Statement Necklaces

I'm feeling a little emotional tonight.... please forgive me, but this is real.

I love training for triathlons.  I do.  But, I never thought it would change my life in the way it has the past two years.  

There are several benefits of training for a triathlon with a team to help you succeed at your goal race, but have you ever thought about the impact of training would have on you personally and professionally?  I think about it a lot -- because I have changed A LOT since I joined TWS and trained for this Ironman.

Fact #1: We have all committed ourselves to achieving a goal.  We all made ourselves vulnerable and put ourselves out there.   We all want to be the best person and athlete we can be.  Given that simple commitment -- we are automatically bonded.  Some more than others. (Just work with me).    

Fact #2:  While we all have one common goal and a significant common interest --- we are all VERY different.  We grew up in different parts of the country, had different childhoods, went to different schools.  Our career paths and professions are different.  Family size and location, marital status, and age -- all different.  Personalities -- while we are all highly motivated, goal driven individuals, we are vastly different.  Some of us are loud (cough, cough), quiet, funny, introvert, extrovert.  Our paths in life are just very different.

Fact #3: While we are not all best friends, we still share the bond (mentioned above) --- and want the best for each other.  We are a support system.  

I believe that the stated facts above place us all in an environment that sets us up all to succeed and improve as much as we want to.   I believe that we are all strong individuals willing to share our information, help each other grow, and also have the cajones to call each other out.  We are ALL STRONG individuals -- and while we may get on each others nerves -- this sets us up with an enormous opportunity for growth. 

I can describe several personal situations this year -- that really have changed me and helped me make some huge improvements in myself and my life.

What I have learned this year -- is that I can continue to improve if I am willing to put myself out there, surround myself with people that don't want to just kiss my ass, but help me be the best Kristen I can be.  

I am a loyal bulldog.  I used to think that a friend should ACCEPT ME and LOVE ME for who I am without question, but after training with my triathlon team I have realized --- a true friend is going to call you out, bring an issue to light, and help you work on it.  

This year... I have gained confidence, got a promotion at work, I went 20, didn't have a panic attack in the hardest swim of my life, taken responsibility for how I say things, completed an Ironman, got a new wardrobe and learned what and how important a statement necklace is, had FUN and smiled the whole time during Ironman -- but most importantly....

I have accepted that its okay not to be perfect.  I have learned that my best is good enough.  That my best is more than good enough, because I quite frankly --- I am awesome.  

Thank you to every single one of you for being you -- because you have ALL influenced me the past two years.  You are all awesome, too --- I hope you know that.  

Visualization: Race Recap

About 6 months ago, Sway asked us to write our race recap for Ironman Florida.  I hadn't read it until she asked us to re-write our race recap last weekend.  You can read about what I thought my race was going to be like back then here.

As I sit here 5 hours, 14 hours, and 4 minutes away from the actual start of the race, I am filled with emotions.  I packed all my gear up, made note cards, made an extensive excel spreadsheet with everything I need so I can check it over and over again.

I got a promotion at work -- so to be honest the past few weeks have been focused on that.  While I kept up my training, my brain was in work mode.  I wasn't feeling well yesterday after a bike and a few hours of working.  I tried to rest the rest of the day.  I woke up this morning still feeling tired, but better.    I gradually found the best way to pack my stuff and I found myself getting emotional when I packed up   a few things, talked to Jason about where he should stand at the finish line, and obviously writing this.

I kinda thought about an Ironman here and there in my life, but I knew after I finished my first half Ironman last year I wanted to do a full Ironman.  After a few days of crying and wondering how much further I could go, I signed up to volunteer for the Florida Ironman.

While I want to kick some serious ass on race day, as I reflect on the past year -- I can't tell you how much has changed for me.  Don't be mad, but I never used to understand "it's all about the journey" when people said that.  This post isn't about that -- so I will stop myself now, but I will write it at some point.   The fact is -- my life has improved significantly in multiple ways during this training.  I am so proud of myself for everything I have accomplished and how hard I have worked this year to make myself a better person, therapist, and athlete.

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Early Friday night, the guys grill up some meat and make the ladies dinner.  We eat as a group, laugh, and have a great time.  We probably take pictures in the crazy socks we wore last year.  Marianne probably makes me take 100 more pictures.   We relax and watch the sunset off our balcony.  Before I know it, it's time to sleep.  I'm glad we had a few nights to sleep in the condo because sometimes it takes me some time to fall asleep in a new environment.  Thank goodness I remembered my pillow, alarm clock, and fan.  Just like home! :)

I wake up Saturday morning and I am feeling good.  I can't believe it's here.  It's RACE day.  It's GO TIME.  Holy shit.  OMG.  I'm nervous.  I'm going to kick ass.  I hope I have a great race.  I hope everyone finishes.

I eat my banana and almond butter, take a few sips of water, and walk around to stimulate the digestive system. ;)  I get ready, grab my bags and head down with Jenny, Mike, and Jason to meet the rest of the team.

We walk to the race start -- laughing as usual.  My Mom meets us at the race start and I have her wait with Trung and the rest of the spectators.  We get body marked, load up our bikes with nutrition, and drop our special needs bags off.

Then.... We walk to the beach.  I am nervous.  Of course I am.  Everyone else is.  I focus on deep breathing.  I focus on visualizing a great swim.   I tell myself positive mantra's: I am a strong, determined person and I am going to kick ass, I have worked my ass off and I am ready, I am a baby not a bad ass. We take 100 pictures.  I'm quiet.  I focus on deep breathing.  I talk a little with Sway, Lorri, and others about the current and where we will stand.  I hug everyone.  I hug my Mom and Jason and I walk down to the beach with Lorri, Sway, Dolan, and Jess.

The national anthem is played and I hold back tears.  I am here.  Look what I have accomplished already.  We walk into the water and its calm.  I start to swim, but there are people everywhere its hard to get into a rhythm at first.  Most of the time my head is out of the water, but I still try to turn my head and find my rhythm.  I get some room and finally getting swimming and I feel great.  My breathing is normal, I am pulling hard, and kicking the way I want.  Once we get to the first marker, it's a little congested, but I kept swimming and made it to the next buoy before I knew it.  I picked up my pace going back to the shore -- I came out of the water in 35 minutes.  I ran across the beach -- felt a little out of breath, but once I got back in the water and started swimming I felt great.  I had some more space and I picked up the pace.  I finished the second lap in 35 minutes.

Swim Time:  1 hour 10 minutes

As I run out of the water, I put my goggles on my head, and start taking my wet suit off.  The wetsuit strippers get my wetsuit off and I run towards the shower.  I make a quick exit from the showers -- didn't want to get too much water in my eyes.  I hear Jason/my Mom and TWS people screaming for me, and I try to smile for once --- but maintain my focus on what I am to do next.

I get into the transition tent, sit down, and the volunteer hands me my bag.  I set my wetsuit down.  I take my goggles, swim cap, and ear plugs off and put to side.  I fix my hair and put my headband on.  I wash/dry my face.  Take a sip of water.  Put sunscreen, my sunglasses and helmet on.  I put sunscreen on my arms and legs.  Put my nutrition in my pockets.  Put my socks and shoes on..... I stand up and put my CHAMOIS cream on.  A LOT OF IT.  I head out of the tent and get my bike from the volunteer.  I get to the mount line, mount my bike, and I am ready to go.

T1: 10 Minutes or LESS.

I get on my bike and my heart rate is a little high, so I keep my cadence down.  I focus on just going forward and getting my heart rate to where it needs to be.  I take two salt sticks as soon as I can.  I focus on taking small frequent sips of my nutrition and begin eating my clif bar around mile 10.  I take little bites and try to space my nutrition out.  I am feeling great on the bike, my legs feel strong, the Zipp's are helping me go faster without as much effort, a lot of nice legal drafting --- I take off like a rocket.  I focus on keeping my head in the ideal position, minimal turning of my head, and aero position at all times.  I skip the special needs station at mile 56, but grab a fresh water at mile 70.  I continue to attack. ha.

I finish the bike in 5 hours and 36 minutes.  A perfect 20mph average pace.  I YELL "I'm GOING 20!!!!!!!"  YESSSSS.

I get into the transition tent.  I take off my helmet, put on my hat.  I take off my cycling shoes, put on my running shoes.  Put on my race belt, re-load with nutrition.  Spray myself with sunscreen and put massive amounts of sports slick all over myself.

T2: 10 minutes or less. 

I start running and feel a little funky which is to be expected -- I start off slow and just focus on keeping on foot in front of the other.  I get to see Jason, my Mom, and the TWS family in one short mile.  YES. After about 15 minutes, I start feeling a grove.  I run as I trained.  I ran a mile, walked 30-60 seconds.  I felt great the whole time -- didn't need my special needs bag at all.  I started to slow down around mile 15, but I focused on my time goal.  I told myself that I have worked hard this whole year and I owe it to myself to leave it all out there.  I push myself.  I remember the times Sway asked me to do more when I thought I couldn't.  I think about everyone else busting their ass to do their best and I push.

I come up to the TWS section on my final mile.  I am all smiles.  I give everyone a high five.  I hold back tears.  I think continue on my last mile of the run.  It's hard to stay composed, but I gotta look good on camera. ;)  I also have to breath. ha.  I can hear the music, the clapping, and the cheering.  As I get to the finishers shoot, I take it slow.   I hear "Kristen Corsi, YOU ARE AN IRONMAN" and I do my best Kristen dance that I am capable of doing.  I hold on to the catcher and find Jason and my Mom.

Total Run Time: 4 hours and 50 minutes.

Total Race Time: 11 hours 56 minutes.  

I walk with Jason and my Mom back up to the TWS spectator area.  I can NOT wait to see the rest of my team and continue to cheer for everyone still on the course.  My adrenaline is flowing and I am tired, but feel great.  I am so proud of myself for finishing this Ironman and for everything I have accomplished.

I drink a protein shake and some snacks as I watch every single one of my teammates finish.  We gather as a team and go with the last teammate to the finishers shoot.  We did it.  We are all IRONMEN and WOMEN.  WE ARE ALL BAD ASSES!

May 18, 2013: Ironman Race Vision

**I wrote this on May 18, 2013, but I haven't posted it until now.


I woke up feeling great and ready to race.  This evil taper is actually good.  My legs were fresh and I was ready to go.  I made sure to cover myself good in sunscreen and sports slick.  The butterflies were in my stomach full force, but I was able to stick to my pre-race nutrition plan without a problem.

Jason and I met everyone downstairs and we headed over to the transition area with the rest of the team.   We had our race numbers written on us and we slowly made our way over towards the beach.

I really felt like I was going to poop my pants or barf, but I knew I was ready.  In roughly 15 hours, I was going to be an Ironman.  I focused on deep breathing and visualizing a successful race.  We took some pictures and I gave Jason a big hug.  I hugged all my teammates and my coach.  I cried a little bit. I have worked so hard to get to this race day.  I was nervous, excited, and proud that I finally get to achieve a goal I have wanted for so long.

I strategized the swim start with Lorri, Sway, and Dolan.  I remember to focus on only the people around me.  I focus on deep breathing.

National anthem is sung.  The pros start.  It was finally our turn.  Our day.  Our time.  We hug and wish each other good luck.

I walk into the water until I can start swimming.  The swim is mostly calm and the water feels cool.  I focus on taking breaths and taking my time the first few minutes until I get into my rhythm.  My breath is good, my form is on, and I am pulling at a strong pace.  I can feel the draft from the people in front of me.  Before I know it I completed my first lap.  I see 38 minutes on my watch and I am very happy.  I lightly jog over to start my second lap.  I start swimming and I feel even stronger and confident.  The lap flies by and before I know it I am out of the water in 1:20.

I jog up, get my wetsuit off, and go under the showers.  I ran up through transition and I was able to see Jason and my sister screaming her head off and taking lots of pictures.  I felt amazing.

I headed into T1 and the volunteers put sunscreen on me, I put some lubrication on, and I ate a gu (I THINK, I don't know my nutrition plan, but I am guessing I will have something!).  A volunteer brings my bike to me and I walk it to the mounting point.

I start pedaling and it felt great to be on my bike.  I was so glad the swim was done and I did it in a great time.  I review my nutrition plan and I set a timer to remind myself to eat, drink, and take salt sticks in a timed manner.  I am so glad I focused on figuring out my nutrition plan during training, because it played a key role in my success.

The first 60 miles flew by and I kept a great pace.  The second half I started to have to use more mental strategies.  I focused on the finish line and remembered all the difficult training days we had.  I knew I could do this.  I just had to keep pedaling.  Once I got to 100 miles, I was so glad I only had 12 miles to go.  I finished the bike in 6:35 keeping a 17mph average.

The energy at the transition area was intense.  It felt good to have so many supporters and volunteers there to help us achieve this goal.  I changed my pants and it felt amazing to put some fresh clothes on.  I couldn't wait to run the first mile and see all the TWS supporters by the condos.  The energy was amazing.  I was emotional and so happy to be on my final leg of the Ironman.  I focused on my nutrition plan and stuck to it to a T.  It was a little hard to eat the gu's, but I did have some broth which tasted amazing.  I stuck to a run 10 minutes, walk 1 minute for the whole run.  I felt amazing and strong.  Jess and I had run the course last year so I knew what to expect.  It was boring and the crowd support wasn't always strong.  I filled my mind with motivational quotes, movies, and thought about getting back to the TWS cheer station and to the FINISH LINE.  I started the second lap and I was still feeling great, but I slowed down some.

The last mile was the best.  I came up to the TWS cheer station and Sway was there.  I wanted her to come with me -- but I knew there were others behind me.  I knew Jason and my sister would be waiting for me at the finishers chute.  I could hear the finish line.  I started crying well before the finishers shoot.  I was about to cross the finish line that I had visualized for so long.

Every difficult strength session, every time I chose to say NO to a cookie, and every time I pushed hard during my training all came together.  I slowed down and did a slow jog through the finishers chute.    And then I heard it.  "Kristen Corsi... YOU ... ARE... AN IRONMAN!!"   I crossed the finish line in 14:50 and I felt great.  I did a little dance and blew kisses to my dad and mom watching back in Ohio.  I leaned on the volunteer that "caught" me.  It felt so good to lean on someone for support after 15 hours of kicking butt.

All I could do was smile and cry happy tears.  My sister and Jason found me and we took some pictures.  I wanted to get back to the TWS spot to cheer everyone else so Jason grabbed my things and we headed back to the TWS spot.

I was on cloud 9.  The adrenaline was flowing.  I was so happy to not only finish, but finish strong.  My nutrition was spot on, I tried my best, and I succeeded.  I had a blast.

I thought.  Shit.  I wish I could do this again next year.  But, I can't.  It's baby making time.  At some point, I will most likely do it again.... because I loved EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!! 

Iron Body, Iron Mind, Iron Spirit

9 days ago I raced Augusta half Ironman and I achieved my goal of 5:30 with a time of 5:29:44.  I will write a full recap later... but I only have 20 minutes and I want to write.

I had difficulty breathing for the first several minutes of the swim (read: panic attack).  I am not afraid of the water and its not the first time this happend... but it was the worst.  I didn't know my time out of the swim, I was very disoriented... I couldn't find my bike rack.  Unusual for me.  

I got on my bike and I just didn't care if I wore myself out.  I pedaled fast.  I thought my time was sub 20, but it ended up being a little over 20mph.  I PR'd my half marathon.  I had no idea what my time was for anything other than the run until a good 20 minutes after when Jason looked up my time.

Awesome.  I achieved my goals.  A little sarcasm there.  My mind was not happy, emotionally... Just not happy despite the time.

I couldn't sleep Sunday after the race.  ........Follow the most exhausting week of my life.  

My brain wasn't functioning.  I wasn't confused -- I was blank and quite frankly, I almost cried one morning when I literally didn't understand something.  NOTHING was in my brain.

Saturday we had to ride 100 miles without drafting.  I ended up riding 80 miles with no one in site -- at least 2+ miles in front of me and 2+ miles behind me.  It was tough.  My head hurt, my feet hurt, my leg hurt and... I wanted to CRY.  IT SUCKED.  I had NO FUN AT ALL.

I am an emotional and sensitive person (no I'm not really a hard ass despite what you may think), but I believe there is a time and a place for it -- and its NOT during a workout.  I am literally yelling at myself on the middle of 192 a VERY boring, flat road with a speed limit of 55mph and semis and cars whipping by me without moving over a lane.  I literally HAD TO YELL AT MYSELF so I wouldn't cry.

I had almost NO control over how I was feeling....similar to how I have zero control whether I get a panic attack or not.  I then stopped at 90 miles to get some OJ and water... and I have to admit I did feel better, but I still didn't forget about how disappointed I was in myself.  

I didn't want to wake up Sunday and run.  I did it, but I hated every step.  I went home almost immediately and went to bed.

I realize at this point that I am PHYSICALLY, MENTALLY, and EMOTIONALLY EXHAUSTED.

...Since I refreshed and got more sleep I have been so emotional.  I can't stop thinking about different scenarios.  Pressure I put on myself.  Workouts I didn't miss (my dedication).  ALL THE COOKIES I DIDN'T EAT.  All the dedication I have had the whole year to drop some weight.  All my friends and teammates accomplishments.  How much Coach Sway and Trung do for us. Funny moments. Milestones.

I can't really explain it... but something just clicked.  In my eyes, I am already an Ironman.  Maybe I will have trouble breathing during the race -- but I will get through it, because it has happened to me several times (and I did it then -- 26 minute swim time with a panic attack, I'll take it!).  Maybe I will meet my time goals, maybe I won't, maybe I will feel amazing, maybe I won't.

But there is one thing I know for certain: I gave all I had, every single day, every single choice.  I have done and will continue to do everything I possibly can to have the best race possible.   And there is definitely something to say about that. 

The fact is I have put SO MUCH PRESSURE on myself for this one day.  This one day that I have worked my ass off for the whole year.

Then I remembered a sign I saw at Augusta...

IRON BODY 

IRON MIND 

IRON SPIRIT

We all have IRON BODIES thanks to Coach Sway.  Be confident to know that you will get through any obstacle you have at Ironman, but also accept the fact that no matter what happens we are ALL IRONMEN (women, whatever).  

We have all made this journey, so let's quit acting crazy, and just continue plugging along, eating right, doing our best at workouts, and embrace the IRON MAN SPIRIT.

In 24 days, I will be an Ironman and so WILL EVERY ONE OF MY TEAMMATES.

Amen.

Ironman Baby

This week... My teammate Jenny posted this: Iron Baby

The past two weeks I have had a wide spectrum of emotions.  I feel crazy, emotional, bipolar, and an addict.  

Last week at track, Consuela dropped a bomb on us that we were running a mile time trial.  I was so angry.  SO ANGRY.  I had just finished a fast/tough 86 mile bike on Saturday, a 19 hilly run on Sunday, a 5:30 AM 3500yard swim AND a hard 20 mile bike/15 minute run on Monday night.  SHE WANTS ME TO WHAT? What the heck.  This is cruel.  

Then... I see so many people going faster than their previous time trial.  I did about the same as the previous time trial.  I was crushed.  I felt like I sucked.  Why is everyone getting faster and I am not?  

Sway walked a lap around the track and tried to talk some sense to me, a therapist session have you.  I then jogged another lap and when I came back I saw her talk to a few other teammates about the same thing I was talking to her about.  Another teammate apologized for not being positive at track practice.

WE ARE ALL GOING CRAZY.  It's NOT just me.  

I then went to lift weights after work.  Someone said something to me that just made me lose it.  I immediately drove to talk to Marianne and Trung.  I cried about some of the stupidest things I have ever shed tears for.  I can laugh about what I was upset about now, but I was shaking I was so upset.  

I can't keep my place clean enough.  I don't spend enough time with Jason.  I'm not getting faster.  I am sick of eating.  WAAAAAH.  While it is funny for me now, I was legitimately upset.  It is a struggle to balance everything else with training for an Ironman.  I am sure everyone can relate to that.  

It took me a few days to get over it.  I kept focusing on everything I WASN'T DOING.  

Then I started thinking about Augusta and Ironman.  I started drooling.  I thought about the river in Augusta, the rolling bike course, and the flat run.  I think about crossing the Ironman finish line.  I started to think about how much I have improved.

And...then just like that my JUICE WAS BACK.  My POSITIVE JUICE.

I had a fast run on Thursday.  I had a great ride on Saturday pulling myself the whole way, battling what Sway said was a "short attention span."  A great run on Sunday.  Instead of focusing on what I wasn't doing right,  I focused on what I was doing right.  When someone is in front of me, I focus on either catching up or keeping the distance between us small.  

I look around and EVERYONE is doing better.  They might not see it (we are all way too hard on ourselves), but they are.  We are day after day working our asses off to balance work, kids (not me... not sure how you parents can do this), cleaning, cooking, eating, training, social life (....ha).  Look at how far we have come.  I am motivated by each and everyone one of you.  

We have the best coach around.  We have the plan, we have the team, we have the support.  We are all going to be Ironmen.  No way we could complete an Ironman without improving SIGNIFICANTLY. Say it until you believe it.  You are better than you were 251 days ago, 2 years ago, and yesterday.  

Now don't let all this positivity fool you -- I STILL FEEL CRAZY AS EVER.  I can't stop thinking about the next time I get to swim, bike, or run (maybe a little less on the run). 

I am drooling and almost FEIGNING for a race.  I am so ready to give birth to this Iron baby.  54 days.  I can HARDLY wait.  

Week 9: Ironman Training

This week was very nice because we had a holiday.  I spent my Labor day...Laboring. ha.

Started the day off with an across the lake (and back) swim.  Total was 2.66 miles, speed for 2.4 (the ironman swim distance) was 1:16.... not too shabby after a 86 mile bike on Saturday and a 19 hilly run on Sunday.  I did my post lake swim ritual: Shower, change, nasal rinse, and nasal spray and then headed out to do a 30 mile bike along Narcoossee.  I stayed in the back for the the first 15 miles... we were only going about 19 and when you are in a pace line the effort is very minimal if you are the 5-6th person back.  When we stopped to take a picture (yes, this is absolutely necessary... for BLOG purposes of course), I asked "can we go faster?"

NooNoo suggested that I pull -- SURE, no problem.  I started pulling about 23mph, there was a tailwind and I felt great.  I pulled for a few miles and then NooNoo came up in front of me and decided to go 26mph.  It was actually easier for me to draft off of him than pull 23mph so I was okay with it.  He wore himself out and then Sway, Napoli and I took turns pulling on the way back.  We ended up doing 30 miles with an average pace of 21mph.  It felt amazing.  I get a "cycling high" comparable to a "runners high" when I have a short bike.  I am ADDICTED.

I haven't been taking naps on the weekend like I did in the beginning of training... I find myself not needing them as much.  I am trying to be productive during the day, however, the lack of nap caught up to me on Monday and I was so sleepy.  I was in bed by 7:45 and sleeping by 8:30.  Amen.

Tuesday we got to do Kenyans at track which was a nice change up and fun!  I felt very strong and picked up the pace.  Jason and I hit the weights Tuesday night and we had a great work out.  I am really getting stronger -- I can tell my control and also the increase in weights.

Wednesday was a fun Master's Swim class.  Jess came and we split a lane.  Always good to have someone faster than you during a work out.  I actually improved my 500 time by 16 seconds (compared to last week) because I didn't want Jess to lap me.  7:52 baby.  Love the speed.

We didn't have VQ and our airport ride got rained out.  I came home and set up my trainer.  I hated it.  Awful.  The end.  I squashed that and decided to ride Thursday.

Tempo Thursday started off great with Jess and Marianne.  We gradually increased our time each mile and I ended up with an average pace of 9:45.  15 seconds per mile faster than last week!  SPEED!

Beautiful sky after the run!

Jess and I met for a ride before the lake swim.  We headed to the airport and kept a great pace.  We kept an average of 19.7mph... which included a few miles of lights.  We maintained 20-24mphs at the airport loop.  On our way back, it looked dark and there was lightening.  Thank the Lord for a little tailwind as we sprinted back to our cars.  Lake swim was cancelled and we went and got some grub.

Friday I woke up and my neck was sore again.  It was really bothering me so I got a message.  It really didn't help much and Brian suggested I might need to see a chiropractor if I don't get better.  I rested and got ready for Saturday.

Saturday we met at Van Fleet Trail.  The plan was to ride solo.  No drafting.  It was a "mental exercise."  I started off a little behind Sway, Brian, and NooNoo -- but Sway got a flat and I didn't see her until the ride was over.  I did the first 30 miles averaging 20mph.  Nicole was behind me for about 28 miles and then Dolan and Lorri caught me at the turn for the extension.  The 10 mile extension was windy, but not too bad.  I am feeling more and more comfortable in the wind.  Went back on trail for a few miles before doing another extension.  Lorri, Dolan, and I were spread out... and once back on the trail I was alone.  Alone for 33 miles.  Let's talk about MENTAL exercise.  HOLY CRAP.  It was so boring.  SO BORING.  I'm not going to sugar coat it.  I passed a few people on a bridge as they were resting and when they got back on their bikes they flew by me -- which got me motivated and I picked up the pace a lot.  This is promising as there will be A LOT of people on the bike course at IMFL.  I am very motivated by other people.  I also turned my bike computer off so I didn't see the distance.

I got back to the car and I was never happier.  I was ready to run -- but my shoes were locked in Sways car.  I did some stretching and then slowly people came back.

Sway ended up having her tire ruined, but Brian and Noonoo fixed it with a spare tire.  Everyone did great.... we all decided we need less pace line and more individual pulling.  After whining, I ran a little over a mile.  My legs felt great.  I felt great.  :)

I headed back home and Marianne and I went to BW3 to watch a little football.  Go BUCKS!

Sunday we only had a 13 mile run planned.  Wow. That felt great.  I PR'd my half marathon by almost 2 minutes.  My time was: 2:10:58.  This feels great because I have been struggling to improve my run speed -- and I am finally getting there.  It's also promising because I kept a 19mph pace on the bike for 93 miles and my legs felt GREAT today.

54 Days!!!! :)

On deck: Triple Brick and Lake Swim next weekend! Yay!

Week 12: Ironman Training

... I haven't updated my blog in a bit and while I know how many DAYS are until Ironman.... seeing WEEK 12.... just makes it seem even closer.

This week was a recovery week of sorts.  We only had to run twice, cycle twice, and swim three times. Monday I woke up and I felt awful.  I was just exhausted.  I had a busy weekend with Jason + my long run on Friday and long ride on Saturday.  I took the day off.  I woke up Tuesday and felt refreshed.

My allergies have been getting worse and worse and I still have some chest congestion... making it hard for me to breath when I am running fast.  This week was much better than last week, because I didn't let my breathing difficulties get to me.  I just tried to stay calm and decreased my pace as needed.  I still got a great workout though! Tuesday nights are fun because I get to pump some iron.  It feels great and I love the different challenge every week.

Wednesday I woke up and headed to Colonial La Fitness... I swam by myself mostly and it was boring.    Ty, our coach at Lake Highland, said the pool would be ready by Friday and I can hardly wait!

Wednesday VQ was a lot of threshold work.  I wasn't sure if it was the extra rest -- but I definitely feel like my threshold number has improved since last session.  I did great and hit all my numbers so I was happy.

Thursday I got to sleep in and I swam after work in the pool.  I decided to skip the lake swim since I was already going to have one open water swim with the Hammerhead Ocean Marathon.  One day of horrible allergies a week is good enough.  ha.

Thursday night Friday morning, I woke up at 3:15am to do the long run for the week along with Marianne, Keith, Jess, Jenny, Lorri and Trung.

None of us felt good.  I wanted to barf 95% of the time.  It was just way too early for me.  It was BLAZING hot even at 4:00AM.  But, we did it.  We also fueled with LOTS OF COFFEE afterwords.

Battle wounds from my run... gotta love sensitive skin and very little sports slick!

I came back after our run to this...  Thank you Coach Sway! My skin thanks you! :)

After work, we headed to Jacksonville Beach for the Hammerhead Ocean Marathon.  Once we got there we got our packets!

Mellow Mushroom dinner to fuel! (Not as good as Winter Park MM!)

We were all so tired from the run this morning -- I almost fell asleep at the table, until we started talking about OHIO STATE and then I perked right up. hahaha.

We woke up late at 6:30, got ready, and headed down to the beach.  It was cloudy, but the sun was rising and it was beautiful.

Group Picture!

Trung was a great Sherpa.  He really took care of all of us... and took great pictures for all of us!

We listened to some instructions and loaded the buses for what seemed like a very LONG trip to the swim start.  The buses dropped us off 2.5 miles South of the Pier.  

We had a little fun before the countdown to start.  I was nervous, but my plan was to focus on my form the whole time.  

I get really anxious initially at open water swims during races.  My respiratory rate is abnormally high and it makes it difficult for me to get in my rhythm.  I stayed calm and let my body adjust and it only took about 300 yards before I found my grove and was back to my normal breathing pattern.  I was very satisfied with this.  At Miami Man, I had to stop and tread water for at least 1-2 minutes.  Going from hyperventilating to staying calm and letting my body adjust is a huge improvement for me.  I noticed a lot of the people swam out -- and I figured it would be best to stay away from the waves.  Initially there were people around me, but we all spread out.  I had a few problems with some zig zaggers -- but eventually I saw two girls on my right that were swimming about my speed.  

The water temperature was perfect.  I felt stinging throughout my body.  I also felt like something went down my shirt at one point.  I tried to focus on my form.  I counted my strokes, I kept saying "1-2-3-PULL", focused on reaching, pulling, and my kick.  It really helped me focus on my form and speed. 

I came up to Jess, who is much faster than me, and stopped to make sure she was alright.  She wore a new tri suit that was way too lose for her..... and needless to say she was a bit uncomfortable.  After I saw Jess, I really didn't see anyone besides the two girls to my right.  No kayakers.  Honestly, I was a little nervous.  One of the girls I was swimming next to slowed down and the other sped up.  I didn't want to stay alone, so I sped up and caught up with the faster girl.  She was a bit of a zig zagger herself, but I focused on keeping myself aligned with the end of the pier.  I think I did a pretty good job.  I finally saw a kayak and felt relieved.  The faster girl took off and I slowed down a bit.  After awhile, I saw another kayaker who told me to go left.  After a few times looking up, I finally saw the orange buoy very CLOSE to the beach.  I tried my best to do a horizontal cut to keep my distance as short as possible, but I was pretty far out.   I swam until a big wave went over me and pulled me back a bit.  I popped up, got my equilibrium, and sprinted to the finish line.  I wasn't sore or tired most of the time.  I lost a little steam at the end, but overall felt great.  

Trung told me I was the first one out from our group and I was excited!  I didn't have my watch on so I am not sure my exact distance, but most people had between a 2.7 and a 2.8 on their watches.  I finished in 1:28! :)

Lorri won her age group and got a cute handmade award!  We cheered everyone as a thunderstorm rolled in.  Once our last teammate finished we ran to our cars!!! It was nasty!

We went to breakfast at the Beach Hut.  It was okay.  Nothing like KEKE's!

Our SHIRTS from the race!

I was hoping that I wouldn't have bad allergies with this swim, but I did.  I have had enough of my allergies and I am going to make an appointment with an allergist.  Lake swims will have to be every other week until I figure out a better solution to my allergies.

I woke up Sunday morning confused at what I was supposed to do.  The past few days have been different then normal weeks so I was thrown off.  It took me a minute to remember what I was doing.  ha.  

I headed to Fort Christmas for our ride and I was feeling okay.  Once I got on the bike, my left leg was really bothering me.  My hamstring was tight and hurting during the long run and I didn't do a good job stretching, so it took awhile to warm up.  I was tired and drained from my allergies, lack of sleep, and lots of activities!   I did about 51 miles with an average pace of 19.3mph.  I am very happy with that especially since I wasn't feeling that great -- and I didn't draft.  

I am getting really excited for the race.  I am really feeling confident in our training -- and I know that once we get a few 100 mile rides, 20 mile run, and two triple bricks we will all be ready.  

I was so proud of all my teammates this weekend.  So many of them have really been working hard on the swim -- and it showed during the event.  :)

75 Days! :) 

Week 15: Ironman Training

Well, another week has come and gone... and I honestly just can't wait until next Saturday.  I look forward to Saturday and Sunday morning work outs.  I never used to be able to pick one sport I liked more, but I finally decided I love cycling the most.  I love being on my bike.

Monday started off with a nice recovery swim.  I had a few days off last week form work and I hadn't been at one of my buildings in a week.  I was so excited to get to work.  Unfortunately, one of my favorite residents and someone I worked with for over 1.5 years passed away.  I was there when it happened.  I was devastated, couldn't think straight -- I was in a fog.  I made it through work -- how, I do not know.  I was exhausted, but I headed to the airport anyway.  I wanted to get on my bike and just ride.  It was raining, lightening, and thundering, but it looked clear to the east.  Heather, Lorri, Day and I debated on what to do.  I suggested heading to Avalon road.  We parked and it was drizzling a little -- but it ended up clearing up and we got a good 27 miles in.  It was so nice to just be out on the bike and riding with my friends.  It wasn't easy though.  I wanted to cry multiple times and I was battling negative thoughts throughout the ride.

Tuesday I woke up and I did not want to go to track.  I felt awful.  I was drained.  I did my best and that was good enough for the day.  I had an eye appointment and got my eyes dilated -- decided to take the morning off since I couldn't see well.  I slept for a few hours.  I woke up and got dressed for work, but I was just emotional exhausted.  I ended up sleeping for four more hours.  In the evening, I went to work out with my trainer for the first time in months -- and it was hard.  I had tears in my eyes twice because I couldn't stop thinking about what happened the day before.

Wednesday morning really wasn't any better.  It was probably the slowest swim I have had in YEARS.  No joke.  I almost cried in the water, but I made it through.  I told myself this was a mental strength exercise and I continued on.

VQ was much better at night -- maybe because work was done for the day, but I was able to hit all my numbers and it felt great.

Thursday morning run was not fun for multiple reasons:  1) Sway showed up = no slacking 2) My legs and back were so tight 3) Went a more "hillier" route 4) Still feeling crappy about what happened Monday.  BUT, I did it.

I have been battling allergies after the Lake Swim, but I really didn't want to cut it out of my training.  I feel open water training is very important.  I swam a little less than 4 laps in 60 minutes.  I immediately got out -- took a shower and used my nasal rinse.

I got to sleep in on Friday, but I still woke up at 5.  I laid in bed until 7 and I had to force myself to get to work.  I was feeling better -- but still not feeling good about being at work.  I was congested, but didn't have the exhausting allergies I have been having after lake swims! Yay!!!  Nasal rinse for the win!  I love rest day.  Just the fact that I can lay in bed until 7 is just awesome.  ha.

Saturday we started at Western Way and road to Van Fleet.  We averaged about 21mph, but stayed between 20-22mph depending on wind and who was pulling.  I believe I was a little dehydrated because I didn't feel 100% and ended with a slight headache.  I dropped my bike off and headed out for a run within 1-2 minutes.  It was hard at first, but once I got going it felt pretty good.  I'm getting used to running after we ride long and I LOVE IT.

I changed my clothes and headed to First Watch for breakfast.  YUM.  Floridian French Toast.

Took a nap and had a healthy family dinner to complete the day.

Sunday ran 13 miles -- mostly with Jess.  We ran 1 mile and walked 30-45 seconds.  When we were running our pace was between 9:45-10:25.  I realized we could do 13 miles in under 2:20 around mile 8 and it helped us to keep our pace and not slow down.  We ended up doing 13 miles at 10:38 min/mile pace.  2:18! :)

Went to breakfast at KeKe's.... and although it is more expensive it is HANDS DOWN BETTER THAN FIRST WATCH!!!!

Final thoughts from this week:

• I finally got my eating back in check and I am re-committed to healthy eating.  I notice SO MUCH difference int he quality of my workouts when I eat great.
• I am blessed to have so many great people in our group.  I can't tell you how many people helped me get through this week and make it through each work out.  Some people I talked to about it.  Some people just helped me focus.  Most of all -- just knowing I have so many different people there for me means a lot.  
• I haven't had a chocolate chip cookie in 34 days.  It's just another challenge I am giving myself, but boy... that chocolate chip ice cream sandwich I will be eating on 11/3/2013 is going to be AMAZING.  

Week 16: Ironman Training

It was recovery week and my family was here -- which was perfect timing.   I did walk at least 15+ miles while they were here at Disney.

Highlight of the week was my mile swim time trial: 28:50.  That felt awesome.

Still struggled some at VQ.  Track was hard.  I skipped my Thursday run and pump and swim on Sunday.

I am slowly gaining my focus back and I definitely need to take more pictures, but my camera is broke!

Better post next week.

Yes YOU Can!

This morning wasn't the fastest run or best run of the season for me, but it was definitely one of most enlightening.  Our conversation was all over the place, but one topic we discussed really got me thinking.  

We all have self-doubt.  It's natural to be scared and nervous when we decide to take a leap of faith and try to achieve a new goal.  

I am 31 and while I am still (and probably will always be) on the path to discovery of how to live the most positive, peaceful and joyful life; but I have learned a lot -- especially about self-doubt and the value of truly believing in yourself -- that you CAN and WILL do anything you want to do.  I won't get into any "Kristen Stories" about my numerous experiences in self-doubt.  I probably hate the saying "It will all work out" just as much as everyone else when its said to make you feel better.  But, let's get this straight people.  YOU CAN DO ANYTHING YOU WANT TO DO.  Say it. Believe it.  

Keys to succeeding:

1. Identifying a goal that YOU WANT TO DO.
2. MAKE A PLAN 
3. Identify areas that need improvement.  Don't ignore them, try to work on them.  If one thing doesn't work, try something else.  Keep trying.  Don't give up.
4. Find a group, mentor, friend that will help you achieve your goal and also work on your weaknesses.  Help others in areas where you have strengths.
5. Work HARD.  Don't give up.  
6. Never LOSE site of your goal.  
7. Treat negative thoughts like the plague.  Get them OUT OUT OUT of your head.  Someone doubting you? Don't worry about it.  (See: Daring Greatly)
8. Remember you CAN'T DO EVERYTHING, but you can DO ANYTHING.  
   
9. BELIEVE IN YOURSELF.

We have all doubts, but we gotta push them out of our minds and believe in ourselves.  103 Days until Ironman. 

Daring Greatly

It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, and comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat. -Theodore Roosevelt

Ironman Training: Weeks 20-17

It's been awhile since I blogged regularly.... I just haven't had the time.  I have been working over time and work has been hectic.  My life has been mostly training, working, eating, and sleeping.

During the few weeks after Rocketman, I got really sick, wasn't eating the best, and had a lot of stress from work.  It is currently 4 weeks into Ironman training and I am finally feeling back into "shape."

Here are a few things that have helped me:

Masters Swim: It is motivating to swim with other people that are faster than you and people that are at your speed or close to your speed.  Getting up early and getting it done has helped me tremendously.

Run/Swim/Bike with people faster than me:  It's something that you don't understand until you do it.  This is how I got really strong on the bike, it's helping me with my swim, AND it helped me get back to where I was with running.

Meal Planning: Going grocery shopping for a few days and making snacks/meals for each day.  Planning ahead ensures I will eat healthy.

Admitting to my weakness: Emotional eating.  I haven't had a cookie in 20 days.  Now, while that did help me -- I won't lie I did substitute for them in one way or another.  But, I am BACK on track (took me awhile!).

Early Nighttime Morning Wake Ups: Although day after day of getting up between 4:45-5:15 six days a week is difficult, it has helped me stay committed to my workouts and check something off my list each morning.  In addition, since I am done with my workouts by 6:45-7 I have time for a strength work out session before work.

Friday Rest Days: I flirted with a Monday rest day.  I also made a rookie mistake of training 14 days without a rest day.  The past two weeks Friday was my rest day.  This made my weekend workouts great.  I had fresh (somewhat) legs.

Re-Committing to Healthy Eating:  In the beginning of the year, I really focused on my eating.  I lost about 10 pounds.  I got faster and I felt better.  I just lost focus.  I haven't been eating as well and I definitely notice it during my workouts.  I have also been having an AWFUL allergy season.  Every time I swim in the lake, I am almost wiped out for a day.  I spoke with Eric at David's, who also suffers from allergies, and he suggested limiting dairy and gluten.  I don't necessarily think I should cut anything out, but it made me realize how my poor food choices were affecting how I was feeling in more ways than one.  Something just clicked and I finally decided to re-commit.  Saturday I ate great --- Sunday I had the best run in months and I felt great.  It was hard, but I felt good.  I also have a goal weight for Ironman.  I have 12 pounds to lose.  We have 110 days.  EVERY day I must be focused.

Mini Weekly Recaps

Week 20:  Less than stellar EVERYTHING.  Mile time trial: 7:48.  Not so bad.

Week 19:  HOLY HILLS.  We went to Clermont and I was NOT prepared to ride 55 miles of hills.  We did Sugar Loaf and I WAS SO GLAD TO BE DONE. Ha.  My back really hurt after that ride. Run was less than stellar the next day due to sore legs.

Week 18:  Week of July 4!  Had a good time at the Watermelon 5K, 27:54 not a PR, but very satisfied given the fact my running hasn't been so great lately.  Road in the rain at the airport, scary at first, but it slowed down and it was really refreshing.  Went on an "adventure" ride with NooNoo, which I will never do again -- including riding on Aloma.  ha.

Week 17: My weekly miles were the most I probably have ever done: 149.  I was tired.  I even swam up to Sway's kayak at the lake and asked her if next week was recovery week.  She wasn't sure, but later told me it was!  This definitely explains my fatigue.  However, my Saturday ride kicked butt.  Held about a 20-21mph for 18 miles at the airport for time and then continued on a great 65 mile bike.  I had the best run post-ride.  Sunday I had the fasted long run I have had in A LONG time... averaging 10:11 per mile.  Thanks to running with Cathy, someone a little faster than me (see above).  Swim highlight: Timed 500 meters 9:27.

A few people made comments to me this weekend... stating that "You are not talking much" and "You are so serious."  DAMN STRAIGHT PEOPLE.  I AM TRAINING FOR AN IRONMAN.  I'm GOING TWENTY or I'm going home.  LET'S DO THIS.  110 DAYS.

CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

I once was asked by a co-worker.... "You work out so much, why aren't you smaller?"

Surprisingly, I wasn't insulted.  It's true.  I work out 10-15 hours a week.  I swim, bike, run, lift weights, do yoga... not to mention the walking, stair climbing, lifting, and squatting I do at work 5 days a week.  As most of us know, losing weight is 80% what you eat.  So why aren't I smaller?

Honestly, I am an emotional eater.  When I am stressed, sad, or happy, I want to eat cookies.  Most of the time its cookies, but sometimes it is semi-sweet chocolate chips, ice cream, or M&M's.  This is something I have done since I was a child.  

I have struggled with this behavior my whole life.  I do have more control of it now since I have been working on it, but it's been difficult lately.  The first part of the year, I focused on getting stronger and faster.  But, I want to enjoy this training -- and I want to work on my whole self.  

I have decided to do something very difficult -- and it scares me, because I am not sure I can succeed.  I have decided to give up chocolate chip cookies (and ice cream, chocolate chips, M&Ms) until Ironman.  I just read this sentence and it sounds absolutely ridiculous, but I know to other people who are emotional eaters you will understand.  You will understand that this decision is a choice to make myself a healthier person and force myself to be willing to be vulnerable, pay attention to my feelings/emotions, and manage them better.  

This scares me, a lot.  Desserts are my crutch.  I am scared of failing (and I have before), but yet I am going to dare greatly.  I want to prove to myself that I am strong enough to deal with situations in a healthier way.   

It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, and comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat. -Theodore Roosevelt



We have 130 days until Ironman.  I have 130 days to focus on crossing that finish line -- a healthier, stronger and happier person.  I just re-read my:  Why I want to be an Ironman post.  I said:

 "Being the best person I can be means a lot to me.  You have to be mentally strong to train and complete these races.  You can't put yourself down or focus on negative thoughts.  You have to be healthy in every aspect -- physically and mentally.  That includes reducing anxiety and stress, eating healthy, and treating yourself well.  

To me, becoming an Ironman is the cherry on top of my 31 year journey.  It demonstrates the progress I have made to become a better version of ME.  It shows me that even though I can't ever be perfect -- I am still a strong, beautiful, driven person who can accomplish anything I put my mind to."

LET'S DO THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

Rocketman Triathlon Recap

I woke up without a problem race morning and I was feeling good.  My race day nutrition has been off ever sine Augusta and even more once I got my tri bike -- so I was nervous about feeling good during the race.  I decided that it would be better for me to eat a banana (what I usually eat), hard boiled egg, and 16oz electrolyte drink.  My goal was to consume slowly so I could monitor how I was feeling.  I had been very good drinking electrolytes all week -- I felt confident I was hydrated going into race morning.  My urine color confirmed that race morning (sorry for TMI, but its the truth!).  I think I was more nervous for this race then any other race I have EVER completed.  Honestly, I had high expectations for myself (more on that later).  I skipped my pre-race gu because I was afraid it would upset my stomach, but I did take in two salt sticks.  

Hanging out before the race.  I really thought I was going to vomit.

Because it was a smaller race, each wave included multiple age groups.  I decided not to wear my wetsuit and I soon regretted that once we got in the water and it was significantly colder than a few weeks prior.  I was shivering.  We waited for the wave before us to start and we swam up to the starting line.  Once we were at the starting line it felt really comforting to have my teammates and friends by my side.  I noticed one woman that ran over Marianne as we swam up to the starting line and I alerted Jess so she could swim quickly away from her.  Lorri mentioned that "this was my mass swim start" for Ironman Florida.  If you focus on the people around you, the actual MASS start will not be as overwhelming.  I said -- I could do this.  It always takes me a minute or two to get in my rhythm, but once I did I felt great.  It was salty and wavy, but I feel comfortable in waves.   However, the girl I warned Jess about was zig zagging and constantly running into me.  Once we made the turn at the first buoy, I swam out to try to avoid her, but she still found me.  It was like she was doing it on purpose!  I finally got rid of her once the waves picked up towards the second turn.  The buoys were really difficult to see and frustrating.  I looked at my watch and I was already at 1.1 miles.  I could see the orange buoys by the finish line and I knew at the minute the course was long.  I was really counting on a 37 minute swim -- and that just wasn't going to happen when I swam 1.41 miles!  I converted my frustration to power and swam on.  I completed the swim in 44:59.

Andy got this AWESOME video of me coming out of the water!

I came out of the water and booked it to transition.  Sway immediately said "Jess is only a few minutes in front of you."  I hustled and completed my T1 time in 2:52!

I don't know what has been going on with me and my bike lately, but all I can say is when I ride I just want to be in "attack" mode.  I want my legs to go has hard as they can so I can ride as fast as possible. My goal was to catch up to Jess.  The motivation to catch up with Jess + the tailwind had me FLYING.  I was going 26mph the first 8 miles.  I had a lot of people cheer me on as I passed them.  It gave me more JUICE to keep going.  Once we made the turn into the Kennedy Space Center we had our first hit of wind.  It wasn't that bad, but it slowed me down to 21-22mph.  That's when I spotted Jess' cute KSwiss outfit.  I ALWAYS spot Jess by her outfits.  We played leap frog a little, but around mile 43 Jess passed me and I could tell she had a little more juice than I did.  The wind was picking up and my energy was slowly fading.  I had one salt tab on the bike and I believe I started getting dehydrated then -- which led to my decrease in energy.  I used Jess as motivation.  I didn't want to lose her from my site.  When I wanted to slow down, I looked up and tried to push harder to get close to her.  I truly believe this kept my motivation and pace up.

I hustled up the bridge as I saw more than one person WALKING their bike up the hill.  I flew down the bridge and made the turn.  I kept my eyes on the road, but heard the TWS spectators cheering me on.  Jason was volunteering at the dismount line and grabbed this picture of me!  My official bike time was 2:55:42 average of 19.1mph.  My Garmin and my bike computer measured around 56.5 miles on the bike.  I was MORE than satisfied with that!

I wasn't feeling great, but I saw Jess at transition and she encouraged me.  I told Sway I wiped myself out on the bike.  She said to take my time getting in the groove of my run.  I hustled and had a 2:36 T2 time.

My LEGS felt amazing as I ran.  I ended up running the first 4 miles at around a 10:00min/mile pace.  However, I was CHUGGING water.  I was SOOOO THIRSTY.  The first loop went by quickly.  It was nice seeing so many TWS on the run course -- it was almost like every 1-2 minutes the first few miles that I saw someone.  I made the turn and headed out to complete my second lap.

 I look good here, but it was soon that I started hearing all the WATER I was chugging in my stomach sloshing.  LITERALLY.  From one side to the other -- I heard it.  I knew then that I was drinking WAY TOO MUCH water, indicating I was dehydrated.  I never want to drink that much when I run, but for some reason it wasn't clicking to take MORE salt.  I only took 1 salt stick on the bike.  I should have taken 6.  It was too late -- I was dehydrated.  I did take about 4 salt sticks during the run -- also not the correct amount.  I tried to stick to ice once I realized I was drinking too much.  I let it melt in my mouth and I chewed on it.  I slowed down  A LOT the second half.  To be honest, I was a little disappointed.  I could have run faster and I didn't.  Figuring out my nutrition before Ironman is on the top of my priority list.  

I finished strong.  

Run time 2:26:29 Average min/mile: 11:11

I felt AMAZING.  Total time:  6:12:27  A 27 minute PR! (compared to Florida 70.3)

Jess and I took some pictures and hung out to wait for the rest of our teammates.  Jess wanted to see if she won an award so we headed over to the results board and I saw this:

HOLY CRAP!!!! I came in third place in my age group.  I NEVER thought that was possible.  I placed 3rd out of 15 in my age group.  I got my award and was all smiles!

Jess won first place in her age group! :)

Me, my medal, my award, and my lady. :)

My wonderful Sherpa and I.  He is amazing. <3

We then hung out and waited for the rest of our teammates to make their way in.  Jason and Jason went to CVS and got some beers to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.  

Jason and Bilal hanging out on the hammOCK.

Jess and I celebrating! :)

Jenny, Me, Jess, and Marianne after we all finished!

Ladies + Sherpas

Crazy Picture!

We walked Elizabeth in and to the finish line as a team.  She pushed through and never gave up.  

This is the TRI WITH SWAY way! :)

Jason, Nash, Jason and Miguel (not pictured) volunteered and helped Sway make transition go smoothly!

Same SUN BURN lines! SUNSCREEN!

Some of our group at the end!

We headed to a local Mexican restaurant for a post race dinner, drink, and celebration!  It felt so good.

Back in December, Jess organized a goal setting event for our group.  The main thing I took away was that GOALS should not be EASY.  That is a TO DO list.  Goals should be more like DREAMS.  It made me feel a little uncomfortable.  What if I couldn't?  Jess said: "How do you know if you don't try?"  A few weeks later we had our TWS meeting.  Sway had us write down three goals for the year.  My goals were: complete Florida Ironman, weight X amount, and strength train 2x per week.  I had a conversation with Linda another teammate and she encouraged me to be more accountable with my weight.  

"Keep your goals out of reach, but not out of sight."

That day I decided I wasn't going to make excuses or be afraid to fail.  I was ALL IN.  At the goal setting event one of the Lululemon girls said "everything I do I think about how this will effect my goal."  So, I started strength training, counting my calories (points!), doing weekly weigh ins, telling coach my weekly weight and progress, and working hard EVERY DAY.  I wasn't perfect by any means, but I kept my mind on my goals.  I started to lose weight and get stronger.  I felt better and it showed in my performances.  I was consistently improving.  It really hit me the day I was riding with Sway.  Granted I was drafting, but I was holding 24mph.  I road 62 miles with Sway and then ran 3 miles @ 9:12 pace.  I started to realize that all the hard work I was doing was paying off.  

A week before the race I started thinking.  Could I do a sub 6 half Ironman?  I calculated my time.  YES, I COULD.  I asked Sway and she said yes I could, but it would HURT.  I decided -- what the heck.  I had a SECRET goal for sub 6.  It wasn't easy, but why not.  After the long swim, I knew the sub 6 was a long shot.  I will admit I was a little disappointed, but after I got the age group award I realized that I had no reason to be.  I worked my BUTT off for the past 4 months and I took 27 minutes off my Florida half time on a HARD bike course and A LONG swim.  

What I learned was that if you make goals that are DIFFICULT to obtain your potential to succeed increases ten fold.  You know my goal for Augusta is?  SUB 6... okay 5:45. ;)  

This way of thinking has improved the way I treat myself.  I used to be SO HARD on myself when I didn't meet a goal despite my effort.  Now, I realize that goals shouldn't be EASY to accomplish and that is OKAY.  Progress not perfection.  Once I excepted that, my vision and goals kept getting bigger, because I trusted and believed in myself.  

We can do anything we put our minds to.  I have always believed that.  It's not until we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and believe that we can be something we never thought we could be -- that we reach our FULL potential.  

167 Days until Ironman.

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.  LET'S DO THIS.