Race Day!

I woke up to thunder and lightning at 5:00 this morning. I saw the flashes through the window and the air filled with the sound of rumbling. Uh, oh. Not a good start to a triathlon race day.

We are trying to finish wheat harvest so a rain delay would set us back some. We didn't get much more than a heavy sprinkle but that will keep the combines out of the field for a few hours today. On the other hand we need all the moisture we can get. But for a triathlon, with lots of swimmers in the water and out on the open prairie on bikes, lightning is not your friend. After turning on the TV and checking the radar on my laptop I thought we should be alright and the storm would be out of the area by the 7:30 start time.

1st Place 50+ Age Group!!

How did we get so lucky? The air temperature was in the mid 60s, the wind was almost non-existent, and the clouds stayed around long enough to keep us cool. It doesn't get more perfect than that!

I arrived in plenty of time to stake out my transition spot at the end of a rack. For some reason they set the racks up on the parking lot this year. The rocks and gravel were not going to be fun to run through from the pool. I tried to pick a spot as close to the grass as I could then spent some time kicking rocks out of the way.

Casey A. was there and Yolanda R. was part of a team. Several other people that I know were setting up their bikes too. When you start to go to more events you meet more and more people. After a while you feel like one big family. The down side is you compete against the same people again and again, but actually you are competing with yourself. Right?

Traci W. and Claudia B. came to watch and cheer us on and I can't tell you how good it feels to hear a familiar voice calling out from the sidelines, giving you encouragement and pulling you through the finish line.

Out of the water without drowning.

Finally it was go time. We lined up on the pool deck in number order and waited our turn to start. This was a serpentine swim with 10 second start intervals. I thought about lowering my expected swim time so I would start sooner, but changed my mind. I didn't want the pressure of being passed by those behind me. I was still passed by some, but I held my own and even passed one swimmer. It wasn't pretty and I struggled a little and had to do the back stroke for a little while. But my back stroke is almost as fast as my free style so it really wasn't a loss.

When we got to the end it was all I could do to hoist myself up out of the water and onto the deck. My arms felt like jelly and I was afraid I would fall back into the water. But I made it and headed for the transition area. Claudia, bless her heart, handed me my glasses (I had forgotten to take them off before going to the pool!) and I tip toed to my bike. No rocks were going to slow me down! I know putting on socks takes a few more seconds but I'm not quite to the point of going without. By the time I left on my bike I was ahead of last years race by almost a minute. Yessssss.

Headed out on the ride.

What can I say about the bike ride. My Garmin said the wind speed was "0". I believe it! At least for the first half. I felt a slight breeze on the ride back but not enough to affect my speed. I felt like I was really flying! I was pushing up most of the hills and really pumping on the way down. I even passed a few people! But some of the fast guys that didn't turn in swim times or signed up late whizzed by me like I was standing still. Over all, I was pleased and I knew I was faster then last year by a little bit. I kept looking at my overall time and thinking "If I can get back to transition before 1:00 I can lower my time a little.

The transition from biking to running is difficult for most, awkward for some, and down right ugly for the rest. I usually fall into the last category. But today the transition didn't feel too bad. I was able to run from the start and maintain pace for quite a distance. I still had to walk from time to time but I tried to keep near my goal pace of 11:30. Don't laugh, that's about all I can manage on a regular run let alone at the end of a triathlon. I sucked down some power gel before the water stop and that seemed to help. It's always interesting to run around the zoo because you never know what you are going to see. Or hear in this case. As we ran by the lion enclosure the big cat was cheering us on with his roar. How cool is that!

On the last stretch to the finish line I looked at my watch. Wow! I was really going to lower my time from last year quite a bit. I tried to pump harder but that just made me tighten up. So I tried to relax and let it flow and run smooth and easy to the finish. Easier said then done!

Thumbs up!

I've never been to a big race with thousands of people running elbow to elbow so I don't know what it's like to finish in a crowd. But there is something to be said for finishing on your own with no one around you. I could hear Traci and Claudia, but also so many others cheering me to the finish line. That is a feeling that takes all the pain away for a few moments. I more and more realize the importance of being a spectator. I understand why so many family and friends of Boston Marathon runners were crowded at the finish line. God bless each of them for their support for their loved ones and grant them strength as they now fight to recover what was lost.

As I crossed the line I hit my timer button. 1:34:20! I had lowered my time by just over 3 minutes. Just finishing with a smile is winning, but to improve is like adding whipped topping to a fudge sundae. MMMMMM good. After catching my breath I felt fine and even now my legs are not tight or sore. We'll see how I feel in the morning! Last year they didn't have times available until the next Monday but they must have figured out a better system and they had the results within the hour. Incredibly, I finished 1st in the 50+ age group! Yes, there was more than one. They also have my time listed as 1:34 flat. I'll take it. Now I wish I would have ran a few steps more.

Finished and smiling!

Another big race is in the books and I proved that it wasn't a fluke. I can do this and I can get better. I have so many people to thank but I'll just sum it up by saying I have the most wonderful network of friends that provide me with amazing amounts of encouragement and support. My Hubby is proud of me but still thinks I'm crazy. Without strength from God and the gift of a healthy body I would be sitting on the front porch watching this parade of life from the sidelines. I don't want to watch that parade. I want to be in it. Heck, I want to lead that parade! Anyone want to join me!?

The Triathlon Song

Today is a rest day before the Big Pool Triathlon. I'm not scared or nervous like I was last year. Now I know what to expect. And I know what to expect out of myself. I think I'll do fine. I hope to better last years time a little and finish with a thumbs up and a smile. Just finishing is winning!

I didn't train as long as last year but I'm farther ahead in my abilities, especially on the run. This was only an 8 week program and I did miss more workouts then I should have, but I don't regret any part of the past 2 months. I did what I could when I could and that's all I can ask from myself.

The excitement level isn't the same this year either. I'm looking at this as more of just another race instead of a mile stone accomplishment. But it is an accomplishment and I shouldn't lose sight of that fact. Tomorrow I'll be swimming 400 meters, biking 12.5 miles, and the running a 5K. I'm pretty darn proud of that.

But today as I have a little time on my hands, I decided to have some fun. A tune started running through my head so I put some words to it, added a few pictures and put together a short video. So for your enjoyment, I present, "The Triathlon Song".

See you all after the race!

Tri Practice

Last night was another Triathlon Practice put on by the local Recreation Commission. I can't express how much these sessions help with transition training and overall confidence for the upcoming race. The distances were relatively short (125 meter swim, 6 mile bike, 1 mile run) but that's fine with me. Actually, I would love to do this distance once a week just to keep fresh. It's long enough to work your body but short enough to fit into a busy schedule.

I was horrible in transition and I'm not sure why. I fumbled with my watch strap and lost time there. I also discovered that I don't like Gatorade on my bike ride. It was just too sticky sweet. It was suggested that I cut it with water so I will still get the electrolytes but not the heavy syrup taste. I may have to try that.

The temperature as we started this practice was 100 degrees. I'm crazy, not stupid, so I didn't go all out on the run but my bike ride was fine. I've been watching the forecast for Saturday and so far it's favorable with low wind and a break in the extreme heat. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

It's harvest time for our farm so I'm being pulled in multiple directions. Keeping the harvest crew fed and fitting in workouts is a juggling act and I've gotten pretty good at juggling. It also means that my Hubby most likely will not be at the race this year. That's OK. He'll be cheering me on from the field. But it would still be comforting to see him there to catch me at the finish line. I can't believe it's almost race day. Only one more swimming workout before the race so I'll compete with what I've got. I'll finish. The final countdown is here! 3 days till race time!

That's Why!

After wondering what the heck I am doing and doubting myself and my efforts I came up with the real answer this morning and it's the same as it's always been. Because I can.

Yesterday I went for a 5 mile run and really felt pretty good about my effort. I ran the first 2.5 miles at a nice pace and finished the second half at a more leisurely pace. But 5 miles is a long way for me and it took right at one hour. I asked myself what I would be doing if I wasn't out on the road for that hour and a host of little things popped into my head: switching the laundry around, pulling a few weeds in the yard, reading my book, (and the most likely) surfing the net. All of these things I can and did do later in the day so what pressing matter would I be addressing if I skipped my run. Since I'm off for the summer I can honestly say, not a thing. So why not run. I always feel better and like I've accomplished something.

This morning I went for a swim at the Y and as fate would have it I was in a lane next to a man doing therapy in the pool. He would walk sideways, backwards, forwards, then sideways again. I don't know what injury he has but he was moving, slowly, but moving. Then I headed out for a 2 mile run and there were more people on the trail hobbling and limping, struggling with the motion of putting one foot in front of the other. It doesn't take being hit over the head that many times to get the point. I do this because I can, in support of those who can't through donations and race fees for various causes.

I came to the realization that if I am going to need therapy for anything physical I want it to be because I was doing something active. Not because I let my muscles atrophy and my joints stiffen. When I feel aches and pains I want them to be because I pushed hard in a workout, not because I did nothing and let my body decay.

But most of all I want others to see that you can move and be fit and enjoy life at any age and at any level. It's never too late to start and you are never too old to try. I do this because I can and thank God for that privilege. I'll try to remember that when the workouts are hard and I'm covered in sweat.

Why Ask Why

It was about 2 miles into my run when that little voice started to whisper in my ear.  "Why are you doing this? What are you trying to prove? Who are you trying to impress. You're slow and not good at any of this." It's hard not to listen to that voice when you are struggling through a 3 mile run in 90 degree heat.

I started with a 600 meter swim that went alright. I felt more comfortable in the pool and even practiced the lane changes required in a serpentine swim. I'm not sure why I'm struggling when I was able to swim 900 - 1000 meters with ease at the indoor pool. The water in the pool is not heating up very quickly either. The 100 degree days coming up should help that a little.

Then after a slow transition I started on my run. I finally bought a hydration belt and this was my first run with a water bottle on my back. It was hard to get used to the flopping up and down on my back and tightening up the strap just make it press against my stomach and make me feel uggg. I really wasn't doing too bad through the first 1.75 miles. But then that voice started talking to me as I struggled to get a rhythm going on that last mile. I had to walk way too much and didn't feel good at all. The belt pressing against my belly didn't help. I love having the water to squirt on my face and shoulders and the few sips I took were welcome. Something else I'll just have to get used to I guess.

"Why are you doing this, you aren't any good at it." Truer words have never been spoken. I'm not good at any of the disciplines. I'm an OK swimmer, a fair cyclist, and an awful runner. Add it all together and you get a really bad triathlete. As my feet shuffled along I had to really think hard to answer this question. I guess I'll use the standard response. "Because I Can." This is a hard race for me and knowing I can do something even though it's difficult only makes me stronger.

"What are you trying to prove?" I'm trying to prove that last year wasn't a fluke. That I am actually capable of completing this race with a smile and a thumbs up. I also want to prove that just because I'm in my 50s doesn't mean I have to sit on my tush and watch the world go by.

"Who are you trying to impress?" OK, I'll admit it. My ego really enjoys the positive comments directed my way. But as for impressing anyone, well, I know what I do isn't worthy of too much awe. Those who know what this is about are sure not impressed, and those that don't aren't really sure what it takes either. I guess "impress" is not the right word. I would say I'm trying to encourage and inspire others to at least try something out of their comfort zone.

I finished my run with a lot to think about. There are only 5 more hard workouts scheduled before the race and I will try to make the best of each one. The runs are not getting any easier so I'll have to enjoy the swim and ride as best I can and survive the 3 miles leading to the finish line. Why am I doing this? Good question. I'll let you know after the race.

Stop and Smell The... Sunflowers

The road less traveled.

Sometimes we get so wrapped up in our training schedule we forget to look around us. We worry about mileage and time and refueling and pushing ourselves to the limit. But this morning, I took my time on my ride and run and had a little fun along the way.

Yesterday evening the gang at the Holcomb Rec had a Triathlon practice to help participants get ready for their upcoming event. It's a fantastic way to get a feel for transitions and what it will be like on race day. The distances were wonderfully short: 75 meter swim, 4 mile bike, .5 mile run. Just enough to get your feet wet so to speak. I like these practices to work on  my transitions, laying everything out just as I would for a race. It lets me see what I need to organize better and how I can get through with more confidence. It's better to realize you have forgotten something now then on race day.

Turtle Power!

I felt really good throughout and managed a pretty good time. That's not to say I'm fast, but for me the pace was better then expected. No sign of the muscle cramps that plagued me after the bike to run transition last year. I've very thankful for that.

This morning was beautiful and my plan called for a bike/run brick. With barely twelve hours to recuperate I knew I would have to go a little slower. So I decided to take the opportunity to really look around and stop and appreciate the world around me. With my phone in my pocket I set out on my ride.

The first thing I noticed was the sunflowers. They were beautiful and in full bloom. The area has been blessed with a little rain this spring and the native flowers are loving it. The road I was on is lightly traveled and I really enjoyed the downhill stretches. Flying down the hills is one of my favorite things about riding!

The Rocket!

I came across some snakes (thankfully dead) and a few turtles (thankfully alive). I stopped and let one of them cross in front of me on his way to who knows where. He sure took his time about getting across the road. Then I was back at the Zoo and ready for a 3 mile run. I tried not to walk and managed pretty well even after a 10 mile bike ride. But then I noticed the lions out enjoying the day so I stopped and said hello.

A little later I saw the "Rocket" and just had to stop. The Rocket is a piece of playground equipment built in the 1960s when America was caught up in the space race. I haven't climbed up inside since I was a young girl but I remember it was the highlight of any trip to the zoo. What the heck, I'm always up for an adventure.

You know how sometimes the things from your youth that you remember as huge turn out to be actually a little smaller in real life. This was no exception. I barely fit through the openings and struggled to stand upright at the top.  As I stood on the top level I imagined how many thousands of children had stood in the exact same spot. Did they think they were one step closer to the moon? Did they imagine blasting off to unknown worlds? I know I did when I was little.

I'm at the top!

After crawling out of the Rocket and starting on the last leg of my run I realized that this was one of the most enjoyable runs I have ever done. My total time was awful because of my side trips, but the actual time I was running was not a bad pace at all.

I'm not going to miraculously get a lot faster in the next ten days before my race. I know that. I accept that. But I do want to enjoy the experience and finish strong. Training hard is key to accomplishing that goal. But it shouldn't take the place of appreciating all that is around us and the many blessings given to us. I'll push hard when I need to and when I can, but I will also strive to take some time and smell the sunflowers.

Love the downhills!

Thunder and Lightning

Last night was a first for me. I participated in an evening "Glow Run". I also watched lightning all around and wondered what the heck we were doing out there.

A few weeks ago a friend asked me if I would be interested in doing a Glow Run to benefit the local volleyball team. Each player was supposed to line up some runners and pass out flyers to spread the word. What could I say but yes. Her daughter is starting to go to a few runs and I wanted to help her out so I posted the information on a few Facebook pages and hoped for the best.

The race was at 9:00 in the evening so I hoped the temperature would be down. But I didn't know how to eat or go about my day. I ended up just eating normal but a little early in the evening and I actually took a nap mid-afternoon. Of course that could be because I had two grand kids wearing me out all morning. I didn't feel really good or rested and wasn't expecting a lot out of myself. I'm usually in bed by the time I would be finishing this race.

Kate H came to run as did a few of my neighbors. It was a great surprise to see them all there. Some of the really fast young men in the area were there too so it was going to be fun to see the run. The route was three laps around the school and parking area then a lap around the track so I knew I would be seeing them as they passed me by. Usually when you are slow you only see them leaving you at the starting line. The first guys passes me by after one lap. That's humbling.

The temperature at race time was 93 degrees. Not good. And a storm was moving in. Also not good. We started the race and a few streaks of lightning could be seen in the distance. At the end of lap one the lightning was getting closer with flashes every few seconds. I really thought they would stop us after lap two and end the race. I was sort of hoping that would be the case because I was out of gas after two miles.

I had to walk a few jags on mile three but as I neared the end the lightning was getting pretty steady and a lot closer. I tried to kick it in gear to finish as fast as I could but my high gear isn't a lot different from my low so I did the best I could. As I ran the lap around the track to finish I though "this is crazy!" Running in an area where there are metal bleachers and tall light polls in the middle of a lightning storm is not good. I finished, and along with everyone else got in my car and headed home.

Going to bed right after running three miles is not easy so I took a little time to cool down and unwind. The rain hit hard about an hour after the race finished. My body didn't like running at night but that could have just been the heat. All in all it was not my best run. But I'm going to look on the bright side. I didn't get struck by lightning!