Today concludes the last week before back to school. My goal was to complete 4 century rides by August 10th. So close...I have completed 3 of them. Today's ride was cut down to 90 miles. I was alone at the end stretch and it is so hot outside, that I just couldn't continue. I only got to 90 miles. After a small melt down in the car, a discussion with the Lord, and a reality check I am feeling better now. Sometimes I wonder how in the world I am going to do this. After the ride my ankles (especially the right) are very sore and stiff. I have no idea what causes this pain but how can I transition into the run afterwards? "You find a way," my husband says.
It has been a successful week. No days off for the past 2 weeks but that was purposeful. I wanted to push hard for back to school time so that I could relax next week if needed. This week I completed a total of 160 miles on the bike (thanks to the thunderstorm which cut Tuesday's ride off short), a 14 mile run week and a lousy swim week; 2.7 miles. It is so stressful swimming and jockeying the weather. When lightening is 10 miles away, a horn goes off at the pool. Then we have to wait 30 minutes to get back in the pool if the weather is clear. What is the point?
I am looking forward to the open water swim tomorrow. The "Lee Triathlon Club" is hosting a swim at Lake Kennedy in Cape Coral @ 5:30. I will try my new swim skin tomorrow with my race gear. I am looking forward to that.
Back to school tomorrow...
Total Miles (since Jan 2014) thus far:
Run: 301
Bike: 2,111
Swim: 74.7
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Monday, July 28, 2014
century rides and the Ohio trip
After completing two 100 mile rides, I feel much more
confident for this event. We have been
getting up early to get a head start on the ride. The alarm goes off around 5:30 but by the
time we get out of bed, we are at least pedaling by 6:30. It is amazing to see the sunrise and avoid
the morning commute of people going to work. I have also been enjoying getting
up early in the morning to begin the ride because it takes me about 6 hours to
ride 100 miles and if I were to begin later in the morning, the day is pretty
much over once we finish. I can enjoy
the evening if we want to go out to dinner with family/friends with a nap in
between.
At the moment I am averaging 16-16.5 mph at this
distance. The main issue has been
battling an upset stomach around mile 60.
I try not to push myself at all during this distance. I need to store energy for the marathon
after. I can’t pinpoint what is causing
it but I can get through it after a few miles.
If I can continue to get through it, I can live with the nausea. I am still using GU Roctane endurance powder
on the bike for each 16 oz bottle I carry.
I am wondering if the FL heat, which causes the drink to heat up, is
what is causing the nausea so this next ride I will keep 2 bottles on ice in a
cooler and pick them up half way. If
that seems to take care of the problem, I will be happy. Once we are in Cozumel in November the
temperatures should be cool enough to not cause the problem. Also, I will have
no place to store cold bottles.
As far as solid food and liquid nutrition, I am continuing
to eat a Bonk Breaker bar and GU gel every 30 minutes/20 miles. This does become annoying after mile
60-70. I just don’t want to eat any more. I continue to do so though because I will
need it once I get on the run. I did
switch up and try a new gel because of the low fructose intake. They are called V-tech or UCan. I cannot remember the name. I am typing this from 33,000 feet in the air
as we travel home to Fort Myers so I have no way to look it up right now. These particular gels are not right for me
because I NEED the fructose/glucose (sugar) otherwise I have major problems
with my hypoglycemia. Lesson learned
here, stick with what is working for me.
It has been difficult to swim a lot this past week. Our summer weather storms have not been
cooperating. Now our county has
lightening detectors and when a storm is within 10 miles away the horn goes off
and all have to immediately get out of the pool. I believe my record for shortest distance was
3 laps (75 yards). I don’t know if that
is considered a PR or not…
We are traveling home from Columbus, OH. I was able to run two times while there. It was very enjoyable considering the low
humidity and air temperatures. Many
locals were talking about how “hot and humid” the weather has been. These people have no idea. I think I accumulated enough sweat on my 5
mile run on Friday at Antram (sp) Park that is equivalent to the same amount of
sweat that I would accumulate walking from my front door to my mailbox in FL in
the summer. No exaggeration. Saturday I
ran from the Payne residence to a small town called Worthington. This particular day was the farmers market. Many vendors had various vegetable stalls,
flowers for sale and other novelties.
Everything smelled delish. It was
difficult not to stop to look around. I
have a few pictures to include here; one
of me running at the park on Saturday, and a few of the historic spots in
Worthington/Columbus, Ohio. And of
course, Newton Running.
Despite security removing my “Quaker Steak & Lube” sauce
I planned on bringing home, my random “pat down” through security, the bird
flying into the jet prior to our boarding and the drunk man who wasn’t
permitted on the plane I would like to say that this is my rest day and I must
take it as a way to relax to prepare for tomorrow’s 80-100 mile ride. My coach has nicely altered the schedule so
that I could range form 80-100 miles but I know how my mind works and I will
want to get that 100 once again. I have
to continue to hydrate today and eat well tonight so that I can be
successful.
My ROKA elite swim skin arrived and I made the decision to
go with the size medium for race day. I
NEED NEED NEED to get back and complete and Open Water Swim (OWS) before
returning to school to try this out. Why
is it so traumatizing to think of what is swimming with me? Note to self:
Do not watch “Shark Week” this season.
2 century rides completed.
July 13th I completed my first century ride with a time of 6 hours and 16 minutes.
July 20th I completed my second century ride with a time of 6 hours and 14 minutes.
Huge celebrations on each day. When I got off the bike I had very sore ankles so it is still difficult to comprehend how I will continue on and run a marathon to finish this beast.
7.13.14 I had some nausea around mile 60 but was able to overcome that with water.
7.220.14 it was much easier to complete this 100 mile ride.
July 20th I completed my second century ride with a time of 6 hours and 14 minutes.
Huge celebrations on each day. When I got off the bike I had very sore ankles so it is still difficult to comprehend how I will continue on and run a marathon to finish this beast.
7.13.14 I had some nausea around mile 60 but was able to overcome that with water.
7.220.14 it was much easier to complete this 100 mile ride.
Thursday, June 26, 2014
I. AM. SORE.
Saturday we did an Open Water swim. I say "we" because Don paddle boarded right next to me. Luckily he is a lifeguard and knows CPR if I were to need the assistance. :) The swim was down current and the seas were pretty rough. I panicked at first but was able to calm myself down. I am learning new things each day with each training discipline that I do. I always have anxiety to start any swim workout so I am working on some coping skills to help keep the heart rate down. I finished the 2 mile swim in one hour/six minutes. Amazing! But again, thanks to Mother Nature I was able to swim faster because of the direction I was going.
Sunday June 22 I rode 80 miles. It was tough! The heat is beginning to get unbearable. We haven't had any rain in about 5 days so the temperature hasn't had a chance to drop to give us a break. I took my time with my pace but kept a high cadence. It was pretty tough but I made it.
Wednesday, June 25 I completed my first brick workout of this training program. I felt much stronger upon completion. I swam 1 mile, biked 20 miles, and ran 1 mile. I am back to running but only short distances.
That afternoon, I went to the eye doctor. They took my blood pressure (is that normal to do that) and it was at a record low of 104 over 62. She asked if I normally run low, which I do, but it has been confirmed that it is because of the high intensity workouts and my endurance abilities. Just think what exercise will do for anyone who is suffering from high blood pressure.
Tomorrow is a new day. Open water swim again. I dread it because of the anxiety. Wish me luck.
Sunday June 22 I rode 80 miles. It was tough! The heat is beginning to get unbearable. We haven't had any rain in about 5 days so the temperature hasn't had a chance to drop to give us a break. I took my time with my pace but kept a high cadence. It was pretty tough but I made it.
Wednesday, June 25 I completed my first brick workout of this training program. I felt much stronger upon completion. I swam 1 mile, biked 20 miles, and ran 1 mile. I am back to running but only short distances.
That afternoon, I went to the eye doctor. They took my blood pressure (is that normal to do that) and it was at a record low of 104 over 62. She asked if I normally run low, which I do, but it has been confirmed that it is because of the high intensity workouts and my endurance abilities. Just think what exercise will do for anyone who is suffering from high blood pressure.
Tomorrow is a new day. Open water swim again. I dread it because of the anxiety. Wish me luck.
Saturday, June 21, 2014
Open Water swim pics
Sunday, June 15th, I rode the trainer for 5 hours. It actually wasn't that bad. I think the dreadfulness about the whole thing was just getting started. I watched 2 movies; "Girl, Interrupted" and "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" and two episodes of "Weeds." All kept my interest for the 5 hours on the bike.
The XLab Gorrila bottle cage doesn't fit on my Adamo saddle. It says it fits specifically but with my speed box is in the way. Poooooooo!
Today was a great day. We took the boat out (task 1), I swam open water (task 2) and Payne paddled back to the boat (task 3). We started the swim off of Ft. Myers Beach by Diamond Head resort. The water was very rough and the winds were high. I felt very very anxious heading into the water. I applied a thick layer of deodorant, sunscreen and anti chaffing on the areas were I have issues. It was way better than before but still some chaffing. I swam 2.02 miles at a time of 1 hour and 6 minutes. If the conditions were to be similar to Cozumel, I would only have point 4 more to go and then I would anticipate that I could finish the swim in 1 hour 30 minutes (or better). I had a few anxiety spells and a few times where I felt algae or sea weed in my hands and once felt like I was stung from a jelly fish. All in all, I am happy that I was able to pull things together and finish the swim, strong. I swam to shore and was not out of breath at all. I then walked 2 miles back to the boat while Payne paddled.
The XLab Gorrila bottle cage doesn't fit on my Adamo saddle. It says it fits specifically but with my speed box is in the way. Poooooooo!
Today was a great day. We took the boat out (task 1), I swam open water (task 2) and Payne paddled back to the boat (task 3). We started the swim off of Ft. Myers Beach by Diamond Head resort. The water was very rough and the winds were high. I felt very very anxious heading into the water. I applied a thick layer of deodorant, sunscreen and anti chaffing on the areas were I have issues. It was way better than before but still some chaffing. I swam 2.02 miles at a time of 1 hour and 6 minutes. If the conditions were to be similar to Cozumel, I would only have point 4 more to go and then I would anticipate that I could finish the swim in 1 hour 30 minutes (or better). I had a few anxiety spells and a few times where I felt algae or sea weed in my hands and once felt like I was stung from a jelly fish. All in all, I am happy that I was able to pull things together and finish the swim, strong. I swam to shore and was not out of breath at all. I then walked 2 miles back to the boat while Payne paddled.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
summer
I didn't realize how long it has been since I posted until I just logged in now. I am happy to say that even though the blog has not been consistent, the training has.
With school coming to an end the month of May, I tried to maintain what I had built up as far as training. May 11 and 12th I was in Key Largo for our annual 5th grade field trip. During the week prior, I took my bike to work on the back of the jeep and drove to Cape Harbor as soon as I could get out of school. Doing so, I was able to ride 40 miles consistently for 3 days in a row. I could tell that I needed some time off. The weekend in Key Largo was the time I took my rest from training but of course, not from kids. Since then, I was able to coast though the remainder of the school year.
June: I did (am doing) a lot of riding on the trainer. At the end of May, there was a lot of late nights at school with moving my classroom and we had to tackle a lot of weather. So I thought it was best to get the rides done on the trainer rather than not do them at all. Summer started but we unfortunately had to deal with a family situation. My mother in law passed away June 3rd. It was difficult to focus on training that day and the days after. I pushed through and once I returned back to FL after her funeral, I was right back at it. I am riding 3 hours and swimming 2 miles. Saturday I will swim iron distance and then on Sunday I will ride for 5 hours on the trainer. I know that I am going to absolutely lose my mind but it will be worth it in the end.
I have been reading a lot about Great White Shark sightings off the coast of Sanibel. I know these are protected species and they are very interesting to look at...from a tv screen. It is a little too close for comfort to know they they are in our waters. I can't swim in the G. of M. right now. I just can't do it. Two weeks ago while on my 70 mile bike ride (I felt great by the way) I saw the invasive species called a Monitor Lizard. They can grow to be 5 feet long and can run 18 mph. I saw it in a ditch along the bike path. At first it looked like an alligator but the nose of it is much more pointed. This is what I love about training outside. There are so many things to see.
I have not been running on the street until the dreadful day of March 16th. The good news is, all blisters have healed and my dead toenails have grown back. The bad news, I haven't been running in the pool as much as I said that I would. I hope that I have my fitness from swimming and biking so that come July 1, I will be ready to run and it not make me hate it since I will be starting from scratch. Earlier this week the phone rang and I was in the other room. I ran from one side of the house to the other not realizing that I still wasn't "running." I had no issues. I actually think it is time to get started. I have to look at my calendar to see when the first day will be but I think my body has healed and I am ready. It is amazing that my recovery from my myomectomy was faster than the recovery of the stress fracture of my foot.
Monday I picked up 4 garbage bags from the grocery store. These are going to work as my makeshift gear bags for now. I will begin to collect items to put in there now. I have time now since I am not working to fill them with the items I need.
That is it for now.
With school coming to an end the month of May, I tried to maintain what I had built up as far as training. May 11 and 12th I was in Key Largo for our annual 5th grade field trip. During the week prior, I took my bike to work on the back of the jeep and drove to Cape Harbor as soon as I could get out of school. Doing so, I was able to ride 40 miles consistently for 3 days in a row. I could tell that I needed some time off. The weekend in Key Largo was the time I took my rest from training but of course, not from kids. Since then, I was able to coast though the remainder of the school year.
June: I did (am doing) a lot of riding on the trainer. At the end of May, there was a lot of late nights at school with moving my classroom and we had to tackle a lot of weather. So I thought it was best to get the rides done on the trainer rather than not do them at all. Summer started but we unfortunately had to deal with a family situation. My mother in law passed away June 3rd. It was difficult to focus on training that day and the days after. I pushed through and once I returned back to FL after her funeral, I was right back at it. I am riding 3 hours and swimming 2 miles. Saturday I will swim iron distance and then on Sunday I will ride for 5 hours on the trainer. I know that I am going to absolutely lose my mind but it will be worth it in the end.
I have been reading a lot about Great White Shark sightings off the coast of Sanibel. I know these are protected species and they are very interesting to look at...from a tv screen. It is a little too close for comfort to know they they are in our waters. I can't swim in the G. of M. right now. I just can't do it. Two weeks ago while on my 70 mile bike ride (I felt great by the way) I saw the invasive species called a Monitor Lizard. They can grow to be 5 feet long and can run 18 mph. I saw it in a ditch along the bike path. At first it looked like an alligator but the nose of it is much more pointed. This is what I love about training outside. There are so many things to see.
I have not been running on the street until the dreadful day of March 16th. The good news is, all blisters have healed and my dead toenails have grown back. The bad news, I haven't been running in the pool as much as I said that I would. I hope that I have my fitness from swimming and biking so that come July 1, I will be ready to run and it not make me hate it since I will be starting from scratch. Earlier this week the phone rang and I was in the other room. I ran from one side of the house to the other not realizing that I still wasn't "running." I had no issues. I actually think it is time to get started. I have to look at my calendar to see when the first day will be but I think my body has healed and I am ready. It is amazing that my recovery from my myomectomy was faster than the recovery of the stress fracture of my foot.
Monday I picked up 4 garbage bags from the grocery store. These are going to work as my makeshift gear bags for now. I will begin to collect items to put in there now. I have time now since I am not working to fill them with the items I need.
That is it for now.
Friday, May 2, 2014
Sunday, April 27, 2014
High volume
Great week. One hundred fifty six miles logged on the bike since last Sunday. Little by little the rear is getting use to being uncomfortable. My neck and shoulders have come a long way and staying aero for that long is getting easier. I am happy.
Today's ride started with a flat in my rear tire. It took awhile to change the flat because of issues with the CO2 cartridge but we were successful with getting back on and continuing the ride. Today's goal was 50 miles and I am happy that we met the goal.
I think I underestimated the temperature and humidity. Summer is here. The temperature is well above 90 degrees. I ran out of water with 10 miles to go. Yesterday I had a rough day because I didn't use recovery and felt as though I was going to faint. I was worried that would happen today while riding but it seemed to be alright. I was happy once the garmin beeped at 50 miles.
Don had a flat rear tire today too. Weird.
We saw a 6 foot alligator. He was hiding in the ditch. Cool thing.
Today's ride started with a flat in my rear tire. It took awhile to change the flat because of issues with the CO2 cartridge but we were successful with getting back on and continuing the ride. Today's goal was 50 miles and I am happy that we met the goal.
I think I underestimated the temperature and humidity. Summer is here. The temperature is well above 90 degrees. I ran out of water with 10 miles to go. Yesterday I had a rough day because I didn't use recovery and felt as though I was going to faint. I was worried that would happen today while riding but it seemed to be alright. I was happy once the garmin beeped at 50 miles.
Don had a flat rear tire today too. Weird.
We saw a 6 foot alligator. He was hiding in the ditch. Cool thing.
Sunday, April 20, 2014
wearing the boot--new swim equipment
For 2 weeks I have been in a boot. The injury hasn't healed yet. For 2 weeks I was walking on the injury and it just wasn't getting better. Tomorrow, will begin week 3 of the boot. I know that it is almost healed but not quite 100% yet. I will probably wear it for 2 more weeks while at work. I am use to it now.
My swim training is stepping up. I have been working on intervals with the pull buoy and just started using paddles ( I think that is what they are called). The paddles make swimming difficult. My heart rate is up and I am enjoying the strength training. I guess this is equivalent to lifting weights. I don't have time to fill in another workout piece so these paddles will do for now.
I have amped up my biking. Just this past week; 30 miles on Wednesday, 40 on Friday and 45 miles today. I am working on getting my rear in gear. It is difficult to get that in shape to continue on. Next week, I will ride a 50 mile on Sunday.
I haven't ran in the pool for a week. I know I need to get busy and continue that but it is BORING AS HELL. At least here at home we have the TV outside. I can get caught up on my shows.
Payne ordered Bonk Breaker bars for rides. I love the new banana peanut butter flavor. Delish.
My swim training is stepping up. I have been working on intervals with the pull buoy and just started using paddles ( I think that is what they are called). The paddles make swimming difficult. My heart rate is up and I am enjoying the strength training. I guess this is equivalent to lifting weights. I don't have time to fill in another workout piece so these paddles will do for now.
I have amped up my biking. Just this past week; 30 miles on Wednesday, 40 on Friday and 45 miles today. I am working on getting my rear in gear. It is difficult to get that in shape to continue on. Next week, I will ride a 50 mile on Sunday.
I haven't ran in the pool for a week. I know I need to get busy and continue that but it is BORING AS HELL. At least here at home we have the TV outside. I can get caught up on my shows.
Payne ordered Bonk Breaker bars for rides. I love the new banana peanut butter flavor. Delish.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
doctor's orders
I went to see Dr. Schwartz. A stress fracture does not show up on Xray until 2 weeks after the injury. This could be the problem but the good news is that it is early onset if so and I have caught it early enough. I am feeling much better today but he says to rest from running for 2 weeks. I will probably rest for 3. I can bike and swim though which is good.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
kick off
The past two weeks have been eventful. I amped up my swimming. Since Miami 70.3 I have maintained a 1 mile swim once a week. I am glad that I made this choice because now I am headed in the right direction with swimming. Some fatigue at the end of the last 400 but not as bad as it would've been had I stopped swimming since October.
Biking was progressing nicely with 20 and 30 miles two-three times per week with a 40 mile on the weekend. This past Sunday, there were wind gusts 35-45 mph so I was only able to get a 15 mile ride it. I was terrified for my life. I witness one man get hit by a car while riding that day so I had an uneasy feeling for the afternoon. The wind was horrible, yet I biked anyways. I should not have done this.
Running has been going ok with 5miles 3 times a week and then a 9 or 10 on the weekend. The weather has been fabulous for all training conditions despite the wind.
Monday, all went down hill...
The plan was to run 5 miles. I ran 3 and then began to feel a sharp pain at the top of my foot. I stopped, loosened my laces thinking that was the problem. I kept running. It hurt still so I tightened the laces. Again, pain. I stopped and then walked home. It took forever.
Tuesday...limping all day. I was hurting but it was better.
Wednesday...today is better but still difficult to walk. I have been icing, resting, elevating and using compression every few hours. I caved and finally made a doctor's appointment with Orthopedic Specialist of SWFL. My appointment is today at 2:30. I am dreading what Dr. Schwartz will say but hoping for the best. Don thinks I have been running too much. I think that I hurt my foot while biking on Sunday because I was having difficulty staying in the saddle because of the wind and my anxiety and fear. I pray for no major problems.
In lieu of my biking and running workouts I swam the past 2 days. I am swimming with the pool buoy so that my legs do not move so I can rest my foot. I have to do something...
Stay tuned for doctor's diagnosis...
Biking was progressing nicely with 20 and 30 miles two-three times per week with a 40 mile on the weekend. This past Sunday, there were wind gusts 35-45 mph so I was only able to get a 15 mile ride it. I was terrified for my life. I witness one man get hit by a car while riding that day so I had an uneasy feeling for the afternoon. The wind was horrible, yet I biked anyways. I should not have done this.
Running has been going ok with 5miles 3 times a week and then a 9 or 10 on the weekend. The weather has been fabulous for all training conditions despite the wind.
Monday, all went down hill...
The plan was to run 5 miles. I ran 3 and then began to feel a sharp pain at the top of my foot. I stopped, loosened my laces thinking that was the problem. I kept running. It hurt still so I tightened the laces. Again, pain. I stopped and then walked home. It took forever.
Tuesday...limping all day. I was hurting but it was better.
Wednesday...today is better but still difficult to walk. I have been icing, resting, elevating and using compression every few hours. I caved and finally made a doctor's appointment with Orthopedic Specialist of SWFL. My appointment is today at 2:30. I am dreading what Dr. Schwartz will say but hoping for the best. Don thinks I have been running too much. I think that I hurt my foot while biking on Sunday because I was having difficulty staying in the saddle because of the wind and my anxiety and fear. I pray for no major problems.
In lieu of my biking and running workouts I swam the past 2 days. I am swimming with the pool buoy so that my legs do not move so I can rest my foot. I have to do something...
Stay tuned for doctor's diagnosis...
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Hooters Half marathon
Thanks to Fort Myers Track Club who put on a great event. They always have plenty of aide stations, a well-marked course, and many restroom facilities.
Today I raced a new PR of 2:06.
I've decided that if I could only fix this foot/torso/anatomy issue, I would be able to go faster more efficiently. The left side of my body tends to rotate more when running. This probably contributes to the tightness in my lower back, neck and shoulder. I was told to see a physical therapist; not just a chiropractor. I can't imagine completely changing my stride in a small amount of time until November. I think it is impossible but what I must do is add more Yoga to my weekly routine. We do paddle board a lot. Can that count for building strength and balance? I am not an expert in any of this... I fight a blister on my left foot by my big toe when I run longer than 6 miles. I wear double layer socks, use Slather and a friction block to help prevent the blisters but still teeter back and forth with pain, a hot spot, or a blister. I can gut through a race but have a few days off for time to heal the wounds. I have tried Mizunos, Brooks, Sauconys, Asics. The list goes on and on. Newtons seem to feel the best. If I run in Newton Isaac S I have no blister but they are more of a trainer. On race day I run in Newton Motion racers. If I change my stride and run more on my toes I can avoid the blister starter but I really have to think and stay focused. When I wear the Newton Motions I run faster. Period.
Other than the hot spot on my foot, I felt great over all. I'm ready to take a break from so much running to focus on my biking and swimming. I am ready to get on the bike tomorrow.
Today I raced a new PR of 2:06.
I've decided that if I could only fix this foot/torso/anatomy issue, I would be able to go faster more efficiently. The left side of my body tends to rotate more when running. This probably contributes to the tightness in my lower back, neck and shoulder. I was told to see a physical therapist; not just a chiropractor. I can't imagine completely changing my stride in a small amount of time until November. I think it is impossible but what I must do is add more Yoga to my weekly routine. We do paddle board a lot. Can that count for building strength and balance? I am not an expert in any of this... I fight a blister on my left foot by my big toe when I run longer than 6 miles. I wear double layer socks, use Slather and a friction block to help prevent the blisters but still teeter back and forth with pain, a hot spot, or a blister. I can gut through a race but have a few days off for time to heal the wounds. I have tried Mizunos, Brooks, Sauconys, Asics. The list goes on and on. Newtons seem to feel the best. If I run in Newton Isaac S I have no blister but they are more of a trainer. On race day I run in Newton Motion racers. If I change my stride and run more on my toes I can avoid the blister starter but I really have to think and stay focused. When I wear the Newton Motions I run faster. Period.
Other than the hot spot on my foot, I felt great over all. I'm ready to take a break from so much running to focus on my biking and swimming. I am ready to get on the bike tomorrow.
Thursday, February 27, 2014
I started biking again this week. I am starting from scratch. Saturday was Day 1 of blank and I biked 27 miles. I'm not concerned with cadence at this point, nor speed. My only concern is getting back in the saddle and getting comfortable again.
Sunday I ran 10 miles. My last official road race is this Sunday. My legs felt heavy and weak from Saturday's ride. I used my Fuelbelt with 3 water bottles and only took on 1 GU. I had more confidence in my body that reality. I have low blood sugar, so staying on top of my sugar in take is key. I bonked at mile 7. Note: never do that again.
Monday was a 3 mile run and Tuesday was my 20 mile ride. I felt better already on the second day of biking. This time of year it is difficult and scary to be on the road. Many elderly people are here in the winter months. Now that they are better with technology it is just a bad mix with them on the road and texting and driving. Because of this dilemma I try to find other place to ride to avoid the craziness. This particular place I go is great for avoiding traffic and close to home. However, at this particular moment Suncoast Sanitation decided to unload the Port-a-pots. It was either deal with the stench or ride on the crazy busy roads. I decided to "deal with the stench."
Yesterday was a 6 mile run. I felt great. I am off until Sunday's Hooters to Hooters half marathon.
Tomorrow's agenda includes meeting up with our good friend, Christina Cuadra from Newton. I look forward to that visit.
Monday, February 24, 2014
26 point freakin 2
On February 16, 2014, I ran (did not walk one bit) my first full marathon. I never in my life thought I would complete this event. Actually if I didn't sign up for Ironman I probably never would race this distance. It is brutal on the body from head to toe(s).
The Paradise Coast Marathon in Naples, Florida had a 2 loop course. I am not a fan of loops but this was a cost efficient race. We didn't need to spend the money on a hotel and find someone to watch the dogs. My husband is great about assisting me in all of these races because he can relate to all experiences. We woke up at 4:30, were on the road by 5:00 A.M. and traveled to Naples for the event. The first half of the race (13.1 miles) I felt great. I had 16 ounces of GU Roctane to start, a banana, and a Larabar. At mile 2, I took on water and mile 3 a GU gel. I repeated this water/GU refuel every 2-4 miles. I couldn't believe it but at mile 12, I actually started to feel hungry. At one of the aide stations, they had Clif MOJO energy bars. I ate two of those while moving and then refueled on a GU Roctane drink at mile 14. At mile 17, I slowed my pace a bit. I needed to regroup. My mind was fighting with me. I managed to have a great playlist so I could sing out loud to keep me occupied. I didn't care one bit who could hear me or not. It is what helped the time pass.
At mile 18 or 19, I passed one girl who was taunting me for about a mile. I fought through the pain and passed her ass. There was no way of her catching up.
Mile 20. I knew I had it at that point. I had a burst of energy but it didn't last for long. I don't know if I actually hit the "wall" at mile 23 but I knew at that point that I wanted it to be over. I approached a group of 3 girls. I say there were probably in my age group. I flew past them (marathon pace) and I could see they were trying to catch up to me. They didn't.
Mile 25. I started to smile. I knew I was going to finish strong. I passed a couple who were walking. I felt confident running with them behind me. After I crossed an intersection and made a left turn I could see "her" coming up quickly behind me. This is a race! I couldn't let her catch up to me no matter how bad my glutes and quads hurt. I kept looking back while running. I was hoping that I wouldn't do something stupid and trip over a rock or a crack in the sidewalk. It would be over for sure then. How would I get up? I managed to keep my pace going fast enough so that there was no way she was going to catch me.
At the final turn I saw my husband and a friend of mine waiting patiently near the finish. It was great to see both of them. My friend, JD, reminded me of the last turn that I had before crossing the finish line. UGH! Finally there it was. 5 hours and 2 minutes = 26.2 miles! Thanks to my husband, Don for riding his mountain bike with me the whole time. I made it with him right by my side.
The Paradise Coast Marathon in Naples, Florida had a 2 loop course. I am not a fan of loops but this was a cost efficient race. We didn't need to spend the money on a hotel and find someone to watch the dogs. My husband is great about assisting me in all of these races because he can relate to all experiences. We woke up at 4:30, were on the road by 5:00 A.M. and traveled to Naples for the event. The first half of the race (13.1 miles) I felt great. I had 16 ounces of GU Roctane to start, a banana, and a Larabar. At mile 2, I took on water and mile 3 a GU gel. I repeated this water/GU refuel every 2-4 miles. I couldn't believe it but at mile 12, I actually started to feel hungry. At one of the aide stations, they had Clif MOJO energy bars. I ate two of those while moving and then refueled on a GU Roctane drink at mile 14. At mile 17, I slowed my pace a bit. I needed to regroup. My mind was fighting with me. I managed to have a great playlist so I could sing out loud to keep me occupied. I didn't care one bit who could hear me or not. It is what helped the time pass.
At mile 18 or 19, I passed one girl who was taunting me for about a mile. I fought through the pain and passed her ass. There was no way of her catching up.
Mile 20. I knew I had it at that point. I had a burst of energy but it didn't last for long. I don't know if I actually hit the "wall" at mile 23 but I knew at that point that I wanted it to be over. I approached a group of 3 girls. I say there were probably in my age group. I flew past them (marathon pace) and I could see they were trying to catch up to me. They didn't.
Mile 25. I started to smile. I knew I was going to finish strong. I passed a couple who were walking. I felt confident running with them behind me. After I crossed an intersection and made a left turn I could see "her" coming up quickly behind me. This is a race! I couldn't let her catch up to me no matter how bad my glutes and quads hurt. I kept looking back while running. I was hoping that I wouldn't do something stupid and trip over a rock or a crack in the sidewalk. It would be over for sure then. How would I get up? I managed to keep my pace going fast enough so that there was no way she was going to catch me.
At the final turn I saw my husband and a friend of mine waiting patiently near the finish. It was great to see both of them. My friend, JD, reminded me of the last turn that I had before crossing the finish line. UGH! Finally there it was. 5 hours and 2 minutes = 26.2 miles! Thanks to my husband, Don for riding his mountain bike with me the whole time. I made it with him right by my side.
Ironman Cozumel-training begins
I signed up for Ironman Cozumel on December 4, 2013. I made the decision to complete a full Ironman distance after experiencing the journey with my husband on August 25, 2013. I will never forget the months, weeks, and days leading up to the trip to Louisville, Kentucky where he completed this difficult feat. Chills ran throughout my body during the long 13 hours, 49 minutes, and 22 seconds of Don's spectacular day. Watching him cross the finish line, I knew I wanted to be next.
I know the amount of time I need to put into this. I also know the sacrifices I need to make in order to complete this goal. I am ready to take on the challenge. I am willing to say "goodbye" to my social life until December of 2014.
After the sign up for the race itself, next comes the reservations to transport the bike. I confirmed my reservation with TriBike Transport. Whoever came up with this idea is genius. A few weeks out from the race, I will take my bike to Trek-Bikes of Estero and TriBike will pick up the bike for transport to Cozumel, Mexico. This is a stress free, secure service so I do not have to worry about TSA at the airport. We learned that TriBike transport is the way to go.
Our flights from Miami to Cozumel are booked and our hotel is ready for our arrival.
I know the amount of time I need to put into this. I also know the sacrifices I need to make in order to complete this goal. I am ready to take on the challenge. I am willing to say "goodbye" to my social life until December of 2014.
After the sign up for the race itself, next comes the reservations to transport the bike. I confirmed my reservation with TriBike Transport. Whoever came up with this idea is genius. A few weeks out from the race, I will take my bike to Trek-Bikes of Estero and TriBike will pick up the bike for transport to Cozumel, Mexico. This is a stress free, secure service so I do not have to worry about TSA at the airport. We learned that TriBike transport is the way to go.
Our flights from Miami to Cozumel are booked and our hotel is ready for our arrival.
Ironman 70.3 Miami
It all started when I raced Ironman 70.3 Miami on October 27, 2014. I completed 3 sprint triathlons and was immediately HOOKED. I don't know exactly what triathlon consists of that has me so addicted. Maybe it's my hyperactivity. Some say that running is their "drug." I think that it is my way to reflect on my life. During my training days I have to concentrate on what I am doing to help better myself and this is the only way I can focus on just "me." According to www.dictionary.com, triathlon is defined as an athletic contest comprising three consecutive events, usually swimming, bicycling, and distance running. I think I like the contest part of it. Maybe it's the 3 events back to back. Maybe it's the challenge to push myself to the limits. I don't know what the answer is nor do I worry about finding it. I just know that I LOVE TRIATHLON. There is a difference between "Ironman" and "ironman." Do you know the difference? One of the best parts of this event was that I had the chance to race with a friend from elementary school. It's been years since we have seen each other but it is cool that we have the same hobbies. I wish she would race Cozumel. Her time will come one day.
Check out this finisher video from 2013. (click link below)
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