I had the Holiday crazies this weekend. I was responsible for Thanksgiving dinner and with two little ones we had to get all the fun Christmas stuff going ASAP. We did the tree, shopping, present wrapping, and house decorating. I'm wore out.
Work outs: Unfortunately all the Christmas fun has cut into my workout time. I've missed 3 days or work outs. (1) I skipped the day after my long ride to rest. (2) I took Sunday off b/c it was my girlfriends 40th birthday. We had lunch, drinks and went to a movie. (3) I went to swim this evening with my new YMCA membership and the pool closed 5 minutes before I got there. Of course I was wearing my suit and flip flops so I couldnt' switch gears. UGH! I decided not to beat myself up about too badly. I needed to do everything I did for the family. I also feel pretty well rested. Tomorrow is another day.
Tri Training Plan: I have been off on my tri training plan. After the first 3 weeks of the plan I have been off by 3 hours, 2.5 hours, and 1.75 hours. Not the best. To help get my hours up I have signed up for a YMCA membership. It is brand new and only 2.5 miles from my house. My goal is to go over there after my kids go to sleep at 8:00. They also offer a 6:00 a.m. spin class. If I can get a few more hours in a week I will get myself on schedule. Now I think I have close the perfect set up. I have a top notch work out facilty at work, one close to my house for when I can't go during work hours, and great weather in case I miss both.
Bike ride: My 60 mile ride went really well. The ride was 58.5 miles and we finished in about 4:09:00. We were happy with that b/c that time included all of our stops. Our Tucson ride took us 5:03:00. Tucson was 66 miles so we did take some time of the ride. I started to have my ride break down around mile 53 this time. Ron thinks we should build on these rides - distance and speed. I'm up for that if I can get comfortable. We have also mapped out some great hills too. Hopefully I'll be ready for that HIM ride!
My lady parts were super sore again. We acted immediately this time. Ron bought me a new cut out bike seat so I'll give it a test spin soon. I also got some new Pearl I bike shorts. There is an outlet near us so we went and got some stuff. I got a jersy for about $45!! (Marked down from $89) The shorts were $90 marked down to about $54. If I was a smaller size I could have scored some cute ladies jerseys for about $15.
Eating: I over ate. Pecan Pie is SOOO good!
Monday, November 30, 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Half Ironman & Ironman
My mind is racing thinking about how I'm going to do this 2010 Ironman race. I can not allow myself to think about it though. My goal is to give full attention to the Half Ironman in March. We are on week 18 and after this weekend I have a long way to go.
I have learned a few things lately though.
I have learned a few things lately though.
- I need to get a YMCA or gym membership so I can workout at night. I'm usually anti fitness center b/c I like to be outside but it is too dark in the morning and evening to do anything. A new YMCA opened up about 2 miles from my house so I think I will go there.
- I think I need to get my act/Sh$T together! Since time is a factor for me I will have to be as efficient as possible in my training. Understanding bike cadence and Heart Rate will make things so much better.
- Nutrition - I'm eating everything in sight. I always seem to think that a big workout or race gives me the green light to eat ALL WEEKEND long. I'm going to log my food starting now. I know 20 pounds will greatly help me before the Half Ironman.
- After 2 weeks on my plan it is obvious that my "planned to actual" workout times are not good. I need to come up with a better training system.
- I can't do all these little races in 2010. Heck, I've been doing a race almost every weekend this month. I am realizing that the races take away from my long training days. I want to be more selective in 2010. I want to have fun but balance it with good solid races that help my training.
I'm ready to let the training and the research begin. I want to successfully complete this Half Ironman without hurting myself.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Ironman AZ - 2010
We did it!! Peter and I just signed up for the Ironman Arizona in 2010. The picture above is me standing in line to register. I can't believe it! This is going to be an interesting year. When I get home tonight I will post the photo of the two of us at on-site registration. Wish us luck.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
El Tour De Tucson - 66 miles of Fun??
El Tour De Tucson - 66 miles of fun?
Yesterday was the El Tour De Tucson. It was my very first bike race. I had no idea what to expect. The best part about it was that my husband rode with me and I had my two tri buddies with me. Their were about 2000 people at the 66 mile start. Their was also a 100 mile distance, an 80 mile distance and a 35 mile ride. I was so impressed with the Tucson police officers. They had traffic controlled all they way around the city. I was more worried about the other riders then I was the vehicles!
We started out very strong. We weaved in and out of bikers and had a good pace. The weirdest part was that about 5 miles into the race we had to get off our bikes and walk them trough a wash. The walk about about 3/4 to half a mile! It was crazy. I don't know how that factored into our times. Oh well. My tribuddies pulled away around mile 10 or 12. They did great.
Ron and I were doing well and he even commented that he could tell how much stronger i was getting on the bike as we tackled several hills. Unfortunately, I totally HIT THE WALL at around mile 44. From 44-56 I was DONE! My lady parts hurt and I was so tired. It didn't help that we hit some rough roads during this time.
We ended up around 5:03. It was much slower then I had hoped but I'm happy to say I completed a 66 mile ride. This time includes a stop for Ron to put his chain back on, a stop to fix a break problem, a big water food stop at mile 30, and 3 Kate's got to get off this damn bike and stretch stops. I think my mind started messing with me after my usual 40 mile distance.
Lessons Learned:
Yesterday was the El Tour De Tucson. It was my very first bike race. I had no idea what to expect. The best part about it was that my husband rode with me and I had my two tri buddies with me. Their were about 2000 people at the 66 mile start. Their was also a 100 mile distance, an 80 mile distance and a 35 mile ride. I was so impressed with the Tucson police officers. They had traffic controlled all they way around the city. I was more worried about the other riders then I was the vehicles!
We started out very strong. We weaved in and out of bikers and had a good pace. The weirdest part was that about 5 miles into the race we had to get off our bikes and walk them trough a wash. The walk about about 3/4 to half a mile! It was crazy. I don't know how that factored into our times. Oh well. My tribuddies pulled away around mile 10 or 12. They did great.
Ron and I were doing well and he even commented that he could tell how much stronger i was getting on the bike as we tackled several hills. Unfortunately, I totally HIT THE WALL at around mile 44. From 44-56 I was DONE! My lady parts hurt and I was so tired. It didn't help that we hit some rough roads during this time.
We ended up around 5:03. It was much slower then I had hoped but I'm happy to say I completed a 66 mile ride. This time includes a stop for Ron to put his chain back on, a stop to fix a break problem, a big water food stop at mile 30, and 3 Kate's got to get off this damn bike and stretch stops. I think my mind started messing with me after my usual 40 mile distance.
Lessons Learned:
- I need more time in the saddle. My one long ride a week isn't going to cut it for my HIM.
- I need a woman friendly bike seat and a new pair of bike shorts.
- I should really scope out the course and plan my nutrition stops before the race.
- I HAVE to do another bike race. Love them.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
'09 California 70.3 Race Report
I found this California Half Ironman race report from a guy who did the race last year. It shows you some pictures and give some details from the course. I've got to get my training together!!
http://dcrainmaker.blogspot.com/2008/03/oceanside-703-race-report-aka-there-be.html
http://dcrainmaker.blogspot.com/2008/03/oceanside-703-race-report-aka-there-be.html
Monday, November 16, 2009
D-F-L Finish - Part II
So my splash and dash race results were finally posted. Guess what?? I was so F'ING LAST that they didn't even give me a time! I paid $40 and didn't get a time! LAME! They quit timing people at 1:02:00. I figure I was probably around 1:20:00 based on Suzanne's time.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Wetsuit Hickeys and Panty Lines
This Saturday's Splash & Dash was not easy. 2000m in the 66 degree Tempe Town "Lake" at 730 am in the rain (yes, rain) and cold (also true) was not easy. We earned our pancakes for sure.
After the last Splash & Dash I decided I needed a different wetsuit, like one that actually fit me and wasn't so long that I had to roll up the legs and without so much velcro down the back that I had to seriously consider running the "dash" in the thing. The lovely folks at Tribe Multisport helped me out on Friday and I found one to rent for the weekend that fits like a dream. But just like in any new relationship, I was thrilled and blind with love at first try-on. I didn't realize that my dream wetsuit had flaws. First, you can totally see my tri shorts through the thing. Peter said, "oh, panty lines." Yes. Attractive. And secondly, though not quite abusive, things got a bit rough when I wasn't prepared. At about 1500m my lower back was hurting bad (wetsuits are buoyant, unlike me, and so wearing one makes me arch my back more than I normally do when swimming. Over a distance, this is not comfortable.) and my neck was stinging. Sure enough, hickeys. One giant one on each side of my neck. Both Kate and Peter refused to believe that they're actually from a wetsuit because I announced their presence without having looking in a mirror first. I'm psychic is what it comes down to.
Anyway, I run out of the lake and manage to get out of the wetsuit in no time flat, put on my running shoes (without the very random piece of still wrapped gum in one of them that was a problem last time) and dash. The run was uneventful -- my Asics shoes and I have been together nearly 400 miles now, so we're now comfortable with each other. No surprises. It's good.
I finished 7th overall in the race, which was pretty cool, and only one person in my 25-29 age group women beat me. She won't next time! And yes, I did cheer for Kate during the last bit of her swim where she looked super confident and strong.
Today's 10 mile Iron Girl race went pretty well, too! It was really cold out there along the lake (we did 2 loops around Tempe Town Lake) but the cute tshirts make up for it. And my trusty Asics were there to support me, just like always. They're okay with the wetsuit being a part of my life -- the shoes, the wetsuit and the bike have come to an understanding with one another that they serve very different needs and are all equally important. No one is jealous, at least that I know about.
So there you have it! This next weekend is my first ever bike race, the Tour de Tuscon, on Saturday morning. I did a little math and the 66 miles equals roughly 6 pancakes, two cups of coffee, a banana and a cookie.
After the last Splash & Dash I decided I needed a different wetsuit, like one that actually fit me and wasn't so long that I had to roll up the legs and without so much velcro down the back that I had to seriously consider running the "dash" in the thing. The lovely folks at Tribe Multisport helped me out on Friday and I found one to rent for the weekend that fits like a dream. But just like in any new relationship, I was thrilled and blind with love at first try-on. I didn't realize that my dream wetsuit had flaws. First, you can totally see my tri shorts through the thing. Peter said, "oh, panty lines." Yes. Attractive. And secondly, though not quite abusive, things got a bit rough when I wasn't prepared. At about 1500m my lower back was hurting bad (wetsuits are buoyant, unlike me, and so wearing one makes me arch my back more than I normally do when swimming. Over a distance, this is not comfortable.) and my neck was stinging. Sure enough, hickeys. One giant one on each side of my neck. Both Kate and Peter refused to believe that they're actually from a wetsuit because I announced their presence without having looking in a mirror first. I'm psychic is what it comes down to.
Anyway, I run out of the lake and manage to get out of the wetsuit in no time flat, put on my running shoes (without the very random piece of still wrapped gum in one of them that was a problem last time) and dash. The run was uneventful -- my Asics shoes and I have been together nearly 400 miles now, so we're now comfortable with each other. No surprises. It's good.
I finished 7th overall in the race, which was pretty cool, and only one person in my 25-29 age group women beat me. She won't next time! And yes, I did cheer for Kate during the last bit of her swim where she looked super confident and strong.
Today's 10 mile Iron Girl race went pretty well, too! It was really cold out there along the lake (we did 2 loops around Tempe Town Lake) but the cute tshirts make up for it. And my trusty Asics were there to support me, just like always. They're okay with the wetsuit being a part of my life -- the shoes, the wetsuit and the bike have come to an understanding with one another that they serve very different needs and are all equally important. No one is jealous, at least that I know about.
So there you have it! This next weekend is my first ever bike race, the Tour de Tuscon, on Saturday morning. I did a little math and the 66 miles equals roughly 6 pancakes, two cups of coffee, a banana and a cookie.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Good News or Bad News First?
Do you want the good news or Bad news first? I'll start with Bad news.
Today was my last splash n dash. It was a 2000m swim and a 3k run. I was LAZY this morning and didn't want to get out of bed. I actually tried not to go to the race by hitting snooze on my alarm, but I felt too guilty. I knew it was the last Open Water Swim of the season so I had to suck it up.
I got to the race in the nick of time. I had time to register, get my wetsuit on and get down to the water. Suzanne and Peter were already dressed and ready. Of course all of the superfit tri god/goddesses were at the event. I imagine they were preparing for the Ironman Arizona that is taking place next Sunday.
I swam and I finished D-F-L! (Dead F*$&'ing Last!) I was so last that they started hualing in the Buoys in before I finished. I was so dead f'ing last that my cute little tribuddy Suzanne finished her swim and run and had time to root me on the last 100m of my swim. I finished SOO VERY last that they race company gave me 2 consolation prizes! That was crazy.
The Good news? I did it!! I swam 2000m in open water and didn't freak out or flip to my back or have a panic attack. I was slow but I was steady. I really did it!! I swam the distance of our Half Ironman!! This was s huge mental hurdle for me.
It was a LONG swim. I knew it would be tough for me. The longest I had ever swam was 1600m and that was some time ago. I'm pretty stoked about today's accomplishments. This was good for my head. Now that I know I can do the distance it is just a matter of improving on my time.
Next weekend I tackle the bike distance . . . BRING IT ON!!
Today was my last splash n dash. It was a 2000m swim and a 3k run. I was LAZY this morning and didn't want to get out of bed. I actually tried not to go to the race by hitting snooze on my alarm, but I felt too guilty. I knew it was the last Open Water Swim of the season so I had to suck it up.
I got to the race in the nick of time. I had time to register, get my wetsuit on and get down to the water. Suzanne and Peter were already dressed and ready. Of course all of the superfit tri god/goddesses were at the event. I imagine they were preparing for the Ironman Arizona that is taking place next Sunday.
I swam and I finished D-F-L! (Dead F*$&'ing Last!) I was so last that they started hualing in the Buoys in before I finished. I was so dead f'ing last that my cute little tribuddy Suzanne finished her swim and run and had time to root me on the last 100m of my swim. I finished SOO VERY last that they race company gave me 2 consolation prizes! That was crazy.
The Good news? I did it!! I swam 2000m in open water and didn't freak out or flip to my back or have a panic attack. I was slow but I was steady. I really did it!! I swam the distance of our Half Ironman!! This was s huge mental hurdle for me.
It was a LONG swim. I knew it would be tough for me. The longest I had ever swam was 1600m and that was some time ago. I'm pretty stoked about today's accomplishments. This was good for my head. Now that I know I can do the distance it is just a matter of improving on my time.
Next weekend I tackle the bike distance . . . BRING IT ON!!
Friday, November 13, 2009
To bike or write?
Yesterday I had a dilemma: work on a take home midterm (I'm saving my opinion on midterms given out 2 weeks before the end of the semester for another posting . . .) that's due next Tuesday but should be done by tonight (Friday) in the interest of not failing other classes or go ride with Tribe?
I debated most of the day. I love riding with the Thursday night group! I've been doing that since the beginning of September. It's usually a huge group, nearly 70 people of all speeds and shapes and whatnot, and even though I often find myself towards the back of the pack, it's great fun. But this nagging midterm!
6:00 pm rolled around, which is the time I usually get ready to head up to the Tribe shop for the 7:10 pm ride, and I was of course sitting at my laptop typing out rules about whether Indian tribes have regulatory jurisdiction over non-Indian owned land within their reservation (sorry. Nerded out on you for a second there) when I realized I was fast on the road to stir-crazy town.
I threw my bike, flat front tire and all, in the car, hopped in and drove off to Tribe before I could talk myself out it.
The ride was totally worth a couple hours lost on my exam, especially after doing nothing physical but walking up a flight of stairs in the law school on Wednesday. Normally this ride is 2 x (almost) 10 mile loops, but last night I rode a little farther up in the pack with a group a little faster than I'm used to. Not only did I manage to keep up really well and even pull the pace line for a few miles at 22 mph (!) but also eeked out a third lap. We didn't have a reason not to keep going, really, and no, I didn't want to come home right away and type type type.
So the ride was great! And like always, I was able to focus so much better once I did get back to my exam.
I debated most of the day. I love riding with the Thursday night group! I've been doing that since the beginning of September. It's usually a huge group, nearly 70 people of all speeds and shapes and whatnot, and even though I often find myself towards the back of the pack, it's great fun. But this nagging midterm!
6:00 pm rolled around, which is the time I usually get ready to head up to the Tribe shop for the 7:10 pm ride, and I was of course sitting at my laptop typing out rules about whether Indian tribes have regulatory jurisdiction over non-Indian owned land within their reservation (sorry. Nerded out on you for a second there) when I realized I was fast on the road to stir-crazy town.
I threw my bike, flat front tire and all, in the car, hopped in and drove off to Tribe before I could talk myself out it.
The ride was totally worth a couple hours lost on my exam, especially after doing nothing physical but walking up a flight of stairs in the law school on Wednesday. Normally this ride is 2 x (almost) 10 mile loops, but last night I rode a little farther up in the pack with a group a little faster than I'm used to. Not only did I manage to keep up really well and even pull the pace line for a few miles at 22 mph (!) but also eeked out a third lap. We didn't have a reason not to keep going, really, and no, I didn't want to come home right away and type type type.
So the ride was great! And like always, I was able to focus so much better once I did get back to my exam.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Suzanne's first post
I just wanted to note that I'm so proud of Suzanne's first post. (See two below) Not only is she the best triathlete of our group, she is also the best blogger, and the best swimmer, and the youngest, . . . OK, and the cutest too!! DAMN HER!!
Blue Water Triathlon - Kate's race report
Blue Water Triathlon
2009-11-08
Parker, Arizona
United States
Mountain Man Events
75F / 24CSunny
Triathlon - Long Course
Total Time = 3h 51m 39s
Overall Rank = 44/51
Age Group = W 35-39
Age Group Rank = 5/7
Pre-race routine: We packed up the family and drove 3.5 hours to Parker, Arizona. It was nice to have a family adventure. We ended up getting to the race site in time for packet pick up and the pre-race meeting. After the meeting we drove the race course (more hills than I expected) and settled into the hotel.
We connected with our friend Kyle (who will do the Half Ironman with us in March). This was his first full race. He did one and got 3 flats on during the race and called it day. Then he did a Half Ironman relay. He was the bike portion. Kyle was more than ready to get a race under his belt. We had a nice dinner and then went to our rooms.
I was very anxious b/c the course was so long. It was my longest race of the season - a 1k Swim, a 33 mile bike, and a 5 mile run. This was also my first race this season without Peter! I was a little out of sorts.
I woke up at 6:00 and got to the transition around 6:15. Our room was in a great location. We looked right onto transition and the finish was only steps away. Perfect for my hubby and kids. I ate a bar and a banana and drank some water. I was looking for cofee but there was no free coffee available. LAME!! I left my money in the room and didn't want to go back in and wake the family. I met up with Kyle and we hung out until his start. We were both anxious.
Swim Comments: I'm very happy with my swim. It felt good. I wasn't fast but I was steady and consistant. I did much better on my sighting as well. I even passed a few ladies. One freaky part was that the water was so clear you could see everything. When you got near the shore you could see all the weeds right below your head. It was scary. I thought I would see a hand come out and get me or a body like in a horror movie. SCARY!! Overall, it was actually the best I've ever felt during a swim. I'll take it.
What would you do differently?: Swim faster.
Transition 1 Comments: Again, no chip timing for this race and no transitions times. I think my first transition was pretty good. The wetsuit came off pretty easily and I had plenty of space for my stuff. My only problem was with my bike shoe. I couldn't get the insole to lay correctly so I ended up taking it out and riding without one.
Bike Comments: I felt ok on the bike but think I could do much better with more practice. I didn't have the gearing issues I had last week. I only passed one person. I need more hill work and more time in the saddle. My back started hurting around mile 20. Suzanne said I need to strengthen my core and gave me some exercise ideas. Hopefully that will help me.
Transition 2 Comments: Just an OK transition. Coming into transition 2 my 4 year old son said "Mom, you are a slow poke!!" True son. Very true.
Run Comments: I had no legs left after the bike. I was tired out. I had to start walk/running around mile 3. It was interesting that the run was my highest ranked part! Oh well.
What would you do differently?: Run the whole race.
Post race Warm down: No warm down. I rushed to my room to take a quick shower and head home.
What limited your ability to perform faster: WEIGHT!! I need to drop at least 20 before the California 70.3. I'm down about 14 since I started this training but I have a long way to go. I need to work on my food intake.
Event comments: No athena division and no trophy this race. That is ok though. I enjoyed this race. Small but well done. It was extra special having my husband and kids rooting me on at the transition. I would do definitely do it again.
2009-11-08
Parker, Arizona
United States
Mountain Man Events
75F / 24CSunny
Triathlon - Long Course
Total Time = 3h 51m 39s
Overall Rank = 44/51
Age Group = W 35-39
Age Group Rank = 5/7
Pre-race routine: We packed up the family and drove 3.5 hours to Parker, Arizona. It was nice to have a family adventure. We ended up getting to the race site in time for packet pick up and the pre-race meeting. After the meeting we drove the race course (more hills than I expected) and settled into the hotel.
We connected with our friend Kyle (who will do the Half Ironman with us in March). This was his first full race. He did one and got 3 flats on during the race and called it day. Then he did a Half Ironman relay. He was the bike portion. Kyle was more than ready to get a race under his belt. We had a nice dinner and then went to our rooms.
I was very anxious b/c the course was so long. It was my longest race of the season - a 1k Swim, a 33 mile bike, and a 5 mile run. This was also my first race this season without Peter! I was a little out of sorts.
I woke up at 6:00 and got to the transition around 6:15. Our room was in a great location. We looked right onto transition and the finish was only steps away. Perfect for my hubby and kids. I ate a bar and a banana and drank some water. I was looking for cofee but there was no free coffee available. LAME!! I left my money in the room and didn't want to go back in and wake the family. I met up with Kyle and we hung out until his start. We were both anxious.
Swim Comments: I'm very happy with my swim. It felt good. I wasn't fast but I was steady and consistant. I did much better on my sighting as well. I even passed a few ladies. One freaky part was that the water was so clear you could see everything. When you got near the shore you could see all the weeds right below your head. It was scary. I thought I would see a hand come out and get me or a body like in a horror movie. SCARY!! Overall, it was actually the best I've ever felt during a swim. I'll take it.
What would you do differently?: Swim faster.
Transition 1 Comments: Again, no chip timing for this race and no transitions times. I think my first transition was pretty good. The wetsuit came off pretty easily and I had plenty of space for my stuff. My only problem was with my bike shoe. I couldn't get the insole to lay correctly so I ended up taking it out and riding without one.
Bike Comments: I felt ok on the bike but think I could do much better with more practice. I didn't have the gearing issues I had last week. I only passed one person. I need more hill work and more time in the saddle. My back started hurting around mile 20. Suzanne said I need to strengthen my core and gave me some exercise ideas. Hopefully that will help me.
Transition 2 Comments: Just an OK transition. Coming into transition 2 my 4 year old son said "Mom, you are a slow poke!!" True son. Very true.
Run Comments: I had no legs left after the bike. I was tired out. I had to start walk/running around mile 3. It was interesting that the run was my highest ranked part! Oh well.
What would you do differently?: Run the whole race.
Post race Warm down: No warm down. I rushed to my room to take a quick shower and head home.
What limited your ability to perform faster: WEIGHT!! I need to drop at least 20 before the California 70.3. I'm down about 14 since I started this training but I have a long way to go. I need to work on my food intake.
Event comments: No athena division and no trophy this race. That is ok though. I enjoyed this race. Small but well done. It was extra special having my husband and kids rooting me on at the transition. I would do definitely do it again.
Hey! I've been remiss on my posting so to get started, check this out. It's actually an assignment I did for one of my classes but it's basically why I love the tri. It's also a bit wordy so I'll save more info about me for a later post.
“Nothing but strength,” I hear in my head. It’s my spin teacher’s voice, and he is louder than just about anyone else I know. He doesn’t even use the microphone in the room, but he is just a couple decibels below deafening. “Too easy!” he yells, terrifying and encouraging at the same time. But this time I’m not in the crowded classroom with a techno version of Mortal Kombat on the stereo. This time it’s real.
It’s nearing 7:30 on a Sunday morning in late September and it’s hot outside. My hair is dry already. Supposed to hit 109 degrees by mid-afternoon and it’s one of those days I have to think long and hard about why I moved here from Portland. It’s one of those days when I think about boots and jeans and a wool sweater, a hot pumpkin spice latte and an umbrella. But instead of drinking the cozy coffee I pedal just a little faster, push pull push pull. It’s a damn good thing I love this.
“This” is my triathlon fever. This keeps me sane. This lets me eat a cookie without feeling guilty. This gives me a reason to swim outside and keep my tan, slathered in sunscreen, of course. This gives me time to think, to draft papers in my head, to ponder UCC Article 2-207 without accidentally highlighting my hand. This is my productive procrastination.
The headwind hits me hard as I come around the corner. Three riders fly past me.
“Nothing but strength, nothing but strength.”
And I see the end of the course, so I settle into my drop bars and pull up with my hamstrings because next is the run. “Save the quads,” I tell myself. “Now go. Go. GO!” Off the bike, through transition and out the other side in my beloved Asics.
The three riders who passed me aren’t too far ahead now. It’s only a 5k so I have to pick up the pace to pass them. I give them a name – the Lizards, because of their green and black Landis Tri Club suits – and decide that by the next water station I’ll be ahead again. And I am. I love passing people.
“Suzanne Trujillo!” I pour on the last smidge of speed I have left and sprint the final 100 yards to the finish line as the announcer yells out my name. One thing I love about this place: people can pronounce my last name.
I grew up in a swimming pool. I started lessons at age two, swim team at six and by high school was swimming for both a club and the high school team. My club coach made us swim for our high schools even though no one wanted to. But it was that or the threat of thousands of pushups, so we dutifully anchored the relays and cheered for our fellow Gophers, Bruins, Raiders, Eagles. I was in a pool close to 30 hours a week, and I loved it. It gave me time to put my head down and go, to think, to write my papers, and to feel at home among my chlorine-soaked friends.
After knee surgery my junior year, burnout started to set in. Most of my friends graduated and went away, and it just wasn’t fun anymore. I was good, but not full-ride-to-a-Division-1-school good. After I quit swimming my senior year, I didn’t get back into a pool for anything but floating for nearly six years. So crew at University of Oregon took the place of swimming, and our coach made us run. A lot. Even the second surgery to the same knee didn’t stop me. In Track Town USA, I ran and ran and ran. Just like swimming, it was my time to think, to write my papers, to be part of a group. Kept the beer calories in check as an added bonus.
On the first day of law school when I was terrified of the decision I made to be here, when I wanted to just go home to normal temperatures, and when my classmates were complaining of Contracts nightmares, I ran. I was two of four months into my marathon training. Law school helped me remember the power of mind-numbing monotonous workouts; one foot in front of the other is a great stress outlet, a tool for time management, an escape from the library and the contagious anxiety.
“If I can run, then I can sleep. If I can sleep, then I can study. And if I can study, then I can be a lawyer. A good lawyer. So run.”
My first triathlon was second semester of 1L year. I didn’t even have my own bike, and the pre-race nerves were the same as the pre-final exam nerves. But for me, they’re a sign I’m ready. I’ve prepared enough to know what I’m in for. So I swam. I jumped on my borrowed and ill-fitting bike and flew, partly to beat people and partly because the bike was so uncomfortable. Then the run. Like a final exam, it requires strategy, time management, even proper nutrition – too much coffee right before is a mistake, but not enough is just as bad.
“Suzanne Trujillo!” yelled the announcer as I flew over the finish line. And I was hooked. Even though I was so nervous I nearly got sick, I loved it. I also resolved to buy a bike.
My decision to become a lawyer is as close to set in stone as things can ever be. Triathlon does not reinforce or threaten that decision. It enables the decision. It helps me manage the stress of classes, of exams, of the job search. It continually makes me more efficient, more conscientious, and it usually makes me hungry. It gives me purpose at the gym – I want that Ironman tattoo, probably on my shoulder. And it doesn’t hurt to know that if all else fails, I could go pro.
“Nothing but strength,” I hear in my head. It’s my spin teacher’s voice, and he is louder than just about anyone else I know. He doesn’t even use the microphone in the room, but he is just a couple decibels below deafening. “Too easy!” he yells, terrifying and encouraging at the same time. But this time I’m not in the crowded classroom with a techno version of Mortal Kombat on the stereo. This time it’s real.
It’s nearing 7:30 on a Sunday morning in late September and it’s hot outside. My hair is dry already. Supposed to hit 109 degrees by mid-afternoon and it’s one of those days I have to think long and hard about why I moved here from Portland. It’s one of those days when I think about boots and jeans and a wool sweater, a hot pumpkin spice latte and an umbrella. But instead of drinking the cozy coffee I pedal just a little faster, push pull push pull. It’s a damn good thing I love this.
“This” is my triathlon fever. This keeps me sane. This lets me eat a cookie without feeling guilty. This gives me a reason to swim outside and keep my tan, slathered in sunscreen, of course. This gives me time to think, to draft papers in my head, to ponder UCC Article 2-207 without accidentally highlighting my hand. This is my productive procrastination.
The headwind hits me hard as I come around the corner. Three riders fly past me.
“Nothing but strength, nothing but strength.”
And I see the end of the course, so I settle into my drop bars and pull up with my hamstrings because next is the run. “Save the quads,” I tell myself. “Now go. Go. GO!” Off the bike, through transition and out the other side in my beloved Asics.
The three riders who passed me aren’t too far ahead now. It’s only a 5k so I have to pick up the pace to pass them. I give them a name – the Lizards, because of their green and black Landis Tri Club suits – and decide that by the next water station I’ll be ahead again. And I am. I love passing people.
“Suzanne Trujillo!” I pour on the last smidge of speed I have left and sprint the final 100 yards to the finish line as the announcer yells out my name. One thing I love about this place: people can pronounce my last name.
I grew up in a swimming pool. I started lessons at age two, swim team at six and by high school was swimming for both a club and the high school team. My club coach made us swim for our high schools even though no one wanted to. But it was that or the threat of thousands of pushups, so we dutifully anchored the relays and cheered for our fellow Gophers, Bruins, Raiders, Eagles. I was in a pool close to 30 hours a week, and I loved it. It gave me time to put my head down and go, to think, to write my papers, and to feel at home among my chlorine-soaked friends.
After knee surgery my junior year, burnout started to set in. Most of my friends graduated and went away, and it just wasn’t fun anymore. I was good, but not full-ride-to-a-Division-1-school good. After I quit swimming my senior year, I didn’t get back into a pool for anything but floating for nearly six years. So crew at University of Oregon took the place of swimming, and our coach made us run. A lot. Even the second surgery to the same knee didn’t stop me. In Track Town USA, I ran and ran and ran. Just like swimming, it was my time to think, to write my papers, to be part of a group. Kept the beer calories in check as an added bonus.
On the first day of law school when I was terrified of the decision I made to be here, when I wanted to just go home to normal temperatures, and when my classmates were complaining of Contracts nightmares, I ran. I was two of four months into my marathon training. Law school helped me remember the power of mind-numbing monotonous workouts; one foot in front of the other is a great stress outlet, a tool for time management, an escape from the library and the contagious anxiety.
“If I can run, then I can sleep. If I can sleep, then I can study. And if I can study, then I can be a lawyer. A good lawyer. So run.”
My first triathlon was second semester of 1L year. I didn’t even have my own bike, and the pre-race nerves were the same as the pre-final exam nerves. But for me, they’re a sign I’m ready. I’ve prepared enough to know what I’m in for. So I swam. I jumped on my borrowed and ill-fitting bike and flew, partly to beat people and partly because the bike was so uncomfortable. Then the run. Like a final exam, it requires strategy, time management, even proper nutrition – too much coffee right before is a mistake, but not enough is just as bad.
“Suzanne Trujillo!” yelled the announcer as I flew over the finish line. And I was hooked. Even though I was so nervous I nearly got sick, I loved it. I also resolved to buy a bike.
My decision to become a lawyer is as close to set in stone as things can ever be. Triathlon does not reinforce or threaten that decision. It enables the decision. It helps me manage the stress of classes, of exams, of the job search. It continually makes me more efficient, more conscientious, and it usually makes me hungry. It gives me purpose at the gym – I want that Ironman tattoo, probably on my shoulder. And it doesn’t hurt to know that if all else fails, I could go pro.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Amica Championship - Kate's Race Report
[Photo: Peter and Kate after the Lake Pleasant Triathlon. Behind us is the lake where we did our swim. We are standing in front of the boat ramp. The ramp is the steep road we have to walk/run up to get to the transition. It seemed very long!]
Amica Championship
2009-11-01
Phoenix, Arizona
United States Amica
75F / 24C Sunny
Triathlon - Sprint
Total Time = 2h 18m 46s
Overall Female Rank = 39/62 (I wasn't ranked overall. I ranked myself based on where my time fit with the others.)
Group = Athena
Group Rank = 1/4
(An Athena racer is a woman who weighs 160 and above. I call it the "big girl category" but my husband doesn't like that. The male version is a Clydesdale and that is 200 pounds and above. When i signed up for this race I could have raced in my age group or weight group. I chose weight b/c I thought that is where I belong for now. I am so big I can't really compete with those women. For now . . .! It is interesting that a lot of big women don't race in the Athena division. I think they don't want to admit they weigh over 160!)
Pre-race routine: I was not feeling fresh and ready for this race. The night before was Halloween so I ate poorly and had a couple glasses of wine. I had also come off two days of pretty hard exercise. This was not ideal. This race was not originally on my calendar but my bro-in-law wanted to do it b/c he can't do this week's race. I decided at the last minute to go for but I should have thought out my training schedule better. I did go to bed early and try to hydrate myself. I got up at 5:00 and was out the door by 5:30. Got some coffee and oatmeal and headed up north. I was a little frustrated that I wasn't more prepared. I should have mapped the event instead of relying on their directions. If I had I could have taken a more direct route and got there a little earlier. When I arrived at the race I had to walk a ways with my bike and equipment. I felt rushed b/c I decided to get my stuff race morning. When I got to the table I realized I forgot my temporary triathlon card so I had to buy a new one. Bummer. Once I got my stuff I had to scramble to get my stuff together. I was pretty focused though and the ladies near me were very nice. No real attitudes like you get at some races from neighboring racers. I didn't see my bro-in-law until I had cleared transition with my wetsuit. I was suprised to see the race was so small. I think there were only like 300 racers. 62 in the women category and 4 athenas. I was also shocked there were not chips at a championship event.
Swim Comments: Swim is always a crazy time for me. I was calmer than I had been a other races b/c I had just had a successful splash n dash. This water was much more clear and I had a lot of visibility under the water. I did well going to the first buoy and actually felt myself passing people. My heart rate went up and I felt like flipping to my back but I kept on going. I rounded the first buoy in good shape. i ran into trouble with the second buoy. I got into a groove and kept swimming. I lifeguard redirected me b/c I was swimming into the center of the triangle. That flustered me a little and I over corrected. My sighting obviously needs some work. I think I zigzagged the whole way to the next buoy. I started to get frustrated but I tried to pretend it was just practice. When I rounded the second buoy it was easier to sight b/c of the shore line. I finished and i knew I didn't do great but I also knew I wasn't the last one out of the water. I was ok. My swim is a work in progress. The Positives are that I didn't freak out (and I knew I was on the verge of it) and I kept in a rhythm.
What would you do differently?: A few things: (1) I really need to figure out my sighting issues. Probably every 3 to instead of every 10 strokes. (2) I also need to keep practicing my OWS. I think I just need more confidence in the water. (3) I need to practice being ok with contact in the water. I don't like it! I notice I don't know what to do when I get hit.
Transition #1 Comments: No chip timing so my swim time included the transition. After we got out of the water we had to go up a very long and very steep boat ramp and get out of my wetsuit. I did manage to get it half way down on my way up the boat ramp. I did pass a couple other swimmers in transition.
What would you do differently?: I would have ran up the ramp instead of walk. I would of had some gu with me. Forgot that.
Bike Comments: Tough bike course but I'm happy with my performance. It was two laps of a hilly course and I had to work it. I'm slow going up and fast going down. I had some trouble shifting from my little climbing ring to my big ring. Towards the end of my ride I had to balance my body on the handles and try to shift using both hands! Crazy. I felt like I was able to make up some time in this area.
What would you do differently?: I need to really work on my hills and Lose some weight!
Transition #2 Comments: I felt ok with this. One of my neighbors had a bucket so I sat on that to put my shoes on. I thought is went ok. I needed some nutrition at this point. I can't forget food again!
Run Comments: My time is very slow compared to my usual runs. I ended up walking all the steep hills and jogging the flats and downhills. My legs were hurtin' from the bike hills so I figured what the heck. Looking back now, i wish I would have pushed it more and run up the hills.
Post race Warm down: I ran to the finish line and Peter was there cheering me on! He probably finish about 20 minutes before me. When I crossed the line I walked to the food. I sat and chatted with some folks. I liked the atmosphere and was anxious to see who won the Athena division. There were many more "Athenas" looking racers than I had seen at past races. After seeing there were only 4 Athenas in my division it is clear many of them chose to race in Age Division. The announcer started calling winners and I was shocked when he called my name as a winner. I started laughing b/c I couldn't believe it. I have to admit, I really dug it! I got a cool trophy and people were excited for me. I think it was the pick me up I needed going into our 20 week mark before our Half Ironman.
What limited your ability to perform faster?: I had 3 major issues: (1) My weight, (2) gear issue, and (3) swim sighting. I also should have taken it a little easier before the race. I was logging some serious activity before the race. Not the smartest.
Event comments: I enjoyed this triathlon a lot. Post race food good! The awards were nice. The trophy was a wooden cactus. Cute. The MC was great. Nice techincal shirt & water bottle for signing up.
I have another race this weekend. I'm headed to parker Arizona with Ron and the kids. Wish me luck!!
Peter's swim counter
This is the swim lap counter. You where it on your pointer finger like a ring and hit it with your thumb for each lap. I have one to and I agree it is awesome! Peter's swim is awesome right now. He has improved so much since his first lesson this summer. He ROCKS!
Lap Counter and Lake Pleasant Tri
I have been meaning to blog about how much I love my lap counter but have been too too lazy. So I'll say it now and say it proud. I love my swim lap counter. It is awesome and I highly recommend it. I think a large part of the reason is that I lose count after 10 laps or so. Now I can just focus on my stroke, rather than repeating over and over the lap that I am on in my head while I am swimming. As you can imagine, that gets pretty boring. Now with the fancy new lap counter (that I have been using for over a month) I can just focus on stroke and actually relax while swimming. Other super cool functionalities - it give me my average lap time, total time, fastest lap and slowest lap. Very cool.
Kate - I am guilting you to actually post a pic of the lap counter as I am technologically impaired.
Other good news - Kate and I rocked the splash and dash last Friday.
Even better news - Kate and I head banged (that is, we really rocked it) the Lake Pleasant Tri on Sunday. The swim was great. Water was clear and warm. I focused upon my sighting by trying to sight as little as possible. Instead I was able to follow the bubbles of people in front of me. Good thing I started at the back of the pack. It also makes a difference when you actually have more than 6 inches of visibility. The bike portion was tough. Lots of hill work. Run was tough also. It was an out and back with the "out" being all uphill. Whew! And I won't even get started on all the bees at the finish area.
And the best news! - Kate took home a fancy new trophy! Woo hoo! First Place!
Kate - I am guilting you to actually post a pic of the lap counter as I am technologically impaired.
Other good news - Kate and I rocked the splash and dash last Friday.
Even better news - Kate and I head banged (that is, we really rocked it) the Lake Pleasant Tri on Sunday. The swim was great. Water was clear and warm. I focused upon my sighting by trying to sight as little as possible. Instead I was able to follow the bubbles of people in front of me. Good thing I started at the back of the pack. It also makes a difference when you actually have more than 6 inches of visibility. The bike portion was tough. Lots of hill work. Run was tough also. It was an out and back with the "out" being all uphill. Whew! And I won't even get started on all the bees at the finish area.
And the best news! - Kate took home a fancy new trophy! Woo hoo! First Place!
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