monday night at the Lonely Y Pool pounding out the Lonely 3000 Yards. I'm pretty sure it's all worth it.
Somehow, I got switched to swimming at night after work instead of in the morning. I usually like the morning better because then the swim doesn't hang over my head all day. Plus, when I swim at night I get home late so less family time. Although, I'm not sure that was a factor tonight. When I walked in the 12 year old was screaming at the 14 year old and my wife was the referee. Maybe I should have stayed and swam another 3000.
Usually, at 7 PM when I get to the Y, the pool is crazy with the Y swim team. There are three lanes for lap swimming until 7:30 and then it goes down to one. However, for the last three weeks the team has been on hiatus. So, when I get there, the pool is empty. It's actually nice to not have to battle for an open lane. But the distance is the killer.
One of my training partners has been swimming alone lately too. We've come to call these workouts "The Lonely 3000 Yards." It's a mental chore to get through it but you know if you don't you will feel worse. So, there I was on a Lonely Monday night at the Lonely Y Pool pounding out the Lonely 3000 Yards. I'm pretty sure it's all worth it.
March 29, 2009
It's Not Just About the Race
I always seem to write better when I plan my blog entries and this one is sort of planned. I have an idea of what I want to write about but I didn't create it before I signed on. That seems to be my life anyway, doing things without any plans in mind. Trying to pull it off with no plan in place. Well, that works in some things but it's not a good recipe for your entire life. It is especially not good for completing an Ironman race. Although, I do know a guy that does it. Sort of. He doesn't follow any formalized plan but makes sure he swims 3 times a week, gets in several 100 mile bike rides and runs far enough. He's one of those gifted runners who can turn in a sub 4 hour marathon without really training. But one thing is sure, he doesn't start his training like I did the week of Thanksgiving for a July race. He gets to it when he gets to it.
There is a great article in the Winter 2009 issue of Triathlon Life. This is the publication of the USAT. On page 114, Jeff Matlow writes an artilce titled "Beyond the Pain." It is largely a story about a Tri Coach named Tony that Jeff hired to help him train for triathlon racing and other endurance events. Tony was an ex-military guy so that right there should tell you the kind of coach he was. Jeff said he was tough but also knew when to back off if the training was pushing too hard. One time during training for a marathon and an Ironman, Jeff gets hurt and is told by his doctor to stop running. The doctor allowed him to do pool running but that got boring. So, he did what every bored, tough triathlete does when they are injured and can't run outside. He hit the elliptical machine.
There was one specific training session when Jeff decided to go for 26.2 miles on the elliptical. It took him 3 hours and 28 minutes. If that mind numbing exercise can't prepare you for triathlon when half the time you are battling yourself and the other half the course, then I don't know what will. I've personally been on a few 6+ hour rides that get old after awhile but the elliptical? I can't even last 2 hours on my trainer. But this is precisely the point that Jeff wants to make. It was his coach Tony that prepared him for this. As he said, "he was proud of having pushed forward when every cell in my body tried to convince me to fall back."
The training sessions with Tony taught him more than how to swim, bike and run. All the pain, anguish, and tears accumulated during endurance training eventually add up to something. Yes, it hopefully gets you to the finish line but there is more. As Jeff said "....Triathlon isn't just about the race. Rather, it's about what you learn from the race that you can apply to the rest of your life."
This past Saturday, four of us showed up at the usual parking lot we meet at for our long rides. It was finally warmer than the usual '27 degrees" that it has been all winter but still chilly out and overcast. We're half way to Ironman now but all so tired of waking up at 5:30 and riding in the cold. In any evet, we somehow mounted the bikes and headed out. It warmed up some and the time went quicker than we thought it would. We pulled back into the lot and commented aloud that the ride wasn't that bad and actually enjoyble. But that's what triathlon teaches. When everything seems impossible, it's the strong that continue on.
There is a great article in the Winter 2009 issue of Triathlon Life. This is the publication of the USAT. On page 114, Jeff Matlow writes an artilce titled "Beyond the Pain." It is largely a story about a Tri Coach named Tony that Jeff hired to help him train for triathlon racing and other endurance events. Tony was an ex-military guy so that right there should tell you the kind of coach he was. Jeff said he was tough but also knew when to back off if the training was pushing too hard. One time during training for a marathon and an Ironman, Jeff gets hurt and is told by his doctor to stop running. The doctor allowed him to do pool running but that got boring. So, he did what every bored, tough triathlete does when they are injured and can't run outside. He hit the elliptical machine.
There was one specific training session when Jeff decided to go for 26.2 miles on the elliptical. It took him 3 hours and 28 minutes. If that mind numbing exercise can't prepare you for triathlon when half the time you are battling yourself and the other half the course, then I don't know what will. I've personally been on a few 6+ hour rides that get old after awhile but the elliptical? I can't even last 2 hours on my trainer. But this is precisely the point that Jeff wants to make. It was his coach Tony that prepared him for this. As he said, "he was proud of having pushed forward when every cell in my body tried to convince me to fall back."
The training sessions with Tony taught him more than how to swim, bike and run. All the pain, anguish, and tears accumulated during endurance training eventually add up to something. Yes, it hopefully gets you to the finish line but there is more. As Jeff said "....Triathlon isn't just about the race. Rather, it's about what you learn from the race that you can apply to the rest of your life."
This past Saturday, four of us showed up at the usual parking lot we meet at for our long rides. It was finally warmer than the usual '27 degrees" that it has been all winter but still chilly out and overcast. We're half way to Ironman now but all so tired of waking up at 5:30 and riding in the cold. In any evet, we somehow mounted the bikes and headed out. It warmed up some and the time went quicker than we thought it would. We pulled back into the lot and commented aloud that the ride wasn't that bad and actually enjoyble. But that's what triathlon teaches. When everything seems impossible, it's the strong that continue on.
March 22, 2009
Running with Injuries
As I warmed up for my long run today, which was only supposed to be 1 hour 20 min max, the thoughts slipped into my mind again. The knees, the feet, the heels, the back and the hips are all experiencing nagging injuries. And all I can say that after this year: No More Ironman. Of course, the next sentence out of mouth is usually:
“Well, at least for awhile”
But the thought of not doing it again is really starting to take hold. You see I am trying to make it through this training without seeing any doctors. Swimming and biking are fine but running is a mental chore. I’ve had these knee injuries before and I know what I need to do to prevent them. Or at least lessen their impact. I need to do the exercises my PT taught me to warm the knee up. But between work, training and life in general, the plate is always full. There is no time for anything else. Of course it will force my hand if the injuries worsen and then I’ll tell myself that I told you so.
This morning seemed a little different. I think the warm up actually helped. But the left toes are still giving me that hot nerve like pain. That is a result of my shoes, I think. I run in Saucony Hurricanes. I was a big fan of the 8’s but I am running in the 9’s and they are different. Don’t you hate when the manufacturer does that?! Change the shoes and maybe alleviate the pain. We’ll see.
Anyway, this whole training odyssey is about keeping sane and not letting the intensity and frequency of the workouts get you down. Just don’t look too far ahead in the schedule. It’s just another part of the discipline required to get you through it all.
“Well, at least for awhile”
But the thought of not doing it again is really starting to take hold. You see I am trying to make it through this training without seeing any doctors. Swimming and biking are fine but running is a mental chore. I’ve had these knee injuries before and I know what I need to do to prevent them. Or at least lessen their impact. I need to do the exercises my PT taught me to warm the knee up. But between work, training and life in general, the plate is always full. There is no time for anything else. Of course it will force my hand if the injuries worsen and then I’ll tell myself that I told you so.
This morning seemed a little different. I think the warm up actually helped. But the left toes are still giving me that hot nerve like pain. That is a result of my shoes, I think. I run in Saucony Hurricanes. I was a big fan of the 8’s but I am running in the 9’s and they are different. Don’t you hate when the manufacturer does that?! Change the shoes and maybe alleviate the pain. We’ll see.
Anyway, this whole training odyssey is about keeping sane and not letting the intensity and frequency of the workouts get you down. Just don’t look too far ahead in the schedule. It’s just another part of the discipline required to get you through it all.
March 15, 2009
Hurry Spring
Ok, cold weather really does SUCK! Have I said this before? Maybe, on one or two occasions. But it's really testing my patience this year. The last three Winters have been mild so it hasn't been bad in terms of training but this year just don't get me started!
On Saturday, I was on my way to meet my training partners for our scheduled long ride. It was 27 degrees out and I started to question why I was doing this. (Don't worry I am not dropping out! It's all just smack Katie!) I left a nice warm bed with the promise of hot coffee and the morning paper to ride and freeze my fingers and toes off. Plus, not to mention all the clothes you have to pile on. That in itself is getting old. But nonetheless, I trudged on and was not alone in my opinions.
At one point during the ride, we passed another person in their robe walking down their driveway, coffee cup in hand, to pick up the paper. I said to Jim, "I want to be that person. I'm sick of being the freezing one on the bike passing by." He agreed.
It did manage to warm up to about 43 degrees when we started our run. But it wasn't like it was last week when the starting temp was 30 and the ending temp was 60. And you know it's only with the bike that the cold weather sucks. I love to run in the cold. Ok, maybe I don't love it but I tolerate it. Actually, I do like it. But with the bike the issue is time since we are on it so long. Spring can't get here quick enough.
On Saturday, I was on my way to meet my training partners for our scheduled long ride. It was 27 degrees out and I started to question why I was doing this. (Don't worry I am not dropping out! It's all just smack Katie!) I left a nice warm bed with the promise of hot coffee and the morning paper to ride and freeze my fingers and toes off. Plus, not to mention all the clothes you have to pile on. That in itself is getting old. But nonetheless, I trudged on and was not alone in my opinions.
At one point during the ride, we passed another person in their robe walking down their driveway, coffee cup in hand, to pick up the paper. I said to Jim, "I want to be that person. I'm sick of being the freezing one on the bike passing by." He agreed.
It did manage to warm up to about 43 degrees when we started our run. But it wasn't like it was last week when the starting temp was 30 and the ending temp was 60. And you know it's only with the bike that the cold weather sucks. I love to run in the cold. Ok, maybe I don't love it but I tolerate it. Actually, I do like it. But with the bike the issue is time since we are on it so long. Spring can't get here quick enough.
March 05, 2009
Getting Sick
When you're sick not only don't you feel like training but you don't feel like writing either. I got hit with something just short of strep throat. I missed two days of work (which I never do) and an entire week of training. But even now, with this the first week back, I am easing back in. My energy just got really zapped. I couldn't lift my arms.
It all happened after my run on Sunday, February 22. I wasn't feeling great Saturday night but had a 1 hour and 40 minute run scheduled for Sunday. I think I broke the cardinal rule. If it's below the head, don't work out. If it's above it then go ahead. Is that it? Anyway, I had a cough that was burning at the end of it. That should have been my warning sign but I ran anyway. It had been a good week. Long but good so I wanted to finish it with this run. Then I came crawling home. It was the run from Hell. No energy. Shivering. Aches and pains. I also think I was tired from the 41 miles on the bike the day before. I spent the whole day in bed after the run with extreme body aches. Started running a fever and just felt like crap. I went to the doctor on Monday and got anti-biotics and here I am. Better and getting stronger each day. Back to training. Back to writing.
My Ironman fever has cooled. I actually thought of dropping out. But I'm ready to start full tilt again. It's supposed to be 60 this weekend and that's good news. I'm just done with this winter. Done. It's been a long one here in the East. Global warming is not here yet. I can attest to that.
It all happened after my run on Sunday, February 22. I wasn't feeling great Saturday night but had a 1 hour and 40 minute run scheduled for Sunday. I think I broke the cardinal rule. If it's below the head, don't work out. If it's above it then go ahead. Is that it? Anyway, I had a cough that was burning at the end of it. That should have been my warning sign but I ran anyway. It had been a good week. Long but good so I wanted to finish it with this run. Then I came crawling home. It was the run from Hell. No energy. Shivering. Aches and pains. I also think I was tired from the 41 miles on the bike the day before. I spent the whole day in bed after the run with extreme body aches. Started running a fever and just felt like crap. I went to the doctor on Monday and got anti-biotics and here I am. Better and getting stronger each day. Back to training. Back to writing.
My Ironman fever has cooled. I actually thought of dropping out. But I'm ready to start full tilt again. It's supposed to be 60 this weekend and that's good news. I'm just done with this winter. Done. It's been a long one here in the East. Global warming is not here yet. I can attest to that.
February 19, 2009
Win the Lottery & Train All the Time
Well, this was supposed to be a continuation of the last entry but I got a little lazy this week with my writing. Well, better late than never. I think that my apply here or is that when I apologize to my wife for trashing the house but not immediately admitting to it?
Sunday's run was great. But I continue to have that slightly hot pain with the sensation of my foot being asleep in my left foot. It usually starts at around 30 to 40 minutes into the run. Sometimes it goes away and sometimes it does not. So far it hasn't shut me down completely so I'll just continue to monitor it. I did 8+ miles in 1 hour and 27 minutes. S-L-O-W I know. But I was trying to keep it in Zone 1 on my HRM which is like trying to walk a tightrope with a 200 pound backpack on. I just can't seem to do it.
Monday was another big day as I hit the pool in the morning for 3000 yards and lifted weights afterwards. It was Presidents Day and I was off from work so I had the afternoon free. It was cool out, maybe 38 degrees, but SUNNY. How could I resist? I mean the bike was still right there by my front door from Saturday's ride. Plus I had a 90 minute ride in the training plan scheduled for tomorrow which almost certainly would have to be done on the trainer. I really don't think there was anything to consider why I shouldn't ride. I mean my wife and daughters were still out of town. What was I going to do anyway? Watch a soap opera? It turned out to be one of those "magical rides" where everything just felt great. The weather was almost perfect. Traffic was light. I was a little tired but I took it slow and got 22 miles in.
Tuesday was an earned day off and much needed. But I think Wednesday it all came crashing down. I hit the pool at 6 AM for a Masters class and I was anything but a master. (Not that I am anything close to one when I am at the top of MY game). I was sluggish at best. But you know, it was all worth it. Outside for two bike rides in three days. I'll take it in the midst of this Winter.
Now I just need to win the lottery so I can train like this all the time.
Sunday's run was great. But I continue to have that slightly hot pain with the sensation of my foot being asleep in my left foot. It usually starts at around 30 to 40 minutes into the run. Sometimes it goes away and sometimes it does not. So far it hasn't shut me down completely so I'll just continue to monitor it. I did 8+ miles in 1 hour and 27 minutes. S-L-O-W I know. But I was trying to keep it in Zone 1 on my HRM which is like trying to walk a tightrope with a 200 pound backpack on. I just can't seem to do it.
Monday was another big day as I hit the pool in the morning for 3000 yards and lifted weights afterwards. It was Presidents Day and I was off from work so I had the afternoon free. It was cool out, maybe 38 degrees, but SUNNY. How could I resist? I mean the bike was still right there by my front door from Saturday's ride. Plus I had a 90 minute ride in the training plan scheduled for tomorrow which almost certainly would have to be done on the trainer. I really don't think there was anything to consider why I shouldn't ride. I mean my wife and daughters were still out of town. What was I going to do anyway? Watch a soap opera? It turned out to be one of those "magical rides" where everything just felt great. The weather was almost perfect. Traffic was light. I was a little tired but I took it slow and got 22 miles in.
Tuesday was an earned day off and much needed. But I think Wednesday it all came crashing down. I hit the pool at 6 AM for a Masters class and I was anything but a master. (Not that I am anything close to one when I am at the top of MY game). I was sluggish at best. But you know, it was all worth it. Outside for two bike rides in three days. I'll take it in the midst of this Winter.
Now I just need to win the lottery so I can train like this all the time.
February 14, 2009
Big Saturday
What do you do when your wife and daughters are out of town on a Saturday? You train!
I had a big day today and now I'm ready to hit the couch. We hit the road at 8:15 AM with a balmy temperature of 27 degrees and cloudy skies. I had hot packs in both of my shoes and my gloves. They did help but Boy, it was cold! It didn't matter though because I was getting out no matter what today. I haven't been outside on the bike since early December and the trainer was starting to drive me crazy. (Think "the Shinning"). Someday, I have to put a picture up on this blog of my "training room" where my bike sits. I have basically imprisioned myself.
At around 1 hour into the ride, the sun did appear and it warmed up quite nicely. It actually felt great. The pain in the toes and fingers was subsiding. I was glad I didn't blow this off.
After 2 1/4 hours and32 miles, we got off the bikes and ran for 15 minutes. The run is just get the legs to turn over and to feel that heaviness after getting off the bike.
On my way back home, I decided to stop off at my Y and get some laps in. I missed a swim this week plus one was on the schedule for today anyway. I did 2000 yards in under 50 minutes but what really stood out were the two major cramps I experienced. One in the right hamstring and the other in the left foot. Cramps in the pool stink. But, hey, at least I got there.
And now it's either Miller time or crash time. Maybe, I'll see what movies are available via on demand. Either way, I'm in bed early tonight. A long run awaits me for tomorrow.
What else do you do with your wife and daughters out of town? You write a blog entry on a Saturday night. I lead an exciting life!
I had a big day today and now I'm ready to hit the couch. We hit the road at 8:15 AM with a balmy temperature of 27 degrees and cloudy skies. I had hot packs in both of my shoes and my gloves. They did help but Boy, it was cold! It didn't matter though because I was getting out no matter what today. I haven't been outside on the bike since early December and the trainer was starting to drive me crazy. (Think "the Shinning"). Someday, I have to put a picture up on this blog of my "training room" where my bike sits. I have basically imprisioned myself.
At around 1 hour into the ride, the sun did appear and it warmed up quite nicely. It actually felt great. The pain in the toes and fingers was subsiding. I was glad I didn't blow this off.
After 2 1/4 hours and32 miles, we got off the bikes and ran for 15 minutes. The run is just get the legs to turn over and to feel that heaviness after getting off the bike.
On my way back home, I decided to stop off at my Y and get some laps in. I missed a swim this week plus one was on the schedule for today anyway. I did 2000 yards in under 50 minutes but what really stood out were the two major cramps I experienced. One in the right hamstring and the other in the left foot. Cramps in the pool stink. But, hey, at least I got there.
And now it's either Miller time or crash time. Maybe, I'll see what movies are available via on demand. Either way, I'm in bed early tonight. A long run awaits me for tomorrow.
What else do you do with your wife and daughters out of town? You write a blog entry on a Saturday night. I lead an exciting life!
February 11, 2009
Heroes
I am a BIG fan of Sully Sullenberger and the rest of the crew of Flight 1549. If you watched the interviews on 60 minutes or Larry King Live, you might agree. There are many parts of this story that make it great. But I guess the most important is that it had a happy ending. The 155 people from that flight are alive today because of the quick thinking of Sully. It's amazing when you start to look at the amount of time he had to make the decision on what to do with the plane. I may be off slightly with these numbers but it was about 2 minutes into the flight when they struck the birds and about 6 minutes in when he put the jet down into the Hudson. It seems like he played out all the scenarios of what to do in his mind like he had a microprocessor crunching all the numbers. It's just amazing that someone can think that quickly and that soundly and under all that pressure. He really had no time to think of his family or the passengers in back. He only thought of what his options were for saving these people and this plane. He had a triathlete's focus and detrmination multiplied to the tenth power.
So, with that I ask you, what is the deal with Alex Rodriguez? How come he couldn't think that clearly before he shot HGH into himself? Or that woman, Jennifer Figge, who claims to have swam across the Atlantic Ocean? Well, it's now come out that it was a hoax. She only swam 250 miles in all. What was she thinking before she let the media publish this story? The world is filled with imposters and "role models" that constantly let us down. We are in need of true heroes.
In the end, I hope nothing bad comes out about Sully and his Crew. I hope there are no skeletons in the closet. Hopefully, he paid all his taxes. Hopefully, his ultra human thinking capacity wasn't enhanced by shooting adrenaline into his veins. Is that stuff banned? If he is who he says he is and I gotta believe he is, then I'd like to see kids wearing Sully Football Jersey's with his name on the back. Or kids playing with Flight 1549 trading cards instead of A-Roid's rookie card. Or maybe what will happen is that this story will make us feel good for awhile but then fade into the background once its' run its' course. That is how a true hero story goes.
We will all remember where we were that day and how Sully and his team made us feel hopeful. A story to inspire a generation.
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