A First!

Nope, not talking about a PR.

Nor a new distance.

Just a lovely chaffing rash under my bra line from running today.

It was only six miles.

And it is December.

Guess my bodyglide will be coming out of hibernation for this winter.

My Watch and Me

With Masters class cancelled for the next two weeks, I headed out yesterday for a solitary swim workout. Arriving at the Y to a full pool, I walked over to a lane with most polite looking swimmer – and it turned out to be TRIgirl BL, her husband whipping by in the next lane over. We chatted for a bit and then she glided off to finish her swim as I eased myself into the cold water to begin mine. There was a workout posted on the pool’s whiteboard, so I decided to give it a try. First was a 600 warm-up. I was feeling pretty good as I knocked out the 12 laps.

The main set was five 400s – broken up into 200s and 100s. I knew I couldn’t make the one interval time that was posted, but figured it would be a good way to set some baselines with my new and cool Christmas present – a swim watch. I checked my time after the first two 200s. The same sucky time for both - to the second. Hmph.

I gave my watch the evil eye. How dare it tell me I am so much slower than I hoped?

So I started on the four 100s. The first one was exactly half of the 200s. At least I was consistently sucky.

I thought to myself “I hate my watch.”

Annoyed, I continued with the next two 100s. Two seconds better. Three seconds better.

I decided not to time the next two 200s and work on form. They flew by and then it was time to confront the watch – and the 100s - again. Continuing through the 100s, my times (thankfully) improved, and I finished the last 100 seven seconds better than the first one of the day.

OK watch, maybe we’ve progressed to the like stage.

Favorite Gifts

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday!

For the past few years, one person or another in my immediate family has suggested scaling back for Christmas, celebrating more simply. But it has yet to really happen. A special present one year, a good year financially the next, the plans are usually thwarted before the Christmas trees are decorated. This year was no different.

But my favorite Christmas presents this year were not the most expensive ones (though I did love them, too).

Given how well I’ve treated myself during this Ironman year, between race fees and new equipment, I told my husband not to worry about me for Christmas, except for one thing. Something I didn’t even realize I wanted/needed this year until we put up the tree and I noticed the many different wire fox terrier ornaments we’d collected over the years – but alas, no bichons! I couldn’t believe it – Fezzy has been with us over a year and we did not have one ornament for him. Maybe it was because he was a surprise around Christmas time last year. Or maybe it was because we decided to not put up a tree last December.

And so, my husband listened. A week or so before Christmas, there was a package waiting on the stoop with two adorable bichon ornaments. Our tree seems much more complete and pretty with these latest additions.

On Christmas Eve, my brother and sister-in-law gave my husband and me a beautiful glass ornament honoring our sweet Wesley who crossed over to the Rainbow Bridge in May 2006. Between the hand-painted picture capturing Wesley’s spunky eyes and cute face – and a “forever in our hearts” message – I think I teared up for about 10 minutes. They also gave an ornament to my mom and dad for Shelby, another fox terrier that shared our home and memories.

Then, Christmas Day, the hubby and I were to be traveling I95 while most folks would still be celebrating. My crazy and wonderful family rushed around to squeeze in one more get together before the road trip back to Virginia. And in the midst of a quick meal and packing the car, my brother and sister-in-law gave us another thoughtful surprise - a frame with Fezzy and Buttercup’s pawprints pressed carefully on one side – and room for a special picture on the other. I’m already debating where to display it (after I figure out which pictures to use)!

Presents that remind me of my furkids – what could be better?

Love Me Some Outdoors

This is so sad - I started this post several days ago, when it was a little more fresh in my mind. But between work and holiday preparations, I wasn't able to finish it until tonight (Thursday)! So please excuse this somewhat late account of last weekend's awesome bike ride!
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TRIDi, Popscr and REB60 invited me to join them on Saturday for a bike ride. Standing on my deck that morning watching while Buttercup and Fezzy took care of their business, I thought to myself, "It is going to be a chilly one!"

Since my Christmas list includes all sorts of items I never thought I'd ever need until this year, like arm warmers, bike shoe booties and such, I scoured my closet to figure out what to wear. Fleece lined exercise pants, gortex turtleneck, bicycle jersey, a pair of borrowed arm warmers, heavy fleece sweatshirt and TRIgirl bicycle jacket later - I headed off to meet the crew at TRIDi's house, feeling more like the Michelin man than anything.

My fellow bicyclists were waiting for me, ready to go and a little more properly dressed. We headed off to do two loops around TRIDi's house, including a few more trafficked roads (she being a daring traffic connoisseur).

It was cold at first. But about five miles into the ride, it didn't matter. My mega layered torso must have been radiating enough heat throughout my body that even my ungloved fingers were warm. While our speed seemed faster than what it actually was, I occasionally thought I heard a manic Annnn laugh in the distance.

The ride flew by. We did a little over twenty miles in about an hour and fifteen minutes. TRIDi, Popscr and REB60 plan on riding every Saturday, weather permitting, and don't seem to mind if I tag along. Which convinced me - I am going to ride outdoors with them as much as possible during this winter off-season.

I will miss the discussions and music of indoor cycling class, though I am keeping my fingers crossed that no one minds if I still drop in on really bad weather days.

And I hope they understand that I just can't resist the lure a good ole outdoor ride!

Believing

Yesterday was Masters swim class.

For several months now, I've been arriving to Masters class and Ironwoman Canada has pointed to the same lane. I've longingly looked over at the lane where I used to swim. Where I wasn't always the slowest. Where I'd sometimes find familiar and kind faces. Where there'd be people who would be less concerned about intervals and would want to chat and catch-up between sets.

For several months now, I've swam in the Lane of Dread. With swimmers who'd be so far ahead, they'd lap me on a 200. With several folks who'd strictly adhere to their assigned intervals and had no interest in waiting for the rest of the group (aka, me) to catch-up. With a few guys who can be pretty darn competitive - and have thankfully tolerated me - probably because I've immediately moved over anytime they have come close to my toes.

Every once in awhile, Ironwoman Canada would shift over the superfast people into the next lane, but I would almost always still be the slowest with the swimmers that remained.

So, yesterday, I plopped myself in this lane with my normal sigh of resignation. We started our drills. I was still falling behind, but the gap didn't seem quite as large.

Then we started the first of a bunch of sets of 100s and 200s. I wasn't being lapped. I was finishing close to or before the person in front of me started their next split.

With the next few sets, I decided to try to reach the person in front of me. I'd never been able to draft off these swimmers before. But, somehow, I was doing it - I was keeping up enough to draft.

I'd finish a set and wonder when I'd tire or when the other swimmers would kick into their normal speed. I found myself huffing and puffing, but still hanging on. Even when we went to the 300, the pull buoys or the modified IMs, I was within a respectable distance.

When we ended the class, the guy who I had been drafting off of all night, joked with me and said "Next time, you'll need to lead a few sets." I think we both knew I won't be ready for that for long while, but it was still an indirect compliment - you're doing better.

As everyone began leaving the pool, I walked out with Ironwoman Canada. Around this time I was starting to wonder, maybe these guys were injured or sick or Ironwoman Canada had told them to go easy and let me draft. As I started to voice these thoughts, Ironwoman Canada cut me off.

She told me they weren't true.

She told me she'd been putting me in this lane for a reason - for a day like today to arrive.

She told me I needed to be less timid.

She told me that I had more ability than I thought I did - and that I needed to push myself.

And she told me that one of my biggest obstacles has been just believing in myself.

I'm still a little skeptical about what next week's Masters class will bring, but am mulling over these few new ways of thinking. For trying out a few revised self-definitions.

For wondering what could lay ahead by just believing in myself.

Please Vote for Mommy - by Fezzy

Mommy has been very busy lately trying to keep up with work and life in general - so I've had a chance to sneak onto the computer and tell you all that her blog has been nominated for an RVA 2k7 Blog Award by the ever so awesome Triathlonmom. She is very flattered and is so honored to be listed among such talented writers.

Go take a look - blogs by Triathlonmom (Near West End News) and TRIgirl Cyndi (Simply Tri-ing) have also been nominated!

And please vote for them all. The more time Mommy blogs, the less time she will be gone working or training!

Shifting Gears

While not quite a year in review or list of new resolutions, some changes seem to be a'brewing.

Last year, the past 12 months, have been a static-charged experience. There was so much to learn, so many distances to accomplish, so many obstacles to overcome. To think, last December, I couldn't swim in a wetsuit or take in more than 100 calories during a workout, let alone complete an IM, a half IM or even a marathon.

It's been a crazy ride.

Now, there is less anxiety stepping into off-season training. Rather than continuing along the path of constant uncharted territories, the next year is already feeling a little more...familiar. And with that comes a sense of peace - and dare I say - confidence?

I don't have to participate in every race that pops up - I can choose the ones I really want to do.

I don't have to stick to every single workout exactly as prescribed - I've learned enough about my body to brave adapting some training sessions on my own.

I don't have to worry (as much) about whether I can merely do something - I can focus more on attempting to do it better.

As crazy as it may sound, I've been feeling charged since IMFL - like there are untapped wells still be explored in my triathlon future.

Instead of painstakingly plotting every minute detail of the roads ahead, I think I am going to sit back a bit and see where this next journey takes me.

A Life Lesson

There are moments that leave you wishing you could turn back the clock or do things differently.

This week, I fired my cleaning people. For months, I'd come home and see the same stains on the floors or notice niches of my house that looked like they'd hadn't seen a dust rag in months.

Every once in awhile, I'd leave a note - "Please clean floors thoroughly" or "Bathrooms need some extra attention." There'd be a slight difference for that week, but the message never really carried over.

Then a month ago, I took a personal day to go to the doctor and run some errands. My doctor's appointment was for 9:30. I left around 9:00 and was home by 10:45. Within that hour and 45 minutes, the cleaning people came - and left. I had no idea how long they actually stayed - but I doubt it was more than an hour. As a matter of fact, when I told my neighbors - they were like, "We've been wondering whether to mention to you..."

So I left a note this week, asking for the key and thanking them for their service. To which I received the following back.

"We told you to tell us if we weren't doing something right, but you didn't."

Guilt. Even though I "thought" I did. Maybe I should have waited till after the holidays. Maybe I should have been more clear or given them another chance or issued an ultimatum. Or, or...

Then tonight, I found out that I was part of something that unintentionally hurt someone I care about and respect greatly. And though part of my part included trying to avoid such a thing from happening - I never took the time to double check - to make sure all the bases were covered and all the "i"s were dotted.

Generally, I am better about being on top of these type of things. The proofing, the fact checking, the editing - that is what I do all day long. There are excuses I could throw out about what happened - but they really don't matter. Honestly, I don't deserve, nor want, a pass here - I should have been more aware - more conscientious - more on top of things.

Because if I was that person, I'd be hurt, too.

Makes the whole cleaning people thing look ridiculous.

For now, I just need to look for a way to make amends, to apologize - and to take from this a lesson - to not let life's craziness get in the way of making sure to do the double-checking when it really matters the most.

What's Next?

Though I haven’t experienced any of the “blues” that I’ve heard can hit people after finishing an Ironman – coming back to this blog has been a little weird.

The “Journey to Ironman” title didn’t seem right anymore. Nor did my profile. The training details were the workouts that got me to IMFL. All the 2007 races were over.

So I made a few quick changes and will be working on other blog updates over the next few weeks. Maybe it is time to waken my limited creative juices during this off season. Design a custom new banner. Play with a few new sections.

Alas, a new 2008 race schedule is needed. The biggies I am most excited about are White Lake Half (with many TRIgirls), 4.4 Chesapeake Swim (after a nerve wracking few days of waiting for my lottery ticket to win!) – and probably MightyMan (an extra bonus will be if my brother, sister-in-law and their close friend, Mundy, sign-up as a relay (hint, hint)). I am guessing there will be a few other races – like the Monument 10K and possibly the Shady Grove or Sandman Sprints.

There will be no IM listed. I couldn’t bring myself to register for IMFL 2008 before I knew what would happen this year. A few TRIgirls worked hard to convince me IM Brazil should be on my schedule – but May seemed too soon. The biggest temptation was the new November 2008 IMAZ that opened up this week. But, after much thought, it just didn’t seem right – I need to give my family – and my wallet – a break. I’ll most likely be going this year – but it will be as a volunteer.

And IMAZ 2009 is looking really good. The new date fits nicely for training. My parents, who’ve become big IM cheerleaders, said they would go. A close friend is moving to Phoenix in January – so I’ll have the perfect excuse to justify a few visits.

My journey to my first Ironman is complete. And between the energy surge from finishing an IM and the promise of new challenges, I believe a few pretty, flippin' (love that word, TRIgirl CD) amazing, new experiences may lay beyond.

Life after Ironman

While taking forever to complete my race report, life returned to normal in many ways, but changed in a few, too.

The week after Ironman was full of little celebrations, including a wonderful lunch for TRIgirl LD and me thrown by our coworkers, massage gift certificates from my brother and sister-in-law (whoo hoo!), creative scrapbooking items from my cousins, roses from the hubby and autumn flowers from my aunt and uncle. After about three days, I felt ready to resume training, so having get togethers planned with friends was probably a good thing that prevented me from foolishly attempting workouts that my body wasn't ready to handle.

With a week of complete rest, I started back up with a few short runs and swims. They went well and I've been gradually increasing distances and intensity. Though TRIgirls SL and CH - along with Coaches G and S - put my measly workouts to shame by completing the Richmond marathon a week after doing IMFL. And oh, by the way, TRIgirl SL and Coach S ended up qualifying for Boston!

We all had one piece of unfinished business left - tattoos as promised by Coach S. We ended up going in three groups - with 7 out of the 9 TRIgirls getting inked. TRIgirl DL and I headed off together. We both wanted to personalize our MDOTs a bit.



TRIgirl DL placed her pink MDOT on her right outside ankle and added a wave to represent her love for scuba diving.


I put mine on my left inside ankle. And choose an orange M for Florida, added a flower dot for all the TRIgirls and girlied it up some more. (Photos are from my cellphone - not the best quality.)

I freaked out for about a half hour afterwards, wondering what I'd done, but have had no regrets since.

Thanksgiving week was spent in NY. Lots of great times visiting with friends and family - and sharing my brother and sister-in-law's first Thanksgiving in their lovely new home. Many people were gushing congratulations and wanted to hear all the IMFL details - it was almost embarrassing! I started to think to myself - gosh, it wasn't all THAT. My parents even gave me a beautiful and thoughtful crystal necklace - circles - for the "complete" athlete. I totally love it!

Reminders everywhere of all the incredible support I know I am so fortunate to have.

Ironman Florida - Race Report - Finally, The Finish

With Alvin’s in sight, I passed the last aid station.

One mile left.

A year of training.

244,100 meters swam.

2,683 miles biked.

687 miles ran.

So many lessons learned.

For the first time in the race, I was having a real conversation with another runner, more than just a "Looking strong" or "Great job". About a quarter mile till the finish - I decided we should both have our own moment when hitting the banner. I picked up my pace a little and told this sweet, first time IMer "Congratulations, Ironman!" But I held back, too. I wanted to savor the last few minutes.

Soon, I was in my own space surrounded by a wildly cheering crowd. I looked around to see who they were yelling for - and realized they were going crazy for each and every racer - including me. Waving to people calling out my name, the finish line was just yards away. I caught my Dad and brother walking toward the finish area. Mike Reilly was talking about how even though it might be more politically correct to use the term "Ironwoman" - all race finishers were called an Ironman.

And then, my name, my hometown - and "You are an Ironman!"

Looking up I saw my time, 14:08. Better than I'd ever hoped.

I'd always thought I'd cry if/when I crossed the finish line. But I didn't. I was just too incredibly dazed, relieved, awed - overjoyed.

An ambush of volunteers. Someone walked next to me, "How are you feeling?" "I feel GREAT!" Someone took my timing chip. Someone gave me a foil blanket. Someone handed me a finisher's shirt and hat. Someone draped a medal around my neck.
Coach G and B were right there - smiling widely. Coach G and I shared a huge hug, full of many unspoken words, thoughts, feelings and memories. Another one with Coach B.

Then, my mom and sister-in-law next - more fabulous hugs and a mad rush to spill out 14 hours worth of experiences. My dad, brother and husband squeezed in through the group. I was overwhelmed with their excitement, pride and love. I can only think of a few moments in my life that compared to this joy, exhiliration - and sense of accomplishment

The next few hours were a blur of catching up with my teammates, cheering in more TRIgirls and other racers, taking a bunch of photos, having a much appreciated, long, massage and slowly moving my stiff and swollen body.

So, this race report has taken two weeks to complete - time for recovering, reliving and celebrating. And to think about all the amazing people who've generously helped, supported and inspired me along this journey. The friends, family and coworkers cheering from afar, the TRIgirl sherpas and volunteers - and the unbelievable folks that were in Florida with me.

My wonderful and talented coaches:

• Ironwoman Canada – Finding the winning analogies to make this athletically challenged girl finally have “aha” moments. Loaning me your way cool race wheels. Preparing me mentally, as well as, physically.
• Coach S – Encouraging us to love and “be one” with the water. Promising us pink MDOT tattoos. Running over to us early race morning with such contagious joy.
• Coach E – Teaching bike skills one challenging drill at a time. Teaching me to understand the beauty of the draft. Teaching me to believe a baby bicyclist may lurk inside this middle age body.
• Coach M – Words of wisdom (“It is what it is”) and pain (“Yummy”). Words to motivate (“Look at that steady pace.”). And words to make you believe (“You all were ready for IM three weeks ago” [before our taper!].)
• Coach B – Tirelessly listening and answering any race or training question. Dragging a grill and tons of food to our Eastern Shore weekend. Ensuring that we savor every moment of the IM experience. Showing us that the fortitude to complete an IM sometimes needs to be dug out from deep within.
• Coach G – Inspiring all women through TRIgirls. Inspiring moms by racing just a few months after giving birth. Inspiring me to believe I could attempt – and holy cow – finish an Ironman.

My awesome and awe inspiring teammates - and the memories we've shared:

• TRIgirl KB – Taking pity on a very tired TRIgirl 40 on a long and windy Route 14 ride. Inspiring me with your athletic talents, but also, your humble and caring attitude.
• TRIgirl SK – Riding with me for a few minutes and giving me a glimpse of one of the strongest female bicyclists around. Seeing you - and your wonderful, genuine smile - during training workouts.
• TRIgirl SL – (My fellow 40 year old TRIgirl Ironman!) Sharing tears pre-race and wine post-race. Making me laugh and relax with your reassuring and witty observations on training - and life!
• TRIgirl CD – Organizing the details for our crazy group. Being our mom by planning water stops during long runs and cooking yummy dishes to fortify us at the Eastern Shore. Inspiring us with famous quotes and your own words that were always the perfect message for the moment.
• TRIgirl LD – Car pooling together to the VITA course. Showing me that a competitive spirit during a race has its place along with lolly gagging around looking at flowers and trees.
• TRIgirl AM - The first TRIgirl to dare - to take the plunge and commit to Ironman! Sharing fantastic training (Lake Chesdin) and post-race experiences (Opus 9) with you and Devilface.
• TRIgirl CH – Being a voice of perspective - a missed workout would not cause us to bomb at a race. Reminding me Ironman is awesome, but needs to kept in balance with the really important things in life.
• TRIgirl DL - (Did you ever think we’d ever complete an Ironman when we were training for the Nags Head sprint years ago?) Being a pace Nazi on our long runs. Riding many dark and cold mornings together. Thinking about all you’ve overcome - your determination and fortitude.

My incredible family:

• My brother and sister-in-law - Checking in on my training and coming up with thoughtful gifts and messages that helped me survive the past year. Flying down to Florida to share this experience. Being the absolute best brother and sister - so grateful I lucked out with both of you!



• My mom and dad - Showing the perfect amount of concern and encouragement . Being my biggest cheerleaders. Coming to Panama City to share this experience. Your pride and joy recharged me during the race - and made achieving this goal even more memorable.




• The hubby - Picking up the slack this year to take care of our furkids. Running errands to keep me well fed, even for some of my crazy cravings. Being my sherpa race day and taking care of all things even before I realized they needed to be done. Supporting me and understanding the importance of this demanding goal and lofty dream.

And so ends my journey to Ironman. The road more winding, challenging and rewarding than ever anticipated. The ending more glorious and joyful than ever imagined.

TRIgirl 40 = Ironaman.

Ironman Florida - Race Report Part 3

The bike to run transition was a much calmer experience than T1. Less racers - and I had my own personal, wonderful volunteer - TRIgirl KO. She gave me a hug and asked how the race was going. Then she proceeded to help me go through my bag - and in a reassuring, relaxed demeanor, asked me "What do you need?" In my somewhat delirious state, I told her I needed to see everything I had packed, to remember what I'd planned for the run! I changed my socks and put on running shorts. Loaded up my fuel belt and hooked in my inhaler. Visor, sunglasses, sneakers. One last photo taken by TRIgirl KO - another hug. And it was time to run.


I was stopped by another volunteer who told me to turn around my race belt so that the number faced forward. Which involved taking off my fuel belt, twisting things around, slinging back on the fuel belt. And then it was really time to start the run.

I looked down at my watch - I was 8:25 into the race - a bigger cushion than I'd ever hoped for to get through my first marathon distance.

The long brick weekends prepared me for what to expect. My legs felt a little swollen and tired, but not much different than when I started the BB&T trail run.

The sun was shining strongly for 2/3 of the first loop. Feeling the heat, I was looking forward to nightfall. I stuck with my plan to walk the aid stations, alternating Gu, endurolytes, water, gatorade, cola, etc. After a few miles, I ran into TRIgirls KB and SK who were nearing the end of their first loop - they were having an amazing race, but still took the time to stop, give hugs and share race updates.

Looking down at my watch during the first 6 miles, I'd occasionally see paces under 10 minutes per mile. Which I knew was too fast - and an important reminder to slow down. Garmin died out at about 9:30 into the race. The first half loop went by pretty quickly. My legs had adjusted to running mode. Then I saw TRIgirl CD, who looked steady and strong. After running the turn around through the park, the inspiration board lit up with a "Go TRIgirl 40" message.

The rest of the first loop continued. The sun began to set, casting a pretty glow on all the racers. There were runners whizzing by, probably on their way to finishing the race. There were also many walkers. Coach G and TRIgirl SL ran by me with encouraging words. They are such amazing runners - and were out of my line of vision within minutes. I saw TRIgirls LD, CH and DL - though I must have missed TRIgirl AM - which had me worried a bit. Around mile 9 or 10 I saw my husband, parents, brother, sister-in-law, Coach M and Ironman RE. Seeing them was such an energy and mood booster! I felt so fortunate - and grateful - to have them there.

Toward the end of the first loop, I saw TRIgirl sherpa KB with a big smile on her face, which made me smile. Then I was at the special needs station, grabbing my long sleeve shirt to add to the collection of race items gathered around my waist, while ditching my visor and sunglasses. Dusk was settling in. A volunteer handed me a glowstick, which I tossed over my neck, then headed out to start loop two. Ran into TRIgirl KB again for a hug and photo.




The course was more familiar the second time around. The curved streets decorated with inspirational posters. The spectators and locals lined up through the more populated sections, some dressed in costumes, some partying hard, some with megaphones calling out funny commentaries and messages.

And then, my family again! This time I stopped and gave them each a big hug - until my husband reminded me to get going! But not before hearing how Coach S was giving kisses to babies as he rocked through his Ironman.

A mile or two after the high of seeing my family, my stomach started to feel a little off. Sloshy. I tired to push through the discomfort , but it was getting worse. Cramps. Feeling sluggish. I remembered the advice of the coaches and Ironwoman Canada - take care of things as they come up. So, I made a deal with myself to walk a mile, drink much less, use the bathrooms (which were really becoming disgusting) - and check in again after the next aid station. Cautiously, I walked, waiting for the little tantrum in my tummy to subside. I felt better after the next aid station - and began running again - very slowly - and still limiting my fluid intake.

After hitting the turn-around point on the second loop, things were looking up. I was using the bathrooms quite often, but my stomach seemed much more stable. Around this time, I had a discussion with myself.

You know, you can go back to walking - it would be much easier.

I'm OK - everything is feeling better.

You're ahead of where you thought you'd be at this point - so why not walk?

Nah, I'm hanging in there.

Really, it would be fine to walk for awhile.

Geez, I'm doing an Ironman! For goodness sakes, I am going to run for as long as I can!


And with that decision, a gradual, steady stream of adrenaline began to hit me.

Since the beginning of the run I'd been alternating places with a few girls in Warner Brothers jerseys. I ran by them and told them it was great playing leap frog with them. They told me they'd be passing by again soon.

But they never did.

For each of the last six miles, I felt stronger and stronger. The aid station walks were getting shorter. My pace seemed to be picking up.

I saw several TRIgirl teammates at various points. I was relieved to see TRIgirl AM during this loop, hanging with TRIgirl LD. TRigirl CH ran over to me - with a big kiss - saying she'd see me before midnight. Which made me tear-up. TRIgirl DL, who was about to have the best negative split out of all of us for her second loop.

Passing the mile 23 sign, I started to feel better than I had the entire run. A few folks cheered when another woman and I were running by "We've got some girls still running!" Soon there was just a 5K left...

After a few turns, I was on the main road back to Ironman Village. There was Alvin's Island (of course it was dark - unlike this photo!).


And I remembered Ironwoman Canada saying - "You'll know you're almost home when you see Alvin's."

For a crazy second, I wished there were a few more miles.

My first Ironman was drawing to a close...

Ironman Florida - Race Report Part 2

Leaving the tent after T1 with sunscreen streaks still glistening down my arms and Patriot Sangria patiently waiting in her primo spot, I heard one volunteer call out my number - "2-3-8-0," and had practically reached my bike when I saw another volunteer frantically running over to her. Triathlon volunteers are generally pretty cool, but those who donate their time to Ironman are unbelievable. So, I just stopped in my tracks and waited while the volunteer unhooked Patriot Sangria from the bike rack and happily trotted her over to me. I gave the volunteer a big thanks, then checked Patriot Sangria's tires - which seemed primed and ready to go. I gave Patriot a grateful pat on the seat and rolled her over to the mount line.

I clicked in easily and we headed off on our 112 miles through Panama City.

I remembered the first 10ish miles from the practice ride TRIgirl DL and I completed earlier in the week. While the wind tunnels still existed through a stretch that passed several mega tall hotels, overall, the wind was calmer than any day we'd been there.

We soon hit the turn-off to major roads outside the touristy area and the scenery grew more quiet. I'd envisioned palm tree lined streets, which never materialized.

At mile 12, Patriot and I hit the "most difficult" part of the course. An overpass bridge with a noticeable, but not terribly hard hill. I overheard a few of the racers commenting "I thought Florida was supposed to be flat." I am no hill lover, nor am I very good at them, but I passed a few folks struggling. The downhill after the crest was fun. Since it wasn't that steep - I could deal with just letting Patriot gather up some speed as she cruised me toward the bottom.

Onward we forged. I was feeling really good and kept Patriot in an easier gear than normal, still noticing decent paces between 18 and 20 miles per hour. While I knew I was still pretty far back in the pack, it felt good to see riders with fancy wheels. I was even playing a little leapfrog with a bunch of guys in aero helmets and suppressed a smidgen of pride. Every 20 minutes I was eating half a Luna Bar. Every hour I was grabbing an endurolyte. In between, I was drinking plenty of my Carbo-pro/Accelerade/Gatorade mixture. As a matter of fact, I was drinking so much, I ran out of fluids at mile 30 and made my first stop.

Many riders whizzed by me during this stop - and the others that would come. But I didn't really care. I felt safe stopping. I was able to carefully replenish my fluids and replace my water bottles. With an added bonus of a chance to stretch my legs.

I never caught up with all who passed me, but I did actually re-pass a decent number of others. While I thought it would be nice to maybe, someday, be able to do the drive through "grab and go," I was comfortable with my conservative approach for this first Ironman.

As I said, I was knocking back plenty of fluids - and around mile 35 - Mother Nature began calling. I decided to hold off while passing the mile 40 aid station - to wait until the special needs stop. The idea of peeing on my bike crossed my mind, but as I looked down on Patriot - and one of my water bottles below - I couldn't bring myself to cross that line.

Eating on the bike started to get harder. I was gagging on my Luna Bars, but was still able to get them down.

After awhile, like a mirage, the special needs station was in sight. I passed a bunch of signs looking for my row. Way far down the line, I found my bag - with a reward bite size Snickers waiting for me. Switching out my water bottles and other nutrition, I moved onto the porto potty.

"Ugh," I thought, "look at the line." Over ten riders were ahead of me to use one of the two porto potties. I resigned myself to a little "gotta go" leg shuffling, but used the opportunity to eat and drink a little more. A woman on line about two people ahead of me had an unusual yellow wrapper open across her bike seat. I then overheard her talking about the cheeseburgers she had packed.

Yes, that is right, cheeseburgers.

They are like "rocket fuel" she said.

I was salivating. They smelled and looked so good. And I never did see her again on the course, so who knows, maybe they truly were rocket fuel.

Finally, it was my turn to use the porto potty. My bladder was very happy as we headed off for the next 62 miles.

Little challenges began creeping up. The gagging worsened when trying to eat a Luna Bar every 20 minutes. After one attempt that left me swallowing some regurgitation, I switched to Sharkies and just drinking lots of calories. The straw flew off one compartment of my podiumquest, making drinking more difficult and requiring more stops to refill. Which I ended up needing anyway as I kept having to pee.

I was still cruising along pretty well. Probably until mile 75-80, which is usually the point I begin to break down. The point where my shoulders get uncomfortably sore and my butt starts complaining. Around this time, the IMFL course took us over a lovely road, with big ole cracks every 10-15 yards. Ba boom, ba boom, ba boom. Not fun. Stressful, too, thinking about potential flats. Part of this lousy road looped - and I caught Coach G at one point, smiling and having a great ride.

Finally, we were off the highway from hell and heading back toward the "major hill bridge." I have to admit, I felt the hill a little more on our way back in.

But, after the bridge, it was just 11 miles till T2. I started feeling good again when hitting the wind tunnel stretch. This time I appreciated the smooth road surface and the views of the breathtaking Gulf.

Heading back into town, I caught sight of lots of pink jumping up and down. TRIgirl cheerleaders KB, KD and KG were ringing cowbells and screaming loudly. Seeing them - and especially TRIgirl KB in her pink boa - was just the recharge I needed to sail through the last miles with a big smile on my face.

Pulling into the Ironman Village area, I heard my name screamed out - my husband, mom, dad, brother and sister-in-law were right there. I teared up a little. I was so daggone happy.

The bike was over. 6 hours and 42 minutes to ride 112 miles.

Going into T2, I was feeling pretty psyched...

Ironman Florida - Race Report Part 1

I'm stealing the multi post idea from other bloggers for the IMFL race report. It'll give me the chance to think through and remember each part of the race.

And I guess I'll just start with the details - and save the best stuff for last.

I went to bed around 9:00 on Ironman Eve - and even had a few hours of broken-up sleep. Around 2:00, I was pretty much awake for the day, though I stayed in bed. During those early morning hours, there were a few moments of anxiety. I tried to distract myself - to keep my mind as blank as possible - and it kind of worked. The worst of the nerves had passed when 4:00 came around.

Coach B and TRIgirl TB were already up and eating breakfast. I prepared my bagel, banana and carbo pro water. With a chaser of Immodium. The hubby woke up early to begin his day as my rock star sherpa.

Coach B needed to get to the transition area early, so we were out the door with our wetsuits and special needs bags by 4:45. Even though we arrived with plenty of time before the race started, we kept busy pumping tires, filling water bottles and putting last minute items in transition bags. TRIgirls SS and KO were not only super sherpas, but had volunteered, too, starting their day early with body marking. TRIgirl SS wrote my number - and added a smiley face to my age. TRIgirl KO had a thoughtful gift for each racer - an Iron Girl visor!

The hubby had left to get my parents, brother and sister-in-law. I was so happy and reassured to see my sherpa family before the race. TRIgirl DL and I headed off for one last bathroom stop and discovered everyone else had the same idea. By the time we finished, TRIgirl TB told us we better get our wetsuits on immediately and head down to the beach. TRIgirl SL's sherpa did a great job of helping pull our wetsuits on in record breaking time.



We followed the masses down to the beach and met up with TRIgirls AM and CH. A few tears were shed, but mine were due to actually finally being at this place, this moment, that was a year in the making. Coach S came bounding over to us, full of such excitement and energy, it made me smile. He led us in a TRIgirl cheer and the next thing I knew, the cannon sounded and we were on our way into the water.







On the beach, you really couldn't get the full impact of what 2200 racers looked like, as you only could focus on the people in front of you. We hit the Gulf. Gorgeous, crystal clear water that was calmer than any of our practice swims. All my worries about the mass start were gone, as the whole situation, bodies piling on top of other bodies, suddenly seemed humorous. I was already relaxed and loved every moment of the swim. (Thank you Coach S and Ironwoman Canada!) I even tried to hold my own when other swimmers were barreling over into my space. (I don't understand why some people are clueless that they are slamming someone in the head - especially in such clear water, but there were definitely some folks out there completely oblivious.) Most of the swimmers I was with were pretty polite, though.




The swim felt so good that I almost thought they shortened the course. My first loop took 38 minutes - a great time for me. A few sips of water - then it was back for the second loop (though I stopped for a pee break that just went on and on and on). The second loop was as wonderful as the first. The swim finish was in sight before I knew it and I was already wishing I could do the swim again instead of the run. Swim time - 1:22.

Exiting the water, I saw my husband and family - they were cheering loudly and I was thrilled to be able to catch them before walking through the showers.




I'd heard about the amazing powers of the wetsuit strippers. They had me on my butt pulling my wetsuit off within minutes. This, too, made me laugh. I walked a little, jogged a little to pick up my bike bag and entered the changing tent. It was packed - but the first thing I noticed was TRIgirl CD, finishing up her transition. Then I saw TRIgirl SK. Then Coach G, pumping away in the corner (did I mention that this incredible women gave birth like 3 months ago?). A few hugs and encouraging words later, I was in the corner putting on my cute new TRIgirl bike shirt. All the volunteers were busy, so I carefully went through my bag and thought about each item and what I was supposed to do with it. My transition time was pretty sad - 12 minutes. But I was relaxed and prepared. I was excited about the bike. I was having fun.

My race had started off beautifully.

TRIgirl 40 = Ironman

At 9:08 this evening. (14:08:13 total time)

As well as all the rest of the TRIgirls, too.

Full race report coming later.

But now, I am hoping to go to bed and sleep for 14 hours.

Thanks to all for the wonderful wishes these past few days!

Ironman Eve

And so, Ironman Eve is upon us.

• One last swim completed in the Gulf.
• Packed transition bags.
• Enough nutrition prepared for two racers.
• Patriot Sangria tucked away in Ironman Village.
• Family and friends (aka TRIgirl Support Crew and Super Sherpas) all safely arrived.
• A belly full of the day's good calories and lots of hydration.

In a few minutes, I'll be heading off to bed. To try to sleep.

I am feeling fairly calm - though I think I still can't quite comprehend what tomorrow will bring.

• The exhilaration.
• The challenge.
• The tough moments.
• The cheers and support.
• The pain.
• The camaraderie.
• The rising above obstacles.
• The tears.
• The joy.

It is all our there waiting for us - ours for the taking.

Sleep well my sweet TRIgirl IMFL racers.

IMFL - Pre-race Happenings...

So many great stories so far - not sure how I can write about them all and do them justice.

Tuesday, I drove down with Coach B and TRIgirl TB - caravaning with Guppies JW and SW. I planted myself in the back seat and had some of the best sleep I've had in awhile. Woke up to a very hot car at one point as TRIgirl TB and Guppy SW were watching the miles countdown before we ran out of gas. We made it to a gas station with less than 1 mile left!

We crashed Tuesday night at the Chateau Guppy, TRIgirl TB and I sharing the bunk beds. The next morning, we woke up to a fairly quiet looking Gulf and headed off for an open water swim. The water was a bit cooler than I thought it would be. Not too salty. So clear - you could see the little sea urchins in the ocean floor until the second buoy. Out in the deeper sections, the water darkened, with beautiful plankton snow - but still clear enough to see the swimmers around you. I exited the my first swim in Panama City feeling relieved and a little bit excited.

Then it was on to IMFL registration. Excitement was in the air. Coach B. told me about the ins and outs as I waited on line, got weighed, signed my life away, and left Ironman Village with my first Ironman logo item.

After a short run, it was time to help TRIgirl TB with preparations for dinner - and Coach B's birthday. An evening full of TRIgirls wearing pumpkin costumes and cowboy hats.

Wednesday morning, the TRIgirls woke up early for a practice swim at 7:00 - the same time IMFL should start on Saturday.

TRIgirl TB braved her fears for her first open water AND wetsuit swim. She was terrific and is already a natural in the Gulf. I think I need to find out what she is doing on November 3rd.

TRIgirl DL and I took a very easy and slow bike ride around Panama City - which can be quite blustery - especially with the wind tunnels created between hotels. Then it was onto a fun evening with her family for dinner and to meet up with the rest of the TRIgirls. Coach G gave an incredible inspiring speech to remind us of what we've accomplished this past year - even before even hearing the start gun. Supposedly the hard work is done.

Other than one long day coming up Saturday.

.

We are HERE!

And we'll all float on alright!

(Promise to try to post more details and photos tomorrow. Things are going well, so far. And a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Coach B!)