Runner's High

New Year. New Vision.

2012-01-08T14:41:00.000-08:00

Last year, I did my very first vision board. It was a fun and enlightening experience and it helped me more than I imagined. Knowing this, it has been on my "to-do" list forever. Don't believe me?

Can you find the ONE AND ONLY thing not crossed off? Not to mention, all of the other tasks are pre-Christmas. This struck me the other day as I went to remove it (the post-it) and I reminded myself of what I still needed to do.

I am not entirely sure why I have been avoiding making my board. I know how it helped last year. So what was I avoiding? I think it was because I didn't believe my vision was clear. But I was wrong.

I started sifting through magazines and cutting any and every thing out that appealed to me. Once I had a plethora of images, sayings, etc. It was really easy to decipher what was important (and not important) to me this year in completing my goals.

First off, I guess I felt I had to remind myself what I was doing.

To get to IMCDA, I figured out what was going to be important to me in getting there.

In this process, I identified that my goals were different this time for training and racing. Unlike my first Ironman, instead of just completing it, I want to focus on it and train to the best of my ability -- embrace it and love it. Not just get through it.

And, of course, there will be races to get there

The whole right side of the board, I dedicated to the actual race itself. To reminding me of my goals in completing and how I wanted to race it.

So, you put it all together and here is what you get:

A constant reminder of what I am shooting for, and how I am going to get there.

It's hanging in my home office, where I will see it every day from now till June 24th. I am counting on it to be my affirmation as I move along these next few months and my motivation when times are rough to remind me of what I am working for. It worked last year and I am hoping it will work again!

Why, hello track! It's been awhile...

2012-01-04T11:19:00.000-08:00

Or what I should title this post is HAPPY NEW YEAR! (a couple days late)

Yes, I have never been one much for the New Year's holiday. Not entirely sure why. NYE was always very anti-climactic. And, growing up in WI, New Years wasn't really a time to begin fitness goals since much of January and into February you were often advised to "stay inside at all costs" due to windchill. To top it off, I guess I always figured if I needed a holiday to make me set a goal, I probably wasn't going to pull through with the goal.

BUT, this year I already have goals in place and the New Year just seems like the right time to kick them off. My hamstring is getting better and, despite the nagging hammy, I am back to actually ENJOYING and LOVING running!!! (when can I go next?)

So, here I sit, excited for the New Year and what it will bring me.

(a) kids that are super-fun! Yes, I know I have always loved being a parent (at most times), but the kids are at such a fun age currently that I can't get enough of them. We had an 8-hour party on NYE, just the four of us. We watched some movies, we had a dance party, played games and just filled the time until midnight (EST) with our little buddies - and it was the best time. {To be honest, I have never forgone plans to "go out", just to stay home, but it was the best decision we could have made this year!} I am never going to get this time back, so I am looking forward to eeking out every bit of fun that I can with these guys.

Who wouldn't want to spend time with these guys?
And, look! they even cook.

(b) BOSTON!!!!!!!!! The mother of marathons. I can't even count how many 20+ mile runs I have run over the years in pursuit of being able to run this race.

(c) an IRONMAN. I am finally feeling like I am embracing it. It is here. It is THIS year... and I am actually loving my training. (Hence, the 5:30 a.m. track this morning. It hurt, but hey! when else do I see shooting stars?)

(d) Time with the fam. Following the Ironman, we have a trip to Wisconsin planned for my sister's wedding reception, we have friends from WI coming out here, some trail running with my hubs in the picture. Just time to kick it and enjoy...

proper family bonding - are you surprised?

(e) The excitement of having (almost) NOTHING athletically planned after Ironman. I do have to admit that I have a tendency to plan ahead, WAY ahead. So sometimes I see beyond what I am actually training for to what I am going to do next. I don't like this. IM makes me embrace what I am training for now and not allow myself to pick my "next goal" as I can honestly say "I don't know what I will feel like after Ironman"... and I don't.

That being said, the two things I AM looking forward to after IM are:

Pacing at Leadville: HOLY MOLY! the mother of ultras and I am excited to see it and be a part of it and, most importantly, run with Jane and support her and Todd to their goals!

Team Jane! (not pictured: other pacers and support crew)

My first Xterra: me, Nina, Ross, Ken, Lori -- anyone else in? Yes, I signed up for Xterra Lory and I have never even ridden a mountain bike. Go me!

After that... we will see what my life brings me, but for this year, I AM SUPER PUMPED to get it started.

Kicking off the year right with a New Years Run!

On the injured list?

2011-11-30T09:01:00.000-08:00

I have been training for the Rock Canyon Half Marathon for awhile now... I knew I needed another goal to get me through the past couple of months. So, a half marathon it was.

I am not sure if I voiced this at all, but I injured my hamstring in August. I spent the 3 weeks leading up to Harvest Moon swimming, biking and elipticalling. It was torture. Then I raced on an owy of a hamstring, but it was my last race of the season, so I plugged through it and did what I could. It was nowhere near the race I wanted it to be, but it was what it was.

After HM, I rested and stretched and eased back into running and I thought my hamstring issues were over.

HOWEVER, this past weekend my hammy flared up again while running. Great. But, we did 11 miles, and I could have done 2 more, so I figured all was good for the race this weekend. I would just fight through it when it started to ache.

Fast forward to this morning and my track workout. Straight up pain when I tried to run fast. So much that I cut my workout down by more than half (and that is SOOOO not like me).

Now I have a decision to make. To race or not to race. I still have to talk to Charley about it. And I am seeing my dr. in the morning tomorrow. But, all I can say is.... This. Really. Stinks.

Trotting with the Waltons!

2011-11-25T06:55:00.000-08:00

Like many others, we have adopted doing a Turkey Trot as part of our Thanksgiving family tradition. When we moved to Colorado we chose the Highlands Ranch Turkey Day 5k over various others because it (a) had a kid's race and - probably more importantly at the time - (b) was early enough for us to trot and get home to watch the Packers. Over the past years, the kids have come to grow and love their "turkey race" and we have come to realize how good it is to have that tradition for them.

This year, we signed up before realizing they cut the kids race. Entirely. I emailed the race director who told me that the kids were welcome to walk the 5k. Hmmm... don't think that will fly with my 5 & 6 year olds. Since we had paid, we decided we (the adults) would do the race regardless but I was dreading, absolutely DREADING, telling the kids that there was no race for them. Side note: Countless times this past year Linc has asked me to "wear our turkey shirts" together. Just so proud of doing the race last year.

Fast forward to last weekend and my friend, Tyler, emailed asking if we wanted to be a part of their family trot. Score! It was a sure-fire way to include the kids and get our traditional trot in. (And I wouldn't have to tell Lincoln he couldn't do a 'turkey race' this year.) So we bit our race fees for the first race and opted for fun! And so glad we did.

Tyler = rock star race director (with Josh)

Ross, my dad and the kids ready to run and roll.

Tyler did an awesome job at running the race. He set up a "run Rabbit run" format, so everyone predicted their time and started accordingly so that (in theory) we would all be racing to the finish/finishing together. Ie, if you thought you would run a 40 minute 5k, you would start at 10:10. If you thought you would run a 30 min 5k, you would start at 10:20.
This was a really cool format not only because it allowed for wave starts,

One of the first wave starts

Ross, Dad, Jackson and Hunter!

And they're off!

Probably my favorite wave start picture - I think this is awesome!

The format and the way the course was set up also allowed for great speactating and seeing everyone on the course multiple times.

Getting/giving the love on the course!

Beth and Margaret rocking the race!

Hunter coming around on his first lap.

Ross and Dad coming around!

Run, Jewels, Run!

I ended up going off in a wave a bit later and running the whole thing with Anne - until she caught me towards the end! She gave me a little "you're coming with me", but my legs did not have it in them. :)

Anne = sweet, innocent and FAST!

We had a lot of great endings as well! From intense to joyous -

Go, Parker, GO!

Nothing like a little competition amongst family...

Margaret and Dave coming into the end

Tyler's dad finishing strong!

This race was PERFECT and gave each participant whatever they wanted. I know this post is filled with pictures, but here my FAVORITE snapshot of the day:

Thanks Tyler and Walton Family for letting the Strand and Phelps family join your celebration. On a day when family means so much, I appreciate you letting us join in on yours.

Santa Came Early!

2011-11-23T13:27:00.000-08:00

Since having kids, we have started a rule - NO CHRISTMAS BEFORE THANKSGIVING! Basically, because between November 25th and December 25th ALL we hear about it Santa, toys, Christmas, etc. I know the average person can be overwhelmed with all of the holiday hubbub -- imagine that being repeated over and over (and over) in your household by two little voices continuously for a month. That's my life. And that's where the rule has evolved from.

So, this year, it appears I broke my rule... twice. (And I am kind of excited about it.)

The first time was with the kids, Ross and the Atwells. We enjoyed dinner along with a {gulp} Christmas parade (complete with Santa), a tree lighting, carolers, carriage riding and hot chocolate. It was the perfect night to "get into the season" - it was just a week earlier than I wanted it.

Waiting for the parade - so EXCITED to see Santa!

Thankfully, there has not been too much collateral damage. With the arrival of my parents for Thanksgiving, the kids have been focused on them and not the jolly, old fat man. Whew!

They even made a list for Thanksgiving

With that out of the way, I thought I was well on my way to celebrating Thanksgiving with the family, when... Santa stopped by with a gift for me!

A brand, spanking new tri bike! With everyone focused on the holidays coming, their season being over, etc, etc. it appears to be an opportune time to shop for new bikes and great deals. So, with the help of Charley, I sought out a prelim fit to see what bikes might be a good fit for me, did some shopping around and ended up with a smokin' deal from Josh at TriBella and a fit to match! To justify the cost, it will be my Christmas present (and then some), so I thought it was again worth "breaking my rule" and letting Santa visit a little early. ;)

I am so excited about the bike and think it will be the perfect thing to motivate me to get through the winter season and training for IMCDA. Ross has even made a special spot for it in the basement.

It already feels at home. ;)

So... I guess it is OK for Santa to come once or twice before the gobble, gobbler.

My OFF season

2011-11-04T19:47:00.000-07:00

So... it seems appropriate that pretty much my last blog was Harvest Moon - a whopping 7 weeks ago.

I told myself after Harvest Moon, I was taking some time off... and I did. It is the first time in close to 3 years that I haven't been thinking and training for the "next" race. It's not that I don't have some races on my schedule - I do - it's just that I was allowing myself some time to recover, not do too much and take life day by day, not workout by workout.

Planning my workouts went like this: Me: Jane, do you wanna run in the morning? Jane: Sure, how 'bout Cherry Creek? Me: ok. OR Me: Patty, do you wanna bike? Patty: Yes, Wednesday looks like good weather. Me: See you Wednesday. OR Me: AH, I hate this computer. Ross: Go for a run. Me: OK, see you in an hour. You get the drift. And, while I was worried about losing some of my level of fitness, it was quite refreshing at the same time not to have to concentrate on anything other than enjoying it.

And boy did I enjoy it.

Here are some highlights. Well, the tri/running-related ones.

Kicking off my planning for the next year with an IMCDA BBQ.

Yep, I signed up for another Ironman with these characters... and a few others not pictured here.
(They were probably off training.)

Running in the rain at the "Running of the Buffalo".

Me and Charley (coach and race director)

Even won me a Buffalo.

Coolest. Award. Ever.

Pacing Todd in his 100-miler. YES! 100 miles. I was responsible for keeping him happy/running miles 57-71ish. A very cool experience and I was glad I got to share it with him.

What better way to distract/occupy a runner than by taking pictures. Even if it was pitch black
as we ran through the night.

So, here I sit. I've got one more weekend, till my life returns to a schedule. Well, a workout schedule... I've actually learned a lot by taking some time off. Mostly about time management. By not having a schedule set out for me, I made some choices of my own and learned a lot... In particular, I have learned that I have my father's over-working tendencies. If given the time, I will work, work, work, non-stop! (And be happy about it.) I run my own murder mystery party business - with plenty of work that "can" be done - so it is easy to do. Plus, I love what I do! Having a workout schedule does (and will) balance me out more. A schedule "forces" (for lack of a better word) me to stop working and pay attention to my health and my athletic ambition. So while I enjoyed my time off, I am certainly looking forward to getting back to training on Monday.

A month ago, I don't think I would have thought this... Enjoying my time "off" too much. But now, now it is time to get back to business - and I don't mean the murder mystery kind. :)

Think Different.

2011-10-06T08:14:00.000-07:00

Steve Jobs passed away last night. Most know him as the pioneer of Apple. And most started noticing Apple about the time they purchased their first ipod. 4-5 years ago? However, Apple (and inevitably Steve) have been a part of my life for the past 16 years. It has been ingrained in me since I went to Best Buy at age 18 and said, "I want to be a designer" and the salesperson said, "then you need a Macintosh" (what Apple was called back then). At first it was the technology, but as I progressed through undergrad and grad school in advertising and studied the philosophies of both the business and the equipment, it moved me, as it did many other advertising individuals of my time.

An oldy, but goody, just to show that Apple has been committed to change from the beginning.

So what does this have to do with triathlon or running? Well, everything comes full circle. I have left advertising, but do not have to leave what it has given me or how I choose to adapt those philosophies and inspiration to what I do today. Thinking different about my training and races improves not only my physical abilities, but my lifts my mental spirits as well. I was just talking with a girlfriend who remembers me from before I got to know her as "the girl who was doing all that crazy training stuff and races". To me, that wasn't crazy, it just was. Thinking differently did not only make me a better creative, but thinking differently in my life continues to make me a better person, friend, wife, mother, and yes, even athlete.

Here's another spot. THIS ONE YOU HAVE TO WATCH. The above spot is admired by creatives and mac users of old times, but this one, well, this one should resonate with everyone.

It is not that I am out to change the world, although after watching this commercial, I think that I need to re-evaluate and think differently about that.

Sun sets on my season with a big 'ole HARVEST MOON

2011-09-16T20:21:00.000-07:00

Well, what better way can you think of to celebrate your IRONMANniversary than to do a half Ironman? Ok, so I can think of A THOUSAND other ways to commemorate the occasion, but that is what I happen to choose to do.

Harvest Moon is a half IM that is run at our local reservoir. I have wanted to do this race since we moved out here since I train out there ALL THE TIME. However, Harvest Moon is also run the same weekend as Ironman WI (I {heart} you IMMOO), so the last few years we have been back in Madison this same weekend. Needless to say, I have had HM on my race calendar for the last year.

Despite the anticipation for the race, I really didn't know what to expect. Physically, I am in pretty good shape. BUT, I strained my hamstring about a month before, so I hadn't been running, like at all. Physiology would say I should still be able to pr, but my head was reminding me how hard the course was compared to my pr course (sea level and flat). All that in mind, I went into it with two goals:
(1) To "race" my swim and bike. In the past, I have always conserved energy on my swim and bike, thinking it would help me on the run, but I have come to think that I may get even better results by pushing on the swim and run.
(2) To end up "somewhere around" my pr. Considering (a) my strained hammy, (b) the altitude and (c) that this course is HARD (read: hilly, exposed and windy), I wanted to keep my expectations in check.

The good thing about this race is that I was plenty familiar with the course and plenty familiar with the peeps racing it. Pre-race was pretty low-key– just perfect!

Me, Virginia, Shelly, Stu and Jason.

Started off the swim and all was well. I can't really say much for the swim. The beautiful thing about the Aurora res is that it is so clean you can follow bubbles. I did. Unfortunately, the bubbles/feet led me straight into a kayak, so evidently the feet didn't know where they were going. Oops! So from there on out, I tried siting myself.

This worked well till I turned around. Once heading back to shore, I couldn't tell which buoys I was supposed to be siting off of, so I did my best. At one point, Katy-I-am-EVERYWHERE-Blakemore showed up in her trusty kayak to tell me I was going the wrong way. That helped me out and then I was heading for the big, yellow buoy at the end.

Out of the water, saw Ross and he told me I was doing good (he always tells me that). :)

Onto bike and off on my way. Now, I won't say much about the bike other than it is hilly and windy. However, I know this, so I planned accordingly. Living close to the course, I got a chance to ride it and I could plan for where I was going to hammer it and where to go easy. Thankfully, I did it that way. I rode it smart and didn't hold back. AND, I ended up with a bike pr time, regardless of how windy and hilly it was. Go me!

Onto the run. So here is where the test was. Immediately out of transition and, yep, hamstring still strained. Great. I mean, OW! I worked on keeping getting my heart rate down. To be honest, not a whole lot of people passed me on the bike... and none in my division. That NEVER happens (must be improving on my bike). So I get out onto my run and I hurt. It was hot. No shade. Ugh. OK. Just get through this puppy, I told myself. Walk every aid station if you have to (I did).

I come upon aid station #1 and it is rock, stock and loaded with RMTC volunteers-- YAY!
#1 tip to racing: If you can get into a race where there is an aid station with all of your tri club or run club homies - do it! So I ended mile one happy, hydrated and doused with water from head to toe. Off to miles 2-13.1.

I proceeded, not feeling the best. Now I was starting to have nutritional issues as well as hamstring issues. So I just plugged along. What I have gotten really good about is assessing my body and what I can push it to for the next "x" number of miles and continuing on at that pace.

At some point Katy-I -am-EVERYWHERE-Blakemore (I didn't mention it, but she was also on the bike course) rode up to chat and give me some encouragement. At that point, I saw her water bottle and contemplated asking her for it. See, I usually run with my own bottle, but figured I was getting stronger and I could just live off the course. Not so. My nutritional issues, I later deduced, were coming from the fact I didn't have my own bottle to sip out of. Instead I was guzzling at aid stations, causing all sorts of weird stuff. Anyways... back to the race.

I worked my way through it. Aid station by aid station. Aid stations were only 1 mile apart, but as I mentioned, it was HOT, so by the next aid station, I needed whatever they were selling. Oy, vey!

At the turnaround was Anne (Tyler's wife). Now the thing I absolutely LOVE about the tri community is the support. We all get it. And we would all do anything to help another racer (ex: Katy-I am-EVERYWHERE- Blakemore giving up her Sunday to, well, be everywhere for everyone). So when I passed Anne, I asked her to take my heart rate monitor (it was chafing bad). As I took it off, I realized how incredibly gross and sweaty it was-DISGUSTING! Anne didn't blink and was happy to help. Now that is love.

OK, onto my way home. The second half was just plug and go. 5-10 minutes behind me I saw Tyler. Cool! We had common time goals and he started 5-10 minutes behind me, so I figured we were both on track. Plug, plug, plug. Just get through the second half. So, I did.

Mile 11 aid station. Jason caught up with me. Wanted to rally me to the end. Unfortunately, I couldn't keep up. I was just getting so bogged down with the water at the aid stations-- but I NEEDED it as well.

Mile 12. RMTC AID STATION!!! I got a good dousing of H20 on the head and I was home free. That is the ONLY aid station I did not walk through-- onward home!

Hit the end and there were Ross and the kiddos and, yes, A SLIP AND SLIDE!!! I took it like a pro!

And is that where the story ends? Well, yes and no. The race DID officially end there. As did my "season". But I got to hang out with my friends, enjoy the day and get up on an actual podium.

Linc on slip'n slide

What a cutie- him, not me!

Yes, I got 3rd place for my age group. So, I was happy with that. (no pictures of the podium, as Ross was at the beach with the kiddos-- what a good dad.)

On top of that, I reached my goals- I "raced the swim and bike" with no repercussions on the run (ie, I think the run would have turned out the same regardless of if I had conserved before) and a pr for me.

And what, per se, was my PRIZE for 3rd place? What did they award me for all of my hard work, diligence and contribution for the sport?

Wine. How appropriate.

The perfect way to kick off my "off season". What is that?

IRONMANniversary

2011-09-10T15:00:00.000-07:00

It was earlier this week and I got a text from a friend. It just said "Can you believe it's been almost a year?". I immediately knew what she was talking about.

Me and Courtney ready to take on Ironman WI 2010

2 years ago, Ross and I took a fateful step and signed up for Ironman Wisconsin 2010... and last year we completed it.

A year later, I look back at our year of training and the event itself-- they were EPIC.
** I know the word epic is overused, so I looked it up in the thesaurus for synonyms. Here's what I found: astronomic, colossal, considerable, enormous, gigantic, ginormous, humongous*, jumbo, mammoth, massive, mega, monster*, monumental, prodigious, sizeable, tremendous, vast, very big, very large, whopping. (Who knew ginormous was actually a word?) I guess those would describe it as well.

What did I REALLY get out of the training and the event? Was it just bragging rights?

Starting: I thought so. I wanted to be an "Ironman".
Looking back: No way.

It's indescribable what I gained and learned over the year. Yes, my swim/bike/run form improved, as did my discipline, my drive and my dedication. Not just to sports, but to the other areas in my life.

Training not only taught me how to manage my time, but also how to improve the uses of it. While I am sure I spent less time at work, the time I did spend was more concentrated and I got more done. The time with my kids was cherished and special.

Among the other benefits I received from training:

Meeting amazing people along the way
Having goals and achieving them
Committing yourself to one purpose
Trying new things
Following through
Putting myself out there
Overcoming fear of failure

But most importantly, the support of others. This experience, and sharing it with my family and friends, brought to light how much they care about me and are willing to support me along the way. My mom crewing me in a 50, friends pitching in to watch the kids on big workout days, the turnout of friends and family at the event (AMAZING!) and those online. That is what I will always remember.

For anyone on the fence about doing an Ironman, I say DO IT!
Everyone's journey through the experience is different and yields different results. You may go into the experience thinking that it will be a certain "way", it won't. You can plan all you want, but the experience will bring you what it does. While I thought that the year and my accomplishments would center around my swim/bike/running, it didn't. It was the emotional and spiritual benefits, not my fitness, that I will always remember and take with me. Even for those who sign-up and train and never make it to the finish line, the experience for those people too, will bring them more knowledge about themselves than most other experience in a lifetime.

If an Ironman were just about bragging rights, no one would do more than one.

Volunteering Rattlesnake!!!

2011-08-22T05:42:00.000-07:00

I opted not to do the Rattlesnake Back2Back due to time commitment, but then I ended up volunteering for the sprint on Sunday so... go figure that one out? Anyways, it was a real fun time I had and volunteering at a race is always a blast.

The morning started out with Keith and Tom and I hanging by the swim beach soaking it all in. The sunrises out at the res are always awesome!

Another awesome sunrise at the res

Chillin' before the chaos begins

Then it was up into transition to start kicking people out and down to the beach. Here I ran into friends, including Michelle and Jon, whom I haven't seen all season. After catching up with them, I took on my volunteering duties and went to the swim beach to help out. Basically, I was letting people know the swim course and when (approximately) to get into the corral.

One of the best lane buddies a girl can have.

After making sure that everyone was safely in the corral, I headed over to the swim exit to lend my expertise in STRIPPING!!! Get your mind out of the gutter... think this:

I have only been to 3 races with strippers and the other 2 were quite a lot longer distances, so I think that it is a real novelty to have wetsuit strippers at races and I was happy to help out.

And, boy did I have fun. I really do like to feel useful and this was position that allowed me to do so. Knowing the race mentality of some of the more competitive racers, I was all over helping out those who wanted to be quick and speedy. (Michelle even told me I was the best wetsuit stripper she had ever had. What an honor.) I got it down to a science of where to grab on the wetsuit and yanking just so to get the suits off with the least resistance and all.

But then there were also those racers who were stumbling up the beach, depleted after the swim, barely even able to get their wetsuit unzipped. Those racers I slowed down and helped out every which way I could. From unzipping, to helping get their arms out, to pulling it off. I did everything I could to get them in there and out of there efficiently without making them feel rushed.

It was awesome and I had such a fun time. The one thing I didn't realize about wetsuit stripping is you get COMPLETELY soaked. Like drenched. Water is flying at you from their wetsuits. When all was said and done, minus the mostly dry hair, I looked like I had just done the swim, seriously.

Your Rattlesnake stripper extraordinaires. You can't tell, but we are all soaked through.

After the last swimmer came through, it was onto the run to cheer people out onto the run and then a little bit later to the finish. I was excited to see the Ford family and catch a shot of Michelle as she headed into the finish looking strong!

Michelle finishing strong!!!

Is that a smile?

Then to hang with everyone else as the race finished. It was great to see all the Back2Back'ers and the smiles on their faces that they finished. It is a unique and interesting challenge and the race director always gives the back2back'ers something special. This year it was a very sweet running jacket and I was super-bummed I missed out on that! Next year...

While I didn't get to do the "official" back2back, I made my own back2back racing and volunteering!

Treat I found for the race... I thought it was appropriate.

Time to celebrate a great weekend!

Yum! If only every race could have a shot named after them.

Racing Rattlesnake!!!

2011-08-21T19:35:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the weekend of EVERYTHING it seems - Leadville 100, Pikes Peak Ascent & marathon, Warrior Dash, age group nationals and...

Rattlesnake is a two-day triathlon series out here at the Aurora Reservoir, and olympic on Saturday and a sprint on Sunday. Some people do the Back2back. I considered it, but at the time of signing up, didn't know if I could commit to both days, so I opted for the olympic. Figured it would be a great training race for the Harvest Moon 1/2 Ironman next month, as HM is also in the res. Plus, our family loves the Aurora Res, our kids could dig in the sand forever.

So, Saturday morning it was off to the res for me. Since it was only a few miles, I rode in on my bike. It was a nice, relaxing ride at 6 in the morning with no traffic and a great little warm-up. I got there, into transition, found a few friends and then it was off on a short warm-up run. I timed it well, maybe a little too close, but it wasn't too hectic or stressed of an atmosphere, so all was good. I got down to the water just in time to dunk in before finding Ross and the kids and getting into the corral.

The swim is a time trial start, which I had never done before. Basically, they lined us up oldest to youngest, women first, then men. Everyone entered the water one at a time in 4-5 second intervals. This was actually very nice avoiding the mass chaos of a wave start. As I swam out, I realized that the buoys were strung together by a yellow rope. Sweet! Since I breathe to my right and the buoys were on my right, this was optimal for me. No need to sight, just keep the yellow rope right there by side. This worked well for the first lap, but then everyone caught on and there was a little more chaos the second loop around as now everyone was in the water. I still didn't mind it though. Looking to my right beat sighting into the sun AND I found some feet. Cool. I practiced drafting - not entirely sure if I was doing it right - but liking it. After awhile, I kept tapping the toes in front of me. I am sure the woman/man was probably annoyed and was thinking "just pass me already!", so I did. Around them I went and on my way. I was pretty happy with the swim as one of my weaknesses is sighting and swimming straight and I seemed to conquer it!

I got out of the water and Ross was there excited and cheering me on! (The boys were digging in the sand, go figure.) I ran up and through transition and off on the bike.

In Loveland earlier this year I realized I don't know how to "race" a bike. I just ride a bike course and when I am done, I am done. My goal for this bike was to be uncomfortable. Not redlining, but a bit out of my comfort zone. Thankfully, this course was FILLED with hills, so it was not an issue getting my heart rate elevated. I just had to keep it that way. And I did, so I was pretty proud of myself for that. Before I knew it, I was back at the reservoir and into T2. {Where I heard my kids screaming. "GO MOMMY!" - it is awesome having a small transition where the kids can watch and cheer!}

On with my race belt, run shoes and out on the course. I didn't really know what to expect, but I did want to run the second half of my run faster than my first, so I settled into what I thought I could maintain for 6 miles. And that I did. As I progressed, I wasn't feeling so good nutritionally. I tried to keep my heartrate in check where I could take on some water and calories without wanting to yack. It was a tad bit hot and my nutrition was off so I just continued doing what I could to make my way through the run. Again, I was on my way back before I knew it. I can do anything for 6 miles, right?

Hit the end and saw the kids in their swimsuits. They ran out to the shoot with me and were able to cross the finish line - all smiles!

I was done, yay! What I realized was that with the time trial start, I had NO CLUE what I had done, what time I had done, where I had placed, nothing. Hmph. And, figuring that I am never the "fastest" at shorter distances and such, I just went along figuring I was somewhere in the middle of the pack - like usual... I got some food, hung out with some friends, the kids, enjoyed the post-party (which was a nice set-up).

It wasn't till the results were posted that I realized I placed - 2nd in my age group! This is fun for me. I haven't placed in anything in triathlon, ever. I have plenty of friends who do. All the time. But, me, well... it's not really a consideration. But today it was. And that felt good and I was proud of my accomplishment for me.

Accepting my award with Yon, announcer and friend.

Krista and I with our age group awards (and Lincoln who wants to be in every pict)

And then, of course, was an afternoon of playing at the beach!!!

All you have to do is bring sand toys and my kids are in heaven.

The two reservoirs + two cities they created next to the big reservoir.

Copper Triangle Ride

2011-08-18T19:20:00.000-07:00

It is no secret that biking is my weakness when it comes to triathlon. I haven't been riding it for very long and I have been enjoying it for even less of that time. I have been riding just over two years and not until last summer did I real find a joy in riding, and mostly that is when I am in the mountains. I found that out a little more with all of our training for the Triple Bypass. Give me a spin ride - no fun. Give me a long ride up a few mountain passes - I can't wait to do it!

So when the RMTC announced they were going to do a self-supported ride of the Copper Triangle, I put it on our calendar as a must do. The Copper Triangle is a "classic Colorado ride" that goes over 3 passes - Fremont, Tennessee and Vail, totaling 80ish miles overall.

What a good looking group we have. Who's that handsome fellow in the gray?

As we got ready for the ride, we were briefed by Peter, who was going to ride along with us, take pictures and be a sag. (Check him out, he is an awesome photographer and all-around nice guy!) We were instructed "not to smile" the whole day, but I wasn't really good at it.

There I am, accidentally smiling. In my defense, so is Julie.

Up Fremont Pass was good. I was worried I might be chilly, as I had forgotten a riding coat, but you start of climbing right away, so I warmed up almost immediately. Fremont is just plug, plug, plug. I was amazed at how well everyone stuck together at the beginning and there was loads of conversation all around - always makes time pass quicker. As the pass got longer, it thinned out a little bit.

At the top of Fremont we regrouped, but I couldn't find Ross. As almost everyone was up, and the group started off again as Ross rode up. He had twisted his ankle a few weeks ago and this was his first real exercise since and he wasn't feeling it. We talked and he decided to go back down Fremont, get the van and follow us as a sag. {This turned out to be a tremendous help and mental relief for the ride.}

Left without the group, I had some serious catching up to do. I went down to Leadville, turned and started up Tennessee Pass. I climbed and climbed, probably pushed harder than I would have had I been with the group, but I just didn't want to be left behind. As I got part way up Tennessee Pass, I started catching some people and that was a relief, plus it was fun having people to talk to. At the top of Tennessee, I found the masses. Yay!

What an awesome picture of the group climbing. Me = still trying to catch up.

Arriving at the top of Tennessee (I think)

Hey! Hey! The gang's all here. Top of Tennessee Pass.

Then it was down to Minturn. Along the way, there were some mechanical failures, a couple cables broke. Joe came along and fixed one, Julie ended up jumping in the Peter's car and along came Ross. I was happy to see him. But I was even happier to be descending!

It's always fun going DOWN!

You can't beat views like this. I LOVE CO!

Once we were in Minturn, it was time to refuel and we descended on a gas station. I am not sure they knew what hit them with that many people coming in, buying Gatorade, using the restroom, refilling water bottles, etc.

We also took the opportunity to do a group shot for Honey Stinger,
one of our sponsors who gave us plenty of fuel for the ride.

After Minturn, we were off and rolling. Everyone kind of was at their own pace, and I was loosely following Michelle, Bill and Matt through Vail. We came to a roundabout and I lost sight of them. Since they weren't directly ahead, I assumed that they went around the roundabout to the north frontage road. (Side note: I had told Patty I just *knew* I was going to get lost in Vail and she told me to "just stay on the frontage road".) So when I got to the roundabout and saw a sign directing me to the north frontage road, I thought I was money. Took it and off I went, looking for more RMTC'ers. Aways down the north frontage road, I looked over and saw a bunch of jerseys on the SOUTH frontage road. THE OTHER SIDE of 70. Zoinks! How was I going to get over there? Back to the roundabout, around and up. I was certain I was REALLY far behind everyone now. Oh well.

On the east side of Vail, I came across Ross waiting for me. :) I stopped to talk to him and made sure I was on the right route. He said I was. As we were talking, another Michelle passed and I hurriedly kissed him goodbye as I told him "I need someone to follow so I don't get lost". (Have I mentioned how much I HATE getting lost?)

So from there on out, it was plug, plug, plug up the mountain. Now, this was my second time up Vail Pass. The first time was on the Triple Bypass in the rain and I flatted twice on it - it was horrible. This time I was on tired legs and feeling a little down nutritionally, but determined not to make it so bad.

As I made my way up Vail I realized how I really don't like it, but in honor of the promise I made to myself to make it better this time around, I had to learn to love it. Love it like an annoying little brother (which I can say because I don't have a little brother). Vail is a bike path so it is not graded like a road is graded. It has very steep pitches at points, which makes for the "annoying" part, but in learning to love it, I had to realize there is a fair share of not so steep pitches that allow your hear rate to settle down after climbing those steep pitches. So... you take the good with the bad. And I did. I used this opportunity to look around, take some pictures and enjoy what I could. It was hard, but definitely worth it.

View going up Vail Pass.

Could it be? Am I leveling out? Is that the top in sight?

I reached the top of Vail, happy and little depleted on the salt (note to self: TAKE SALT, even on overcast days/not-so-hot days). From the top of Vail it is alllllllll downhill, which is precisely what I like. Ross and I always call it our "reward" for climbing the mountain- the descent!

When I got to Copper, Ross was waiting for me with a cup of soup and a sandwich. I immediately wanted the soup, he told me to wait a minute and I told him, "no, NOW!" (normally not so rude to my husband - I swear). He handed it over and I drank the broth straight from the soup - no spoon or anything. It was the salt. I needed it. And I felt amazingly good after it. Enough to sit around, chill and have a few recovery drinks - Mix1 and Sierra Nevada's - both club sponsors... I ask you can this club get any cooler? Oh, wait, yes they can. Because then it was dinner and drinks at Old Chicago with not only Sierra Nevada, but 109 other beers. :)

Hunter's First Triathlon

2011-07-21T17:51:00.000-07:00

Ever since we did the Wisconsin Ironman, Hunter was asking when HE got to do a swim-bike-run race??? {He now calls it a triathlon.}

Being the end of September, there wasn't really out here as the weather was getting cold, so we appeased him by running both the Denver marathon Kid's Run and a kid's Turkey Trot. Both smashing successes.

Kids Run @ the Denver Rock'n Roll Marathon

Then this year rolled around and I noticed that the Boulder kid's tri was going to be when we were on vacation. Bummer. So, I looked around and found the Kid's Tri In July. I talked to the race director who assured me that it was non-competitive, meant to introduce the kid's to triathlon in a fun environment. PERFECT.

I was most concerned about the swim. The swim is a length of the pool (any stroke) and the race director told me he could hold onto the lap line or side of the pool at anytime. Regardless, I was worried about Hunter mentally freaking out, so 4th of July weekend we went to the local pool and I "tested" him to see if he was confident to swim by himself. Boy was he ever! He (and Lincoln) were both up for swimming laps. Lots of them. With that knowledge, I signed him up! (Lincoln is not 5 till next month, so he didn't qualify.)

Race morning rolled around and we were all really excited. Like everyone. Hunter had gotten bodymarked the day before and loaded up his bike in the van and off we went.

The cool thing about the kid's tri is the anti-hype. It was all really well run and organized and we just got on our way. Basically, here is how the day went -- check out the video at the end.

Body-marked and ready to go!

Got transition all set and ready to go!

A little encouragement from dad before the start

And he is off!

Swam the WHOLE way without holding onto the wall or lifeguard!

Waving to his fans!

1st stint - DONE!

Into transition

Ready for the bike!

Mounted and riding!

On the run - very intense!

And a strong finish for our little guy!

He got a popsicle and a medal!

Hanging with my favorite spectator

WE're all so proud of Hunter!

And now to the video!

Triple Bypass

2011-07-11T08:54:00.000-07:00

Ahhh... the Triple. When we were making our race schedule for this year and I really wanted to do Comrades (Ross didn't), so I told him to pick an event we could do together and he picked the Triple Bypass. 120 miles over 3 mountain passes. That's 10,000+ feet of climbing all at between 7,000-12,000 feet altitude. Oy vey!

Knowing I would have Ross' support for Comrades, I agreed to the Triple. Due to logistics, we decided that he would ride the first day and I the second. (This is the first year they were doing a back-to-back ride, so Ross rode Evergreen-->Avon, while I rode Avon-->Evergreen.)

Saturday Ross was up on his way. He had a great ride, enjoying himself along the way. After a morning of fun here, I took the kids up to Avon to watch their daddy finish. I do regret not researching the route a little more and being able to see him along the way. When I asked, Ross said that he just wanted us at the finish line to "have something to shoot for". Still, I think it would have helped for us to be along the way.

Ross enjoying his ride along the way!

Sunday came around, I was up, dressed and ready to go. Then we went out to the car... it was raining. And cold. NO! Ugh! As we drove from Vail to Avon, it only rained harder. Great. I hadn't planned for this. This is going to be miserable, I thought. We hung out at the start and I contemplated not going. Really, I did. The volunteer said the forecast was scattered showers all day with thunderstorms in Evergreen. Great, now I really was not going. Then I thought about a group of friends who earlier this summer rode over Trail Ridge Road IN. THE. SNOW. Yes they did. It even made it on the news.

Them riding up Trail Ridge Road in snow

If they can do that, I can at least start in the rain and see where the day takes me.

How my day started

2.5 miles in the day took me to cold, wet, chilled, eyes-watering from the wind and I flatted. Man, what a way to start. And this wasn't even my idea! I called Ross in frustration, told him I flatted and he asked if I wanted him to come pick me up and call it a day. Nope. I changed my flat and was on my way. (Side note: both race people/support and other riders offered much help. That was a high point. Me not accepting it and doing it on my own, another high point.)

Off on my way again, plugging along. The day was starting to get nicer. The rain stopped. I was still wet and chilled, but the wind was starting to air it out a bit.

The sun starting to pop out

I reached back for one of my pb&j sammies (my riding nutrition staple), there were none! They must've fallen out of my jersey pocket. Ugh! I got almost to the top of Vail pass and... another flat. Seriously? So, I stopped, changed that. Now I was out of tubes and CO2. I wondered if I should call it quits at the top of Vail Pass for fear of flatting again and getting stuck. But, knowing that there was excellent support on the course, I knew that would be a cowardly way out.

I got to the top of Vail Pass (no pb&j at aid station- sad) and looked forward to the downhill. One pass at a time, I thought. I can make it to the bottom of Loveland and reassess. Made it there, then halfway up the pass to a water stop. Refilled and received encouraging words from other riders (also looking to pump themselves up, you could tell). "I hear if you make it here, you are good" and "Weather is looking great for the rest of the day". At this point, I didn't care if they were all lies, I didn't. I just wanted to believe them.

Heading up to Loveland

Starting to smile... Last pict I got of the day- camera battery done.

At the top of Loveland, I got a few texts. Nina asking me if I wanted her to come and get me (I had texted her I was struggling when she wanted to know where I was) and Ross telling me he was at the next aid station. I texted Nina back to thanks her and let her know I had Ross to get me if I needed it.

The following aid station was the *big* aid station with actual food, sandwiches, muscle milk, etc. I had a full turkey sandwich and hung out with Ross and the boys for a little bit. Not long, but enough to get me back in good spirits. The next aid station had pizza. PIZZA! Now, I (as I am sure many of you) have read Ultra-marathon Man and when Dean Karnazes talks about eating pizza in the middle of a long, long run, I can't fathom the idea. But for some reason at that point PIZZA is what sounded like the best thing in the world. And the other riders concurred. We started praising the volunteers, telling them they were getting our vote for 'best aid station', and they loved it. I even went back for a second piece.

So, as I was riding down to Idaho Springs, I found my happy place. My really, really happy place. I was full, energized, I had seen my boys, knew I was going to finish it. Everything. Then it started raining... I mean thunderstorming... HARD. Ugh! Earlier in the day I had told myself that if it started thunderstorming, I was bagging it. No use riding in the cold, wet, with a chance of getting struck by lightning. Now, I was telling myself I am doing this EVEN in the thunderstorm. I might sag down from the top (afraid of descending a mountain in the rain-- really unsafe), but I was getting to the top even if I had to suffer in the rain the whole way. I was.

Word to the Wise: When caught in a thunderstorm in the mountains, seek shelter and wait for it to stop. I didn't, and wish I had. I saw others do it. Smarties.

By the time I got through Idaho Springs the rain had stopped and it was time to climb! 16 miles to the top. I was at mile 92. To put that in perspective, I had already done almost a century that included 2 mountains and now I was going to do the longest pass of the day. Just keep trucking, I told myself.

It was a long, slow climb, but I felt good doing it. It seems that I tend to draw strength the longer I go in an event. Plus, I kept thinking "Just 16 more miles". Funny how it changes perspective when you put certain adverbs and adjectives in front of things like "just", "only", "little", "short", etc. Plus, I was passing people along the way, so this gave me opportunities to talk with others, which made the time pass by better. I know. Who me? Strike up a conversation? Unthinkable. ;)

The part I probably liked best was the doublers- the people who rode both Evergreen-->Avon and then Avon --> Evergreen. Riding Sunday, a lot of the people were doing the back-to-back ride and I was in awe of them. They were an encouragement, awesome and I made sure I let them know that.

After Echo Lake it was still another 3 miles to the top. I finally reached an aid station, refilled, texted Ross to let him know I was on my way. At the top top, I stopped to put on my jacket for descending, celebrated with a few other riders that we were almost done and then started heading down and... FLAT. No frickin' way! Well, why not. I flipped my bike over and started changing my tire. (Ross had brought me more tubes, but no CO2). Then the SAG stopped to offer her bike pump. I used it and, as I was changing my tire, a thunderstorm rolled in. How opportune, a SAG was right here, I could pop in the vehicle and take a safe ride down the mountain versus chance riding in the rain with wash-out, bumps, wet brakes, etc. So what did I choose? The dumb way down the mountain.

And, as soon as I chose not to get in the SAG, I regretted it. The rain was cold, pelting, brutal. It was horrible. There was so much gravel and washout on the road, it was so, so, SO unsafe. I was miserable. MISERABLE. I rode slow enough not to get out of control, which only prolonged the cold, agony of it all. Not to mention how unsafe and stupid it was.

The only thing that made it slightly better was the view of the rainbow at the end. It was AWESOME! I don't think I have seen a rainbow like that since childhood and that really made me smile.

I crossed the finish and I was done! Chilled, wet, cold, but DONE!

All in all, I know this post may come off as negative, but that is not what I am meaning for it be. I struggled, I really did. But when I looked back at what I struggled with, it was the mental, logistical, weather-related factors that I did the struggling with. And, in the end, I conquered them. I expected this ride to be a test of my physical strength, but it turned out to be a test of my mental strength and my will. Looking back, I am so glad I stuck this day out. I learned a lot about myself and fighting through.

Comrades: The Finish

2011-06-16T06:48:00.000-07:00

Before I get to the end, I found a video from the beginning. This is the shosholooza (mining song) that was sung at the beginning to start off the day- the lyrics expressed the hardships of working in the diamond mines. Currently, it is also used in pop culture to convey messages of hope and solidarity for athletes during competitions or in other times of hardship and distress. It was sung in the corral as we lined up and it was the coolest thing to hear first hand.

Now to the end:

I crossed the line and received my medal, a patch and a time-stamped card—they told me in case anyone “disputed” that I finished(?). Ok. They directed me to move along and I told them I wanted to wait for a friend. Happily, I saw Larry come across the finish line a few minutes later. I congratulated him and then we went our separate ways to recoup for a little bit. I made my way to the International tent where I expected to find Ross… but he wasn’t there. I stretched and waited for a bit, but no Ross, so I went to collect my tog bag. I grabbed my bag, took a quick shower, changed and headed back to the International tent where I found Larry. We ate and chatted and talked about where Ross could be. Ross had an old cell of Larry’s on him, but he couldn’t remember the number…

Larry and I happy to be done!

Cory had come through with a 9:13. We chatted and she told me how there had been two 9-hour buses. One official, one not. She had first ran with the un-official pace group until the pacer realized he wasn’t going to make it in time and took off on the group. She then hooked up with the official 9-hour bus and the pacer too, was going too slow to make 9-hours. At one point, the pacer tried to rally everyone to run the last 10 miles (after run-walking the first 44 at a much slower pace). Needless to say, no one could do it, and from there on out everyone was on their own. Cory wasn’t too fussed about it for herself (she had finished last year with an 8:59:59), but I thought it was sad for the people that had depended on the pace group. Another reason I haven’t ever stuck with a pace group…

After a little bit, Ross came streaming into the tent. I saw him right away and let him know where I was. I was so happy to see him and asked him what he thought I did it in. He said 10 hours and you could tell he was trying to be optimistic for me. He was shocked when I told him under 9! We talked and figured out where we had missed each other on the course and then he told me about the incredible traffic getting into Pietermarizburg and into the stadium. It didn’t surprise me, the stadium was busting with people— it was such a lively atmosphere—and there were only getting more people as the time went on.

The International Tent itself had a sweet set-up. It was half shaded, so you could be in the shade or sun. One whole long edge of the tent was facing the cricket oval, so you could see the finishers running their last lap. And there was ample room for everyone, with the best part, some BEAN BAGS. I was in heaven as I sat on one and ate my chicken pita, rice and drinking my Castle Lite.

Me recouping in a bean bag.

As the time got closer to 12 hour cut-off there was such an air of relief and nervousness in the air, all at the same time. I kept seeing people coming into the tents with the largest grins ever—they had finished! And then other spectators glued to the track, just waiting to see their loved ones on the track- to know they are gonna finish. From where we were, we couldn’t see the finish line, but we had a clear view of a jumbotron televising the finish.

With about 10 minutes until the finish, the 12-hour bus arrived. PURE ELATION by everyone. I get all teary just watching it. These people have stuck together for 12 hours with one common goal, all supporting each-other and all finishing together. It is a beautiful thing. It takes over 2-minutes for all of the finishers to cross with their comrades.

Side note: South Africa televises all 12-hours of Comrades live EVERY year. 12-hours!!! On every station. I can’t even get highlights of the Boston Marathon here. Not to mention, they have record numbers of people tuning in every year in the 12^th hour. (My dad watched some of it online and said it was really well done.)

As the time ticked down, everyone was glued to watching the finish line. They have a cut-off outside of the cricket oval that I think is about 2 minutes before the finish. Basically, I think they let everyone they think could POSSIBLY make it to the finish in. After that, runners cannot even try to get there.

As I watched people stream in the stadium, I was cheering “GO! GO! GO!” I had no idea who I was cheering for, but I just wanted them to get to that finish line. There were people sprinting, stumbling, hobbling and some even assisting one-another. It was an intense time of anxiety and joy at the same time-- and I didn't even know these people!

With about a minute to go, the race director comes out in a suit. Stands on the finish line with his back to the crowd, gun in hand.

A number of security guards line up behind him, making just enough room to let the runners come through. As the time ticks down, the race director raises his hand with the gun in it.

Keep in mind, people are still streaming into the stadium. We are not talking about a few people, we are talking about a few hundred people in the last few minutes. At precisely 12:00:00, he fires a shot and the security guards make a human wall—literally blocking people from finishing. They were SECONDS away. And not allowed to finish.

I think the last one through as gun goes off

She got through the human wall. See the guys in yellow block everyone behind her.

I tried to find a video of the finish, but couldn’t. Here is one who didn’t make it

The end of the race was the most heart-breaking thing, but also why a number of runners race it. I was shocked to see all of the runners still streaming in, I thought there would be 1 maybe 2, not the masses that were here. I was saddened to see the numbers that were just seconds away from their goal, but imagined they’d be back next year and would make it—making the victory all the much sweeter.

As the race wrapped up, they played the shosholooza again over the loud speaker as we made our way out of the stadium and it was the perfect ending to the day for me.

Comrades: The Race

2011-06-10T14:36:00.000-07:00

The starting gun went off, although it sounded more like a cannon. Seriously, it was THAT loud. I started my watch. Even though Comrades is chip timed, it is really gun timed—from the time the gun goes off to the time the chip crosses the mat. Being in corral C, I started walking to the front with others. I am not sure how long it took me to cross the mat, maybe a minute or two. Then I was running through the streets. It was pretty slow, even in coral C, but that was more than ok with me, I didn’t think I coud run much faster and still achieve my goal of getting to halfway and feeling “good”.

Unfortunately, there is not much to say about the start of the race. We traveled through the city and it felt much like any other city marathon I have done. Except for the languages all around me. I had no clue what anyone was saying… and that was alright with me. So I just plugged along. Running. Not so fast, which scared me. I looked at my pace and it was rather slow. I wondered if my legs were going to show up today and told myself it was ok if they didn’t. I would be OK.

As I continued on, there were ups and downs and I wondered if I had crossed any of the *hills*. Comrades is known for 5 hill climbs—Cowies, Fields, Bothas, Inchanga and Polly Shorts (which, for clarification, is NOT short). I went up some pretty sizable hills and wondered if any of them were Cowies. I felt like such a novice and did not want to ask anyone to show my ignorance. About 10 miles in, I saw it. Cowies. It was longer and steeper than the others. I got to the top feeling ok. It was there I saw Cory from the start. I asked her if that was the first big climb (secretly, I was hoping it was the second), and she just said that she intentionally DID NOT pay attention to the “big” climbs only because the course was simply filled with lots and lots of climbs, so she doesn’t want to get hung up on just 5. Great.

I continued on with Cory for a bit and then she went on her merry way. Mile 14 came fast and I was at the bottom of Fields Hill. There were plenty of spectators—including ROSS! He gave me a quick kiss and congrats and sent me on my way. Now Fields Hill is pretty long and steady and I had read that running up it was a big mistake, but I felt good, so I continued up, running. It was at this point where (a) the sun was really out and you could start to feel the heat and (b) I started passing people. Lots of people. It seemed like in the first 12 miles or so, everyone was passing me, and by everyone, I mean EVERYONE. Granted, my strategy was to go out comfortable, but really I didn’t think that I would be passed by soooo many people. Looking back, my first split (the top of Cowies) had me somewhere in the 4,0000^th place.

Me running up Fields Hill

I got to the top of Fields and Larry came running up behind me. We chatted, I asked him how he was doing and he said he’d do better after halfway and I couldn't help but thinking "halfway-- yes! just get to halfway!". About a mile or two later, we separated. I think it was somewhere after the top of Fields Hill where it started getting really pretty. I commented on the scenery and was running alongside Cory and she said “this is the prettiest bit”. Now, not realizing how Aussie-English varies from American-English, I started taking pictures thinking this *bit* would be over soon. But really, by “bit” she meant “part”. And the beauty went on for many, many miles as we ran through the “Valley of 1,000 Hills”.

The start of the "pretty bit"

In training I had envisioned this part to look like Quincy. Quincy is a road by us that is18 miles of hill after hill. This was nothing close… and I was thankful for that. The hills were bigger here, but way more beautiful. I would even venture to describe them more like mountains. It was along this part of the route, too, where we got our share of downhill portions. While I was thankful for the downhill portions, I couldn’t help but think, “Crap! This is just more I am going to have to go up” (the course itself doesn’t hit it’s highest point until about 10k from the end).

Couldn't get over how beautiful it was up there!

More pretty bits

I hit Bothas Hill and was surprised on how big it “didn’t seem”. Don’t get me wrong, it’s big, but compared to some of the other “unnamed” hills on the course, Bothas just felt like it fit right in.

I think for me, this was my favorite part of the race. It wasn’t long before I came along the Comrades Wall of Honour (a wall that honors achievements of all who pass this way) and then I knew that we would be coming up to Arthur’s Seat soon.

Comrades Wall Of Honour

Arthur’s seat is described as “a niche cut into the cutting wall, which legend tells us was the spot where the famous Arthur Newton, 5 times winner of the 1920’s, used to sit for a breather while out running. Today runners are urged to pay homage to Mr. Newton with a greeting and a flower, which legend has it, ensures a great second half of the race.” So, great, where am I going to find a flower for dear Arthur? Oh look! There are volunteers handing them out! I got a kick out of this as I took one and continued running. It was still so beautiful, I had to stop to take more pictures. Then, it was time to toss my flower and tell Arthur what a stud he was and ask for his help along my second half. From there, it was down, down , down to halfway.

Me running with my rose

Paying homage to Dear Arthur

Halfway point in Drummond

Yay! As I passed through Drummond, I was excited to be halfway… and feeling “good”. And then I saw it—Inchanga. The fourth hill climb and all I can describe it as was daunting. It was long and rose from out of a valley, but somehow I was also relieved that I was already at the 4^th of the 5 climbs. I started up it, still running and that is when I noticed it. No one else was running. Like no one. I kept running, I felt like I could do it. But then I worried I was making some rookie mistake, so I walked a bit. Not much, but enough to ease my conscience.

As we made our way up the hill, someone told me, “when you reach the painted Indian, you are almost there.”

If by "almost" they meant, “you still have a quarter to half mile to go”, then I guess they were right.

Inchanga was also where I missed Ross! After Fields Hill, Ross had come straight to Inchanga, figuring it would do me good to see his face at the top. He was right, but since I didn’t know his plan, we totally missed each other. He caught the winners, Larry and a bunch of other runners, but not me. Oh well. He had fun.

Pict of some of the elites on Inchanga. They averaged 5-6 min/miles for the race. Crazy.

South African pride!

Larry at top of Inchanga

I got to the top of Inchanga and was happy to see a descent (even if it meant I would have to run back up somewhere else). At the bottom of the hill, there was someone bbq’ing (they call it a braii) and wanted to know what I wanted for lunch. While food did sound tasty all I could think was “no one’s eating that going this pace”.

I looked at my watch and assessed what I wanted to do. I had crossed halfway at 4:20. And I was feeling good. I knew I would slow down some, but not sure how much. Although my sights had originally been on a 10-11 hour race, they now switched to a 9 hour race. Over the last few days I had come to realize there was something mysterious about going sub-9 at Comrades—a special medal and honour almost. The very first man to win Comrades in 1921 ran a 8:59, so to finish in sub-9, you receive the Bill Rowan medal. And I think it was at this point when I decided I wanted it-- the medal and the honour.

As I continued on, I had to focus more on my nutrition, by this time it was getting a little harder to ingest stuff and all. I was happy as a clam to see boiled potatoes dipped in salt on the course! Oh were these just what my system needed.

As I plugged along, I passed more villages and the spectators were awesome. There were a bunch of kids. Then we went by the Enthembi School for the Disabled and I stopped to get some pictures with the kids—they line the course each year and are a big encouragement to the runners.

Local kids spectating and cheering!

Enthembi School for the Disabled

From there on out, I was primarily concentrating on getting to the end. My race belt started to feel heavy and I was wanting to ditch it. I knew I would see Ross at Camperdown (about 12 miles from the end), so I kept asking people how far till Camperdown? I got to Camperdown and no Ross (he was still waiting to see me at Inchanga), so I went on.

Plug, plug, plug. 10 miles to go. I was doing the math in my head, if I continue at sub-10 minute miles, I will finish the race in under 9 hours.

Then I saw it. Or thought I saw it. A big, big hill. “There goes my sub-9 race”, I thought. I asked someone if that was Polly Shorts. “No”, he said. “That is Little Polly. Polly Shorts is much longer and steeper than that Polly.” OK, I’m done now. I thought about it hard. I could risk it and really try to finish in under 9 hours and be heart broken if I didn’t, or take it easy from here on out and get a 9:05-9:10 time. But I really wanted that medal, so I decided to risk the heartbreak and I kept running. Kept plugging along, doing what I could. On the straightaways or downhills I was definitely running a sub-10 minute pace (even sub-9 and closer to 8s at times), but I didn’t dare and look at my watch when I was going uphill, I was too afraid of what it might say.

I got through Little Polly and was halfway up Polly Shorts run/walking when the 9-hour bus (pace group) came trudging up Polly Shorts behind me. Somewhere on Little Polly, I had heard two men talking about how they needed to stay ahead of the 9-hour bus if they wanted to finish in 9 hours. They commented on how the 9-hour pacer would book it in after the top of Polly Shorts and how they could not keep up that pace (the pace they quoted was in km/hour, so I wasn’t sure how “fast” it was, but from their tones, I understood it was pretty fast and did not have the confidence I could do it, either). So as the 9-hour bus caught up to me, I mustered up all the energy I could and kept running up Polly Shorts, making sure to stay ahead of the 9-hour bus.

Once at the top of Polly, it was 7 km to the end. Hallelujiah! And while it wasn’t ALL downhill, there was enough of it to make me happy. It was getting hot and I just wanted to be done. At every aid station (which were about ½ mile apart by this time), I was taking 1-2 Energades and downing them. All of them, and then needing more by the next aid station.

Larry caught me at an aid station with about 5 km to go. I was happy to see him, we ran for a bit together before I needed to take off. I just wanted to be done! I felt like “anything” could happen (ie, I could cramp with ½ mile to go) and then that would be the end of sub-9 race. So I went. I just wanted to be done. I ran and ran.

Where is the end? I thought. I knew that we would run around the cricket oval and finish in the middle—and that that stint was over ½ mile long. So where was this, I kept thinking… till I realized I was running ON the cricket oval. Silly me. There were fans and stands everywhere. I turned the corner and THERE was the finish line. I had made it! So, of course, I stopped to take a picture.

I had done it! Not only had I finished, but I had earned a Bill Rowan medal. In a race that is steeped in history and tradition, this meant the world to me! (more post race stories to come)

Comrades: Getting to the start line!

2011-06-07T16:18:00.000-07:00

So my last post was all about how I felt ready for Comrades and whatever it would bring me. And I was. What I wasn’t ready for were flight delays and lost luggage. Agh!
On our way to South Africa, our flight out of Denver kept getting delayed, to the point where when we got to DC, Ross and I were literally sprinting between terminals in order to catch our connecting flight to Johannesburg. It was like one of those scenes you see in the movies where the actors get there as the flight attendents were closing the doors—only the actors were us and it was for real. Coincidentally, we made it to Jo-berg (and on to Durban), but our bags did not.

Just happy to be on a South African-bound plane

When I found out that I might not get my bags in time, I let myself absorb the information, then pulled myself together and formed a Plan B. I had worn my trail shoes and a pair of compression socks on the plane, so I could run in those. I then would purchase what else I NEEDED at the expo the following day. To help things, I met another runner at the hotel (Beth, my new SA BFF) and she volunteered to help out with anything extra I might need that couldn’t find. I ended up borrowing a singlet from her in case mine didn’t arrive. Regardless, I wanted MY stuff.

Side note: I have always heard #1 rule of racing is don’t race with anything new on race day. I have learned (via Franny—Marathon Tours Guide whom Beth was traveling with) that the #1 rule is actually don’t travel without your kit. I would have to say Franny knows her stuff because it was looking like I was going to be racing in all new apparel regardless of intent.

Ross and I spent Saturday morning at the expo with Larry and had a great time.

What do you mean this isn't the right place for me?

Larry and I trying to figure out my pace...?

Beach = excellent place to relax

Got some new stuff and spent the afternoon relaxing. Dinner was pasta up in the Berea with Larry.

When we contacted the airlines after dinner on Saturday night, the baggage office was closed, so Ross jumped in our rental car and went up to the Durban airport to get it all sorted out—turns out our baggage was coming in on a flight from Jo-berg at 9:30 p.m. So, Ross waited to collect the luggage and then returned to the hotel around 11. I sorted out my race necessities by midnight, then… couldn’t sleep! I was so worried about only getting 3+ hours of sleep and here I was getting none. I hadn’t really felt all that nervous, so I wasn’t sure if it was anxiety, jet lag, or side effects from my malaria meds. Either way, I couldn’t get my body to rest. I watched the time tick down and thought “I am doomed”.

Ross woke at 3:15 as scheduled. We talked, I was worried. He was Mr. Pollyanna as we got ready and went for breakfast. At breakfast I thought about a conversation I had had with Nina the other weekend about how sometimes we think about what could have been “If I wasn’t sick…”, “if I didn’t get anxiety in the water…”, etc. I decided. “No excuses”, whatever the day brings me, it brings me. I am sure there were plenty of other runners out there who also didn’t sleep… after stressing out about lost luggage for the prior day.

Me & Beth in our warm-up shirts, getting ready to leave the hotel

The start was about ¾ mle from our hotel, so we walked on down. I had to say goodbye to Ross outside of the runners area and we both went on our journies for the day. Once inside, there was a jovial spirit and chatted it up with a few runners in the tog bag (drop bag) line.

Where I said goodbye to Ross

Comrades has a number of traditions, one of which is included on your bib numbers. The numbers are all color-coded (blue for international, green for runners who have completed 10+ Comrades, striped green for those going for their 10^th, orange for those doing it for their back-to-back medal, etc) as well as information about the runner—their name, how many times they have run Comrades, which medals they have won, etc. This all made for some good conversation starters.

Now, onto the corral. I got in there a little before 5 and people were a little more focused on the race at hand. I did end up chatting it up with Cory. She had her hair down, make-up on, and an Australian flag pinned to her waist. Crazy! This was her 4^th time, so we talked about that and our expectations for the day.

Side note: If you are going to run Comrades as an International runner, try to wear something from your country (like Cory's Aussie flag). Spectators will cheer for you like crazy. In Cory’s case, they often cheered “Go British Girl!”, but at least they were trying.

Prior to all of this, I hadn’t set any hard time goals for myself. It is hard in a race like this because it is longer than anything I have run in training plus the terrain is unknown and difficult. For those of you unfamiliar with the Comrades course it is extremely hilly and runs from Durban to Pietermarizburg (or vice versa depending on the year). This was an UP run year, so I would be running from sea level to about 2500 ft in the first 40 miles, then rolling hills till the end. I knew my climbing pace is a lot slower than my normal pace, plus I would not have the respite (downhills) I have when running normal hills to help lower the pace.

That being said, my #1 goal was to finish enjoying the day. I had trained so hard, read so much about the race and I wanted to experience first hand all that I had heard. Second goal was to run it in sub-11 hours. 11 hours was the traditional cut-off time for the race before it was legnthened to 12 hours in 2003. Symbolically, I wanted to run the race by the standards originally set. (45% of the whole field finishes between 11 & 12 hours. It is that hard.) If I had a GREAT day, I was hoping for a 10-10:30. (Larry had talked me into getting a 9:30 and 10 hour pace bands and I thought he was crazy.) BUT, I also told myself, whatever happens, happens. I put in the training and if I end up with an 11:59:59—I would be happy! -- I would probably be pretty let down if I didn’t finish… but that would be a different story to tell.

From the front

Me on the inside

So, there I stood in the darkness, waiting to start with 54+ miles of uphill in front of me. The announcer started talking, then it was the South African national anthem. I stood there and had people all around me singing it—it was pretty awesome. Then it was the Shosholoza, a mining song/chant which expressed the hardships of working in the diamond mines. Currently, it is also used in pop culture to convey messages of hope and solidarity for athletes during competitions or in other times of hardship and distress. This is another Comrades tradition to sing it, both at the start and sometimes along the run (again, if you know the words, which I did not).

Very symbolic in nature of the Comrades itself. The city hall bell then tolled, the cock crowed (another tradition) and we were off!!!

5 Days And Counting...

2011-05-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting for this weekend for awhile. Don't believe me?

My official countdown started 80 days ago...

It actually started way before that, but that is when I started to put it on paper to really focus to keep myself motivated. I am a visual person, so it helped. (Another trick I did is here.) Seeing the mileage go up gave me confidence and a sense of accomplishment. If I were to doubt myself, I just look at my training.

People have been asking how I am feeling?
My mom was astonished when I talked to her on Sunday that I wasn't frazzled - both for the race and the planning, packing, etc. and I thought about this and figured out why...

Did the research.
There are a number of resources you can tap into to prepare yourself for any race: internet, blogs, friends, books, etc. Not only can you research the actual race, but on all the components that might affect you as well on race day: long distance nutrition, running in heat, running up hill, etc. Thankfully, Comrades has a great website and numerous fanatics, so information was not at a minimum. I have read articles, reached out to Comrades veterans, grilled friends on their ultra experiences, etc. to help gain some insight on how to make this a successful day for me.

Did the training.
No matter what you are training for, there comes a time when no matter what you do from there to raceday, it's not going to matter. At this point, you need to sit back and trust your training.

Mentally ready.
To me, I have been thinking about this for the past 6-9 months, so I pretty much have it in my head what I want to do. I have thought about all the "what if"s and thought about how I would answer them.
I think that is an important thing for each athlete, to have in your head what you want to do and how you are going to do it. It's the unknowns that make me nervous and, in this case, I have eliminated a number of the unknowns and feel prepared to handle those that come my way.

Ready to take what the day gives me.
All the factors above make it really easy for me to roll with what the day gives me. I feel like I have done everything in my power to prepare myself and now it is just a matter of putting my body to the test and seeing what happens.

So here I sit. Ready to Roll.

Running Collegiate Peaks

2011-05-18T19:54:00.000-07:00

What better way to top out a weekend in Buena Vista without a little jaunt up into the mountains?

I missed the Collegiate Peaks Trail Run by a weekend, so I thought I would just run the course. After all, I had all the information on how to do it. The race itself is one or two 25-mile loops depending on which distance you register for. And, for those of you not familiar with it, it is a doozy of a climbing race.

Elevation map ~ 8,000 - 9,400 ft.

Sunday morning I woke up and just prayed the weather - and my body - would hold up on me for my last long training run before Comrades. Ideally, I wanted to do a 25 mile loop and then an out-and-back somewhere between 10-15 miles more.

I started out with cloudy skies and cold weather and just plugged along. With the weather, the beautiful scenery was muted and, honestly, I was more worried about what the day would bring me. I ran a mile into town and then started the course. As I ran back out of the town, I settled into a nice pace. I got to where the road turns to dirt road and it wasn't so bad. Whew! Looks like the rest would be runnable.

Got to mile 3.5 and realized I was supposed to hit a trail. Couldn't find a trail, so I ventured up the fire road more. Then onto another road and hit the trail I wanted to be on. While trail is ALWAYS fun, there were a lot of steep ups and downs (more so than the fire road). What it made me extremely aware of were my quads and how much they hurt on the way down.

I looked up and... was that snow up there?

Surely I wasn't going to go up that high.

I continued on and hit about mile 7.5 and found the water Ross and I had left. Then it was my first real downhill. Yay!

But as you can see by the elevation map above. All good downhills are only followed by uphills. And there was definitely plenty of that on this course. So, up, up, up I went.

I guess I was going that high. Snow. Seriously? It was 70 the day before down below.

As I continued climbing I really worried about my quads and the second half of the loop. Not so much the uphills, but I knew there was a long, STEEP downhill towards the end of the loop and I was worried about my quads. They were already screaming at me. So instead of looping around, I opted for an out and back and turned myself around at little over 13 miles.

Turn around point

As I headed back I realized a little HOW MUCH I had gone up. I now had gravity on my side and watched my average pace tick down. Never as much as you want, but down none-the-less. I was VERY happy to see my water station again. Refilled and on my way. About this point, I realized how much my legs hurt. A lot. It was odd because generally it is something else that hurts, but today it was my legs.

On the way down. I look like I feel. Tired.

As I bottomed out and headed back to town, I really assessed my leg situation and weighed my options. My nutrition was good, so I had the energy, but was it worth it? Once I hit the 25-mile mark where Ross was to meet me, I called Charley to chat and we decided to cut it short. Probably the best decision EVA. Two weeks away from my race I really did not want to do anything stupid or push myself too hard. I had had a good climbing run at 8,000 - 9,250 ft and worked on my nutrition (one of my major goals). It was time to call her quits and finish her up in the morning. I was happy and so was my family.

From there, it was some chili, Mix1 and onto the hot springs for recovery.

As for the run the next day - the "last" 15 miles - KILLED IT. And I feel great about it!

Ordinarily, I think I would have felt like a failure for not completing my 35-40 mile goal that I set out to do, but I don't. 40 miles on that course so close to my race was an ambitious goal. I am proud of what I did do and that I had the wherewithal to do the right thing in this situation. As I was told by a Comrades veteran the next day, "You probably saved your Comrades by stopping when you did."

Here I sit 12 days out from Comrades. Tapering and ready for whatever the day brings me. That run may have taught me more about myself than my legs, nutrition, etc. It taught me to (smartly) go for a lofty goal and if, by chance, it doesn't happen then to be very proud of what you do achieve. I have put in the training and the day will be bring me what the day brings me. No regrets.

Ross' Xtreme Adventure!!! (race)

2011-05-14T20:39:00.000-07:00

After Ironman, Ross really didn't feel like racing for awhile. He had had his share of swim/bike/running to last him a lifetime. Or so he thought.

This past winter Ken decided to ask him to do an adventure race and... game on!

Adventure Racing involves a number of disciplines that all vary depending on the race, but what they all DO include is finding (a) your own course and (b) multiple checkpoints over the course, which make it in the "not for me" category. I like WELL-MARKED courses and I HATE being lost. But, I DO love supporting my husband in his endeavors and new places, so staying home was not really an option.

So, it was off to Buena Vista for us this weekend. For those of you who have never been here, it is GORGEOUS! It is about 8,000 feet in altitude with fifteen 14'ers in view. It's beautiful just about any way you turn.

Friday evening, Ross and Ken went to the pre-race meeting and got all their info. Fortunately, Lori came along as crew (as I would have no clue what I was doing) and Friday night night was devoted to a good dinner and the guys getting their logistics together.

Saturday morning was off and to "downtown" Buena Vista. I let Lori and the guys go ahead to get all situated. Believe it or not, traveling with our kiddos can be a little distracting.

I know this picture is blurry, but I like it b/c it kinda captured Ross' pre-race jitters before we arrived.
He didn't know I was there.

I think having the boys there actually helped.

Last minute plotting of where they think they need to run for their race.

Before the big dance

And off they go

They started off running and had to navigate up trails and such, visiting checkpoints along the way-- if they miss a checkpoint, they have to go back and find them before they are allowed to go to the next leg. The only thing anyone knows is where the transition to the next leg is. So that is where I took the boys.

Ross and Ken heading in to the transition after running for 1:07 up trails and through the mountains.

Ross' run report: Very challenging, but scenic and beautiful.

The guys were both in good spirits after the run and thankful to be done. They quickly changed into rain gear. I can only imagine how cold that water was. Yikes. Now it was off to the kayak.

All decked out

Down to the water

Here is where my camera battery died. Ultimate bummer. I really wanted to get some picts of them getting into the water. The river was high and the rapids looked not-so-nice. Regardless, I was excited for them and their trip. Ross had never kayaked before, so this was gonna be interesting.

After putting in, we rushed to the next transition. With the water running so high, we figured they would be done pretty fast... and they were. About 40 minutes later I spotted Ross' neon yellow jacket paddling up to the shore. Again, both in high spirits. I guess a number of racers had rolled, so they were happy they managed to keep upright through the whole ordeal. Success!

This transition, Lori and I had a bit of trouble putting Ross' wheel on, so we thought he knew the "secret", but he did not. Oh no! Lori and I put on our biggest puppy dog eyes and asked another team's support crew if they could help us out with Ross' bike (they totally looked like they knew what they were doing). And they did. Thankfully they were able to do a short-term fix for Ross' bike- a feat I will forever be grateful for. Lori offered them money but they would not take it by any means. I love nice people. So, after a 35 minute transition, Ross and Ken were on their way to their last leg.

For me, I took the kids to a park, had a picnic and charged my camera battery. Then it was off to the finish line to cheer them in.

Ross' Bike Report: A little technical, a lot of climbing, exciting/the downhill was very fun. Glad they didn't miss the last checkpoint and have to go back UP (like some other teams).

Riding through the finish line together!

Boys VERY proud of their father

Glad to be done. Smiling, just like they were all day!

Time for some recovery drink

Mixes just right with post-race food

Cheyenne Mountain 50K

2011-04-24T20:16:00.000-07:00

I have been really excited about this race from the get-go not only because it fits in perfectly with my training for Comrades, but because my friends, Andrea and Steve, were putting it on. Over the months I have got to witness them in their planning stages, research, give them feedback, help with a little design, etc. and so I was excited to be a part of the event and see it all come together for them.

Logo design. Not my strong suit, but I was happy with this one. :)

Even though Colorado Springs is only an hour away, we decided to make it a mini-vacay and have the whole family go. So Friday morning I woke up to Hunter in my face telling me HOW EXCITED he was to go to Colorado Springs. Friday afternoon it was off to CO Springs to pick up my packet, dinner at Rasta Pasta-- YUM, and then checking into/swimming the hotel.

The kids LOVE traveling with their suitcases. Even for a night.

Saturday morning we were up and off to the race at no other than-- Cheyenne Mountain!

I figured this race would be a great race for my Comrades training due to the length (50K) and the climbing-- any race with "mountain" in the name is certain for some and this one did not disappoint.

The weather was a little on the chilly side, so we hung in the car till almost race time. Then it was time to go!

A little national anthem with the color guard. Very moving and patriotic.

Quick hug from Andrea-- friend and race director.

Ready to run-- so excited!

Off I go!

We all took off and settled into a nice pace. We were immediately winding up and while I told myself I would take it easy the first lap around, I was exerting a little more than I think was probably smart... but that is what I think racing will do to you sometimes.

The trail meandered up and up. The trail itself was nice. Not too technical but enough variety to keep you always aware. And... I can't help but say that I just love running out in nature. It's harder. It's slower. But it has its own rewards.

About 2.5 miles in we hit an aid station, fully stocked, but kept on running. The trail winds up some more, then down, then more up. It was constantly changing and that was nice. After winding up, you circle around and come back down, hitting the same aid station about mile 6.5.

While I was out and about on the trail, there were some other (equally as important) races starting down below. (1) the 25k, then (2) THE KIDS RACE.

Off they go!

Run, Hunter, Run!

Linc trying to catch his older bro!

Medals and certificates! Thanks for the fun times for my little men!

After making your way back down from the first section of the trail, you pass by the start/finish area around mile 8 (along with another aid station). I was happy to see Ross and the boys hanging out and playing.

I think my favorite picture from the day

Then it is off to the second part of the first loop, another route up and around. As you headed out that way, the wind was brutal, but once you started climbing again, you were somewhat sheltered and the wind became less of an issue. Then, it started snowing. I tried to get a picture of this, but you can't see the flurries.


Windy, exposed part. Brutal, but beautiful.

The second part of the loop you wind up, up (with a little rolling) till you reach the top of Tallyn's and then circle back around and down again.

Winding my way up to Tallyn's.

More climbing-- yay

So after reaching the top of the second climb, it is mostly down to which my body, or rather my heart rate, said "thank you". Down, down, down. Mile 16.68 I passed by the start/finish again and off on the second loop.

The second loop was a pretty lonely loop in that I was nowhere near anyone. By this time, everyone had spread out and evidently I wasn't doing anyone's pace. The good news is that I was doing better than most people thus far in that I was passing people without anyone passing me. My legs were doing ok, but I could tell by my pace that my nutrition was off. Real off. So I started playing with things till I found my Perpeteum solids and they seemed to be doing the job.

Before I knew it, I was on the top of the second climb and heading back to the finish. With only about 5 miles to go, I felt good... and fast. I think it is the only time all day that I saw some sub-8 paces on my Garmin... At the last aid station, about 2 miles from the finish, Beth was there with a walkie-talkie and I asked her to make sure Ross knew I was coming, so she did.

When I reached the end, the boys were there, waiting to run into the finish with me.

I was happy to be done. The course measured a little long (33 miles vs. 31), but the longer run actually worked in even better for my training. And besides, it's not an ultra if it's measured accurately, right? It was a long day and I learned a lot-- basically about my nutrition, heart rate and climbing pace-- all of which I plan to focus on improving in the next 34 days.

The race itself was a HUGE success!!! It had an awesome trail and course, well-stocked aid stations, friendly volunteers, fun swag (did I mention the gloves and t-shirt I got!), plenty of activity for the spectators, just overall good day! I am so proud of my friends, Andrea and Steve, for putting it on and I look forward to many other great events by them.

You can check out their website here

Running America

2011-04-15T19:48:00.000-07:00

I am not sure what has come over me. Ok, maybe it is fear. Nerves. Anxiety. A combination of all three? But I have turned to trying to soak in as much as I can about running, ultra-running, Comrades, everything. So when I was at Runners Roost the other day, I picked up an invite to a book launching/documentary screening on, you guessed it, ultra-running. The book is written by Marshall Ulrich and the documentary follows his and Charlie Engles journeys as they attempt to run from San Francisco to New York City-- very appropriately titled...

While what I was expecting in watching the documentary was another feel good story about running, how it is good for you and "look at what I can do"...this was not that movie. And I am glad it was not.

Set in Sept-November of 2008 (think Wall Street bailout, presidential debates, etc), the men were running across the country at a time when change (or the lack of) was affecting everyone. When movement forward was on the forefront of everyone's minds. While the runners themselves did not touch on these subjects, the film did in both dialogue and editing style.

Over the two hours that the saga played out, we watched beautifully composed running shot after beautifully composed running shot, juxtaposed against the hardships the runners faced along their route. Now here's the twist, the director threw in some very real and gritty commentary from fellow Americans. The interviews were not only skillfully art directed, but the subjects were carefully picked and the content of the conversation touched on elements that made you question things like what direction you want your life to take, what it you believe being an American means, is change always good and so much more.

At first I found a very large disconnect in the two storylines playing out, however the more I thought about it, the more I appreciated it. Too many running films talk about just that; running. That is it. Sometimes they will be focused on getting people more active, fighting childhood obesity, etc. but not often about some deeper seeded meanings.The movie itself asked you to ask more of yourself.

I found the way the film was shot even lent itself to this theme in its cinematography. When you watch the film, you will see that the runner and/or interviewee is rarely the center of the screen. Rather, the subject will be slightly to severely off-center letting the surroundings take up the majority of the space. We are not in control of our environment, rather a product of it. How we move through it can and will make all the difference in the experience we take out of life.

As Charlie and Marshall make their way across the U.S. you see them face their inner demons and battle through what they are going through. At the same time, you gain the perspective of a group of Americans (very different from Charlie and Marshall) and how they are choosing to navigate through life in tough economic and political times.

So as not to spoil anything, I won't give away the ending, but I will say that it tied the two storylines together. It completed the story, but at the same time, left me and Ross with plenty to talk and think about. I guess that is what I like in a movie.

For me, I think this documentary was a winner. I found it to be artfully directed with more than one meaning to the story. I like when you take something like a story about running and make it bigger than "a story about running". I think I like this because that is often what running is to people... to me. Yes, running is a form of exercise. But often enough it is so much more. A stress reliever. A release. A way to test your limits. A way to fight your inner demons. A means to achieve a goal. It can be a lot of things to a lot of people.

Ross and I with Marshall after he signed our books

Like the movie, I am hoping his book has a bigger meaning, too.

The Platte (Double) Half Marathon

2011-04-11T06:21:00.000-07:00

It all started when Charley asked me if I would be up for running the Platte Half Marathon, then turning around and running back to the start line. HECK NO! I, mean, run away from food, friends and fun??? So I replied that if he thought I would benefit from running 26.2 that day, I would run from the finish to the start and then start with everyone to run back to the finish-- and the plan was on!

So yesterday morning it was up early (like almost always) and then down to the finish line. Thankfully, there are a number of factors that make the Platte pretty easy to run backwards:

It is a point-to-point
It is pretty much a straight shot along a river trail-- easy to navigate.
The course is open to the public-- many people hate this, but it worked for me yesterday.
The course goes "up" in elevation from the finish to the start, so the "harder" leg was first for me.

I started off running and around mile 3, Elizabeth met me. She had to get in a 20-miler, so she opted to run part of it with me. We continued on running, chatting, etc. E had warned me that she wasn't much of a talker, but that wasn't really the case. Chatted the whole way.

Before long, Charley was there, checking in on us. He did this twice just on the way up and three times on the way back-- thanks, Charley! We started passing aid stations that actually had volunteers setting up. We didn't see any other runners out on the course, so I am pretty sure we were the only ones doing the FULL marathon. ;) As we got to Littleton, Elizabeth navigated us through the town towards the start line. One volunteer shouted out that the race went the other way and she shouted back, "we're running it backwards!", like duh!

But we timed it perfectly. As we rolled into the start line the announcer announced that the race would start in 6 minutes. Elizabeth ran and filled our water bottles and I did a quick wardrobe change, dropped my drop bag (with everything I had been previously carrying) and then we were in the corral.

Not too bad for an relaxing 13.2 up to the start...

Ready to run the second half. Bye-bye camera!

So, the second half started and we were off. Getting running again, I felt like molasses. A lot of that is due in part that we had jumped in the corral ahead of our pace time, so everyone was flying out of there at 6 and 7-minute miles. The other part of that is probably due to the fact that my legs were tired.

On the way back, we (Elizabeth and I) didn't talk much. Early on, we set a pace of about 8:45/mile and I was much more concentrated on keeping that going. The aid stations were every two miles and all was well for awhile. Elizabeth had said she would keep with me for at least five miles, but she stuck with me till she got back to her car (10 miles). She told me to keep picking people off and I realized that, as slow as we had been going, I think that we were actually gaining some speed (not much), but some. The last three were on my own, and by that time, I just wanted to get through it. Around the last aid station, I saw both Charley and Sonja and it gave me a boost. Mile 12 is the only hill on the course and I was happy that I was gaining speed going up. At the top of the viaduct/hill you look to the left and there is a cool view of downtown Denver. I enjoyed it, then picked it up to get to the end.

Finished and happy, I ran into some friends from the RMTC and even more from the Roost. We all chatted about our race and I got to meet a Chris Sullivan, who had run Comrades last year. He had plenty of excellent info on the race and then I realized I had read an article by this guy! (Comrades article-- go to page 12-13) I retrieved my drop bag and got my cell. Charley had texted "Protein. NOW!!! I looked back at the food line which, in the 1/2 hour I'd been chatting, had grown to be 3 blocks long. Serves me right for talking. I was STARVING, so I grabbed a beer, some MIX 1 (protein, right?) and headed home-- with a stop at Qdoba on the way! I figured I deserved it, right?

RMTC Moab Spring Training: Last Day

2011-04-02T18:10:00.000-07:00

Today was our last day in Moab and my longest run. 3.5-4 hours and/or 20-22 miles. Either way, I was a tidge bit nervous as I had put my body and, more particular, my legs through a lot so far that weekend. On top of that, this was gonna be a climbing run and I had no one to run with-- everyone else had a shorter run. I knew I had to start early in order to get done in time to recover and get checked out of the hotel, so it was a 6 a.m. start time for me. 8:30 for the rest of the crew running.

I got up and got dressed and off I went. About 8 minutes in I heard my phone say I had a text. Who would be texting at 6:08 a.m.? So I stopped, got my phone from my pack to see it was Charley. "Anyone running this morning?" it said. I texted back I was already on the trail. I got off the trail and made my way up to the road. Sitting there at the road was Charley in his truck. Unbeknownst to me, Charley had been waiting in the hotel lobby for me. He checked in with me and, even though I had a headlamp on, he drove along slightly in front of me for awhile till the sun came up.

The moon as I headed up the canyon

The road snaked up and I ran along through the darkness, just trying to keep it steady. Around 5 miles, the road turned to gravel, the sun came up and Charley took on up the road to drop off some water.

Making my way up the canyon

I continued running up the canyon. Shortly after, Charley came running back down and paced me up the rest of the climb, showed me where the water was and took off for the day. Got to the top and then the rest of the run was down into and through the canyon. Once I dropped down inside, it was just as gorgeous as the sun came up. I ran along for about 4 miles, then turned around at the 11 mile mark.

Sun rising in the canyon

11-mile mark. Time to turn-around and head home... well, back to the hotel.

At the top of the canyon again, mile 15.5.

From the top of the canyon, it was down, down, down-- with a little up. I guess I didn't realize that in the darkness on the way out. Oh well. I felt good. I was happy my legs were holding up after such a long weekend. As I got further down, I saw some of my fellow rmtc'ers heading out. That juiced me up and was fun to see-- even got some high fives. :) And I just kept heading back. It is funny. I find the longer the runs get, sometimes the *easier* (although never truly easy) the ends get. When you are doing 22, it is easier to think "only 3 to go", versus when you are doing, say, a 6-miler.

Getting back, I realized this run was a real confidence builder for me. I did it. With climbing. By myself. In the dark (with Charley's help). On tired legs. And I still held a decent pace considering.

Once back, it was all about recovery. A coupla Mix 1's and a great BIG breakfast at the Jailhouse Cafe. Perfect way to end a weekend of hard training.

It was an AWESOME weekend with the RMTC and I can't thank the officers enough for putting it on, everyone I rode with (Jen, in particular, for sticking with me), my roomie for tolerating me, HR for traveling with us and Charley for all of his help and guidance! What a weekend... followed by a high-mileage week. Gotta love the it.

RMTC Moab Spring Training: Day Three

2011-04-01T14:55:00.000-07:00

Day three was BRICK day... although so was Day 2, sorta.

Everyone started out with a ride up to Deadhorse Point. Now, at first I didn't realize the significance of it, but then when I heard it was the place where Thelma & Louise drove off the cliff-- I was so excited!

I started out with my trusty riding partner (Jen) and Patty. We had a good ride up to Deadhorse Point and when I say up, I mean UP. It wasn't steep, but it was climb, climb, climbing up for about 15 miles.

Beginning of the ride- no climbing yet.

Being from Wisconsin, when I saw this sign, I didn't think anything of it.

Till I realized I would be sharing the road with them. No biggie, just had to move over a bit.

Somewhere along the way, the winds really picked up and I got chilled to the bone. When we were entering the park, Jen and I both commented we might turn around after the lookout just because we were both soooo cold. When we reached the lookout point, Patty decided to go on and Jen and I stopped for some pictures- GORGEOUS!!!

After the park, we were a little less chilled, so we decided to ride on. We made it to Canyonlands National Park, but since we only wanted to get about 60 miles in, opted to head back without entering the park.

On the way back, I was floored. I must have ridden up the first 15 miles without really looking around, cuz on the way back the views were BEAUTIFUL. I couldn't believe how much I missed. I even pulled over twice to stop and take pictures (and you know me... it's gotta be good for me to actually stop).

We got back to the car and it was off with the bike shoes and on with the running shoes. I had a 75 minute run and took off towards a dirt trail only to be stopped with a "PRIVATE PROPERTY- NO TRESPASSING" sign. Rats! Back on paved trail and went down a mile to see a nice dirt road running UP Gemini Bridges Road-- SWEET!

Again, instantly in heaven. I was running up, up, up the side of a mesa/mountain/whatever they call them out there. There was an adventure race going on at the same time, so as I was running up there were mountain bikers coming down. I had a blast just running up and looking around. Again, the views were just to die for.

Adventure Racers- I cheered them on!

View from the top-- looking down.

I made it to the top, there was some rolling terrain and then I dropped back down into the other side of the canyon.

After I ran down and into another canyon- my turnaround point.

My watch hit 40 minutes and I knew it was time to book it back "home". I took one last picture and off I went, up the other side of the canyon and down, down, down Gemini Bridges road - fun - and then back to the car. The timing was perfect, as a bunch of other rmtc'ers had just finished their bricks and were recovering with some much needed fluids (work hard, play hard) and I was so happy to have found a trail to run. (Not suprisingly, I learned that it wasn't that hard out there.)

Another day in the books, we headed back to the hotel to recover. Later that night it was out to dinner at the Moab Brewery- yum! Where we all met up and had a delicious meal. Again, I was slacking on the picts, but we had a great time- all 30+ of us!

RMTC Moab Spring Training: Day Two

2011-03-29T19:15:00.000-07:00

Day two started with....ARCHES NATIONAL PARK. Third trip to Moab, first trip to Arches. Definitely not one to miss.

Jen, Maria and I-- ready to roll!

We started behind the group and really wanted to have a chilaxing day- well, as much as you can on this ride. I warned Jen I took a lot of pictures, to which she said "I am cool with stopping for pictures." Little did she know, I don't really stop for pictures.

Now, I was told that there was 10 miles of climbing, then all was good, so when I saw the first ascent into the park, I wasn't that surprised.

Going into the park-- UP.

And more UP.

The climbing was hard (especially since I hadn't done any since last summer) but the views were AMAZING, so it made it all worth it.

After awhile, we reached Balanced Rock.

Considering this is a national treasure (and we wanted to make sure we weren't lost),
we stopped for the picture.

Shortly after, we turned off to go to the windows section.

Here there were a bunch of cool formations that were, you guessed it, windows.

We hit ten miles and were still going up (and some down) so I realized that "it can't be all down after 10", as we were doing a 50 mile out and back-- sometimes ignorance is bliss.

From there, it was down to Delicate Arch. Evidently, you have to hike to see the delicate arch, so...no picture. Robbed.

And then it was up, up, up to Devil's Playground.

Again, more really cool rocks. It was here that we kinda caught up with some people and it was fun to be part of a group again. As we made our way down, up, and then down again, I tried to snap some more cool pictures. Note: The day was overcast, so these pictures don't do the scenery justice.

Looking back on Arches

Patty & Charley leading the charge home.

Kelly's favorite rocks (and Joey's IMMOO bum)

I love the mountains!

So, I thought nothing could top THAT ride. It was gorgeous and... exhausting. But I was wrong!!!

I got back to the hotel and loads of people were (a) done for the day or (b) going out for a short run. I, on the other hand, had a 90-minute run. I was supposed to do it later in the day, but I felt like if I didn't go then, then I wasn't going to go. So I refueled and off I went.

I was less than excited since my directions for the run since they had me on a paved road for most of it. Not too crazy about paved roads these days, especially in a place with so many trails. So about a mile into my run, I spotted a trail and off I went. It was pretty fun stuff and took me up a hill, then I realized I was running on private land, so I exited...before I got shot. Back on my paved road, I got a little farther and whoolah! Another trail. This one was public land and just said motorized vehicles were not to enter that way. Not a motorized vehicle, off I went!

The trail is calling me...

Once on my trail, my mood immediately changed. It was like an adventure. Up, down, around. I saw a trail that went UP, so I took it.

"Come run up me!" this trail is shouting!

At the top it was kind of a "make your own trail" system, so I did.

Me on top of the world... or at least on top of Moab.

Then, for the sake of not getting lost-- or falling off-- I went back down and continued more on my designated trail till I hit 50 minutes. Sad I was heading home, I still enjoyed the views going the opposite way.

THIS is why you should come to Moab-- SO BEAUTIFUL!

I got back to the hotel absolutely DONE for the day and ready for a glass of wine. I was happy as can be for my little adventure... knowing it wouldn't be my last this weekend!

RMTC Moab Spring Training: Day One

2011-03-28T05:23:00.000-07:00

A lot of people were curious-- Moab, again? Yes. It really has become one of my favorite places over the past two years... and I haven't even touched on all that there is to do there. It is a haven for running, camping, atv'ing, mountain biking, sight seeing, anything. (My favorite being trail running.) My in-laws even had to come back twice within two years from Wisconsin- they loved it that much. It is gorgeous and just had my heart the first time I came with Beth and the crew.

So when my plans to race the Buffalo Run (a race I was really looking forward to on the same weekend) fell through, I asked Charley if I should do Moab. Why, of course. Yay, for me. So, here is how the weekend started off. Three girls, three bikes and one SUV FILLED with stuff.

Our smiling faces as we head off to Moab

Stoked and excited, off we went through the mountains. The plan was to get to Grand Junction and stop to ride the Colorado Monument ride there. We got there and winds were a gusting 40 mph + it was spitting some rain. Yuck. We opted for the Irish pub instead.

Lunch - done.

As we headed out from Naggy McGee's, it had cleared up and the sun had come out. It would have been perfect for a ride, had our bellies not been filled with fried food and beer. Bummer. ONTO MOAB!

Rolling into Moab, the sun was out and we decided to hit up a ride before we even got to the hotel with Nina, Charley and Patty.

First ride was on Potash Road, just north of town. It was the perfect first ride-- a *little* protected by wind, gorgeous and no real climbing. The ideal way to get my legs under me for the weekend.

Starting off in the shadows is always kinda cool

Sun peeking out as we rode along

Probably my favorite picture of this day-- love being surrounded by God's creations!


Halfway Picture

Heading home

More fun on the bike

I was trying to get a picture of Charley, and did, kinda...

Sun setting...

The ride ended where we started and I was happy the weekend to have gotten on its way. I knew this was just a taste of what was to come and so excited about that. Despite my intense desire for a trail run, we opted for the hotel instead. We checked in, got showered, settled, had a bottle of wine and then off to meet up with the other RMTC'ers for more food and fun at McStiffs. It was the beginning to a fun weekend!

Note: as awesome as I am at taking pictures on the bike & run, I really slacked at the social photos. (ie, where is the pict of McStiffs?) Will get better at that... or maybe just *borrow* some off of Facebook?

TOUGH day

2011-03-22T16:05:00.000-07:00

Today was a rough day. Not necessarily because the workout was hard. Well, it wasn't easy, but I have had worse. But mentally and physically it was HARD.

It actually started yesterday with me whinging to my coach that, "could I just have a rest day and do my run on Wednesday". To which he said I could have my rest day on Wednesday, but he really wanted me to run and swim tomorrow (which is today). OUCH! I wasn't sure I even had it in me to run (tired legs), and he wanted me to swim and run. But, I sucked it up. I felt like I pleaded my case, but at the end of the day, I hired him for a reason, so I should listen to what he says. So I did.

The swim was actually pretty nice. I had a good workout that worked my endurance without taxing my legs too much. Then I hopped in the hot tub and did some stretching.

In the afternoon, I set out for my run. From the beginning I knew it would be hard. I literally ran out of the house, down the street, turned around, ran back in the house, grabbed my phone and told Ross, "I better take this in case you have to come get me", and off I went. And here is where everything that could go wrong did.

Nutrition. Lately, I have been experimenting with different foods on the run. So today it was peanut butter on tortillas cut up into pieces. I had one bite right as I was heading out the door, just for a taste. What a mistake. 10 minutes in I was nauseous... and I stayed that way for the next 15 miles. When I took in water, it only made me want to yak more. Great.

Wind. It was horrible, in your face, whipping around you type of wind that is relenting. Gotta love Springtime in Colorado.

Tired. Just plain old legs-not-feeling-so-snappy. On top of that, my heart rate was pretty elevated at a slow pace and I felt like I am working too hard to be going this slow.

But, here's the kicker. I got her done. That's what I needed to do. I suffered through. Not every day is going to be peaches and roses. Today certainly wasn't. I was spent, tired and pretty miserable for a good part of 2.5 hours. It stunk. BUT, as a good friend told me last year --

"It's those bleep-bleep, long training days that pay dividends on race day. "

And I don't doubt it is true. I had plenty of those long training days and my results come race day were exactly what I wanted them to be.

So here are things to remember in the middle of a hard training day if you start to doubt yourself/your fitness/your training/your ability to complete your race (I've doubted them all):
- You (hopefully) will not be experimenting with anything new on race day.
- Use this experience so in the future, you can say to yourself "I've run x miles on more tired legs than this, I can do this."
- You will have adrenaline on your side on raceday.
- You (may) have altitude (or lack of) on your side.
- Whatever adverse conditions you are experiencing, remember they only make you stronger.
- You will not be swimming/biking/running/whatever on a tired body on raceday (like you most likely are in training). You will have tapered. You will be rested. You will be strong.

Here's to one TOUGH training day in the books. Looking forward to a glass (or bottle) of wine tonight and a well-deserved rest day tomorrow.

Back in the tri life again...

2011-03-06T09:34:00.000-08:00

Something weird happens in winter. The days get shorter. The workouts change... and sometimes cease to exist. A lot of people disappear. Taken to the inside by the weather, family, holidays, etc. As the new year kicks off, some people start coming out of the woodwork and by March, well, by golly, it seems like everyone is raring to go.

So, with the start of March, comes the Rocky Mountain Tri Club kickoff. Ross and I joined the RMTC when we first started triathlon. 2 years ago this week, in fact. It has served as an endless resource for information, discounts, support, coaches, advice, workouts and training partners. Oh, yes, and friends. Over the years (all 2 of them), we have gained so much from the club and made relationships that are priceless (can you say IMMOO crew?).


Joey & Kelly & me-- we can't wait for Moab!

Matt & Ross catch up

Michelle & Molly modeling the new RMTC shirts

Elizabeth is still not used to my incessant picture taking

With Spring right around the corner, it seems like everyone is up for working out and I am excited for my "new" schedule. After training primarily by myself (or with Ross) for... years, I am excited about the fact that I will now be doing some of my workouts with others.

Among other things, my new schedule includes:
Mondays-- hills with Tawna! Any other takers on hill repeats in the A-town???

She will keep me in check. (We may be dressed a little differently come Monday.)

Tuesdays-- HRCA Tri-masters.

I tell you, if there is one thing that gets you out of the bed at 4:40
in the morning, it is meeting these fools in the water.

Thursdays-- Distance with my tri-nutty buddies

The comedic value of these friends will make the time go faster. Or so I am hoping.

Sundays-- Runners Roost runs (from the Aurora store).

(

Getting ready to run on a Sunday morning with our fearless leader, Keith, making announcements ahead of time.

On top of that, the kids have expressed wanting to do yoga with us. They last about 5 minutes, but it is still fun to include them.


H & L practicing their tree pose

So, as the winter goes away and training picks up, I am excited to not be going it alone. As some of you know, after IMMOO, I lost my training partner. Yes, Ross has retired from IM training until... further notice. Rest assured, he is still partaking in a number of activities-- bowling, beer-making, biking, to name a few. I still have his devoted love and support, although I don't have him to suffer through with me on the long days. For that, I am now depending on you all. :)

Wind, rain and some CRAZY terrain...

2011-02-22T12:17:00.000-08:00

Oh, and crazy friends, too. See this group?

Birds of a feather...

Yes, who would think that 9 people would be this excited to run 34 miles over rough terrain in the rain and wind (did I mention is was only in the 40s?).

The day started off like this:

Rainy, cold, blah. It didn't look good for the day, as rain showers were predicted all day (mixed in with snow that never came). We all took turns ducking in and out of cars, keeping warm and getting ready for the day.

As the time to run got closer, we all piled out, snapped a few picts at the start line.

Getting ready to run

The fashionistas in the group-- Keith matching his trail shoes to his compression socks, Jane matching her pink trail shoes to her kinesio tape.

And then off we went:

Now, it may not seem that bad, but see that hill/mountain/mesa (not sure what to call it) directly ahead? Well, we were about to run UP it. (No lie.) And while the scenery looks beautiful, keep in mind it was raining and we were running through this.

What I guess I am getting at, is that even though the picts look awesome, it felt more like this.

Actual picture of starting the first climb

So off I went, actually happy as can be. While I hadn't prepared for the terrain or the conditions, I was sure my body could take 34 miles of whatever Moab wanted to throw at me-- if I took my time. What was probably plaguing my mind the most was starting slow. My goal was to finish. As I wrote in my last blog, I had dnf'd my first 50k in Moab and I didn't want it to happen again, so I knew I had to concern myself with just my pace. This made me sad because I ended up pulling away from a large part of the group-- their plan was to run super-slow for 18 miles then take off. I ended up more on pace with Jane and Steve for the first 5-6 miles.

After the first aid station (5.5ish miles), I started making friends. Kemp came up next to me- he was from the RMTC and we chatted for a bit before he took off. I fell into step with a silent man (who I later learned was Fred). He was awesome to run alongside and really helped me find a steady pace. Turns out he was from Moab, so I trusted he knew what he was doing. Mile 8ish, ended up with Kemp and Fred again, together, and Steve took off.

Somewhere around 10 miles we ended up right above the start line.

View from below

View from above-- those itty bitty dots are our cars

Crazy, huh? That is the thing about these races. It would almost be a shame to race them, as I don't know if you would have the time to really look around. Everywhere there was beauty. EVERYWHERE. Even in the horrible weather we were getting, all you had to do was look around.

Once we hit halfway, I was happy. I was feeling good. There were ups, there were downs, but I was handling them. I talked to a man who had run it before and he told me, "If there is an easy half and a hard half, we just did the easy half." Kemp smiled, so I knew it was true. And he was right. There were much more challenging climbs and lots of slick rock on the second half. It was very technical with loads of climbing. And when I say climbing, it was the kind of climbing when you are hiking. EVERYONE is hiking. There was one climb where to get to the top it was so steep we were all on our hands and knees, gripping. I felt bad for anyone who didn't have trail shoes. To add to that, when you weren't on slick rock, a lot of the time you were trudging through deep sand. I wasn't sure what was worse.

I was really glad I was feeling good at this point cuz I did a little mental check of myself. I was standing there looking up, up, up and then I looked back at Kemp and just said, "I signed up for 55 miles of this in May!!!" (referring to Comrades-- my real goal). And when I said it, I couldn't stop grinning. I was so happy. I don't even know why. Kemp probably thought I was delirious or being facetious, but I wasn't. The climbing and the challenge of this run just juiced me up for my training for Comrades. I think that I knew the next time I would be racing something like this I would be much more prepared and that this is more of a checkpoint of where I was and let me get an indication of what I needed to do to be where I wanted to be in 3 months time.

Kemp and I leaving aid station 4-- about 22 miles or so.

Top of one of the mesa-type things out there. You can't tell, but the wind was about to blow me over.

Running over miles of slick rock. Hard and Ow! Those little dots are people.

Somewhere just before aid station 5 (29 miles), Kemp and I split up. By then, it was just time to get her done. It was one last climb, 1 mile of flat and 4 miles of descentish. So off I went. I wish that I could say that it was "easy", but I had blisters and my feet hurt, so really going down hurt more than going up. Who ever thought I would think that? Maybe it is a good thing Comrades is an up year this year. :)

Only pict I took from the last 5 miles. It was sooo nice to be off the rock.

And finally-- THE FINISH! It actually kind of snuck up on you, but that is ok cuz I was just glad I was there.

It was great to see Shawn, Andrea and Steve there. I quickly changed and then got to see the rest of the crew finish!

We finished!

Afterwards, it was back to the condos for showers, relaxation and some yummy, yummy grub (courtesy of Heidi-- THANK YOU!)

Jewels, Nancy and I enjoying our meals-- don't they look delicious?

Happy to be done!

Overall, the weekend was a huge success for everyone! There were lotsa newbies to Moab and a lot of fun had by all. I was really happy that with all of the adverse weather conditions and just tough terrain conditions that no one got really negative and everyone had a successful race for themselves-- myself included. It was a challenging course, but beautiful none-the-less and running in harsh conditions can only prepare you to run stronger in the future. It showed me where I was and where I want to be in the future. Such a good time!

My first 50k... AGAIN.

2011-02-17T14:21:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I am off to Moab. Oh, Moab, wonderful Moab. It is just such a gorgeous place.

Us running through Hunter Canyon

I have only been there once, and, ironically (or maybe not) it is with the same crew as I went before--give or take a few poor souls.

Group shot before the race- aren't we cute?

Anyways, if you are so interested in how that trip went, you can read about it here.

The long and short of it is that I went out to do my FIRST 50k, but didn't quite make it. That's right. It was my first "real" trail run and over some really crazy terrain. I hadn't trained for that terrain and did not really know what I was doing nutritional-wise, heart rate, etc. and had a horrible day. (Well, as horrible as can be in such a BEAUTIFUL place. And I am not being sarcastic about that.)

Who could have a truly horrible day when you get to run and see views like this for 5 hours straight?

While the race director put me as an official finisher for the 24-miler, for all intents and purposes, I DNF'd the 50k. Or at least that is how I viewed it.

I was ready to go back the following year (Nov 2010) prepared to redeem myself by rocking the course, but alas the race director decided not to put it on, and another awesome run bites the dust. So, I jumped on the bandwagon and signed up for the Moab RedHot 55k, that is this Saturday.

When I registered, I figured that it would be a good build-up for Comrades and that I would be more than prepared by the time race day came. BUT, somewhere along the way, I started focusing on Miami- a flat and fast course- and I neglected to train for Moab. I guess I "thought" I would have some time after Miami, but really with recovery taking a week and a half and then... all of a sudden I am packing fro Moab. Seriously.

So, reflecting back on what happened in my last Moab trail run, I am ready to suffer. My nutrition is in a better place but my legs and my muscles... I am not so sure about. I did some incline work on the treadmill this past week and I felt like I was dying, even though my heart rate did not reflect it (bad sign). That in mind, I am scared. Scared scared scared that the same thing is going to happen as last time. This trail running thing is hard and what I learned is that you can't underestimate that.

WHOOLAH! And there is my revelation. Two things (a) "what I learned" and (b) "you can't underestimate".

While I haven't been training for Moab-like conditions, over the past 15 months I have been learned a lot about myself, negative-splitting, my nutrition, my running, my heart rate, everything. Even though I haven't been training for these exact conditions, I do have a few tools in my pocket that I can call upon to really help me get through the day in a much better way than last time (and this time finish it).

And as far as not underestimating... I need to go out slow, steady, with a focus on my heart rate. I need to use the tools I have been working on to provide me with the best race possible.

So, here goes. Moab try #2. My goals have shifted since I signed up... and that is ok. My focus is now on finishing the race. AND I plan on making it a wonderful run. I look at it as the real kick-off to my Comrades training as it will be an ultra-distance run with LOADS of climbing. I am excited to be back running in a very gorgeous place with a bunch of my friends. What else can better get me in the mood?

Ahhh.... Miami!

2011-02-03T09:41:00.000-08:00

How can you not think of this city with fond feelings as we all (well, mostly all) sit in sub-zero weather? I certainly wish I was back there right now, BRRRRRRR!

Anyways, I arrived on Friday to sunshine and palm trees. After quick hugs, it was off to check in to our hotel (off of Oceanside Drive!). As we checked in, we asked about late checkout on Sunday and I said maybe 3:00. Heather was puzzled why I would think that we would need it that late... then I realized the race started at 6 a.m. 6 a.m.!!!! Oh my goodness, I LOVED that fact. The earlier the better. It seems all I do is get nervous on race morning, so the less time to do that, the better.

Our hotel was walking distance to the expo, so off we went to check in for the race.

The expo was... well, it was an expo. Lots of stuff. Being Jen and Heather's first marathons we did a bit of shopping and ended up with some new gear. For me, it was just a Bondi band. Pink, of course. We all got them to match.

After the expo, we relaxed with a nice meal on Lincoln Drive and then hit the local Walgreens on our way back.

Despite the excellent selection of hats, sunglasses, cover-ups and alike, we ended up with just a couple bottles of wine and a movie and headed back to the hotel. By this time it was after 9 o'clock and we were ready to settle in.

Saturday was all about rest, relaxation, and a nice little run (mad I forgot my camera-- gorgeous!). We ate in outside cafes, drank (a little) in outside bars and just laid low. Jen and Heather's hubbies showed up just in time for dinner where we observed some of the nightlife just starting to kick off. Oh, South Beach...

Sunday came way too early. We were up and ready to go by 4 a.m. (ugh)

Pre-race with our matching pink Bondi bands.

We walked up to the convention center, where we were catching the shuttle to the start/finish. This was a classic moment for me. As we were walking, everyone was still clubbing. It was awesome. Us in our running clothes and all the South Beach hotties with their pleather mini skirts and fishnets. Oh, it was awesome. I tried to take a picture, but it didn't turn out. Sadness.

Got to the start and we decided to separate. I needed to get a good warm-up run in and the others just wanted to chill. The beginning was a little bit of chaos, but mostly just because there was lots of people. There was 18,000+ all starting together. Yikes. So, off I went on my warm-up run AWAY from all the people and I ended up by the water by myself in the dark. It was perfect for my mental to just be away.

Then I returned and hopped back in my corral. There were nerves and mostly I just wanted the race to start. I knew once the gun went off, I'd be fine. Or at least I hoped I would. I was very anxious to see what the day would bring me.

The gun went off and so did I. The first half of the race is island hopping, so we started up and over a bridge. It was dark, but we got to see all the huge cruiseliners lit up. The sun came up and we passed Star Island. I looked over at P. Diddy's place (or at least I like to think I did) and ran on by. My first mile was pretty slow (it was also the biggest "hill" on the course) and after that, I settled into a pretty steady pace.

View from top of the first bridge by day

Somewhere around five miles, I decided that if I continued on with this pace, I would have 6 miles of real pushing in me at the end. So, I mentally broke my run up into two 10-mile runs and one 6-mile run. The first 10, very easy. The second 10, somewhat harder. The last 6 miles would be an all out effort.

Everything seemed to be going well for most of the race. I was ahead of my desired pace at the beginning, which I liked. The first aid station wasn't until around 2.5-3 miles, but after that, the aid stations were placed about every 3/4 mile-- which was really nice. There were plenty of opportunities to grab whatever I needed. Mostly I grabbed Gatorade, since I was carrying a small hand bottle of water. Around mile 3 I discovered that my salt tablets had disinigrated in my pocket-- and that I was really sweaty. The humidity was high since we were right on the water and I looked forward to the second half of the race that would be away from the water.

After running around an island or two, we headed back toward downtown. When we got there, there was plenty of excitement and cheering. We went through a stretch that was lined with people cheering and cheering-- very Tour de France-ish. They even had ING dancers in full on orange bodysuits dancing and slapping hands. Fun stuff.

We then split from the half-marathoners and off we went, the lone marathoners. The second half was very different from the first. The first half was beach, water, exposed and humid. The second half, the sun had come out, so the temperature had risen, BUT it was much more residential and shaded, so that was a nice pay off for the less scenic route. I continued on with my game plan and just ran.

Somewhere around 18-20 miles my legs really started to hurt. Really hurt. I was pushing harder, but going slower. I wasn't sure if it was muscle fatigue setting in or my legs were starting to cramp due to lack of salt. Either way, it hurt. By mile 20, I could do the math. If I kept my pace under 9-minute miles, I would reach my goal (a sub 3:40 marathon). If I cramped, I was going to be SOL. Luckily, at mile 21 I asked for some salt and WHOOLA! the med people handed me a tablet, I asked for three. Took them and kept going. 8:26. 8:31. 8:11. Just keep her below 9. The mile 24 aid station came up and I got more salt. Yay! Now, I was SURE I could make it to the end without cramping. With just 2 miles to go, I reasoned that the sooner I finished, the sooner the pain would be over. So off I went...

At the end of mile 25 there is another bridge. On the website it describes it as this: you'll go over a drawbridge that goes almost unnoticed because it is small and as you go up it you'll begin to hear the cheers and the music of the finish line. Lies. All lies. I wouldn't call it small, it certainly didn't go "unnoticed" by me (and friends) and it felt very, very cruel at the time. Not to mention, I believe it was the longest .2 miles I have ever run after that regardless of the cheering. BUT, then it was DONE!!! The clock read 3:36:09!!! (Later found out my real time was 3:34:44, which qualifies me for BOSTON!)

I was so happy to cross the finish line. I will say I was a little woozy and it took me a minute or two to recoup. Once I did, I realized my feet hurt and my shoes were bloody. During the race I had blistered heavily. I guess my quads hurt so much that I didn't notice my feet. This would mark my first trip to the medical tent. Oh well, small price to pay for a good race.

Overall, it was an awesome race for me! I pr'd by 25 minutes and dropped my marathon time from last year by 33 minutes. I felt good (for the most part) until the very end and even that was a test to myself to see what I would do, and I succeeded. I had a great time with my friends and had awesome support from family and friends along the way. Thanks to everyone that helped make this happen!

Me, Heather and Jen after the marathon.

So proud of those girls both kicking butt in their first marathon!

In lieu of an ice bath, I chose the ocean. The perks of racing in Florida!

You reap what you sow...

2011-02-01T10:06:00.000-08:00

Not to brag, but I have the best parents ever. Seriously. They are supportive, kind and have provided me with the proper tools in life for me to be able to succeed at what I desire. They have prepared me beyond belief for the things I have faced and continue to face. And when I reflect back on things, accomplishments in my life, they are often what comes to mind. While I have a constant support system of friends and family (parents included), they are the foundation.

So when I was reflecting last week on my upcoming race, I really wanted to thank my parents for getting me there. While I had wanted to physically write a letter, it ended up being an email. And here is where I am going to share something personal with you - our correspondence.

I have been meaning to write you all week, but it has been kind of hectic around here. But, I just wanted you to know that I am going to Miami tomorrow to meet some girlfriends and run a marathon. I have been training really hard and I am hoping to qualify for Boston. There is a chance that I will make my time goals and a greater chance that I won't, but I am still going to try. If I do qualify (and if am able to go next year- 2012), I would really like it if you were there. You set a great example for me when I was young by running and, because of that, I started running. I never forget that when I am training for things. On top of that, you and mom instilled in me the importance of setting goals and striving for them and that to me is what Boston is about. I love you and hope you will consider coming to Boston with me if/when I ever make it. ~ Randi

To which I received a perfect response crafted by my dad:

My dearest Randi,
Of course, we would love to go to Boston with you.
Again, thank you for the very kind comments about our parental influence; I'm sure Hunt and Linc will say the same things to you in a few years.
Good luck in Miami this weekend. Will the marathon have a tracking website?
Love Dad

It is amazing to me how our parental influence can affect us in more ways than we realize until we have time to reflect on it. As a child, my father ran in races which exposed me to the sport. I watched him train for 5ks, 10ks, a half marathon and even a marathon in high school. While this gave me a great foundation on both the sport and goal-setting, I would not be where I am today without my parents' guidance. They provided me with the right tools and examples-- mentally and emotionally-- to set, strive for and accomplish my goals.

As parents, we need to realize that what we introduce our children to today and the values we instill in them can make a lifetime of difference. It did in me... as I think it does in all of us.

Like I said, I have the best parents and here's hoping that Hunter and Lincoln say the same thing in years to come.

Miami HERE I COME!

2011-01-26T08:31:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I will be running the Miami Marathon. I need a qualifying marathon for Comrades (and a girl getaway), so... Miami it is!

Now this marathon will be different from the others I have run. In the past, I ran a marathon just to get to the finish line. This time, I am running for time; the faster I finish = the better the seed at Comrades.

Well, considering that Denver currently looks like this
And Miami currently looks like this
It has been a little difficult to train, but I did my best.

So, step #1-- Do some runs inside. (Which I have been avoiding.)
Regardless of the perception, I actually DO NOT like running on the treadmill, so this has been a tad bit hard. To make it more Miami-like (ie, hot) I haven't been using my fan- not a huge a sacrifice, but one none-the-less.

Step #2-- Test Run.
We all know the cardinal rule: Nothing new on race day. And...I have been doing my research and have invested in a few things that I am *hoping* may aid my speed. But considering the awesome weather and conditions of my self-supported runs, I haven't had a chance to use them. So, while I am no girl scout, but I do like to be prepared, so here I am readying myself for my last long run with all my new gear.

(Pictured here: new arm coolers, smaller hand bottle and super-light waist pack. All purchased from my favorite running store, Runners Roost.)

Step #3-- The Mental Thing.

I have come to grips with the fact that I am a headcase. Or at least when it comes to running-- ok, or maybe always in life. But for me, 'thinking through' every aspect helps me feel prepared, so when race day comes I can simply execute. {I like to think as little as possible on race day.} Many times I think on my own, but I also have a great support system (Ross, Charley, Andrea, Jane, Sonja, to name a few) that have helped me think out loud through some of the race day aspects I am going to encounter. Will I go out with a pacer? Will I bring a water bottle? How fast do I want to go out? So that has been a great help.
Reconning the course. Nope, I don't really plan on doing it while I am down there, but being able to do it online was awesome! I now know (weeks, not the day before the race) what to expect. For some it doesn't help, but for me, it does. Check her out.

While I wish I could go as fast as this video does, I realize that would be impossible-- I would end up with an 8-minute-marathon.

So, here I am. 3 days out from leaving- 5 from running. Ready to go! I have been talking with my girly-girl friends and we are all uber-excited for it to come! We've got a hotel on the beach. We'll all be running, expecting good times. Heather will be running her FIRST marathon on her THIRTY-FIRST BIRTHDAY! (as if us all being together wouldn't be enough reason to celebrate)

IS IT FRIDAY YET?

Cheyenne Mountain 25/50K

2011-01-16T10:43:00.000-08:00

Hey people, I want you to be the first to know about a new and exciting race coming to the Colorado Springs area this Spring. (Yes, just announced last week, so you truly are some of the first to be 'in the know'.)
Am I doing this? Heck, yea!

This will be the inaugural year for the race and it looks like by far the best one around!

Too early? I say, no! We've had rocking weather around here for the winter, so why not challenge yourself with a little distance race to help warm you up for the season? Having my big (55 mile) race the end of May, I have been looking for races to help me build up to it and this will be perfect. I was looking around and almost signed up for a local 50k and am so glad I didn't.

Here's why:
- a new, different and exciting trail to run
- I love Saturday races (which this one is)
- 2 25k-loops (not 4 12k-loops)
- Affordable!!!
- a freakin' hysterical announcer (expect a lot of "Boo-yah"s)
- May is just too busy for me. And a tad too late in the season (did I just say that?).
- A good-looking race shirt (yes, I am hoping to help with the design)

Not to mention, the race director promises well-stocked, awesome aid stations, volunteers will be well taken care of, pre and post race food will make everyone happy-and most important the trail will be fun, challenging, and rewarding! MORE INFORMATION HERE.

So, have I won you over yet? Join me on April 23rd-- you won't regret it!

p.s. If you want to pre-run the race course (a 25k loop), there is a group doing that on January 30th. Send an email to Andrea @ Epic Endurance and she can hook you up with the group. (I'll be in Miami.)

What have I gotten myself into???

2010-12-29T21:19:00.000-08:00

Now that the holidays are over, I have had time to settle down and focus a little more on what the new year will bring me– in particular, Comrades Marathon, my *big* race of the year!

I was first drawn to Comrades after running my first 50-miler last Spring. I had heard of it, and now that I had completed a similar distance, I wanted to do it. A top ultra-marathon located in South Africa. 56 miles. Coast to mountains. Uphill. A "must-do". Another bucket-list item.

So when I was looking for a new challenge after Ironman, Comrades is what I chose. The timing seemed to be perfect for a few reasons: (a) I had a running buddy to do it with me- Becky! (b) my mom volunteered/agreed to watch the kids while Ross and I traveled to South Africa and (c) let's face it, I don't think that my family was ready to support me through another Ironman so soon. :)

So, here I sit, 5 months out and time to really buckle down and start my research on exactly what I got myself into. I know it is going to be hard, but my other 50-miler was hard. Ironman was hard. I can do this, right?

Hmmm... things aren't looking so good when I get more into my research.
Here are a few things I find right away:
- Articles pop-up with titles like: "The Endless Run"
- Another subtitled: Fifty-five brutal miles. Five torturous climbs. A ruthless clock.
- More: Some races are humbling, this one stripped me bare.
- And yet more: The Alan Paton scenery is spectacular, but an ultra crushes your appreciation for aesthetics. It turns you inward, where a nagging voice says, "Put your head down. Focus. Get through this mile...then the next one."
- Adjectives I see over and over: hard, degrating, uphill, mountainous, relentless, fatigued, dreaded, infamous climbs, punishing descent, need I go on?

And these articles aren't written by average runners, like myself. No, they are written by seasoned ultra-runners-- one even by a Boston marathon winner. Great.

So, here I am sitting scared. Wondering what have I gotten myself into?
And I come across the Comrades ideology:
This spirit is not to be found among the champions, but among the many hundreds of ordinary people who run not to win, but just to complete, in the allotted time, one of the worlds toughest challenges.

And I ask myself again: What have I gotten myself into?
And this time, the answer is different.

- Competing in "the world's greatest race". As one writer put it, "I mean, it's 55 miles long-- the type of race that usually lures about, oh, 71 runners. Comrades has the magnetism to draw 12,000." (This year it will be 18,000.)

- A chance to honor the fallen comrades of my country, as well as the world.

- A race steeped in tradition and culture-- from the Zulu mining songs and rooster crow at the beginning to the symbolic medals to the dramatic course closure 12 hours later by the executioner.

- The opportunity to run alongside runners of all nationalities, drawn together for one common goal.

- A race a whole country stands behind (Can you say 12 hours of live. National. Television.)

- Unbelievable scenery as you run from the coast to the Drakensburg mountains.

- Cowies, Fields, Bothas, Inchanga and Polly Shorts.

- The greatest challenge of my life. I can do it.

So in exactly 5 months from today, I (again) will be facing one of the toughest, mind-boggling, body-pushing days of my life. Ready to enjoy every moment of it. Pain. Grit. And glory.

For more info, or if you just want to read some cool articles on Comrades:
The Famous Comrades Marathon
The Endless Run
Runner's World Archive on Comrades
Lots of Info on Comrades (logistics)

You'll only ever have ONE first _________

2010-12-20T14:23:00.000-08:00

Since Ironman, I have realized a few things and here is one that I find myself sharing with friends repeatedly, so I thought it my be best to share it here, too, since I think it is good advice/insight, and would like to share it with whomever will listen.

If you are a friend, and I have already told you this, sorry. See ya next post.

I ran my first marathon 9 years ago. I did what I knew to do (which wasn't much). I trained what I could. And I got through it. I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it either. Luckily, I had some circumstances that had me sign up for another one-- which is where I got hooked.

A few years ago when I was living in Green Bay, my friend Marcie trained for her first marathon. She and I ran with a group of people and Marcie trained a different way. She got advice and support from us all. She learned what she needed to. Having a bunch of marathon-junkies around, she knew what to expect. Running a hometown race (it was the GB marathon she did), she had support from friends, family, running-buddies, etc. And it was just an AWESOME experience for her. I was SO HAPPY for her, and at the same time, sad I hadn't known to do the same for myself.

Going into Ironman, I knew this could possibly be a one-and-done deal. Ironman training takes a lot of time, dedication, money, energy. And not just from the athlete, but from their supporters as well. I thought that this might very well be the only opportunity to do an Ironman and how sad it would be if it were like my first marathon-- just getting through it. Right away, I knew I didn't want any regrets. The idea that I would only have "ONE FIRST" (possibly only) Ironman, and I wanted to treat it that way.

So this past year, I made a big deal of my Ironman. That isn't like me. Rarely do I solicit support or even mention what I am doing to most people. But I knew if I wanted to succeed in my goal of reaping the most of my experience, I would have to change, and I am so thankful I did. So here are a few things we did:

We hired a coach (priceless), so that we would have a source of knowledge to tap.
We joined a tri club (that we LOVE) and another source of knowledge and friends.
We reached out to others we knew doing the race-- made some AWESOME companions along the way. That we then shared pre-race, race and post-race memories with!
I had my husband to train with-- mentally and physically. Do not underestimate the value of training partners.
We invited family to races- believe it or not, I had never done this.
I started this blog to help get my family more involved in what we were doing-- I knew I needed their support.
I learned to love every bit of training-- especially the hard days-- for I knew they would prepare me.
I shared what I was doing with everyone I knew (who was interested), so that they, too, could journey through us.

So, that is what we did. And it worked. I enjoyed the day from start to finish. Sleep-deprived, food-deprived, energy deprived and I still smiled from ear to ear for 17 hours straight.

My main point is not to give you a list of things to do to prepare you for your first Ironman. That would be a much longer, lengthier post that I don't think I am even qualified to write.
My point is this: For any goal you have, to really wrap your mind and your training around the experience as a whole. To not just train for it solo, but to bring others in. Be it a 5k, half, tri, whatever it is that is a challenge and/or a goal for you. To embrace it. To love it. To not play it down because if it really is important to you, then it should be important to those around you as well. When you reach out, you will realize how much people want to support you. I am continually grateful to my friend Sonja who constantly invites us (her friends) along on her journeys. We can't run 100 miles, but we can run 6 (over and over again) or bike alongside her during training. It is a joy to support her in her endeavors.

YOU WILL ONLY EVER HAVE ONE FIRST ______, so make it great. Make it an experience you want to repeat.

My first "race" in 7 years

2010-12-07T05:38:00.000-08:00

Sounds weird, but even though I have been participating in races and triathlons the last 8 years, yesterday was the first time I truly raced in a long, long time. I went out with the intent of running as fast as I could, pushing my body as far as I could and leaving it all out there. As much as I have wanted to do this over the past year+, I think there was something mentally holding me back... and I know what it is: the fear of failure. And it stems from my past.

Shortly after I got into endurance running, I was training for a spring marathon-- this is when we lived in Milwaukee, pre-kids. I trained a lot in the Petite Center (indoor arena) and I was putting up some mad, crazy, fast numbers (for me). It got my hopes up (high) for my upcoming marathon. So when said marathon came along, I went out quick, strong and way, way too fast. I hadn't taken into account that my training in an indoor arena would not equate to running a race in the wind, with hills, etc. and I bonked. Hard. I hated the race. Had the worst second half (probably to date) and never wanted to do that again. What I disliked more than the race was the feeling I felt of failure. I hadn't met my time goal I set out for myself.

Since, I have run numerous races and triathlons, but all with the intent on "finishing". I started choosing my goals not by how fast I could complete something, but just getting it done. While this is a worthy goal, I think I have decided it is time to push myself a little harder.

So that was what the Pueblo Half Marathon was about. I have been training my endurance for the last year and lately have been working on speed as well. I wanted to put the two together and see how I could pull it off. And I did.

The half itself was a beautiful run. You run two laps around the zoo (2 miles), then head out on a trail along the river. It was a rolling course, not bad at all. A little more downhill on the way out and uphill on the way back.

As for how I raced, normally I settle into what I know I can comfortably hold and then try to pick it up at the end. Today, I settled into what I thought was my limit, with the intent of pushing myself even harder at the end. So, with that in mind, I went. I went and went and went. The miles ticked by and I just tried to keep pushing myself, while also being smart about it.

Along the route, you hit mile 8, circle around a dam and head back to the start. It was about there I tried to pick it up a little more. I can do 5 miles of this, I thought. By mile 9 I realized that the "pack" was thinning out. In fact, it was really thin. And, on top of that, there were even fewer women out there. Hmm... I may just be doing ok in this race.

Mile 9.5 a guy passed me. This was weird to me and I realized no one had passed me yet, I had been doing all the passing. While I was happy to make this realization, I noted what that guy looked like and kept going at my pace.

As the miles got to the end, I just kept pushing harder and harder. I had the women in my sites and just kept picking them off one by one. This got hard, since there were fewer women and farther apart. I got to a point where I saw no more women, so I shot for trying to pass men. This worked and I just kept feeling stronger. At the very end, I spotted the guy who passed me at 9.5 miles. He heard me coming (the breathing) and he picked it up. I didn't think I could hang with him so I hung back. About 200 m to go though, I felt the adrenaline and I kicked it to the end, passing him. We congratulated each other on a great race, I stretched and headed for a cool-down run.

OK, I'll say it: I was pretty proud of myself. For once, I put it all out there. Fear of failure, fear of bonking, fear of not being able to meet my time goals-- I overcame them all this day. I know that this won't always be the case. There will be days when I fall short, there will be races when I DO bonk, there will be times when it doesn't go so well and I need to use those as learning experiences, not deterrents to my goals.

How did I finish? 1:45:25. 5th place in my age group. 21st women overall. That is pretty good for me. Really, the stats don't mean so much to me as the fact that I know I couldn't have done any better, and that is all I can ask for myself.

The weight issue

2010-12-02T20:03:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting to write this blog for awhile, but it is a hard blog to write. Why? The issue is weight.
- Weight is a sensitive topic to write about.
- Weight is also a very personal topic to write about.

In the past year, I slimmed down for Ironman. Of course I wanted to shed pounds (who doesn't), but the funny thing is I barely lost any weight. That may surprise some of you, since IM training requires A LOT of endurance and, thus, burns A LOT of calories. But, also to be able to train that hard, you intake a lot of calories and you have to develop muscle. Despite the fact that I didn't lose that much weight, here were the changes.

October 2009 - October 2010

What? How could I have not lost much weight? I think you can agree I am more toned in the picture on the right. And we have all heard that muscle weighs more than fat, well, this illustrates it.

Now, I am not posting this as a "look how much I changed" post, there is a larger point to this, so please bear with me. I, like many of my friends, have often looked to the scale to give me results. The pounds are what we count because they are concrete. A sure way to measure our "success". But "losing weight" isn't always what makes us healthier people. You can shed pounds and it may not be what is better for you in the long run. It also may not give you the results you want.

So, how could I have basically stayed the same over this past year? When you strengthen your muscles, the muscle fibers are actually woven closer together, thus creating a heavier, denser muscle. While this can make you gain weight on the scale, with your muscle fibers woven more tightly together, you are actually slimming down. If you, in addition, are at a calorie deficit, you will probably maintain your weight (as I did). If you are not at a calorie deficit, you will gain. This often discourages people and they give up-- don't let it! If I had been doing an Ironman with the intent to lose weight, I would have felt like a failure. But, if you look at my body changes, I believe it was a success!

My point: Sometimes you have to look beyond the scale to see the real success.

And folks, there's more:
Since IM, I have been still been training, although it with a stronger focus on running. While I have been keeping up on my strength training, I do want to shed some pounds (for the lightness factor) in running. This has resulted in another 6 lb. loss.
Although the pound for pound weight loss is the same, I think we can all agree the first 6 lb. 'transformation' is much more substantial. I say this, again, not as a "look at me" post, but to illustrate that sometimes when you are losing weight just to lose weight, it shows but not as much as when you are working hard to improve your overall health and fitness.

My second point: While the end result on the scale is the same, the end result in your body can be much different.

So, here I am, 12 lbs down-- do I feel any different? I feel healthier. I feel lighter when I run and exercise. On top of that, I feel stronger. While in the past I have worried about the scale, I think especially as I grow (gulp) older, I am doing it more for my health than my body image. And I think it is a good thing.

Surprising note (at least to me): By industry standards, I am still classified as overweight. Another reason not to live your life by the scale.

Where the buffaloes roam...

2010-11-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

So, I am sorry I have been a little sidetracked and not paying too much attention to this little old bloggity blog. I have been thinking about "things" to write about, but really what I want to write about are those things that get me excited, so here is the latest:

Anyways, so went on running last weekend with friends up at Lair 'o the Bear. Had a great time, even saw some elk.Which got me even more juiced than ever to run the Moab Red Hot 50k in February... till I went to register that night... and it was FULL!

Yep, that's right. FULL. No entry. Nada. Nothing. I emailed the race director and he said I was SOL (in a nice way), so I didn't beg and went to work assessing "what am I gonna do now"??? I was counting on Moab to be a good long distance training run with plenty of climbing to make it good training for Comrades. (Not to mention I would be with friends and it was within driving distance!)

So, I looked and looked. Considered Croom's again (always fun to see mom), but didn't want to do Florida twice this winter. Plus, no real climbing. And then I remembered a run I was considering for my first 50 last year, but thought it may be too hard for my first 50-- The Buffalo Run on Antelope Island.

Hmmm. A run on an island. Sounds pretty flat. Till you look at the run map.

OK, so maybe a little daunting. I emailed the race director who said "it only had about 5,000 ft climbing". (Moab has 4,860.) Sounds challenging to me. Maybe even a better fit than Moab... NO!

So... as if that wasn't enough, here's where I get to run:

Isn't that gorgeous?

Runner's World even featured it as a Rave Run!

For those of you who know me, there are a few adjectives you can use to get me to run something, those are "beautiful" and "challenging"-- so I think I am gonna LOVE this!

For anyone interested in joining me, check the race out here. Can't wait!

Vision Board

2010-10-22T19:14:00.000-07:00

At the risk of sounding like a complete dork, today I made my first vision board.

A vision board (also called a Treasure Map or a Visual Explorer or Creativity Collage) is typically a poster board on which you paste or collage images that you’ve torn out from various magazines. It’s simple.

The idea behind this is that when you surround yourself with images of who you want to become, what you want to have, where you want to live, or where you want to vacation, your life changes to match those images and those desires.

In preparing for Comrades next spring, I have found myself with a long journey and one in which I have Comrades as the ultimate goal, but other goals to hit along the way to help enhance the journey and to help me complete Comrades to the best of my ability.

Usually, I stay pretty motivated just without any visual cues. Occasionally, I will hang something up on my bulletin board to remind me of what I am shooting for. Usually a race brochure or race profile. For Ironman, I just had the mental image of me crossing the finish line to keep me going.

This goal, I decided that one image wasn't enough. So I got out my magazines, my scissors, some pictures and little rubber cement and started creating.

So, here's what I came up with:

If you didn't get it from the pictures:
To prepare for Comrades, I am running the Miami Marathon-- where I hope to pr. Additionally, I want to focus on my health: drink more water, strengthen my core, trim down, go faster, etc. I wanted to remember my friends who will be with me in Miami and Durban, Becki and Heather. Watching Heather get her BQ-- and see how close I can get to one... In February, I want to run the Moab Red Hot 50k as a distance measure, so I wanted some Moab picts. And of course, I wanted to highlight Comrades with symbols of their race and everything I can't WAIT to experience in South Africa (Durban, animals and African culture).

I hoped to capture it all and I think that I have (for me). I finished it and hung it up in my office where I will see it every day and already it has helped. I can't wait to go running in the morning. I hope this feeling stays with me and I hope the board is a constant reminder of all that I am shooting for.

Call me a dork or call me motivated. I don't care. :)

Time to give back a little....

2010-10-18T14:01:00.000-07:00

For the past year (actually longer) I have been reaping the benefits of friend's and volunteer's support. While I like to give back when I can, it is hard for me to sometimes find those opportunities that I can do with kids, family, etc.-- but not this weekend!

This weekend was the Rock'n Roll Denver 1/2 and full marathon and I had 3 friends running one of the races. (Not to mention the kids, who ran here.) It was much easier to involve the kids and Ross in the festivities since they, too, were friends with everyone. For support, we made t-shirts, signs, etc. so that the kids felt included and could do their part to cheer everyone on.

This is Noah's onesie. It says "See Daddy Run 13.1! GO DADDY!"

"The Dana, Chuck, Gaye OFFICIAL Cheer Crew!"

So, I started the day off at 5:00 a.m. waiting for Dana to pick me up.

Then it was off to get Chuck and go downtown. Once we were there, I made sure my race buddies were good to go and I was off to the first volunteer station (about 1 mile jog).

Ready to run!

Here we spent time stacking cups, filling water, etc. all while waiting for 15,000+ runners to pass on through. This was a really cool opportunity for me because I was volunteering at the Runner's Roost station (my local running store) that was partnered with my Tri Club, so I was happy to see everyone.

Sean, Elizabeth and a lotta, lotta Cytomax.

Once the runners started coming through, it was all business! I have never seen so many people in such a short amount of time (15,000 over about 45 minutes) race on through. It looked something like this.

The cool thing about the first stop is that it is over fast. When the runners were all done, we quickly cleaned up and I was outta there by 8:05. Then, I was running to mile 5 (about 3 miles away) to meet Ross and Dan (Dana's husband) and all of our kids.

Got there to find that Gaye, Chuck and Dana had already passed by. That was ok, I was glad everyone was having a good race! I could tell the men had their hands full with the kids (who wouldn't?), so I kind of anticipated I wouldn't be running too long with anyone (unless it was Gaye later when the kids went home).

At this time, Lorynne showed up and we all moved to mile 9.5-- two blocks away-- just in time to see Chuck pass.
So, then Lorynne, Braden and Noah were off to the finish line.

Shortly after Gaye came by

I got to see her and run with her a little.

She was doing awesome!

The kids did their jobs blowing horns and holding signs!

Then Dana came by and you can see how her face lit up when she saw her family and friends and it made being out there all the much more worthwhile!!!

I got to run a little with her, too.

Then, we were all off to the finish line... (a complete MADHOUSE with spectators for 15,000 people all in one place)

We got on the wrong side of the corral, but were still able to see Dana pass.

Chuck had finished, we found Dana at the family reunion meeting spot, but with 4 tired kids, we were unable to find Chuck & Company, but we got some good finish line photos of the Grotes.

I tried to text Gaye's friend, only to find I didn't save her number properly. I was bummed and waited for Lyndsey to text me, but nothing. So, I headed home with my clan to cyber stalk Gaye's finish.

Picture I pulled off the internet of Gaye finishing. That's my girl!

I was so happy to be out there supporting. I know it pales in comparison to all of the support I have received, but it was the least we could do.

I STRONGLY encourage anyone with friends, family, co-workers, etc who participate in these types of events, to spectate-- it makes all the difference in the world to a lot of them. And often, you make a difference in those you don't know as well. (In IM, one of the coolest signs I saw said, "I am a COMPLETE STRANGER and I am proud of you".)

Plus, you get to see some pretty cool and fun stuff. I'll leave you with some pictures of some fun runners. :)

Denver KIDS ROCK!!! Race Report

2010-10-16T13:58:00.000-07:00

After a year of us racing, it was time for Hunter and Lincoln to strut their stuff... and boy were they excited.

We signed them up for Kids Rock Denver, which is the kid's race associated with the Rock'n Roll Denver Marathon and Half-Marathon. For the last month the kids have been talking about it a lot. At first, they thought it was a swim, bike, run race and their little hearts were let down learning they "only" got to run. But we promised them a kid's tri next year-- to which Hunter asked, "But, mom, who will coach me?" Me, of course.

To make the kid's have an extra-special race, I made them each t-shirts that said, "Cheer for me, I am (kid's name)". I got this idea from a tri-friend who said her mom did it for her and it always lifted her spirits to have people cheering for her by name. So, here are our little athletes, showing off their shirts and smiles.

Once we heard that the "kindergarten division" was ready, they grouped the kids and had a little organized stretching.

The volunteers did a great job at keeping the kid's occupied and lining them up at the start line.

Ronald greeting the kids at the start line!

All the "kindergartner division" ready to go!

Then it was time to run.

The gun goes off-- actually, they just said "go!"

Brendan, Hunter and Lincoln run by!

The race was 1/2 mile total. They ran up the street, turned around and came back. We got some better shots of the kids coming back.

Brendan booking it back.

Run, Brenny, Run!

Determination is written all over Hunter's face.

The end is in sight for Lincoln.

Here comes TYLER!!!

And Dana and Alaina are sweeping the course!

Laney loves her fans! (Dana, too)

Once they were all done, the kids got medals and lots of nutritious goodies (sponsored by McDonalds???). We sat down in some grass, had a picnic and they played for a few awhile on this perfect "fall" day (it was in the 70's!). They LOVED the whole experience and I will say RnR puts on a pretty good kid's run.

Lincoln, Hunter, Alaina and Brendan with their medals.

Evidentally, the Denver Examiner thought our kids were pretty cute, too, and featured them in their slideshow.

Ironfan Party

2010-10-03T14:40:00.000-07:00

So, I hinted before we left that we wanted to do something for everyone who supported us over the year... so we decided to have a party.

The party was meant to help share the experience of the day with our friends here that couldn't be there, but more importantly to THANK everyone for their support. Seriously, we have an amazing support system out here and we didn't want them to think we didn't appreciate it. Additionally, it was our way of making up for not being able to always go out late, go camping, drink, etc. due to impending workouts/races/just being plain tired this past year.

Made signs for everyone coming to the party--much like the ones that we see when racing.

And a finish line...

And a recap of our year in pictures:

And a few friends:

It was a great night, just sad I didn't take more pictures-- too much time spent gabbing, drinking and catching up! Thanks to everyone who supported us this past year and for everyone who came last night. Awesome time with great friends-- you'll never know how much it has meant to us!

It was the perfect ending to our Ironman year!

Ironman Aftermath

2010-09-21T14:41:00.000-07:00

I sit here, over a week out from Ironman, still basking in the glow.

Every time I talk about it, there is a constant smile on my face. Last night I was asked what my favorite part of it was, to which I replied (very Lincoln-like) "All of it". Seriously, I had a great day.

I meant for Ironman to be a one-and-done thing. Or at best, done for the next couple of years until I could devote another year to focusing on training and the business could sustain itself again. As soon as I was finished, I was thinking "how can I make this as part of my lifestyle"... and that is the question I have been pondering.

So, I have a few things in the works and right now I just need to get them all set.

I have learned that:
(a) I don't do well without a "schedule" (yes, type A)
(b) I don't do well without a goal.

The two are soon to come!

Ironman Wisconsin: The Run

2010-09-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

Off my bike and into T2. More bags, more ballrooms, more awesome volunteers. Here's the one who helped me get dressed again.

I switched out of my biking bottoms and into running bottoms, threw on my running belt and off I went. OK, maybe not that fast, but close.

I got out to start the run and I heard cheers, so of course I had to look for my family. They were there... and there... and there. Man, do I have a great support system.
So it was out and onto the run. Now, again, I think I have a mental advantage with growing up here. I mean, I ran around campus all the time as an undergrad. So, mentally, I knew where I was going. I started the run and just tried to settle in. But... my back hurt. Bad. I ran down State Street and saw Jessie and Jason again. Yay! And then onto Dayton, the first non-spectator-lined street and had to walk. My back was tight. I stopped to stretch it. It relieved the pain, but not that much. So, it was going to be a lot of walk/running. Crap. But, oh well.

On top of the back pain, it was hot and humid and I was probably a little dehydrated from the bike. I had brought my running belt with a bottle, and I was going through a bottle/mile at the beginning. No kidding. I started mixing and found a perfect concoction of water, berry powerdrink and salt (yes, straight salt). It was sweet/salty mixture of electrolyte goodness and it worked, so I kept with it the entire way.

I had told myself this was going to make this an awesome day and I seldom back down from things I set out to do. So I continued on trying to ignore the back pain (not possible). I ran when I could, walked when I had to. And decided if I couldn't run the whole way, I would have fun doing the marathon. (This is where the camera comes in handy.)

Me in Camp Randall. Probably the first time I have been here without a brat and beer in my hand.

I thought this was appropriate since the Packers were playing while I was running.

Me and some gladiators on State Street.

Cowgirl Supporters. Yee haw!

Towards the end of the 1st lap, I saw my friend Karri had joined J squared and also my family had made it to the run course. Yay! Yay! Yay!Having family and friends along for the ride was great! That pepped me up and got me to the halfway point.

Me trying to make muscles for the camera.

So, not sure if they do this at EVERY Ironman event, but halfway you pass right by the finish line and continue onto your second lap. Some people find this demoralizing, I found it encouraging-- you mean I only have 13 to go? I just swam/biked/ran 127.5? I ROCK! And part of it is, I think I have run 13 on more tired and burnt out legs than I felt at the time-- and I had all these people to cheer me on and motivate me? I was making it!

On the way onto the 2nd lap!

Halfway also means special needs. I found some ibuprofen (there was NONE at ANY of the aid stations... believe me, I asked for it), some more pure salt and that was about all I needed. I saw the volunteers salivating over my iced animal crackers, Pringles and Rice Krispy Treats and told them they could have them, but they declined. (I wonder what the rules are about volunteers accepting aid from athletes?)

Off on lap 2. More family and friends, more fun. Lap 2 I think I saw just about everyone I knew. Joey was mad/crazy/fast and heading to the finish as I was about 1.5 miles out. Most everyone was rocking, so we just passed each other smiling and cheering one another on! Will, Brad, Jamey, Kelly, Niki, Jake, Brian-- I even saw the guy who sat in front of us on the plane (now I know him as Brendan). They all looked strong and it was encouraging. I didn't stop them, but I did happen upon a few that were willing to take some pictures.

Me and Alicia on the lakeshore path. That's my old dorm behind us.

Ran into Matt at an aid station.

Courtney and I had been plotting this picture since Friday night.

So lap 2 was more about getting it done. My back pain had eased a little bit, but was still there. I kept trying to find someone to pace with, but no one seemed to be going the same pace. This was ok b/c I have done more than enough training on my own, I just wanted a suffer-buddy. Wasn't happening. Luckily my liquid mixture was still working (supplemented by Clif Blocks) and I was feeling as good as you can be for being close to finishing an Ironman. I will say that I was having a little bit of trouble motivating myself to go much faster, although I had the energy to. I mean, I was about 6 miles from the end and I had about 5 hours to finish it in. I was pretty sure I was going to make it... (Becki, you have been with me at this point, so you know how I get) But then passed the 20 mile mark and decided that I could suffer through the next 6 miles and picked up the pace. I got to the stadium turned the corner and actually ran UP the hill (everyone else was walking) this made me feel better. Then DOWN the hill (even better). Around the stadium and THEN was the the best part. Ross came running up. He crossed over the street, gave me a kiss and told me how proud he was. :) The perks of having your husband on the course. He said "You can maybe make 13 hours!" and I told him I was going to try.

Off to do more running. About 2.5 miles to go. Came up Dayton. No more family-- they were already headed to the finish. Came around State Street and even though I wanted to just get to the end, I stopped and took a picture of the capital. I wanted to remember this.

Mile 139.6.

Took one last swig of water at the last aid station (about 1/2 mile from the end) jogged out of it, turned the corner and SPRINTED the last 3 blocks to the end. I was FILLED with energy. I passed people (probably 8-10) and some of them tried to pick up the pace, but no one was matching me. I raised my hands in the air and just ran to the finish shoot. I was done and SO, SO happy. :)

No, really? Yay!

** Thanks, Son, for the videos!

At the finish line, they give you two new best friends (volunteers) who talk to you, walk you through the end, check for indications that you are hurting, need medical attention, etc. I just jibber-jabbered with them and they quickly realized I was happy and fine. My family and friends were all around. I saw Wade and Theresa for the first time (although they had been following us all day), they let me know that Ross was a few miles out still, but they were going back to find him-- he was running a little bit ahead of another friend of theirs.

I recovered pretty quickly and hung out with family. Most had gone back to find Ross and others stayed with me to just rest. (My AWESOME parents had taken care of our bikes and gear- thanks, mom and pop.) Shortly after, we received a phone call Ross was 1.5 miles away. Side note: make sure your phone is FULLY charged for IM day, almost everyone's phone had died by this point.

Then another call (Jason panting) he was running with Ross around the capital. Then, I got to see my husband come down the finish line.

They let me in the finish shoot, since I was an an athlete, too.

Our AWESOME support crew! Thank you to everyone who made it happen. We couldn't have done it without you!

And, yes, we DID make it to the bar after.

Closing down the Echo with us: Wade & Theresa.