Shhh..TRIgirl 40 Something is in a Little Denial

More often than not, I've been eerily calm about the quickly approaching IMUSA date.

I am pretty sure it is some kind of denial. At best it is acceptance.

Yep, I've panicked here or there when completing some type of race preparation, like ordering nutrition or scheduling a bike tune-up. The hardest moments have been when someone has asked me if I am ready.

And I sigh or shrug. I can't say I am or am not. I am not thrilled with what that means either way, but I do know I've worked hard, struggling through the most challenging workouts I've ever attempted.

The shoulder is still feeling good. I had an incredible opportunity to swim at Guppy AS's Lake Gaston's paradise - a "not so torturefest" few days with Ironwoman Canada and several great training buddies - helping me to believe I could have a solid swim (for me) at Placid if I can overcome the claustrophobia of 2000 plus swimmers hitting tiny Mirror Lake (and if I could bribe the Real Deal to be a bandit and let me draft of him).

While I wish I had more time to work on climbing, I also know that too many more long mountainous bike rides without a bunch more good fun ones thrown in between might break my spirit.

After beginning to stabilize on new asthma meds, running is on the upswing. It is not anywhere near where it was at its best, but it is a heck of lot better than where it was even a few weeks ago. I could kick myself for not recognizing what was going on and dealing with it sooner, but am grateful that something finally clicked in my stubborn brain.

And in this non denial moment, I've let it register that in exactly a week, I'll be in the Peloton SUV with the Barracudas and the hubby.

But I'm still plugging my ears with my fingers about the following four days after our arrival in Lake Placid.

"la, la, la, la, la, la, la..."

Torturefest 2009 - Day 2 - The Looong Bike

Saturday morning was an early rise and shine day. Ironwoman Canada formed three groups to make sure everyone would have someone looking out for them.

I had ridden the course last year when signing up for the race - but we had started in Keene vs. Lake Placid, so my orientation was a bit thrown off as to where we would be beginning.

My group, including TRIgirls KO, SS, LD and Barracuda BL headed off. The first mile or so was slow and easy as we made our way through town. But soon, we were huffing it up one rather significant climb. Just like most of the climbs on the course, some parts were steeper than others, but it was mostly uphill for a good 7-8 miles. What a way to start the course - on a long hill that hadn't even earned a name! TRIgirl SS took care of that detail, by christening it the "Bastard" (the "Bastard" would soon become part of the famous trio - the Bastard, the Bitch and the Wench). While these nicknames may never be spray painted on the roads, they'll bring me some comic relief on race day.

After the last few rolls of the Bastard, the first steep hill traffic sign came into view:



I knew what that meant.

The descent.

(Ask Barracuda BN how many of these signs there were on the descent - and he'll tell you 2. I thought there were 6-7 - but turns out there were over 10!).

TRIgirl SS had shown us a few key tips for surviving the 9ish miles. It was time to try those out, plus see if some of the work I'd done since last year would make a difference in my confidence.

TRIgirl SS headed off first. I took a deep breath and tried to keep her in my sights as we flew down the hill. Having her ahead of me helped me gauge how to tackle the downhill. I sang songs in my head, trying to spend time in aero and refrain from using the breaks. Overall, it was a big improvement. I was more relaxed than last year - and even had moments of enjoying the exhilaration of gaining momentum down the mountain.

We gathered at the bottom, for one of the many SAG stops. Sherpa Extra K was waiting for us - and we were able to strip off layers. The day was warming up and we had some serious climbing ahead.

First though, was the lovely, relatively flat stretch. My favorite part of the course, where you can gain a little (non-downhill) speed and enjoy the pretty scenery. Unfortunately, it probably lasts less than 10 miles

I remembered the left turn from last year - the one that signified the start of the climbs. The Bitch is one of the steeper uphills. We climbed the Bitch. For most of the rest of the loop, even when the climbs leveled off, the course was still slightly uphill. We skipped the Haselton out and backs for this ride.

As we finished the first loop of about 43-44 miles, we rode through town again, including a few very short, but very steep downhills. On race day, one of these downhills actually is lined with haystacks to cushion out of control crashing riders.

We started the climb up the Bastard again. My legs felt strong and I was happy with how the first loop had went.

This time, dark clouds, rain and wind decided to meet us just as we were approaching the descent.

Creating one of the scariest bike experiences of my life.

The rain was cold and the wind was unpredictable. I felt my bike being pushed one way or the other across the road. Sometimes the wind gust direction seemed to change within seconds. Needless to say, I braked more this time down - and was much more tense. I still tried to force myself to maintain a fairly fast speed - and felt a sense of comfort when TRIgirl SS passed me and I could focus on her vs. the rest of the hill. It was hard to believe this was the same descent from a few hours ago - it seemed much, much longer.

At the bottom, Sherpa Extra K and TRIgirl SS were there. I got off the bike and was shivering and quivering, not only from the cold and wet conditions, but also from a major surge of adrenalin - a fight AND flight response to make it down the hill. I put layers back on as we waited for the other riders - but I still had goosebumps and was shaking like a leaf.

The downhill seemed to scare most of us to some degree. But we all agreed it, in a way, it was a good experience - we'd be better prepared to deal with tough conditions on race day if needed. We were not thrilled with the rain that was still coming down - and decided we'd check in after the flat stretch to determine if we'd finish the entire ride.

The rest of the second loop seemed much harder - though we did it all. Maybe because it was the second loop, maybe because of the weather and maybe because my energy had been sapped a bit by the descent. We plugged through the rest of the ride, ticking off the climbs.

While I would have happily skipped the 20 minute transition run at the end of the bike - Ironwoman Canada would have none of it. So I put my sneakers on and headed out for about 2 miles of running in the rain.

After the run, it felt awesome to walk about into the house - and smell the delicious aromas of appetizers and dinner awaiting - thanks to the efforts to TRIgirl DL and her BF.

It was time for refueling. The next day would be another major workout - and my longest run since the stress fracture.

Torturfest 2009 - Day I - Arrival

I've thought about how to start this post series even while in Lake Placid when my brain was fairly delirious from the hardest training I've ever done within a few days.

There is much to write about - so I'm going with the multi-post approach, taking it by the day.

I left Virginia on Thursday night with Ironwoman Canada and Sherpa Extraordinaire K. It was a fun road trip, though I actually had to drive for a good chunk (my traveling companions risked my tendency to fall asleep in the car after even a ten minute ride). We shared many hilarious stories and discovered Ironwoman Canada's penchant for army songs - including those that involved stabbing someone with a knife. We survived the impromptu karaoke, as well as pea soup fog and even boardroom negotiations for a reasonable rate at an Hotel 8.

Friday morning, we pulled up to our base camp, a beautiful home called the Hawthorne, practically on Mirror Lake. TRIgirls KB and SS were already there - we unpacked our bags and headed into town for lunch. Our caravan had survived the previous 20 hours on pretzels, gum and cheerios - we were desperate for some real food.

By the time we walked back to the Hawthorne, everyone else had arrived. We were a little off schedule, but had just enough time to fit in a short bike including a few miles around the lake and one out and back of the run course. It was an easy, fun ride enabling us to make sure our bikes were in order for the next day's workout. We couldn't fit in the short open water swim in Mirror Lake (and as things turned out - this probably would have been the best day to brave the cold waters).



We headed out for a group dinner at the quaint Brown Dog Cafe and Wine Bar. All the dog themed prints left me missing Buttercup and Fezzy, but the food was delicious - and the wine selection was impressive. We celebrated Barricuda BL's birthday with a gluten free and yummy carrot cake. I impressively sucked the creamy icing off every ounce of cake on my plate justifying the calories as carb loading.

After dinner, Ironwoman Canada, Sherpa Extra K and I headed to our room with three squeaky twin beds. They both fell asleep fairly quickly - though it took me a little longer to settle down. The next day's workout had me a bit freaked out. We'd be riding two loops of the IMUSA bike course, minus the Haselton out and backs.

For the first time in almost a year, I was worried about what was in store for Patriot Sangria and me.

Rumpass in Bumpass - Race Report Part 2

My training buddies and I were in the same swim start wave – which was very cool. We eased into the water, chilly, but really not that bad. We went through the previous day's tips and added pouring hot water down our wetsuits – which was incredibly helpful. So much so, that even getting out of and back in the water was no problem.

After a final group hug, our blue cap wave was about to set off. I followed Ironwoman Canada’s directions to start more toward the front of the pack. The swim felt great and I didn’t even mind being close to other racers. The first yellow turn buoy arrived fairly quickly. At this point, I still had two racers on either side of me who had been swimming with me for awhile – so I just continued along with them around the turn.

Stroke, stroke, stroke, sight, don’t see the buoy for awhile.

Stroke, stroke, stroke, sight, still no buoy.

Stroke, stroke, stroke, there is the first buoy ahead.

Stroke, stroke, stroke, sight, look for next buoy.

Notice there are NO swimmers ahead and STOP.

My swim partners kept going while I looked around. Yep, no one was ahead, though a few poor souls had followed us – as we basically had made a U-turn and were heading back to the start. Did I just blow any chance of a PR within the first 10 minutes? Wasn’t my race number supposed to be a good omen? I saw a bunch of blue caps on the correct path and concentrated on narrowing the ever growing gap. Somehow, I caught up with a group of them by the second yellow buoy and, thankfully, managed to stay on course for the rest of the swim. My time was 32:10 – about 40 seconds off my best Olympic swim time – 5/15 in my age group. Considering the extra meters, I was grateful.

In transition, I tried not to dawdle as much as I usually do – and actually did OK – again 5/15 in my age group.

I was excited to get on Patriot Sangria. Before the race, I decided to push the bike – I had an average mph goal in mind if the weather was good and I was feeling strong.

I settled in, ate and drank a bit before the turn to the main road. Then, I gradually built up speed. Since my legs felt good – I tried to figure out that point between what I could maintain with a good push vs. what would be too much. The course was slightly rolling with one climb that was a bit deceiving and a beautiful smooth stretch of road where you could fly. Not many women passed me – and I gradually moved my way up through the crowd, passing a bunch of girls in green team shirts.

Around mile 10, I ran into TRIgirl JS – she looked strong and was having a great bike.

With loop one almost done, I looked for information about loop two. I saw a sign with different arrows pointing to the finish and the second loop.

I swear I followed the right arrow.

But as Devilface wisely commented a few years ago, sometimes you just get race drunk.

I think I sensed something was off – I called out, “Loop 2, Loop 2?” but I don’t think anyone heard me.

Then I see the transition area. Then the dismount line. I slow down and stop.

“Loop 2?”

“This is the finish. You missed it – it is back up by the main road.”

“SH*****TTTT!!!!”

I made it back to the main road to start loop 2 - adding probably a little over a half mile to the day's course. I cringed seeing all those green shirts again - and it took probably another 10 miles to make up lost ground. I was happy that I appeared to be maintaining my pace - maybe it was SuperAnnn's magic candy. I didn't know my overall bike time because I hadn't reset my the trip time (doh) before the race. When race results were posted later, I found out my bike was 1:18:29 - 4/15 in my age group. I met my goal and with a little cushion - especially if factoring in the extra distance!

Pulling in, it was great to see SuperAnnn and Barracuda BL's big smiles.

T2 wasn't quite as good as T1 - 9/15. Maybe because I wasn't nearly so excited about running as I had been about biking!

After leaving transition, it was back onto the trail from earlier in the morning. It was muddy in places - not overgrown, but with a few serious roots sticking up here and there. After pushing on the bike, I definitely felt that wonderful (awful) "brick" feeling - and more pronounced than I'd experienced in a long time.

The run out and backs were mostly on the road, with many rollers. It was getting warm - but still nice and dry - so dumping water felt good and kept me cool for most of the stretches between aid stations.

All the TRIgirls and I were pretty close on the run and we'd see each other on the out and backs. At one point, I told TRIgirl JS that I'd pay someone to do the second loop for me.

I had the Garmin for the run - so I knew my run was averaging at a slower pace than my best for an Oly race. I actually started to feel a little better during the last 2 miles (not that my pace improved at all). Though the last few hundred meters seemed much longer!

Coming around the corner to the finish, I saw and heard our great sherpas cheering. I mustered up a small sprint - and hoped the time I saw on the clock was right. And that the start time was right.

Because if it was...

I found out later my hopes came true. I had a PR - of a whopping 35 seconds - 2:59:28, just barely breaking 3 hours for the first time. Even with my lackluster run of 1:03:12 - 8/15. Overall, I finished 5/15 - with the fourth place finisher beating me by 15 seconds.

All my training buddies had solid races, too. TRIgirl JB shared my need for a compass as she missed a turn on the run and probably did an extra half mile (I'll take extra time on the bike any day vs. the run). And there was some hardware to celebrate! Barracuda BN placed first in his age group and TRIgirl PH finished second in hers. We waited to watch them receive their awards - very cool and impressive glass mugs - while sipping some of SuperAnnn's champagne.

I think all of us were enjoying the day - and we decided to extend it a little longer with a final stop back at TRIgirl JS' home.

For some Rumpus wine and cookies!

Training Update - The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

The Good -

Love my bike. Love my rides. Love my fellow bike riders. Love...OK, you get the picture. Seriously, the bike is going well. Recently I've had great rides with TRIDi, TGCoach CD and Ironwoman Canada.

I always look forward to rides with TRIDi. She is so much stronger than she gives herself credit for - even before factoring in that she is about to graduate from an accelerated business IT program, works full time and is dedicated to her family, kids, dog and friends. Our rides are tough, but always full of fun moments and great conversation.

TGCoach CD kindly agreed to meet with me for a ride before I left for Phoenix. We made this year's first pilgrimmage to Miller's Lane, with her devious hills and cruel teases. TGCoach CD helped me feel more comfortable with my natural tendencies for dealing with traffic and worked my butt off trying to teach me how to attack hills as we rode the Capital One loop a bunch of times. Build up speed, rise off your seat, come out with acceleration.

Ironwoman Canada and I ventured out on her 5 county course this week. She claims riding with me is fine. It is like the third or fourth time she has been on her bike in over two years due to injury and having a baby - though her rockstar abilities were obvious - I don't think she broke a sweat while I panted and gasped for air more times than I want to remember. She made me pull for over half of the ride, giving me pointers for climbing tough Patterson hills and yelling at me to PEDAL when hitting descents I'd normally coast (and brake) through (I learned that bike breaks were reserved for after the workout, not during) - making this training ride with notable winds and tough climbs within seconds of my White Lake half IM race pace.

Now Patriot Sangria's life would be perfect if we could throw in a few bike rides with more TRIgirls (DL, Annn and MS, among others!), Barricudas (BL and BN) - and the rest of the winter posse!

The Bad -

While my swim training has seemingly remained on track, I had a rude awakening during a core workout when I couldn't put my left arm into the correct position for a lat pull exercise because it.would.not.go. Right arm - perfect, left - a mess. My shoulder pain has fluctuated from tolerable to annoying to more uncomfortable than I want to admit - and when Ironwoman Canada told me "This is not good," I scheduled an appointment with Dr. S for this coming Tuesday. All signs are pointing to tendonitis - and I'm hoping that a good cortizone shot will reduce the inflammation so I can build up strength and flexiblity.

The Ugly -

I've been struggling with running since the SF. Though I am gradually upping the distance, my pace is all over the place. The dreaded side stitch from my early running days has returned, usually around mile 2.5. During my t-run yesterday, I tried running up hills for the first time since SF - and it was not fun. I am grateful that my foot is feeling fine, but also realize I've lost some ground and have my work cut out for me for Placid.

Barracudas

TRIgirl BL's husband teases us about the Guppies name.

After Ironwoman Canada's workouts this past Monday, Barracudas may be better justified.

300 meters of fly (OK, not all in a row, but the most I've ever done in one workout).

Ab work in between sprint swim sets.

And 60 modified push-up (Not straight through, but 10 after 6 200 meter runs).

Uh, yeah.

The Best Flip Turn Drill Ever

Monday Guppies...

Quick aside - Ironwoman Canada had the crazy idea to move me to the faster lane this past Monday. This has happened a few times when some of the speedier guppies do not show up. I actually kind of like it because I much prefer to be the last person in the lane than having to lead. Though my favorite scenario is when TRIgirl BL comes - and I am able to fall in behind her in our normal lane. Or on the very rare occasion when Coach B takes pity on me...

Anyway, moving on to something much more interesting - Monday's flip turn drill.

We'd just finished a slew of one arm, breathe away and sprint sets when Ironwoman Canada plopped water dumbbells at the end of each lane. All sorts of crazy ideas started going through my head - as new equipment usually signals some type of torturous challenge.

Like swimming with sneakers on and shirts tied around your waist. (Or in my case, expending huge amounts of effort to float in place with sneakers on and shirts tied around your waist.)

We were told to grab a weight for each hand as Ironwoman Canada explained the drill. We were to kick with the weights in front of us till reaching the half way point of the lane, flip, letting the weights keep our arms up, then return to the starting point kicking on our backs.

The first attempts for most of us were a comedy of errors.

And then we all started to get it. For the first time, I was able to experience what it should naturally feel like to complete a flip turn, with my arms in the correct position to streamline on my back before rotating to swim.

And the drill not only became the best flip turn lesson ever - but also kind of fun.

So much so, I was sad to see the water weights go.

Another Example

I've posted before about my aversion to going to the doctor and my lack of being aware of what is going on in my body.

Before the Chesapeake swim, I was having some trouble with my left shoulder. I chalked it off to the super long workouts - especially when it seemed to get better after the swim that kicked my...

Until a month or so ago when I noticed the discomfort again. My shoulder wasn't happy when swimming, though I ignored it. Taking off my shirt at night became a painful event. I literally was dragging my bad arm up using the momentum of pulling my shirt off with the good arm.

Still, though, I just ignored it - and thought I was being a wimp.

I didn't want to say anything before MightyMan, because I didn't want to hear what I expected to be the answer.

So I kept mum until after MightyMan. When I finally told Ironwoman Canada, pointing to the bothersome area. All the time expecting to hear - you need to go to the doctor and rest for a few weeks.

But she said - that sounds like tendonitis. Take Ibuprofren (where I interrupted and said how I don't like to take drugs, until she pointed out this was part of the treatment - not to just mask the symptoms) and ice it for a week or so.

Not completely convinced, I started on the Ibuprofen (I wasn't quite as consistent with the icing). I had no idea how bad things were until they started to get better. Not quite 100%, but a noticeable improvement!

I could take my shirt off by lifting both arms up.

I could sleep at night without keeping my left arm tucked into my side.

And today, I swam. Holy cow - my left arm could actually "pull" too.

Maybe next time, I'll speak up a little sooner.

It Is What It Is

Coach M has uttered these words many times.

And I've thought I understood.

You can't change who you are.

Your abilities.

Your talents.

Your training.

What you've done.

What you haven't done.

Recently these words have been rattling around in my brain.

A month ago, I felt strong - I was having some awesome workouts.

Since then, I've been putting in the hours.

The last few weeks have been a struggle.

Sometimes more mentally than physically.

I've worried about missing some key training - due to work, travel and hurricanes.

I felt stale and cranky in the water yesterday after not swimming for a week.

Not exactly what you want before your taper begins.

Today's bike and run felt better.

Not my strongest.

But stronger.

Am I ready for MightyMan?

I hope so.

Ironwoman Canada says I am.

I trust her.

And also realize.

With a new appreciation.

It is what it is.

The Taper

I first learned about “the taper” when joining TRIgirls a few years ago. After hearing the promises of reduced training, I remember being surprised to see workouts on the schedule during the days leading up to those initial sprint triathlons or 10Ks. My visions of lounging on the couch for two weeks with Ben & Jerry as my main training companions were quickly replaced with preperation planning, hydrating - and runs, bikes, swims.

Obviously, I didn’t “get it.”

For Eagleman, the taper was a little more noticeable – on paper anyway. But I was so worked up with nerves and excitement, that though I conceptually understood the idea, I still wasn't getting it.

IMFL gave me my first real taste of the taper. The week or two before the race, I felt energized. I wished for a few more longer workouts – but resisted because it was taper time. And it worked, I had a great race (for me).

With White Lake just a week and half-away, I am doing better recognizing the signs that the taper is near. I was pleased with how I did during Ironwoman Canada's last Masters class – 14 100s on tough intervals interspersed throughout the workout – and I actually hit them all. This past weekend’s long bike with TRIgirls SS, SD, MW and KB included a decent negative split for the last 38 of the 78 miles – and my legs felt strong afterwards (my shoulders and neck a little less so).

In the next few days, the workouts will begin easing off.

The only temptation causing me heartache is the Eastern Shore bike scheduled for this coming weekend. I loved this ride (other than the last 15-20 miles) last year and Saturday’s weather looks terrific. After this past weekend’s great ride, I can’t wait for the next longer excursion with Patriot Sangria. Some of my team mates training for Brazil will be cycling 100 miles. I’ve resigned myself to not being able to join them for the entire distance, but was really hoping for a 50 mile ride.

Unfortunately, a half century distance is not on my schedule and I’ve been hearing some “feedback” about my plans. I’m trying to figure out ways it could work (what if the last 25 miles were leisurely?).

But the verdict is still out.

Well That Makes Things Harder

You know, I occasionally wondered about the purpose of assigning an interval to one set of whatever when swimming. I just assumed the goal was to try to finish said whatever set within the posted time.

With the announcement earlier this week that Ironwoman Canada was moving Masters to Thursday, the pool was a little less crowded tonight. It was just Dr. Joe and me sharing a lane. After our warm-up, we had a fast 200 and then a couple of 150s. After trying to draft off him for the 200, I noticed he was watching the clock - when it clicked.

The interval posted for the 200 meant that we were supposed to finish the 200, enjoy any remaining rest time - and start the next set on the interval listed.

Oooooh.

Monument 10K Race Report

Prologue...

Sitting down to write this race report, I realized I haven't blogged much about my running lately.

Between a few changes in perspective, some encouraging training sessions - and the cooler weather, the past six months were scattered with new pace goals and PRs.

Reflecting back, I think I've been afraid to jinx it. Maybe these were fluke training sessions. It seemed premature to put it out there in black and white. My running was improving?

Now, before any ridiculous ideas start crossing your mind, please know, I am still slow.

But possibly a little less slow.

The Report...

Starting the season with a running race was a relief. The night before, even with packing my bag with numerous options for the weather, getting ready wasn't a big deal. I filled two bottles with Gatorade, picked out my running clothes and clipped my number to my fuel belt.

The day before included an early morning long swim and a late evening bike. I slept well (except for waking up a few times to loud, torrential downpours that I hoped would be gone by morning) and woke feeling fairly rested.

Thankfully, the worst of the rain did pass. Race morning was cloudy, humid, drizzly, damp, but no thunderstorms.

I drove to TRIgirl BL's house. She and her husband drove us to TRIgirl SJG's house. We grabbed garbage bags to keep us dry for the mile-ish walk to the race start.

We ran into a bunch of TRIgirls (over 60 TRIgirls were participating) - and went through the usual last minute search for port-o-potties. Then it was off to find our wave, where tons of women in pink were already clustered together.

TRIgirl BL and I had been discussing our race plan for a few days. We'd settled on aiming for 9:30 for mile 1, then taking off five seconds per mile for the next 4 miles, then one final pick-up for the last 1.2 miles.

Given my running history - and that last year's 10K was a 1:01:26 - a smidgen under a 10 minute mile pace - this was an ambitious plan. I dropped my prediction to 58:30 from 59:00 for the TRIgirl contest to see which team could come closest to their estimates.

Our wave gradually made its way to the start. We hit the mats and TRIgirl BL and I began weaving through the crowd for the first half mile, looking for openings. Once we found a decent place to settle in, we noticed TRIgirl LD was right there with us.

The three of us ran almost the whole race together. First mile, felt good, pace was fast - 9:18. Revised our plan - hold 9:15ish for the next few miles. Mile 2, still felt good, 9:11. Mile 3, going along fine, 9:16. Mile 4, not bad, 9:02. Mile 5, 9:16. It was time to pick-up the pace and my race started to get hard. TRIgirl BL encouraged me as I fell back a few feet (thank you, TRIgirl BL). Having to go to the bathroom did not help. I was soon keeping up again, but barely. Mile 6, 8:56. Last .2, TRIgirl LD sprinted ahead. TRIgirl BL and I crossed the finish line, I was one second behind her - at an 8:24 pace.

Overall race time - 57:05 according to the official results.

A PR of about 4 minutes and 20 seconds since last year and 2 minutes from any runs this year.


Epilogue...

The rest of the day was a blur of TRIgirl activity. We found the rest of our teammates and heard others' stories of great races and PRs. We had a champagne toast at TRIgirl Annn's (with perfect post race nutrition - chocolate covered marshmallows and bananas - YUMMM). Then it was off to TRIgirl AM's housewarming party. The evening wrapped up with our half IM dinner - which was fun and very informative.

It was a great race - and a great day. I owe much to TRIgirls, Ironwoman Canada (who called me after the race and said next year would be 55:00!) and my teammates.

Thanks to them...

I am still not fast.

But possibly a little faster.

Could’ve, Would’ve, Should’ve

I am a little annoyed at myself.

With a bunch of TRIgirls off drinking wine for charity (twinge of jealousy), the lanes were a bit more empty than usual at Wednesday’s Masters class. The remaining attendees were juggled around so that a couple of super speedy swimmers, including TRIgirl KB, were placed in the LoJ2 . Looking at the whiteboard, the theme for the workout was painfully clear - “hard and fast.”

Uh, yeah, fast is not really my thing.

The tough workout started off fairly well. The fast 200 had me wondering if I incorrectly read the clock or calculated the wrong time because the interval seemed too good to be true. The descending 150s made me think I may actually have more than just one speed. For the first set of 3 100s – on an interval that leaves me breathless - I was fortunate to draft off Dr. Joe, finishing with about 15 seconds of rest between 100s.

But it was pretty darn hard and I had to fight to keep that draft off the good doctor.

Then there were a few more challenging speed and non-free sets.

So, when the second set of 3 100s (on an interval that was 5 seconds faster than the first) came around, I chickened out. I jumped behind a girl who I knew would be slower and would allow me a break.

I was quite happy for the first 100. But, as I cruised along comfortably during the next two, I realized I could have pushed harder.

It may not have been pretty – and I may not have hit them all - but I should have at least tried.

I hope next time I'll remember this feeling and won't take the easy way out.

Future Fly Girl?

Tonight's Masters class was flippin' great.

I love our Lane of Joy II. All the mean boys (well, just one really) have been replaced by nice girls. TRIgirl JH has joined us. TRIgirl BL was back from her Pirate Anniversary, looking tan and fit. TRIgirl Fave and I took turns drafting off both of them. TRIgirl KO deserted us for another lane and TRIgirl SQ, though spotted in the locker room, was MIA from the LoJ2. We did have another new female swimmer join us - who said we were the best lane - we worked hard, but were the most polite, encouraging and supportive.

Exactly!

Ironwoman Canada's whiteboard for the evening included an interesting mix of drills, speedwork and other strokes.

Which leads me to a reticent announcement...

I think I could like butterfly.

I don't have it quite right yet - and it completely wipes me out.

But there is something about it that I really enjoy.

Back stroke frustrates me. I am constantly getting water in my face and can't seem to figure out where the pull belongs, not to mention I seem to zig zag across the lane like a pinball.

Breast stroke is fine, but I do feel kind of dorky and froggish.

But, as TRIgirl JH pointed out tonight, there are moments when doing fly, you can feel like a dolphin.

I like that analogy.

The New Lane of Joy

Ironwoman Canada stirred things up a bit at yesterday's Masters class.

First, instead of sequentially placing us in the pool from slowest to fastest, she re-orged the lanes. The Lane of Dread, normally the 3rd lane, was moved to the 5th lane, typically occupied by the second fastest swimmers (who seem to have a completely different workout than a bunch of us). I have no idea where those guys ended up - but it was kind of neat to not feel so obviously "ranked."

Second, she placed more TRIgirls in the Lane of Dread. I think out of the six or seven swimmers - 2/3 were TRIgirls. TRIgirls Fave and KO have joined me in the Lane of Dread before (and have kindly let me draft off them) - but I was so happy for TRIgirl SQ, who, I believe, completed her first entire Masters in the LoD, with much more grace and speed than my initial attempts.

Thanks to them, the Lane of Dread might need to be renamed - it might need to be called the new Lane of Joy.

We've got a few more TRIgirls who are on the verge of graduating. Soon the Lane of Dread Lane of Joy II, will be the "IT" place to be.

I Heart Masters Class

As much as I've always recognized Masters class was good for my swimming, I have to admit I've often found myself driving to it with mixed emotions. I looked forward to seeing Ironwoman Canada and working out with my friends (TRIgirls are literally taking over the pool - sometimes occupying up to 2-3 lanes!). But, the 6:30 pm start time meant most weeks I'd just finished a stressful day at work. There have been several occasions I've had to use all my willpower to not allow my car to take me home instead of the Y.

Then there was the apprehension of being the slowest. And looking like a spaz during drills. And feeling the panic and discomfort when gasping for air during sprints.

But this year has been different. I'm finding that even if I arrive to class a bit weary and tired - within a few minutes of swimming I am happy again - and enjoying most of the sets.

Yesterday, for whatever reason, I really liked the workout. Maybe because it was the first time I came within 50 meters of doing the entire swim practice posted. Yes, I stayed a few extra minutes and drafted off the super strong TRIgirl BL - but I finished my longest distance in Masters class to date - 2750 meters.

Or maybe it was because I found myself (almost) looking forward to the change of pace when we hit the sprint sets. Interspersed between 300s and 100s were 3 sets of 6x25 sprints. I remember, not so long ago, when doing 1 set of 4x25 sprints just about did me in. (OK, I have to fess up here - one of my 6x25s was actually a 4x25 - hence the missed 50 - I ended up getting behind a confused swimmer and Ironwoman Canada let me sit out for 2 25s until the group caught up.)

But maybe it all just comes down to mere emotions. Like this year's "believe" theme. Or a sense of accomplishment vs. frustration. Or rediscovering, that as the pieces gradually come together, underneath it all, I just truly love to swim.

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.

Zippidy Do Da...

Ironwoman Canada has lent me her Reynolds DF UL racing wheels for IMFL.

While, being a newbie, I am more familiar with the Zipps brand, these babies seem like a twin sister.

Assuming I haven't jinxed myself with a flat tire - they should add a little distance to my mph - or offer less effort for the same distance.

I am a bit nervous about using them. Patriot Sangria and I will be heading off this week to the bike store for one final outing to get the "I'm not worthy tires" mounted - and for a little tune-up.

While I feel quite honored to be able to borrow them, Patriot Sangria, on the other hand, is strutting about just thinking of her new accessories.

Workout Snapshots

While it may seem that I've spent the last few weeks merely planning upcoming races and contemplating training goals, I actually managed to complete a few, uhm, challenging training sessions, too. Here are a few recent workout snapshots:

July 26 - Not quite, but almost, kicking and screaming, I've resigned myself to early morning workouts for some of our Tuesday/Thursday bricks. Because either I'll be too tired after work. Or I'll end up in a bind because of a thunderstorm. Or because a morning workout will allow me to actually partake in a social event or two. So, way too often, the alarm clock goes off around 5:15 am. On the schedule for this Thursday in July was a 45 minute bike and a 45 minute run at West Creek - by myself - and a perfect time to see if Patriot Sangria could help me beat previous 6 mile loop times. My best with Amarone was around 21 minutes. First lap - 19:50. Second lap - 19:35. Workout snapshot - "A somewhat stunned TRIgirl 40 staring at her Garmin."

July 28 - Ah, Saturday - meaning a long workout brick. This Saturday was HOT, Virginia hot and humid. TRIgirl KO and I decided to brave the 30 mile bike and 10 mile run together. Coach B lapped us for the upteenth time before riding along with us for a WC loop. We tried to bike harder so Coach B wasn't completely bored - while we picked his brain about form and nutrition tips. I thought to myself - cool, nice pace for that lap. Until we started the next one - and heard Coach B's challenge to take it up a notch. All that talking on the previous lap - not so much on this next one. That final lap was a great push and wore my legs out a bit more than usual for the 10 mile run ahead. Great practice for IMFL - when my legs will not be very fresh for the run. Coach B's push helped me understand what I should be striving for during a tempo bike - and that I can get through a long run (even if I need to walk occasionally) when I can't imagine that my legs will be capable of getting me past just a mile or two. Workout snapshot - "TRIgirl 40 toppling off her bike in the parking lot from being 'exercise drunk' as Devil Face so perfectly described."

August 1 - Gotta love Wednesdays because they are a swim day. With Ironwoman Canada back in town, I decided it was time for another private lesson. 7:00 am, we met and worked on my form. She videotaped my stroke - which showed my left arm having a "windmill" like motion vs. a nice relaxed elbow bend and extend. By the end of the lesson, my stroke was longer and stronger through focusing on more of a "catch up" action. I was excited for that evening's Masters swim class to practice what I learned. Except, when I got to Masters, I found myself struggling, exhausted, breathing heavily - and not having the productive swim I'd been looking forward to since the morning's lesson. My body rebelled with my first ever calf cramp while swimming. Workout snapshot - "Ironwoman Canada digging her fingers deep into TRIgirl 40's leg cramp."

August 4 - Another Saturday, this time a 30 mile bike, 12 mile run. I was so jealous of some of my TRIgirl buddies heading out for a 60 mile ride. The bike went fine - 30 miles in 1:41 minutes - and it didn't feel like a major push. Even the first 8 miles of the run were OK. Then the heat seemed to worsen. And I realized I miscalculated my route which ended up being closer to 13 miles. Workout snapshot 1 - "TRIgirl 40 has the best reason to take a slight break - a beautiful doe glides across the road and stops within yards of where TRIgirl 40 quietly watches." Workout snapshot 2 - "Lying in the parking lot as TRIgirl TB kindly offers a bandanna filled with ice to cool down a disgustingly sweaty TRIgirl 40."

August 6 - Guppy Swim. TRIgirl DL has joined Guppies - and since we both share an unusual first name - there are occasional funny situations where folks try to figure out how to address us. Ironwoman Canada helped me experience another "aha moment" when she pointed out that I was following through too far with my left arm - contributing to the windmill like motion we worked on the previous week. The cue of immediately bending my elbow when pulling out of the water made a big difference with understanding how to stop the windmilling. Workout snapshot - "TRIgirl 40 watching the clock for the end of five straight minutes of kicking."

August 7 - Another early morning bike/run with TRIgirl DL. Another ridiculously hot Virginia day. We were both thankful for waking up early to fit in the two hour workout before the predicted heat index of 105 degrees kicked in. We biked along at a good pace for the first 20 miles. For the last 6, I timed myself - 18:46. Beating the July 26th record. Workout snapshot - "TRIgirl 40 shooing the geese that strolled across the road just as she was trying to gain some momentum for the dreaded Farmer's Bureau hill."

The Decision

The coaches pretty much agreed either Mightyman or Naylor's would work with the IMFL training schedule. But I've decided to stick with Naylor's this year, mostly because it will be cheaper for both the registration and travel fees.

And as Ironwoman Canada told me this morning - it will be great speed work for me.

An Olympic distance race as speed work? Naylor's, no less, with its rip tide swim, challenging bike and demoralizing run course? I just shook my head.

Next year - though - I am in for Mightyman - and have already heard that several TRIgirls may be joining me!