The Outlook
I was OhSoExcited about this triathlon. Really!
Just about an hour away from home, lake swim, trail run, small number of participants. All good criteria in my book.
After completing Eagleman a month and a half ago, an Olymic distance seemed so, well, easy! While I had been incredibly anxious about Maylor's Beach last year (my first Olympic distance,) my anticipation for Charlottesville was completely different. I was totally looking forward to it, felt extremely well-trained, and was already imagining it as a new favorite.
The Trip
Got a couple of screws loose on the travel plans. Anna's beautiful new bike doesn't actually fit on her bike rack any more, so instead of riding with her, I followed her up to the race site. My alarm went off at four am, and we got on the road about five. It was dark out for most of the drive, but it was pretty relaxing. I just listened to music and watched Anna's taillights. Much easier than on my way back home when i stopped paying attention for just a second and ended up driving halfway to Lynchburg!
PreRace MisPreparation
Here's where the pitfalls begin. This was my eleventh triathlon, and never before had I experienced any organizational difficulties, much less an Evil Triathlete. Now I got both.
I signed my waiver and proceeded through the packet pickup line. When I showed my license and USAT card, the woman checking called my number out, 220, although I could clearly see that my name had already been crossed off the list. The other woman agreed--220 was missing from the race number box.
"Sit tight," one said. "We'll straighten it out."
"Where's Dan?"
"I don't know who he is."
"He's in the canoe."
The volunteers had this conversation while I sat patiently on the bench.
Then they went back to distributiing packets.
A few minutes later, I asked if there was someone I could find or ask.
"Yes! Do you know Patty?"
"No. I'm from Richmond."
"Oh." And they continued to hand out packets.
Finally another volunteer located Patty, who said I needed to re-register.
The guy hading out goodie bags handed me a registration form. Actually, two.
"May I have a pen?"
More digging around.
I turned in my "new" registration, then waited again while a woman copied all of the information I had just written onto a blank race number, 244.
"Here you go!"
"May I have my race packet?"
The guy handed me a course map and a couple of race brochures.
"Could I get a bag, too, please?"
"We're all out."
Of course they were. Obviously they had handed out all the bags while I was sitting on the bench for twenty minutes.
I moved over to the chip line, where I had to explain my situation to someone else.
"Hold on while I go check," she said. Five minutes later she returned to tell me that my chip would now be fine, but that I couldn't use the stretchy chip band because they were only for relay teams.
"Oh."
Having volunteered at a couple of races this year myself, I appreciate that these people are out there to make the race possible for us, but this was truly a frustrating experience because nobody seemed to have the wherewithal or authority to make any decisions about a mixup, or the ability to find someone who could. Well, I thought, at least this is all out of the way before the race. I was starting to get a little anxious now, though, where I'd been calm all morning before arrival.
I got bodymarked and went back to the "festival-style" transition area, where I'd already racked my bike and set up my transition gear. A guy had racked his bike so that his front wheel rested not-so-gently on my bag.
I moved it over. "I'm sorry if that was in your way."
"Well, you took my spot."
"Excuse me?"
"You took my spot. I had my towel over here, and I was going to put my bike there."
"Well, I had no idea. There was no bike here, and there aren't any numbered spots."
"I put my stuff to the right of where I was going to rack my bike. That's the way it works."
He was being pretty sarcastic with me at this point, so I just said,
"Well, it looks like we both fit here. I didn't mean to ruin your race."
"I was just letting you know triathlon etiquette."
I didn't reply. Just finished bodygliding while I listened to him give some others around us tips on how to race and train for distance triathlon. "So you've done an Ironman?" someone asked. "No. That's the only distance I haven't done," he replied. "I mean, besides this one." Then he went on to talk about the half he had completed. In other words, this distance tri expert had completed zero Olympics, one half, and zero Ironmans. I'm glad he was preaching to me about etiquette!
At this point I realized that the packeteers had failed to give me a swim cap, so I went back over to "my" bench to retrieve it. Plus, I was starting to get worked up about the Evil Triathlete. I know I didn't make that obvious, so I thought I'd point it out!
Thank goodness for TRIgirls! I met back up with Anna, Lynn, Susie, Cyndi, and surprise entrant Mary. I vented, and then Cyndi braided my hair. I hope that was as calming for her as it was for me. Once again I took advantage of her Mom Skills. I hope this may become a tradition!
I decided that Everything that Could Go Wrong already had, so that I must be in for a great race!!! We headed down to the lake.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
NO SELF-DEPRECATING REMARKS
As many of you know, one of my favorite sayings is, "Not with that attitude, you can't." Truth be told, I ripped it off of my brother. He doesn't mind a little plagiarism.
One of my other favorites, and I made this one up myself (very creative, I know,) is, "No self-deprecating remarks." This is actually a rule that I have had in many of my classrooms. "Ms. Hamlin, I'm not a good writer." "I know it's boring, but.."
I find that I "get" to use these sayings frequently with my training partners. I laughed out loud as I read Diane's blog account of Deanna L's self-deprecating, "I'm slow" comments as she continued to extend the length of her ride (at a not-too-shabby 17.2 mph no less!)
Then I laughed out loud again when I got to the next section, where Diane logged her swim workout, needing to "build confidence" that she could actually swim .9 miles in a race, while she completed a 1000m workout at less than 1:05/100m!!! Sounds strong to me...
The diverse group of women with whom I train is filled with people who don't have the attitude that they can't. TRIgirls rock, and I've seen the posters to prove it. They just need to drop the self-deprecating remarks, as well.
Especially if they're faster than me!
Monday, July 16, 2007
Training After Eagleman!
I realized my "positive" post wasn't so much. Obviously, I needed an exclamation point.
Gearing up for cheerleading at Shady Grove next weekend, followed by racing the Charlottesville International Distance July 29. Lake swim, rolling bike, trail run--sweet!
The end of summer school means more time to shower after those weekday brick workouts! Also, now that I' don't have to go straight from VCU to Hondos, I can actually sit down and eat a healthy dinner instead of grazing on french fries, seafood bisque, and assorted fried appetizers at work.
The Camp Hilbert pool is conveniently located sorta close to West Creek. Kay, Anna, Jennifer, and I have really enjoyed this new post-brick hangout! Yesterday, I think Anna and I could even include blowing up our new rafts as another aerobic activity sandwiched in between our 30/10 brick and Swimming with Som.
Oh, yeah, Swimming with Som! After a health-induced hiatus, I made it back to Sunday swimming the past two weeks. Ahhhhh. Love it.
Gearing up for cheerleading at Shady Grove next weekend, followed by racing the Charlottesville International Distance July 29. Lake swim, rolling bike, trail run--sweet!
The end of summer school means more time to shower after those weekday brick workouts! Also, now that I' don't have to go straight from VCU to Hondos, I can actually sit down and eat a healthy dinner instead of grazing on french fries, seafood bisque, and assorted fried appetizers at work.
The Camp Hilbert pool is conveniently located sorta close to West Creek. Kay, Anna, Jennifer, and I have really enjoyed this new post-brick hangout! Yesterday, I think Anna and I could even include blowing up our new rafts as another aerobic activity sandwiched in between our 30/10 brick and Swimming with Som.
Oh, yeah, Swimming with Som! After a health-induced hiatus, I made it back to Sunday swimming the past two weeks. Ahhhhh. Love it.
Training After Eagleman.
Okay. I just posted some of my more negative thinking with a question mark. Now here's the positive stuff.
I ran the James River Scramble the week after Eagleman. I love this race, and I think it made it okay for me to run again (ever) after my first half iron.
I have skipped a few workouts, but none of the key bricks. Felt exhausted yet proud of myself after finishing this weekend's brick with Anna.
My Weight Watchers leader once said, "If you've had a bad week, you need the meeting. If you've had a good week, the meeting needs you." I think this is applicable also to training with the TRIgirls. I always come away from a workout or a clinic or the forum or a blog with a better attitude.
Speaking of Weight Watchers and TRIgirl blogs, several girls have mentioned weight loss or maintenace, and Grandison has dubbed July "Nutrition Month." I have gained fifteen pounds over the last ten months (an accomplishment of sorts, considering I was training for/am training for 70.3 and 140.6!) As Jonah pointed out, it's a lifelong battle for some of us to mantain weight, and I tend to slack off completely once I achieve a weight goal or ramp up my mileage.
So, I'm officially back on the boat. Actively paying attention to what I eat, even though there are so many more interesting things to pay attention to! Forget body image; we're talking about my mile times here...
I ran the James River Scramble the week after Eagleman. I love this race, and I think it made it okay for me to run again (ever) after my first half iron.
I have skipped a few workouts, but none of the key bricks. Felt exhausted yet proud of myself after finishing this weekend's brick with Anna.
My Weight Watchers leader once said, "If you've had a bad week, you need the meeting. If you've had a good week, the meeting needs you." I think this is applicable also to training with the TRIgirls. I always come away from a workout or a clinic or the forum or a blog with a better attitude.
Speaking of Weight Watchers and TRIgirl blogs, several girls have mentioned weight loss or maintenace, and Grandison has dubbed July "Nutrition Month." I have gained fifteen pounds over the last ten months (an accomplishment of sorts, considering I was training for/am training for 70.3 and 140.6!) As Jonah pointed out, it's a lifelong battle for some of us to mantain weight, and I tend to slack off completely once I achieve a weight goal or ramp up my mileage.
So, I'm officially back on the boat. Actively paying attention to what I eat, even though there are so many more interesting things to pay attention to! Forget body image; we're talking about my mile times here...
Monday, July 09, 2007
Training After Eagleman?!
Many of us have read bits and pieces about the emotional letdown after a race, knowing that we expect to be just plain tired, as well.
In addition to recovering my first Ironman 70.3 physically, mentally, and emotionally, I find myself battling other transition periods with perhaps even more difficulty.
School
Aarrrrrrggggghhhh! I am teaching a summer course that meets thirteen times over a period of eight weeks. Only one of my students has been to every class.
No School
The end of my summer class means more shifts at the restaurant. Pray for good tips and no burnout.
Breakdowns
Not mental, yet. In the past month, my car has been in the shop twice, my lawn mower was "totaled," my bike went in for some not-too-major adjustments and repairs, and my air conditioning system in the house clunked out. I stand out in my two-foot lawn and wonder, "Will I ever be able to buy a new bike?"
Lethargy
Is it just the heat and humidity? I have had a hard time getting motivated to do all of my workouts. Ironically, for the first time ever, I completing more swims than bikes or runs.
In addition to recovering my first Ironman 70.3 physically, mentally, and emotionally, I find myself battling other transition periods with perhaps even more difficulty.
School
Aarrrrrrggggghhhh! I am teaching a summer course that meets thirteen times over a period of eight weeks. Only one of my students has been to every class.
No School
The end of my summer class means more shifts at the restaurant. Pray for good tips and no burnout.
Breakdowns
Not mental, yet. In the past month, my car has been in the shop twice, my lawn mower was "totaled," my bike went in for some not-too-major adjustments and repairs, and my air conditioning system in the house clunked out. I stand out in my two-foot lawn and wonder, "Will I ever be able to buy a new bike?"
Lethargy
Is it just the heat and humidity? I have had a hard time getting motivated to do all of my workouts. Ironically, for the first time ever, I completing more swims than bikes or runs.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Eagleman Race Report
Would you believe, seven days later, I am STILL wearing my Eagleman shirt?
I certainly hope not.
That you would believe it, that is.
So, this was the biggest race of my life...
Weather:
Perfect. The only thing to complain about is that I can't blame anything on it.
Swim:
Much as I expected. I did well, but was aware the whole time that I was using extra energy to breaststroke. Don't tell Som.
Bike:
A beautiful ride. I prefer a few hills to break up the monotony, but this course was flat and fast. There was some headwind on the way back in, and I was starting to chafe a bit--wishing for an uphill to stand on... Although I drank six bottles of fluid, I didn't feel the urge to pee, so I didn't test out peeing on the bike. Years of teaching and waiting tables really enable the "holding" factor. I felt so great during the first half of the bike that I imagined myself saying and doing all sorts of ridiculous things post-race. "Sure, I'd love to bike 500 miles over the weekend," for example. I came to my senses around mile 45.
Run:
I honestly have to say the best part about the run was seeing Blake. Then Som. Then Dr. Rick. Then Mark. Then Rick E. Then Ed Amy Liz Susie CynD Deannas Anna Lynn Kate Mary Jo Jonah Molly Sharon not necessarily in that order who did I forget it was so great doing outandback and seeing pink punctuated by Maramarc.
I felt great for the first six miles. Steady pace, walked the water stops. Could really feel the compilation of bike and breaststroke by mile 11, and I walked a bit more. Head up. TRIgirl representin. For most of the run course I must have looked really good or really bad because almost everyone that passed me in the other direction had a positive comment for me. I think it was my contagious positive attitude and gritted teeth that may or may not be a smile. Sorry I missed speedy Jeff, but, wait a second! Didn't I see Karen and Shawn at mile .1, and here they are again at mile 3?!
Most Memorable Moment:
Okay. I TOTALLY crashed and fell off my bike at the dismount area coming into T2. What's that about not using the front brake at twenty miles per hour? And where was Bob Dickerson when I needed him?
Thanks goodness SanDee witnessed the whole thing--the Gammons are always good to have around for an embarrassing moment.
Finish Line:
How wonderful to finish a race into the arms of TRIgirls and Maramarc folk. I especially appreciate the way our cheerleaders ignored that special postrace smell. And I swear SanDee cried first. Not counting when I did DURING the race. Mark handed me my TRIgirl Half-Ironman Finisher pint glass, out of which so far I've only drunk water!
Anna, Deanna, and I "relaxed" on the grass by the car until Mom & Dad finally got there--two hours after I finished. So much for Maryland traffic. They took us out for burgers and beer, and the girls and I made the wisest decision of our lives and stayed over an extra night, chilling with a foot each in the hotel pool and hot tub until we were ready to go out for ice cream.
Post Race Thoughts
Three years ago I ran my first mile since two that were required in high school. Just shy of two years ago I finished my first sprint triathlon. Although "Anything is Possible," I NEVER thought I would do anything this [stupid]. Ha.
So do I feel any different? Yes. I was a lot more tired and cranky this week.
Many peeps who don't TRI or do other endurance activity don't really "get" Ironman, or half of it. They're impressed when I run a mile or three.
So the race itself is six hours and forty minutes or so that I spend with myself and think about how I got to be where I am. Ironman, 70.3, and the other tri distances are less to me about swimming, biking, and running as they are about me, Mom, Dad, Dyron, Shannon, Grandison, SanDee, Susie, Jennifer, Cyndi, Deanna, Anna, Sharon, Molly, Kate, Lynn, Deanna, Jonah, Mary Jo, Liz, Amy, Cheryl, and the rest of the TRIgirls and Maramarc-ers. And goodness gracious, my friends who don't tri and listen to me, anyway. God bless you all, especially those of you who have spent over six hours and forty minutes with me. Time sure breeds some strange thoughts!
XOXOXOXOXOXOXO
carmen
I certainly hope not.
That you would believe it, that is.
So, this was the biggest race of my life...
Weather:
Perfect. The only thing to complain about is that I can't blame anything on it.
Swim:
Much as I expected. I did well, but was aware the whole time that I was using extra energy to breaststroke. Don't tell Som.
Bike:
A beautiful ride. I prefer a few hills to break up the monotony, but this course was flat and fast. There was some headwind on the way back in, and I was starting to chafe a bit--wishing for an uphill to stand on... Although I drank six bottles of fluid, I didn't feel the urge to pee, so I didn't test out peeing on the bike. Years of teaching and waiting tables really enable the "holding" factor. I felt so great during the first half of the bike that I imagined myself saying and doing all sorts of ridiculous things post-race. "Sure, I'd love to bike 500 miles over the weekend," for example. I came to my senses around mile 45.
Run:
I honestly have to say the best part about the run was seeing Blake. Then Som. Then Dr. Rick. Then Mark. Then Rick E. Then Ed Amy Liz Susie CynD Deannas Anna Lynn Kate Mary Jo Jonah Molly Sharon not necessarily in that order who did I forget it was so great doing outandback and seeing pink punctuated by Maramarc.
I felt great for the first six miles. Steady pace, walked the water stops. Could really feel the compilation of bike and breaststroke by mile 11, and I walked a bit more. Head up. TRIgirl representin. For most of the run course I must have looked really good or really bad because almost everyone that passed me in the other direction had a positive comment for me. I think it was my contagious positive attitude and gritted teeth that may or may not be a smile. Sorry I missed speedy Jeff, but, wait a second! Didn't I see Karen and Shawn at mile .1, and here they are again at mile 3?!
Most Memorable Moment:
Okay. I TOTALLY crashed and fell off my bike at the dismount area coming into T2. What's that about not using the front brake at twenty miles per hour? And where was Bob Dickerson when I needed him?
Thanks goodness SanDee witnessed the whole thing--the Gammons are always good to have around for an embarrassing moment.
Finish Line:
How wonderful to finish a race into the arms of TRIgirls and Maramarc folk. I especially appreciate the way our cheerleaders ignored that special postrace smell. And I swear SanDee cried first. Not counting when I did DURING the race. Mark handed me my TRIgirl Half-Ironman Finisher pint glass, out of which so far I've only drunk water!
Anna, Deanna, and I "relaxed" on the grass by the car until Mom & Dad finally got there--two hours after I finished. So much for Maryland traffic. They took us out for burgers and beer, and the girls and I made the wisest decision of our lives and stayed over an extra night, chilling with a foot each in the hotel pool and hot tub until we were ready to go out for ice cream.
Post Race Thoughts
Three years ago I ran my first mile since two that were required in high school. Just shy of two years ago I finished my first sprint triathlon. Although "Anything is Possible," I NEVER thought I would do anything this [stupid]. Ha.
So do I feel any different? Yes. I was a lot more tired and cranky this week.
Many peeps who don't TRI or do other endurance activity don't really "get" Ironman, or half of it. They're impressed when I run a mile or three.
So the race itself is six hours and forty minutes or so that I spend with myself and think about how I got to be where I am. Ironman, 70.3, and the other tri distances are less to me about swimming, biking, and running as they are about me, Mom, Dad, Dyron, Shannon, Grandison, SanDee, Susie, Jennifer, Cyndi, Deanna, Anna, Sharon, Molly, Kate, Lynn, Deanna, Jonah, Mary Jo, Liz, Amy, Cheryl, and the rest of the TRIgirls and Maramarc-ers. And goodness gracious, my friends who don't tri and listen to me, anyway. God bless you all, especially those of you who have spent over six hours and forty minutes with me. Time sure breeds some strange thoughts!
XOXOXOXOXOXOXO
carmen
Saturday, June 09, 2007
Eagleman Eve
Isn't that a new national holiday?!
Kate just chastised Lynn and me for sitting indoors on such a beautiful day, but I am under strict orders from my massage therapist/tanning counselor/mom to stay out of the sun and keep my feet up today! The most invigorating activity I've done today is rubbing some lotion on my legs and giving myself a mini-pedicure.
Kate O drove me, Lynn, and Deanna B up here yesterday--we caravaned with Cyndi and her family. It was great to hit the expo and bike inspection before one million people arrived. We had a great pre-prerace meal of wild salmon, brown rice, veggies, and wheat bread (mine with lots of butter, of course!) before Anna joined us just in time to get a little dinner and play a rousing game of Yahtzee.
We were just finishing up our game when the brewing thunderstorm knocked out power in our lakeside cottage. Thank goodness there was a good stock of decorative candles, most of which had never been lit before. I was happy to put them to good use.
The storm may have cooled things down a bit, but it also created a much more ragged surface on our lake. We're going to check out the Choptank in a little while and assess the damage to the previously serene river surface...
Kate and I already finished a Scrabble game before nine am. She pulled out a couple of bonus words and kicked my ass. On to other ways to distract ourselves from thinking too much about tomorrow's race, while keeping shaded and rested!
Kate just chastised Lynn and me for sitting indoors on such a beautiful day, but I am under strict orders from my massage therapist/tanning counselor/mom to stay out of the sun and keep my feet up today! The most invigorating activity I've done today is rubbing some lotion on my legs and giving myself a mini-pedicure.
Kate O drove me, Lynn, and Deanna B up here yesterday--we caravaned with Cyndi and her family. It was great to hit the expo and bike inspection before one million people arrived. We had a great pre-prerace meal of wild salmon, brown rice, veggies, and wheat bread (mine with lots of butter, of course!) before Anna joined us just in time to get a little dinner and play a rousing game of Yahtzee.
We were just finishing up our game when the brewing thunderstorm knocked out power in our lakeside cottage. Thank goodness there was a good stock of decorative candles, most of which had never been lit before. I was happy to put them to good use.
The storm may have cooled things down a bit, but it also created a much more ragged surface on our lake. We're going to check out the Choptank in a little while and assess the damage to the previously serene river surface...
Kate and I already finished a Scrabble game before nine am. She pulled out a couple of bonus words and kicked my ass. On to other ways to distract ourselves from thinking too much about tomorrow's race, while keeping shaded and rested!
Volunteering at the Powersprint Tri
Last Sunday, I volunteered for the first time ever in an official capacity at a race. I figure that since I've completed nine triathlons now, I was behind schedule in giving back to the sport. Despite the hurricane conditions, it was a fantastic experience. Many of the girls I've trained with for the past year or two participated, including my sister. We also had a record number of TRIgirls completing their first triathlon, which was exciting for our group and intimidating?! for the other racers. Aha...
After body marking with Jonah and Susie--and of course we had to add some inspirational messages along with the requisite race numbers and ages--I joined others outside the pool as they awaited their swim starts.
When I though we were getting closer to the time the Beebs would cross the finish, I joined my dad just ahead of the finish line, where we unsuccessfully attempted to ward off the rain by holding umbrellas sideways against the wind. Shannon had a great race, particularly considering she had alreqady been diagnosed with step and has since been diagnosed with pneumonia! As her doctor said after chastising her for racing, "You healthy people are sometimes so unhealthy!"
T-girl Jennifer S joined me for some cheering--encouraging runners to sprint in the finish and smile big for the cameras--and running out to pick up Cathy and Kay--keep it moving, girls! I was so impressed with all of the Baby Pinks and their performance. What a reward for all the hard work they've put in over the past couple of months. I don't know that I would have finished in those horrific weather conditions... but Karen insisted, contrary to my wishes, that she would still rather do a sprint in hurricane conditions than a half iron in perfect weather. Liar pants.
I look forward to helping out again on July 1 for I Love the Tavern!
After body marking with Jonah and Susie--and of course we had to add some inspirational messages along with the requisite race numbers and ages--I joined others outside the pool as they awaited their swim starts.
When I though we were getting closer to the time the Beebs would cross the finish, I joined my dad just ahead of the finish line, where we unsuccessfully attempted to ward off the rain by holding umbrellas sideways against the wind. Shannon had a great race, particularly considering she had alreqady been diagnosed with step and has since been diagnosed with pneumonia! As her doctor said after chastising her for racing, "You healthy people are sometimes so unhealthy!"
T-girl Jennifer S joined me for some cheering--encouraging runners to sprint in the finish and smile big for the cameras--and running out to pick up Cathy and Kay--keep it moving, girls! I was so impressed with all of the Baby Pinks and their performance. What a reward for all the hard work they've put in over the past couple of months. I don't know that I would have finished in those horrific weather conditions... but Karen insisted, contrary to my wishes, that she would still rather do a sprint in hurricane conditions than a half iron in perfect weather. Liar pants.
I look forward to helping out again on July 1 for I Love the Tavern!
Peer Pressure
Here I am sitting at the Eagleman TRIgirl house, clicking away on Deanna's laptop. She's killing me on post numbers and details, so I thought I'd take the opportunity to do a few updates...
Admittedly, this kind of TRIgirl pressure is much less daunting than the kind that got me signed up for Eagleman and IMFL in the first place!
Admittedly, this kind of TRIgirl pressure is much less daunting than the kind that got me signed up for Eagleman and IMFL in the first place!
Monday, May 14, 2007
More Hills
Some TRIgirls and Maramarc folks headed for the hills again this Saturday. (Mis)led by coaches Mark, Ed, and Blake, our sixty mile ride stretched into seventy! Wow. The fifty-miler we'd ridden a few weeks ago had been my longest bike to date.
Once again, Cyndi carried me and my bike up into the mountains. This time her husband accompanied us, as well. We departed the commuter lot at six am and returned at five thirty pm. Not just a morning ride. Some Canadian bikers along the way asked me how many were with our group. "Not as many as last time."
The thirty-five miles out was really a pleasant ride. The only thing I didn't enjoy about it was the realization of the reverse route.
There were a lot of interesting creepy crawlies on the ride. Shiny black beetles, thick segmented worms, fat colorful caterpillars. Totally different from any I come across here in town.
Part of the ride seemed more pasture than mountain, complete with grazing cattle.
Several vultures took air as I approached them. I couldn't see why they were there, but I could smell it.
I drank a twenty-ounce Coke at the turn-around. It was truly the nectar of the gods.
My chain fell off once. I had grease not only all over my hands, but subsequently all over my face. Does that make me look more or less professional?
A cycling tan is like a trucker tan, only different.
It's interesting to me how the highs and lows during an intense endurance activity mirror the highs and lows of everyday, only the intensity level of them reflects the level of exertion. I'm frequently emotional during long rides or runs. In the Blue Ridge, these emotional highs and lows are inversely proportional to the hills themselves. Going uphill, I curse myself, my bike, my coaches, the mountains. I vow to quit. Downhill, I could go on forever. This is the best ride of my life.
When I finally finish, six hours or days or years later, everything is different from when I started. The temperature, the air, the mood, me. The physical exhaustion leads to emotional exhaustion.
I'm proud of myself.
Once again, Cyndi carried me and my bike up into the mountains. This time her husband accompanied us, as well. We departed the commuter lot at six am and returned at five thirty pm. Not just a morning ride. Some Canadian bikers along the way asked me how many were with our group. "Not as many as last time."
The thirty-five miles out was really a pleasant ride. The only thing I didn't enjoy about it was the realization of the reverse route.
There were a lot of interesting creepy crawlies on the ride. Shiny black beetles, thick segmented worms, fat colorful caterpillars. Totally different from any I come across here in town.
Part of the ride seemed more pasture than mountain, complete with grazing cattle.
Several vultures took air as I approached them. I couldn't see why they were there, but I could smell it.
I drank a twenty-ounce Coke at the turn-around. It was truly the nectar of the gods.
My chain fell off once. I had grease not only all over my hands, but subsequently all over my face. Does that make me look more or less professional?
A cycling tan is like a trucker tan, only different.
It's interesting to me how the highs and lows during an intense endurance activity mirror the highs and lows of everyday, only the intensity level of them reflects the level of exertion. I'm frequently emotional during long rides or runs. In the Blue Ridge, these emotional highs and lows are inversely proportional to the hills themselves. Going uphill, I curse myself, my bike, my coaches, the mountains. I vow to quit. Downhill, I could go on forever. This is the best ride of my life.
When I finally finish, six hours or days or years later, everything is different from when I started. The temperature, the air, the mood, me. The physical exhaustion leads to emotional exhaustion.
I'm proud of myself.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Swimming!
I swam two miles today.
Farthest swim distance ever.
I joined the JCC today, bringing my workout bag into the membership office with me. That's how much I was looking forward to this swim.
In the interest of full disclosure, my family belonged to the JCC when I was small, and I actually swam on their team for two summers back when they had only one pool. My mom taught water aerobics there, as well. They let anyone join the team. I never got out of the "novice" category in anything but backstroke, and I was used to bringing up the rear in any heat.
So, the facility looks really different...
I loved my swim! As many "issues" as I have with the swim portion of the tri, they all surface in race situations, or occasionally when I'm swimming in a crowded lane and start thinking about race situations. Swimming in the Smith Mountain Lake Sprint Tri last Saturday was my first swim in over a month, so I'm sure that added to my unease.
But today, I spent around seventy minutes swimming up and back and up and back, just thinking some and counting a lot. It was totally relaxing.
I was so pleased with my swim today, I'm on that high that comes after a first race mixed with the commitment of New Year's Day.
Or, you know, when you join a new gym.
Farthest swim distance ever.
I joined the JCC today, bringing my workout bag into the membership office with me. That's how much I was looking forward to this swim.
In the interest of full disclosure, my family belonged to the JCC when I was small, and I actually swam on their team for two summers back when they had only one pool. My mom taught water aerobics there, as well. They let anyone join the team. I never got out of the "novice" category in anything but backstroke, and I was used to bringing up the rear in any heat.
So, the facility looks really different...
I loved my swim! As many "issues" as I have with the swim portion of the tri, they all surface in race situations, or occasionally when I'm swimming in a crowded lane and start thinking about race situations. Swimming in the Smith Mountain Lake Sprint Tri last Saturday was my first swim in over a month, so I'm sure that added to my unease.
But today, I spent around seventy minutes swimming up and back and up and back, just thinking some and counting a lot. It was totally relaxing.
I was so pleased with my swim today, I'm on that high that comes after a first race mixed with the commitment of New Year's Day.
Or, you know, when you join a new gym.
Monday, May 07, 2007
Smith Mountain Lake Triathlon
Context
Haven't participated in a tri since October 15, so I was ready to kick off the season. Felt very prepared since I'm training for much longer distances.
Location
Smith Mountain lake is beautiful, and our accomodations, graciously provided by my TRIgirl little sister Jennifer and her family, were fantastic.
Nutrition and Hydration
During and right before the race, I enjoyed Clif Shot Bloks, Kashi bars, oatmeal, water, and Gatorade. The evening before the race brought fresh red snapper with coconut macadamia crust and a spicy pineapple salsa. The Strebel's postrace cookout was divine--especially the deviled eggs! The margaritas were delicious...
Swim
My first swim in a wetsuit, although not my first open water experience. I've completed two Sandmans and one Naylor's Beach, so the lake water was quite calm and inviting in comparison to the Atlantic Ocean and the Rappahannock River. Even the wetsuit provides warmth and flotation. That being said, I still experienced my traditional shallow breathing, not-putting-my-head-under-the-water breaststroking. Totally inefficient. Also quite frustrating, because although I know it's all in my head and I "just need to relax," um, okay. I even think I'll be fine prerace. One day...
Bike
First bike with the aerobottle. What a great invention. Felt pretty good on the bike--rolling hills, no real climbs. Stayed in the large chain ring for the most part. There was a bit of traffic on Smith Mountain Lake Parkway that interfered some--had to hit the brakes to avoid rear-ending a truck at one point.
Run
Standard out-and-back. Sharing the road with not only other runners, but also the last cyclists, which made for a more congested course than I've seen on a tri before. Three water stops, which was really nice for a sprint distance. I felt good here and had no problems with a negative split.
Afterthoughts
1. It is so fun to race as part of a training team. Of course, we have the best jerseys and wetsuits! And we get the name recognition--hearing "Go, TRIgirl!" while wearing a veritable disguise of swim cap, goggles, and wetsuit is very encouraging.
2. Hmmm. This was the first race that had bakery cake at the finish line. I ate a rose.
3. I registered for this race as Athena (first time to ever do so,) which is a category for women weighing over 150 pounds. I thought I may have a shot at an award by doing so, but not among these fast women! There were eight Athena entries, and I finished fifth out of six Athena finishers. I would have been nine out of fifteen had I registered in my age group. My brother thinks the whole Athena/Clydesdale (men over 200 lbs.) is kind of silly, and I kind of agree. But I also think Ironman is kind of silly, and I'm signed up for that, too. Sigh.
4. I like racing.
Haven't participated in a tri since October 15, so I was ready to kick off the season. Felt very prepared since I'm training for much longer distances.
Location
Smith Mountain lake is beautiful, and our accomodations, graciously provided by my TRIgirl little sister Jennifer and her family, were fantastic.
Nutrition and Hydration
During and right before the race, I enjoyed Clif Shot Bloks, Kashi bars, oatmeal, water, and Gatorade. The evening before the race brought fresh red snapper with coconut macadamia crust and a spicy pineapple salsa. The Strebel's postrace cookout was divine--especially the deviled eggs! The margaritas were delicious...
Swim
My first swim in a wetsuit, although not my first open water experience. I've completed two Sandmans and one Naylor's Beach, so the lake water was quite calm and inviting in comparison to the Atlantic Ocean and the Rappahannock River. Even the wetsuit provides warmth and flotation. That being said, I still experienced my traditional shallow breathing, not-putting-my-head-under-the-water breaststroking. Totally inefficient. Also quite frustrating, because although I know it's all in my head and I "just need to relax," um, okay. I even think I'll be fine prerace. One day...
Bike
First bike with the aerobottle. What a great invention. Felt pretty good on the bike--rolling hills, no real climbs. Stayed in the large chain ring for the most part. There was a bit of traffic on Smith Mountain Lake Parkway that interfered some--had to hit the brakes to avoid rear-ending a truck at one point.
Run
Standard out-and-back. Sharing the road with not only other runners, but also the last cyclists, which made for a more congested course than I've seen on a tri before. Three water stops, which was really nice for a sprint distance. I felt good here and had no problems with a negative split.
Afterthoughts
1. It is so fun to race as part of a training team. Of course, we have the best jerseys and wetsuits! And we get the name recognition--hearing "Go, TRIgirl!" while wearing a veritable disguise of swim cap, goggles, and wetsuit is very encouraging.
2. Hmmm. This was the first race that had bakery cake at the finish line. I ate a rose.
3. I registered for this race as Athena (first time to ever do so,) which is a category for women weighing over 150 pounds. I thought I may have a shot at an award by doing so, but not among these fast women! There were eight Athena entries, and I finished fifth out of six Athena finishers. I would have been nine out of fifteen had I registered in my age group. My brother thinks the whole Athena/Clydesdale (men over 200 lbs.) is kind of silly, and I kind of agree. But I also think Ironman is kind of silly, and I'm signed up for that, too. Sigh.
4. I like racing.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Workouts, Burger King Style
Not eating fast food, and not necessarily working out fast, but doing the workouts my way.
From the very inception of TRIgirl (and as with Kim's TriMoms before that,) Grandison has practiced and preached fitting training into our often already busy lives. As a women and a mother (okay, as a human being,) she understands that we all have different family- and work-related issues that we have to work our training around. TRIgirl schedules are very sensitive and accomodating to that reality.
I've always taken that part of the schedule seriously, although I do like to point out to Blake or Ed or whomever that "it's MY workout!" particularly if a coach is suggesting that I do something difficult. Mostly it's just rhetoric--I complain while smiling, and while actually doing the workout.
The past couple of weeks I've found myself really having to change my training schedule for health reasons. I've been under doctor's orders not to swim for almost a month now, and I've gone back and forth between relief at having a valid excuse to frustration at not being able to participate in a third of my tri training. The past couple of weeks I've also skipped a number of strength training sessions in favor of an extra two hours of sleep. I'm trying to listen to my body so I can make a faster recovery from what seems to be a never-ending ear infection.
I just read a couple of other TRIgirl blogs in which the girls referred to skipped workouts and, guiltily, felt a little better that I wasn't alone. So, less guilty about missing my own workout, but more guilty about being glad someone else did, too. Hmmm.
Sometimes the workout customizations can be funny, intentional or not.
Jonah saw me running Thursday morning in the Near West End, and again that afternoon at West Creek. I had to explain that I had switched Tuesday and Thursday's schedules and divided the resulting run in two...
...and I didn't notice until Melissa pointed it out, but overachiever Cyndi is going to run for twelve hours on Saturday while the rest of us complete twelve miles.
She'd like fries with that.
From the very inception of TRIgirl (and as with Kim's TriMoms before that,) Grandison has practiced and preached fitting training into our often already busy lives. As a women and a mother (okay, as a human being,) she understands that we all have different family- and work-related issues that we have to work our training around. TRIgirl schedules are very sensitive and accomodating to that reality.
I've always taken that part of the schedule seriously, although I do like to point out to Blake or Ed or whomever that "it's MY workout!" particularly if a coach is suggesting that I do something difficult. Mostly it's just rhetoric--I complain while smiling, and while actually doing the workout.
The past couple of weeks I've found myself really having to change my training schedule for health reasons. I've been under doctor's orders not to swim for almost a month now, and I've gone back and forth between relief at having a valid excuse to frustration at not being able to participate in a third of my tri training. The past couple of weeks I've also skipped a number of strength training sessions in favor of an extra two hours of sleep. I'm trying to listen to my body so I can make a faster recovery from what seems to be a never-ending ear infection.
I just read a couple of other TRIgirl blogs in which the girls referred to skipped workouts and, guiltily, felt a little better that I wasn't alone. So, less guilty about missing my own workout, but more guilty about being glad someone else did, too. Hmmm.
Sometimes the workout customizations can be funny, intentional or not.
Jonah saw me running Thursday morning in the Near West End, and again that afternoon at West Creek. I had to explain that I had switched Tuesday and Thursday's schedules and divided the resulting run in two...
...and I didn't notice until Melissa pointed it out, but overachiever Cyndi is going to run for twelve hours on Saturday while the rest of us complete twelve miles.
She'd like fries with that.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Blue Ridge Parkway 50-Miler
Wow!
This was the first time I ever rode farther than about forty miles.
Wow!
This was the hilliest course I have ever ridden.
Wow!
This was the first time I'd gotten up at 5 am on a Saturday all year...
The best part of a hard workout is that I can bitch about it during and exaggerate about it afterwards. No matter how hard it seems at the time, when it is over, I will drink the tastiest water of my life, eat the most flavorful food, and sit on the most comfortable... pavement. And a little while after it's all over, I'll be able to imagine working out again some time in the future.
I got up at five, packed half the workout clothes and gear I own, and met the TRIgirls and Maramarc crew at the Gaskins commuter lot. Much to everyone's surprise, I arrived a few minutes BEFORE the slated time of 6 am. I had even stopped at the Sev to pick up one more Gatorade and a ginormous cup of coffee.
Cyndi drove me, Kate O, and our bikes in the midst of the caravan. Most of our conversation heading west is unprintable here, but we sure had a good time. I realized how smart I was to ride with two moms, since they had brought the best snacks! A cyclist cannot live by bars and shot blocks alone, but really enjoys a croissant with Nutella and some honey wheat pretzels.
When we arrived at the parking lot around Mile 14 of the Parkway, several of us discussed how we might pass the time waiting in the cars while everyone else rode...
Coaches Ed and Blake shared a few words of wisdom and some sunscreen, and we were off. As we headed down the mountain, I was surprised at how much of the descent was uphill! When we got to the bottom, I commented that our coaches had lied to us and that this ride was not, in fact, fun at all. Several of the girls disagreed.
As we made our way back up from Mile 0 to Mile 14, the ascent was even steeper than the descent... I've never hung out in the granny gear like that before. I was secretly thankful that I have NOT upgraded to a bike with only two chain rings in the front. When we finally arrived back up to the cars for a rehydration/refueling break, I was pleasantly surprised that we had actually completed over half of our ride. Several of us spread out a serious picnic on Cyndi's tailgate and wondered where the kegs were. I dipped pieces of my energy bar directly into Cyndi's economy size vat of peanut butter, ate half Kate's bag of pretzels, and who knows what else. At this point, it was all better than four-star dining. I commented that our coaches had lied to us and that this ride was not, in fact, fun at all. Several of the girls agreed.
Back up the mountain, heading for the 25 mile marker. I noted, with dismay, that there were only two downhills during this eleven mile portion of the ride. I then noted, with pleasure, that meant the last eleven miles of the whole ride weren't going to be so painful. This section of the ride was by far the hardest for me. My lower back was hurting so badly about halfway through this leg that I actually cried. Mostly just because I could. When I saw Kate T and Anna stopped just ahead of the 25-mile marker, I couldn't get off my bike fast enough. It felt so good just to lie down in the grass on the shoulder for just a minute, and I guess the shot blocks even still tasted okay.
Had the last eleven miles been the entire workout, it would have been one of my favorites ever. Picked up some good speed on the downhills, and felt pretty darn proud of myself for finishing the ride at all. We resumed our tailgate back at the parking lot--about fifteen of us sitting in the middle of the road breaking bread together. I knew I'd picked the best training boyfriend when Bob sat down next to me and offered me half of his Italian sub. That beats trail mix any day!
I think this was the hardest workout I've ever done in my life, and I include my four marathons when I say that.
Actually, that's what I was thinking on Saturday.
Today, I'm remembering what a great ride I had, what a beautiful day it was, and how much fun I had with Cyndi, Kate, Bob, and everyone else. Thank God for my health, my training team, and a sunny April day in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
This was the first time I ever rode farther than about forty miles.
Wow!
This was the hilliest course I have ever ridden.
Wow!
This was the first time I'd gotten up at 5 am on a Saturday all year...
The best part of a hard workout is that I can bitch about it during and exaggerate about it afterwards. No matter how hard it seems at the time, when it is over, I will drink the tastiest water of my life, eat the most flavorful food, and sit on the most comfortable... pavement. And a little while after it's all over, I'll be able to imagine working out again some time in the future.
I got up at five, packed half the workout clothes and gear I own, and met the TRIgirls and Maramarc crew at the Gaskins commuter lot. Much to everyone's surprise, I arrived a few minutes BEFORE the slated time of 6 am. I had even stopped at the Sev to pick up one more Gatorade and a ginormous cup of coffee.
Cyndi drove me, Kate O, and our bikes in the midst of the caravan. Most of our conversation heading west is unprintable here, but we sure had a good time. I realized how smart I was to ride with two moms, since they had brought the best snacks! A cyclist cannot live by bars and shot blocks alone, but really enjoys a croissant with Nutella and some honey wheat pretzels.
When we arrived at the parking lot around Mile 14 of the Parkway, several of us discussed how we might pass the time waiting in the cars while everyone else rode...
Coaches Ed and Blake shared a few words of wisdom and some sunscreen, and we were off. As we headed down the mountain, I was surprised at how much of the descent was uphill! When we got to the bottom, I commented that our coaches had lied to us and that this ride was not, in fact, fun at all. Several of the girls disagreed.
As we made our way back up from Mile 0 to Mile 14, the ascent was even steeper than the descent... I've never hung out in the granny gear like that before. I was secretly thankful that I have NOT upgraded to a bike with only two chain rings in the front. When we finally arrived back up to the cars for a rehydration/refueling break, I was pleasantly surprised that we had actually completed over half of our ride. Several of us spread out a serious picnic on Cyndi's tailgate and wondered where the kegs were. I dipped pieces of my energy bar directly into Cyndi's economy size vat of peanut butter, ate half Kate's bag of pretzels, and who knows what else. At this point, it was all better than four-star dining. I commented that our coaches had lied to us and that this ride was not, in fact, fun at all. Several of the girls agreed.
Back up the mountain, heading for the 25 mile marker. I noted, with dismay, that there were only two downhills during this eleven mile portion of the ride. I then noted, with pleasure, that meant the last eleven miles of the whole ride weren't going to be so painful. This section of the ride was by far the hardest for me. My lower back was hurting so badly about halfway through this leg that I actually cried. Mostly just because I could. When I saw Kate T and Anna stopped just ahead of the 25-mile marker, I couldn't get off my bike fast enough. It felt so good just to lie down in the grass on the shoulder for just a minute, and I guess the shot blocks even still tasted okay.
Had the last eleven miles been the entire workout, it would have been one of my favorites ever. Picked up some good speed on the downhills, and felt pretty darn proud of myself for finishing the ride at all. We resumed our tailgate back at the parking lot--about fifteen of us sitting in the middle of the road breaking bread together. I knew I'd picked the best training boyfriend when Bob sat down next to me and offered me half of his Italian sub. That beats trail mix any day!
I think this was the hardest workout I've ever done in my life, and I include my four marathons when I say that.
Actually, that's what I was thinking on Saturday.
Today, I'm remembering what a great ride I had, what a beautiful day it was, and how much fun I had with Cyndi, Kate, Bob, and everyone else. Thank God for my health, my training team, and a sunny April day in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Speed Workout
I had never done any speed work before in my life until TRIgirls joined forces with Maramarc back in December. I don't love doing repeats, but I can see their effectiveness reflected in my race times.
Thursday brought us ten of these half-mile lovelies.
Based on my previous timed mile of about 7:30, Mark has assigned me a target half-mile time of 3:40. I didn't hit it AT ALL on Thursday, but I was pretty pleased with my consistency.
HM 1--4:12 (I counted it as warm-up)
HM 2--3:52
HM 3--3:52
HM 4--3:56
HM 5--3:54
HM 6--3:55
HM 7--3:58
HM 8--4:01
HM 9--3:58
HM 10-3:58
SanDee ran the first four repeats (her first ever!) and after that, she would run, jog, and/or walk around and run me up the hill on the Vita Course for each of my remaining repeats. It was a true blessing--I really needed the "encouragement."
Thursday brought us ten of these half-mile lovelies.
Based on my previous timed mile of about 7:30, Mark has assigned me a target half-mile time of 3:40. I didn't hit it AT ALL on Thursday, but I was pretty pleased with my consistency.
HM 1--4:12 (I counted it as warm-up)
HM 2--3:52
HM 3--3:52
HM 4--3:56
HM 5--3:54
HM 6--3:55
HM 7--3:58
HM 8--4:01
HM 9--3:58
HM 10-3:58
SanDee ran the first four repeats (her first ever!) and after that, she would run, jog, and/or walk around and run me up the hill on the Vita Course for each of my remaining repeats. It was a true blessing--I really needed the "encouragement."
Belated Posts
Okay, so I'm the last to say it, and now it's repetitive, but it really is hard to train AND blog about training. Oh yeah, and work, and be a human being...
So, here's the update.
Work: Still plugging along at VCU and Hondo's. This is the last week of classes, so I'm prepping for that transition period that comes at the end of every semester--being super-busy for a couple of weeks, then knowing that I'm going to have a small crisis when I DON'T have to go to school--that feeling of having forgotten or lost something important. I am teaching one summer class at VCU, and Joe has offered me two classes at UR in the fall already. I was seriously considering finding a fulltime job at the end of this semester, but now I'm thinking that I may just keep the adjunct-waitress schedule through Ironman. I won't make my millions, but I will have some flexibility in scheduling that is great for the long hours of training.
Health: My body finally fell apart at thirty-two. I have been to the doctor more in the past three months than in the past five years. In between minor girl procedures, I'm suffering with the world's longest lasting ear infection. I haven't been in the pool for over three weeks, and this is not going to be the last interruption in my swim training this summer.
Attitude: We are FINALLY experiencing more seasonable temperatures. I'm always in a better mood when I can open my windows!
Training: Aside from the aforementioned swimming hiatus, I've been successfully completing all my workouts. I have skimped a couple of times on weight training, but I will say that it has usually been to get in a couple more hours of much-needed sleep. I've been trying to focus on listening more to my body on the rest side of things... I'm feeling pretty strong on the bike and run workouts, and actually was very proud of my workouts last week, which were our toughest to date. Thursday's run was TEN half-mile repeats (most done before was six,) and Saturday's fifty-mile ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway was not only the farthest I'd ever biked, it was also the hilliest.
So, here's the update.
Work: Still plugging along at VCU and Hondo's. This is the last week of classes, so I'm prepping for that transition period that comes at the end of every semester--being super-busy for a couple of weeks, then knowing that I'm going to have a small crisis when I DON'T have to go to school--that feeling of having forgotten or lost something important. I am teaching one summer class at VCU, and Joe has offered me two classes at UR in the fall already. I was seriously considering finding a fulltime job at the end of this semester, but now I'm thinking that I may just keep the adjunct-waitress schedule through Ironman. I won't make my millions, but I will have some flexibility in scheduling that is great for the long hours of training.
Health: My body finally fell apart at thirty-two. I have been to the doctor more in the past three months than in the past five years. In between minor girl procedures, I'm suffering with the world's longest lasting ear infection. I haven't been in the pool for over three weeks, and this is not going to be the last interruption in my swim training this summer.
Attitude: We are FINALLY experiencing more seasonable temperatures. I'm always in a better mood when I can open my windows!
Training: Aside from the aforementioned swimming hiatus, I've been successfully completing all my workouts. I have skimped a couple of times on weight training, but I will say that it has usually been to get in a couple more hours of much-needed sleep. I've been trying to focus on listening more to my body on the rest side of things... I'm feeling pretty strong on the bike and run workouts, and actually was very proud of my workouts last week, which were our toughest to date. Thursday's run was TEN half-mile repeats (most done before was six,) and Saturday's fifty-mile ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway was not only the farthest I'd ever biked, it was also the hilliest.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Monument Avenue 10K Race Report
The Monument Avenue 10K is a special race to me. It was the first race I ever ran, in 2004, which is either three years ago or a lifetime ago, depending on how you look at it. I had just started running, thanks to some inspiration from my brother Dyron and the autobiography of Dick Traum, and was ready for my first run with thousands of other people, water stops, and a big clock.
This year, I started in Wave E, for people with predicted finish times of :51 to :54. Perhaps a bit ambitious, but I've been training! My previous times for this race have fluctuated quite a bit.
2004--1:03:59
2005--56:33
2006--1:06:34
Mostly, they reflect my weight gain last year (and it was hot!) but it's also interesting how any particular factors can influence one's time on race day.
I was glad to see Anna join my in the E group--we trained together a lot last season, but I haven't seen her much over the winter. Just as the C wave took off, I ducked out of the corral for a last-minute pee break down a side street. It was so totally worth it. Our gun when off at 8:44, fourteen minutes after the official race start, and we took off!
I was really proud of my pacing at the Shamrock 8K a couple of weeks ago, and tried to do the same thing here--not start too fast, but at the same time, not too slow, which I think I may have done a few times in the past. I had just read two articles in the current issue of Runner's World that were applicable here--one on starting off a little faster in a 5K, and the other on what the elites think to themselves during a race.
I generally think about when I'm going to throw up or if I have to pee (not this time!) or how far to the next water stop... I added in some "I think I can, I think I can, I know I can!" as suggested by someone much faster than I quoted in RW. I knew I was on track to PR, so I imagined seeing my sister at the end and telling her--actually, more like having her catch me first, or something! I thought about the first-time runners, I thought about Ironman, but only a little, because that thought hurt! I thought "faster, stronger"--another ripoff from RW.
In no particular order, here are the highlights of this year's race.
***A gorgeous spring day in Richmond.
***Driving to the start with my very special friends Ashley and Lauren and my newfound friend and TRIgirl little sister Jennifer.
***Meeting up with, cheering for and beeing cheered for by, and just generally loving, over thirty TRIgirls before, during, and after the race.
***Wearing my TRIgirl jersey--it is so cool to be part of such a great team!
***Getting caught up in the excitement with over 25,000 participants.
***Seeing my sweet, sweet sister Shannon, who, unable to run due to blisters and funny legs, held some gear for us.
***Seeing my dad, waiting for my mom, at the finish. I love that my whole family participates in races together.
***Cheering first-time racer Kay to the finish.
***Post-race Mexican and margaritas with TRIgirls Jennifer, Cathy, and Kay.
***Getting my PR! 54:09.
PS My pacing was great again! First 5K--27:04, second 5K--27:05! "That is consistent if I have ever heard it."--the Beeber
This year, I started in Wave E, for people with predicted finish times of :51 to :54. Perhaps a bit ambitious, but I've been training! My previous times for this race have fluctuated quite a bit.
2004--1:03:59
2005--56:33
2006--1:06:34
Mostly, they reflect my weight gain last year (and it was hot!) but it's also interesting how any particular factors can influence one's time on race day.
I was glad to see Anna join my in the E group--we trained together a lot last season, but I haven't seen her much over the winter. Just as the C wave took off, I ducked out of the corral for a last-minute pee break down a side street. It was so totally worth it. Our gun when off at 8:44, fourteen minutes after the official race start, and we took off!
I was really proud of my pacing at the Shamrock 8K a couple of weeks ago, and tried to do the same thing here--not start too fast, but at the same time, not too slow, which I think I may have done a few times in the past. I had just read two articles in the current issue of Runner's World that were applicable here--one on starting off a little faster in a 5K, and the other on what the elites think to themselves during a race.
I generally think about when I'm going to throw up or if I have to pee (not this time!) or how far to the next water stop... I added in some "I think I can, I think I can, I know I can!" as suggested by someone much faster than I quoted in RW. I knew I was on track to PR, so I imagined seeing my sister at the end and telling her--actually, more like having her catch me first, or something! I thought about the first-time runners, I thought about Ironman, but only a little, because that thought hurt! I thought "faster, stronger"--another ripoff from RW.
In no particular order, here are the highlights of this year's race.
***A gorgeous spring day in Richmond.
***Driving to the start with my very special friends Ashley and Lauren and my newfound friend and TRIgirl little sister Jennifer.
***Meeting up with, cheering for and beeing cheered for by, and just generally loving, over thirty TRIgirls before, during, and after the race.
***Wearing my TRIgirl jersey--it is so cool to be part of such a great team!
***Getting caught up in the excitement with over 25,000 participants.
***Seeing my sweet, sweet sister Shannon, who, unable to run due to blisters and funny legs, held some gear for us.
***Seeing my dad, waiting for my mom, at the finish. I love that my whole family participates in races together.
***Cheering first-time racer Kay to the finish.
***Post-race Mexican and margaritas with TRIgirls Jennifer, Cathy, and Kay.
***Getting my PR! 54:09.
PS My pacing was great again! First 5K--27:04, second 5K--27:05! "That is consistent if I have ever heard it."--the Beeber
Friday, March 23, 2007
Input, Output, and Honesty
While I haven't posted in a while, I have managed to read other TRIgirls blogs here and there, and I've been thinking baout Renee's honesty, Deanna's nutrition, and Cyndi's battle with the party demons, and how there is so much overlap in what we all experience in and out of training.
I train a lot.
I eat more.
More calories in that calories out equals weight gain. I know this. I've been a member of Weight Watchers for about five years. I achieved Lifetime status a couple of years ago when I hit my goal weight, which I'm currently over by about fifteen pounds. The thing is nutrition and "dieting" is like training and a whole lot of other things in life.
Proper Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance. The Seven Ps.
I need to follow my workout schedule. I need to watch my intake, counting Points or whatever. I need to prepare to make these things easier for me--packing my swim stuff or running shoes (in my super-cute new TRIgirl duffel) to have for when opportunity strikes--the same way I always had a toothbrush and a change of clothes with me when I went out in my college years (and, okay, since then, too!) Bringing a sandwich and a piece of fruit with me to work, so I have something to munch on in lieu of the ten desserts a purveyor brought for us to sample.
That way, when an occasion arises when I really don't have the energy for a workout or there's a schedule conflict with an event I really want to attend or life presents me with the perfect dessert (or bag of kettle chips, as the case may be,) I can skip a workout or veer off my nutrition plan without regret.
It makes me cringe to hear people, and usually they are women, say, "I was bad," followed by a description of something they ate. As my WW leader points out, nobody ever got fat by eating a piece of cheesecake. The same goes for training. When being ribbed about missing a cycling class a couple of weeks ago, I replied, "You're right. I probably can't finish Eagleman now."
Point being that these "bad" moments are exceptions. If I ate a steady diet of cookies, hadn't biked in two months, and smoked a pack a day, it would be a different story. If I felt the need to report that "I was good" because I ate a serving of vegetables, I'd start worrying. So, as long as I can remember the last creme brulee, skipped workout, and Camel Special Light in my life, and as long as I can say with certainty that it was the exception, I will be honest about its place in my life. My goal is to relish the small indulgences because they are, indeed, indulgences.
I train a lot.
I eat more.
More calories in that calories out equals weight gain. I know this. I've been a member of Weight Watchers for about five years. I achieved Lifetime status a couple of years ago when I hit my goal weight, which I'm currently over by about fifteen pounds. The thing is nutrition and "dieting" is like training and a whole lot of other things in life.
Proper Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance. The Seven Ps.
I need to follow my workout schedule. I need to watch my intake, counting Points or whatever. I need to prepare to make these things easier for me--packing my swim stuff or running shoes (in my super-cute new TRIgirl duffel) to have for when opportunity strikes--the same way I always had a toothbrush and a change of clothes with me when I went out in my college years (and, okay, since then, too!) Bringing a sandwich and a piece of fruit with me to work, so I have something to munch on in lieu of the ten desserts a purveyor brought for us to sample.
That way, when an occasion arises when I really don't have the energy for a workout or there's a schedule conflict with an event I really want to attend or life presents me with the perfect dessert (or bag of kettle chips, as the case may be,) I can skip a workout or veer off my nutrition plan without regret.
It makes me cringe to hear people, and usually they are women, say, "I was bad," followed by a description of something they ate. As my WW leader points out, nobody ever got fat by eating a piece of cheesecake. The same goes for training. When being ribbed about missing a cycling class a couple of weeks ago, I replied, "You're right. I probably can't finish Eagleman now."
Point being that these "bad" moments are exceptions. If I ate a steady diet of cookies, hadn't biked in two months, and smoked a pack a day, it would be a different story. If I felt the need to report that "I was good" because I ate a serving of vegetables, I'd start worrying. So, as long as I can remember the last creme brulee, skipped workout, and Camel Special Light in my life, and as long as I can say with certainty that it was the exception, I will be honest about its place in my life. My goal is to relish the small indulgences because they are, indeed, indulgences.
Shamrock 8K Race Report
My first 8K ever. When I mentioned this to some people who don't train with me, I got a lot of encouraging comments about pacing myself, working up to that distance, etc. Funny since my races have all been much longer than that recently. However, there are so many little lessons in returning to a short distance and enjoying the first race of the season...
1. the value of a PR--it has been a long time since I'd PRed in any event, so trying something new can give one a little shot in the arm
2. the value of a race--I hadn't raced since November, so it was kind of exciting to be back in the circuit (especially coming from one who is often teased about the number of races I enter each season)
3. the value of speedwork--thanks to the great coaching from Maramarc and TRIgirl, this is the first time I have ever worked on speed. While I was hoping to be a bit faster than I was, I still ran a faster pace than in any other race I've done.
4. the value of a TRIgirl weekend--Monica graciously opened her beach house to nine TRIgirls, and eleven of us ran in the 8K. Post race, I enjoyed a very relaxing day of eating and expo-shooping with TRIgirls Monica, Kathleen, and Teresa, who was also celebrating her birthday.
One difficult thing about running this time of year is the wild fluctuations in temperature. Today, for example, it is eighty degrees. Race day it was thirty-five and very windy. We even got snow flurries as we drove around post race. Another benefit of shacking up with a bunch of TRIgirls--sharing clothes! Kate O generously lent me a vest, I wore some mismatched gloves that I found in my car, and I'm not sure any of the other runners left the house without a little piece of Teresa's running wardrobe.
Traditionally, I don't wear a watch when I run, so having no idea when I started, here were the clock times I saw running along...
Mile 1--9:01
Mile 2--18:00
Mile 3--26:58
Mile 4--36:02
Finish--44:29
I'll give myself a bonus point for consistent pacing! Ran a touch faster at the beginnning and the end, meriting a chip time of 44:14.
What a great way to end my Spring Break!
1. the value of a PR--it has been a long time since I'd PRed in any event, so trying something new can give one a little shot in the arm
2. the value of a race--I hadn't raced since November, so it was kind of exciting to be back in the circuit (especially coming from one who is often teased about the number of races I enter each season)
3. the value of speedwork--thanks to the great coaching from Maramarc and TRIgirl, this is the first time I have ever worked on speed. While I was hoping to be a bit faster than I was, I still ran a faster pace than in any other race I've done.
4. the value of a TRIgirl weekend--Monica graciously opened her beach house to nine TRIgirls, and eleven of us ran in the 8K. Post race, I enjoyed a very relaxing day of eating and expo-shooping with TRIgirls Monica, Kathleen, and Teresa, who was also celebrating her birthday.
One difficult thing about running this time of year is the wild fluctuations in temperature. Today, for example, it is eighty degrees. Race day it was thirty-five and very windy. We even got snow flurries as we drove around post race. Another benefit of shacking up with a bunch of TRIgirls--sharing clothes! Kate O generously lent me a vest, I wore some mismatched gloves that I found in my car, and I'm not sure any of the other runners left the house without a little piece of Teresa's running wardrobe.
Traditionally, I don't wear a watch when I run, so having no idea when I started, here were the clock times I saw running along...
Mile 1--9:01
Mile 2--18:00
Mile 3--26:58
Mile 4--36:02
Finish--44:29
I'll give myself a bonus point for consistent pacing! Ran a touch faster at the beginnning and the end, meriting a chip time of 44:14.
What a great way to end my Spring Break!
Spring Break in the Winter
Wow! I really hadn't realized how long it had been since I last posted. You've seen the shirts that say Run, Eat, Sleep, Repeat? Well, add in Bike, Swim, Lift Weights, Wait Tables, Teach Classes, Read Student Writing, and that's where I've been for the past month.
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