tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-371966552024-03-07T02:01:42.089-05:00Journey to Ironman (and Beyond)Started to document my 12 month journey to Ironman Florida in 2007. Now I'm hooked - on blogging and Ironman!TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.comBlogger303125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-7287342664849971162010-07-26T17:56:00.008-04:002010-07-26T18:15:12.986-04:00Hawai'iI'm just <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">sayin</span>'...<br /><br />I want to pick up my family, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">furkids</span> and friends and head right back on a plane to the Big Island tomorrow.<br /><br />More details to come - but here is a funny series of pics Mrs. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Barracuda</span> and I posed for in front of paintings in the official <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">IM</span> hotel.<br /><br /><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498337990875074786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZY3iSPc1hBt41FYzY29qEMBMoh9O1-EzZQO2ShHgW0x7OZRvk44qGLDNUzoPDIL_xEhvtU713vv3IzW4Yzz3KifTP5D65XBQgnwCgJQXiVs7iNZN4dZk046AMHcqad6w8cEY/s400/IMG_0886.jpg" /> <em>No wonder <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ironwoman</span> Canada keeps telling me not to rotate.</em><br /><br /><em></em><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498337998692201986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqUUtJxH3254xvUm6pQsboKxyXSWTqzJQPQ0EzoHKpAWPLce4lecXX68NV7NI8Yp2SbkiJSbF7ZR-_ZVCOmdw7-1FqvTeTYo1RzOuco_QR4-OusD5sSuV1KO9e0lEs7nPjC_L/s400/IMG_0887.jpg" /> <em>I probably should be drafting in this pose, too - since <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kokau</span> and I did for a good chunk of the our ride on the Queen K.</em> </p><p><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498339652501084466" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1JqoUPbeBDintTLXm0XNUyi6bgKMAduwKHLmavS4lNYsqR5r6EgX-3obCYV_yHoBrCTEqFdKAYcYHfulAMwQdgRt68VO10jYOhQD7KSdF7uFCmdA3tSCOsMNKCNa3dObB-0N/s400/IMG_0888.jpg" /><em>Ironically, I had a few good runs down <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ali'i</span> drive - just another reason to relocate!</em></p><p><em></em></p><p></p><p></p>TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-67823818548907690522010-07-13T18:55:00.012-04:002010-07-13T20:57:03.426-04:00Kokau is Waiting in KonaSome of you may have heard (if you've been around me for more than five minutes in the past few months) ...<br /><br />I AM LEAVING ON SATURDAY FOR HAWAII!<br /><br />As I posted on Facebook yesterday, this will be my first week long, non-work (well, minimal) and non-race (well, some training) destination vacation in a very long time (since honeymooning in Bermuda many, many years ago?).<br /><br />I am incredibly excited about this trip for lots of reasons.<br /><ul><li>like watching the wedding re-enactment of the Sponsored Athlete and the Should be Sponsored Wife </li><li>or staying at the luxurious compound Mrs. Barracuda discovered</li><li>not to mention the amazing itinerary including zip lining, hikes, luaus, snuba...and....</li><li>and...and...BIKING parts of the Kona course!</li></ul><br />Today, for less than the cost of taking my bike (Patriot Sangria is sulking in the corner) to the Big Island, I rented Kokua, a Cannondale Six ultra road bike. In just a few days, Kokua and I will be joining the Sponsored Couple and the Barracudas on tours through Kona, including sections of the IM World Championship bike route.<br /><br />[Big smile].TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-16180467509058372972010-07-10T18:02:00.007-04:002010-07-13T21:00:32.572-04:00Like Buttah (or Bathwater)After close to 50 emails back and forth trying to plan a long workout day that included an open water swim, a group of us headed up to Lake Anna this morning. Not even the rain or threat of storms was going to stop us, since we even had a boat to watch over us, courtesy of Sweet Tea <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Skirtboy</span>.<br /><br />At the State Park we assessed whether or not we would need to deploy our back-up covert mission, as open water swimming supposedly requires a permit that takes 30 days to acquire. The rain worked in our favor. With no one around, we headed out for a 45 minute out and back right from the beach.<br /><br />The water was beautiful. No wetsuit needed as temps were probably in the upper 80s. A little too hot for some folks' liking, but just about perfect in my opinion. We broke into a few groups, with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Mathelete</span> doing backstroke (faster than my freestyle) to keep an eye on his new bride, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Matheleta (or Mave)</span>. Swim <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sandbagger</span> set a strong pace with little stopping.<br /><br />It was a great swim - with the added bonus of getting to draft off Pink Feet almost the entire way back.<br /><br />Most of us bagged the bike due to the weather except <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Mathelete</span> and Pink Feet, but the swim was still worth the early morning start and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">hourish</span> ride.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-85766964079264355942010-07-08T21:15:00.005-04:002010-07-08T21:59:54.834-04:00I Want to Ride My Bicycle, I Want to Ride My Bike (BUT)Alas, Patriot Sangria and I are bummed. We missed tonight's bike with TC, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">SuperAnnn</span> and the Three Sisters Expert (that is you, RB, if you still read blogs) because a work meeting ran long. Hope my fellow bicycle heathens (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">oooh</span>, you should see <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">JenBo's</span> ideas for our hearty, mighty logo) enjoyed an excellent ride in this Hades heat.<br /><br />I have not been on my bike in two whole days. I would say that my legs had recovered from last weekend's <a href="http://trigirl40.blogspot.com/2010/07/tour-d-central-virginia.html">Tour de Central Virginia</a>.<br /><br />I would say that...IF...<br /><br />I had not spent this morning trying to complete Pink Feet's squat/lunge intensive workout.<br /><br />(You know it is a bad sign when your legs feel queasy during the exercises.)<br /><br />Pink Feet believes his killer moves will help with my hill climbing - this enticement had me trying my best to overcome my lack of coordination and strength.<br /><br />Silver lining, I may be able to guilt him into waiting for me after stretches of this weekend's upcoming bike trek on the hilly Lake Anna Kinetic course.<br /><br />Or paint his feet pink for our covert open water swim mission.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-78045431468857611402010-07-05T12:51:00.010-04:002010-07-08T22:21:07.160-04:00Tour de Central VirginiaIn the past 105ish hours, I've put in approximately 175 miles on the bike and rode through parts of at least six counties. During my own little Tour de Central Virginia, I've learned a few things:<br /><ol><li><em>I have no sense of direction and should never, ever lead.</em> In three out of the four rides, I made a wrong turn. Thursday night, I took the Traffic Connoisseur on a great tour of the Carmax parking lot (which dead ends, by the way). Then, at Pink Feet's Saturday's pancake bike through the 'ville, I ended up riding two hours by myself after getting dropped by the lead group and losing my cue sheet (still had an awesome ride - and am very grateful for the Droid Map's application). During yesterday's ride with SuperAnnn, I heard "next left" instead of "this left" after passing our right turn to finish our Goochland loop. </li><li><em>I may have an issue with cocky stranger bike dudes.</em> Lots of men pass me during bike rides. Most are polite and wave or say "hi." But those that ride by without even a nod kind of annoy me. Sometimes I have to jump on their wheels for a stretch.</li><li><em>The IM base is starting to come back - at least for the bike.</em> With three months before MightyMan and four months before Beach to Battleship, I'm logging in some miles. While Ironwoman Canada's double (and this week, triple) long bike days have been challenging, they are building up saddle calluses, neck muscles - and even my gushy quads. I only wish I had been smart enough to schedule a massage for this week.</li><li><em>My tri/bike friends rock. Totally. </em>Over these last few days, I've spent large chunks of time with amazing folks. I've looked forward to each ride because of their smiles, generosity, encouragement, joy, passion, talent and friendship. </li></ol>TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-28947370461717430162010-06-30T20:40:00.005-04:002010-06-30T20:58:20.420-04:00LogisticsThe past few days have been a whirlwind of logistics.<br /><br />Reservations for sweet accommodations for MightyMan (great little condo - with my awesome sherpa parents in a neighboring unit to cheer TC and me on), Beach to Battleship (the totally cute, "shabby chic" Sand Crab Cottage makes me smile) and IMCDA (just want to live on the beach or in the wine cellar of the Copper Top Lake Lodge) are mostly complete.<br /><br />At one point, I even signed over a check written to me (for B2B) to Killa-K (for IMCDA).<br /><br />The next paycheck will be tight - but the worst is over for the next 362 days.<br /><br />BTW - Test run today went well, I think. Should be a good sign for tomorrow's doctor's appointment and next steps. Right achillies felt pretty darn good. Funny thing - the left one was a little grumpy walking, but not running.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-49844641727428546212010-06-29T18:48:00.004-04:002010-06-29T22:20:08.584-04:00It's All RelativeI was watching a few <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ironman</span> clips online today about <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">CDA. </span>In this year's "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">pre</span>-race" show several competitors were interviewed about the bike course.<br /><br />"It is probably one of the flatter <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ironmans</span> I have done," says one male age grouper. (I'm hoping he did Placid and Canada.)<br /><br />"It is one of the more challenging bike courses out there," says a female age grouper a few minutes later. Then she goes on to explain how she likes a challenging bike. (I am hoping she did Florida and Cozumel.)<br /><br />Think I'll be going with the "prepare for worst, hope for the best" training approach for this one.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-86533699234293409662010-06-28T21:58:00.002-04:002010-06-28T22:09:52.441-04:00DB is hoping potatoes are good carb loaders - IMCDA 2011!Oh wait, this isn't <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Facebook</span>?<br /><br />I am a bit giddy about this post and hope to get a few "likes." :)<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">IMCDA</span> has always tempted me - and when gossip started circulating, then snowballing, about a bunch of my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">fav</span> Richmond folks hopping on a train to Idaho, it became hard to resist.<br /><br />There were a few obstacles - like a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">histoically</span> crazy work schedule during peak training times for this early July race. And affordable accommodation options (much thanks to my bunking mate - we may be sleeping in an amazing wine cellar). But my boss, friends and training peeps graciously helped me work it out.<br /><br />And now I am dreaming of bike rides on sunny, dry days with scrumptious potatoes in my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">bento</span> box...TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-66928496424688383722010-06-25T20:08:00.003-04:002010-06-25T20:19:13.163-04:00My Wonderful Achillies HeelMaybe another post will share the more gory (not really) details...<br /><br />But I am <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">guiltily</span> loving my a<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">chilles</span> heel injury. No running for two weeks. Probably no speed or hill workouts for another month or so after. <br /><br />Shucks. <br /><br />You mean, I can't run when the temperatures in Richmond have averaged in the upper 90s and low 100s for the past few weeks?<br /><br />You mean, I can hop on the elliptical trainer instead - in air conditioning?<br /><br />You mean, I'll have to bike - on both Saturday and Sunday?<br /><br />Darn!<br /><br />While part of me knows this will be another set back in my struggles with running, I am jumping up and down with the silver lining.<br /><br />Like waking up on both days of the weekend looking forward to the workout ahead.<br /><br />Patriot Sangria doesn't seem to mind either.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-46530721048317359002010-06-14T20:50:00.002-04:002010-06-14T21:16:16.335-04:00Sending Up a White FlagGuilt, guilt, guilt, guilt.<br /><br />OK. I am sending up the white flag.<br /><br />Giving up on things I feel I am supposed to write about vs. those that inspire or interest me.<br /><br />For example, I haven't posted - in like forever - because I felt obligated to write about the Kinetic race.<br /><br />Which went fine - I could sum up like this -<br /><br />Amazingly lucky, fast swim - probably due to the course being off and/or a favorable current. Strong first bike loop.<br />Nearly knocked off my bike when the winds picked up to 24 miles per hour for the second.<br />Survived the run and made it as fun as a run could be given low training mileage due to health and stress issues the months before the race.<br /><br />Not a PR - but a respectable time - right around what I expected. <br /><br />Just not inspiring. The event really was more a training workout - with my A races planned for the fall. <br /><br />But, I have since had some wonderful workouts. Aha moment swims and fabulous bike rides. Challenging training camp days that solidified a strong swim and bike base. Mighty fall race registrations (and beach battles) with some of my favorite peeps.<br /><br />We'll hold off on any run updates for the moment.<br /><br />So, if anyone is still even checking in - I hope you won't mind -if I just try to go with the flow for awhile.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-57147577334791089652010-04-29T18:27:00.011-04:002010-04-30T00:11:50.748-04:00Race Report - Rumpus in BumpassGeez, I am so out of the loop with blogging. I remember finishing races, thinking about the highlights or blunders I'd post about.<br /><br />But yes, I did race - and yes, I had a rumpusing time.<br /><br />Race eve kicked off with a trip to Bumpass for packet pick-up with MollyMary. It was hot and windy - and Lake Anna looked more choppy than I'd ever seen it. We did one easy loop of the bike course and a transition run (which I complained about the entire time). Then, I jumped in the chilly water for a quick swim to test my new wetsuit and to try to remember what open water swimming felt like.<br /><br />Back at home, the Traffic Connoisseur and Rainbow kindly stopped by to share a nutritious and delicious pre-race dinner (TC's yummy Roman Pasta). Rainbow made a wonderful salad - and TC brought the wine. We had a lovely meal, sitting outside, until poor Rainbow's allergies flared up.<br /><br />Can I tell you how much I love a 10:00 race start? I slept well and woke up around 7:00 to enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading back up to Lake Anna.<br /><br />Upon arrival, the water was still looking rough. I ran into MollyMary, MaryMolly and the Barracudas - who were also racing. Soon after, SuperAnnn and JenBo arrived. Their Super Sherpa duties started with magic candy to supplement my bento box and bottles filled with warm water to take the chill off the swim start.<br /><br />I was very relaxed - and given my last few weeks of training - my goal was to have fun - and maybe push the bike.<br /><br />With the horn sending my wave off, the race started. The choppiness was annoying. It seemed to take a long time to reach the first buoy. Things eased up after the first turn - and I felt like I was sighting well (unusual for me) and getting into a swimming grove. Given that my pool times have been improving and hearing the hoots and hollers coming from SuperAnnn and JenBo - I figured I must have had a great swim.<br /><br />Until I got out of the water and saw my time - close to 35 minutes. Probably my worst Olympic distance time other than my first attempt at Naylor's! Really couldn't do anything besides chuckle.<br /><br />Off on the bike, I circled the two loop course. Though windy in stretches, I still felt good (and checking in with my bike computer reassured me that I was actually having a solid ride). My Super Sherpas encouraged me with their huge cheers on both loops. Close to my best bike - I came in right around 1:15.<br /><br />As always, I'd love to end my race (and blog post) here, but there's that dang run.<br /><br />The day had heated up, but it was still nice run weather - the strong wind finally providing some relief. The rolling two loop course was what I remembered, with each of the out and back stretches on the main road (done twice) seeming way longer than 2.6 miles.<br /><br />I stuck to my plan of having fun - meaning I didn't worry about my slow pace or walking a few hills. And 1:04 later, feeling better during that last 1/4 mile than I did for the entire run, I crossed the finish line - 14 seconds shy of a PR and just under 3 hours total.<br /><br />And I'll take that.<br /><br />SuperAnnn and JenBo had special surprises at the finish - a birthday tiara, cupcake and champagne. I can't thank them enough for all their kindness and support. Much thanks to Super Annn and her tri photographer Dad for my favorite race montage:<br /><br /><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465775866139554578" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUNIX0FawuzskfN7E5huzy63nAmVLHsq70s9pClBaW-j-Mz_7uab0Y7uPDG9j3Ais9Dg0SNuHEBcVfGDI3KWIJeijoNHlFKCGXloxq54WxPelkvnDuTRHhpEz1u-SN9GKAmFuy/s400/BOEHM_DEANNA_RB10.jpg" /><br />Post race, we spent a few hours relaxing in the fading sun on JenBo's beach. Then I headed back home to meet up with the Barracudas for an evening full of great wine, food and conservation.<br /><br />All in all - a wonderful day, full of amazing friends, a fun race...</p><p>and the bestest birthday! </p>TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-84241350347309976462010-04-15T23:06:00.007-04:002010-04-15T23:48:51.439-04:00RumpusingAs Rumpus Eve approaches, I find myself feeling incredibly lucky and grateful.<br /><br />Healthwise, I am better. A co-worker mentioned to me today that she hadn't noticed me hacking up a lung the past day or so.<br /><br />Ironwoman Canada called me about a few race details - and shared her confidence in my readiness - reaffirming my thoughts for a realistic bike and run, especially given the past few months.<br /><br />Finally, the outpouring of kindness from my friends and family for thoughtful pre, during and post race activities, has reinforced my 2010 goal - of balancing work and fun - this race/birthday weekend.<br /><br />You guys (and I hope you know who you are) totally rock!TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-73032645999262873512010-04-11T14:16:00.004-04:002010-04-11T14:46:52.415-04:00Two MonthsYikes, it has been almost two months since my last blog post. Even my Dad, one of the most laid back people in the world, gave me a gentle nudge while visiting last week for Easter.<br /><br />Since the Virginia is for Lovers 14K, workouts have picked up a bit. It hasn't been a great start to the season. My family lost a close relative a few weeks ago, shifting priorities during two visits to New York in ten days. I have also caught one stupid bug after the other. Bronchitis, serious sinus infection, stomach virus - and yesterday, after finishing a tour of the upcoming Kinetic Half course with a fellow Guppy, the sinus and chest congestion flared up with a new symptom, losing my voice. <br /><br />While none of these ailments have been that awful, they certainly have been draining and annoying. I haven't been this consecutively sick in a long time - probably since my first year of teaching in 1990. All the nose wiping, diaper changing and general little kid exposure tested my immune system to the limit. The silver lining was a super strong resistance that lasted quite awhile. It seems this natural vaccine was good for twenty years.<br /><br />So, I've missed workouts here and there. And recovery days have been more about trying to knock these germs out of my system than rebuilding <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">muscle</span> and resting. <br /><br />My first triathlon race of the year, Rumpus in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Bumpass</span> Olympic, is next week. On my birthday. This is a fun course and I know I can finish - and as long as my health stays where it is or gets better, I should have a reasonable race. Probably not a PR, but within range.<br /><br />The May Kinetic Half worries me a bit more. But I have a few more weeks before taper, so we'll see how things go.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-69518766497483154562010-02-14T21:31:00.021-05:002010-02-15T15:44:19.128-05:00The Year of Fun Races Kick-OffLast fall, the Traffic Connoisseur invited a few friends to race the Virginia is for Lovers 14K in memory of a good family friend, John Kainer, the namesake for her son.<br /><br />And if you know the Traffic Connoisseur and her friends - you would have also immediately signed up for this race - it was bound to be great fun - in addition to being for a good cause.<br /><br />So while unprecedented snowy weather interfered with many outdoor runs since Christmas, making the 14K my longest run since Placid, I was still looking forward to kicking off Valentine's weekend on Friday by getting together with the girls for some pre-race festivities. Several friends had driven down to the beach a little earlier, but the Traffic Connoisseur and I soon caught up with them at Abbey Road Pub, where I must say, some impressive carbo loading was underway.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 394px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438573505624435506" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIadIxEWfw647Fd2-vaTCsOAHcFU8HClrTf7ashSD_yoBxs4byNHIJsNTpFOOZcaN8P8JiOpf2G0kta1fBth9r5FLcSEAj14i-cwuDDX7SCRo7kQS4El2RbabApOlfXY0U8eUZ/s400/21978_300748489447_676904447_3214957_5579578_n.jpg" /><br />Yep, this was my kind of run.<br /><br />So we chowed down on some evil greasy pub fare, before heading to the hotel - SuperAnnn had found an amazing deal at an Oceanfront Marriot. The party continued at our suite, where we found that SuperAnnn had supplemented our race packets with cupid wings, halos, crowns, boas and heart tattoos - which we tried on instead of preparing our gear. We watched the Olympic Opening Ceremonies as the Traffic Connoisseur and Pink's #1 Brunette Fan kept filling our glasses. The rumor of the race being cancelled due to snow wasn't sounding too bad.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 299px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438573506808521474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBAXazm_d_nYVX9_2ktfu-mu81IeMTWa8DRg6z5IHuxfqsxWEiFKepDd8d8I-MdzoznBtWKTJOMoNPb1rrTG4oIeD8EIpy3HS3LqjpLpK_FBJAQzXO9DHyb4lY2NSvfYqJe3D/s400/21078_300786954447_676904447_3215071_5588144_n.jpg" /><br />The next morning, we woke up to something that looked like a PG scene from "The Hangover." We also found that JenBo was hit hard with a horrible stomach flu or food poisoning. As we somewhat reluctantly started to accept that the race would go on as scheduled since there were just a few flurries swirling around, we heard that Pink's #1 Blond Fan was also suffering from major stomach issues.<br /><br />Those of us lucky enough to escape illness, quietly tucked in the patients, then snuck out to grab a quick cup of coffee. At 7:40, we realized we should head out to the 8:00 race. We barely made it in time - the race had kicked off as we were walking to the start line.<br /><br />Patty Who Hits SuperAnnn was somewhere in the crowd, with the sweet son of her long term friend. Since the group had different goals for the race, we were all kind of on our own at the race start.<br /><br />Wearing my cupid wings, crown, boa and heart tattoo, I loved seeing lots of other decorated racers - donning everything from Valentine antennae to boxer shorts. It felt different - but very fun - to be part of the silliness.<br /><br /><div><div><p>After the first few miles, I spotted another set of cupid wings out of the corner of my eye. The Traffic Connoisseur had caught me and kindly ran along with me for the next few miles. Between my huffing and puffing we admired the fun race signs. She ducked out for a bit during one of the loops, but we met up again to check out "Cupcake Curve," grabbing a frozen brownie bite to go. </p><p>The snow started to come down more heavily toward the end of the race - as we followed the route around the amphitheater. The course would have been pretty boring - but the race directors really did an impressive job keeping it interesting. The Traffic Connoisseur was a great pacer and had me moving during the last few miles. The group soon found each other and we shivered congratulatory hugs. We headed over to the beer tent to celebrate - though I gave Patty Who Hits Annn most of my beer. Now if only they served wine post race. </p><p>It seemed to be getting colder and colder - so we decided to forgo the second beer. Thankfully, both our sick friends were starting to feel at least a little bit better. </p><p>Oh, and yeah, this was a race right? I hadn't worn a watch (though I did happen to bring sneakers from two different sets, thankfully for different feet, too), so I didn't know my time until later in the day. Turns out I had a solid race - 9:44 pace - which is my fastest for anything over a 10K. I've never done a 14K before, so we can even call it a PR.</p><p>And more importantly - a super fun start to the 2010 season.</p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p></div></div>TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-14057599893099163832010-01-28T20:29:00.010-05:002010-01-28T21:44:30.995-05:00NaturallyWith the discovery of my 2010 word, "<a href="http://http//trigirl40.blogspot.com/2010/01/true.html">True,"</a> I've also found a little more <em><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">umph</span></em> in my training. My guess is, without the worries of trying to just finish a race like <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">IMUSA, </span>I have gained some breathing room, allowing me to explore my limits.<br /><br />For example, my rather bumpy history with running.<br /><br />This normal childhood milestone seems to have alluded me. I've always been comfortable swimming in the water - no matter how slow. I've jumped crazy waves, barely panicking in riptides. And, in the past few years, I've learned that there is this amazing biking groove - where pedal stroke and power synchronize to meet happiness (as long as it isn't too hilly anyway).<br /><br />But I have very few recollections of feeling "natural" when running. Glimpses of playing tag or other schoolyard games cross my mind, but are quickly replaced with the lumbering, breathless images that dominate my memories.<br /><br />During this off-season - and my year of doing races that bring me joy -I've been revisiting running. In some ways - I am trying to relearn to run.<br /><br />To do this, I've been spending lots of time on the treadmill. I don't really like running on the treadmill, but it has allowed me to set challenging paces while removing the thinking.<br /><br />Yes, I have to "think" when I run, especially if I am trying to run fast (which really isn't very fast at all).<br /><br />For quite a few recent workouts, I've let the treadmill think for me. I've set a pace and concentrated on form and relaxing my body.<br /><br />So far it is working - at least on the treadmill. I've run my fastest 2 miler and 3K - and have come within seconds of my 10K PR.<br /><br />I know that running outside is different, just like bicycling on the trainer doesn't compare to being on the open road.<br /><br />But, I am hoping that my mind is working with my body to create a new imprint - one that will result in a very late bloomer learning to run -<br /><br />...naturally.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-5266209041281001082010-01-15T15:14:00.012-05:002010-01-18T16:22:19.079-05:00It's a Boy!!!!We are thrilled to announce the arrival of Monty (named after Inigo Montoya)!<br /><br />Our newest addition has already brought much joy - he is a sweet, little, soft ball of happiness - and Fezzy is a wonderful, caring, helpful older brother.<br /><br />We've loved watching the last few days unfold - though they have seemed too easy.<br /><br />But another reason why we should all try to be a bit more like our dogs...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WJ_EsGgJ0xpzY2K8prnhymKafJkSZ1tJ2jFvJgoAntY8OG2zl7loS4wkMcZyTflLCBHtcTR43ktDrgj3jxbICo8Eg3hKQXtkWlJRuvX8FvHGMlaEKyIXSNuhZhAz1d-dLKbY/s1600-h/IMG_0663.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428189472227995874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WJ_EsGgJ0xpzY2K8prnhymKafJkSZ1tJ2jFvJgoAntY8OG2zl7loS4wkMcZyTflLCBHtcTR43ktDrgj3jxbICo8Eg3hKQXtkWlJRuvX8FvHGMlaEKyIXSNuhZhAz1d-dLKbY/s400/IMG_0663.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOb-wsYrh01BNDuVssUfMTGRHbD8awSDEH9zqNTurFFlBkIGlDYZktleImhnrKX69P5Brg-RvvTq1Oxt-o5V9__0KzAxo3duOqJph6Tf1qUGJVOr0A5RGbHAe6pd5oZs3EYEo/s1600-h/IMG_0628.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428189464875418706" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOb-wsYrh01BNDuVssUfMTGRHbD8awSDEH9zqNTurFFlBkIGlDYZktleImhnrKX69P5Brg-RvvTq1Oxt-o5V9__0KzAxo3duOqJph6Tf1qUGJVOr0A5RGbHAe6pd5oZs3EYEo/s400/IMG_0628.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Ltj0CH1lUZqu1ZtuhCP1Ty5TMx867yi8okLZzZWrmS7QxiXTVSjyrlQQQxKx_5LEbGjzm2J6gRrdFOCBb8-5NQOnt1f4sbX82He5zcU6KBKpdXHFdgYWHPLydTyynQ8vtAZb/s1600-h/IMG_0643.JPG"></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Ltj0CH1lUZqu1ZtuhCP1Ty5TMx867yi8okLZzZWrmS7QxiXTVSjyrlQQQxKx_5LEbGjzm2J6gRrdFOCBb8-5NQOnt1f4sbX82He5zcU6KBKpdXHFdgYWHPLydTyynQ8vtAZb/s1600-h/IMG_0643.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428189474349799154" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Ltj0CH1lUZqu1ZtuhCP1Ty5TMx867yi8okLZzZWrmS7QxiXTVSjyrlQQQxKx_5LEbGjzm2J6gRrdFOCBb8-5NQOnt1f4sbX82He5zcU6KBKpdXHFdgYWHPLydTyynQ8vtAZb/s400/IMG_0643.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwBovgt1rZa0Yu9CS8tXzJoOIMkfYz6fAcnv1CgJiAcJFGTe6_KSrgN6WuPDK4d3zYY2IcwGr4GNr2gy1nmYIRHrAsI2r9mu0_SfzUEGMMj25Tktnvd848ryW9QElremAqC3ix/s1600-h/IMG_0642.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428189467017490290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwBovgt1rZa0Yu9CS8tXzJoOIMkfYz6fAcnv1CgJiAcJFGTe6_KSrgN6WuPDK4d3zYY2IcwGr4GNr2gy1nmYIRHrAsI2r9mu0_SfzUEGMMj25Tktnvd848ryW9QElremAqC3ix/s400/IMG_0642.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68DjN1IiP5CphJlTXcVa1wVfNInnkjwy7U6FezQQtTMXi8RKvR2GZ7sQyAEr8YCNm42yPFT1a1wH_f_G8B2PjLUBueqZcTDES7zLm-rwDKwlsA5fLkqIsbFEpzc1PmsIs7ckD/s1600-h/IMG_0619.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428189455443728962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68DjN1IiP5CphJlTXcVa1wVfNInnkjwy7U6FezQQtTMXi8RKvR2GZ7sQyAEr8YCNm42yPFT1a1wH_f_G8B2PjLUBueqZcTDES7zLm-rwDKwlsA5fLkqIsbFEpzc1PmsIs7ckD/s400/IMG_0619.JPG" /></a>TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-6760120316415231572010-01-08T22:11:00.008-05:002010-01-10T19:57:49.240-05:00Latest Gear PurchaseBike, wetsuit, sneakers?<br /><br />Guess again.<br /><br />My latest triathlon purchase is (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">drum roll</span> please)...<br /><br />A new car!<br /><br />A 2010 Honda CR-V - glacier blue - that reminds me of pretty winter skies and crystal clear lakes.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtHmqPEglqoAfAlQSrV7UlgFVleazmIQRmddHjqeUvPdd1v6Q5d5jUUwI49HMSzGDB2emqf520u3wonAaYIS3RvlWvTq-3864XvpVQWPjG0cjz6XsfGUGBvWKxDLgxzKIPGkWG/s1600-h/phs-1755_1.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 175px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424576287644790354" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtHmqPEglqoAfAlQSrV7UlgFVleazmIQRmddHjqeUvPdd1v6Q5d5jUUwI49HMSzGDB2emqf520u3wonAaYIS3RvlWvTq-3864XvpVQWPjG0cjz6XsfGUGBvWKxDLgxzKIPGkWG/s400/phs-1755_1.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The (almost) 10 year old, 2 door Honda Accord has been sold to our neighbor's 16 year old daughter. It was a great, reliable car - and served as a pretty locker room these last few seasons.<br /><br />The SUV thing is a big step for me. For years, I would never consider anything other than a sporty coupe. But the CR-V is a small SUV - not a whole lot bigger than the Accord - and gets around the same gas mileage.<br /><br />I love it! I owe many friends rides to destination workouts and races. I intend to pay them back as soon as the hitch and 4 bike rack is installed.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-8121376184619519202010-01-02T22:53:00.021-05:002010-01-03T16:21:54.591-05:00TrueI've been a bit neglectful posting over these past few holiday weeks. Just like my training, my blogging may have needed some down time.<br /><br />The break has been a good thing. It has given me a chance to wonder if even back packers need a reality check. Eight hours of exercise a week is still probably more than the average American. At what point are everyday triathletes sucked into thinking that this level of activity isn't enough?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqmaAj5GcsnyB0hrYnRM6d_GOrXqlj5pKh49X01xI5zWSAZBUWWBsPqm4AAvkdwuoZwjJ4V3Lu412AqgjqVTQ0OxhKdpipGDomjS6HpYcniJnAK3-pShy8oMPoYggASPnnc6C/s1600-h/nags_head_pond.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 214px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 285px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422619611808718018" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqmaAj5GcsnyB0hrYnRM6d_GOrXqlj5pKh49X01xI5zWSAZBUWWBsPqm4AAvkdwuoZwjJ4V3Lu412AqgjqVTQ0OxhKdpipGDomjS6HpYcniJnAK3-pShy8oMPoYggASPnnc6C/s400/nags_head_pond.jpg" /></a>I just spent an amazing Christmas with family and childhood friends - and a fantastic New Year's weekend with more recent favorite buddies. The first day of 2010 included a fun, new adventure planned by Karen's Shawn and Shawn's Karen for Barricuda BL, The Should be Sponsored Wife and me - a trail run to find a letterbox in the beautiful, quiet and remote Nags Head Nature Reserve.<br /><br />And now, while a wicked wind whips through the beach on this cold, but sunny, second day of January, I've had some time to think about the upcoming year. A word to encapsulate my hopes for 2010 has escaped me, but if I could share the objective in a phrase - it would be "Finding my place - being the best I can be doing what I love.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElj3XkOiIS6ui9gxYDK7aIQ_jvUC5fRxHOLBA6Aa6zZz8Zx8XEaTvdNABkiQxO1m2zxYk8ZQW5lHFo9eDizdT7KrFdos3EdNTcYxVyfxGoyyshv0y1Pu18eXaMFmPZyJjGyVd/s1600-h/IMG_0596.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422617566301434514" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElj3XkOiIS6ui9gxYDK7aIQ_jvUC5fRxHOLBA6Aa6zZz8Zx8XEaTvdNABkiQxO1m2zxYk8ZQW5lHFo9eDizdT7KrFdos3EdNTcYxVyfxGoyyshv0y1Pu18eXaMFmPZyJjGyVd/s400/IMG_0596.jpg" /></a>Meaning the :<br /><ul><li>peace of the water</li><li>thrill of the ride</li><li>challenges of the run</li><li>love of the outdoors</li><li>quest of new adventures</li><li>joy of friends, family and training mates.</li></ul>I do not have the athletic gifts to excel at triathlon, but I am grateful to have the desire, drive and determination to be a part of this unique community.<br /><br />After typing these last few sentences - a word started to make sense.<br /><br />"True."<br /><br />In 2010 I am going to be OK with being true to who I am and what I want to do.<br /><br />Happy New Year everyone!TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-74630412907970593392009-12-10T12:13:00.010-05:002009-12-13T10:34:18.991-05:00Gym CastI always enjoy when my favorite <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">bloggers</span> post about the characters they find in their gyms - it is kind of like virtual people watching.<br /><br />I belong to a local YMCA - and the branch I usually go to is frequented by fairly serious athletes and triathletes - a higher percentage than you might find at most <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ys</span>.<br /><br />But, there are a few interesting regulars, like <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Yogaman</span> - a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">budda</span> like, very flexible, older gentleman who can spend hours on the side of the pool going through <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tai</span> Chi poses and standing on his head.<br /><br />The other day, I ran into two others. I'd just finished swimming a few laps with Guppy SW and was getting ready for weight torture with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ironwoman</span> Canada. Hence, my hair was wet. A woman walked into the locker room, heading my way. She leaned over and stared into my face, with a perplexed look of disgust, saying "How did you get THAT sweaty?"<br /><br />I briefly considered breaking out the blow dryer and hair spray before repulsing the rest of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tuckahoe</span> Y members. Though being late for <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ironwoman</span> Canada seemed a worse wrath, so I walked over to the weight room, while adjusting my wet bangs.<br /><br />Soon, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ironwoman</span> Canada had D2 and me really sweating (so I kept on alert for the locker room woman). We were stationed near the back of the gym, on like the 100<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> alternating lunge, when an older woman barrelled toward me, barking out "Class coming through!" It was obvious she wasn't stopping or rerouting her path for me - so I jumped out of her way - letting her pass before resuming my lunges. Within seconds, the rest of the geriatric posse followed - making it clear that we were in the way of the route they've traveled from their 7 am class through the 10,000 square foot gym since retirement.<br /><br />On the bright side, they did get me out of a few lunges.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-22774154890209254882009-12-03T21:13:00.021-05:002009-12-06T21:52:13.461-05:00Off SeasonMy newest <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Splish</span> swimsuit features a cute little penguin family huddled among snowflakes on the front - and the words "off season" spread to the limit across my not so petite bottom.<br /><br />Off season - with Ironwoman Canada's help, I've been working on "getting it" a bit more this year.<br /><br />After <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">IMFL</span> in 2007, my endorphins were running so high that I continued training as if another <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ironman</span> race was on the immediate schedule.<br /><br />2008 ended with training efforts focused on late season half <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">IMs</span> and marathons.<br /><br />My 2009 "A" race was <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">IMUSA</span> in July - followed by my final "B" race - the Giant Acorn Olympic race - in early October. Meaning that off season started earlier this year - and on a bit of an "off" note.<br /><br />Alas, as well as the 2-5 pound weight gain fluctuation.<br /><br />Even with a little extra <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">pudge</span>, I've been striving to understand and trust the benefits of off season. I'm still training 6-10 hours per week, but trying to make all those hours enjoyable.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZ00HEJkSoSlrNE-PLxHVtNW5MeTN4zKL2ksyVfQC0hpTX5z7GHr5Cy-VdiGPAR632Kwx8NfHymmSvXcUlgyZrsEJeXC8GwX9AzZPw9XxSU0c1IknWO_39EQWykAv3L5a_WB7/s1600-h/bike.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 300px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 210px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411216917788087554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZ00HEJkSoSlrNE-PLxHVtNW5MeTN4zKL2ksyVfQC0hpTX5z7GHr5Cy-VdiGPAR632Kwx8NfHymmSvXcUlgyZrsEJeXC8GwX9AzZPw9XxSU0c1IknWO_39EQWykAv3L5a_WB7/s400/bike.jpg" /></a>I look forward to swim and bike workouts - without the pressure of upcoming races. I've been incredibly annoyed by rainy weekend weather forecasts. I've been itching to bike on beautiful days - but have cut workouts short - or even skipped workouts - if the weather was crappy.<br /><br />But those nice bike riding days...have made my heart flutter. I've relished moments casually cruising through beautiful scenery or pushing harder speeds.<br /><br />These past few weeks, I've started to feel a twinge bit more comfortable about running. I've headed out without my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Garmin</span> and enjoyed the cooler temperatures, the fall leaves - and lately - the Christmas lights. I've tried to focus on technique, no matter what the distance - hoping to create a new and better imprint.<br /><br />Trust and acceptance - maybe a few months of physical and mental rest and rejuvination will actually be beneficial vs. detrimental for next season.<br /><br />We'll see.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-84635861443630770032009-11-23T13:39:00.005-05:002009-11-23T13:50:52.013-05:00Watch Out For GravelWith the start of "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">off season</span>," several of my training buddies have been bitten by the mountain biking bug.<br /><br />I tried mountain bike riding a few years back. Like 10 to put it in perspective. I can't remember where we rode, but I do remember being so proud of myself after rolling over a few small log piles. I also recall thinking it was fun - like a day of hiking - though I hopped off the bike for a few more scary sections of the trail.<br /><br />Well, my friends are on a whole '<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">nother</span> level with their excursions. I've heard about the crazy falls and seen the impressive <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">hematomas</span>.<br /><br />They've been gradually wearing me down, though, with promises of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">becoming</span> a better bicyclist. When my company sent out the ten year work <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">anniversary</span> "pick your award" email, I noticed there was a mountain bike.<br /><br />This must be a sign, right?<br /><br />So I cut and paste the details and forwarded to the mountain bike goddesses.<br /><br />Who promptly wrote back (kindly not making fun of me in the response)...<br /><br /><em>"No - that is a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">cruising</span> mountain bike - meant for nice rides on sidewalks!"</em><br /><em></em><br />Given I can't even pick out a mountain bike, let alone have the daredevil coordination to stay on the thing - I am thinking this may actually be a sign -<br /><br />To stay on paved surfaces!<br /><em></em><br /><br /><em></em>TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-30715680386451238432009-11-22T19:17:00.004-05:002009-11-22T19:24:20.007-05:00Ironman ArizonaWishing a great race to several friends doing Ironman Arizona today. According to the athlete tracker, everyone is having a solid race - and though I wish I could be watching on the live feed, for some mysterious reason it won't download on either my desktop or laptop.<br /><br />Pretty annoying.<br /><br />But from the pictures, it looks like a beautiful day to race - and become an Ironman (a special shout-out to FAVE!)!TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-83931908205487505032009-11-08T14:11:00.006-05:002009-11-08T18:32:11.078-05:00Putting it Out ThereFirst - much congrats to all the Richmond <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">IMFL</span> finishers! You were exciting and inspiring to follow yesterday through the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">IM</span> website and online feed (which thankfully worked most of the time) as well as <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">sherpa</span> texts, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">FB</span> posts and phone calls. I can't wait to hear <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">everyone's</span> stories - and hope you all are basking in post race activities right now!<br /><br />Seems I was one of many remembering the magic of Panama City. Over the past few days, a rumor has started and seems to be gaining momentum - a return to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">IMFL</span> in 2011?<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hmmmm</span>. What a happy thought!<br /><br />And a shout out to Guppy <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">TVR</span> - who completed the iron distance Beach to Battleship - in 9:50!<br /><br />All this race excitement has motivated me to put my 2010 race plans out there.<br /><br />The theme for next year is "cheap, within driving distance - and fun." No worrisome travel or intimidating courses:<br /><ul><li>Virginia is for Lovers 14 K - a tribute to John <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Kainer</span> with some of the most fun peeps around</li><li><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rumpass</span> in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">Bumpass</span> Olympic - my favorite local race</li><li>Monument 10K - my best run ever - a goal to try to hit again</li><li>Florida 70.3 - not definite - but hoping it works out</li><li><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">MightyMan</span> - somebody owes me a beautiful day for this gorgeous hometown race course</li><li>Beach to Battleship <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">IM</span> Distance - for some reason, this race really appeals to me</li></ul>And the best part - each of these races makes me...<br /><br />Smile.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-81741696106041318362009-11-06T21:24:00.004-05:002009-11-08T00:05:46.677-05:00IMFL 2009Goooooo strong, wonderful and fabulous IMFL girls (and boys)!!!!!<br /><br />(I think I am more excited about friends doing IMFL this year than I was about IMUSA.)<br /><br />They have trained hard and through obstacles. They deserve the beautiful weather forecasted - and the wonderful onsite super sherpa treatment. A few of us are left behind to cheer from afar - but we'll be doing so with gusto!<br /><br />So excited for you inspiring women - and can't wait to hear your stories!TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37196655.post-9040352762550560132009-10-12T16:16:00.009-04:002009-10-13T08:46:50.521-04:00Feeling Better2009 has been an interesting year so far.<br /><br />The moments when things fell into place seemed to be outnumbered by those when things felt off - sometimes due to the physical, sometimes to the mental. IMUSA and the Giant Acorn being obvious examples.<br /><br />After IMUSA, Ironwoman Canada told me that I needed to cut back. To allow myself to get worse before I could better again.<br /><br />I did well with getting worse.<br /><br />And the past week or so, I am finding that I am starting to feel better.<br /><br />I am not failing as miserably at running. I even had my best 400 about a week and a half ago thanks to some individual attention from Ironwoman Canada. Then, at last week's track workout, Cupcake KO was a wonderful running buddy and pacer. Yesterday, Barracuda BL, the Should Be Sponsored Wife and I went for an easy run. Except none of us seemed to remember the easy part. Great weather and good company had us pushing the pace - maybe to enjoy the coffee reward at the finish.<br /><br />Less time in the lap lane has been good for my shoulder. Today I had an encouraging Guppy workout. I may have even surprised Ironwoman Canada - she remarked a few times that I looked really good in the water. I almost kept up with one of my Guppy swimming heroes, Sharona, during a 50 sprint. Let's just forget the kicking drills for the moment...<br /><br />Then there is the bike. I am grateful for a good bike year. This weekend's Seagull metric century ride (kudos to the Peddalin' SQ for completing the full century and achieving impressive TNT fundraising efforts) started off with a discouraging downpour (during which, Barracuda BL, the Should Be Sponsored Wife and I sat in the car and debated bagging the ride to shop instead). Alas, we braved the storm clouds and headed off for a fun day. I would love to do the ride in the future on a beautiful sunny day - but still enjoyed the smooth roads and pretty course. The first 17ish miles were casual. The next 23 included some tough pace line work. And after a decadent rest stop (picture: great band, river view, hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream and apple pie), we completed the last 23 miles battling crazy cross and head winds.<br /><br />While part of me would like to say I did the mile century, it was great to finish the ride feeling strong - those last 20 miles of a century can be brutal.<br /><br />Then today, thanks to Columbus, I was able to join the Should Be Sponsored Wife and the RABA folks for Mondays with Mary. Though chilly, I loved the 35 mile route from Powhatan to Cartersville. Scenic foliage, fast flats, tough hills, challenging rollers and smooth roads - it was great. The Should Be Sponsored Wife was donning her new Fuji - which looked marvelous on her! We warmed up with soup and half-sandwiches afterwards - and I drove home feeling content, sleepy and...<br /><br />happy.TriGirl 40http://www.blogger.com/profile/03561789997010858947noreply@blogger.com2